I can't believe it took me so long to read this book. I raced through it and adored every second. It read like YA fantasy should.
Theodosia has been broken down by ten years of being trapped, beaten and belittled. Her mother was murdered in front of her and now most of her people are dead. Instead of Queen Theodosia Eirene Houzzara, she is Lady Thora, Ash Princess. And the Kaiser won't let her forget it. He even makes her wear a crown that crumbles to ash at events so she trails ash wherever she goes.
In theory, this book should be too familiar, too trope filled. Princess seeks to regain her lost kingdom, love triangle, elemental magic system, cruel and vapid upper classes...It's a classic in YA fantasy. But it was so superbly written with twists and fantastic characters that it just reignited my love of the genre.
Theodosia I adored especially because she isn't trained to fight: she's quite feminine and after ten years in a gilded cage it would be very unrealistic if she had those skills! Instead she uses her mind and her acting skills to deceive and trick those around her. I loved her relationship with Cress and the conflicts there.
The world is brutal and while it's not massively detailed, the author does not hold back the fact that this is a country that has been invaded and colonised.. The abuse of the Astreans and of Theodosia herself is cruel and awful. It's no wonder Theo has been so broken down with no hope left. It was wonderful to see her channel all her pain and suffering into rage instead to take back her kingdom.
I loved this book and now I am desperate for Lady Smoke to come out. This book was every YA fantasy that I've read so far...but unlike the others it hit nearly every point. While the love triangle is a little lacking for me, I am actually curious where it goes (Soren ftw!)
5 stars. Ash Princess more than earns it.
