This series is better than anything Maas or Yarros
A Kingdom of Sand and Ice
Book 2: Kingdom of Gods
Author: J.F. Johns!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶
**************************************************************************This is my honest review of the digital ARC I was given the opportunity to read. I have not been gifted or paid for my opinion or rating of this book.
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Once again I am blown away by J.F. Johns!
The Kingdom of Gods series has easily surpassed anything written by SJM and anything 4th Wing, in my opinion, and has become one of my all time favorite epic fantasies.
You need to abandon your TBR and read this series immediately!
A Kingdoms of Sand and Ice picks up where the cliffhanger from A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash leaves you reeling and quickly plunges you back into the Kingdoms. Then it is non-stop action all the way to the end of the book.
Be prepared to binge read, miss meals, put off work, and ignore reality!
All the POVs from the first book continue, and while they are going through it, so are you! Because of the excellent quality of writing and the character development, I feel connected to each and every character and completely invested in their stories. This is one of the most emotionally reactive books I have ever read.
I laughed, cheered, rolled my eyes, screamed, got angry, got scared, kicked my feet, and balled my eyes out more than a few times.
The plot twists and surprises just kept coming. As soon as you are convinced that you have it all figured out…. BAM! You are shocked and left staring at the wall. And when I say there is emotional devastation, I mean it.
Your heart will be torn out and you just might question why you are putting yourself through it all by reading the book. BUT it is worth it because despite the turmoil, trauma, and heartbreak, there is top tier banter, incredible bonds, delicious tension, and beautiful character growth.
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-Kingdom of ice/House of Snow/Wolverians
-Desert Kingdom/House of Sand/Desert Folk
-Kingdoms of Darkness/House of Shadows/Wyverians
-Kingdom of Fire/House of Flames/Drakonians
-Kingdom of Fauna/House of Wild/Fae
-Kingdom of Light/House of Sun/Phoenixians
-Kingdom of Air/House of Wings/Valkyrians
-Kingdom of Magic/House of Power/Witches & Warlocks
-banished gods
-Hades and the Underworld
-love curse
-life altering circumstances
-rising from the ashes
-female rage
-LGBTQ rep
-reluctant allies
-forced proximity with sweet surprises
-yearning, angst, and steamy romance
-court intrigue and obligations
-meddling kings and queens
-shadow companions
-mythical creatures
-varieties of race, orientation, and creed
-secrets and hidden agendas
-shocking lies and betrayal
-torture, trauma, and murder
-intense loss and heartbreak
#arcreader #BookReview #arcreader #bookrecommendations #fantasybooks
Okay, so you've heard me rave about J.F. Johns' *A Kingdom of Sand and Ice*, and how it’s completely taken over my brain, even making me question my love for SJM and Rebecca Yarros's 4th Wing. But let me dive a little deeper into why this series, *The Kingdom of Gods*, is just so phenomenal and why you absolutely need to abandon your TBR for it. First off, the world-building in A Kingdom of Sand and Ice is beyond immersive. We're talking about a rich tapestry of distinct kingdoms – from the icy realms of the Wolverians (Kingdom of Ice/House of Snow) to the scorching Desert Kingdom (House of Sand). The way J.F. Johns weaves in these diverse cultures and their unique magic systems, along with the looming threat of banished gods and the influence of Hades and the Underworld, creates a truly compelling backdrop. If you're searching for a "kingdom of fantasy" that feels fresh yet familiar, this is it. It’s not just about sand; it’s about the intricate politics and ancient powers that shape these lands. What really sets this series apart, especially when considering "banished series review" queries, is the depth given to its unique mythology. The concept of banished gods isn't just a plot device; it's a living, breathing part of the world, influencing prophecies, curses (yes, there's a compelling love curse!), and the very fate of the characters. This isn't just another fantasy saga; it’s an emotional rollercoaster where every twist feels earned. And let's talk about the characters! The original review touched on how emotionally reactive this book is, and it's because you truly become invested in their struggles. For those who love "steamy romance" and "forced proximity with sweet surprises," prepare yourselves. J.F. Johns delivers on the tension and yearning, but it's always intertwined with meaningful character growth and crucial plot developments. Plus, the LGBTQ+ representation feels organic and vital to the story, adding another layer of authenticity and heart. This isn't just a romance with fantasy elements; it's a true epic fantasy with incredibly well-developed romantic subplots and diverse characters. The plot twists are relentless and genuinely shocking. Just when you think you've got a handle on the court intrigue, the hidden agendas, or the secrets, BAM! You're left reeling. The emotional devastation is real – I've laughed, cried, screamed, kicked my feet, and yes, balled my eyes out multiple times. But through all the trauma, loss, and heartbreak, there’s always that incredible banter, loyal bonds, and the unwavering spirit of rising from the ashes. If you enjoyed the blend of magic, intricate plots, and intense emotions in books like Blood and Sand or other similar sagas, you'll find a new favorite here. Forget your "ashes of the imperium review" for a moment and give this series a chance to blow you away!






















































