“Ashes, Ashes” by Jessica Goeken - Book Review
Jessica Goeken’s “Ashes, Ashes” is a young adult supernatural fiction that gives off Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibes.
This supernatural young adult romance is an engrossing and fun read, with plenty of fights, tears, and humor.
Jessica Goeken’s “Ashes, Ashes” follows teenage Magi Warrior Adrienne, who protects humans from monsters. After she kills a hellhound that has been haunting college campuses, she draws the attention of Hecate, the banished goddess seeking to restore her power and return to the mortal world. When Hecate sets her sights on Liza, Adrienne’s sister, the fight turns personal for the hunter.
The author blends magic, monsters from various realms, and Greek mythology for a thrilling read. This tale explores the coming of age of young individuals, their experiences with first loves, and dealing with family issues.
Adrienne is a badass struggling with her responsibilities as a monster slayer, making decisions like adults, and having to face the consequences of her choices. Her ‘foster family’ serve as the perfect backdrop to explain her motivation, their interactions keep the story grounded and add depth to the story.
Although Hecate was a credible antagonist, a more detailed portrayal of her and her henchmen would have been great. For the most time, Goeken balances quirky humor with dark subjects rather well. The writing was clear, and the storyline is compelling, but I would have appreciated fewer side stories and a more streamlined narrative.
