An Inheritance of Ash and Blood

Heirs of War, Book 1

By: Jamie Edmundson

Narrated by: Aaron Smith

Length: 13 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

The one they fear is the hero they need.

Sorcery is dying out. No one misses it. Feared and despised in equal measure, Sanc is only tolerated because he’s the son of the powerful Duke of Morbaine. But Sanc is more important than he knows. When his life is threatened, he is forced to confront his true inheritance. For a new god has arrived in Dalriya. Unstoppable, Ezenachi brings only conquest and slavery. Sorcery is dying out, and now Dalriya needs a sorcerer more than ever.

An Inheritance of Ash and Blood is the first book in the epic fantasy series Heirs of War. It combines coming-of-age character journeys with rich worldbuilding, dark sorcery, political intrigue, and bloody war.

©2022, 2023 Jamie Edmundson (P)2023 Jamie Edmundson

honest review

I absolutely loved this story. I could listen to the narrator all day long! I can't wait to listen to book two.

A worthy successor to tht throne of games

In the vast realm of epic fantasy, there are tales that transport us to new worlds, and then there are those that immerse us so deeply that we become a part of their universe. "An Inheritance of Ash and Blood: Heirs of War, Book 1" by Jamie Edmundson, narrated by the incomparable Aaron Smith, is a prime example of the latter. With a narrative as rich and intricate as the tapestry of Dalriya itself, this audiobook is a masterpiece of storytelling that will leave you utterly captivated.

Jamie Edmundson, a masterful author whose work I've come to cherish over the last few years, has crafted a new epic fantasy series, "Heirs of War," set in the same enthralling world of Dalriya, but two decades after the events of "The Weapon Takers Saga." It's a world that beckons with its vividness, a realm where magic is fading and sorcery is feared and despised. This is a place where power is a currency, and the pursuit of the throne leads to a complex web of political intrigue, murder, and mayhem.

Dalriya is akin to a ticking time bomb, with nations vying for supremacy through political maneuvering, unaware of the looming threat that has descended upon them. A formidable new deity, Ezenachi, has emerged, wielding unstoppable magic and bringing only conquest, slavery, and destruction in its wake. Sorcery, once on the brink of extinction, is now the desperate hope of Dalriya, and it's in this crucible that the protagonist, Sanc, must discover his hidden powers and become the savior they so desperately need.

The world of Dalriya, with its complex geography, diverse cultures, and deeply rooted history, is reminiscent of Westeros in its political intricacies, though not as grim. Edmundson's skillful worldbuilding paints a vivid canvas that serves as the backdrop for this epic tale. Every corner of Dalriya is imbued with a sense of authenticity, making it a place where you can easily lose yourself, navigating its treacherous landscapes and unraveling its secrets.

As the story unfolds, we are introduced to Sanc, the youngest son of the Duke of Morbaine, a character whose journey is at the heart of this epic narrative. Sanc is marked by his crimson eyes, a sign of his dormant sorcerous abilities, and he's shunned by society, except for the protection granted by his powerful father. It's only when his life is threatened that he begins to grasp the true extent of his inheritance and the potential within him.

Edmundson's character development is nothing short of masterful. Each character, from the courageous Sanc to the enigmatic Rimmon, the loyal Jesper, and even the steadfast dog Rab, is meticulously crafted and utterly captivating. You'll find yourself emotionally invested in their fates, rooting for their triumphs and fearing their perils.

The audiobook's narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with murder, mayhem, magic, and the relentless brutality of war. Edmundson's storytelling prowess keeps you on the edge of your seat, with unexpected twists and turns that defy prediction. This is a tale where allegiances shift like sand in the wind, where loyalties are tested, and where the outcomes of battles are never certain.

One of the hallmarks of epic fantasy is the sweeping attention to detail, and Jamie Edmundson excels in this aspect. His world is so intricately woven that you'll find yourself unable to anticipate what comes next. The political machinations, the shifting alliances, and the relentless pursuit of power are all presented in a way that keeps you engaged and eager to uncover each layer of the narrative.

The heart of the story lies in its characters, and there are a few standout ones that deserve special mention. Sanc, as the outcast with latent magical powers, is a protagonist who undergoes a remarkable transformation. His journey from a rejected son to a potential savior is both inspiring and poignant. His relationships with his loyal sister Liesel and his steadfast friends, Jesper and Rab, add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Duke Bastien, Sanc's father, is a character who elicits complex feelings. Despite his flaws, he possesses a wisdom that sets him apart. His reluctance to embrace war and his preference for diplomatic solutions in the face of impending conflict reveal a depth of character that invites both admiration and criticism.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have characters like Salvinus, who revels in bloodshed and torture, and Inge, whose motives remain enigmatic, keeping us guessing about her true intentions. These multifaceted characters add layers of intrigue to the story, making it all the more captivating.

The audiobook's themes are as diverse as its characters. It delves into the coming-of-age journey of Sanc, the intricate politics of a world teetering on the brink of chaos, the bonds of friendship, the complexities of love, and the eternal struggle between personal desires and societal expectations. These themes are expertly woven into the narrative, providing depth and resonance to the story's unfolding events.

One of the remarkable aspects of "An Inheritance of Ash and Blood" is the seamless weaving of multiple character perspectives. The story is divided into chapters, each following one of the main characters, allowing us to gain insight into their thoughts, motivations, and experiences. This narrative structure not only adds depth to the characters but also provides a well-rounded view of the unfolding events in Dalriya.

As the plot unfolds, it traverses various kingdoms and their diverse leaders, each with their own ambitions and moral complexities. Some leaders are inherently good, while others are morally ambiguous at best. The power struggle among these leaders is depicted with staggering complexity, with alliances teetering on the edge of collapse, and the pursuit of control driving individuals to employ any means necessary, even if it means plunging the realm into war.

The depiction of war in this audiobook is nothing short of epic. The sheer horror and brutality of battle are vividly portrayed, immersing you in the sweat, blood, and chaos of the battlefield. It's a visceral experience that captures the senseless need for power and the moral compromises made in its pursuit.

But the true threat to Dalriya isn't merely the power-hungry leaders within its borders; it's a force far more sinister and otherworldly than anyone could have imagined. Ezenachi, the god-like entity, seeks to subjugate and enslave all who cross his path, casting a shadow of doom over the realm. This otherworldly threat adds an element of cosmic horror to the narrative, as the characters must grapple with forces beyond their comprehension.

Among the array of characters, there are a few that stand out as beacons of hope and resilience. Sanc, the youngest son of the Duke of Morbaine, is a character whose journey is deeply moving. Marked by his red eyes, a sign of sorcery, he faces hatred and fear from those around him. However, his discovery of his magical abilities and his subsequent quest to harness them for the greater good make him a truly compelling hero.

Liesel, Sanc's sister, embodies unwavering love and support for her brother, even in the face of societal prejudice. Jesper, Sanc's loyal friend and mentor, is a character whose wisdom and guidance play a pivotal role in Sanc's development. And then there's Rab, the loyal canine companion, whose presence adds a touch of warmth to the narrative.

The Atrabians, who impact Liesel's mindset through their kindness, are another notable element of the story. These characters serve as a catalyst for Liesel's growth and transformation, challenging her preconceptions and expanding her horizons.

The familial bonds between Sanc and his older brothers, Peyre and Esterel, are portrayed with authenticity. Despite their father's rejection of Sanc, his brothers stand by his side, offering unwavering support. The complexities of family dynamics add depth to the narrative, highlighting the enduring bonds that withstand even the harshest trials.

Themes of coming of age, political intrigue, friendships, love, war, and the struggle to balance personal desires with societal expectations permeate the audiobook. These themes are interwoven seamlessly into the narrative, offering layers of depth and complexity to the characters and their journeys.

One of the audiobook's standout features is the narration by Aaron Smith. Smith's performance is nothing short of exceptional, elevating the already brilliant storytelling to new heights. From the very first moment, Smith's voice draws you in, capturing your attention with its depth and resonance.

Smith's ability to convey a wide range of emotions is remarkable. Whether it's the fear and uncertainty of Sanc, the cunning and malevolence of certain characters, or the heartfelt moments of connection and camaraderie, Smith's narration brings every emotion to life. Each character has a distinct voice and personality, making it easy for listeners to connect with them on a profound level.

Pacing is crucial in an audiobook, and Smith's delivery is impeccable. He ensures that the narrative flows seamlessly, whether during intense action scenes or moments of quiet reflection. His skillful use of tone and inflection adds depth and nuance to the characters, making them feel alive and real.

As the story unfolds, you can feel the tension, the excitement, and the passion in Smith's narration. He captures the essence of the narrative, making it impossible to stop listening. Whether you're in the midst of a gripping battle or delving into the complexities of political intrigue, Smith's narration keeps you fully engaged.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Aaron Smith's narration is his ability to handle the complex world-building and political intricacies within the story. He navigates the intricacies of the various kingdoms, leaders, and power struggles with ease, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the rich and immersive world of Dalriya.

Furthermore, Smith's narration complements the dark sorcery, bloody war, and mayhem in the story, creating a visceral and vivid experience for the listener. His ability to convey the brutality of war and the otherworldly threat of Ezenachi is truly spine-tingling.

In addition to his skill as a narrator, Aaron Smith's performance enhances the themes explored in the audiobook, such as coming of age, politics, friendships, love, and the struggle to balance personal desires with societal expectations. His nuanced delivery brings these themes to life, making them resonate on a deep and emotional level.

Aaron Smith's narration of "An Inheritance of Ash and Blood: Heirs of War, Book 1" is a tour de force in the world of audiobooks. His exceptional talent and dedication to the craft enhance an already outstanding fantasy novel, creating a listening experience that is nothing short of captivating. If you're a fan of epic fantasy, this audiobook is a must-listen, and Aaron Smith's narration will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Bad description

The description talks about sanc coming of age while a lot of the book doesn’t even follow him it follows other characters not even mentioned.So now you got a book that says it follows one character coming to age while in reality it follows three

Great

An Inheritance of Ash and Blood: A Coming of Age Epic Fantasy (Heirs of War Book 1), my second read from author Jamie Edmundson. An enjoyable, well-written fantasy tale. I look forward to reading more from this author. I was given an Audible copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. Aaron Smith’s narration adds to the book’s enjoyment. I look forward to reading A Crucible of Fire and Steel (Heirs of War Book 2), the next book in the series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

Great story and great narration - enjoyed this one

Really liked the story and the narrator. Wish Book 2 was out so I could continue the epic journey!