Book Review: King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby
When I first picked up King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby, I was drawn in by the promise of complex family dynamics intertwined with the underbelly of crime. Cosby’s ability to weave gritty narratives has always captivated me, and I couldn’t resist diving into a story that challenged both its characters and me as a reader. This book is a masterclass in storytelling—one that left me both breathless and deeply affected.
At its heart, King of Ashes follows Roman Carruthers as he returns to his hometown after his father’s devastating car accident. Arriving back in Jefferson Run, he finds that things are far from simple. His brother, Dante, is knee-deep in a criminal world, drowning under a mountain of debt and reckless decisions. Meanwhile, his sister, Naveah, is juggling the weight of their family’s crematorium business and harboring secrets about their mother’s mysterious disappearance. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Roman grapples with his family’s dire situation while racing against time to save them from unraveling.
What struck me most about this book was the intricate web of personal struggles and external threats. Cosby’s writing flows seamlessly, maintaining a brisk pace that never feels overwhelming. I appreciated how quickly Roman’s story unfolded; we dive right into the chaos of family and crime, bringing me along for the wild ride. Navigating the criminal underworld, Roman embodies a reverse prodigal son, simultaneously seeking redemption and grappling with forgiveness from those he left behind. His character was so relatable—his determination and courage resonated deeply with me, cementing him as an engaging and inspiring protagonist.
Cosby’s knack for creating nuanced characters also shone through in his portrayal of Dante and Naveah. Dante, though infuriating at times, felt real and sympathetic, perfectly embodying the struggles many face when grappling with addiction and poor choices. Naveah, too, brought a refreshing perspective, as she navigated family loyalties and her own burdens with grace. Together, they created a rich tapestry that reflected the messy complexities of familial love.
Another highlight was the book’s pacing—each moment felt earned and significant, maintaining my total investment. I found myself completely absorbed while listening to the impeccable narration by Adam Lazarre-White, whose voice brought the characters to life and elevated the narrative’s emotional weight, making this a standout listening experience.
By the time I reached the final pages, I felt as though I’d been on an emotional rollercoaster that left me both exhilarated and heartbroken. King of Ashes is a must-read for anyone who appreciates stories about family, redemption, and the lengths we go to protect those we love. It’s a poignant reminder of how the past can haunt us, but also how courage can lead us into the light.
For anyone who enjoys a thrilling blend of crime and family drama, this book deserves a spot on your summer reading list. You’ll find yourself reflecting on its themes long after you close the cover—just as I have. Thank you, Macmillan Audio, for the opportunity to explore another incredible tale by S.A. Cosby, whose work has firmly secured its place on my auto-read list.
In short, King of Ashes crushed me in the best way possible—this is a book I won’t soon forget.
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