TL;DR
In a brutal empire inspired by ancient Rome, a slave girl and a soldier's fates intertwine, challenging the tyranny that controls their lives.
What is An Ember in the Ashes about
"An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir is set in a ruthless world inspired by ancient Rome where freedom is a distant dream. The story revolves around Laia, a slave who becomes a spy to save her brother, and Elias, a soldier yearning for freedom from the Empire's tyranny. Their paths cross at the Empire’s most prestigious military academy, setting off a series of events that could change the fate of the Empire.
An Ember in the Ashes 5 Key Takeaways
Laia's Brother Arrested
Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, prompting her to seek help from rebels to rescue him.
Laia Becomes a Spy
In exchange for the rebels' help, Laia infiltrates the Empire’s military academy as a spy.
Elias’s Inner Conflict
Elias, the academy’s top soldier, secretly despises the tyranny he’s being trained to enforce.
Laia and Elias Meet
Laia and Elias meet at the academy, realizing their destinies are intertwined.
Rise of Rebellion
Their choices and actions spark a potential rebellion against the Empire.
Top An Ember in the Ashes Quotes
- "You are an ember in the ashes, Elias Veturius. You will spark and burn, ravage and destroy. You cannot change it. You cannot stop it."
- "Life is made of so many moments that mean nothing. Then one day, a single moment comes along to define every second that comes after."
Who should read An Ember in the Ashes?
This book is perfect for fans of dystopian fantasy, readers who enjoy character-driven stories, and anyone interested in themes of rebellion and freedom against a tyrannical regime.
An Ember in the Ashes Best Reviews
- "Sabaa Tahir spins a captivating, heart-wrenching tale of love, loyalty, and liberation that will keep readers on the edge of their seats." - The Washington Post
- "An Ember in the Ashes is an emotional rollercoaster that leaves you breathless and begging for more. Tahir's world-building is extraordinary, and her characters are unforgettable." - Publishers Weekly
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An Ember in the Ashes FAQs
Is An Ember in the Ashes inappropriate?
The book contains violent action, mentions and depictions of abuse, slavery, sexism, and sexual assault, making it more suitable for mature readers.
Does Ember in the Ashes have LGBTQ characters?
Yes, there is at least one ongoing side character, Dex, whose sexuality is explored throughout the series.
Is An Ember in the Ashes spicy?
The book is incredibly violent and sometimes graphically so, including attempts at sexual violence, but it contains no explicit language or sex scenes.