Title: From Ash & Darkness
Author: J.L. Sullivan
Genre: Young Adult, YA Fantasy, Fantasy
Book Blurb:
After banishing the evil djinn, Bax’s life has returned to normal--almost. His guilt-fueled nightmares won’t relent until he musters the courage to return Ifrit’s artifact and finally lay the demon to rest. But nothing in the djinn-verse is ever easy. Someone has summoned Ifrit back into the world, placing Bax at the center of the swirling dark wishes the djinn is fulfilling for his new master. As Ifrit’s attacks grow deadlier, Bax and his friends must uncover the identity of Ifrit’s new master and convince them to banish the evil spirit. But with no high-powered lunar eclipse for another one hundred and fifty years, banishment might be impossible.
My Review:
There is so much to love about From Ash and Darkness! Hands down, this is a fabulous YA book.
As a Gen Xer, I grew up on those classic teen adventure movies—The Goonies, Gremlins, The NeverEnding Story, ET—and this book swept me right back to those golden days of storytelling. It’s the kind of old-school adventure the world needs right now—just pure, thrilling fun without anything getting in the way.
Bax and his friends are the kind of characters you root for, each of them feeling real and fully developed. Bax’s mom and comic shop owner, Warren, add even more depth to the story, and don’t even get me started on Janni—I want one of my own! (Uh, just as a pet! No genie wishes for me after reading this!)
With high stakes, dark twists, and a thrilling battle against Ifrit, this book delivers everything I love in a YA adventure. I couldn’t put it down! Kudos to the author for such a great read.
The happy ending is perfect, and I have the tear-stained cheeks to prove it.
5++ stars for me! Whether you’re an older “young adult” like myself or part of the target audience looking for an exciting, well-written adventure, From Ash and Darkness is an absolute must-read.
My Rating: 5++ stars
Buy it Now:
Author Biography:
J. L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, is a dark reimagining of an ancient myth that won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with its sequel, From Ash & Darkness, out in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.He loves to connect with readers on social media or by email at contact@jlsullivan.net.
Social Media Links:
Reviewed by: Lana