01 Jun Book Review: The Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer L. Armentrout

When I picked up The Crown of Gilded Bones, I was both excited and a tad apprehensive. Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Blood and Ash series had already taken me on a rollercoaster of emotions, and diving into the third installment, I wondered if it would maintain the momentum or veer off course. Given my love for character-driven narratives and well-researched plots, I was eager to see how Poppy’s journey would evolve, especially with the tantalizing hints about her lineage and destiny.

What’s it about?

Picking up immediately after the events of A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire, The Crown of Gilded Bones thrusts us back into the tumultuous world of Penellaphe “Poppy” Balfour. Fresh from a harrowing confrontation at the Temple of Nyktos, where Poppy unleashed a formidable power to protect herself and those she loves, the narrative wastes no time delving into the aftermath.

As the dust settles, Queen Eloana of Atlantia makes a staggering revelation: Poppy is not merely a descendant of deities but is, in fact, a deity herself. This proclamation sends shockwaves through the Atlantian court and beyond. The wolven, once bonded to elemental Atlantians, now find their allegiance inexplicably tied to Poppy, further cementing her newfound status.

However, not everyone welcomes this revelation. Alastir Davenwell, a trusted advisor to the crown, views Poppy’s ascension as a harbinger of doom, referencing ancient prophecies that speak of destruction. Driven by fear and conviction, Alastir orchestrates a coup, resulting in Poppy’s abduction. She is taken to the desolate mountains, where she endures torment and is shackled with bones of deities, suppressing her burgeoning powers.

During her captivity, Poppy uncovers unsettling truths. Captain Jansen, once a trusted figure from her past in Masadonia, is revealed to be a changeling and a key player in her abduction. His betrayal runs deep, having even taken the life of young Beckett to further his nefarious plans. The intent behind Poppy’s kidnapping becomes clear: to deliver her to Queen Ileana of Solis, a figure with her own dark designs.

But Poppy is not without allies. Casteel “Cas” Da’Neer, her husband and the enigmatic Prince of Atlantia, alongside his steadfast friend Kieran Contou, mounts a daring rescue. The ensuing battle is fierce, culminating in Poppy confronting Jansen and exacting retribution for his treachery. However, the confrontation leaves Poppy gravely wounded, teetering on the brink of death.

In a desperate bid to save her, Casteel performs the forbidden act of Ascension, offering his own blood to heal her. The process is fraught with uncertainty, as Ascensions are known to transform mortals into vamprys, creatures of the night. Yet, when Poppy awakens, her eyes retain their vibrant green hue, signaling that something unprecedented has occurred. She is neither fully mortal nor vampry but something entirely new, hinting at her unique heritage and potential.

As Poppy grapples with her evolving identity, she is thrust into the intricate web of Atlantian politics. Meetings with King Valyn and Queen Eloana shed light on her lineage. The revelation that she bears a striking resemblance to Malec, Queen Eloana’s first husband, suggests a direct connection, making Poppy the rightful heir to the Atlantian throne. This newfound status places her at the epicenter of looming conflicts, with the kingdom’s future hanging in the balance.

Throughout the narrative, Poppy’s primary objectives remain steadfast: to locate and reunite with her brother Ian, rescue her friend Tawny, and dismantle the oppressive regime of the Ascended and the Blood Crown. Her journey is punctuated by moments of introspection, as she contemplates the weight of destiny versus personal choice, the true nature of power, and the sacrifices required for the greater good.

What This Chick Thinks

Character Evolution

Poppy’s transformation from a sheltered Maiden to a formidable force of nature is both compelling and relatable. Her internal struggles, especially when confronting her deity status and the responsibilities it entails, resonate deeply. The dynamic between Poppy and Casteel is electric, their bond tested and solidified through trials and tribulations. Kieran’s unwavering loyalty and subtle humor provide a grounding presence, balancing the intense emotions that permeate the narrative.

World-Building and Mythology

Armentrout’s depiction of Atlantia and its surrounding territories is lush and immersive. The infusion of myths, prophecies, and ancient lineages adds depth, making the world feel lived-in and authentic. The political machinations and court intrigues are reminiscent of historical dramas, adding layers of complexity to the plot.

Pacing and Narrative Flow

The novel’s pacing is a blend of heart-pounding action sequences and introspective lulls. While some sections brim with tension and urgency, others delve into character introspection and world-building. This ebb and flow might not cater to everyone’s tastes, but for readers who appreciate a balance between action and depth, it offers a fulfilling experience.

Themes and Reflections

At its core, the book explores themes of identity, destiny, and autonomy. Poppy’s journey prompts readers to reflect on the age-old debate of nature versus nurture and the extent to which one’s lineage dictates their path. The narrative also delves into the nuances of power—its allure, its burdens, and its potential both to corrupt and to protect. Armentrout doesn’t shy away from asking difficult questions through her characters: What does it mean to rule justly? Can violence ever be truly righteous? And how far should one go to protect the people they love?

Final Thoughts

The Crown of Gilded Bones is a hefty read, both in page count and emotional weight, but it rewards readers who are fully invested in this world. It’s a novel full of revelations, fierce loyalty, and the kind of slow-burn character arcs that I eat right up. While the plot occasionally gets tangled in its own mythology, the payoff—both romantic and narrative—is worth it.

If you’re already deep into the Blood and Ash series, this one feels essential. It’s the turning point where everything gets bigger, messier, and more meaningful. I’d give it an 8.5 out of 10.

Try it if you like:

• From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout – Obviously, start at the beginning of this series if you haven’t already. The foundations laid there are crucial for everything that unfolds here—and the tension between Poppy and Cas is at its most deliciously chaotic.
• A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas – For another story that focuses on emotional healing, inner strength, and high-stakes romance, this spin-off in the ACOTAR world brings similar vibes—complex heroines, broken-but-hot love interests, and big magical confrontations.
• The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen – A story of strategy, betrayal, and enemies-turned-lovers, it shares the same political intrigue and layered world-building, with a female lead who has to grow into her power and position just like Poppy.