Post-apocalyptic fairy tale. Do I have your attention yet? Ash Rising is set in the world of Cinderella, after her happily ever after. After a horrific genetic mutation that was supposed to help feed the world, and instead leeches the ground of its fertility and mutates the birds of the kingdom into giant predators who think humans are pretty tasty little snacks.

Ash lives in a once-grand manor, having renounced her title and opted instead for a life as a cook. Until the carriors came and she found herself the only one capable of keeping what remains of her household alive. While she has a complicated, resentful relationship with her stepmother, there are no evil stepsisters here. Ash dearly loves what family she has, and is determined to do the best for them.

Pluck Katniss Everdeen from Panem and plop her down in a fairy tale, and this is what you’d get. Dark, enduring, and brilliantly written, Ash Rising is a lovely and engaging read. Lebeque balances the gray grimness of disaster with the young spark of characters who can still, maybe, believe in the dream of a better life. Definitely highly recommended.

Contains: violence, some gore, language.

Reviewed by Michele Lee