I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young woman is forced to return to Egypt after being cared for in Babylon by the queen, now forced to protect the woman who holds the Pharaoh’s heart in her hands as untold dangers swirl all around them in the book Aoh by Jennifer Renson.

The Synopsis

Upon fleeing her homeland of Egypt after her village is attacked, Aoh finds herself living in an immaculate Babylonian palace under the care of the queen. For a young peasant girl, it’s a life of luxury beyond her imagination. But unforeseen circumstances cause Aoh to return to Egypt, where she finds herself living in another palace disguised as a servant. She must face many dangers if she is to protect herself and the woman who holds the pharaoh’s heart. Will Aoh survive and find love in a place where deception and loyalties rule?

The Review

This was a compelling and captivating read. The blend of YA and historical romance really elevated the story to new heights. The incredible imagery the author utilized in their writing allowed the vast deserts and grand palaces of Babylon and Egypt to come to life so beautifully on the page. The tension that built both during Aoh’s time in Babylon hiding her identity and her time serving the Pharaoh and her role as a protector was so well placed here and allowed the reader to feel the political and social problems being stoked by the royalty and those scheming behind the scenes.

The heart of this story rested in the fantastic character development, especially with the protagonist Aoh. The story felt like a full hero’s journey for her, as she went from this young woman with a bit of wonder for the world outside her own to a powerful warrior and stealthy protector as she moved through the noble houses of the elites. The bond she formed with Laggus was great to see play out, and the way the story highlighted the need to end the violence and bloodshed between people who fight because they come from different backgrounds or areas altogether was great to see unfold in the action and suspenseful moments of the narrative.

The Verdict

If you were to cross the politics of Game of Thrones with the action of 300 and the rich romance and character growth of The Mortal Instruments Series, then this will be the book for you. Author Jennifer Renson’s “Aoh” is a must-read historical fiction meets romance and YA novel, and the incredibly rich settings and deeply emotional and engaging character growth this book develops, as well as the open-ended ending, will have readers wanting more of this incredible novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta’s passion for writing began in childhood. Her writing career spanned from articles in Lost Treasure Magazine to her self-published poetry books; Delightfully Dark: A Collection of Poems and Tales, Eo: Go, walk, ride, sail, pass, travel and Uncharted. She is the author of the modern-day fairy tale novel Carousel. Presently she is a mother and wife; she enjoys spending her time with her family and friends, writing, crafting, specifically cross stitching and reveling in Victorian Era ambiances while living in New Jersey. 

Social media links:

Instagram  @jenny.renson Jennifer Renson-Chiappetta (@jenny.renson) | Instagram

Facebook Book and Poetry by Jennifer Renson Facebook

Goodreads  Aoh by Jennifer Renson | Goodreads

Purchase links:

Amazon.com:  Aoh: Renson, Jennifer: 9798397459280: Amazon.com: Books

Barnes & Noble: Aoh by Jennifer Renson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)