The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King

Unlike the first installment, which included only Oraya’s point of view, The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King is narrated by both Oraya and Raihn. What effect does this choice have on the narrative? How does this impact or build upon the series’ overarching themes?

How do the fragments of Vincent’s memories change your perception of his character over the course of the novel? Do they mitigate the crimes he committed or his treatment of Oraya? Why or why not?

Raihn’s betrayal at the end of The Serpent and the Wings of Night reminded Oraya of Vincent’s habit of placing power before all else. Raihn too worries that he will become cruel because of what he believes he must do to hold power. How do their views of power change over the book? How is Oraya and Raihn’s approach to seizing and wielding power different from Vincent’s?

The tending to injury trope is a popular trope in the fantasy romance genre. Choose one scene where Broadbent uses this trope and consider how it contributes to the characters, their relationship, and the themes of the novel.

Consider what is revealed about Nessanyn throughout the Nightborn Duology. Compare Nessanyn and Oraya as characters, then do the same for their relationships with Raihn. How do their beliefs about love differ? What does each of their fates suggest about the novel’s definition of “true” love?

The novel ends with Mische informing Raihn that she will soon be leaving the House of Night because it is not her home. Considering there are two more duologies in the series that focus on the two other houses, where might her journey lead her next? Use context clues about her character to inform your theories.

Analyze Jesmine’s character and her history with Vincent. In what ways does her experience shed light on the confusion and frustration Oraya experiences about her complicated relationship with her father?

The sequel’s tagline is “Love is a sacrifice at the altar of power.” How does this motto ring true throughout the novel?