In Amy Pennza's Kiss of Embers, the first female werewolf pack leader in a century faces a devastating moon sickness and rival pack threats. Her solution? The Firstborn Games, a brutal competition for an all-powerful wish. But her quest for victory is complicated by Finn and Struan, two dragon shifters who claim her as their fated mate. As she navigates treacherous challenges alongside her unexpected rivals, Rhea must choose between winning the Games and saving her pack, or surrendering to the undeniable attraction that threatens to derail her plans. With danger lurking at every turn, Rhea's fight for survival becomes a battle for her heart and the future of her people.
Review Kiss of Embers
Oh my goodness, "Kiss of Embers"! What a ride! I absolutely devoured this book, practically inhaling the pages. Amy Pennza has done it again; she's crafted another captivating story within her Dragon Lairds series, and this one might just be my favorite yet. The premise itself is intriguing – a female werewolf alpha leading her pack through a moon sickness epidemic and entering a cutthroat competition for a wish-granting elixir – talk about high stakes! And then you throw in two incredibly alluring dragon shifters who declare her their fated mate? Sign me up!
Zara, our strong and determined protagonist, is someone I immediately connected with. She's fiercely loyal to her pack and determined to overcome any obstacle, which is admirable. While some reviews mentioned her needing rescuing, I saw it more as a testament to the intense situations she faces and the undeniable chemistry she shares with Finn and Struan. It highlights the strength of their bond, how they support each other even amidst the chaos of the Firstborn Games.
Speaking of Finn and Struan, these two Highland dragon shifters are absolute swoon-worthy. Their playful banter, their unwavering devotion to Zara, and their willingness to protect her, even if it means bending the rules a little (or a lot!), are captivating. The polyamorous relationship dynamic is handled beautifully; it never feels forced or rushed, instead unfolding organically as their connection deepens. Their individual strengths and personalities complement each other perfectly, and their shared passion for Zara is palpable.
The plot itself keeps you guessing. The Firstborn Games are wonderfully imaginative, taking the characters to exotic locations and presenting challenging obstacles. The pacing is excellent; there's enough action and suspense to keep you glued to the pages, but also enough tender moments to build the emotional connection with the characters. The world-building is rich and detailed, immersing you fully in the unique world of werewolves, dragons, and ancient magic. I loved how seamlessly the author integrated the different supernatural elements, creating a cohesive and believable fantasy world.
However, I did find some aspects slightly less satisfying. Some readers mentioned the resolution regarding the pack's fate and the dragons' involvement felt slightly anticlimactic. While I enjoyed the overall resolution, I can understand why some felt a bit more depth or discussion could have improved this aspect. It's a minor point, though, in an otherwise fantastic read. The sexy scenes, as many reviewers pointed out, definitely add to the overall experience, adding spice and intensifying the emotional connection between the characters without overshadowing the plot.
Overall, "Kiss of Embers" is a thrilling and romantic read, a whirlwind of action, magic, and sizzling romance. I found myself completely invested in Zara's journey and captivated by her relationships with Finn and Struan. While minor quibbles exist, they don't detract from the overall brilliance of the story. If you enjoy paranormal romance with strong female leads, fascinating world-building, and a healthy dose of steamy romance, then you absolutely need to add this book to your TBR pile. Highly recommended!
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.71 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 282
- Publication date: 2024
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