Heir of Fire is an interesting book when you look at it as part of the overall series. It takes place exclusively in Wendlyn, across the sea from the main setting of the series. The events are mostly focused on Caelana and her transformation to Aelin. It seems like it would be isolated from the rest of the story, but I greatly enjoyed this one and it feels right at home at this point in the saga. On my first read a few years ago, I remember having a bit of a struggle with Heir of Fire. It was slow and kind of boring, but I didn't feel any of that this time. I loved the setting, the side characters, and the journey of Aelin coming into her powers was fulfilling. There was a nice little battle that felt like a taste of what we have to look forward to (can't wait!) and I'm intrigued by what we saw of Rowan's companions... I thought they were the good guys, what are they doing with Maeve?! My main critiques here are that the initial dynamic between Rowan and Aelin felt a little icky. I understand that he was trying to push her to access her powers, but why did he have to always go back to telling her how worthless she is? Especially knowing

they're going to be mates

I didn't love that particular type of interaction. I felt that he was degrading her more than challenging her or pushing her to do better. It didn't last long and I enjoyed them together once he moved past that, but still 🤷‍♀️ The second critique is that the pacing felt a smidge off when it comes to Aelin's powers. For most of the book, she can't even light a fire but then after

her showdown with the Valg princess, she can hold all of Maeve's Island hostage with her flames

? Yes, she gained access to the full depth of her power only after

defeating the Valg

but when did she have time to learn the control? Accessing the raw power is different than learning how to control it and use it effectively, and I thought we maybe glossed over that aspect. Maybe I'm splitting hairs with this one, but again 🤷‍♀️

Overall, I really enjoyed this story. The whole Throne of Glass series is just so much fun. It's not cotton candy reading, but maybe more like wine. Easy to consume, tastes delicious, but makes you a little heady if you have too much at a time. I'm not sure how to describe that "fever dream" element that makes this feel so different but it's not just epic fantasy and it's also not just fluffy fantasy. What's the magic ingredient? I have no idea, but I love it and I can't wait to keep going with the series. Let's fly, witches!