A review by bellebookcorner
Iron & Embers by Helen Scheuerer

adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 “Drevenor welcomes you with open arms. But beware the thorns of its embrace.”
 
Helen has done it again! Another masterpiece! 
 
Set 5 years after the Legends of Thezmarr series, a new danger once again threatens the realm once more by targeting the royals. 
It felt great to return to Thezmarr, reuniting with my favorite characters—especially the hilarious duo, Kipp and Cal, who never fail to liven up the story with their antics! 
 
I’ve always admired Wren (FMC) from the previous series for her creativity and intelligence as an alchemist, a role that proved crucial in the last war. 
In this book, I get an up-close look at just how dangerous and cunning Wren can be when she wants to. 
This story is an emotional journey for Wren as she battles her grief, guilt and her need of revenge. But, she’s trying to find her true purpose again with the help of new friends and a certain lovely yet annoying Warsword!  
 
“You look like you’re going to kiss me.”
“You look like you’d enjoy it.”
 
Now, let’s talk about the romance! 
 I adore the love-hate relationship between Wren and Torj—the bantering, flirting, and longing gazes create delicious tension. 
Their chemistry is off the charts! I love seeing them slowly open up to each other and explore their newfound feelings whenever they’re together. 
 
“Go up in flames with me, Embers.”
 
The last few chapters are action-packed, keeping my eyes glued to my Kindle. 
I didn’t want to miss a single badass moment from the alchemist and the Warswords fighting side by side. 
However, I wasn’t expecting that CLIFF-HANGER to drop out of nowhere, and now I’m in misery, waiting for book two to find out what happens next! 
 
Overall, this is a promising start for this new series! 
The sizzling slow-burn romance, rich world-building, and thrilling action are perfectly balanced, making this book so addictive that putting it down is the last thing I want to do. 
I’m really looking forward to the sequel, Thorns and Fire, coming out in July 2025! 
(I hope July comes sooner...!!) 
 
I received an advanced review copy through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the author and publisher!
 
⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Death, torture, murder, kidnapping, grief, brief mention of medical trauma and medical content 
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