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Elemental Viria #2
Freedom and Fire
I was a Queen, and I would bow to no male.
After finally freeing herself from a life’s worth of manipulation and control, Aurelia experiences true independence for the first time in her life. With her newfound freedom, Aurelia chooses to spend her days exploring the connection between herself and the Prince of Fire, Alev.
With all four kingdoms expecting Aurelia’s hand in marriage, she is desperate to protect her secret. But the Kings will come to claim what is theirs, and her secret will be revealed.
Desperate for some peace before the eventual chaos, Aurelia joins Alev in celebrating the Fire Season in hopes of learning more about the realm, and her relationship with him. However, when old dreams become a new reality everything she hopes for might just unravel.
After finally freeing herself from a life’s worth of manipulation and control, Aurelia experiences true independence for the first time in her life. With her newfound freedom, Aurelia chooses to spend her days exploring the connection between herself and the Prince of Fire, Alev.
With all four kingdoms expecting Aurelia’s hand in marriage, she is desperate to protect her secret. But the Kings will come to claim what is theirs, and her secret will be revealed.
Desperate for some peace before the eventual chaos, Aurelia joins Alev in celebrating the Fire Season in hopes of learning more about the realm, and her relationship with him. However, when old dreams become a new reality everything she hopes for might just unravel.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2023
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January 2, 2024
“If I start something with you now, you’ll never eat. Because once I get the taste of you, I don’t think I’ll ever get enough.”
Aurelia has been promised her hand in marriage to all the other four kingdoms. But she has a secret no one can know. But for the first time, she has a bit of freedom to explore outside the kingdom and wants to go with the Fire Prince Alev and join him in his kingdom to celebrate the Fire Season. Soon the other kingdoms may want to claim what is owed to them. How long can we hold them off?
This book I enjoyed and it’s a very slow burn but we made it! I will say I feel like the last 5% has many plot twists and I was shocked but worst of all I feel like I have been lied to and manipulated “he was just acting” NO WHAT DO YOU MEAN? I’m gutted and still processing those words. I will throw hands! But other than that I will say I thought Aurelia would be strong in this but I found her a little weak. She cried a lot, it was a repetitive emotion that kept coming up. As she was sheltered her whole life and after what happened in book one I thought she could stand up for herself more.
Other than that I’m enjoying this series and looking forward to the next book.
If you love:
🔹Fantasy Romance
🔹Arranged Marriage
🔹Slow Burn
🔹One Bed
🔹Betrayal
🔹Good Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Kindle
Pages: 385
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Series Book 2 In The Elemental Viria Series
Tropes or Themes: Dark, Fantasy, Arranged Marriage, One Bed, Slow Burn, Forbidden, Elemental / Power System, Princess, Kingdoms, Protective MMC, Nightmares, Touch Her Or Die Vibes, Ball, Betrayal, It’s Always Been You, Sexual Content, Virgin, Praise, Blood & On Page Murder.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Aurelia has been promised her hand in marriage to all the other four kingdoms. But she has a secret no one can know. But for the first time, she has a bit of freedom to explore outside the kingdom and wants to go with the Fire Prince Alev and join him in his kingdom to celebrate the Fire Season. Soon the other kingdoms may want to claim what is owed to them. How long can we hold them off?
This book I enjoyed and it’s a very slow burn but we made it! I will say I feel like the last 5% has many plot twists and I was shocked but worst of all I feel like I have been lied to and manipulated “he was just acting” NO WHAT DO YOU MEAN? I’m gutted and still processing those words. I will throw hands! But other than that I will say I thought Aurelia would be strong in this but I found her a little weak. She cried a lot, it was a repetitive emotion that kept coming up. As she was sheltered her whole life and after what happened in book one I thought she could stand up for herself more.
Other than that I’m enjoying this series and looking forward to the next book.
If you love:
🔹Fantasy Romance
🔹Arranged Marriage
🔹Slow Burn
🔹One Bed
🔹Betrayal
🔹Good Spice
Genre/Type: Dark Fantasy Romance 18+
APK: Kindle
Pages: 385
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Series Book 2 In The Elemental Viria Series
Tropes or Themes: Dark, Fantasy, Arranged Marriage, One Bed, Slow Burn, Forbidden, Elemental / Power System, Princess, Kingdoms, Protective MMC, Nightmares, Touch Her Or Die Vibes, Ball, Betrayal, It’s Always Been You, Sexual Content, Virgin, Praise, Blood & On Page Murder.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
November 28, 2023
Ok it took me a minute to remember everything that happened in the last book since it’s been so long but once I did, I was engrossed in the story!! I really enjoyed the way this book progressed from the last one! Aurelia is definitely still figuring out who she is without the oppression of her parents and we see her journey of discovering the world outside her tower. She still has a lot to learn about the world she lives in and her relationships with those around her but her character development in this book was really good. She is willing to put in the work to make sure she knows what’s going on around her and wants to be a good queen to her people. I loved the development of the romance in this book, it was a little bit of a slower burn but worth it! Overall I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to seeing in completed!
⚠️Some tropes include⚠️
*found family
*forbidden romance
*love triangle
*plot twists
*secrets & betrayal
*character development
*powerful FMC
Thank you Courtney for an ARC of this book 🤗
⚠️Some tropes include⚠️
*found family
*forbidden romance
*love triangle
*plot twists
*secrets & betrayal
*character development
*powerful FMC
Thank you Courtney for an ARC of this book 🤗
November 27, 2023
Let us begin the bridge burning…
Alrighty then, just so we are all aware, this book took over my Goodreads, my Facebook, my chat with my sister, and my living room/family. I ran myself through a gamut of emotions…but not the emotions the author was going for.
I have never given a review on an ARC that wasn’t positive. I know how much early reviews drive book sales, and even if everyone hates my opinions, they’re reading them. I would never do anything to hurt that important time in a baby book’s life. This is my world, too, as I’m not just a reader, but work in the fringes of the literary universe. Typically, I’ll bow out or wait a week or so before posting, taking my scolding from whoever controls the ARC team process and moving on. I just have too much to say this time, and I feel like someone should say it. It seems I’m always gonna be that guy and I’ve resigned myself to my fate.
I’m not going to lie or be mean, though. I’m also going to point out that my unwanted opinions are my own, and I forever encourage you to read all of the books and form your own . Please do not take anyone’s word as law. Everyone that reads a book will read a different one than you did. Art is subjective, and literature is just art with words.
With that being said, this book was a struggle for me to get through. At one point, I honestly felt like I was the butt of an extremely unfunny joke. Like everyone else was in on it and I just didn’t get it. I felt zero percent of the emotions I’m fairly certain I was supposed to, and instead just felt one hundred percent done.
Does Aurelia have BPD? Because I feel like she has BPD. I see you, girl, and he was never going to be your FP. That, and the absolute bad ass she was in book one wasn’t anywhere in this book until it was almost over, and even then it didn’t last and was contradicted with her inner dialogue and outward actions. Her naivety and ignorance due to her abuse and isolation growing up were all anyone ever saw, and Llyr and Cerise couldn’t carry her character by themselves. Is there really freedom and healing if neither are actually present, just alluded to?
I also really hope that the ARCs weren’t the final copies, because the dire need for editing is a standout in the top reasons I had such a difficult time reading this book. The errors alone were enough to cause me physical pain, but the inconsistencies added insult to injury. If you’re only wearing your undershirt, then you take said undershirt off, how are you taking it off again in the same scene? How does a slip transform back into a dress mid-ravaging?
Editing is so important. It’s 2023, and it’s never been worse. No one ever seems to comment on it or care, so we’re all just out here trying to make things make sense, and then pretending we’re fine with it, lest we hurt someone’s feelings. That’s not really fair for any party involved, honestly. I know it’s the thing that makes folx roll their eyes at me, but y’all still keep my DMs flooded on all platforms, so do with that information what you will.
I was obsessed with book one. Rabidly so. I’ve read it almost twenty times (which I also never do as I’m not one to go back and reread when I can remember things just fine) and I was too excited to verbally explain for this book. I have suggested both over and over to countless people, even in strictly MM romance circles. I touted it as one of the only cishet romantasy series I found I could still enjoy.
I no longer feel that way. I’ll read the last book when it comes out, but that’s only because I’m invested in the hope that gratuitous plot twists, ridiculous and unnecessary drama, and the one-up syndrome will fall away eventually and give way to a satisfying enough ending. It actually breaks my heart to say that, too, because I still hold so much love for book one. If I hadn’t read it so many times, I wouldn’t believe I’d loved it so much after reading this one. They feel like they came from two different authors. Like, if Sanderson had done TWoT dirty instead of rocking it.
It’s a depressing spotlight on why I left the cishet lit circle. It’s all about shock value, and when it doesn’t make sense, it doesn’t work. I get what the author was trying to do, but it fell flat and felt like I was reading a knock off of Zodiac Academy. Give them something good, then rip it away violently and replace it with ten more awful things. If I’m not getting any happy at all, what am I reading for? Seriously, if nothing good ever happens and gives me a reason to fight through the angst and pain, what’s the point? When everything is on fire and nothing ever gives the characters/readers any hope, it’s time to put the book down.
There’s so much I could say, but spoilers aren’t fun. When I say it’s actually causing me pain to write this review, I mean that. I never saw any of this coming, and I’m not talking about the umpteen plot twists. I saw those coming miles away.
But, again, for those that chose to skim and the ones stuck in the back that can’t hear/see:
Read the book. Make your own decision on whether you love it or loathe it.
3/5. As always, rating is for the book itself as it’s presented, and not my opinion. It needs A LOT of editing, and at least one more out-loud reading of the MS to fix the glaring issues with the grammar and the inconsistent content. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either. I’m off to read some fluffy as hell fluff as I cry over the fact that Llyr didn’t deserve any of that.
🫶🏽Remember to be kind to yourself when reading🫶🏽
[I received an ARC, and this is my honest opinion. I’m sorry, but I’m also not sorry, and for that I’m sorry. My review would’ve been the same had I purchased the book myself like I planned to initially.]
Alrighty then, just so we are all aware, this book took over my Goodreads, my Facebook, my chat with my sister, and my living room/family. I ran myself through a gamut of emotions…but not the emotions the author was going for.
I have never given a review on an ARC that wasn’t positive. I know how much early reviews drive book sales, and even if everyone hates my opinions, they’re reading them. I would never do anything to hurt that important time in a baby book’s life. This is my world, too, as I’m not just a reader, but work in the fringes of the literary universe. Typically, I’ll bow out or wait a week or so before posting, taking my scolding from whoever controls the ARC team process and moving on. I just have too much to say this time, and I feel like someone should say it. It seems I’m always gonna be that guy and I’ve resigned myself to my fate.
I’m not going to lie or be mean, though. I’m also going to point out that my unwanted opinions are my own, and I forever encourage you to read all of the books and form your own . Please do not take anyone’s word as law. Everyone that reads a book will read a different one than you did. Art is subjective, and literature is just art with words.
With that being said, this book was a struggle for me to get through. At one point, I honestly felt like I was the butt of an extremely unfunny joke. Like everyone else was in on it and I just didn’t get it. I felt zero percent of the emotions I’m fairly certain I was supposed to, and instead just felt one hundred percent done.
Does Aurelia have BPD? Because I feel like she has BPD. I see you, girl, and he was never going to be your FP. That, and the absolute bad ass she was in book one wasn’t anywhere in this book until it was almost over, and even then it didn’t last and was contradicted with her inner dialogue and outward actions. Her naivety and ignorance due to her abuse and isolation growing up were all anyone ever saw, and Llyr and Cerise couldn’t carry her character by themselves. Is there really freedom and healing if neither are actually present, just alluded to?
I also really hope that the ARCs weren’t the final copies, because the dire need for editing is a standout in the top reasons I had such a difficult time reading this book. The errors alone were enough to cause me physical pain, but the inconsistencies added insult to injury. If you’re only wearing your undershirt, then you take said undershirt off, how are you taking it off again in the same scene? How does a slip transform back into a dress mid-ravaging?
Editing is so important. It’s 2023, and it’s never been worse. No one ever seems to comment on it or care, so we’re all just out here trying to make things make sense, and then pretending we’re fine with it, lest we hurt someone’s feelings. That’s not really fair for any party involved, honestly. I know it’s the thing that makes folx roll their eyes at me, but y’all still keep my DMs flooded on all platforms, so do with that information what you will.
I was obsessed with book one. Rabidly so. I’ve read it almost twenty times (which I also never do as I’m not one to go back and reread when I can remember things just fine) and I was too excited to verbally explain for this book. I have suggested both over and over to countless people, even in strictly MM romance circles. I touted it as one of the only cishet romantasy series I found I could still enjoy.
I no longer feel that way. I’ll read the last book when it comes out, but that’s only because I’m invested in the hope that gratuitous plot twists, ridiculous and unnecessary drama, and the one-up syndrome will fall away eventually and give way to a satisfying enough ending. It actually breaks my heart to say that, too, because I still hold so much love for book one. If I hadn’t read it so many times, I wouldn’t believe I’d loved it so much after reading this one. They feel like they came from two different authors. Like, if Sanderson had done TWoT dirty instead of rocking it.
It’s a depressing spotlight on why I left the cishet lit circle. It’s all about shock value, and when it doesn’t make sense, it doesn’t work. I get what the author was trying to do, but it fell flat and felt like I was reading a knock off of Zodiac Academy. Give them something good, then rip it away violently and replace it with ten more awful things. If I’m not getting any happy at all, what am I reading for? Seriously, if nothing good ever happens and gives me a reason to fight through the angst and pain, what’s the point? When everything is on fire and nothing ever gives the characters/readers any hope, it’s time to put the book down.
There’s so much I could say, but spoilers aren’t fun. When I say it’s actually causing me pain to write this review, I mean that. I never saw any of this coming, and I’m not talking about the umpteen plot twists. I saw those coming miles away.
But, again, for those that chose to skim and the ones stuck in the back that can’t hear/see:
Read the book. Make your own decision on whether you love it or loathe it.
3/5. As always, rating is for the book itself as it’s presented, and not my opinion. It needs A LOT of editing, and at least one more out-loud reading of the MS to fix the glaring issues with the grammar and the inconsistent content. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t love it either. I’m off to read some fluffy as hell fluff as I cry over the fact that Llyr didn’t deserve any of that.
🫶🏽Remember to be kind to yourself when reading🫶🏽
[I received an ARC, and this is my honest opinion. I’m sorry, but I’m also not sorry, and for that I’m sorry. My review would’ve been the same had I purchased the book myself like I planned to initially.]
November 26, 2023
Another ARC from Courtney? Yes please!
Overall I loved reading about Aurelia’s thought process and learning about who she is, her grappling with being free (finally), her nightmares, and more during this novel. Something to keep in mind is that Aurelia not only has been locked away in a legit tower, but girly is only 21. And I know I acted like her (when it comes to boys) the same way at 21.
I didn’t expect the ending at all, and it left me excited for the third novel to come out!
Overall I loved reading about Aurelia’s thought process and learning about who she is, her grappling with being free (finally), her nightmares, and more during this novel. Something to keep in mind is that Aurelia not only has been locked away in a legit tower, but girly is only 21. And I know I acted like her (when it comes to boys) the same way at 21.
I didn’t expect the ending at all, and it left me excited for the third novel to come out!
November 29, 2023
I waited a whole year for this book to come out. Book one had a major ending that shocked me so much that it was all I could think about for months after finishing the book. All I wanted was to know what happened to Aurelia after that crazy ending of book one. And let me tell you, that year long wait was so worth it because book two was absolutely amazing!
At the end of book one we get to se Aurelia become the badass princess that she needed to be. And then in this book we get to see her actually take the time to have a life and learn who she could have been if her parents treated her right. I loved seeing the badass side of Aurelia, but seeing her be the innocent and inexperienced girl was the right call. Like she was locked in a tower her whole life so ya she's not going to know how to stay the way she was at the end of book one. She finally has the chance to just be a girl and fall in love with a guy. I'm glad we got to see that softer side of her too.
Be warned that there is a love triangle in this book. I hate love triangles but I thought this one was done so well and it will have you be torn in two for both of these men. I knew it was coming but having to watch her choose one of them was so sad because I loved both of these men. Both of them have done so much for Aurelia and it just sucked knowing she had to choose.
I think the worldbuilding is so great in this book and I really hope we get to see more of the courts in the next book. I also loved that we got a new aspect in this book with the end of their realm and that wall of darkness. I am so excited to see where that takes us.
The ending of this book was just like the last one where shit goes down and it goes down fast. The betrayal, the heartbreak and deception that Aurelia had to go through just made you hurt for her. Like she has been through so much, but lets throw in some more heartbreak for her to deal with. The ending had me in tears and I just don't want to believe that it actually happened. And it sucks that I can't say more about it because it will give it away, but the ending was just so great.
I did get an ARC of this book and there was still plenty of errors in the book. I know for some people that is a major turn off for a book, but for me I don't have a major issue with it. Hopefully they all get fixed for the final release.
Overall this book exceeded my expectations, and those expectations were already high. I highly recommend this series to everyone. Sleep and Spirit is Courtney's first book and you would not think it was with how good it is. I can't wait to read more from her and start collecting all of her books.
At the end of book one we get to se Aurelia become the badass princess that she needed to be. And then in this book we get to see her actually take the time to have a life and learn who she could have been if her parents treated her right. I loved seeing the badass side of Aurelia, but seeing her be the innocent and inexperienced girl was the right call. Like she was locked in a tower her whole life so ya she's not going to know how to stay the way she was at the end of book one. She finally has the chance to just be a girl and fall in love with a guy. I'm glad we got to see that softer side of her too.
Be warned that there is a love triangle in this book. I hate love triangles but I thought this one was done so well and it will have you be torn in two for both of these men. I knew it was coming but having to watch her choose one of them was so sad because I loved both of these men. Both of them have done so much for Aurelia and it just sucked knowing she had to choose.
I think the worldbuilding is so great in this book and I really hope we get to see more of the courts in the next book. I also loved that we got a new aspect in this book with the end of their realm and that wall of darkness. I am so excited to see where that takes us.
The ending of this book was just like the last one where shit goes down and it goes down fast. The betrayal, the heartbreak and deception that Aurelia had to go through just made you hurt for her. Like she has been through so much, but lets throw in some more heartbreak for her to deal with. The ending had me in tears and I just don't want to believe that it actually happened. And it sucks that I can't say more about it because it will give it away, but the ending was just so great.
I did get an ARC of this book and there was still plenty of errors in the book. I know for some people that is a major turn off for a book, but for me I don't have a major issue with it. Hopefully they all get fixed for the final release.
Overall this book exceeded my expectations, and those expectations were already high. I highly recommend this series to everyone. Sleep and Spirit is Courtney's first book and you would not think it was with how good it is. I can't wait to read more from her and start collecting all of her books.
November 23, 2023
May contain spoilers for book one!
Ok, first off.. Courtney.. I knew it! I freaking knew it!! Finally! You left me hanging in the last book! lol
I have been waiting a painfully long time for this book to come out and it put me through all the emotions. The story starts as a slow buildup. Aurelia is finally free and out of the tower, no longer under the control of her parents. She’s trying to figure out her place in the world and learning how it works, all while grappling with secrets she’s hiding from Alev. She now has the task of keeping the other kingdoms placated, well dodging them is slightly more accurate, all while she’s developing a plan to avoid being forced into a marriage. They all expect her to marry their sons, since her father made a shady deal in exchange for an element, and she has absolutely no intention of doing that. We saw in the last book just how truly awful and misogynistic some of these “suitors” from the other kingdoms really were (like the one obsessed with purity.. I loathe him with a passion. His character not the story).
Aurelia tends to puts more trust into people than she should. However, who can blame a girl that’s been locked in a tower her entire life and finally gets shown an ounce of humanity.
The last few chapters are really fast paced and contain a lot of information that really ties the entire story together, so don’t do any skip reading or you will probably miss some extremely important details.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I’m afraid it’s going to spoil a huge plot line.. I am so happy about some of the events. I was hoping to finally find answers to some unresolved questions from book one! Thank you Courtney!
Overall the book had my undivided attention the whole time and I read through the entire book in a six hour binge session. The characters, the chemistry, the twists at the end.. it was all so amazing! I highly recommend this, but read book one first! This is not a standalone. Read the trigger warnings and don’t blame the author for reading something you were warned about!
Ok, first off.. Courtney.. I knew it! I freaking knew it!! Finally! You left me hanging in the last book! lol
I have been waiting a painfully long time for this book to come out and it put me through all the emotions. The story starts as a slow buildup. Aurelia is finally free and out of the tower, no longer under the control of her parents. She’s trying to figure out her place in the world and learning how it works, all while grappling with secrets she’s hiding from Alev. She now has the task of keeping the other kingdoms placated, well dodging them is slightly more accurate, all while she’s developing a plan to avoid being forced into a marriage. They all expect her to marry their sons, since her father made a shady deal in exchange for an element, and she has absolutely no intention of doing that. We saw in the last book just how truly awful and misogynistic some of these “suitors” from the other kingdoms really were (like the one obsessed with purity.. I loathe him with a passion. His character not the story).
Aurelia tends to puts more trust into people than she should. However, who can blame a girl that’s been locked in a tower her entire life and finally gets shown an ounce of humanity.
The last few chapters are really fast paced and contain a lot of information that really ties the entire story together, so don’t do any skip reading or you will probably miss some extremely important details.
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I’m afraid it’s going to spoil a huge plot line.. I am so happy about some of the events. I was hoping to finally find answers to some unresolved questions from book one! Thank you Courtney!
Overall the book had my undivided attention the whole time and I read through the entire book in a six hour binge session. The characters, the chemistry, the twists at the end.. it was all so amazing! I highly recommend this, but read book one first! This is not a standalone. Read the trigger warnings and don’t blame the author for reading something you were warned about!
November 22, 2023
Freedom and fire put me through my emotions. All of them. It picks up only a short time after Sleep and Spirit, our new Queen Aurelia is learning how to embrace her hard-won freedom and all the hard decisions that come with it. When Prince Alev of the Fire Kingdom invites her to celebrate the Season of Fire in his kingdom, she eagerly accepts. And our story only builds from there.
I felt it was a strong representation of the self doubt and internal conflict of someone trying to discover themselves. Her back and forth indecision would almost seem contradictory to anyone who hasn't experienced the absolutely overwhelming feeling of having control after having none at all, but to me it was perfectly displayed. Between that and her behaviors that screamed PTSD, I was so glad that we didn't have another magically well adjusted fantasy heroine.
Freedom and Fire pulled the thread tight and drew you along through Aurelia's adventure with all of its twists and turns. From page one I wanted to take her by the hands and point out what she was blatantly ignoring and excusing. By 50% I had very firmly established my favorite character, and by 60% I was in a fully committed relationship. And let me tell you, I really don't think there's another choice.
In all seriousness, Freedom and Fire allowed for more levity than was feasible in Sleep and Spirit. Overall it has a lighter tone feeling kind of like a respite before the next storm. It was well paced and did a fantastic job of answering questions left unanswered in Sleep and Spirit. The characters developed in a very organic way, the spice was SPICY, and I can't think of an emotion that was spared.
I was lucky enough to receive Freedom and Fire as an ARC.
I felt it was a strong representation of the self doubt and internal conflict of someone trying to discover themselves. Her back and forth indecision would almost seem contradictory to anyone who hasn't experienced the absolutely overwhelming feeling of having control after having none at all, but to me it was perfectly displayed. Between that and her behaviors that screamed PTSD, I was so glad that we didn't have another magically well adjusted fantasy heroine.
Freedom and Fire pulled the thread tight and drew you along through Aurelia's adventure with all of its twists and turns. From page one I wanted to take her by the hands and point out what she was blatantly ignoring and excusing. By 50% I had very firmly established my favorite character, and by 60% I was in a fully committed relationship. And let me tell you, I really don't think there's another choice.
In all seriousness, Freedom and Fire allowed for more levity than was feasible in Sleep and Spirit. Overall it has a lighter tone feeling kind of like a respite before the next storm. It was well paced and did a fantastic job of answering questions left unanswered in Sleep and Spirit. The characters developed in a very organic way, the spice was SPICY, and I can't think of an emotion that was spared.
I was lucky enough to receive Freedom and Fire as an ARC.
November 23, 2023
Must read book 1 first. The fmc, Auriela is now secretly the spirit queen after the trials she goes through in book 1. She just wants to experience life and venture out her kingdom all while keeping her upcoming nuptials away. The fire prince comes to take her to her kingdom. She gets to have an adventure and explore her feelings for the fire prince, Alev all though her thoughts/feeljngs always come back to her dreams of the man she does not know exists. Except for while in the fire kingdom she learns the man from her dreams is real with a twist she couldn't have imagined. She is experiencing new things and seeing the kingdom all while the fire kingdom is pushing her to announce her engagement which she can't do without starting a war. She has nightmares, finds comfort, magic and she is only just coming into oneself and then the betrayals happen. The ending and cliff hanger will have you crying... an absolute must read!
November 23, 2023
4.5/5
Despite being really freaking confused at the start of the book (through no fault of the book’s or the authors- it’s simply been a literal year since I read Sleep and Spirit) I really really liked Freedom and Fire!
Freedom and Fire (coming to you November 27, 2023) is the sequel to Sleep and Spirit, and follows Aurelia as she navigates the newfound aspects of her life following the events of book one.
It was such a quick read and it kept me hooked the entire time, despite my original confusion (which went away the more I immersed myself in the story). I LOVED the plot twists so much, the last one literally had me screaming “WHAT” at 2 AM- no joke.
I’m super excited to see what Courtney Thorne has up her sleeve for the next installment of this series!
I was an ARC reader for Sleep and Spirit, and I’m honored to be one for Freedom and Fire as well.
Despite being really freaking confused at the start of the book (through no fault of the book’s or the authors- it’s simply been a literal year since I read Sleep and Spirit) I really really liked Freedom and Fire!
Freedom and Fire (coming to you November 27, 2023) is the sequel to Sleep and Spirit, and follows Aurelia as she navigates the newfound aspects of her life following the events of book one.
It was such a quick read and it kept me hooked the entire time, despite my original confusion (which went away the more I immersed myself in the story). I LOVED the plot twists so much, the last one literally had me screaming “WHAT” at 2 AM- no joke.
I’m super excited to see what Courtney Thorne has up her sleeve for the next installment of this series!
I was an ARC reader for Sleep and Spirit, and I’m honored to be one for Freedom and Fire as well.
December 3, 2023
4.5/5 ⭐️
Absolutely can not wait for the next and final book in this trilogy. I loved so many parts of this book, the relationships, the twist and turns - all of it!
I do not like to put in spoilers so I wont say much more.
I do agree with some others that there is some editing errors but personally I dont pay mind to them much , they didn’t distract me and I was fully engrossed in the story that the beautiful author has created.
Absolutely can not wait for the next and final book in this trilogy. I loved so many parts of this book, the relationships, the twist and turns - all of it!
I do not like to put in spoilers so I wont say much more.
I do agree with some others that there is some editing errors but personally I dont pay mind to them much , they didn’t distract me and I was fully engrossed in the story that the beautiful author has created.
January 6, 2024
After LOVING the first book, I was so excited to dig into this book with a friend! Unfortunately I felt bored and annoyed with about 50% of this book. The “do I, or don’t I” love interest for the majority was soooooo drug out and boring. But THE END. WHAT?! I wish the ending wasn’t so rushed, and the boring middle was shorter. That would’ve made this book top tier.
I am giving this a 3 star review because of how bored and frustrated I was with the majority of the book. However, the ending had me screaming and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book. I truly hope it’s better!
This book also needs some editing help! Quite a few times I was surprised at the errors that could’ve easily been found with just some simple proof reading.
I am giving this a 3 star review because of how bored and frustrated I was with the majority of the book. However, the ending had me screaming and I’m definitely looking forward to the next book. I truly hope it’s better!
This book also needs some editing help! Quite a few times I was surprised at the errors that could’ve easily been found with just some simple proof reading.
November 23, 2023
I have been obsessed with Courtney Thorne since Sleep and Spirit and stalking her page for book 2, and i am so excited for this book! I loved this book so much. Aurelia is whisked away from the spirit kingdom by fire pince Alev, but don't worry, we haven't forgotten about our mysterious man of our dreams, llyr.
This book spice level gets Spicer as it progresses. I love seeing Aurelia go from a sheltered girl in a tower to one who isn't afraid to take what she wants sexualy.
I dont want to give any spoilers, but I normally can see things coming a mile away, but the plot twists and turns came out of nowhere, and I was like omg!!!
This book spice level gets Spicer as it progresses. I love seeing Aurelia go from a sheltered girl in a tower to one who isn't afraid to take what she wants sexualy.
I dont want to give any spoilers, but I normally can see things coming a mile away, but the plot twists and turns came out of nowhere, and I was like omg!!!
November 27, 2023
Holy crap! This series is getting better and better! Aurelia has to deal with the aftermath of the end of book 1, and she goes to visit the Fire Kingdom with Prince Alec. What she doesn’t expect is to find someone she thought wasn’t real when she gets there. There are so many betrayals, lies, and heart break! I can’t wait to see what comes next!!!
November 27, 2023
I was a lucky one and received the ARC…
This makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's diary. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account.
I’m new to this genre but definitely looking forward to more from Mrs Thorne
This makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's diary. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account.
I’m new to this genre but definitely looking forward to more from Mrs Thorne
January 1, 2024
Full review to follow!
November 22, 2025
It was a good read but it felt like a lot of tropes were forced. The plot points all kind of happened really quick as well and things seemed to fall into place too easily idk
January 20, 2025
“every second i’m awake, you are on my mind. i’ve never—not once— been able to think of anyone but you. it’s always you. it’s always been you. and it will always be you.”
May 19, 2024
Read time: 3 hours 3 minutes
This was a good book honestly, I’m just in a massive reading slump. Aurelia is the FMC we all deserve though
This was a good book honestly, I’m just in a massive reading slump. Aurelia is the FMC we all deserve though
November 22, 2023
This book kept me on my toes. The relationship growth, the plot twists, and the betrayals kept me guessing what was going to happen next. I loved the continued growth of Aurelia as she navigated the death of her father, and the freedom she gained was amazing.
June 24, 2024
I can't even explain how good this book was. I'm so mad I didn't research to know it was an unfinished series because now I have to wait. OH MY GOD.
May 27, 2024
Ahhhh this was so good! I read both books within 24hrs and now I don’t know what to do with my life. So so good.
July 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️.5
🫑
Tropes: Love Triangles, Elemental Magic, Arranged Marriage, Female Rage, Dreamscape, Retelling, Insta-Love, and Coming of Age.
🫑
Tropes: Love Triangles, Elemental Magic, Arranged Marriage, Female Rage, Dreamscape, Retelling, Insta-Love, and Coming of Age.
September 12, 2024
★★★★☆ 3.9 stars
✘ Pace
✔ Addicting/couldn’t put it down
✔ Supporting characters
✔ Slow burn
✔ Love triangle
✔ Forced Proximity
✔ “I am the monster you made me”
✔ One bed
✔ Cliffhanger
✔ Magic
✔ Betrayal
🌶️ Spice level: 3/5
What I didn’t love:
✘ NOO! This book was so good until the last chapter. It just ENDED.
✘ The first 2/3 of the book was addicting. It slowed down for a while then BAM a ton of action towards the end and then… stop.
What I loved:
♥ Okay, I did like this book though. Similar to book 1, it was predictable but enjoyable - a simple read and I liked the storyline.
♥ MFC is still a badass. I loved the underlying theme of empowerment and taking back control. Aurelia has all of this power and yet no power at all.
“But I wasn’t ready for more. I wasn’t ready to hand my life over to Alev and the Fire Kingdom in marriage. I had my own kingdom to rule, and I wasn’t ready to let someone else step in and change my life so soon.”
“But that small part of logic lit up like a fire in the night. I didn’t have to give any part of me away until I was ready. Just because the king was insisting on marriage, or just because I had developing feelings for Alev and enjoyed the physical side of our relationship didn’t mean that I had to have sex with him just yet. I could hold onto that choice for as long as I wanted to.”
“It was how I wasn’t strong enough, and likely never would be, to take my freedom by the reins and control my own life. How I could never let myself make decisions for me, or the realm around me. How I would always choose what was right for others instead of what was right for me.”
“Gone was the girl that fawned over this male and spoke softly. In her place was the fucking Queen of Spirit.”
”I was a fucking queen, and I would bow to no male in this room. I would not allow them to think of me as lower than them. If anything, I was stronger than them, not only because of the sheer power in my veins but because I had to fight for where I was now. The crown wasn’t handed to me as it had been to them. Instead, I had to pry it off of my dead father’s head, and I wouldn’t be quick to forget that.”
SPOILER: ♥ The love triangle is triangling! It was suspenseful and I was so torn between both Fire princes!
“Your brother is a very lucky male.” Adan’s eyes met mine sharply, colored a deep and burning red. “Indeed. He is.” Though he said it through gritted teeth.
“But Adan gave me a sense of safety that Alev couldn’t provide. Adan wasn’t my betrothed, as written in the contract since I was a baby. Adan didn’t have a vested interest in me because of the power in my veins. Instead, he was here because of me. Not because of what I could give him.”
“I waited my entire fucking life for you.” He ran a hand through his dark hair. His laughter grew darker. I started shaking my head as he turned to me, tears finally filling my eyes. The pain in his voice—I felt it too. And not in a sympathetic way. I felt it. “Adan, I—” “You’re his, Aurelia. And I’m in here showing you how to dance. You’re his, but I’m the one who wakes you from your nightmares. You’re his, but you give me this look—” He waves a hand at my face—“that look!”
SPOILER: ♥ The true love that ‘Briar’ and ‘Lyr’ have for each other
“But they weren’t just dreams, were they?”
“I felt angry at him, and I couldn’t exactly pinpoint the reason. I supposed it was just his mere existence. The fact that he was real after all this time and that the dreams weren’t just my imagination. I was mad at life. I was mad at myself.”
““Llyr, I—” I stopped myself, realizing it wasn’t the first time I’d used the fake name. “It’s okay. I am whoever you need me to be down here.” Swallowing what felt like shards of glass in my throat, I nodded, knowing the truth in that statement. “Just know,” Adan started, giving me a somber look. “The Virium you met down here… is the same one with you now. I gave you my real self, and I always will.”
“There was too much building between us, and I didn’t know how to make it stop. Adan was everything that I had thought he was in our dreams, but more.”
“You are magnificent, Aurelia. Briar. My Queen. And I would hate to miss a single part of it.”
There will be a book 3 eventually… will I read it? Probably so.
✘ Pace
✔ Addicting/couldn’t put it down
✔ Supporting characters
✔ Slow burn
✔ Love triangle
✔ Forced Proximity
✔ “I am the monster you made me”
✔ One bed
✔ Cliffhanger
✔ Magic
✔ Betrayal
🌶️ Spice level: 3/5
What I didn’t love:
✘ NOO! This book was so good until the last chapter. It just ENDED.
✘ The first 2/3 of the book was addicting. It slowed down for a while then BAM a ton of action towards the end and then… stop.
What I loved:
♥ Okay, I did like this book though. Similar to book 1, it was predictable but enjoyable - a simple read and I liked the storyline.
♥ MFC is still a badass. I loved the underlying theme of empowerment and taking back control. Aurelia has all of this power and yet no power at all.
“But I wasn’t ready for more. I wasn’t ready to hand my life over to Alev and the Fire Kingdom in marriage. I had my own kingdom to rule, and I wasn’t ready to let someone else step in and change my life so soon.”
“But that small part of logic lit up like a fire in the night. I didn’t have to give any part of me away until I was ready. Just because the king was insisting on marriage, or just because I had developing feelings for Alev and enjoyed the physical side of our relationship didn’t mean that I had to have sex with him just yet. I could hold onto that choice for as long as I wanted to.”
“It was how I wasn’t strong enough, and likely never would be, to take my freedom by the reins and control my own life. How I could never let myself make decisions for me, or the realm around me. How I would always choose what was right for others instead of what was right for me.”
“Gone was the girl that fawned over this male and spoke softly. In her place was the fucking Queen of Spirit.”
”I was a fucking queen, and I would bow to no male in this room. I would not allow them to think of me as lower than them. If anything, I was stronger than them, not only because of the sheer power in my veins but because I had to fight for where I was now. The crown wasn’t handed to me as it had been to them. Instead, I had to pry it off of my dead father’s head, and I wouldn’t be quick to forget that.”
SPOILER: ♥ The love triangle is triangling! It was suspenseful and I was so torn between both Fire princes!
“Your brother is a very lucky male.” Adan’s eyes met mine sharply, colored a deep and burning red. “Indeed. He is.” Though he said it through gritted teeth.
“But Adan gave me a sense of safety that Alev couldn’t provide. Adan wasn’t my betrothed, as written in the contract since I was a baby. Adan didn’t have a vested interest in me because of the power in my veins. Instead, he was here because of me. Not because of what I could give him.”
“I waited my entire fucking life for you.” He ran a hand through his dark hair. His laughter grew darker. I started shaking my head as he turned to me, tears finally filling my eyes. The pain in his voice—I felt it too. And not in a sympathetic way. I felt it. “Adan, I—” “You’re his, Aurelia. And I’m in here showing you how to dance. You’re his, but I’m the one who wakes you from your nightmares. You’re his, but you give me this look—” He waves a hand at my face—“that look!”
SPOILER: ♥ The true love that ‘Briar’ and ‘Lyr’ have for each other
“But they weren’t just dreams, were they?”
“I felt angry at him, and I couldn’t exactly pinpoint the reason. I supposed it was just his mere existence. The fact that he was real after all this time and that the dreams weren’t just my imagination. I was mad at life. I was mad at myself.”
““Llyr, I—” I stopped myself, realizing it wasn’t the first time I’d used the fake name. “It’s okay. I am whoever you need me to be down here.” Swallowing what felt like shards of glass in my throat, I nodded, knowing the truth in that statement. “Just know,” Adan started, giving me a somber look. “The Virium you met down here… is the same one with you now. I gave you my real self, and I always will.”
“There was too much building between us, and I didn’t know how to make it stop. Adan was everything that I had thought he was in our dreams, but more.”
“You are magnificent, Aurelia. Briar. My Queen. And I would hate to miss a single part of it.”
There will be a book 3 eventually… will I read it? Probably so.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2024
This book and the first in the series was easy enough to read, but there were a few things which caused me to take a whole month to read it. I’ll start with the negatives, to me the writing was immature and there were many editorial errors in both books that caused me to have to reread several passages two or three times before I was able to understand what was happening. In one spot I believe the author mixed up the names of two of the princes and called the one from Air the prince of Water’s name which really confused me because one is described as a jerk and the other a potential friend to the Princess. I can overlook some issues like double words or an extra word in a sentence, but there are a lot in this book that it made me want to throw it a couple times. Another thing that really bothered me about this book was the Aurelia was always crying. I understand she is described as 21 years old (which is young by the book’s standards) and being locked away all her life and being a bit naïve, but I’ve read other books with the same characteristics and that character doesn’t cry over everything. She would cry when she was happy, sad, angry, embarrassed or even if someone smiled at her to where I wanted to reach into the book and slap her. I also felt like the “love triangle” of the story did not have to be on every page. I didn’t feel like this book moved at a fast pace because Aurelia seemed more focused on who she should love over the impending war that was held over our heads the entire book. I was so bored by her constant worrying over who to love it made me put the book down for a week before I could bring myself to pick it back up.
Although many parts of this book bored or annoyed me, I still really enjoyed the story itself. This was a different take on elemental magic and arranged marriage/s. I did like how by the end of the book Princess Aurelia, now Queen, could finally stick up for herself without losing control over her emotions and blowing things up while crying. The last few chapters were a whirlwind of some of the story coming to a close and giving answers to questions I had I worried the author wouldn’t come back to. I did think this was a completed duology, and am glad it is not because the way this book ended has me wanting more. My hope is that the next book comes out soon so I can read it, but with maybe another edit or two thrown in to make sure it doesn’t get repetitive again. Overall the story is a placed in fantastic world with some really lovable characters and I can’t wait to see if Aurelia can fix the blight upon the kingdoms and help usher in a new era of acceptance while also growing into a more mature person who doesn’t second guess herself and cry every other minute!
Although many parts of this book bored or annoyed me, I still really enjoyed the story itself. This was a different take on elemental magic and arranged marriage/s. I did like how by the end of the book Princess Aurelia, now Queen, could finally stick up for herself without losing control over her emotions and blowing things up while crying. The last few chapters were a whirlwind of some of the story coming to a close and giving answers to questions I had I worried the author wouldn’t come back to. I did think this was a completed duology, and am glad it is not because the way this book ended has me wanting more. My hope is that the next book comes out soon so I can read it, but with maybe another edit or two thrown in to make sure it doesn’t get repetitive again. Overall the story is a placed in fantastic world with some really lovable characters and I can’t wait to see if Aurelia can fix the blight upon the kingdoms and help usher in a new era of acceptance while also growing into a more mature person who doesn’t second guess herself and cry every other minute!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
I’ll start off this review by saying two things:
One- I wanted to be wrong about one of my theories. I’ve never wanted to be more wrong.
Two- I loved everything about this book other than the fact that I was right.
The love story between Aurelia/Alev/Adan gives similar vibes to Reign and I am here for it. What I loved most about the relationship between Aurelia and Alev was that while neither party was perfect, and Alev definitely made mistakes, the author did not completely villainize him and make him hate her for choosing his brother. Did he make a massive mistake at the end? Absolutely. But he also redeemed himself in my eyes. I don’t believe he was ever ill intentioned towards Aurelia. He never assumed to hurt her, but his ambitions did. I also think it was a case of just not right for her, but still a decent character. He helped her experience freedom and gave her permission to take things for herself. A lot of what Aurelia was able to overcome was in part thanks to him.
Now let’s discuss Adan/Llyr. *swoon* I freaking love this man. The little ways he showed he cares, paid attention, and always protected her won me over. When he was in the dream world I wasn’t sure how I felt about him because I thought he was too… soft. I like my MMCs a little dark, dominant, and rough around the edges. BOY WAS I WRONG. in real life Adan was EVERYTHING I -and Aurelia- needed. I had a very strong feeling I knew his identity going into this book (I was right) and it made for some incredible tension. I also had a feeling he was hiding something from her, but not something that could harm her. I do think she is very quick to judge and lose trust (like hear a guy out babe), but I also understand she has a lot of reason to be wary of people and not trust easily. Very interested to see how that plays out in the next book.
Now let’s talk Aurelia. This girl needs to heal. She’s got some intense emotional trauma she isn’t working through. I think that’s why we see her go from “I’m the villain now” to questioning everything for most of book two. She’s straight up compartmentalizing her trauma, trying to figure out how to run a kingdom she was never educated on, and navigate 4 betrothals without inciting war? I’m surprised she held it together as good as she did. I think we’ll see more of villain Aurelia in book 3 and I’m here for it.
Lastly, I have never wanted to be wrong as badly as I did about my prediction that one of the princes would die at the end. That was truly heartbreaking and I’m shattered.
There are so many questions going into book three, I can’t wait to see how this ends.
One- I wanted to be wrong about one of my theories. I’ve never wanted to be more wrong.
Two- I loved everything about this book other than the fact that I was right.
The love story between Aurelia/Alev/Adan gives similar vibes to Reign and I am here for it. What I loved most about the relationship between Aurelia and Alev was that while neither party was perfect, and Alev definitely made mistakes, the author did not completely villainize him and make him hate her for choosing his brother. Did he make a massive mistake at the end? Absolutely. But he also redeemed himself in my eyes. I don’t believe he was ever ill intentioned towards Aurelia. He never assumed to hurt her, but his ambitions did. I also think it was a case of just not right for her, but still a decent character. He helped her experience freedom and gave her permission to take things for herself. A lot of what Aurelia was able to overcome was in part thanks to him.
Now let’s discuss Adan/Llyr. *swoon* I freaking love this man. The little ways he showed he cares, paid attention, and always protected her won me over. When he was in the dream world I wasn’t sure how I felt about him because I thought he was too… soft. I like my MMCs a little dark, dominant, and rough around the edges. BOY WAS I WRONG. in real life Adan was EVERYTHING I -and Aurelia- needed. I had a very strong feeling I knew his identity going into this book (I was right) and it made for some incredible tension. I also had a feeling he was hiding something from her, but not something that could harm her. I do think she is very quick to judge and lose trust (like hear a guy out babe), but I also understand she has a lot of reason to be wary of people and not trust easily. Very interested to see how that plays out in the next book.
Now let’s talk Aurelia. This girl needs to heal. She’s got some intense emotional trauma she isn’t working through. I think that’s why we see her go from “I’m the villain now” to questioning everything for most of book two. She’s straight up compartmentalizing her trauma, trying to figure out how to run a kingdom she was never educated on, and navigate 4 betrothals without inciting war? I’m surprised she held it together as good as she did. I think we’ll see more of villain Aurelia in book 3 and I’m here for it.
Lastly, I have never wanted to be wrong as badly as I did about my prediction that one of the princes would die at the end. That was truly heartbreaking and I’m shattered.
There are so many questions going into book three, I can’t wait to see how this ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
📖🌸𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺•𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆🌸📖
📚🌼𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦🌼📚
🔥𝙵𝚁𝙴𝙴𝙳𝙾𝙼 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙸𝚁𝙴 𝙱𝚈 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝚁𝚃𝙽𝙴𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚁𝙽𝙴
🔥𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙴𝙻𝙴𝙼𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙰𝙻 𝚅𝙸𝚁𝙸𝙰 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
🔥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
🔥𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟸𝟽𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹
🔥𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ♾️ || 𝟻
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
Thank you so much to Courtney Thorne for my gifted eARC of Freedom and Fire!
AH!! This was such a fantastic continuation of Aurelia’s story!! I LOVED this book. Oh my gosh, the plot twists & turns had me screaming. I just wanted to wrap Aurelia up in a big hug & protect her from all of her trauma from Book 1. Her character development in Book 2 was inspiring & I love seeing her become more comfortable & confident in herself.
This book picks up pretty quickly from where we leave off in Book 1, & also answers one of my biggest questions from the first book! & let me tell you, the answer to that question had me screaming (IYKYK)! As far as the romance goes, it will have you feeling ALL the emotions. And the situation with the love triangle… I can’t say too much, but it was the most DELICIOUS angst and tension that will leave you wanting more in the best way. I really can’t say too much, but it was a roller coaster for sure and my emotions were literally all over the place.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this was just a really fantastic book. It was one of my most highly anticipated releases & it delivered in every single way I was hoping it would. Courtney’s writing style creates such an effortless reading experience & I flew through this book & finished it in 2 days without even realizing it. The story, the characters, and the world building/magic system are all written so well & are so easy to comprehend. I LOVED the world expansion & seeing more of the Fire Kingdom. The characters are so lovable & easy to connect with, especially my girl Aurelia. The romance & spice were just *chef’s kiss.* Honestly, this whole book & series is *chef’s kiss* & deserves way more hype!
I am positively reeling from the ending… I need the next book ASAP just because SKDMEALFKKRWLFLELFK!! Anyway… I cannot recommend this series enough!!
🌼𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲...🌼
🌸Rapunzel & Sleeping Beauty Vibes
🌸Powerful FMC
🌸Love Triangles
🌸Elemental Magic
🌸Secrets & Hidden Identities
🌸Spice
🌸Magical Festival Celebrations
🌸Touch Her & Die
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
📚🌼𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦🌼📚
🔥𝙵𝚁𝙴𝙴𝙳𝙾𝙼 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙸𝚁𝙴 𝙱𝚈 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝚁𝚃𝙽𝙴𝚈 𝚃𝙷𝙾𝚁𝙽𝙴
🔥𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙴𝙻𝙴𝙼𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙰𝙻 𝚅𝙸𝚁𝙸𝙰 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
🔥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
🔥𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟸𝟽𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹
🔥𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ♾️ || 𝟻
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
Thank you so much to Courtney Thorne for my gifted eARC of Freedom and Fire!
AH!! This was such a fantastic continuation of Aurelia’s story!! I LOVED this book. Oh my gosh, the plot twists & turns had me screaming. I just wanted to wrap Aurelia up in a big hug & protect her from all of her trauma from Book 1. Her character development in Book 2 was inspiring & I love seeing her become more comfortable & confident in herself.
This book picks up pretty quickly from where we leave off in Book 1, & also answers one of my biggest questions from the first book! & let me tell you, the answer to that question had me screaming (IYKYK)! As far as the romance goes, it will have you feeling ALL the emotions. And the situation with the love triangle… I can’t say too much, but it was the most DELICIOUS angst and tension that will leave you wanting more in the best way. I really can’t say too much, but it was a roller coaster for sure and my emotions were literally all over the place.
I don’t want to give too much away, but this was just a really fantastic book. It was one of my most highly anticipated releases & it delivered in every single way I was hoping it would. Courtney’s writing style creates such an effortless reading experience & I flew through this book & finished it in 2 days without even realizing it. The story, the characters, and the world building/magic system are all written so well & are so easy to comprehend. I LOVED the world expansion & seeing more of the Fire Kingdom. The characters are so lovable & easy to connect with, especially my girl Aurelia. The romance & spice were just *chef’s kiss.* Honestly, this whole book & series is *chef’s kiss* & deserves way more hype!
I am positively reeling from the ending… I need the next book ASAP just because SKDMEALFKKRWLFLELFK!! Anyway… I cannot recommend this series enough!!
🌼𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲...🌼
🌸Rapunzel & Sleeping Beauty Vibes
🌸Powerful FMC
🌸Love Triangles
🌸Elemental Magic
🌸Secrets & Hidden Identities
🌸Spice
🌸Magical Festival Celebrations
🌸Touch Her & Die
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
November 29, 2023
I was an ARC reader and after reading the first book, I was thrilled to get through book 2! That said, this review would be the same whether I purchased the book myself or received the copy.
Where do I begin? I reread the first one directly before picking this one up so I was fresh in the plot. There were several moments that I was excited for the changes and definitely at least one “OH YES” moment. That said, the inconsistencies in the character’s personality from the first to the second was wild. She was sincerely a woman not to be trifled with when we left her in book 1. Why is she suddenly feeling like the character she was BEFORE her transformation?
Editing. Please, please. I’m not just talking grammatical! The book needed alpha readers before arc readers, unless we were supposed to send back corrections/notes. We (ARC) weren’t asked for notes, simply honest reviews. There were a couple of times I had to sit and reread the scene to understand what was happening simply because the flow was off. How did the character remove his one shirt twice?
The first book was a give and take with the reader and allowed you to form opinions and ideas as you read. There were moments of reader gratification and a reasonable amount of bad things happening to create a balance. This book felt like every single page you turn, you’re facing more bad. The few times a good thing happens, something else quickly takes over.
Without spoiling, a couple of BIG things I was looking forward to finding out about finally came to life! I had a lot of built up angst and am so glad we weren’t left hanging on those!
Overall, I am still excited to see where book 3 goes! I have a whole list of things foreshadowed throughout book 1 and 2 written down and am fully expecting book 3 to be an emotional read!
Where do I begin? I reread the first one directly before picking this one up so I was fresh in the plot. There were several moments that I was excited for the changes and definitely at least one “OH YES” moment. That said, the inconsistencies in the character’s personality from the first to the second was wild. She was sincerely a woman not to be trifled with when we left her in book 1. Why is she suddenly feeling like the character she was BEFORE her transformation?
Editing. Please, please. I’m not just talking grammatical! The book needed alpha readers before arc readers, unless we were supposed to send back corrections/notes. We (ARC) weren’t asked for notes, simply honest reviews. There were a couple of times I had to sit and reread the scene to understand what was happening simply because the flow was off. How did the character remove his one shirt twice?
The first book was a give and take with the reader and allowed you to form opinions and ideas as you read. There were moments of reader gratification and a reasonable amount of bad things happening to create a balance. This book felt like every single page you turn, you’re facing more bad. The few times a good thing happens, something else quickly takes over.
Without spoiling, a couple of BIG things I was looking forward to finding out about finally came to life! I had a lot of built up angst and am so glad we weren’t left hanging on those!
Overall, I am still excited to see where book 3 goes! I have a whole list of things foreshadowed throughout book 1 and 2 written down and am fully expecting book 3 to be an emotional read!
December 2, 2023
I received this as an ARC and unfortunately due to some family issues I’ve only just now been able to finish. Nevertheless, I was very excited for the release of this second book because I remember thoroughly enjoying the first one! I have mixed feelings about Freedom and Fire for a couple reasons. It seemed as though at some points there were scenes added purely for the trope, which weren’t necessary detracting from the story. But it definitely screamed “I see what you did there” because it was exactly like every other (for example) one bed trope. The other major thing I noticed about this particular book was how on the nose some scene read exactly like the movie Tangled. It might have been intentional it might not have been. But again it doesn’t detract from the overall plot, just a “huh. Interesting” type feel.
However… I absolutely LOVE this world/universe. I think it’s incredibly unique and fun and you never know what you’re going to learn about the characters or their powers. I feel like Aurelia’s character development ping ponged all over the place in this book, but I didn’t mind it. Because who developed as a person in on straight line? No one so why should our characters do the same?
The concept of this story will continue to bring my back for however many books this wonderful author wants to write!
Side note: I read the trigger warning before reading and spend the entire book screaming “ARE YOU GOING TO DIE!?” But alas, when I found out who in fact will not be in the next book I cried a few tears because he was in fact one of my fav characters 😩
However… I absolutely LOVE this world/universe. I think it’s incredibly unique and fun and you never know what you’re going to learn about the characters or their powers. I feel like Aurelia’s character development ping ponged all over the place in this book, but I didn’t mind it. Because who developed as a person in on straight line? No one so why should our characters do the same?
The concept of this story will continue to bring my back for however many books this wonderful author wants to write!
Side note: I read the trigger warning before reading and spend the entire book screaming “ARE YOU GOING TO DIE!?” But alas, when I found out who in fact will not be in the next book I cried a few tears because he was in fact one of my fav characters 😩
May 7, 2024
3.5⭐️
I loved the romance in this one - stuck between two brothers, a dynamic that makes me squirm in the best way. The author really takes you deep into Aurelia’s emotions as she wades into actually living a life for the first time. That’s what I think I like most about her story. You get a real sense of the internal struggle being locked away her entire life did to her coupled with her desire to have real experiences while being brave and terrified to do so.
With how much I love romance, there wasn’t actually anything exciting that happened until the end other than what was going on between Aurelia, Alec and Adan. Literally nothing monumental happened. Even the summit was super short and just an exchange of insults really. While certain things were “resolved”, I didn’t feel like there was any true progression to move to the next part of the story. The outside threat is still the threat of war, though no monumentally less so it just feels like the stakes are less now.
The book needs major editing though. There were sentences that just went unfinished, repeating words/phrases, sentences that just didn’t make sense, quotation marks just left out/forgotten so what someone was saying just bled into a normal sentence after. There was one where it started a new paragraph mid sentence. In the very beginning there’s even a mistake where it says the prince of water’s name but it’s clearly talking about the prince of air. Stuff like that just brings me right out of the story.
I loved the romance in this one - stuck between two brothers, a dynamic that makes me squirm in the best way. The author really takes you deep into Aurelia’s emotions as she wades into actually living a life for the first time. That’s what I think I like most about her story. You get a real sense of the internal struggle being locked away her entire life did to her coupled with her desire to have real experiences while being brave and terrified to do so.
With how much I love romance, there wasn’t actually anything exciting that happened until the end other than what was going on between Aurelia, Alec and Adan. Literally nothing monumental happened. Even the summit was super short and just an exchange of insults really. While certain things were “resolved”, I didn’t feel like there was any true progression to move to the next part of the story. The outside threat is still the threat of war, though no monumentally less so it just feels like the stakes are less now.
The book needs major editing though. There were sentences that just went unfinished, repeating words/phrases, sentences that just didn’t make sense, quotation marks just left out/forgotten so what someone was saying just bled into a normal sentence after. There was one where it started a new paragraph mid sentence. In the very beginning there’s even a mistake where it says the prince of water’s name but it’s clearly talking about the prince of air. Stuff like that just brings me right out of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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