Of Sea and Smoke

The Fireborn Epic #2

by Gillian Bronte Adams

He rides a seablood, a steed of salt and spray, born to challenge the tides.

Six years ago, the wrong brother survived, and nothing will ever convince Rafi Tetrani otherwise. But he is done running from his past, and from the truth. As civil war threatens Ceridwen’s tenuous rule in Soldonia, Rafi vows to fight the usurper sitting on the imperial throne of Nadaar, even if it means shouldering his brother’s responsibilities as the empire’s lost heir.

The stolen shipload of magical warhorses offers just the edge he needs. But the steeds have been demanded in ransom by the emperor’s ruthless assassin, and if Rafi hopes to raise a band of riders, he must first outwit his brother’s murderer.

Yet when his best efforts end in disaster, and an audacious raid sparks an empire-wide manhunt, even forging an unexpected alliance might not be enough to help Rafi turn the tides, let alone outrace the wave of destruction intent on sweeping them all away.

Seas boil and jungles burn in this tempestuous second installment of The Fireborn Epic as the outcast queen, captive missionary, and royal rebel strive to unearth the mysterious power that hungers for their world.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Christian Fiction, Christian Fantasy, Young Adult Fantasy, Horses, Adventure

512 pages, Hardcover

Published November 21, 2023

About the author

Gillian Bronte Adams is a horse-riding, wander-loving fantasy author, rarely found without a coffee in hand and rumored to pack books before clothes when she hits the road. Working in youth ministry left her with a passion for journeying alongside children and teens. (It also enhanced her love of coffee.) Now, she writes novels that follow outcast characters down broken roads, through epic battles, and onward to adventure. And at the end of a long day of typing, she can be found saddling her wild thing and riding off into the sunset, seeking adventures of her own (and more coffee).

She loves to connect with readers and fellow wanderers online through her website, Facebook page, and Instagram.

Reviews

[Amelie · Rating 5 out of 5]

She always clung doggedly to the belief that whatever wounds life dealt her, Aodh bore them upon his skin and would one day remake them into something new.

A masterful second tale to continue the Fireborn Epic series. There's no "second book syndrome" to be found in Of Sea and Smoke. The story is excellent. The author juggles the multiple points-of-view beautifully, keeping me focused and invested. The narrative balances action, inner musings, character conversations, and growth in a brilliant flow of captivating prose. And just as in the first book, the scenes build and build upon one another until they crash into a breathtaking climax.

These characters, too...I love these characters dearly, aching with them when they stumble and blowing a rallying war horn for them as their stumblings lead them ever nearer to restoration. Rafi wrestles mightily with himself, with the memories of his past and the temptation to run, but he remains a beacon of humor and grit who continually picks himself up and strives to run in the right direction. Ceridwen wrestles with failure and impossible expectations of herself, a deeply realistic figure of brokenness yet revealing a growing and unmistakable strength. They parallel one another, Ceridwen and Rafi, fire and water, smoke and waves. And Jakim...through his chapters, I felt his brokenhearted faith, his struggle to remind himself of what he knows must be true, his strain to cling to Aodh's hand even while adrift. (I can tell his full story is waiting to manifest itself fully in book three, and I'm so eager for it.)

We also see the messiness of revolution, the light of simple kindnesses, the burn of loss, the joy of hope, the tears of guilt, and the gravity of evil. We see that the stories we tell ourselves have power, that the nature of hatred is black and looming, and that gathering fellow riders around you for the road of life is far from a weakness. And I wrote down so many quotes speaking of Aodh's eternal scars, of Aodh's guiding hand, of Aodh's healing touch.

Three months feels like a long while before the coming of Of Dawn and Embers, but I will spend every minute in growing anticipation. Especially with this book's ending. (Maybe those three months will give me a little time to decide which ship I'm hoping will sail? And maybe I'll recover from that ending by then? And maybe these poor characters can take some serious rest in the medical tent in the meantime? Perhaps?)

The Fireborn Epic is one of my immediate recommendations for the high fantasy genre. It's fierce in courage and bright with hope. I haven't stopped thinking about it since I first read book one two years ago, and I'll be thinking about it for a long while to come.

🌊 heads-up for violence (which is sometimes gruesome but never gratuitous) and talk of an out-of-wedlock birth 🌊

[R.F. Gammon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most epic fantasy feels the need to choose between characters and plot. Adams effortlessly fuses both in an unforgettable story about love, sacrifice, and of course, magical horses.

I think the best way to put this is: I came for the magic horses and stayed for this amazing cast of characters.

Ceridwen is an amazing, beautiful, flawed heroine. This book did the best job I've ever seen of writing a girl who's a legend, brimming with power--but she's still broken and flawed and small and human. I don't want to name drop, but we all know there are WAY too many books out there about queens of war-torn kingdoms with fire powers. This one is different, babes. I need y'all to understand how different this book is. Ceridwen, specifically. She's brilliant. The love she pours out on her people...y'all. I cry. She's so beautiful and amazing and just...yeah.

And then Rafi. RAFI. I freaking love him and he makes me so happy. I love the juxtapositions of cultures we get in this book. I won't spoil anything, but OH MY GOSH. Characters who wre already awesome now have new dynamics together, and I can't wait to see all three mains work togethe to take the (absolutely atrocious) villains down in book 3.

LIAM. MY BABY. HE IS MY SMOL BEAN AND I ADORE HIM. that's all.

I'm so glad I preordered this one. I can't wait to have it in my hands in all its 500+ page glory. If you haven't read this series, you're missing out. I loved this book. Gillian is making art with this series.

Disclaimer: I am a member of Gillian Bronte Adams' street team and received an ARC of this book. That didn't affect my review at all and no review was required.

[Sharon Loves to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Reread thoughts✨

The characters deepen; the plot thickens; the stakes accelerate; the betrayals crush; the light shines; a world upends.

My heart cannot wait for Of Dawn and Embers!!🥹💜🥹💜🥹

✨Original thoughts✨

What was that ending??🤯😳🤯😳 I am in shock.

I am off to go see when Of Dawn and Embers comes out…🏃‍♀️

These books are fabulous, and I highly recommend them!

[Mary Emma Sivils · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great installment in The Fireborn Epic! I think I enjoyed this more than book 1 because I felt like I was getting to know the characters and the world much better. Rafi remains my favorite, but I'm excited at the way all of the main characters' storylines are beginning to tie together.

Can't wait for book 3!

[Kaytlin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ack!!!!!!!! *runs around screaming and fangirling and just....* Ack! That ending is going to be the death of me....man I am so upset right, torn, on pins and needles! But I LOVED this book!!!! Go read Of Fire and Ash because this is a series you don't want to miss!

Characters:
Oh, where to start? There are so many good ones!!!! I guess I'll start with the POV characters and derail from there. There may or may not be a rant about the awesomeness of Finnian ahead....lol....
Cerdiwen (who's name I say wrong despite the author saying it's pronounced with a hard c, sorry already said it was a soft c... not able to retrain myself.) She is sooooo cool! I really found myself connecting with her a lot in this book and her struggle of trying not to fail. Feel ya, girl. I hate failing, though I just break down and cry where Cerdiwen gets up and tries again despite her fears. I loved her character even more this time!
Jakim, I way under sold his character in book 1 and absolutely adore this Scroll now! He's so sweet and trusting, and his faith and relentless pursuit of what Adodh (God) would have him do is inspiring on so many levels!
Rafi!!!! He might just be my favorite POV just because I love his humor, and the inner turmoil is so great! He wants to run from his mistakes and problems, which is another thing I can relate to... not being brave enough to do what I know needs to be done. His growth in this story was beautiful!
Finnian!!!! My man! I love this guy!!! Ekkkk! I have nothing intelligible to say....lol....I love him! His hound Cu his Shadower Sif! I love them! Everything about Finnian! And just the fact that he never, not matter how hard it gets, gives up on Cerdiwen!!!! I want a Finnian!!!!
Sidecharacters I adore: Markham, Nef, Moc, Lowen, Sef, Iakki, Jasri, Liam, and Iona, to name a few! So many! Oh, Eshur!!! Nee fav!

Themes:
Rising and riding again no matter how many times or how hard life huts us and throws us down. That we can't run from the problems and fears inside us, we have to rise and face them. With God's help, we can rise and ride again and again no matter how many times we fall because falling is not failing!

Romance:
Touches! Which I love! I am so rooting for some charries!

Language:
Nope. Soldonians say Shadows or Shades, Flames, etc, to go with their steeds. And the Que say Ches-shu, which is one of their gods...

Magic:
Sahak's up to something, but so far, all that us represented is darkness.
And then fantasy elements such as HORSE THAT BREATH FIRE!!!!

Overall:
My mind is such a tangle... I loved this book on so many levels! It is so good, and I can't wait to have a copy in my hands (physical copy that is) to put on the shelf beside book 1! (Awesome cover, anyone?)
Gillian Bronte Adams has skillfully woven another fantastic fantasy adventure with humor, danger, and moments that will make you cringe and others that will make you want to rip you hair out in fear for the characters (or frustration). This series is a must-read, in my opinion!
Recommended 14+

[Stephanie Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shades.

Flames.

All other manner of Fireborn exclamations—this book deserves them all. In a very good way, I promise.

I loved the first book so much (Of Fire and Ash) that I signed up for the Outriders, Gillian Bronte Adams's launch team. Y'all, I can't express how much fun the whole journey has been, from the first book to a quiz to determine what type of magical warhorse I'd bond with (I'm a shadowrider, and I love Finnian, so I feel super pumped about this), to the epilogue of this book, I was and am hooked.

I adore Ceridwen. She's brash, bold, and so very stubborn, so I felt like the level of character growth matched her personality well. I'm a bit stubborn myself, and sometimes, it just takes a while for things to sink in. We see her concern grow for the people under her; she develops more of a servant-leader mindset; and she's loyal to a fault. Seriously. But I love her, and I love seeing her face more challenges and grow into the leader wartime Soldonia needs.

Rafi is a charming rascal, and he sure charmed his way into my heart through these pages. While his struggles with running are still apparent, we see him recognize his shortcomings and start working to overcome them. We see him become bold and brave; someone people would willingly go into battle after rather than question his past or his name.

Jakim seems unwavering. His decisions don't always make sense, but when we look at his commitment to go where Aodh wants him, we can view them in a new light. I love the sense of calm and kindness he brings to a dark time in Soldonia. I also love seeing him interact with Finnian. (I won't say more than that to avoid spoiling the story.)

Of Sea and Smoke was a bit darker than the first book. To me, this made sense. We don't always see the depths of evil that lie behind the actions of people who do dark and twisted things. So, there were only hints of it in Of Fire and Ash. But in this book, Adams peels back the curtains and gives that darkness more shape, that evil more of a face. Still, Rafi's humor, Iakki's spirit, and Finnian's dry wit bring levity where it's needed in this epic tale of woe and war and wandering.

From the first page to the last, Of Sea and Smoke is a grand and daring adventure that leaves the reader a bit breathless and wondering how in the world our most beloved fictional friends are going to make it. We also get a deeper glimpse into the sacred bond between the riders and warhorses and see that often in life, we have to "rise and ride again."

But more than the themes, the plot, and the characters, this story made me feel. If you’ve read the first book, it’s no secret that both Ceridwen and Rafi had each lost a brother. And I actually received and downloaded the eArc for this book just a few short hours before my dad called me to tell me that I too had lost my brother; I too would know what it was like to grieve and question and wonder and even feel misunderstood by those who had not experienced this kind of loss.

Although I wasn’t with my brother when he died and have no feelings of responsibility, I found myself wrestling with some of the same questions as Ceridwen and Rafi. Loss changes us irreparably, and I feel like Adams held such healing space in Of Sea and Smoke for the characters—and readers—to explore what it means to grieve and yet live.

Beautiful story. Unforgettable characters. Amazing author. 

And I cannot wait to read the Fireborn Epic Book 3! 

[Reese Songbird · Rating 1 out of 5]

Why I canceled my preorder of “Of Sea and Smoke” by Gillian Bronte Adams
Of Fire and Ash, book one of the Fireborn Epic series was good. I enjoyed it, though it had some gory or slightly disturbing moments, but it wasn’t constant, and I could ignore it. But with Of Sea and Smoke, from chapter one, it was not like book one. It made me cringe or skim the pages. The only thing I liked about Of Sea and Smoke was Finnian, a side character who is an amazing person and literally, if he was the main character, or even had a POV, I would have kept reading. But no. It follows, Ceridwen, Rafi, and Jakim. Now Ceridewen isn’t bad all the time, but she had zero character development, and treats people badly. Jakim isn’t bad either, but he’s not super interesting. Rafi…to sum it up, he’s one of the main characters I dislike the most out of all the books I’ve read. And once again, no character development. The plot consisted of: battle, death, anger, battle, anger, death, gore, torture, death, battle. There was no peace, not even for more than a paragraph. The only scenes I enjoyed were only when Finnian was in them, and that was the whole reason. There were many more darker moments in this book then in the previous one, and much more descriptions of injuries, torture, and death.
Now, I like fantasy, and epic fantasy, but this pushed my limits. Fantasy is the genre that I don’t usually stray from because other genres just don’t hold the great characters or plot most of the time (There are exceptions of course, but generally this is what I find)
I was a part of The Outriders, Gillian’s street team for this book because I liked book one so much. And I had been looking forward to reading this one. It had been my most anticipated read of the fall. I squealed when I got the ARC copy and I started it immediately. But I found it affected my mental health, I lashed out at people because I was mad at the book. And so I had to take a break from it. When I went back, I skimmed the rest of the book, and found there had been no character development and the plot had just kind of remained the same. I was very disappointed, and then read the epilogue. Now if you’ve read the first book, you know there were mentions of a evil being and priests for it, but it wasn’t heavily discussed, and was easy to move on from, but in book two, the evil thing is brought up in the epiloge and the reveal shocked me. Why Gillian would have done this, confuses me. To me, its for shock factor. It was unnecessary and creeped me out. I decided then to DNF the book and cancel my preorder, even though it pained me. And I’ve delayed putting out this review, because I don’t want to hurt Gillian, or people who like this book, but I signed up to honestly review this, and that’s what I did. If you have any further questions regarding why, please comment below and I’ll answer. Again, it makes me disappointed that I even have to write this review, but it had to be done.

[Elisabeth (Bets) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Epic Christian Fantasy

You wanted to talk about mystery? How about a power that looked like weakness, and weakness that looked like strength?

Rating: 5 stars

Do I recommend it? Yes!

This book took me a little longer than I would’ve liked but it’s not the book's fault. It’s the problem with being busy and having to adult. This book was incredible! I loved it and it was a rollercoaster.

We got to see characters from the previous book grow and mature so much! I loved it! I loved seeing new connections made (tho there is one that concerns me just a tad…) and new relationships formed.

I feel like I know these characters. Gillian Bronte Adams is an incredible author and anyone who says otherwise clearly has been led astray by false ideas, and doesn’t like deep, relatable, and sometimes funny characters. 🤭

And man, the bad guys are still bad. 💔 There are lots of things that happen in this book that make me so mad. Or sad. One or the other. But there are also many sweet moments, and moments of joy and hope.

I can’t wait for book 3 because I want the ends tied up and I want to see all my (ok fine, Gillian’s) characters get happy endings.

The ending was not the same as the last book's ending. It left me kinda stunned (in a different way than book 1). But it also didn’t feel left hanging open. For a standalone it would’ve been a horrible ending but it closed this book off well.

And I didn’t say much about this in my last review but, THE HORSES! Can I describe how much I LOVE these horses?! I’m a horse girl, always have been, probably always will be. And I love magical horses. If I had my pick I would want to be a Stormrider, because what is cooler than riding a flying horse?! Or… dare I say…? Nah that’s actually a spoiler, so we won’t say it. 🤭

Oh and one more thing, I'm picky when it comes to audiobooks, but this one is incredible. Gillian does a great job narrating it and I truly enjoyed the audiobook just as much as reading the physical book, which rarely happens for me.

Just... go read this. Or listen to it.

She stared at him. “Do you take anything seriously?”
“I take food seriously. Humor too.”
“You take humor seriously?”
“If I don’t, who will?”

Content:

Language- 0/5
Violence- 2/5 *
Sexual- 0/5

*just war violence. I do recall a few scenes in the book that made my stomach tighten from the description but nothing too much and once again, my level of tolerance for gore is RIDICULOUS. As in, I don’t have one. 😂


And, to the author if you see this.
Thank you, Gillian, for the hard work and time you put into this book! I loved it so much and can’t wait for book 3! Keep up the great work! And pleeeease, I’m begging you not to take a certain storyline in a certain direction. You can’t do that to us. You can’t. Actually you can, but you won’t, right?

[Madisyn Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC.

I was provided an ARC copy of this book through the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Nathaniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this series is such a treat. Gillian has a power in her words. These books are so well written. I care about the plot, but I would read this writing in anything. It's just so smooth and well done. Looking forward to the third installment.

Also I read the last fifty pages with Club Classics by Charli xcx on repeat and the vibe was hilarious. I had a great time.

[Anne Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this as much as I did the first, if not more. As always, not a massive fan of the girl boss warrior, but it is what it is. I enjoyed the increased focus on Jakim and Rafi. Can’t wait for the third book! I’m looking forward to how the author wraps it up.

[M.C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for this book for over a year.

I read Of Fire and Ash last summer, expecting a cool story with an interesting fantasy world. I did not expect to become so irrevocably invested in this phenomenal universe, to the extent that I actually pre-ordered this sequel as soon as it became available and then joined the author's street team so I could get an early review copy. I was so excited to start reading, and so nervous that it wouldn't live up to my expectations.

As it turned out, I needn't have worried.

Characters: The three POV characters we came to know and love in OFAA are back, bringing with them an increased whirlwind of excitement and intrigue. Ceridwen is still as impulsive and hot-headed as ever, but she's growing. If she reminded me of Éowyn in the first book, she gave off more Rings of Power Galadriel vibes in this one. She wants so desperately to do right by her people, and since fighting is the only way she knows how to do that, she'll fight until she dies. I'm still a little scared of her, but she's softening, and it's so good to see.
Rafi is as amazing as before. I loved getting more of his backstory, especially concerning his relationship with Delmar. Sibling dynamics are always my favorite in stories, and this was no exception! Rafi resists growth so much, but he's making progress anyway. And his sense of humor made me laugh out loud several times.
As for Jakim... Eep, what exciting things this book holds for him! He's still such a sweetheart, and his twist at the end is perfection. I can't wait to see how his part in the story concludes!

Content: There's a decent amount of violence in the book, on the same level as OFAA. (So if you made it through that one, you'll be fine here, too.) People are injured, sometimes tortured in brutal ways. A characters loses an eye off-page. A sadistic character revels in inflicting slow, painful torment. There's a good amount of blood and frequent discussions about wounds getting infected. The worst part, though, is when a character cares for a stone-eye tiger's sores that are oozing pus. Really gross...
There are a couple of hints at romances. Two characters seem like they almost kiss. A non-POV couple kiss.
There are several instances of fantasy cursing (blazes, shades, etc.).

Writing: Adams' writing is excellent. This book is massive, but I tore through it, eager to keep reading and get to the end of this magnificent story so I could finally breathe easily again. I laughed, I gasped, I even almost cried a little. So much that was foreshadowed in the first book finds it payoff here, and it's amazing.
The ending, though... I'm still a bit mad about that cliffhanger. I literally flung my Kindle onto my bed after finishing it. How can I be expected to wait at least another year to find out what happens next??? *sobs*

Summary: This book is even better than its predecessor! OFAA set the stage, and OSAS gets the pieces moving. It's all heading toward what I know will be an epic climax, and this all-important second act leaves us satisfied with an excellent story in its own right while ensuring we stay hungry for the finale. Fans of The Fireborn Epic will be thrilled with this sequel!

[Tabitha Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished this a few minutes ago. Does this mean it's a good time to write a review? Probably not. HOWEVER... I'm doing it anyway because WHY WAS THIS SO GOOD?

I won't lie... There were times when I was in the trenches while reading this, and I was seriously thinking it would be two stars at one point. On reflection, I think it's because unless you're very focused on the details, some things may be confusing. There were numerous side characters in this book that I knew I was supposed to feel attached to as a reader... but it just never happened. The only side characters that stood out distinctly were Nef, Iakki, Moc, (somewhat Sev)

My girl Ceridwen? She's been through the RINGER.

My boy Rafi? He's been through the RINNNGGERRR.

My boy Jakim? He can't catch a break.

I have so many thoughts swirling. I actually can't wait to read the last book. If you get into this series just be warned that the slow moments are SLOW... but important bits of information are dropped during the slow moments so don't skim. Honestly? This is Epic Fantasy at its finest. :)

[Cassandra Hamm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really ended up enjoying this one. Gorgeous writing, elemental horses, complex characters, trauma and emotions and tragedy. Gillian Brontë Adams does not pull her punches. I especially love Rafi, Ceridwen, and Finnian. I don’t care as much for Jakim, but I do like the Joseph parallels. I thought for a minute there was going to be a love triangle with Ceridwen, Finnian, and Rafi, but it looks like there is only friendship between Ceridwen and Rafi, and I honestly really like that (especially since I’m a big fan of the ship between Ceridwen and Finnian). I did get a little confused by all the characters sometimes, but it IS an epic fantasy, so that’s to be expected. Really looking forward to the final book. Also, the audiobook is narrated by the author, which is very cool!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s hard to find a series where the second book is just as good, or even better, than the first. But Gillian Brontë Adams has once again crafted a masterpiece that is as rich as Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.
Friendships and loyalties are severely tested, and the beautiful truths Gillian draws from the incredibly difficult ways her characters are tested are so encouraging and hope-bringing.
This is a story that made me want to shriek in agony at the fact that it was over and now I have to wait for book three, but it also brought such light and courage into my heart.
Onward, my friends.
Always onward.

[Jane Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had my heart pounding and my eyeballs straining late into the night to read just one more chapter because I simply couldn't put it down. Everything goes from bad to worse, and yet there is such hope and light and beauty and truth shining through these pages. Gillian Bronte Adams is a master, and this series has my heart.

[Crystal Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, this book was epic! So many twists and turns. The pacing was perfect and the characters went through so much. The ups and downs were gripping and the story is fantastic. I feel like I'm just rambling, but without giving away spoilers, all I can say is it was SO GOOD.
If you like gripping, emotional reads set in a lush setting, with lots of magical steeds and complicated characters, you need to try Gillian's Fireborn series.

*I received an ebook for my honest review

[A.M. Reynwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all, I am head-over-heels for this book! I had the privilege of reading an eARC of the book, and I can tell one and all with full confidence that it is an outstanding continuation of the sweeping story begun in OF FIRE AND ASH.

From page 1 I was blown away by the heartfelt storytelling, attention to detail in the characters—their depth and varied personalities even among the side characters, the Sanderson-level worldbuilding, and the rollercoaster of action and emotion as the plot got thicker, stakes got higher, and the characters were brought to and beyond the brink of their limits facing increasingly harrowing challenges both within and without. Their personal journeys are what drive this story to the heart.

With themes of found family, courage, reconciliation, sacrifice, perseverance, faithfulness, and unquenchable hope, this book is a nonstop adventure across windswept landscapes, thick jungles, vast seas, brittle relationships, and plumbs the depths of the human heart. It also has a lot of delicious food, which I can always appreciate, and the ever-loveable humor of my favorite juggling prince. I loved the human-animal bonds in all their forms, as well, and I cannot gush about the thread of legend without spoiling the thrilling surprise.

The scale and scope, intricate story threads, gripping battles, and heartrending characters are all woven together with excellent craft, and if I could say nothing else about this book, this series, it's that this is the epitome of epic fantasy. What it was always meant to be.

[Haley Durfee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. Gillian Bronte Adams has done it again in book 2 of the Fireborn Epic. Though Of Sea and Smoke starts slow, it crescendos to a fiery climax...and left me anxious for book 3! I was literally staring in shock and amazement during a certain chapter at the end.
Ceridwen & Finnian are perfect for each other, and Rafi is such a memorable character. And Jakim! I loved seeing his character grow so much in this book.
10/10 recommend for fantasy and horse lovers.

Content:
Quite a bit of violence (battle and torture). Nothing is violent for violence's sake, but it could be a little disturbing to some.

**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**

[Samara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Screaming. Crying. This was the greatest book I've ever read.





Pre-Review:

HOLY COW WE HAVE A COVER AND IT IS THE MOST GORGEOUS THING I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Coralie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahh, okay! I adore these books. Rereading the first was delightful and finally getting to the sequel was just as epic as I'd hoped.

Y'all know I love the sea, so I was super stoked for this cover and sequel. Plus, who doesn't love Rafi! I know I didn't get to this one when it came out, even though I pre-ordered it. But, honestly, I'm kind of glad. Cause, y'all, if I'd had to wait for the third book after the cliffhanger of this one, I'd have gone insane. But let's back up first.

Adams continues to rotate between the perspectives of Rafi, Ceridwen, and Jakim, weaving a tight plot that compels the reader ever onward. Much like the first, this was just plain hard to put down. Some books that swap between POVs can be exasperating because you just like one character or plot thread more than the other(s), but each of these POVs are equally compelling and enjoyable. Every time she'd leave us on her horrible chapter cliff hangers and swap perspectives, I had half a second of "Noo! I need to know more" but immediately remembered why I'd said the exact same thing about the current perspective we were diving back into. There are no slow or boring parts anywhere! That is a fantastic feat, if you ask me.

Also! Good GRAVY! The first book was epic and awesome and we loved all the characters, world, and super intriguing threads, but this book got real in some places. I didn't think it was possible to love this story more than I did after reading the first one. But this story takes stuff to the next level. It's like we dug in deeper, but in a completely natural way that doesn't diminish the first book in any way. Some stuff went down that definitely had me way more invested than I should have been. I can't say more than that, but man. I adore this story.

Much like the first story, I just love the worldbuilding of this. The elemental horses are each so cool and I love how we got to dive deeper into some of the other types of riders in this story. Both steeds and riders take an unprecedented turn that I can't say too much about, but I will say I really, really enjoyed both Rafi and Ceridwen's threads and how they intertangled in this one.

We get to see more of the elusive Dawnling, too. And I have to say thematically Jakim's story went to all the most exciting places. His culture and background were intriguing in the first story, but again, we go deeper here and now I'm absolutely invested. There are remnants of the Joseph story that I'm excited to unwrap, but also I was most pleasantly surprised to see the development of the faith of Aodh. I enjoyed that in the previous story and connected with it, but in this story the elements hit deeper (I know I keep saying that but I don't know how else to put it!) and connected with me on more than an "I appreciate this in the story" level and on more of a personal faith level. I'm really, really, really looking forward to seeing how that becomes integral to the story in the finale.

The themes of redemption, fulfilling one's potential, leadership, and nobility ring all the bells for me. There's such aspiration to what is good and true amidst such suffering. Adams handles the balance of the broken world with the hope of redemption and reconciliation in such a delicate way that touches the core of my heart. I'm almost afraid to hope for the good, as Ceridwen is, and yet, I do see it and can't help but feeling so incredibly encouraged by the journey of these characters. The suffering and loss, grief and sorrow they carry, witness, and wrestle with is such a beautiful reflection of our own world and lives. I cannot wait to see how this resolves, and yet, I don't want it to end. This is truly one of my very favorite series.

Also, that ending. Y'all. I cannot wait to see what kind of tangled up web we have to sort out in the finale. I feel like I'm on the precipice and things could either go really, realllllly well. Or they could be devastatingly disappointing. I have faith. Adams has brought us this far. She's built the suspense in a brilliant way. Weaving an incredibly engaging world, characters, plot, and themes. She can pull us to the finish line. This is gonna be good. I can feel it.

Content: there's a very, very subtle romance - enough to give you someone to root for, but not enough to really say there's any in the story itself - no swearing, and some fantasy violence (story's set during an intercontinental war), but nothing horribly graphic. It's tactfully done, though there are some mild descriptions of wounds and etc. I'd probably recommend this one for 15+

[Jess (Jessie’s World of Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars 🌟

“This is the first lesson every rider must learn: falling is not failing. Riding is getting up again. Again and again.”

“There's no shame in having someone haul you back to your feet again, Ceridwen. That's what we do. We rise and ride again, but we don't have to do it alone.”

What a wild, intense ride!
Gillian Bronte Adams's ability to plot such twisty, expansive books is quite impressive. I went through a bit of a reading slump during the middle of the book, and all the battles got a little tiring to read at times. However the ending was so crazy that I breezed through it. There's so much that happened in this book that I want to talk about but can't because of spoilers. If you loved the first book, then you'll definitely love this one!

Was anyone else extremely nervous about Finnian? I was so worried that he'd die. Also, Ceridwen needs to take a very long vacation. The poor girl can't even catch her breath before disaster strikes!

Content Note: Although I generally don't recommend or read violent books, this series can get quite violent (though not in a gratuitous way) at times, so keep that in mind please. This series has no spice/smut.

[Hailey Huntington · Rating 5 out of 5]

"This is the first lesson every rider must learn: falling is not failing. Riding is getting up again. Again and again."

****

Get ready for another epic ride in Of Sea and Smoke.

Once again, the worldbuilding was fantastic. I loved getting to spend more time in Soldonia and Nadar. Gillian has richly, and deeply developed her settings. There are so many things about it that I love. If I could go into her books (and not die), I would totally explore her worlds.

The characters continued to be great. Their personalities, voices, backstories, arcs--I loved getting to delve deeper into them in Of Sea and Smoke. And the hints of a certain budding romance made me happy. 😄 I had been the tiniest bit afraid while reading that there might be a love triangle, but thankfully that didn't happen.

There were points during the novel where I was going to actually be mad at Gillian if she killed off certain characters. Thankfully though, she didn't. (But other characters. . . 😶)

As she did in Of Fire and Ash, Gillian continues to tackle deep, hard themes, and her characters really wrestle with them. I loved the character growth that happened in Of Sea and Smoke, especially with Jakim. And I look forward to all that's going to happen in book three!

Once again, I'd just note the level of violence for more sensitive readers. Because Of Sea and Smoke is an epic fantasy novel dealing with worldwide stakes, there are a number of battle scenes and mentions of war-related violence. Like in Of Fire and Ash, it's never overly graphic or gory or excessive. But if you're a more sensitive or younger reader, I'd consider whether or not the fighting and violence might be too much.

Of Sea and Smoke is not a small book. Yet Gillian once again has crafted an epic, masterful tale that's sure to sweep away readers, touch their hearts, and leave them ready for the finale.

Cautions: light romance; semi-graphic, frequent heavy violence

[Belle Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHHH THAT CLIFFHANGER/TWIST *falls over* I may have started freaking out a little but in a good way- good grief-

This one definitely took me a while to get into (mostly because I don't like reading ebooks but I did it for a Gillian Bronte Adams book so that's gotta tell you something) but once I did, man, was this a ROLLERCOASTER. I'm pretty picky about my epic fantasy (with my allergy to boringness and long quests) but this is one series I've also been able to dive right into and really be gripped with. And fortunately, the second book lived up to the first one.

Rafi and Ceridwen's journey's continued in interesting and new ways that really pushed them as characters–one thing that's always been so interesting to me is how these main two characters really mirror each other in a lot of ways in this series while also being VERY different. I think I fell even more in love with Finnian (if him and Ceridwen aren't otp I think i'm going to throw a fit) so that's obviously a win all around. And Jakim was as goodhearted and adorable as usual.

Definitely a bit darker than the first one, but still not graphic or adult in any way–the characters are just put in some more hopeless situations and have to figure out how to deal with that.

Overall, so so good and so over-the-top excited for the next one!!

[Camille Mosemann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blew me away. It was packed with even more action and even higher stakes than the first book, which I didn’t think was possible!! I was immersed into this world in a way that I haven’t felt since I experienced Lord of the Rings for the first time! Please, please read this series! I have no other words to describe my love for these two books!!!!

[joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

bro… you can’t leave me hanging like that 😭😭😭 I swear. waiting for the next book will be the death of me

[Lavay Byrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shades! I was not ready for that cliffhanging shock!
WOWEEE I'm so glad my character friends and I made it! This was such a stormer of a ride! Full of wars, treachery, and shocking revelations after another! My poor freinds were struggling and fighting for their countries, it felt as if things were getting worse and worse! And yet... that one arrival of a beautiful, sacred solborn horse changed everything! That Aodh was still control... even if we can't see it.

In this sequel, we mostly follow Rafi and his seablood steed Ghost as he struggles to rally the Que rebellion... overcome the demons of his past. (I still love his attempts to bring humor!) But we also return to Soldonia with Ceridwen in her own struggle to unite her people while fighting against traitors... especially when she learns a shocking truth about Rodhri. And then there's Jakim, still struggling with his faith in Aodh while enslaved in the Soldonian traitors.

You can see all three of them are struggling. Struggling against enemies and the demons of their pasts and inner selves. But what made this story all the more beautiful is the eventual interactions! Rafi and Ceridwen have so much in common-- despite Rafi's easy-going manner often grates on her nervous. And the quick freindship with Jakim and Finian! All four of them, and even other familiar characters like Liam, Markam, Iakki, and then brand-new ones all shone throughout the pages!

But I'll never forget that moving scene... involving light... Aodh... and Ceridwen's brand! (I've said too much, but.... it was just beautiful!!)

Now... thanks to that frustrating cliff-hanger... I'll have to wait for MONTHS for Of Dawn and Embers ... but it's definitely going to be worth it! Especially that Jakim FINALLY has a beautiful steed!

Rise and Ride again!

[Books and Things · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uh...uh...WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO SAY AFTER THAT ENDING???!!!!! DELMAR IS ALIVE??? AND HE'S THE VOICE??? JUST....WHAT?????? My brain chemistry is forever altered by that plot twist.

(Okay, to be fair, I did guess there was a chance Delmar might be alive, BUT I DID NOT GUESS HE WAS THE VOICE. I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE FINAL BOOK.)

I originally considered giving this 4.75 stars based on pages 300-400. I was getting annoyed by Rafi (if you can believe it) because he wouldn't tell Ceridwen about his ancestry, even after she had told him all about her past. And I just prefer reading about Ceridwen when she is in Soldonia, to be honest. It felt strange to see her in Nadaar, and the chapters with her and Rafi felt like the same thing over and over again. I think if Jakim was put in between them more, it would have been easier to get through. But the last few chapters more than made up for it, so it's getting 5 stars.

Speaking of Jakim, I don't have anything against him, but I feel like he and Finnian and Rhodri's group found the dawnling too easily/quickly. Like...these are supposed to be a nearly extinct breed, yet they happen to find it right away when they use the relic. Just a little nitpick of mine.

And...Nef? I'm still not sure what I think. I dislike him still, but the lesson I learned from his death will forever stick with me.

Even after all of that, I still think I liked Of Fire and Ash more, but maybe that's because Ceridwen is my favorite character. This was still an amazing sequel though, and I can't wait for Of Dawn and Embers to release.

[Danae Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. I absolutely love Gillian Bronte Adams’ writing style. I can be a bit particular when it comes to my precious epic fantasy genre, but she writes in such an engaging and polished way with great pacing and prose (never too dialogue-heavy, which I so appreciate!) The continued world-building in this sequel was vivid, and I absolutely loved the spiritual references (Aodh, Bearer of the Eternal Scars❤️). The ending of this book had me totally shook and wishing for book 3 already. Well done, and thank you for these stories! **I was provided with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.**

[Emily Hutnyak · Rating 5 out of 5]

"'...Go, Rafi. Run.' And with those words echoing with the cry of his brother so many years before, Rafi ran." - Of Sea and Smoke, pg. 430

Welcome to part two of my review of The Fireborn Epic, covering the second book in this epic fantasy trilogy! I'm specifically discussing the MCs and the themes in this review series, so if you haven't seen my review of Of Fire and Ash, book 1, you may want to check that out before reading this one, since it's a continuation of what I talked about there.

Please note: There will be spoilers for book 1 and some spoilers for book 2 in this review. Spoilers for book 2 have been hidden.

Without further ado, let's pick up where we left off!

"Burn brightly, Ceridwen." - Of Sea and Smoke, pg. 474

When we left Ceridwen in book 1, she was facing down a traitor claiming regency of her country in full firerider style, leading factions she'd finally earned the hesitant trust of. She stopped running from her identity and is hesitantly stepping into her place as queen, though her guilt-ridden, reckless tendencies still hinder her. When everything she thought she knew about the traitor challenging her is turned on its head and betrayal strikes, Ceridwen is captured and taken across the sea. Trapped adrift from her struggling, war-torn country, the only way she may be able to make a difference is to break codes of honor and help a small rebel band deep in the jungle. But after a newfound friend, Rafi, is revealed to be hiding a huge secret from her, can she look beyond her prejudice and pain to rise and ride again in a blaze defying the darkness, or will her fiery passion be smothered by bitterness?

Though Ceridwen's continued journey, we see the difficulty of healing when the world is determined to wound you over and over again and the quiet, priceless courage of choosing to trust even when you've been burned.

"'The Tetrani prince lives,' he cried, 'and the demon-steeds ride with him. Down with the usurper!'" - Of Sea and Smoke, pg. 123

Rafi has settled among the rebels, finding his place and the courage to embrace his true identity as the long-lost prince. With desperate bravery, he leads the capture of a group of mythical warhorses from across the sea and navigates secret negotiations with nobles he can't stand. But when his eventual capture by the king's assassin allows him to meet and free Ceridwen tal Desmond and bring her back to the rebel hideout, he slips back into his old habits. Not wanting to risk their blossoming friendship or her willingness to help by admitting he's the nephew of her greatest enemy, he pretends to be no more than a rebel until disaster strikes, trapping his friends in an ambush and fracturing Ceridwen's trust. Can he admit his wrongs and prove he is more than the reputation he continues to run from, or will his reluctance to face his true identity cost him everyone he cares about?

In Rafi's continuing journey, we see the cost of clinging to old fears and lies and how sometimes, it is only when we stop fleeing the things that scare us that we find true, unshakeable courage.

"'No, you don't understand,' he insisted. 'I think that's why I'm here. I think Aodh wants me to find the dawnling.'" - Of Sea and Smoke, pg. 406

Jakim has upheld his promise to deliver the king's signet ring to Ceridwen, an action that gave hope to a broken nation and branded him as someone of interest to the traitors. When he is captured and used by Ceridwen's enemies, he resolves to learn from his past mistakes and not give in to bitterness and despair. Instead, he searches for ways to give hope to those around him even when his own welfare is balanced on the point of a knife. When his determination to be neutral and only be on the side of his god in the chaos around him becomes impossible, whose side will he choose- the side he feels drawn to help, fueled by courage, faith, and hope that all of this has a greater purpose, or the side that will kill him if he doesn't keep his head down and obey their demands?

In Jakim's continuing journey, we see the beauty of holding tightly to battle-won faith and hope and how small acts of virtue, even if they are costly, are worth taking.

It's very rare that I love the second book in a trilogy more than the first, but Of Sea and Smoke has pulled that off flawlessly for me. Getting to see the characters I love finally meet and interact with each other cued much reader joy, and while the tension and stakes never dropped, there were so many sweet and downright wholesome moments sprinkled all throughout (the scenes involving tea-tasting, anyone??) that at points, it felt like an eye of the storm where I got to know and care about the characters even deeper before it left me on a cliffhanger and I knew everything was going to go down in book 3.

That wraps up my review of Of Sea and Smoke, book 2 in The Fireborn Epic! Stay tuned for book 3's review... it's going to be a wild ride.