What do you think?
Rate this book
Firefax
" I would advise you, young man, to take care around anyone with the surname Firefax. I know not if the rumors be true that they be king killers, but they are, without any doubt, a dangerous family."
Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .
The world’s oldest family of high-profile assassins, the Firefaxes, have been killing off dignitaries—and being well-compensated to do so—for centuries. The family is thrown into turmoil by their patriarch’s death and the return of their cunning, cruel prodigal, Murdoch. With their father dead, Murdoch is the only one who knows where the Firefax wealth is, kept on a secret island. But two competing intelligence networks in the American Revolution are bent on tracking down the legendary treasure to end the war, whatever the cost. However, these spy networks may have met their match in this wily, dysfunctional family of killers.
Legend tells of a city of gold on a phantom island. The wealth of that city could end the American Revolution. But the only person who knows the island’s location is the world’s deadliest assassin. And he’s not giving up that secret without a fight . . .
The world’s oldest family of high-profile assassins, the Firefaxes, have been killing off dignitaries—and being well-compensated to do so—for centuries. The family is thrown into turmoil by their patriarch’s death and the return of their cunning, cruel prodigal, Murdoch. With their father dead, Murdoch is the only one who knows where the Firefax wealth is, kept on a secret island. But two competing intelligence networks in the American Revolution are bent on tracking down the legendary treasure to end the war, whatever the cost. However, these spy networks may have met their match in this wily, dysfunctional family of killers.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
8 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Read
February 5, 2024Rtc
November 25, 2023
This book was a surprise. It was a beautiful, miraculous surprise and I am broken. I loved this story. Even though in the beginning I was feeling like the plot is weak and the world building is non-existent, both of which are actually true but here we are. What then caused me to give it five stars when I was planning to give it two. The characters, the relationships, the pathos, the pain, the emotions, everything wholly unexpected. I had literally picked this one at a whim but I am grateful I did. Even though it hurts like hell. To say I was hooked would be a brutal understatement. ai was besotted with these siblings, these brothers, their complicated chemistry, the love, the hatred and the transition between the two.
I know I have a great number of regrets. An impossible number of regrets. And i wish more than anything, I just wish I had the chance to atone for all the evil I have done. But there is no more time. The only person I can atone to is you. By forgiving you and letting you know how sorry I am for all the wrongs I have done to you as well.
I loved it and I am feeling so many things. Feeling exactly like I had felt after The song of Achilles. Man it was emotional. I didn't realize I had become so obsessively attached with these characters. Carra, Raphael, Lewis, Henry and their oldest brother. They were the five Firefaxes. And I loved them. They were made to go through hell, just because they had wealth to their name. Things that weren't even their fault were imposed on them. There was so much cruelty in this story. Dreamy fantasy island voyage turned into the darkest most heart-rending torturous tale.The fact that it ended without the much necessary explanations and answers, just makes me want to cry more. Such beautiful characters were made to suffer so much. It was fast paced, action packed, and an emotional rollercoaster. I loved the trope of evil turning good. This character development always gets my heart. But I grieve because they didn't mourn the people that die. They never got the time or maybe that's how the author wanted it to be.
Carra revelled in that quiet, melting into nonexistence as the sun sank behind the waves. Heatless fingers of light stretched out to arrest their vessel bathing the sorrowful crew of survivors in a glow of vibrant sepia.
There are some of the most powerful scenes between siblings, scenes that had my heart stopped, or my heart sundered into smithereens. My heart warmed, or my heart burned. Between brothers some scenes are burned irreversibly in my heart and I cannot express how I felt while reading those. Such piercingly, shatteringly emotional exchanges were they. It was truly devastating but truly worth it. The prose was also very engaging.
They had failed but they would regroup and as long as the sun rose in the sky, they would continue their relentless washing of the sandy shore. To what end, she wondered. The more she stared the more things faded around her until she was staring out at nothing and there was nothing around her. Just herself in a sea of nothingness.
Carra was an amazing character. She was the perfect balance of strength, kindness, grace and love. Her love for her brothers was endless and all forsaken. She would go into death itself just to save them. She is definitely a beautiful female character, someone I'm gonna miss. And of course I'm going to experience a huge book hangover now.
I know I have a great number of regrets. An impossible number of regrets. And i wish more than anything, I just wish I had the chance to atone for all the evil I have done. But there is no more time. The only person I can atone to is you. By forgiving you and letting you know how sorry I am for all the wrongs I have done to you as well.
I loved it and I am feeling so many things. Feeling exactly like I had felt after The song of Achilles. Man it was emotional. I didn't realize I had become so obsessively attached with these characters. Carra, Raphael, Lewis, Henry and their oldest brother. They were the five Firefaxes. And I loved them. They were made to go through hell, just because they had wealth to their name. Things that weren't even their fault were imposed on them. There was so much cruelty in this story. Dreamy fantasy island voyage turned into the darkest most heart-rending torturous tale.The fact that it ended without the much necessary explanations and answers, just makes me want to cry more. Such beautiful characters were made to suffer so much. It was fast paced, action packed, and an emotional rollercoaster. I loved the trope of evil turning good. This character development always gets my heart. But I grieve because they didn't mourn the people that die. They never got the time or maybe that's how the author wanted it to be.
Carra revelled in that quiet, melting into nonexistence as the sun sank behind the waves. Heatless fingers of light stretched out to arrest their vessel bathing the sorrowful crew of survivors in a glow of vibrant sepia.
There are some of the most powerful scenes between siblings, scenes that had my heart stopped, or my heart sundered into smithereens. My heart warmed, or my heart burned. Between brothers some scenes are burned irreversibly in my heart and I cannot express how I felt while reading those. Such piercingly, shatteringly emotional exchanges were they. It was truly devastating but truly worth it. The prose was also very engaging.
They had failed but they would regroup and as long as the sun rose in the sky, they would continue their relentless washing of the sandy shore. To what end, she wondered. The more she stared the more things faded around her until she was staring out at nothing and there was nothing around her. Just herself in a sea of nothingness.
Carra was an amazing character. She was the perfect balance of strength, kindness, grace and love. Her love for her brothers was endless and all forsaken. She would go into death itself just to save them. She is definitely a beautiful female character, someone I'm gonna miss. And of course I'm going to experience a huge book hangover now.
January 29, 2024
It is difficult for me to describe the depth of emotion that this book makes me feel.
I found myself feeling overwhelmed by what the characters were feeling.
The author paints incredibly detailed pictures with their descriptions, making me feel almost as though I was there experiencing this with the characters.
There are incredible, beautifully detailed scenes and some sickeningly detailed descriptions of injuries and battles.
The author also does an amazing job showing us the different siblings relationships within this complex/dysfunctional family of assassins. Family can be difficult and messy, and this book does a great job showing that.
I am a bit sad now that I've finished this book, I wish there was more for me to read. I want to learn even more about the intriguing members of the Firefax family.
I had been reading the book when I had time, and it was difficult for me to ever want to put it down, but my 4 children's many interruptions led me to start listening to the audiobook instead.
The audiobook is narrated by Vas Eli. He did an exceptional job. He has a pleasant and easy to listen to voice, and he helps to make these characters come to life. I could sense that he appreciated this book as well by the way he read it.
I really hope to see more from this author in the near future!
I found myself feeling overwhelmed by what the characters were feeling.
The author paints incredibly detailed pictures with their descriptions, making me feel almost as though I was there experiencing this with the characters.
There are incredible, beautifully detailed scenes and some sickeningly detailed descriptions of injuries and battles.
The author also does an amazing job showing us the different siblings relationships within this complex/dysfunctional family of assassins. Family can be difficult and messy, and this book does a great job showing that.
I am a bit sad now that I've finished this book, I wish there was more for me to read. I want to learn even more about the intriguing members of the Firefax family.
I had been reading the book when I had time, and it was difficult for me to ever want to put it down, but my 4 children's many interruptions led me to start listening to the audiobook instead.
The audiobook is narrated by Vas Eli. He did an exceptional job. He has a pleasant and easy to listen to voice, and he helps to make these characters come to life. I could sense that he appreciated this book as well by the way he read it.
I really hope to see more from this author in the near future!
December 6, 2023
What I Did Like:
+The history of the Firefax family was intriguing. This was refreshing as, often, when a story breaks to give you backstory it is boring. This one worked to add a little mystery to the story.
+Murdoch. The mysterious dark stranger of legend. The long lost brother. The dangerous killer. Yet the way he treats the other character betrays his reality, his true inner nature. I love characters like him! He was so deep and so morally grey he became my instant favorite. Plus, he has a sort of dry sarcastic humor, which is my favorite kind!
+Beautiful language. The descriptions are well done, the emotions are on the surface, and the dialogue feels realistic. Just well written.
Who Should Read This One:
-Readers who enjoy complex characters, family drama, and historical settings.
-Readers who like slow building stories that come together in a rush of and leave you breathless.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Although hard to classify by genre, the beauty of this dysfunctional family of assassins captivates and will appeal to a huge variety of readers. Highly recommended!
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2023/12/...
+The history of the Firefax family was intriguing. This was refreshing as, often, when a story breaks to give you backstory it is boring. This one worked to add a little mystery to the story.
+Murdoch. The mysterious dark stranger of legend. The long lost brother. The dangerous killer. Yet the way he treats the other character betrays his reality, his true inner nature. I love characters like him! He was so deep and so morally grey he became my instant favorite. Plus, he has a sort of dry sarcastic humor, which is my favorite kind!
+Beautiful language. The descriptions are well done, the emotions are on the surface, and the dialogue feels realistic. Just well written.
Who Should Read This One:
-Readers who enjoy complex characters, family drama, and historical settings.
-Readers who like slow building stories that come together in a rush of and leave you breathless.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Although hard to classify by genre, the beauty of this dysfunctional family of assassins captivates and will appeal to a huge variety of readers. Highly recommended!
For Full Review: https://alltherightreads.com/2023/12/...
October 6, 2023
This is one of those books that surprises you at every turn. I came into it interested in the alternative history, and was drawn in by the beautiful language, but it was really the characters that blew me away. I'll certainly be thinking about the Firefaxes for a long time.
September 4, 2023
A captivating, immersive story full of suspense, intrigue and action. This was a great read!
November 2, 2023
This was a great adventure. The characters are well developed and lots of action. I liked how the revolution was intermixed with the family's fate.
March 3, 2024
In Firefax, by Amelia M. Vergara, the American War for Independence serves as a vivid backdrop to a tale of familial ties, espionage, and moral ambiguity. The narrative centers around the Firefax siblings, who have been nurtured on their family's Maralah farm with a unique skill set tailored for assassination. Following the demise of their patriarch, the siblings are compelled to navigate their complex relationships anew, while simultaneously contending with their entanglement in a dangerous game orchestrated by Murdoch, the eldest, between two rival spy agencies, Argonaut and Myrmidon, in their quest for the elusive island of Lubrerum.
Vergara skillfully merges elements of mystery, action, and high-seas adventure in Firefax, creating a multifaceted and engaging story. Despite a large cast of characters within the Firefax family, Vergara introduces them methodically, allowing readers to become acquainted with each one. The narrative occasionally leans on the suspension of disbelief, yet I feel it remains within the bounds of plausibility.
Character development is a strong suit in this novel. Murdoch Firefax emerges as a complex antihero—his enigmatic and ruthless nature not only propels the storyline but also creates friction among the characters. In contrast, Cara Firefax serves as an emotional counterbalance to Murdoch, adding depth to their interactions and the overall plot. The storyline is well-crafted and paced, with the War for Independence casting a significant yet subtle influence over the events. The mystery woven through the narrative challenges the characters and keeps readers engaged, balancing predictability with emotional investment. The book concludes with an unforeseen twist, prompting speculation about the future of these intriguing characters.
Firefax is an absorbing read, deftly blending historical context with a family saga of secrecy and survival. Vergara's narrative is both a cerebral journey and a heart-pounding escapade, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate historical fiction with a twist of intrigue.
Vergara skillfully merges elements of mystery, action, and high-seas adventure in Firefax, creating a multifaceted and engaging story. Despite a large cast of characters within the Firefax family, Vergara introduces them methodically, allowing readers to become acquainted with each one. The narrative occasionally leans on the suspension of disbelief, yet I feel it remains within the bounds of plausibility.
Character development is a strong suit in this novel. Murdoch Firefax emerges as a complex antihero—his enigmatic and ruthless nature not only propels the storyline but also creates friction among the characters. In contrast, Cara Firefax serves as an emotional counterbalance to Murdoch, adding depth to their interactions and the overall plot. The storyline is well-crafted and paced, with the War for Independence casting a significant yet subtle influence over the events. The mystery woven through the narrative challenges the characters and keeps readers engaged, balancing predictability with emotional investment. The book concludes with an unforeseen twist, prompting speculation about the future of these intriguing characters.
Firefax is an absorbing read, deftly blending historical context with a family saga of secrecy and survival. Vergara's narrative is both a cerebral journey and a heart-pounding escapade, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate historical fiction with a twist of intrigue.
June 9, 2024
During the Revolutionary War, there are rumors of a city of gold that is hidden on an island whose location is known only to the Firefax family. The Riches on this island could finance the entire war… if it could be found. But the Firefax family are actually a family of trainers assassin's for hire, so convincing them to disclose the island's location is next to impossible. But a rival assassin just might know how to get Murdock, the eldest Firefax, to disclose the island's location.
I read a review copy of this book, and the first thing I can say about it is that it was not what I expected. Yes, the family this book follows are assassins, but it is an interesting story that is not actually about their profession or their intended victims. It is about the family themselves. The characters are ones that you find yourself wanting to know more about. There is more to them than their being merely paid killers. They are actually quite a fascinating extended farming family... who also happen to be highly skilled assassins.
In a lot of ways, this is more of a story about family interactions and what they are willing to do to protect each other. Yes, there is actually a city of gold and rival assassins hunting for it, but it is the Firefax family that is the larger story, both in the American colonies, and in the city of gold, which just happens to be the home of a rather unusual religious cult.
Reading it, it may seem to have a bit slow of a start to the story, but once you truly get into it, it quickly picks up steam. I can only assume that there will be a sequel to this story as it seems to end rather abruptly, leaving me with some unanswered questions. And so. I will be watching for a book two to be released to find out what happens next. I did enjoy reading this book. And if you enjoy historical fiction with a twist, I think you probably will too.
I read a review copy of this book, and the first thing I can say about it is that it was not what I expected. Yes, the family this book follows are assassins, but it is an interesting story that is not actually about their profession or their intended victims. It is about the family themselves. The characters are ones that you find yourself wanting to know more about. There is more to them than their being merely paid killers. They are actually quite a fascinating extended farming family... who also happen to be highly skilled assassins.
In a lot of ways, this is more of a story about family interactions and what they are willing to do to protect each other. Yes, there is actually a city of gold and rival assassins hunting for it, but it is the Firefax family that is the larger story, both in the American colonies, and in the city of gold, which just happens to be the home of a rather unusual religious cult.
Reading it, it may seem to have a bit slow of a start to the story, but once you truly get into it, it quickly picks up steam. I can only assume that there will be a sequel to this story as it seems to end rather abruptly, leaving me with some unanswered questions. And so. I will be watching for a book two to be released to find out what happens next. I did enjoy reading this book. And if you enjoy historical fiction with a twist, I think you probably will too.
December 16, 2023
This is a fantasy without dragons, magic, fae, wizards etc. It is about the Firefax family who are family of assassins. They are known for their skill and ruthlessness. Although one wants to escape the family business and become a priest and the sister has never killed a person.
When the patriarch suddenly dies the eldest son Murdoch returns. He is ruthless, skilled and sarcastic. It is almost a reverse noir book as we see him go from uncaring and vicious to someone who starts to feel. Most of the time you don't know what to make of him or who is the enemy but I couldn't get enough of this morally grey character with a snarky wit. He always seems to know more than anyone else.
There is a mysterious island that holds the Firefax wealth and has a city of Gold. The only one who knows where it is is Murdoch. Since this is set during the revolutionary war, both the British and the Yankees both want the money to fund their side of the war. But no one has ever left the island alive unless they were a Firefax.
The narration was terrific and while so many characters had nicknames that were sometimes hard to follow it was a great story of a truly dysfunctional family trying to find their way. I found myself drawn into the story and while it was brutal and not all the characters survive you see how they evolve as the story moves. It is truly about family and the family dynamics and what the patriarch of the clan created.
When the patriarch suddenly dies the eldest son Murdoch returns. He is ruthless, skilled and sarcastic. It is almost a reverse noir book as we see him go from uncaring and vicious to someone who starts to feel. Most of the time you don't know what to make of him or who is the enemy but I couldn't get enough of this morally grey character with a snarky wit. He always seems to know more than anyone else.
There is a mysterious island that holds the Firefax wealth and has a city of Gold. The only one who knows where it is is Murdoch. Since this is set during the revolutionary war, both the British and the Yankees both want the money to fund their side of the war. But no one has ever left the island alive unless they were a Firefax.
The narration was terrific and while so many characters had nicknames that were sometimes hard to follow it was a great story of a truly dysfunctional family trying to find their way. I found myself drawn into the story and while it was brutal and not all the characters survive you see how they evolve as the story moves. It is truly about family and the family dynamics and what the patriarch of the clan created.
December 9, 2023
I was NOT expecting to like this one…but here we are.
It started out slow…building…with very unlikable characters. Set in the 1600’s.
BUT, as time went on, and we get to see the true beings of these characters (mostly from ONE family), and the love they all (almost all) have for each other, it’s hard not to grow to love them.
Carra, the only sister, as well as Raphael, Henry, Louis, and the feared eldest brother Murdoch are all Firefax’s. One of the most feared surnames!
You see, they are from one of the oldest families…and they are all assassins. Very good assassins…
And they come to find that a fairytale type rumor, that there is treasure hidden far away that belongs to their family, just might be true. And the only one who knows where it is, is among them, but will not give away the secret.
But then again, he just might have to…
There is torture. There is gruesome death….throughout the book. But, there is also LOVE…so much love…
I was really hoping for some miracles, multiple times in the book…but it was not to be. Maybe there will be a sequel?
Thanks to #NetGalley and #BooksGoSocialAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, which was released already.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#Firefax by #AmeliaVergara.
Follow me for all my upcoming reviews and previews @ #BookReviewsWithElaine on FB & @ #BookReviews_with_emsr on IG.
Happy Reading!! 📖📚
It started out slow…building…with very unlikable characters. Set in the 1600’s.
BUT, as time went on, and we get to see the true beings of these characters (mostly from ONE family), and the love they all (almost all) have for each other, it’s hard not to grow to love them.
Carra, the only sister, as well as Raphael, Henry, Louis, and the feared eldest brother Murdoch are all Firefax’s. One of the most feared surnames!
You see, they are from one of the oldest families…and they are all assassins. Very good assassins…
And they come to find that a fairytale type rumor, that there is treasure hidden far away that belongs to their family, just might be true. And the only one who knows where it is, is among them, but will not give away the secret.
But then again, he just might have to…
There is torture. There is gruesome death….throughout the book. But, there is also LOVE…so much love…
I was really hoping for some miracles, multiple times in the book…but it was not to be. Maybe there will be a sequel?
Thanks to #NetGalley and #BooksGoSocialAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, which was released already.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#Firefax by #AmeliaVergara.
Follow me for all my upcoming reviews and previews @ #BookReviewsWithElaine on FB & @ #BookReviews_with_emsr on IG.
Happy Reading!! 📖📚
September 13, 2023
An exhilarating historical thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Set in the backdrop of the American Revolution, this novel introduces us to the enigmatic Firefax family, notorious assassins with a rich history of intrigue and danger. When their patriarch's death and the return of the cunning Murdoch stir the pot, the stage is set for a high-stakes adventure filled with secrets, betrayal, and a legendary treasure.
The author’s storytelling is nothing short of masterful, weaving a gripping narrative that skillfully combines history, espionage, and family drama. The characters are as complex as they come, and their interactions add layers of tension and intrigue to the plot.
The author’s storytelling is nothing short of masterful, weaving a gripping narrative that skillfully combines history, espionage, and family drama. The characters are as complex as they come, and their interactions add layers of tension and intrigue to the plot.
November 30, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Firefax by Amelia Vergara, an audiobook narrated by Vas Eli is a historical treasure hunt thriller full of actions, twists, and turns. This story is about danger, lies and myths, sibling relationships, power, and family secrets. I would say that this book is a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises in every chapter. This is a story about different type of family business and every family member is happy to participate!
I would struggle to summarize this book in a couple of short sentences. There is so much happening!
This is not a short chapter book so be ready to sacrifice your sleep in line to finish the chapter.
If you love historical fiction with the piratical endeavor, strong family connection, and lots of action - this book is must read for you!
Firefax by Amelia Vergara, an audiobook narrated by Vas Eli is a historical treasure hunt thriller full of actions, twists, and turns. This story is about danger, lies and myths, sibling relationships, power, and family secrets. I would say that this book is a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises in every chapter. This is a story about different type of family business and every family member is happy to participate!
I would struggle to summarize this book in a couple of short sentences. There is so much happening!
This is not a short chapter book so be ready to sacrifice your sleep in line to finish the chapter.
If you love historical fiction with the piratical endeavor, strong family connection, and lots of action - this book is must read for you!
March 13, 2024
“Firefax” introduces the Firefax family- a family of assassins that have been around and taking out people for centuries. The current regime (set during the American revolution) is full of their problems which only worsen when the patriarch of the family is killed in an accident.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. This dysfunctional family is full of distinctive and eclectic characters. Each one is more and more compelling and they continue to develop throughout the story in both complexity and depth. I cared about these characters in a relatively short amount of time, which is a testament to the author. I especially enjoyed the growth of Murdoch & Cara’s characters. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this audiobook at heatherlbarksdale.com
Overall, I enjoyed this story. This dysfunctional family is full of distinctive and eclectic characters. Each one is more and more compelling and they continue to develop throughout the story in both complexity and depth. I cared about these characters in a relatively short amount of time, which is a testament to the author. I especially enjoyed the growth of Murdoch & Cara’s characters. Find the full blog post at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this audiobook at heatherlbarksdale.com
September 12, 2023
Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and danger in A.M. Vergara's Firefax. From the very first page, I was hooked by the captivating story of the Firefax family, a clan of notorious assassins with a history as dark as it is intriguing. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises, and I couldn't get enough of it.
Firefax is a thrilling blend of historical fiction, espionage, and family drama that will keep you guessing until the very end. As a reader, I found myself deeply invested in the fate of the characters, especially Murdoch and Istäni, whose rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the plot. This is a book that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go.
Firefax is a thrilling blend of historical fiction, espionage, and family drama that will keep you guessing until the very end. As a reader, I found myself deeply invested in the fate of the characters, especially Murdoch and Istäni, whose rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the plot. This is a book that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go.
October 6, 2023
Something as promising as assassins, hidden islands, and a backdrop to the American Revolution should not be this slow burn. I also don’t know why it was so important to point out how ugly they were multiple times on these pages. As if vanity has anything to do with being a good assassin.
The Firefax family is dysfunctional to say the least. Their relationships and feelings of loyalty or betrayal of one another reminded me of solving a punnett square.
The story itself is convoluted and strewn with historical significance. Though I dare say it could have been 100 pages shorter, the last 75 pages or so were a saving grace.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC
The Firefax family is dysfunctional to say the least. Their relationships and feelings of loyalty or betrayal of one another reminded me of solving a punnett square.
The story itself is convoluted and strewn with historical significance. Though I dare say it could have been 100 pages shorter, the last 75 pages or so were a saving grace.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC
January 28, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Here we have a family, fraught with drama and past offences, but they are not just any family. They are a family of assassins. Through the book their family ties are tested as they search for a secret land that only the oldest knows the location of.
I liken this story to Treasure Island, with it's swashbuckling and sense of adventure. The author being in the medical field has allowed for some very realistic descriptions of injuries, and anyone with a weak stomach may want to know that in advance. The author has a beautiful way with words and I will be looking for more works from them in the future.
I liken this story to Treasure Island, with it's swashbuckling and sense of adventure. The author being in the medical field has allowed for some very realistic descriptions of injuries, and anyone with a weak stomach may want to know that in advance. The author has a beautiful way with words and I will be looking for more works from them in the future.
October 23, 2024
Interesting story & plot. All the characters came together quite well. I liked the use of the American revolution. I liked the myth that the author created, but it was a little harder to get on board with than others I've read. I tend to prefer twists on pre-existing myths rather than whole new ones. But by the time the entire story was laid out I was able to enjoy it.
Second book I've read by this author. While I usually prefer fantasy (this book would be historical fantasy), I think I preferred their other book "La Belle Famille" just a little more, which was a historical fiction.
Not super into Audiobooks but I really enjoyed the narration done by Vas Eli. Great voice
Second book I've read by this author. While I usually prefer fantasy (this book would be historical fantasy), I think I preferred their other book "La Belle Famille" just a little more, which was a historical fiction.
Not super into Audiobooks but I really enjoyed the narration done by Vas Eli. Great voice
September 23, 2023
I want to start off by saying I am NOT a fan of historical fiction.
This story hooked me in the beginning with a crazy death & bloodbath that had to do with Cara, her father, and a horse. I love pirates and strong female leads, so I thought for sure this would be a win.
Unfortunately the pace was just way too slow for me and while the various facts sprinkled throughout would be a historical fiction-lover's dream come true - like I said, I am not one, so I found it slowed the plot progression way too much.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the advanced copy!
This story hooked me in the beginning with a crazy death & bloodbath that had to do with Cara, her father, and a horse. I love pirates and strong female leads, so I thought for sure this would be a win.
Unfortunately the pace was just way too slow for me and while the various facts sprinkled throughout would be a historical fiction-lover's dream come true - like I said, I am not one, so I found it slowed the plot progression way too much.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the advanced copy!
November 25, 2023
I had high hopes for this book based on the description and I'm not saying it's bad but for some reason I just cannot get into it. I keep listening in hopes that I just hadn't been sucked in yet and I keep turning it off. I can't exactly put my finger on why but alas I must DNF at 30%. I am sure there are plenty of people who will love this book and maybe I'll give it another shot some other time but for now I'm putting it down.
Thank you NetGalley, BooksGoSocial Audio and Amelia Vergara for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley, BooksGoSocial Audio and Amelia Vergara for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2023
This was a super fun listen. It’s a book with a wealth of plot twists and evidence that’s hiding in plain sight. There are plenty of interesting characters with lots of different personalities, the writer did an excellent job of making each one unique and giving them a chance to develop and for us to learn their motives. Lots of action and the time period is very fun. I definitely recommend book, there’s a lot to love about it. A great and interesting take on the ‘city of gold’ type story. The narrator was excellent and did a great job with the characters too. Thank you for the ARC!
December 14, 2023
I enjoyed this book alot. A family of assassins. Multiple interesting characters. A complicated plot. An ugly sister that is tougher than nails. No one can touch the Firefax family............Not true. They go through alot. Beatings. Gun shots. Poisoning. Starvation. So violent. So good. Warning: This author will kill off your people.
I was gifted an Audio version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narration is really good. Lot of action. Lots of expression. Lots of feels. 5 stars.
I was gifted an Audio version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narration is really good. Lot of action. Lots of expression. Lots of feels. 5 stars.
January 7, 2024
‘Firefax’ written by Amelia Vergara and narrated by Vas Eli.
Unfortunately, I could not get drawn into this book. I listened to the first few chapters, but was not intrigued. I believe in giving a book a few chapters before I make a call on whether to continue or not. This book just did not capture my interest and attention, even though the summary definitely captured my interest.
Thank you #NetGalley and #BooksGoSocial Audio for the opportunity to listen to this early version in exchange for a review. All opinions and thoughts are those of my own. #Firefax #NetGalley
Unfortunately, I could not get drawn into this book. I listened to the first few chapters, but was not intrigued. I believe in giving a book a few chapters before I make a call on whether to continue or not. This book just did not capture my interest and attention, even though the summary definitely captured my interest.
Thank you #NetGalley and #BooksGoSocial Audio for the opportunity to listen to this early version in exchange for a review. All opinions and thoughts are those of my own. #Firefax #NetGalley
January 12, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this swashbuckling adventure. It has it all: a family of assassins, action-packed fights, deception, love, treasure, a secret island, and a family quest. But it wasn't just one action scene after another. The author did a wonderful job developing the characters and giving them depth and motivation. You could never decide who were the good guys vs the bad, and in this instance it worked. A great read.
March 27, 2024
There is an island which has a treasure hidden on it. Only one person knows where it is hidden but there is a war brewing between two group of people. They both want the treasure and one group has a new leader who is very cruel. What is going to happen? Who will find it? How will it go? Follow them to see if anyone gets the treasure
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
April 1, 2024
The story opens in 1781, introducing the Firefax family, then occasionally switches back and forth in time to provide information to help the story along. This is a story about a dysfunctional family on a treasure hunt based at sea with a war pending. The story is told from what reads like a narrator's perspective, providing insight into each character as they attempt to work together.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Thank you to Hidden Gems Books and author.
January 20, 2024
I requested this audiobook, but once I got it, I was wary about it. But once I got into it, it kept me intrigued. This family of killers were highly entertaining!
Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio, Net Galley and the Publisher for an audio copy of Firefax in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to BooksGoSocial Audio, Net Galley and the Publisher for an audio copy of Firefax in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2024
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this audio book.
I struggled getting into this one. I think it would have been easier for me to do so if I was reading a physical copy of this one, nothing against the narrator who did perfectly fine. I just felt like all of the family members blurred together in audio form.
I struggled getting into this one. I think it would have been easier for me to do so if I was reading a physical copy of this one, nothing against the narrator who did perfectly fine. I just felt like all of the family members blurred together in audio form.
March 17, 2024
N.B. I received a free copy of this book via Storygraph Giveaways.
I think the book is written well enough and the narrator did a great job. The story itself just wasn't my cup of tea. I do think that it got better the farther in you got. I think this has potential to be a great read or listen for those interested in these types of pirate adventures.
I think the book is written well enough and the narrator did a great job. The story itself just wasn't my cup of tea. I do think that it got better the farther in you got. I think this has potential to be a great read or listen for those interested in these types of pirate adventures.
November 14, 2023
Interesting story - engaging characters.
I found it atmospheric and the unusual (to me) setting (historical time and place) added to the intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
I found it atmospheric and the unusual (to me) setting (historical time and place) added to the intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews