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Sanang #4
Fire Smoldering
Fire born
Fire lived
Two flames destined to be together
Can they overcome dark forces threatening them?
K-pop idol with a power over fire
A fire wielder who rises like phoenix
They smolder and burn when they meet
Sanang is a K-pop group composed of five idols with elemental powers that fight against dark creatures. This is the fourth book in the Sanang series and the story of Hwa and Menes, their love and their fight against the dark creatures that threaten everyone.
Fire lived
Two flames destined to be together
Can they overcome dark forces threatening them?
K-pop idol with a power over fire
A fire wielder who rises like phoenix
They smolder and burn when they meet
Sanang is a K-pop group composed of five idols with elemental powers that fight against dark creatures. This is the fourth book in the Sanang series and the story of Hwa and Menes, their love and their fight against the dark creatures that threaten everyone.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2023
6 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Arian Williams
9 books30 followersArian lives in the nostalgic rainy city of Seattle in the Pacific Northwest of the US with their loving partner, five adorable stuffed penguins, all with their own proper names, and one imaginary Maine Coon cat.
They began writing romance novels in high school primarily to entertain their romance reading buddies, but it soon became their hobby and passion. They've just never been confident enough until later in their life to put themself out there.
They love to live in their own head and vicariously experience the lives of their characters. How else would they be able to live half a dozen lives at once?
They're grateful for their caring partner who’s been nothing but encouraging despite them spending hours inside their head.
https://arianwilliamsauthor.com/
They began writing romance novels in high school primarily to entertain their romance reading buddies, but it soon became their hobby and passion. They've just never been confident enough until later in their life to put themself out there.
They love to live in their own head and vicariously experience the lives of their characters. How else would they be able to live half a dozen lives at once?
They're grateful for their caring partner who’s been nothing but encouraging despite them spending hours inside their head.
https://arianwilliamsauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 20, 2023
The more connected Sanang and Tasier's storylines get, the more I think I need to do a full re-read to fully understand what's going on. I enjoyed the parts of Hwa and Menes's story I understood, but there were a lot of gaps and missing pieces for me because I couldn't remember a lot of the details of this intricately planned out universe. Hwa and Menes were more tumultuous as a couple, with a lot of angst and uncertainty in the early days. Hwa was more emotional by nature, and he also had a lot of pent-up feelings of worthlessness from his childhood that Menes unknowingly triggered when he kept his distance. I found their connection compelling, but a bit frustrating in the way Menes kept going hot and cold on Hwa. I get that Menes had his own fears about love to contend with, but I wish he'd been more clear and communicative with Hwa instead of giving him so much space. Their Neseret connection was an unexpected and interesting addition to their pairing, and I enjoyed the extra dimension it gave to their steamy moments. Storyline wise, this book didn't have a lot of Imugi action going on, but in its absence there were multiple monster fights, Sanang K-pop events, and a scary stalker to deal with. I still get the sense that there's a much bigger battle to come, but both Imugi and Sanang are still gearing up for it. The romance felt like it was much more central to the storyline than usual, and while I did like that change of pace, I felt like other areas of the book were a bit lacking. I wish Hwa had gotten even a little bit of closure with his family, and the whole renewal cycle thing was a bit abrupt and not well explained. I'm still invested in finding out how this overall story ends, but I'm not loving the universe as much as I did in the beginning.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 25, 2023
A good addition to the series
I definitely think this is a series where you have to have read the preceding books - it’s been a while since I read the last one and I’ll admit at times I felt a bit lost. I think in future I’ll do a reread of all the books before reading the next in the series as I think that will help. Hwa and Menes were the focus of this book and I found their romance a lot angstier - it definitely wasn’t smooth sailing and I honestly blame a lot of that on Menes failure to actually communicate which made him come off as really hot and cold. I can understand why Hwa found it so difficult. I did love the way their fires were approached and how they worked together and their connection definitely made their steamy moments that much better. I liked that we got more monster fighting in general, though I do wish that we got a bit more in respect of the general story arc in respect of the Imugi, something is definitely coming in that front but it felt a little left by the wayside I guess. That being said, I am glad that we got some monster fighting outside of the big bad - it was nice to see that side of the group and get some more world building. I don’t think this is my favourite of the series but I really enjoyed it. This is still a really interesting series and I’m looking forward to the next book!
I definitely think this is a series where you have to have read the preceding books - it’s been a while since I read the last one and I’ll admit at times I felt a bit lost. I think in future I’ll do a reread of all the books before reading the next in the series as I think that will help. Hwa and Menes were the focus of this book and I found their romance a lot angstier - it definitely wasn’t smooth sailing and I honestly blame a lot of that on Menes failure to actually communicate which made him come off as really hot and cold. I can understand why Hwa found it so difficult. I did love the way their fires were approached and how they worked together and their connection definitely made their steamy moments that much better. I liked that we got more monster fighting in general, though I do wish that we got a bit more in respect of the general story arc in respect of the Imugi, something is definitely coming in that front but it felt a little left by the wayside I guess. That being said, I am glad that we got some monster fighting outside of the big bad - it was nice to see that side of the group and get some more world building. I don’t think this is my favourite of the series but I really enjoyed it. This is still a really interesting series and I’m looking forward to the next book!
October 27, 2023
Hwa and Menes finally get their story and what a story it is. Hwa is feeling a bit unwanted. His mother is having another baby while his father wants nothing to do with him. Everyone in the group has found love except him. He knows he wants Menes but Menes even seems to be rejecting him. Hwa has also picked up a stalker who has become increasingly adept at avoiding security. If all that is not enough, dark creatures seem to be appearing with unusual frequency.
The fourth exciting novel in the Sanang series tells the story of Hwa and Menes. While searching for their nemesis continues, life does go on and love is found, but for each that love must hard fought. Imulgi, their nemesis, is quite clever and as they adjust so too does Imulgi. The world building continues to be excellent and Menes has more than a few surprises in store for us and for Hwa. This series of stories is incredibly exciting and engaging. The next one will be eagerly anticipated.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it to my pleasure. The opinions are my own.
The fourth exciting novel in the Sanang series tells the story of Hwa and Menes. While searching for their nemesis continues, life does go on and love is found, but for each that love must hard fought. Imulgi, their nemesis, is quite clever and as they adjust so too does Imulgi. The world building continues to be excellent and Menes has more than a few surprises in store for us and for Hwa. This series of stories is incredibly exciting and engaging. The next one will be eagerly anticipated.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it to my pleasure. The opinions are my own.
October 29, 2023
More interesting combination of Kpop and dark creatures
Hwa and Menes are the main couple of this latest book by Arian Williams in her Sanang series. The unfortunate part of this book for me is that these two men have to spend time apart because of what is going on around them. The whole band is feeling like it’s getting more difficult to keep up with their band duties and fighting the dark forces around them all while trying to have a life with their boyfriends. Ms. Williams seems to be setting things up for what is presumably the last book given that there is only one more unattached member of the band.
I always forget that I need to read these books at slower than my normal because of the names and Korean words. I’m dyslexic and I struggle with stuff like that, but I love the stories and how the author has woven so much interesting things like food and traditions into the stories. Definitely worth getting through. I have thoughts about how things will end and an looking forward to seeing what happens.
Hwa and Menes are the main couple of this latest book by Arian Williams in her Sanang series. The unfortunate part of this book for me is that these two men have to spend time apart because of what is going on around them. The whole band is feeling like it’s getting more difficult to keep up with their band duties and fighting the dark forces around them all while trying to have a life with their boyfriends. Ms. Williams seems to be setting things up for what is presumably the last book given that there is only one more unattached member of the band.
I always forget that I need to read these books at slower than my normal because of the names and Korean words. I’m dyslexic and I struggle with stuff like that, but I love the stories and how the author has woven so much interesting things like food and traditions into the stories. Definitely worth getting through. I have thoughts about how things will end and an looking forward to seeing what happens.
August 7, 2025
Spoilers ahead!
I've read the previous series a while back, so I spent half the time trying to remember them.
Instead of giving us a refresh of the previous series, reminding us what Atarav is, instead, we now know the full extent of the Korean cuisine. The characters spend a lot of time eating, and every...single...time...we get a full description of the freaking dishes! And if you want a very descriptive recipe of Yakgwa, this is your book! We have like a LOT of pages describing it! Sometimes, it felt like reading a cookbook...again, put notes, don't make it half the plotline!
So, if you take out the description of the food, korean houses, korean clothes or korean culture...you'll end up with a very poor storyline! I found myself skipping these descriptions!
As a series, it's inferior to the previous one.
And lastly, the BDSM came completely out of left field. It's like a completely separate book. When I started it, it was like a punch in the gut. I like it, but it's like it doesn't fit in with the rest of the series.
This is more like a Korean travel guide with a plotline...more food than smut!
I've read the previous series a while back, so I spent half the time trying to remember them.
Instead of giving us a refresh of the previous series, reminding us what Atarav is, instead, we now know the full extent of the Korean cuisine. The characters spend a lot of time eating, and every...single...time...we get a full description of the freaking dishes! And if you want a very descriptive recipe of Yakgwa, this is your book! We have like a LOT of pages describing it! Sometimes, it felt like reading a cookbook...again, put notes, don't make it half the plotline!
So, if you take out the description of the food, korean houses, korean clothes or korean culture...you'll end up with a very poor storyline! I found myself skipping these descriptions!
As a series, it's inferior to the previous one.
And lastly, the BDSM came completely out of left field. It's like a completely separate book. When I started it, it was like a punch in the gut. I like it, but it's like it doesn't fit in with the rest of the series.
This is more like a Korean travel guide with a plotline...more food than smut!
July 2, 2024
********** Contains Spoilers**********
I’m a new reader of Arian Williams’ work. I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Sanang Series. Hwa and Menes were good together but it’s pretty angsty between them until they finally get on the same page. I do wish that Menes pulled his head out of his a*se way sooner, as him giving Hwa space wasn’t good for Hwa’s wellbeing. I can fully understand why Menes did that as he was absolutely terrified of losing Hwa like he did his first supposed mate. Wow, Hwa’s father, even though he’s not his biological father is a complete f*cken a*sehole for not only treating Hwa like sh*t but how he treats his wife and uses her to control Hwa, as if he wants to see and protect her he’ll follow his rules. I still have quite a few unanswered questions that hopefully will be answered during the next book. I’m looking forward to reading the next book when it’s released. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
I’m a new reader of Arian Williams’ work. I enjoyed this book and thought that it was another good addition to the Sanang Series. Hwa and Menes were good together but it’s pretty angsty between them until they finally get on the same page. I do wish that Menes pulled his head out of his a*se way sooner, as him giving Hwa space wasn’t good for Hwa’s wellbeing. I can fully understand why Menes did that as he was absolutely terrified of losing Hwa like he did his first supposed mate. Wow, Hwa’s father, even though he’s not his biological father is a complete f*cken a*sehole for not only treating Hwa like sh*t but how he treats his wife and uses her to control Hwa, as if he wants to see and protect her he’ll follow his rules. I still have quite a few unanswered questions that hopefully will be answered during the next book. I’m looking forward to reading the next book when it’s released. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
October 16, 2023
A fun new addition to this fantasy series. Hwa and Menes make for a fiery match, and I really liked them together. Even though, in the beginning, Menes is not always as honest with Hwa as he should be. Hwa got kind of a bad rap in the previous books for maybe being a bit too flighty or flirty, and I loved getting to know him better. He was a delightful surprise, and I was sad to see him hurt on account of some people in his family. This storyline felt unfinished, so I hope it will be addressed a bit more in a next book. I really liked the mythology surrounding both MCs’ fire elements and how it played into their connection as soulmates. Sanang makes strides in their fight against Imugi, and there’s a promising hint for the next book in the series.
October 25, 2023
Hwa, is a member of a K-pop band, fire is his element to control. He also hunts monsters. Menes, a member of Tasier (a secret organization composed of those with special powers). Has an inner energy that enhances his fire abilities. Their very different fires are extremely compatible. They are Firemates.
I felt that with this fourth book the story finally settled into place. Lots of angst, creative monsters, and focused individual powers made this a good book. I think Hwa and Menes are my favorite characters. Their sparking off each other (literally) was the best romantic pairing of the series.
Still have an issue with all the character names but that didn’t bother me as much with this book.
I received an arc of this book.
I felt that with this fourth book the story finally settled into place. Lots of angst, creative monsters, and focused individual powers made this a good book. I think Hwa and Menes are my favorite characters. Their sparking off each other (literally) was the best romantic pairing of the series.
Still have an issue with all the character names but that didn’t bother me as much with this book.
I received an arc of this book.
October 14, 2023
The premise for this series is kind of everything (K pop idols with elemental powers and dark forces to combat). This particular book is an engrossing read: there are high enough stakes for the characters and enough momentum from various plot points (keeping descriptions vague here to avoid spoiling the experience) that it’s hard to stop reading once you’ve started. (A gentle note also that, as this is part of a series, you’ll want to start at the beginning, if you haven’t already.) This book’s central pairing is Hwa and Menes, and their dynamic is an interesting (in a good way!) one. 4.5 stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 28, 2023
Sparking flames
This was definitely an improvement for me, after the third book. The plot and action were good while dealings with Imugi remained snarled. There was more emphasis on the Sanang side of the group’s lives, along with new bits of folklore and culture. On the romantic front, I was still less than impressed. I expected more “fire” between Hwa and Menes, but I didn’t feel the emotion, just the physical heat. There were also unresolved threads, especially with Hwa’s family that I hope are eventually addressed. Overall, I did like the book and I have to wonder just who was the mystery man at the end who seems destined for JS.
This was definitely an improvement for me, after the third book. The plot and action were good while dealings with Imugi remained snarled. There was more emphasis on the Sanang side of the group’s lives, along with new bits of folklore and culture. On the romantic front, I was still less than impressed. I expected more “fire” between Hwa and Menes, but I didn’t feel the emotion, just the physical heat. There were also unresolved threads, especially with Hwa’s family that I hope are eventually addressed. Overall, I did like the book and I have to wonder just who was the mystery man at the end who seems destined for JS.
October 7, 2023
Hwa and Menes story continues the adventure with a heart-breaking note as uncertainty takes roots along doubt and a deep manipulation of psych that weakens the integrity of oneself.
Fear and past hurts keeps two lovers apart until drastic times when they realise what they can and can't endure.
This time the enemy is more conniving, it attacks on different fronts, and on the interior until it is discovered.
It was intense, with a powerful psychological impact that affects trust.
I enjoyed the read and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
Fear and past hurts keeps two lovers apart until drastic times when they realise what they can and can't endure.
This time the enemy is more conniving, it attacks on different fronts, and on the interior until it is discovered.
It was intense, with a powerful psychological impact that affects trust.
I enjoyed the read and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
October 11, 2023
ARC received from the author for an honest review.
This is a well written Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance with great character and world building. It isn't a standalone as it is further built off of the previous books in the serious. There's hurt/comfort and psychological aspects in this book as well. It grabbed me from page one and I couldn't put it down. I love all the characters from previous books being involved. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series. Definitely recommend this book and this series.
This is a well written Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance with great character and world building. It isn't a standalone as it is further built off of the previous books in the serious. There's hurt/comfort and psychological aspects in this book as well. It grabbed me from page one and I couldn't put it down. I love all the characters from previous books being involved. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series. Definitely recommend this book and this series.
October 12, 2023
The band...Sanang...is wonderful.
For a K-pop group they are definitely more than just entertaining!
So much tension and skills...to say nothing of the gifts they each have.
When not performing they are fighting evil.
This fourth book allows us to watch the relationship between Hwa and his body guard, Menes, build encompassing the fire they both wield with precision.
You'll definitely want to read this series in order.
I'm sitting on pins and needles waiting for book 5!
Thank you goodreads for this ARC.
For a K-pop group they are definitely more than just entertaining!
So much tension and skills...to say nothing of the gifts they each have.
When not performing they are fighting evil.
This fourth book allows us to watch the relationship between Hwa and his body guard, Menes, build encompassing the fire they both wield with precision.
You'll definitely want to read this series in order.
I'm sitting on pins and needles waiting for book 5!
Thank you goodreads for this ARC.
October 29, 2023
This continues to be a really interesting series for me both because of the romances and because of the very different world it takes me into. Hwa and Menes have a difficult relationship because their communication isn't completely open and because of external forces. There are definitely monsters to fight in this one and I found the stalker plotline a suspenseful addition as well. I wondered about having two fire characters in the same story, but the author did an amazing job of showing different aspects of fire with each and when those two different fires come together, hold on.
October 31, 2023
I'll admit, I'm reading these books now just for the romance between our kpop ideals and their "bodyguards". Hwa & Menes were so hot. I loved that they had a connection before Menes joined the group. It was tragic that it wasn't able to grow at the time, but I'm glad that it finally had a chance to bloom. As per usual, our guys are trying to balance their ideal work with fighting the dark forces. Add in Hwa attracting a stalker and you have action packed book.
Definitely worth reading, but should be read in order.
Definitely worth reading, but should be read in order.
November 6, 2023
Arian Williams continues her brilliant Sanang series with Fire Smoldering. We get the next band member/fighter’s story in this book (Hwa). We get fantasy, action, romance, and more that is woven together for this entertaining novel.
Hwa has felt unwanted in life, a product of his upbringing, and Menes provides that for him. I loved the way Hwa and Menes had an unexpected physical connection (beyond sexual) that was part of the story. They really were a perfect match.
I love this world that Ms. Williams has built, and I can’t wait to read more!
Hwa has felt unwanted in life, a product of his upbringing, and Menes provides that for him. I loved the way Hwa and Menes had an unexpected physical connection (beyond sexual) that was part of the story. They really were a perfect match.
I love this world that Ms. Williams has built, and I can’t wait to read more!
October 14, 2023
I am so fascinated by how Imugi continues to be this amorphous evil that just haunts every action. There is always the possibility that Imugi is behind any bad action. There have been some stories where it takes a more center stage but the ones where it doesn't just keeps the suspense level high.
Hwa and Menes burn up the pages, in more than one way. Seeing the behind Hwa's go lucky facade and Menes stoicism to the fears and need and the depth of the charcters was excellent to watch.
Hwa and Menes burn up the pages, in more than one way. Seeing the behind Hwa's go lucky facade and Menes stoicism to the fears and need and the depth of the charcters was excellent to watch.
October 15, 2023
Literally on Fire! I cannot get enough of this heroic band with elemental powers! Yes, this is a standalone for the romance between Hwa and Menes, but I believe you should read this series in order for all the character personalities and the growth of their powers. As well as the Evil they are battling! I love me a good bodyguard romance and this one definitely fits the bill. Menes is calm and control and the perfect balance to Hwa. I am so glad there is more to come with these Pop Stars!
October 16, 2023
I have been obsessed with the men of Sanang since the first book. There are only a very few PNR series I enjoy and this one is at the top. I love the way that the current K Pop craze is woven in with traditional folklore. And I identified with Hwa so much! Everyone has times when they doubt themselves and I love that Menes was there support him. My only regret is that I read this so quickly! I can't wait for the battle with Imugi! It is going to be epic!
October 17, 2023
I loved this book! It's the 4th in the series and while I'm not sure it's a stand-alone, it was so good! I think you'll catch more of the character nuances if you've read all of them, but I loved the authenticity of the worldbuilding and how supportive the characters are of each other. Definitely recommend this series, and this book is my favorite so far!
October 19, 2023
Tᕼᗴ Տᗩᘜᗩ ᑕOᑎTᎥᑎᑌᗴՏ
Less exciting and only slightly “smoldering”, book 4 is nevertheless an enjoyable read.
We get a bit more insight into the ever-hectic SANANG side of things for the hunters.
However, 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘚𝘮𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 left more than a few unanswered questions regarding Hwa {a delightful character} and Menes {dark and broody but underdeveloped}. Hopefully these mysteries will be addressed in book 5.
Less exciting and only slightly “smoldering”, book 4 is nevertheless an enjoyable read.
We get a bit more insight into the ever-hectic SANANG side of things for the hunters.
However, 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘚𝘮𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 left more than a few unanswered questions regarding Hwa {a delightful character} and Menes {dark and broody but underdeveloped}. Hopefully these mysteries will be addressed in book 5.
October 27, 2023
Despite being fated mates, the path to their mating was not smooth whatsoever and it mostly came down to Menes’ complete inability to communicate with Hwa, letting him know why he feels the way he does. Because of this, poor sweet Hwa is left floundering, feeling completely unlovable. Once Menes got out of his own way these 2 quickly became one of my favourite couples of the series.
The action slowly moves forward as the boys of Sanang and their Tasier counterparts dealt Imugi a serious blow which I’m sure will lead to a big retaliation in the next book. This was a really strong offering in a series where it’s imperative to have read what came before.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
The action slowly moves forward as the boys of Sanang and their Tasier counterparts dealt Imugi a serious blow which I’m sure will lead to a big retaliation in the next book. This was a really strong offering in a series where it’s imperative to have read what came before.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 29, 2023
This book was good, and I liked the romance between Menes and Hwa. I didn’t like the yo-yoing that they kept doing, it felt so hot-and-cold and seemed to be genuinely detrimental to Hwa’s mental health. The whole storyline with his mom, ugh. I wish the glossary had been in the front as it has been long enough since I read the other books that I forgot who everyone was!
October 8, 2023
Arian has once again written an amazing book that’s easy to get lost in. I sat down to read a few chapters, and the next thing I knew it was several hours later, and I finished the book! This is a continuation of the series and must be read in order, but I promise you won't be disappointed.
October 22, 2023
This is another good addition to this series, this is Hwa and Menes story and there is more of a hurt/comfort vibe to this story and it is more psychological than the others so far, but this story again kept my attention from start to finish, can’t wait for the next book in this series.
October 27, 2023
This book is a continuing storyline from previous books in the series and needs to be read in order. The book focuses on Hwa and Menes. I like seeing these two together once they (Menes especially) admit their feelings. I'm curious about where the storyline goes and will read future books.
October 27, 2023
This is the fourth book in this brilliant series as two men each born of fire get together. There are forces who do not want them to be together and will do anything to stop it. How will they get on? Can their love conquer all? See how they get on
October 28, 2023
This series is absolutely breathtaking!
In this one, we get to see Hwa and Menes come together among so much evil that they are fighting. I absolutely love the plot to this series and this story with how it keeps you captivated without too much being put at you.
In this one, we get to see Hwa and Menes come together among so much evil that they are fighting. I absolutely love the plot to this series and this story with how it keeps you captivated without too much being put at you.
October 30, 2023
Great Book
This fourth book allows us to watch the relationship between Hwa and his body guard Menes. I couldn't put it down until I finished it just like the other books in the series.
This fourth book allows us to watch the relationship between Hwa and his body guard Menes. I couldn't put it down until I finished it just like the other books in the series.
October 14, 2023
Fire Smoldering is the 4th book in the Sanang series. It is not a standalone and the series should be read in order. This is Hwa and Menes story. This book pulled me in from the beginning, I just couldn't put it down until I finished it just like the other books in the series. This book has so much going on in it. Past hurt and fear are at the for front of these two's love story. Arian Williams does an amazing job writing her characters. I can't wait to see what Arian comes up with next. This is definitely a 5 star read. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews