Heart of Arson: The Phoenix Queen

by Caramia Sami

Maria Fiamma must try to navigate her reign after years of being an isolated outcast at court. She must learn to sacrifice both her ego, and love, for the kingdom that never loved her. Her only companions thus far have been the ghosts that haunt InFiamma's castle. Arabella Marella is a new arrival at court, whose only goal is to gain status, and provide her home territory with resources in the process. She never anticipated that she would fall in love with the Phoenix Queen.

Genres: Lesbian, Fantasy, Queer, Romance, LGBT

477 pages, Paperback

Published March 30, 2024

About the author

Sami is an indie author from both Nevada and Massachusetts. She spends ninety percent of her time in the library, the rest of her time making jewelry at home. Heart of Arson is her first novel, which she created the concept for during her final undergraduate year at University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Reviews

[Kay Vandenberg · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun sapphic fantasy with interesting side characters. While the plot intrigued me, some further proof reading could have been done. The POVs would often jump without break or explanation making for a confusing read at times but I am intrigued to see where Sami goes with the plot and to see improvements in her writing

[Keyonireads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not the one to write reviews, but this book deserves one. This is a coming of age story where two women in their early twenties are trying to figure out how they fit together while also trying to understand who they are as individuals. This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions and while it does have some spice it’s just the cherry on top of the amazing plot. Honestly can’t wait to read more from the author.

[Rach · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book at the Las Vegas book festival thinking it looked pretty interesting. I was also aware that this is Caramia’s (self-published) debut novel so I went into it not exactly expecting a masterpiece. What I will say is the first 250 pages are just world building and, to be completely honest, boring. I almost DNFed this about 100 pages in. But, I stuck it out and the second half of the book was a well written story. I enjoyed the main character Maria (which is actually the name I have always wanted to name my own daughter if I had one!) and I, from the get-go, found Arabella to be insufferable. I liked the plot twists and I loved the last 100 pages. I believe that, with more experience, Caramia could turn this book into something really special.

[Dani Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y’all please read this book! I’ll be thinking about it for months. I’m not good at writing reviews but it’s good okay? Please please read this sapphic story because it’s amazing! I hope the author continues

[Lilly Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story so much. I like how the transition into the next book played out, and I’m so excited to see where the story goes next.

[Rtz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this book had some twists. Queen, f/f romance, action and drama. Would love to read the next one.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF but the premise and characters had potential. It just just didn’t land for me and I found the pacing strange. Also might be biased because I prefer a slowburn.

[Amber The Ninth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excuse me I'm unwell 😭 I need to know what happens next or I might pass away from heartbreak