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firelight
Sometimes fate doesn't follow your wishes. Gwendoline Dagon is set to become queen—a role she never wanted—after the unexpected death of her sister. She clashes with Amara Payne, High Mage and royal magical advisor, who is tasked with preparing Gwendoline for the throne.
Amara has no patience for Gwendoline’s rage, given she has dedicated her life to duty and the crown. The two women struggle to understand each other and have different ideas on how the future should play out, not just for themselves, but also for the entire kingdom.
Along the way, they uncover hidden facets of themselves while navigating a world filled with political intrigue, magical lore, and societal expectations. They must learn to cooperate with each other as both outside and inside forces work to tear the kingdom apart.
firelight is a tale of forbidden romance set against the backdrop of courtly schemes where duty clashes with desire—a narrative exploring whether Gwendoline and Amara can carve out their own destiny despite being entangled in webs woven by tradition and power struggles within Reshaya.
Amara has no patience for Gwendoline’s rage, given she has dedicated her life to duty and the crown. The two women struggle to understand each other and have different ideas on how the future should play out, not just for themselves, but also for the entire kingdom.
Along the way, they uncover hidden facets of themselves while navigating a world filled with political intrigue, magical lore, and societal expectations. They must learn to cooperate with each other as both outside and inside forces work to tear the kingdom apart.
firelight is a tale of forbidden romance set against the backdrop of courtly schemes where duty clashes with desire—a narrative exploring whether Gwendoline and Amara can carve out their own destiny despite being entangled in webs woven by tradition and power struggles within Reshaya.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2024
17 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Blaum
10 books56 followersSabrina Blaum hails originally from Germany and moved to the United States in 2006. She studied Sociology, Geographic Information Systems, and English at a local university in Alabama, at which she is currently teaching English Composition.
She has always written and wrote her first “novel” in elementary school, when she decided that Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers needed a sequel. She also had the habit of telling her late grandmother bedtime stories.
Sabrina is an avid reader and writer, and she loves to spend time with family and friends.
She has always written and wrote her first “novel” in elementary school, when she decided that Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers needed a sequel. She also had the habit of telling her late grandmother bedtime stories.
Sabrina is an avid reader and writer, and she loves to spend time with family and friends.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 16, 2024
Lots and lots of sex 🥵and, it was a pleasure to read this book 🤣🤣🤣
May 3, 2024
4 Stars
This was a random pick and I’m delighted I happened on this book. The component of the story that impressed me most is the fact that most of the story revolved around the palace. Most of the twists and the bulk of the story centred in the palace and dialogue between main characters was what kept the story moving forward. They didn’t have to venture far or meet heaps of characters despite it being a royalty story to make the story entertaining.
PS the spice is over the roof!
This was a random pick and I’m delighted I happened on this book. The component of the story that impressed me most is the fact that most of the story revolved around the palace. Most of the twists and the bulk of the story centred in the palace and dialogue between main characters was what kept the story moving forward. They didn’t have to venture far or meet heaps of characters despite it being a royalty story to make the story entertaining.
PS the spice is over the roof!
November 14, 2025
Let’s be fair. Because if you know me … you know this is not my genre. (Please read the good after the warnings!!!!)
That is not Sabrina’s (the author’s) fault and she did warn me — so this is on me. It is like giving a great product a bad review because the delivery driver smashed the box or it came late. I am reviewing THE PRODUCT THE WAY IT WAS INTENDED.
There is spice. Some of you will love it. Some not as much. No one said it wasn’t spicy. It is. Not usually my thing but so be it.
There is a futuristic/fantasy/magical realm that is not my style. Heck, everyone knows I am picky as heck. I only read realistic present time drama. Yes - no past, no comedy, no western, no survival, no guns or war, etc. I own I am a pain and I try to go outside my comfort zone and run back in.
What Sabrina did was make too much sex and too much magical / fantasy less comedic or fantasy so that I could enjoy. No, she didn’t do it for me — I just enjoy the fruits of her labor. (And if we are going to have too much sex … THANK YOU for using more than “two fingers” all of the time! My sex life is not full of a two-finger life. Yes — overshare — but, seriously …
The characters are honest. They are loving. They are creative in working out impossible situations. They are bonded in so many ways that it would lead to spoiler alerts and I dislike spoilers — so read for yourself. 🙂
Actually, I listened to the audio version and the narrator was perfect for this book. I am not sure if my feeling would be different if I read print (I have a vision issue so all are audio reviews). I hope that more people will read this.
It was actually pretty fun and dealt with some serious issues that I appreciated since I do love politics. The ending was sweet. The middle was sweet. The beginning was rocky as the two initially clashed a bit. But not enemies to lovers … more a misunderstanding of policy.
I hope of you like magic or fantasy and like spicy that you have already read this! I hope if you do not but like relevant topics to today … put in a tweaked light … adding a bit of fun … you will give the book a try. I believe it is a 5 star for the right person and for the wrong person it is definitely a 4 star that can be rounded up. Because I am that boring and was intrigued by the growth of the characters and the changes in policy a young girl (young in our government) wanted to enact. It was sweet, loving, kind, honest, touching, and it could e powerful if you are into that side of it.
That is not Sabrina’s (the author’s) fault and she did warn me — so this is on me. It is like giving a great product a bad review because the delivery driver smashed the box or it came late. I am reviewing THE PRODUCT THE WAY IT WAS INTENDED.
There is spice. Some of you will love it. Some not as much. No one said it wasn’t spicy. It is. Not usually my thing but so be it.
There is a futuristic/fantasy/magical realm that is not my style. Heck, everyone knows I am picky as heck. I only read realistic present time drama. Yes - no past, no comedy, no western, no survival, no guns or war, etc. I own I am a pain and I try to go outside my comfort zone and run back in.
What Sabrina did was make too much sex and too much magical / fantasy less comedic or fantasy so that I could enjoy. No, she didn’t do it for me — I just enjoy the fruits of her labor. (And if we are going to have too much sex … THANK YOU for using more than “two fingers” all of the time! My sex life is not full of a two-finger life. Yes — overshare — but, seriously …
The characters are honest. They are loving. They are creative in working out impossible situations. They are bonded in so many ways that it would lead to spoiler alerts and I dislike spoilers — so read for yourself. 🙂
Actually, I listened to the audio version and the narrator was perfect for this book. I am not sure if my feeling would be different if I read print (I have a vision issue so all are audio reviews). I hope that more people will read this.
It was actually pretty fun and dealt with some serious issues that I appreciated since I do love politics. The ending was sweet. The middle was sweet. The beginning was rocky as the two initially clashed a bit. But not enemies to lovers … more a misunderstanding of policy.
I hope of you like magic or fantasy and like spicy that you have already read this! I hope if you do not but like relevant topics to today … put in a tweaked light … adding a bit of fun … you will give the book a try. I believe it is a 5 star for the right person and for the wrong person it is definitely a 4 star that can be rounded up. Because I am that boring and was intrigued by the growth of the characters and the changes in policy a young girl (young in our government) wanted to enact. It was sweet, loving, kind, honest, touching, and it could e powerful if you are into that side of it.
August 1, 2024
Such a clash between Gwen and Amara from the get-go. Disagreements and tensions started to rise from each interaction and led to a lot of sex. Which i don't mind. There was a lot of push and pull around each issue that presented itself, which were valid as both Gwen and Amara are holding positions of power involving politics and court procedures.
The development between them was so satisfying as there was a lot of angst and a payoff at the end that i enjoyed. However, i would have liked a bigger plot that involved more characters and more scenes in high society, which royals would experience. For example, royal parties, visits to other countries or local places etc.. they were cooped in the palace the whole time.
Not to say i disliked the sole focus on their budding relationshi, but i wanted to know more about the country as well as them being outside of their bubble. Gwen also wasn't seen ruling the country whatsoever. i didn't even see any dukes or other characters that would have added more to the story and plot.
Overall, i enjoyed the banter, romance, troupe and writing.
The development between them was so satisfying as there was a lot of angst and a payoff at the end that i enjoyed. However, i would have liked a bigger plot that involved more characters and more scenes in high society, which royals would experience. For example, royal parties, visits to other countries or local places etc.. they were cooped in the palace the whole time.
Not to say i disliked the sole focus on their budding relationshi, but i wanted to know more about the country as well as them being outside of their bubble. Gwen also wasn't seen ruling the country whatsoever. i didn't even see any dukes or other characters that would have added more to the story and plot.
Overall, i enjoyed the banter, romance, troupe and writing.
June 16, 2025
Surprisingly Fantastic – Hooked from Start to Finish!
I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but Firelight absolutely blew me away. The story pulled me in right from the beginning—beautifully written, full of emotion, magic, and a lot of heat🔥The chemistry between the main characters is electric!
The world-building was immersive, the political tension added depth, and the romance was both sweet and sizzling. I especially loved the strength and complexity of both Gwen and Amara—such compelling leads.
The narration was spot-on too. Clark Coderre brought the characters to life and kept me fully engaged throughout the audiobook.
A lovely surprise of a story. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys fantasy, strong female leads, and a lot of spice! 🥵
I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy this book as much as I did, but Firelight absolutely blew me away. The story pulled me in right from the beginning—beautifully written, full of emotion, magic, and a lot of heat🔥The chemistry between the main characters is electric!
The world-building was immersive, the political tension added depth, and the romance was both sweet and sizzling. I especially loved the strength and complexity of both Gwen and Amara—such compelling leads.
The narration was spot-on too. Clark Coderre brought the characters to life and kept me fully engaged throughout the audiobook.
A lovely surprise of a story. Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys fantasy, strong female leads, and a lot of spice! 🥵
May 28, 2024
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this book a lot but I would have liked more on page court intrigue and politics. The antagonistic relationship between the serious Amara and the somewhat carefree Gwen was fun and very hot. I also liked the political clash between the main characters. Gwen was progressive minded and I agreed with many of her arguments for dismantling the monarchy and giving power back to the people. But I could also understand that Amara didn’t want to make any rash decisions and cause political instability if Gwen actually achieved her goals. Overall, I really liked the book but I wanted more scenes around court or even the senate.
I enjoyed this book a lot but I would have liked more on page court intrigue and politics. The antagonistic relationship between the serious Amara and the somewhat carefree Gwen was fun and very hot. I also liked the political clash between the main characters. Gwen was progressive minded and I agreed with many of her arguments for dismantling the monarchy and giving power back to the people. But I could also understand that Amara didn’t want to make any rash decisions and cause political instability if Gwen actually achieved her goals. Overall, I really liked the book but I wanted more scenes around court or even the senate.
October 2, 2024
5 stars for me. I loved the fantasy elements and the magic use, and I loved how the characters work their way from an obvious power struggle they deal with to being in a very heated, messy, sexual kind of obsession that then also informs their relationship and feelings naturally.
It is messy, angsty, high-level smut at times, good action and mystery elements, and some paranormal elements as well while these two are in an arranged, forced relationship at first.
It is worth the read I think.
It is messy, angsty, high-level smut at times, good action and mystery elements, and some paranormal elements as well while these two are in an arranged, forced relationship at first.
It is worth the read I think.
May 22, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounding up. Good plot concept but I never felt really invested in or connected to the 2 FMCs. It was a super slow burn with a high focus on duty and politics … which was ok, but without a strong connection to one of the characters and the ending being less than satisfying, I couldn’t really get into it.
May 10, 2024
Excellent!
This was a bit slow starting, but once it gets going, wow! Gwen was a bit annoying at first, but it passes. Amara is really something. Loved the story, the world building, and the character growth of BOTH main characters. This is an excellent read!
This was a bit slow starting, but once it gets going, wow! Gwen was a bit annoying at first, but it passes. Amara is really something. Loved the story, the world building, and the character growth of BOTH main characters. This is an excellent read!
May 18, 2024
Undeniably filled with fire and passion in this fantasy world where politics, old ways conflict with the changes of modern ways. Sometimes it is when we let go that we make room for something better that leads to a HEA..
April 26, 2024
This was a lot of fun, really hot, funny, and tragic at times. I'll revisit this one.
November 12, 2025
Pretty engaging romantasy, and I liked the narration by Clark Coderre, especially her voice for Amara.
June 1, 2025
Sabrina Blaum’s world-building in Reyshaya is captivating! The interplay between political intrigue, magical elements, and character growth adds depth and richness to the tale. Blaum skillfully weaves together various elements to create a multilayered narrative that will keep readers engaged and as always, her dialogue is both witty and poignant.
firelight is a sexy, captivating read with its combination of romance and tension-filled dynamics between two women who thrive on arguing. Blaum crafted a narrative that delves into themes of acceptance, honesty, and trust while keeping readers hooked with secrets, magick, and intrigue. The steam factor is ramped up in the most exquisite ways allowing readers to fall in love with two flawed and brilliant women. Grab your copy, get comfortable, and enjoy this riveting romantasy!
Audiobook Addition:
Clark Coderre is the perfect narrator for this steamy, emotionally charged tale. Her mellow tone carries a simmering undercurrent of tension that keeps you locked in from the first word. She captures everything from Amara’s icy restraint to Gwen’s playful frustration with striking authenticity. The voices she gives each character are pitch-perfect: Amara’s cool, commanding tone contrasts beautifully with Gwen’s more expressive, often exasperated delivery. Even in their quietest moments, the chemistry between them crackles thanks to Coderre’s performance. Her pacing is measured and deliberate during moments of reflection, then sharp and dynamic when the stakes rise. Overall, her narration elevates an already captivating story.
firelight is a sexy, captivating read with its combination of romance and tension-filled dynamics between two women who thrive on arguing. Blaum crafted a narrative that delves into themes of acceptance, honesty, and trust while keeping readers hooked with secrets, magick, and intrigue. The steam factor is ramped up in the most exquisite ways allowing readers to fall in love with two flawed and brilliant women. Grab your copy, get comfortable, and enjoy this riveting romantasy!
Audiobook Addition:
Clark Coderre is the perfect narrator for this steamy, emotionally charged tale. Her mellow tone carries a simmering undercurrent of tension that keeps you locked in from the first word. She captures everything from Amara’s icy restraint to Gwen’s playful frustration with striking authenticity. The voices she gives each character are pitch-perfect: Amara’s cool, commanding tone contrasts beautifully with Gwen’s more expressive, often exasperated delivery. Even in their quietest moments, the chemistry between them crackles thanks to Coderre’s performance. Her pacing is measured and deliberate during moments of reflection, then sharp and dynamic when the stakes rise. Overall, her narration elevates an already captivating story.
October 24, 2025
What a beautiful cover showing the title. Sabrina Blaum has written a forbidden love story between the Princess and her adviser the Magi. Not only age difference but the tale develops when the Princess suddenly rises to learn to be Queen. This is such a well written tale
2025 well worth a re listen
2025 well worth a re listen
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews