The Fire Apprentice

by Emily Jane Buehler

He’s the blacksmith. But she’s the one playing with fire.

After a fairy seduced her, fathered her child, and tried to take that child, Jane swore she’d never trust one again. Surely she can find a suitable human man to be a companion for herself and a father for little Elle, right? So when her housemate mentions a new apprentice blacksmith, Jane leaves Elle playing in the yard and heads to the smithy.

Rowan is rugged and handsome but clearly not interested. A disappointed Jane has just left the smithy when a sudden shadow swoops over the village. Jane races home to see a dragon snatching Elle. Jane is distraught. Then Rowan mysteriously appears and offers to rescue the child. He insists the dragon won’t hurt Elle—apparently fairy children apprentice with dragons to learn fire magic. How does Rowan know so much about fairies? Turns out, he is one.

Jane will do anything to rescue Elle, even if it involves the F word—a fairy. But climbing into the mountains with Rowan is risky. His reticence keeps Jane guessing, but she can’t keep her mind off he’s even more handsome out in the moonlit woods, with that deep voice and those capable hands. When Jane and Rowan run into trouble, Jane must take charge. Because it turns out, Rowan needs rescuing too.

The Fire Apprentice is a grumpy/sunshine romance—or maybe more of a brooding/effusive romance—that’s perfect for fans of Throne in the Dark or Jenna Wolfhart’s Falling for Fables cozy romantasy series. Each book in the Sylvania series can be read on its own but might contain spoilers for previous books. The Fire Apprentice contains love scenes and a heroine with pelvic floor pain.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fiction, Cozy Fantasy

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 18, 2025

About the author

Subscribe to my romance mailing list at https://janebuehler.com

Subscribe to my very sporadic other news: http://emilybuehler.com

Here's my short, third-person bio: "When asked what she'd be when she grew up, Emily always answered, an artist. An enthusiastic high school chemistry teacher, however, led Emily to study chemistry in college. After earning her PhD, Emily became a bread baker, which led to her first book, Bread Science. While writing Somewhere and Nowhere, the memoir of her cross-country bicycle trip, she realized that her childhood inklings were correct, and she was meant to be a writer. She currently writes cozy romantasy as Jane Buehler."

I only rate books if I can give 4 or 5 stars. If I feel compelled to review a book I didn't like, I leave off the star rating. I wish the rating meant "is a good fit for Emily" but because it seems to be taken as "is good or bad" I just don't feel comfortable giving another author 3 or less stars.

I'd love you to reach out to me on Goodreads, but I'm slightly technologically confused, so if I don't reply in the proper way, it's probably because I don't know what I'm doing.

Reviews

[Shelby Gee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy fantasy romance! Jane and Rowan’s romance novel was cute and had enough twists and turns to keep it exciting. Perfect for cozy readers who don’t want a lot of drama! I like that the plot revolved around Jane’s growth but also the other characters. The author included a heroine with pelvic floor issues for needed representation in romance novels!
I have not read the other books in the series and was still able to follow along.
The writing at times was clunky and more telling than showing.
I received an ARC.

[Emily Buehler]

I introduced Jane in book 1 of this series and then left her hanging. I wanted her to reach a happy ending but kept hitting a wall until I imagined her in a grumpy/sunshine pairing.

I’d been considering writing a heroine with pelvic floor issues that cause pain, and the condition seemed to fit with Jane, who’s so cheery on the outside but hiding much worry and frustration. I’d never seen pelvic floor issues addressed in a romance novel and thought they should be because they are not uncommon and people with such issues can often feel isolated. The topic also got me thinking about the types of love scenes that are common in cis-het M/F romance novels, and wanting to push back on the idea that one particular type is better or necessary.

I hope you like Jane and Roman’s story and their trek into the mountains. And if you finish and you’re wondering what is so special about two slugs mating, subscribing to my e-news gets you bonus content that includes a video :-)

[Coffeenbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Magical world

- Grumpy/sunshine

- Single mother

- Dragons

This book was a cute and cozy read, perfect for a weekend. I have not read the other books in this series, but was able to follow along with the storyline without issues.

Jane is a single mother who has already had to bring back her daughter from her former boyfriend, Cedric, a fairy who deceived her for their entire relationship. Now, living in a small village, Jane just wants to find love.

She introduces herself to the newest blacksmith apprentice and is pleased that he seems interested in her. But before they can do more than exchange a few words, a dragon appears in the village and heads straight for Jane's house! The dragon has taken her daughter and the apprentice reveals himself to be a fairy that can assist.

As Jane and Rowan journey to the dragon's lair, Jane finds out that Rowan knows her former boyfriend and feels quite contrite for his role in the deception. But Rowan is not like Cedric and Jane finds herself drawn to him.

This low angst, cozy romantic fantasy is a perfect quick read. Highly recommended!

[Gee.Tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, cosy and twisty, The Fire Apprentice is a grumpy/sunshine pairing perfect for readers that love low angst fantasy books.
Unlucky in love single mother, Jane, and blacksmith apprentice Rowan are thrown together when a dragon kidnaps Jane’s half-fae daughter, Elle. Somewhat triggered by the fact that Elle’s fae father had previously attempted to steal her away, Jane charges after the dragon accompanied by Rowan who has knowledge of the mountains where dragons live. As Jane and Rowan embark on their rescue mission adventures abound and sparks fly.
Buehler’s writing is beautifully descriptive, and her characters are vivid and complex. Jane is a relatable, resilient FMC who, despite past experiences, is still a romantic at heart. Her and Rowan make an adorable couple and despite his grumpy exterior, Rowan really is a cinnamon roll.
I enjoyed The Fire Apprentice, it was the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, romance and adventure. I haven't read the previous books in the series but I certainly will.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ems_booknook · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went into this one expecting a cozy romance, and ended up with so much more than just a cozy romance.

I really enjoyed the plot of the dragons and the fairy children learning magic and having a role to play inside that world - I do wish I’d seen a lot more of that because it was really interesting and finding about more about the magic system and how it fits into the world would have been fantastic. The focus in the book is primarily the romantic aspect.

I like the inclusion and representation of women with sexual issues and pain during intercourse and in the end I did find it was addressed really well and the MMC was super respectful which was nice, there was also the coverage of her previous partner being inconsiderate of that which made the situation well rounded, however I found I wanted more plot of the sexual nature of the book.

All in all, if you’re looking for something easy and spicy to read, this one is a good one!

Thank you to booksirens and the author for this review copy!

[Lupita_333 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked reading -The fire apprentice-. It was entertaining to read about Jane and Rowan’s journey to track down Jane’s daughter who was taken by a dragon.

This great story has incredible representation for pain with penetration / pelvic floor issues. The author did an amazing job with creating a relatable character, Jane, that many can relate to, including myself. Jane is a resilient character that doesn’t give up easily.

Rowan might be one of my favorite characters that’s I’ve read so far this year. Rowan was such a gentleman and very understanding of the pain Jane faced. He did everything possible to make intimacy not only enjoyable for the both of them but he also helped her discover new ways to explore intimacy without her experiencing pain. The spice scenes were enjoyable and original.

The only thing I wasn’t a fan of personally was the insta lust Jane developed and how often she thought of tumbling.

Thank you BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Tasya Tsygankova · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars book delivering on exactly what it promised! A low-angst / low-stress-but-still-with-its-fair-bit-of-twists adventure romance (check ✅), a heroine with often-not-described pelvic floor limitations (check ✅), and a beautifully evolved relationship built on foundations of trust and respect and learning to believe in yourself and your worth (check ✅). I loved loved LOVED Jane and Rowan's wholesome teasing / banter and the dragon storylines and even having not read any of the other books in the series, felt the background / story-building exposition was justtttt right.

Could there have been less walking around the forest? Maybe. Could it have had more spicy scenes? Also maybe. But it was also perfect on what it delivered, so I can't complain! Aside: I found this author / book through her interview at the Smart Podcast, Trashy Books podcast, and appreciated hearing about her thoughtfulness to writing her characters and conflicts, which made the reading experience even better. Would recommend to any cozy romantasy fans!

[Autumn Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an early copy of The Fire Apprentice from the author, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I was new to the Sylvania world and had not read any of the previous books, but I still had an easy time understanding the world and following the characters' backstories.

The main character, Jane, is a relatable single mom who has been unlucky with romance. Despite her traumatic past, she's still a positive force and a romantic at heart. When a dragon takes her half-fae daughter, it's Rowan, the broody (and just her type) town blacksmith's apprentice, who helps her traverse the mountain path to rescue her daughter. Rowan is exactly the kind-hearted, protective male she's been dreaming about. But can she overcome her traumatic past to love and be loved again?

If you love cozy romance, dragons, non-toxic MMCs, and a sprinkling of spice, you should definitely read The Fire Apprentice!

[Cyd Adger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! A happily ever after, with lots of action, adventure, and emotions. All Jane ever wanted was to be loved for being self. Can't a woman be a little selfish! No need to gossip on her account, she will get what she sets out to get… one way or another… or so she thinks. This book will take you on a wild adventure from the tallest mountain to underground caverns. From daydreaming of your knight and shining armor to fighting for your life. From chasing your own dreams to making other people's dreams comes true. There is plenty of ups and downs in Jane's life, and though she is the main character of the book and the leading lady in her own life, there are other, stronger, handsome-r things that will entice her down different paths. I definitely recommend this book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Krystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a cozy fantasy romance with a mix of adventure. Jane and Rowan are such a sweet couple and honestly the story is such a good read for anyone looking for a quick adventure and a good man. The grumy man and fabulous sunshine woman is written well, their relationship was so fun and I enjoyed reading about the other characters as well. I feel like we learned a lot about them individually which was lovely.

Writing style wise, there were times where I felt like the writing was too direct. And sometimes the sentences were kinda short and choppy that I didn't have the chance to visualize anything because the moment came to an end so quickly. Overall, I really did enjoy the plot and I enjoyed how she writes romance.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[K.A. Hough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like each of the Sylvania books, Buehler's newest release is lush with gorgeous descriptions, complex and conflicted characters, and more than a little heat! (I also absolutely love that she provides her readers the choice of a PG-level option for each of her novels, on her website.)

Interwoven with fairy fantasy elements, her characters show real human challenges, fears, and dysfunctions both mental and physical, and she writes lovely, often humorous, exchanges that ground and normalize the ever-present themes of consent and sex, within a framework of Schitt's Creek-type sensibilities: individuals have different orientations (sometimes fluid), sex is everywhere, and it doesn't raise any eyebrows in this world, a place of acceptance and equality.

Back to the spice: always inventive, creative, and humorous. I love these books.

[Abigail McKinney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy, Low Angst, Fantasy, Adventure, Romance. Jane is a single mom, unlucky in love, who deeply mistrusts fairies because of her ex, who tricked her got her pregnant then stole her baby (she got the baby back). Rowan is a socially awkward, kind of broody fairy who is looking out for Jane and her daughter, and when a dragon turns up they go on an adventure into the woods together.

Rowan is a grump, but actually he’s such a softie and a good caretaker and so understanding of Jane and what she needs. I love the calm steady affection he gives, even though he’s a little unsure of himself. These two have an adventure through the woods while opening up their vulnerabilities to each other and a sprinkling of spice. Very cozy, and a good time- a great escape to a lightly magical world without the heavy lifting of extreme world building

** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**

[Bookish Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been eagerly awaiting Jane’s story, and The Fire Apprentice did not disappoint! It’s refreshing to see a heroine like Jane, whose journey includes navigating life with pelvic floor pain—something rarely represented in fantasy. Her strength, resilience, and emotional depth make her an incredibly compelling protagonist. And then there’s Rowan—such a cinnamon roll hero! His kindness, patience, and unwavering support make him the perfect match for Jane, and his bond with Elle adds even more warmth to the story. The cozy fantasy setting is beautifully crafted, making this book a comforting, heartwarming read. I absolutely loved it! Such a great series I definitely recommend! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.

[Karen Eisenbrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun, sex-positive fantasy romance, brimming with cozy charm and humor, as well as adventure and peril in a fairy-tale world where fairies and dragons aren’t always the villains. It also frankly (and steamily) addresses an issue not typically found in the genre: a woman who longs for physical intimacy but finds intercourse painful.

Jane and Rowan make an interesting pair. She’s attracted to him, but doesn’t trust him because he’s a fairy; her history with her half-fairy daughter Elle’s father has soured her on the whole lot of them. Rowan is reserved and withdrawn due to his own history, but capable and kind to the point of volunteering to find and speak to the dragon that carried Elle away. Their growing trust and affection as they hike and climb was sweet to follow. I also liked that they each had a chance to be the rescuer, and that each guided and encouraged the other to follow abandoned dreams. Their intimate scenes are spicy and creative, demonstrating that there are many ways to satisfy a partner. Extra points for examples of affirmative consent!

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this as a fifth entry in the Sylvania series, it had that element that I enjoyed from the previous books in this world. I was invested in what was happening and thought the fairy tale retelling worked well in the story. Jane Buehler has a strong writing style and was able to create characters that I was invested in and was glad it was so well done.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Space Station Mir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend to lovers of cozy open-door romantasy! Can definitely be read as a standalone or part of the series Read my full review here: https://mirisaspacestation.blogspot.c...

[Alba Dorado · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed reading this! There isn't only cozy romance but also dragons and fairy children learning magic. The main characters - Jane and MMC - are relatable and sweet.

[Joanna C · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good book perfect for young readers. The story keeps you entertained.