What do you think?
Rate this book
The Firestone Academy #3
Taste of Thorns
Return to the dangerous halls of Firestone Academy, where romance burns as fiercely as magic, and threats lurk around every corner.
The truth may come at a price but I’m more than willing to pay it.
Secrets have been spilled and forces unveiled. I’m stronger than I ever imagined and beginning to believe that fate has bound me to these powerful men for a reason.
To expose the truth.
All I have to do is harness this new ability and untangle the web of lies suffocating the academy.
Then with the Princes by my side, I’m going to trap the monsters prowling through the shadows of the academy before anyone else is taken from me.
And what bait am I going to use to lure the biggest monster of them all?
Me.
The truth may come at a price but I’m more than willing to pay it.
Secrets have been spilled and forces unveiled. I’m stronger than I ever imagined and beginning to believe that fate has bound me to these powerful men for a reason.
To expose the truth.
All I have to do is harness this new ability and untangle the web of lies suffocating the academy.
Then with the Princes by my side, I’m going to trap the monsters prowling through the shadows of the academy before anyone else is taken from me.
And what bait am I going to use to lure the biggest monster of them all?
Me.
405 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2025
1045 people are currently reading
665 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Haze
55 books1,585 followersI'm Hannah Haze, a why choose paranormal romance author known for my sweet omegaverse books and not so sweet magical academy series. If you enjoy a touch of humour, a lot of steam and plenty of swoony, romantic moments; strong fmcs who know what they want and mmcs who vary from the devoted to obsessive, then I am the woman for you!
My other loves include long romantic walks in the countryside, undisturbed soaks in a hot bath and even hotter stories. I have one husband, three children, a very naughty cat and a new fluffy pupster. When I’m not writing stories, I’m thinking about stories, listening to stories, reading stories or dreaming about them.
Come follow me or get in touch!
Sign up to my newsletter: www.hannahhaze.com/about
Join my readers' group: www.facebook.com/groups/375024943829423/
Visit my website: www.hannahhaze.com
Catch me on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@hannahhaze_author
My other loves include long romantic walks in the countryside, undisturbed soaks in a hot bath and even hotter stories. I have one husband, three children, a very naughty cat and a new fluffy pupster. When I’m not writing stories, I’m thinking about stories, listening to stories, reading stories or dreaming about them.
Come follow me or get in touch!
Sign up to my newsletter: www.hannahhaze.com/about
Join my readers' group: www.facebook.com/groups/375024943829423/
Visit my website: www.hannahhaze.com
Catch me on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@hannahhaze_author
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
January 12, 2026
I think I’m finally done with this series.
The story itself had a lot of promise, and the core concept was genuinely interesting. There were moments where I thought, okay yes, here we go, but unfortunately those moments were far too short and buried under a lot of unnecessary filler.
Reading this felt like flipping through endless filters just to get to the main scene and once you finally reach it, it’s over far too quickly. Instead of building momentum, the story kept dragging, circling the same points, and never quite moving forward at the pace it needed.
Honestly, this entire story could have been told in two books. By the time we reached book three, my interest was already gone. At this point, I no longer care what happens next with Briony or the princes, which is disappointing because I wanted to.With stronger editing, tighter pacing, and less repetition, this could have been something really good. As it stands, it just felt stretched out and unfocused, and I’m choosing to stop here.
Verdict: Interesting concept, but poor pacing and too much filler. I’m officially done with the series.
The story itself had a lot of promise, and the core concept was genuinely interesting. There were moments where I thought, okay yes, here we go, but unfortunately those moments were far too short and buried under a lot of unnecessary filler.
Reading this felt like flipping through endless filters just to get to the main scene and once you finally reach it, it’s over far too quickly. Instead of building momentum, the story kept dragging, circling the same points, and never quite moving forward at the pace it needed.
Honestly, this entire story could have been told in two books. By the time we reached book three, my interest was already gone. At this point, I no longer care what happens next with Briony or the princes, which is disappointing because I wanted to.With stronger editing, tighter pacing, and less repetition, this could have been something really good. As it stands, it just felt stretched out and unfocused, and I’m choosing to stop here.
Verdict: Interesting concept, but poor pacing and too much filler. I’m officially done with the series.
November 17, 2025
This one caused me a lot of anxiety for some reason and that ending made me want to throw up. A couple of times, actually. I'm too tired to put too much effort into this, but book good. I like dragon. I like Professor Fox. Yup.
December 16, 2025
Un tome avec sa légion de scènes de smut, peut-être un peu trop surfait et cliché, mais ça matche avec moi parce que les révélations qui se dévoilent me paraissent plaisantes. Briony est au centre maintenant d'un terrible complot qui ne visait pas qu'elle, car notre demoiselle est bien plus qu'elle n'y parait. Mais, je n'en dis pas plus. J'aime beaucoup Blaze et j'espère qu'il aura un véritable rôle à jouer par la suite.
Le harem inversé est formé et si je dois avoir une préférence, elle ira vers le personnage de Thorne. Je ne suis pas trop fan de Fox. Je le trouve superficiel. Il manque de développement à mon goût. Quant aux méchants... bin, ils sont méchants... et très clichés. Mais bref...
Cela ne m'a pas empêché de dévorer ce 3e tome comme les deux premiers. Même si l'univers manque de profondeur, j'aime bien la plume de Hannah Haze. Je serai donc au rendez-vous avec la suite.
Le harem inversé est formé et si je dois avoir une préférence, elle ira vers le personnage de Thorne. Je ne suis pas trop fan de Fox. Je le trouve superficiel. Il manque de développement à mon goût. Quant aux méchants... bin, ils sont méchants... et très clichés. Mais bref...
Cela ne m'a pas empêché de dévorer ce 3e tome comme les deux premiers. Même si l'univers manque de profondeur, j'aime bien la plume de Hannah Haze. Je serai donc au rendez-vous avec la suite.
December 7, 2025
TL;DR: Spicy scenes felt forced and awkward. Slow story with friend filler moments in between, making it EXTRA slow. Big reveal sucks too.
Some of the spicy scenes feel like they were added just for the sake of having them. A few of them even come across as a bit awkward. The spicy scenes feel like they were pulling me away from the actual story while also not deepening the chemistry between the characters, which honestly made the spicy scenes a bit annoying.
As for the FMC, I’m glad that she has gained more confidence and set higher goals for herself than just going back to Slate quarter, but she has suddenly become more impulsive and stupid in this book. I don’t even know where all this stupidity came from, but maybe that’s my fault. She spent basically two books being possibly the worst detective ever and not finding out anything about her sister’s death. I should have realized that this level of stupidity was always within her. She just needed some confidence and a good fuck for the stupidity to reveal itself. Also, I feel like she had more chemistry with the MMCs when she didn’t like them than she does now. She had more spark then, which has fizzled out and made her boring in this book. That said, there are still moments where she stands her ground that I do appreciate very much. She flat-out refuses to wear the collar once again, which makes me very happy. I was wary about how that issue would be handled, so I was happy to see her hold onto some of her independence there. Like yessss, stand your ground. Don’t go to his self-righteous ass. Make him drop his own ego and come to you. That man received almost everything he wanted. He needs to put some effort in to get her.
The big reveal of feels a little anticlimactic, especially since it comes out of nowhere through Like what’s the point of all the work that FMC put in to discover the truth if was going to reveal it all in the end? However,
And finally, the FMC’s friends continue to not really grab my attention. Their conversations often feel like filler scenes rather than meaningful interactions, which make those sections drag a bit between the more plot-heavy moments with the MMCs (when they're not having pointless sex).
Would I Recommend?: No
Some of the spicy scenes feel like they were added just for the sake of having them. A few of them even come across as a bit awkward. The spicy scenes feel like they were pulling me away from the actual story while also not deepening the chemistry between the characters, which honestly made the spicy scenes a bit annoying.
As for the FMC, I’m glad that she has gained more confidence and set higher goals for herself than just going back to Slate quarter, but she has suddenly become more impulsive and stupid in this book. I don’t even know where all this stupidity came from, but maybe that’s my fault. She spent basically two books being possibly the worst detective ever and not finding out anything about her sister’s death. I should have realized that this level of stupidity was always within her. She just needed some confidence and a good fuck for the stupidity to reveal itself. Also, I feel like she had more chemistry with the MMCs when she didn’t like them than she does now. She had more spark then, which has fizzled out and made her boring in this book. That said, there are still moments where she stands her ground that I do appreciate very much. She flat-out refuses to wear the collar once again, which makes me very happy. I was wary about how that issue would be handled, so I was happy to see her hold onto some of her independence there. Like yessss, stand your ground. Don’t go to his self-righteous ass. Make him drop his own ego and come to you. That man received almost everything he wanted. He needs to put some effort in to get her.
The big reveal of feels a little anticlimactic, especially since it comes out of nowhere through Like what’s the point of all the work that FMC put in to discover the truth if was going to reveal it all in the end? However,
And finally, the FMC’s friends continue to not really grab my attention. Their conversations often feel like filler scenes rather than meaningful interactions, which make those sections drag a bit between the more plot-heavy moments with the MMCs (when they're not having pointless sex).
Would I Recommend?: No
February 4, 2026
3⭐️ Nicht so gut wie der 2. Teil, aber immer noch ganz okay. Werde ich mich in ner Woche noch genau an den Plot erinnern? Wahrscheinlich nicht 🤷🏻♀️
February 13, 2026
Questo libro è stato veramente noioso, una storia che si trascina per tutto il tempo, fino ad arrivare ad un finale sottotono e prevedibile.
Un sacco di capitoli in cui non succede niente, con azioni, concetti, parole e pensieri ripetuti continuamente, messi lì solo per riempire pagine.
I personaggi non hanno una crescita, Fox e Thorne ci sta, in fondo non hanno neanche una vera e propria caratterizzazione, ma Dry a questo punto è diventato solo fastidioso, il suo carattere giocherellone andava bene all'inizio, faceva da cuscinetto ai caratteri più ruvidi del gruppo, ma arrivati al terzo libro sembra che il suo unico scopo sia solo quello di gridare a quattro venti quanto sia buona e bagnata la fi@a della sua schiava.
Beaufort a questo punto della storia blatera ancora di schiava e collare, cosa che era già irritante nel primo libro, visto che quella era la loro compagna non una schiava, ma ora rende necessario farsi 2 domande sulle capacità cognitive di questo personaggio.
L'unica che ha una vera crescita è Briony, ma cresce solo in stupidità, talmente tanto che è quasi arrivata a sfiorare il limite di idiozia accettabile, oltre il quale non si può fare altro che chiudere il libro e buttarlo da qualche parte.
Le scene di sesso, varie e sparse per tutto il libro, sono anch'esse molto noiose, perché tutte uguali, a prescindere dal ragazzo con cui sta la protagonista, questi dirà e farà le stesse cose di quello che l'ha preceduto e di quello che gli succederà.
Mi aspettavo uno di quei finali trappola, che ti agganciano e ti incuriosiscono talmente tanto da " costringerti " a leggere immediatamente il seguito ( cosa di cui questo libro aveva assolutamente bisogno, visto quanto sia povero di contenuti ), invece come ho detto è stato insignificante e ampiamente prevedibile.
Al momento non mi sento abbastanza stimolata da leggere il quarto libro, forse all'uscita dell'ultimo tra qualche settimana potrei decidermi a finire la serie.
Un sacco di capitoli in cui non succede niente, con azioni, concetti, parole e pensieri ripetuti continuamente, messi lì solo per riempire pagine.
I personaggi non hanno una crescita, Fox e Thorne ci sta, in fondo non hanno neanche una vera e propria caratterizzazione, ma Dry a questo punto è diventato solo fastidioso, il suo carattere giocherellone andava bene all'inizio, faceva da cuscinetto ai caratteri più ruvidi del gruppo, ma arrivati al terzo libro sembra che il suo unico scopo sia solo quello di gridare a quattro venti quanto sia buona e bagnata la fi@a della sua schiava.
Beaufort a questo punto della storia blatera ancora di schiava e collare, cosa che era già irritante nel primo libro, visto che quella era la loro compagna non una schiava, ma ora rende necessario farsi 2 domande sulle capacità cognitive di questo personaggio.
L'unica che ha una vera crescita è Briony, ma cresce solo in stupidità, talmente tanto che è quasi arrivata a sfiorare il limite di idiozia accettabile, oltre il quale non si può fare altro che chiudere il libro e buttarlo da qualche parte.
Le scene di sesso, varie e sparse per tutto il libro, sono anch'esse molto noiose, perché tutte uguali, a prescindere dal ragazzo con cui sta la protagonista, questi dirà e farà le stesse cose di quello che l'ha preceduto e di quello che gli succederà.
Mi aspettavo uno di quei finali trappola, che ti agganciano e ti incuriosiscono talmente tanto da " costringerti " a leggere immediatamente il seguito ( cosa di cui questo libro aveva assolutamente bisogno, visto quanto sia povero di contenuti ), invece come ho detto è stato insignificante e ampiamente prevedibile.
Al momento non mi sento abbastanza stimolata da leggere il quarto libro, forse all'uscita dell'ultimo tra qualche settimana potrei decidermi a finire la serie.
October 4, 2025
I am convinced every book by Hannah Haze leaves me wanting more! This book had me STRESSED and that cliffy is killer! I love these characters, this story, and Blaze!
Tropes:
Why choose
Fated mates
Forbidden romance
Tension
Tropes:
Why choose
Fated mates
Forbidden romance
Tension
October 6, 2025
The plot thickens! It was a fun continuation and I am looking forward to book 4. I feel like this book was less spicy than the others? Maybe? Fox is still my least favorite of the 4 guys tho.
January 9, 2026
Nothing new happens until the end of the book. Kind of slow and felt dragged on. More a filler book.
November 5, 2025
the fact that Beaufort let another girl stuck her tongue down his throat and didn't even push her away, let her walk around holding his arm and felt pity for her when he knows he's bullying his fated mate and wrote SLUT on her door. this was really disgusting and disappointing, the male lead treated his ex better than his girl. idk why the author seemed to love cheating but it's weird
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2025
2.6⭐️
I don't know. I just don't know.
Did I think this was good? No.
Did I like it? No.
Did I like any of the characters? Not really. Okay, that's a lie. I liked Blaze.
Did I enjoy the writing style? Not really.
Did I finish it anyway? Yes.
Why?
I have no idea.
Just like the rest of the series, and all books I've read by this author, I feel the need to finish them. Like I said, I don't care much for the writing or the characters or even the plot, but it's like I can't not know what happens. I don't know what it is.
Briony stresses me out. The things she say and do and just everything about her stresses me out. I don't dislike her exactly, but I also don't like her.
Also the spicy scenes just made me uncomfortable. Like really uncomfortable. That might just be a me thing, but I did not like it. At all. And the way they describe how she smells down there? No. Just no. I don't care if you're a werewolf or vampire, it does not smell like heaven down there after sweating for hours. It just doesn't.
And some of the "plot twists" (I think that's what they were anyway) were so obvious, like even I, the most oblivious reader there is, noticed way before they were revealed. Maybe I'm getting smarter. I doubt it but you know, there's always a chance.
All in all, I'm reading the next book despite not liking any of the pervious ones. I think I'm addicted. Help
I don't know. I just don't know.
Did I think this was good? No.
Did I like it? No.
Did I like any of the characters? Not really. Okay, that's a lie. I liked Blaze.
Did I enjoy the writing style? Not really.
Did I finish it anyway? Yes.
Why?
I have no idea.
Just like the rest of the series, and all books I've read by this author, I feel the need to finish them. Like I said, I don't care much for the writing or the characters or even the plot, but it's like I can't not know what happens. I don't know what it is.
Briony stresses me out. The things she say and do and just everything about her stresses me out. I don't dislike her exactly, but I also don't like her.
Also the spicy scenes just made me uncomfortable. Like really uncomfortable. That might just be a me thing, but I did not like it. At all. And the way they describe how she smells down there? No. Just no. I don't care if you're a werewolf or vampire, it does not smell like heaven down there after sweating for hours. It just doesn't.
And some of the "plot twists" (I think that's what they were anyway) were so obvious, like even I, the most oblivious reader there is, noticed way before they were revealed. Maybe I'm getting smarter. I doubt it but you know, there's always a chance.
All in all, I'm reading the next book despite not liking any of the pervious ones. I think I'm addicted. Help
September 28, 2025
First what an honor to receive an ARC copy!
Second, Holy shit!!! I don’t know where I thought this book was going but just wow! I feel even more emerged in the world and excited to continue. Every time I think i know where the plot is going, I’m turned a different way. Every time I chose not to question my original thoughts I’m thrown another loop. All that being said….i need book 4 immediately pleas and thank you :)
Second, Holy shit!!! I don’t know where I thought this book was going but just wow! I feel even more emerged in the world and excited to continue. Every time I think i know where the plot is going, I’m turned a different way. Every time I chose not to question my original thoughts I’m thrown another loop. All that being said….i need book 4 immediately pleas and thank you :)
October 12, 2025
From start to finish was just a bit….. meh. This felt like a filler book and the story could have been finished up but still a good read. The FMC is a little annoying but in a way she has to be for all the world building and magic system.
Spice ✔️
Supernatural shadow daddies ✔️
Mystery ✔️
I look forward to seeing how the story ends ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice ✔️
Supernatural shadow daddies ✔️
Mystery ✔️
I look forward to seeing how the story ends ⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 22, 2026
It feels as though the author sat down with a list of every trending BookTok tag and refused to hit "publish" until every single one was checked off.
The result is what can only be described as a Paranormal Buffet. The narrative is cluttered with vampires, dragons, nebulous magic systems, and the inevitable "shadow-weavers." When an author introduces one of these elements, it usually requires careful integration into the lore. When they introduce all of them, the world feels less like a cohesive universe and more like a high-budget costume party where nobody knows why they’re there.
Also it is impossible to care about the stakes when the goalposts are constantly being moved.
This approach extends to the relationship dynamics, which are a chaotic slurry of:
* Fated Mates: The ultimate shortcut for actual character development.
* Thrall and Reverse Harem: To ensure the protagonist is never without a constant stream of validation.
* Questionable Power Dynamics: Including a student-teacher relationship that feels more predatory than provocative.
The fundamental issue is that when you use every trope, none of them matter. The "enemies-to-lovers" tension—the very engine that drives the genre—is completely DOA. Why bother with the delicious, slow-burn agony of two people overcoming their differences when a magical "mate" bond does all the heavy lifting?
The mark of a great romance is that you would want to see the characters talk even if they weren't allowed to touch. In this series, if you took away the physical contact, the characters would have nothing to say to one another.
The leads are not people; they are cardboard cutouts designed to react to the FMC. There is zero genuine connection or chemistry between them because they lack distinct personalities. Instead of building a relationship through dialogue, shared trauma, or intellectual compatibility, the author relies on two crutches:
1. Endless, Unskilled Smut
The "spice" in this series is plentiful, but it is also repetitive. We are subjected to chapters upon chapters of sexual encounters where the FMC possesses what can only be described as a biological superpower to reach climax every two minutes, and every male character's sole personality trait is an all-consuming desire to sleep with her or protect her! By the middle of Book Two, these scenes lose all impact and become "skip-ahead" material.
2. Problematic Behavior Framed as Romance
Perhaps the most jarring element is the reliance on toxic power dynamics. Controlling behavior, stalking and harassment are never properly addressed or critiqued. Instead, they are framed as "hot."
World-Building (or Lack Thereof)---
In Firestone Academy series, we are forced to wait until this installment just to understand some basic mechanics of how the world functions,still not enough. The first two books are spent wandering through a haze of vague descriptions and generic settings that feel like they were pulled from a "Fantasy 101" screensaver.
The "Copy-Paste" Feel---
Reading this series is an exercise in literary déjà vu. Every scene feels like a diluted, "Great Value" version of a more famous, better-written fantasy series.
* The shadow-weaving is a direct, less-interesting lift from A Court of Thorns and Roses or Fourth Wing
* The dragon lore feels like a simplified echo of Fourth Wing
*The academy setting and the trials could be any of the "dark academia" novels,would dare to say even Harry Potter
* The political court intrigue reads like a spark-notes version of The Cruel Prince.
The lack of originality is more than just a minor annoyance; it’s a distraction. It’s a patchwork quilt of other authors' ideas without a single unique thread of its own. When you can see the seams where one author's idea ends and another's begins, the "immersion" of the story is shattered.
One Book Stretched Into Three---
If there is one phrase that defines this series, it is "This could have been an email." Or, more accurately, "This could have been a standalone novel."
This series is the definition of filler. The entire 1,000+ page saga could have been condensed into one tight, 350-page novel without losing a single relevant plot point. Instead, the reader is subjected to:
* Repetitive Inner Monologues
* Circular Arguments
* Unskillful smut
The bloat serves no purpose other than to fulfill a publishing contract or to capitalize on the trend of "chonky" fantasy books.
Final Verdict---
I’ll admit it: I love to hate this series. There is a certain guilty pleasure in seeing how far a story can lean into its own absurdity. However, I’d love it significantly more if I hadn't wasted the dozen or so hours.
If you are looking for a fantasy romance that offers a unique world to get lost in, keep looking. Go find the books this one is trying to copy; you’ll have a much better time. This series isn't a story; it's a product, and unfortunately, it's one that has been past its expiration date since page one.
If you are looking though for something free in your Kobo plus account to play in the background,go for it, you might even enjoy it!
The result is what can only be described as a Paranormal Buffet. The narrative is cluttered with vampires, dragons, nebulous magic systems, and the inevitable "shadow-weavers." When an author introduces one of these elements, it usually requires careful integration into the lore. When they introduce all of them, the world feels less like a cohesive universe and more like a high-budget costume party where nobody knows why they’re there.
Also it is impossible to care about the stakes when the goalposts are constantly being moved.
This approach extends to the relationship dynamics, which are a chaotic slurry of:
* Fated Mates: The ultimate shortcut for actual character development.
* Thrall and Reverse Harem: To ensure the protagonist is never without a constant stream of validation.
* Questionable Power Dynamics: Including a student-teacher relationship that feels more predatory than provocative.
The fundamental issue is that when you use every trope, none of them matter. The "enemies-to-lovers" tension—the very engine that drives the genre—is completely DOA. Why bother with the delicious, slow-burn agony of two people overcoming their differences when a magical "mate" bond does all the heavy lifting?
The mark of a great romance is that you would want to see the characters talk even if they weren't allowed to touch. In this series, if you took away the physical contact, the characters would have nothing to say to one another.
The leads are not people; they are cardboard cutouts designed to react to the FMC. There is zero genuine connection or chemistry between them because they lack distinct personalities. Instead of building a relationship through dialogue, shared trauma, or intellectual compatibility, the author relies on two crutches:
1. Endless, Unskilled Smut
The "spice" in this series is plentiful, but it is also repetitive. We are subjected to chapters upon chapters of sexual encounters where the FMC possesses what can only be described as a biological superpower to reach climax every two minutes, and every male character's sole personality trait is an all-consuming desire to sleep with her or protect her! By the middle of Book Two, these scenes lose all impact and become "skip-ahead" material.
2. Problematic Behavior Framed as Romance
Perhaps the most jarring element is the reliance on toxic power dynamics. Controlling behavior, stalking and harassment are never properly addressed or critiqued. Instead, they are framed as "hot."
World-Building (or Lack Thereof)---
In Firestone Academy series, we are forced to wait until this installment just to understand some basic mechanics of how the world functions,still not enough. The first two books are spent wandering through a haze of vague descriptions and generic settings that feel like they were pulled from a "Fantasy 101" screensaver.
The "Copy-Paste" Feel---
Reading this series is an exercise in literary déjà vu. Every scene feels like a diluted, "Great Value" version of a more famous, better-written fantasy series.
* The shadow-weaving is a direct, less-interesting lift from A Court of Thorns and Roses or Fourth Wing
* The dragon lore feels like a simplified echo of Fourth Wing
*The academy setting and the trials could be any of the "dark academia" novels,would dare to say even Harry Potter
* The political court intrigue reads like a spark-notes version of The Cruel Prince.
The lack of originality is more than just a minor annoyance; it’s a distraction. It’s a patchwork quilt of other authors' ideas without a single unique thread of its own. When you can see the seams where one author's idea ends and another's begins, the "immersion" of the story is shattered.
One Book Stretched Into Three---
If there is one phrase that defines this series, it is "This could have been an email." Or, more accurately, "This could have been a standalone novel."
This series is the definition of filler. The entire 1,000+ page saga could have been condensed into one tight, 350-page novel without losing a single relevant plot point. Instead, the reader is subjected to:
* Repetitive Inner Monologues
* Circular Arguments
* Unskillful smut
The bloat serves no purpose other than to fulfill a publishing contract or to capitalize on the trend of "chonky" fantasy books.
Final Verdict---
I’ll admit it: I love to hate this series. There is a certain guilty pleasure in seeing how far a story can lean into its own absurdity. However, I’d love it significantly more if I hadn't wasted the dozen or so hours.
If you are looking for a fantasy romance that offers a unique world to get lost in, keep looking. Go find the books this one is trying to copy; you’ll have a much better time. This series isn't a story; it's a product, and unfortunately, it's one that has been past its expiration date since page one.
If you are looking though for something free in your Kobo plus account to play in the background,go for it, you might even enjoy it!
October 5, 2025
***** ARC Review *****
Taste of Thorns is the third book in Hannah Haze’ series The Firestone Academy, and this magical, perfect world just keeps getting better with each book I read.
Briony—our beautiful and fierce lumomancer, dragon rider, and kickass heroine, who has all those boys kneeling to her—is an absolute force of nature, and I love her to pieces. I can’t wait to see what the next book will bring her way. She’s grown so much in this one, learning so many things about herself and finally discovering what really happened to her sister. I’m just so proud of her.
And our boys… they kept conquering me in this book. And Beaufort—I have to say, I was not expecting that outcome. I believe something very special is coming our way concerning him, and I can’t wait to read it. Dray, my favorite crazy wolf shifter, just makes everything better—and definitely hotter too. I hope he gets his marks soon; he totally deserves them. Thorne—I’m really anxious to see what will happen in the future, and when they’ll finally break through this touch-starvation that just makes me sad. I believe it’s going to be one of the most special parts of the series. And Fox, our dark professor, just makes my head spin sometimes. There’s something missing, and I can’t quite figure it out.
Fly and Clare—everybody knows how much I love them. I’m so happy they’re finding love and happiness for themselves.
Now, that cliffhanger at the end… it sent my thoughts drifting in so many directions. There are so many possibilities, and I loved that. I love how this series still manages to keep me guessing about what the future will bring, while keeping me completely in love with it all the way through.
Thank you, Hannah—this is still one of my favorites of the year, and I truly believe it will remain a favorite into the next as well. Now, I’m just going to stand here impatiently waiting for Lure of Lightning (The Firestone Academy Book 4), coming in January 2026.
Most amazing tropes to expect:
🔺Reverse Harem
🔺Shadow Daddies
🔺Enemies to Lovers
🔺Magic Academy
🔺Shifters
🔺Force Proximity
🔺Fated Mates
🔺Found Family
🔺Touch Her and Die
🔺Paranormal Romance
🇵🇹- Taste of Thorns é o terceiro livro da série The Firestone Academy, de Hannah Haze, e este universo mágico não pára de melhorar.
Briony, a nossa incrível heroína, está mais forte e determinada do que nunca, uma verdadeira força da natureza. Com os novos poderes descobertos e a ajuda de Blaze, só podemos esperar coisas fantásticas.
Os rapazes continuam a conquistar: Beaufort surpreendeu-me no final, a intensidade do Dray faz dele o meu shifter lobo favorito, Thorne deixa-me ansiosa pelo que virá e Fox mantém o mistério e os cabelos em pé.
Mal posso esperar por Lure of Lightning em Janeiro de 2026!
Taste of Thorns is the third book in Hannah Haze’ series The Firestone Academy, and this magical, perfect world just keeps getting better with each book I read.
Briony—our beautiful and fierce lumomancer, dragon rider, and kickass heroine, who has all those boys kneeling to her—is an absolute force of nature, and I love her to pieces. I can’t wait to see what the next book will bring her way. She’s grown so much in this one, learning so many things about herself and finally discovering what really happened to her sister. I’m just so proud of her.
And our boys… they kept conquering me in this book. And Beaufort—I have to say, I was not expecting that outcome. I believe something very special is coming our way concerning him, and I can’t wait to read it. Dray, my favorite crazy wolf shifter, just makes everything better—and definitely hotter too. I hope he gets his marks soon; he totally deserves them. Thorne—I’m really anxious to see what will happen in the future, and when they’ll finally break through this touch-starvation that just makes me sad. I believe it’s going to be one of the most special parts of the series. And Fox, our dark professor, just makes my head spin sometimes. There’s something missing, and I can’t quite figure it out.
Fly and Clare—everybody knows how much I love them. I’m so happy they’re finding love and happiness for themselves.
Now, that cliffhanger at the end… it sent my thoughts drifting in so many directions. There are so many possibilities, and I loved that. I love how this series still manages to keep me guessing about what the future will bring, while keeping me completely in love with it all the way through.
Thank you, Hannah—this is still one of my favorites of the year, and I truly believe it will remain a favorite into the next as well. Now, I’m just going to stand here impatiently waiting for Lure of Lightning (The Firestone Academy Book 4), coming in January 2026.
Most amazing tropes to expect:
🔺Reverse Harem
🔺Shadow Daddies
🔺Enemies to Lovers
🔺Magic Academy
🔺Shifters
🔺Force Proximity
🔺Fated Mates
🔺Found Family
🔺Touch Her and Die
🔺Paranormal Romance
🇵🇹- Taste of Thorns é o terceiro livro da série The Firestone Academy, de Hannah Haze, e este universo mágico não pára de melhorar.
Briony, a nossa incrível heroína, está mais forte e determinada do que nunca, uma verdadeira força da natureza. Com os novos poderes descobertos e a ajuda de Blaze, só podemos esperar coisas fantásticas.
Os rapazes continuam a conquistar: Beaufort surpreendeu-me no final, a intensidade do Dray faz dele o meu shifter lobo favorito, Thorne deixa-me ansiosa pelo que virá e Fox mantém o mistério e os cabelos em pé.
Mal posso esperar por Lure of Lightning em Janeiro de 2026!
November 28, 2025
Slow but Great all the same
I re read the previous books. I feel we don’t get the amazing connection between the characters if I don’t and I’m so glad I did. I’ve read so many books in between the previous ones, all paranormal reverse harem and it’s hard to remember each characters personality. Beau, is the leader of their boy group (Thorne and Dray). He’s the dominate of the 3 and seems to have the most political power. We finally get to find out who his family (well his mom) is as it’s not talked about in previous books. Very influential. His mom’s political power was the icing on the cake because, Briony convinced them all that she needed to play “bait”, in order to catch Madam Bardin as the serial killer vampire. Draining magical students with little to no family or political standing from quadrants outside Onyx. Briony, still wanting to find proof her older sister was murdered is what clued her in on who it could have been. I’m so thankful that the Madame is no longer at school and she was proved right, also that all her secrets are out in the open. Well all expect that she’s the fated mate to Professor Fox Tudor (old student of Madame Bardin, she’s also the one who turned him into a vampire, which fox despises, also, he’s now the professor of the academy too. He’s supposed to report special students to Madame Bardin. Which he did at the end. I thought he was helping lay the trap to get info of what the next trial was supposed to be but there was no vocal planning of this with the other fated mates, Beau, Thorne and Dray. Then Fox disappeared. Not sure if that was by choice but Hannah Haze threw that in there as a distraction, I’m hoping he was taken but the wording used made it seem like he was working as a double agent, just like Madame Bardin, she was in cahoots with the demons the Shadow weavers fight. Thorne, they still can’t touch. Or he just refuses to, thinking his shadows will hurt and kill her. Dray, confused me at the beginning. When she told them all the truth about using light magic at the end of the trial at the end of the 2nd book, he accused Briony of double crossing them, just acting innocent and damaged. It just didn’t seem like his personality that I remembered which promoted me to re read the full 2 previous books. Once that was over, he was back to his happy go lucky self. Either way, re reading the previous books made me love this book and all the character interactions even more. Ohhh also glad to read that Linette was powerless. Can’t wait for that secret to come out!
I re read the previous books. I feel we don’t get the amazing connection between the characters if I don’t and I’m so glad I did. I’ve read so many books in between the previous ones, all paranormal reverse harem and it’s hard to remember each characters personality. Beau, is the leader of their boy group (Thorne and Dray). He’s the dominate of the 3 and seems to have the most political power. We finally get to find out who his family (well his mom) is as it’s not talked about in previous books. Very influential. His mom’s political power was the icing on the cake because, Briony convinced them all that she needed to play “bait”, in order to catch Madam Bardin as the serial killer vampire. Draining magical students with little to no family or political standing from quadrants outside Onyx. Briony, still wanting to find proof her older sister was murdered is what clued her in on who it could have been. I’m so thankful that the Madame is no longer at school and she was proved right, also that all her secrets are out in the open. Well all expect that she’s the fated mate to Professor Fox Tudor (old student of Madame Bardin, she’s also the one who turned him into a vampire, which fox despises, also, he’s now the professor of the academy too. He’s supposed to report special students to Madame Bardin. Which he did at the end. I thought he was helping lay the trap to get info of what the next trial was supposed to be but there was no vocal planning of this with the other fated mates, Beau, Thorne and Dray. Then Fox disappeared. Not sure if that was by choice but Hannah Haze threw that in there as a distraction, I’m hoping he was taken but the wording used made it seem like he was working as a double agent, just like Madame Bardin, she was in cahoots with the demons the Shadow weavers fight. Thorne, they still can’t touch. Or he just refuses to, thinking his shadows will hurt and kill her. Dray, confused me at the beginning. When she told them all the truth about using light magic at the end of the trial at the end of the 2nd book, he accused Briony of double crossing them, just acting innocent and damaged. It just didn’t seem like his personality that I remembered which promoted me to re read the full 2 previous books. Once that was over, he was back to his happy go lucky self. Either way, re reading the previous books made me love this book and all the character interactions even more. Ohhh also glad to read that Linette was powerless. Can’t wait for that secret to come out!
October 1, 2025
Where do I even begin....
Taste Of Thorns picks up just as Sparks of Sorcery concludes. Briony saves Thorne's life with the use of her gift. Yes, that's right, Briony has gifts. Her gifts are not shadow weaving. It's unique and hasn't been seen in many, many years. She starts to develop her newfound ability, but it does take time and patience, which unfortunately they don't have when constantly faced with enemy after enemy.
Briony grows closer to Fox, but something seems really off with Fox. I initially just put it down to me needing to learn more about him, but it's a lot more concerning than what I initially thought. I'm really angry at him right now, and he definitely has some explaining to do in the next book. Briony and the Princes go from strength to strength. Yes, there are some bumps in the road with Beau and Thorne, but I love that Briony is receiving that love and support that she has always deserved. She is still determined to learn what is truly going on within the Academy and what led to her sister's unaliving. She does, but it's so much more complicated. I know we'll have answers soon, but I have so many questions. I feel like this book is preparing us for what's to come because we get some insight but still left in the dark a tad.
I'm so excited to see what's next because your girl needs to know...
Shout out to Clare, Fly, and Blaze. Love you 3 so much, especially Blaze 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you so much, Hannah and your lovely team, for the opportunity to read this story. I am forever blessed to be a part of your ARC team 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
🔮 why choose
🤍 multiple pov
🔮 shifters
🤍 so many secrets
🔮 Dragons
🤍 spicy
🔮 found family
🤍 forbidden
🔮 age gap
🤍 Academy setting
Taste Of Thorns picks up just as Sparks of Sorcery concludes. Briony saves Thorne's life with the use of her gift. Yes, that's right, Briony has gifts. Her gifts are not shadow weaving. It's unique and hasn't been seen in many, many years. She starts to develop her newfound ability, but it does take time and patience, which unfortunately they don't have when constantly faced with enemy after enemy.
Briony grows closer to Fox, but something seems really off with Fox. I initially just put it down to me needing to learn more about him, but it's a lot more concerning than what I initially thought. I'm really angry at him right now, and he definitely has some explaining to do in the next book. Briony and the Princes go from strength to strength. Yes, there are some bumps in the road with Beau and Thorne, but I love that Briony is receiving that love and support that she has always deserved. She is still determined to learn what is truly going on within the Academy and what led to her sister's unaliving. She does, but it's so much more complicated. I know we'll have answers soon, but I have so many questions. I feel like this book is preparing us for what's to come because we get some insight but still left in the dark a tad.
I'm so excited to see what's next because your girl needs to know...
Shout out to Clare, Fly, and Blaze. Love you 3 so much, especially Blaze 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you so much, Hannah and your lovely team, for the opportunity to read this story. I am forever blessed to be a part of your ARC team 🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
🔮 why choose
🤍 multiple pov
🔮 shifters
🤍 so many secrets
🔮 Dragons
🤍 spicy
🔮 found family
🤍 forbidden
🔮 age gap
🤍 Academy setting
October 3, 2025
Definitely in my top 5 for 2025
"I'm not ditching you in favor of cock...I've been having lessons with Fox." -Briony
Tropes:
-Why choose
-Fated mates
-Magical academy
-MMCs with secrets
- Powerful FMC
-Elemental magic
- Dragons
- Dark academia
Review:
Hannah Haze has done it again. This is book 3 in her new series, but each book gets better. In this installment we learn some new secrets that could change everything as well as cultivating new abilities (FMC). We finally get to see the confrontation that's been building and through it, we get an answer to one of the most pivitol questions so far, but it also leads to more questions. As is common in each book so far, we watch our heroine battle threats that could possibly end her life, but she's too stubborn to quit.
The romance, while already present, starts to heat up even more and through the trials thrown at Briony, Haze does a great job of demonstrating not only Briony's growth, but also Beaufort, Thorne and Dray. The plot is face paced, but it will keep readers turning the pages, because of the high stakes and of course there's so much intrigue. Haze seamlessly blends emotionally intense character driven drama with suspense and spicy and romantic elements. In doing so, the reader will witness the MCs battle good vs evil, while the FMC deals with her own self discover and an identity shift. The aspect of found family becomes even more evident in this installment and the world building is more subtle in this book, but it does offer insights into the kingdom as well as the academy.
This book is perfect for anyone 17+ who loves a bit of mystery with their romance and also don't want to have to choose just one man.
"I'm not ditching you in favor of cock...I've been having lessons with Fox." -Briony
Tropes:
-Why choose
-Fated mates
-Magical academy
-MMCs with secrets
- Powerful FMC
-Elemental magic
- Dragons
- Dark academia
Review:
Hannah Haze has done it again. This is book 3 in her new series, but each book gets better. In this installment we learn some new secrets that could change everything as well as cultivating new abilities (FMC). We finally get to see the confrontation that's been building and through it, we get an answer to one of the most pivitol questions so far, but it also leads to more questions. As is common in each book so far, we watch our heroine battle threats that could possibly end her life, but she's too stubborn to quit.
The romance, while already present, starts to heat up even more and through the trials thrown at Briony, Haze does a great job of demonstrating not only Briony's growth, but also Beaufort, Thorne and Dray. The plot is face paced, but it will keep readers turning the pages, because of the high stakes and of course there's so much intrigue. Haze seamlessly blends emotionally intense character driven drama with suspense and spicy and romantic elements. In doing so, the reader will witness the MCs battle good vs evil, while the FMC deals with her own self discover and an identity shift. The aspect of found family becomes even more evident in this installment and the world building is more subtle in this book, but it does offer insights into the kingdom as well as the academy.
This book is perfect for anyone 17+ who loves a bit of mystery with their romance and also don't want to have to choose just one man.
December 11, 2025
I did not want to finish the Taste of Thorns, because I knew there would be a spell before the next book. It was a very easy and quick read that grabbed me from book 1 chapter 1.
Hannah is generally great at setting up the scene so we don’t have to work hard at imagining what we are reading. It is true for this series as well. For me, in a poly romance it is important that the characters have their individual personalities and characteristics, and that applies here as well. Briony is not powerful at the beginning, we actually come along for the ride as she finds out more about herself - I would say this is the slow burn in this series. I like that Briony is learning about herself but is not overpowered.
The Princes are all different and have their own journey with Briony, some further along than others. Thorne’s story is especially captivating and intriguing, specifically his situation during this book. It reminds me of an X Men character.
Truthfully, my least favorite character right now is the 4th love interest. While something is missing from their relationship, he gives a different point of view and dynamic. For some reason, I did not feel the gravity of his status at the end of the book, but I cannot explain if it is due to pacing or not enough foreshadowing for me?
The side characters are great and while they are fleshed out, it might be nice to learn or see more about them. I feel there is a lot of setup still happening before the showdown, so hopefully they will have a bigger (maybe more powerful) role.
Overall, Hannah’s books are a solid choice (especially when it comes to poly/RH) and they go on my TBR automatically. I enjoyed this a great deal.
Hannah is generally great at setting up the scene so we don’t have to work hard at imagining what we are reading. It is true for this series as well. For me, in a poly romance it is important that the characters have their individual personalities and characteristics, and that applies here as well. Briony is not powerful at the beginning, we actually come along for the ride as she finds out more about herself - I would say this is the slow burn in this series. I like that Briony is learning about herself but is not overpowered.
The Princes are all different and have their own journey with Briony, some further along than others. Thorne’s story is especially captivating and intriguing, specifically his situation during this book. It reminds me of an X Men character.
Truthfully, my least favorite character right now is the 4th love interest. While something is missing from their relationship, he gives a different point of view and dynamic. For some reason, I did not feel the gravity of his status at the end of the book, but I cannot explain if it is due to pacing or not enough foreshadowing for me?
The side characters are great and while they are fleshed out, it might be nice to learn or see more about them. I feel there is a lot of setup still happening before the showdown, so hopefully they will have a bigger (maybe more powerful) role.
Overall, Hannah’s books are a solid choice (especially when it comes to poly/RH) and they go on my TBR automatically. I enjoyed this a great deal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
This book! OMG! I absolutely loved it. I found this series recently and I’ve never been so captivated so quickly. The plot is everything, the characters? Each one brings a different element to the story and I am obsessed over it because you end up loving every single one of them.
Briony? Such a lovable FMC. I love the growth she’s had since book 1, mainly in part to the guys and her friends but more so because of her confidence in herself, it’s beautiful. She’s fiercely loyal, loves hard, and will not give up in getting justice for her sister.
Beaufort, Dray, Thorne & Fox are everything, literally everything, you could ask for in a MMC. The bond, the banter, the hotheadedness, the loyalty. I’ve really enjoyed seeing Briony open up to them, and seeing how their relationship is developing.
The plot is absolutely trancing. I couldn’t put down book 1 and 2 from the minute I picked them up, and it was the same with this one. The twists and turns and secrets just keep coming like an emotional rollercoaster and I am here for it.
Now! Can we talk about that ending?! My heart. I honestly have no words that can express how I feel right now except I know I need the next one like I need air because I NEED to know what happens next.
This is a 10/10 read. I cannot recommend it enough, so if you haven’t read this series yet, what are you waiting for?!!
Briony? Such a lovable FMC. I love the growth she’s had since book 1, mainly in part to the guys and her friends but more so because of her confidence in herself, it’s beautiful. She’s fiercely loyal, loves hard, and will not give up in getting justice for her sister.
Beaufort, Dray, Thorne & Fox are everything, literally everything, you could ask for in a MMC. The bond, the banter, the hotheadedness, the loyalty. I’ve really enjoyed seeing Briony open up to them, and seeing how their relationship is developing.
The plot is absolutely trancing. I couldn’t put down book 1 and 2 from the minute I picked them up, and it was the same with this one. The twists and turns and secrets just keep coming like an emotional rollercoaster and I am here for it.
Now! Can we talk about that ending?! My heart. I honestly have no words that can express how I feel right now except I know I need the next one like I need air because I NEED to know what happens next.
This is a 10/10 read. I cannot recommend it enough, so if you haven’t read this series yet, what are you waiting for?!!
November 6, 2025
This series is OK. I like the story idea and I like some of the characters but omg it is SLOW! Each book is about 3 months of the school year. The story itself doesnt go anywhere fast. The author just fills the gaps with lots of spice which normally im all for but I like some plot. The characters are 21 but act like 16 year olds all the way through which just makes all the spice wiered and usually with why chose they all sleep together every now whereas in this book shes with them all separately so its every other page.
I personally wish the characters had been older. I know its an academy plot but it's not normal school, its "where will we put you in life" training so could have been later in life.
The FMC is a brat. Everyone calls her it like its a good thing but I personally dont know why authors think thats a cute way to write characters nowadays. there is strong fmcs and there is winy fmcs like this one. I really struggled to like her. shes doesn't do anything until book 3. shes constantly been saved by everyone else and then complains constantly and never listens to anyone. she gets jealous when she thinks of the men with other women yet shes sleeping with 4 men 🤦🏼♀️
the one thing I do like about her is she never put on the collar. thank the lord. if she does at any point in the future I will dnf this out of principle 🤣
I do love the dragon.
I personally wish the characters had been older. I know its an academy plot but it's not normal school, its "where will we put you in life" training so could have been later in life.
The FMC is a brat. Everyone calls her it like its a good thing but I personally dont know why authors think thats a cute way to write characters nowadays. there is strong fmcs and there is winy fmcs like this one. I really struggled to like her. shes doesn't do anything until book 3. shes constantly been saved by everyone else and then complains constantly and never listens to anyone. she gets jealous when she thinks of the men with other women yet shes sleeping with 4 men 🤦🏼♀️
the one thing I do like about her is she never put on the collar. thank the lord. if she does at any point in the future I will dnf this out of principle 🤣
I do love the dragon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
Thank you to Hannah Haze for sharing this ARC with me for an honest review ❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Hannah Haze knows how to keep me hooked. Taste of Thorns takes everything I loved about the first two Firestone Academy books — the dangerous trials, the Princes, the banter, and of course the spice 🥵 — and makes it all feel even sharper.
Briony’s growth is front and center, but what really stood out to me here were the character arcs around her. Each of the Princes gets more depth, and I especially loved seeing a more vulnerable side of Thorne. His story tugged at my heart, and the way Hannah wrote his dynamic with Briony was both tender and intense. Beaufort remains the most prominent, but Dray and Fox bring their own unique energy to the mix, and Blaze (yes, the dragon!) continues to be a highlight.
The mystery and tension are stronger than ever. I felt the anxiety building with the countdown to the trials, and by the time everything came to a head, I was fully on edge. Hannah blends danger, secrets, and heat in such a seamless way that it’s impossible not to binge through it.
I didn’t love every twist, but the writing is addictive, the spice is unmatched, and the world keeps expanding in intriguing directions. A strong continuation of a series that has me impatiently waiting for book 4.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Hannah Haze knows how to keep me hooked. Taste of Thorns takes everything I loved about the first two Firestone Academy books — the dangerous trials, the Princes, the banter, and of course the spice 🥵 — and makes it all feel even sharper.
Briony’s growth is front and center, but what really stood out to me here were the character arcs around her. Each of the Princes gets more depth, and I especially loved seeing a more vulnerable side of Thorne. His story tugged at my heart, and the way Hannah wrote his dynamic with Briony was both tender and intense. Beaufort remains the most prominent, but Dray and Fox bring their own unique energy to the mix, and Blaze (yes, the dragon!) continues to be a highlight.
The mystery and tension are stronger than ever. I felt the anxiety building with the countdown to the trials, and by the time everything came to a head, I was fully on edge. Hannah blends danger, secrets, and heat in such a seamless way that it’s impossible not to binge through it.
I didn’t love every twist, but the writing is addictive, the spice is unmatched, and the world keeps expanding in intriguing directions. A strong continuation of a series that has me impatiently waiting for book 4.
September 29, 2025
Wowser what an action packed continuation of the series. Sometimes book 3 of 4 can be really dragged out but this book did not disappoint.
After finding out she has the rare power of lumomancy, Briony becomes more convinced than ever that she needs to find out who/what killed her sister. Unfortunately she gets tunnel vision to the point of informing the boys and doing sometimes reckless things in her quest for answers (I can understand why Beaufort gets frustrated with her a lot lol)
I loved that we learned more about Thornes past and his issues with contact, and also the development of his and Briony’s relationship. Dray is his usual excitable self and Beau is still looking for ways to protect Briony while keeping some pretty important secrets 🫣
Fly and Clara are great side characters who really bring out a different side to Briony and I look forward to their cameos in the last book.
Over all it was a great read with a lot of action going on and that ending leaves you wanting more. January can’t come soon enough
I am grateful to have received an eARC of this book 🥰
After finding out she has the rare power of lumomancy, Briony becomes more convinced than ever that she needs to find out who/what killed her sister. Unfortunately she gets tunnel vision to the point of informing the boys and doing sometimes reckless things in her quest for answers (I can understand why Beaufort gets frustrated with her a lot lol)
I loved that we learned more about Thornes past and his issues with contact, and also the development of his and Briony’s relationship. Dray is his usual excitable self and Beau is still looking for ways to protect Briony while keeping some pretty important secrets 🫣
Fly and Clara are great side characters who really bring out a different side to Briony and I look forward to their cameos in the last book.
Over all it was a great read with a lot of action going on and that ending leaves you wanting more. January can’t come soon enough
I am grateful to have received an eARC of this book 🥰
October 3, 2025
Returning to Firestone Academy feels like stepping back into a labyrinth of shadows every corner alive with danger, every glance laced with fire. The twists never stop coming, each revelation tightening the web of lies and betrayals until you’re gasping for more.
The FMC’s growth is breathtaking to witness once uncertain, now unyielding. She doesn’t just embrace her power, she sharpens it into a weapon, daring to offer herself as bait to the very monsters stalking her world. Watching her transformation from survivor to strategist is as seductive as it is inspiring.
And then there are the Princes, dark, dangerous, and bound to her in ways that feel as inevitable as fate itself. Together, they set the halls of Firestone ablaze with romance as fierce as the magic crackling at their fingertips.
This series is a wicked dance of secrets, seduction, and strength. Each book pulls me deeper into the academy’s shadows, and with the way this one ends, I’m desperate to see what price will be paid next.
The FMC’s growth is breathtaking to witness once uncertain, now unyielding. She doesn’t just embrace her power, she sharpens it into a weapon, daring to offer herself as bait to the very monsters stalking her world. Watching her transformation from survivor to strategist is as seductive as it is inspiring.
And then there are the Princes, dark, dangerous, and bound to her in ways that feel as inevitable as fate itself. Together, they set the halls of Firestone ablaze with romance as fierce as the magic crackling at their fingertips.
This series is a wicked dance of secrets, seduction, and strength. Each book pulls me deeper into the academy’s shadows, and with the way this one ends, I’m desperate to see what price will be paid next.
October 11, 2025
I KNEW IT!!!! Anyway,
I have been waiting for this book for what seems like ages. Ive loved both The Arrow Hart Academy and the first 2 books from this series, The Firestone Academy. While these books do have bullying, a lot of bullying, and slow burn, they are magnificent. The way they suck you in with magic and mystery and the promise of love is everything I love about a paranormal romance. Each book is left off on a huge cliffhanger that keeps you coming back. Not to mention the plot twists that are always present somewhere along the way. Briony is the etome of a badass survivor and I love her so much. Beaufort, Thorne, Dray and Fox are different than I expected. I knew Thorne was going to be my favorite. The strong silent types always are. So I'm glad to see him and Briony finally finding a way to work together. I hope they finally find a way to be able to touch each other. At this point, thats all I want.
I cant wait for the 4th and final book. I want to know how everything comes together.
I have been waiting for this book for what seems like ages. Ive loved both The Arrow Hart Academy and the first 2 books from this series, The Firestone Academy. While these books do have bullying, a lot of bullying, and slow burn, they are magnificent. The way they suck you in with magic and mystery and the promise of love is everything I love about a paranormal romance. Each book is left off on a huge cliffhanger that keeps you coming back. Not to mention the plot twists that are always present somewhere along the way. Briony is the etome of a badass survivor and I love her so much. Beaufort, Thorne, Dray and Fox are different than I expected. I knew Thorne was going to be my favorite. The strong silent types always are. So I'm glad to see him and Briony finally finding a way to work together. I hope they finally find a way to be able to touch each other. At this point, thats all I want.
I cant wait for the 4th and final book. I want to know how everything comes together.
September 30, 2025
Taste of Thorns is a fast paced book, with some plot twists and what I believe, a misleading cliffhanger. So Briony reveals the rest of her secrets to her friends and her guys. Beaufort tells his, not in my opinion secret, secret. I was sad that Bri and Thorne haven’t moved along closer yet, yes baby steps happened, but the build up is dragging. Just kiss that boy! I’ve said it more than once this book, just kiss him! (And their new nicknames for each other are so dang cute!)
I think Briony was a bit reckless in some of her “plans” or lack thereof. While it’s worked out (mostly) she needs to understand team work. She has friends now, and soul mates, teamwork is going to be key for a lot!
While Briony’s original goal about her sister’s murder is solved, she’s got a lot more on her plate than she thought possible.
So overall an exciting, fast paced book. Lots to look forward to! Very excited for Lure of Lightning!!
I think Briony was a bit reckless in some of her “plans” or lack thereof. While it’s worked out (mostly) she needs to understand team work. She has friends now, and soul mates, teamwork is going to be key for a lot!
While Briony’s original goal about her sister’s murder is solved, she’s got a lot more on her plate than she thought possible.
So overall an exciting, fast paced book. Lots to look forward to! Very excited for Lure of Lightning!!
October 2, 2025
Taste Of Thorns is the third book in the Firestone Academy series written by Hannah Haze.
💜 mysteries
💜 fated mates
💜 dragon
💜 shadow weavers
💜 🌶🌶🌶🌶 spice
This book picks up where the last book leaves off. Briony is trying to put together what happened at the trial with Fox. She’s trying to wrap her head about what she saw. Thorne in trouble and she was trying to save him. Did she? Is he ok? If he is, will he be able and willing to tell her what happened? Will she get any closer in her search to figure out what happened to her sister?
This addition to the series was so good. So much happens in this book. Not only is there character building and development but more world building is done as well. I like how we get more of Thorne’s story and we see more of him as well. I also really like Blaze’s character and how even he seems to be developing more of a personality as well. Like the last book this one ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
💜 mysteries
💜 fated mates
💜 dragon
💜 shadow weavers
💜 🌶🌶🌶🌶 spice
This book picks up where the last book leaves off. Briony is trying to put together what happened at the trial with Fox. She’s trying to wrap her head about what she saw. Thorne in trouble and she was trying to save him. Did she? Is he ok? If he is, will he be able and willing to tell her what happened? Will she get any closer in her search to figure out what happened to her sister?
This addition to the series was so good. So much happens in this book. Not only is there character building and development but more world building is done as well. I like how we get more of Thorne’s story and we see more of him as well. I also really like Blaze’s character and how even he seems to be developing more of a personality as well. Like the last book this one ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
November 9, 2025
I’m honestly not sure how I feel about Taste of Thorns. I think 3 stars is fair. Most of the book is just sex, and that’s not really something I enjoy - it feels like there’s not much plot compared to the previous ones. The story kind of loses its focus, which was disappointing for me.
The part I did like was the ending. The last few chapters were really good, and they reminded me why I liked this series in the first place. But then came the huge cliffhanger… and the fact that the next book isn’t published yet just made it worse! That’s probably the thing that irritates me the most right now.
I do like how Briony is developing. She’s becoming stronger and more sure of herself, which I appreciate. So overall, it’s not a bad book - just not my favorite in the series. The amount of sex scenes was too much for me, almost every chapter, and that took away from the story.
Still, I’m curious to see what happens next once the next book finally comes out.
The part I did like was the ending. The last few chapters were really good, and they reminded me why I liked this series in the first place. But then came the huge cliffhanger… and the fact that the next book isn’t published yet just made it worse! That’s probably the thing that irritates me the most right now.
I do like how Briony is developing. She’s becoming stronger and more sure of herself, which I appreciate. So overall, it’s not a bad book - just not my favorite in the series. The amount of sex scenes was too much for me, almost every chapter, and that took away from the story.
Still, I’m curious to see what happens next once the next book finally comes out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
4.25 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
Haven’t jumped back into this world in a few months, so it took me a second to get my bearings. I really enjoy the characters in this series. I love Dray (who wouldn’t love an exuberant, mischievous wolf shifter?) and I want to know more about Thorne. Beaufort & Fox are great too of course!
I will say, this instalment lost some points for me due to one particular chapter - it was about mid-way and was the cringiest intimacy scene I’ve read in a long while. It took me right out of the immersion 😂 I do find sometimes the FMC acts out in a very juvenile way - like, stomping her foot in frustration and such, and it makes me cringe a bit tbh…
Blaze is of course one of my fav characters 🐉 I can’t wait for him to grow even more!
The climax of this book was really good, and felt satisfying in a way, even though it ended on a pretty crazy cliffhanger!! Definitely going to be reading the next book very soon!
Haven’t jumped back into this world in a few months, so it took me a second to get my bearings. I really enjoy the characters in this series. I love Dray (who wouldn’t love an exuberant, mischievous wolf shifter?) and I want to know more about Thorne. Beaufort & Fox are great too of course!
I will say, this instalment lost some points for me due to one particular chapter - it was about mid-way and was the cringiest intimacy scene I’ve read in a long while. It took me right out of the immersion 😂 I do find sometimes the FMC acts out in a very juvenile way - like, stomping her foot in frustration and such, and it makes me cringe a bit tbh…
Blaze is of course one of my fav characters 🐉 I can’t wait for him to grow even more!
The climax of this book was really good, and felt satisfying in a way, even though it ended on a pretty crazy cliffhanger!! Definitely going to be reading the next book very soon!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews