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Bronze and Blood Saga #2
Heir of Fate and Flame
The Valorem Blood Trials are over. The fight for their lives has just begun.
One week after the devastation of the Valorem Blood Trials, Drusilla Valerius, in mourning for the late King Cato Draghi, bears the heavy burden of the crown of Anziano, while Marcus Scaevola, imprisoned deep in the Imperium capital, is ruthlessly tortured by the new Faithless for secrets he refuses to give—secrets that could end in an all-out war.
As Dru’s magic awakens, her bond with the last dragon alive on the continent grows, and the Imperium threatens invasion, the chances of finding Marcus alive become slimmer with each passing day. But Marcus can only hold on for so long until he’s worn out his usefulness.
At her side stands the man who betrayed and murdered King Cato—Cassius Valens, newly-named vicarium and puppet for the Faithless. Now navigating his new position while dealing with the consequences of his relentless quest for power, he soon learns that it comes at a price: his soul.
Far in the uncharted north, Vittoria Draghi, the long-lost sister of Cato, emerges from exile with rebellion in her blood. In order to take back her kingdom, she must return to the people she abandoned and form a marriage alliance with the very man who murdered her brother.
Elsewhere, a restless magic begins to stir, and a powerful weapon nears completion…
Don’t miss the epic second book in the Bronze and Blood Saga, a gladiator fantasy romance brimming with pining, betrayals, and second chances.
One week after the devastation of the Valorem Blood Trials, Drusilla Valerius, in mourning for the late King Cato Draghi, bears the heavy burden of the crown of Anziano, while Marcus Scaevola, imprisoned deep in the Imperium capital, is ruthlessly tortured by the new Faithless for secrets he refuses to give—secrets that could end in an all-out war.
As Dru’s magic awakens, her bond with the last dragon alive on the continent grows, and the Imperium threatens invasion, the chances of finding Marcus alive become slimmer with each passing day. But Marcus can only hold on for so long until he’s worn out his usefulness.
At her side stands the man who betrayed and murdered King Cato—Cassius Valens, newly-named vicarium and puppet for the Faithless. Now navigating his new position while dealing with the consequences of his relentless quest for power, he soon learns that it comes at a price: his soul.
Far in the uncharted north, Vittoria Draghi, the long-lost sister of Cato, emerges from exile with rebellion in her blood. In order to take back her kingdom, she must return to the people she abandoned and form a marriage alliance with the very man who murdered her brother.
Elsewhere, a restless magic begins to stir, and a powerful weapon nears completion…
Don’t miss the epic second book in the Bronze and Blood Saga, a gladiator fantasy romance brimming with pining, betrayals, and second chances.
518 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2025
38 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
M.K. Deoradhán
3 books164 followersM.K. Deoradhán (djō-rǒn) writes fantasy, romantasy, and a dash of historical! You can always find romance, kick-ass women, and swoon-worthy men in her books. Although she’s lived all over the U.S., she now resides on the west coast with her husband and two dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
October 14, 2025
⭐️ 4/5 stars
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 ✨
I didn’t think it was possible to be so MAD at a book and yet so giddy with it too. But Heir of Fate and Flame proved me wrong.
I spent half this book wanting to YELL at the characters, shake them to their senses, and the other half trying to piece everything together—only to be left with the BIGGEST cliffhanger I’ve experienced in a while.
Let’s start with what made me mad (and I won’t be explaining myself further):
• Dru, my girl… what happened? You went from total badass to whiny real quick. You did the best you could with the info you had, accept that and move on.
• Everything felt way too convenient. And yes, maybe I’m a bad person, but I wanted our group to suffer a bit more on their journey. It would’ve been entertaining.
• HOW did all of that happen to Marcus in the span of one week?
• Vittoria and Cassius… I wanted to care, I really did, but it just didn’t hit. Maybe the marriage of convenience trope isn’t for me, but their emotions (especially his) felt like they came out of nowhere.
AND THEN I REACHED THE SECOND HALF.
Everything I thought I knew flipped on its head. The things that bothered me? Suddenly they made sense. And I swear, the bond between Dru and Marcus? It’s one for the ages. The kind of connection that has you kicking your feet and giggling like a fool.
A quick rundown of my feelings on the characters:
• Marcus might actually be ruining other male leads for me. I fear no one will compare.
• Dru softens in a way that makes her even stronger, and I loved every second of it.
• Vittoria is perfect and can do no wrong. However… girl, your taste in men is questionable.
• Cassius can jump off a cliff for all I care. Unforgivable.
I’m giving this 4 stars because it made me feel everything—anger, delight, frustration, joy. It’s the kind of book that gets under your skin, makes you argue with fictional people, and still leaves you desperate for more.
Pick it up and see for yourself. Just… prepare your emotions first.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 ✨
I didn’t think it was possible to be so MAD at a book and yet so giddy with it too. But Heir of Fate and Flame proved me wrong.
I spent half this book wanting to YELL at the characters, shake them to their senses, and the other half trying to piece everything together—only to be left with the BIGGEST cliffhanger I’ve experienced in a while.
Let’s start with what made me mad (and I won’t be explaining myself further):
• Dru, my girl… what happened? You went from total badass to whiny real quick. You did the best you could with the info you had, accept that and move on.
• Everything felt way too convenient. And yes, maybe I’m a bad person, but I wanted our group to suffer a bit more on their journey. It would’ve been entertaining.
• HOW did all of that happen to Marcus in the span of one week?
• Vittoria and Cassius… I wanted to care, I really did, but it just didn’t hit. Maybe the marriage of convenience trope isn’t for me, but their emotions (especially his) felt like they came out of nowhere.
AND THEN I REACHED THE SECOND HALF.
Everything I thought I knew flipped on its head. The things that bothered me? Suddenly they made sense. And I swear, the bond between Dru and Marcus? It’s one for the ages. The kind of connection that has you kicking your feet and giggling like a fool.
A quick rundown of my feelings on the characters:
• Marcus might actually be ruining other male leads for me. I fear no one will compare.
• Dru softens in a way that makes her even stronger, and I loved every second of it.
• Vittoria is perfect and can do no wrong. However… girl, your taste in men is questionable.
• Cassius can jump off a cliff for all I care. Unforgivable.
I’m giving this 4 stars because it made me feel everything—anger, delight, frustration, joy. It’s the kind of book that gets under your skin, makes you argue with fictional people, and still leaves you desperate for more.
Pick it up and see for yourself. Just… prepare your emotions first.
October 9, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame was such an amazing sequel, I loved it more than the first book!! This picked up a week after the ending of book one and took us on an emotional journey and adventure. I’m avoiding any spoilers for both books of this series so far so this will probably be a short review.
The Roman inspired world and plot hooked me again! I loved continuing Marcus and Dru’s story. They will forever have my heart. I adored how they are both major badasses while loving each other so deeply that they are willing to do anything they have to to keep each other safe. I could feel their love and devotion. Marcus and Dru went through so much and I love that it made them stronger for it. Then there was Dru learning about her awakened magic, which was a cool subplot.
This book also introduced two new POVs and a new romance. There was Cassius, who I wanted to loathe but couldn’t. He was flawed in a way that I grew to actually adore him and I’m excited to see how he continues to grow. Vittoria has come back to claim her throne after everyone thought she unalived. It took me a while to warm up to her but like Cassius, I grew to love her. She was very confident and determined and wanted to help her country, which totally endeared me to her. And the slow burn romance between them was top notch and I can’t wait to see where it goes.
The ending wasn’t a brutal cliffhanger like book one but I still have questions and I am so excited for the next book!! This series is so good so far!
🤎 Roman Empire inspired
⚔️ multiple povs & romances
🤎 elemental humming magic
⚔️ a secret rebellion
🤎 last ancient dragon
⚔️ tyrannical empire
🤎 marriage of convenience
⚔️ morally grey characters
The Roman inspired world and plot hooked me again! I loved continuing Marcus and Dru’s story. They will forever have my heart. I adored how they are both major badasses while loving each other so deeply that they are willing to do anything they have to to keep each other safe. I could feel their love and devotion. Marcus and Dru went through so much and I love that it made them stronger for it. Then there was Dru learning about her awakened magic, which was a cool subplot.
This book also introduced two new POVs and a new romance. There was Cassius, who I wanted to loathe but couldn’t. He was flawed in a way that I grew to actually adore him and I’m excited to see how he continues to grow. Vittoria has come back to claim her throne after everyone thought she unalived. It took me a while to warm up to her but like Cassius, I grew to love her. She was very confident and determined and wanted to help her country, which totally endeared me to her. And the slow burn romance between them was top notch and I can’t wait to see where it goes.
The ending wasn’t a brutal cliffhanger like book one but I still have questions and I am so excited for the next book!! This series is so good so far!
🤎 Roman Empire inspired
⚔️ multiple povs & romances
🤎 elemental humming magic
⚔️ a secret rebellion
🤎 last ancient dragon
⚔️ tyrannical empire
🤎 marriage of convenience
⚔️ morally grey characters
October 5, 2025
second book syndrome? never heard of her 🙂↕️
arc rating & review:
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
oh this was such a good book. first of all, the added POV’s were phenomenal. i loved seeing the new characters and potential couples form. and the WOMEN!!! the women in this series are to DIE FOR! they’re strong, independent, and not afraid to step on some toes to get what they need.
first, i was confused at the beginning from where we left off on book one, but I did quickly recover and remember what happens at the end of the book one…which was CRIMINAL btw 😭 anyways, we basically start right after the events of book one and it just throws you right into the politics of it all. the new POV we get of a specific villain was diabolical!!! not only was I so angry with him, we also get this kind of forgiveness arc and/or we are given more context to why he did what he did and it does really shift your perspective on him by the end of the book. while i was mad at him for the entire thing, i could see where he regretted his choices and why he did what he did. and then we have this beautiful woman coming back for what’s hers and SHE PUTS HIM IN HIS PLACE 👏🏻 i absolutely loved this new main female character we get. she’s ruthless, she’s smart, and she is absolutely taking what she was owed and deserves. and the small little romance we’re getting from them?? DIVINE!!! the enemies to lovers in this new couple is REAL. the tension has been out of control and it was REAL.
oh and my loves. can’t ever forget about Dru and Marcus. their love for each other knows no bounds and they way they’re willing to do anything for eachother had me tearing up a few times. the way she was thrust into all these new roles and told to do this and that, and she does all of these with stride, but she just wants marcus and she was willing to do anything to get him back. they are their salvations and it tears my heart up knowing how much they love each other.
the plot and the politics in this one really developed well! i’m always here for a confusing but in depth magic system/court politics/war, and this gave exactly what it needed to!!! at times my anxiety was through the roof but it wasn’t over complicated or confusing and i picked up on it like i just finished book one a week ago.
this was such a good sequel and i can’t wait for the next two books. my heart is going to be TORN TO SHREDS, but im ready for it. this was an arc kindly provided by the author as i am on her permanent arc team. this was not paid for nor was there any kind of exchanging for this arc. release day is soon!!!! 🤎
arc rating & review:
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
oh this was such a good book. first of all, the added POV’s were phenomenal. i loved seeing the new characters and potential couples form. and the WOMEN!!! the women in this series are to DIE FOR! they’re strong, independent, and not afraid to step on some toes to get what they need.
first, i was confused at the beginning from where we left off on book one, but I did quickly recover and remember what happens at the end of the book one…which was CRIMINAL btw 😭 anyways, we basically start right after the events of book one and it just throws you right into the politics of it all. the new POV we get of a specific villain was diabolical!!! not only was I so angry with him, we also get this kind of forgiveness arc and/or we are given more context to why he did what he did and it does really shift your perspective on him by the end of the book. while i was mad at him for the entire thing, i could see where he regretted his choices and why he did what he did. and then we have this beautiful woman coming back for what’s hers and SHE PUTS HIM IN HIS PLACE 👏🏻 i absolutely loved this new main female character we get. she’s ruthless, she’s smart, and she is absolutely taking what she was owed and deserves. and the small little romance we’re getting from them?? DIVINE!!! the enemies to lovers in this new couple is REAL. the tension has been out of control and it was REAL.
oh and my loves. can’t ever forget about Dru and Marcus. their love for each other knows no bounds and they way they’re willing to do anything for eachother had me tearing up a few times. the way she was thrust into all these new roles and told to do this and that, and she does all of these with stride, but she just wants marcus and she was willing to do anything to get him back. they are their salvations and it tears my heart up knowing how much they love each other.
the plot and the politics in this one really developed well! i’m always here for a confusing but in depth magic system/court politics/war, and this gave exactly what it needed to!!! at times my anxiety was through the roof but it wasn’t over complicated or confusing and i picked up on it like i just finished book one a week ago.
this was such a good sequel and i can’t wait for the next two books. my heart is going to be TORN TO SHREDS, but im ready for it. this was an arc kindly provided by the author as i am on her permanent arc team. this was not paid for nor was there any kind of exchanging for this arc. release day is soon!!!! 🤎
October 7, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame by M.K. Deoradhan
Bronze and Blood Saga book 2
Releases 10/14!
Thank you to M.K. Deoradhan for entrusting me with an early copy!
Multiple POV, slow burn, second chance romance, Roman Empire inspired, rescue mission, a$s@as$in turned more FMC, betrayal, last ancient DRAGON, pining, secrets, hidden past, cinnamon roll MMC, tyrannical empire, hurt/comfort, politics and quests for power, second romance - political marriage, my wife, healing and redemption(?), brewing war, intriguing cliffhanger
Book 2 picks up shortly after book 1 ended with Dru and Marcus separated and Marcus in quite the precarious position. He had made Dru promise not to come after him and even if she did, he doesn't think she could find him in time. Meanwhile, Dru finds lots of help to start the rescue mission for Marcus! There are also some new POVs with a second plot that I'm not going to spoil here!
This book continues the emotional journey of our little crew that is pretty scattered. All the characters are dealing with choices that have been made and some especially are having a hard time with guilt. I love that we are getting a second slow burn romance budding out of a political arrangement which I'm always a fan of. And there's a dragon! What more could we want? Oh yeah, the next book!! I'm excited to see where the story goes next!
Bronze and Blood Saga book 2
Releases 10/14!
Thank you to M.K. Deoradhan for entrusting me with an early copy!
Multiple POV, slow burn, second chance romance, Roman Empire inspired, rescue mission, a$s@as$in turned more FMC, betrayal, last ancient DRAGON, pining, secrets, hidden past, cinnamon roll MMC, tyrannical empire, hurt/comfort, politics and quests for power, second romance - political marriage, my wife, healing and redemption(?), brewing war, intriguing cliffhanger
Book 2 picks up shortly after book 1 ended with Dru and Marcus separated and Marcus in quite the precarious position. He had made Dru promise not to come after him and even if she did, he doesn't think she could find him in time. Meanwhile, Dru finds lots of help to start the rescue mission for Marcus! There are also some new POVs with a second plot that I'm not going to spoil here!
This book continues the emotional journey of our little crew that is pretty scattered. All the characters are dealing with choices that have been made and some especially are having a hard time with guilt. I love that we are getting a second slow burn romance budding out of a political arrangement which I'm always a fan of. And there's a dragon! What more could we want? Oh yeah, the next book!! I'm excited to see where the story goes next!
October 11, 2025
High stakes, great romance plot lines, angst, grief, a stunning setting, remorse, and a dragon — this series has all of it and more! I already know that this will be one of my favorite fantasy series of all time.
I've been waiting to read this sequel from the moment I read the last page of the first book. Although it had less adrenaline-packed scenes than the first, it still exceeded my expectations. The author used this book to build the characters further, exploring them more deeply by adding more perspectives and broadening the already familiar ones. It was marvelous, and I enjoyed getting to know all of them a bit more. I loved the added perspectives, and I loved the new enemies to lovers couple introduced here. I also loved how we got some scenes from the past as well, and how that brought the relationship between Dru and Marcus to another level. Parts of this were excruciating to read, as some scenes are very, very heavy, so I would definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings! The plot definitely thickened, and I'm beyond excited to see what happens next!
I highly recommend this series to every fantasy lover who wants amazing romance subplots and a bit of spice! This gladiator inspired story kept me on my toes the entire time, until the very last sentence!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
I've been waiting to read this sequel from the moment I read the last page of the first book. Although it had less adrenaline-packed scenes than the first, it still exceeded my expectations. The author used this book to build the characters further, exploring them more deeply by adding more perspectives and broadening the already familiar ones. It was marvelous, and I enjoyed getting to know all of them a bit more. I loved the added perspectives, and I loved the new enemies to lovers couple introduced here. I also loved how we got some scenes from the past as well, and how that brought the relationship between Dru and Marcus to another level. Parts of this were excruciating to read, as some scenes are very, very heavy, so I would definitely recommend checking the trigger warnings! The plot definitely thickened, and I'm beyond excited to see what happens next!
I highly recommend this series to every fantasy lover who wants amazing romance subplots and a bit of spice! This gladiator inspired story kept me on my toes the entire time, until the very last sentence!
A huge thank you to the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
October 12, 2025
Wow, this second installment is so raw and heart wrenching.
We come back to the chaos with new characters point of views that bring clarity to all that is happening in the story. We get to experience heartbreak, guilt and love throughout all the perspectives while learning about each one's vulnerability. The storyline is engaging with a steady pacing. The world building keeps expanding and in this installment we learn more about Dru's past and her magic. There is always something unraveling in the story and we get more appearances of the special Viverna we read about in book one.
I loved getting back to Dru's and Marcus story and learning so much more about their past and their relationship. Plus, the new addition of characters and their inner struggles helped me understand their decisions and frame of mind.
I'm looking forward for the next installment. I can't wait to learn more about all those little, but important details M.K Deoradhán left us in the ending, well, the cliffhanger.
Thank you Deoradhán for the opportunity to read your ARC, I loved getting back to this world!
We come back to the chaos with new characters point of views that bring clarity to all that is happening in the story. We get to experience heartbreak, guilt and love throughout all the perspectives while learning about each one's vulnerability. The storyline is engaging with a steady pacing. The world building keeps expanding and in this installment we learn more about Dru's past and her magic. There is always something unraveling in the story and we get more appearances of the special Viverna we read about in book one.
I loved getting back to Dru's and Marcus story and learning so much more about their past and their relationship. Plus, the new addition of characters and their inner struggles helped me understand their decisions and frame of mind.
I'm looking forward for the next installment. I can't wait to learn more about all those little, but important details M.K Deoradhán left us in the ending, well, the cliffhanger.
Thank you Deoradhán for the opportunity to read your ARC, I loved getting back to this world!
November 1, 2025
4.5/5 This sequel picks up within days of the ending of book one, with high stakes, and higher emotion’s, there is a slower pace to start, that gradually builds, and about the 50% mark the story picks up rapidly, new characters come into play, as well as new alliances and character arcs, Cassius story has me most intrigued- I loved seeing his shift and moral development. We get to see more of the dragon, and are introduced to more of the magic system. The ending isn’t quite a cliffhanger so much as a revelation and new complications that will have the characters scrambling to problem solve in the next book. My only complaint was the pace being a touch too slow in the beginning, however the groundwork had to be laid for the new POV characters. Truly this was a spectacular sequel, and I’ll be itching for book 3!
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC, these are my honest opinions.
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC, these are my honest opinions.
October 11, 2025
I was lucky enough to be able to read this story as a beta reader earlier this year, and again more recently as an ARC.
Heir of Fate and Flame was so goood! I thought that the pacing was great. I swear I was reading and every time I’d look up what chapter I’m on, I’m surprised by how far I’ve gotten. The different POVs didn’t stop the story from moving forward. I understood why the chapters went in that specific order. The characters were nuanced and made sense in their role in the story. I love Dru and Marcus and I always will. But the build up of the relationship between Vittoria and Cassius was so good. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
Heir of Fate and Flame was so goood! I thought that the pacing was great. I swear I was reading and every time I’d look up what chapter I’m on, I’m surprised by how far I’ve gotten. The different POVs didn’t stop the story from moving forward. I understood why the chapters went in that specific order. The characters were nuanced and made sense in their role in the story. I love Dru and Marcus and I always will. But the build up of the relationship between Vittoria and Cassius was so good. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
November 5, 2025
The story picks up from where we left off in Trial of Bronze and Blood, new characters are introduced. The enemies to lovers made the spice quite enjoyable. The multi-povs kept the plot interesting and moving along.
October 14, 2025
I was excited to see how this story continued and it did not disappoint. This was a great read! A rescue mission, magic revealed, new major character introduced, yearning, tricky political plays and add in a dragon!!!! This is highly entertaining and I loved it all.
Is there a redemption coming? Do I want there to be? OMG I don’t know! All I know for sure is that I need the next book!
Is there a redemption coming? Do I want there to be? OMG I don’t know! All I know for sure is that I need the next book!
October 31, 2025
The plot thickens
This has been a really good series. I keep enjoying the character development and twists within the plot. This book has laid the foundation for another book in the series really well! I'd recommend this to my fellow fantasy lovers!
This has been a really good series. I keep enjoying the character development and twists within the plot. This book has laid the foundation for another book in the series really well! I'd recommend this to my fellow fantasy lovers!
October 2, 2025
M.K.'s Heir of Fate and Flame is a shining example of how a sequel should be done. It’s packed with action without ever becoming overbearing. It’s filled with romance, the sizzling, yearning kind.
Heir of Fate and Flame takes everything from its predecessor, Trial of Bronze and Blood, Book 1 of the Bronze and Blood Saga, and amplifies it. It brings back beloved characters and introduces new ones. It makes us question who the true enemies really are, and asks an even deeper question: what makes a villain? And is redemption ever possible?
After the devastating ending of Book 1, no one could have predicted the events that unfolded in Book 2, or the sheer intensity of it all. The intensity, the devastation, and the devotion. If this series could be summed up in a single word, it would be devotion. Devotion of the deepest kind. Not just the romantic bond between Dru and Marcus, though it certainly burns bright. No, not just that one.
The devotion reserved for those who matter most to you, those for whom you would sacrifice everything. Cato shows us just how far such devotion can reach. He is the one I will continue to shed tears for, the true catalyst of it all. And his legacy lingers, even in those who once wished him harm.
But if devotion defines this story, then regret must stand alongside it. Regret of the deepest kind. The kind that creeps in slowly and eats away at you. The regret of choices and actions that cannot be undone.
And yet, perhaps a third word completes the picture: hope. Hope for change, not only in individuals but in society as a whole. Hope for a future no longer marred by regret, but filled with anticipation. Hope for better things to come, even for those we once believed beyond redemption.
The ending of Heir of Fate and Flame delivered exactly what we needed. Not a dreary cliffhanger, but the perfect setup for the epic events and battles still to come.
Thank you, M.K., for having me on your ARC team. It's always an immense pleasure!
Heir of Fate and Flame takes everything from its predecessor, Trial of Bronze and Blood, Book 1 of the Bronze and Blood Saga, and amplifies it. It brings back beloved characters and introduces new ones. It makes us question who the true enemies really are, and asks an even deeper question: what makes a villain? And is redemption ever possible?
After the devastating ending of Book 1, no one could have predicted the events that unfolded in Book 2, or the sheer intensity of it all. The intensity, the devastation, and the devotion. If this series could be summed up in a single word, it would be devotion. Devotion of the deepest kind. Not just the romantic bond between Dru and Marcus, though it certainly burns bright. No, not just that one.
The devotion reserved for those who matter most to you, those for whom you would sacrifice everything. Cato shows us just how far such devotion can reach. He is the one I will continue to shed tears for, the true catalyst of it all. And his legacy lingers, even in those who once wished him harm.
But if devotion defines this story, then regret must stand alongside it. Regret of the deepest kind. The kind that creeps in slowly and eats away at you. The regret of choices and actions that cannot be undone.
And yet, perhaps a third word completes the picture: hope. Hope for change, not only in individuals but in society as a whole. Hope for a future no longer marred by regret, but filled with anticipation. Hope for better things to come, even for those we once believed beyond redemption.
The ending of Heir of Fate and Flame delivered exactly what we needed. Not a dreary cliffhanger, but the perfect setup for the epic events and battles still to come.
Thank you, M.K., for having me on your ARC team. It's always an immense pleasure!
October 16, 2025
Heir Of Fate And Flame by M.K Deoradhan is the fiercely epic sequel to Trial Of Bronze And Blood.The sequel continues the story of Dru & Marcus while also beginning the story of Vittoria Cato's long lost sister,and a man that wanted power for the wrong reasons.🗡
The author Mrs.Deoradhan has written a sequel that has two stories that interconnect in a way that will keep reader's guessing what will happen next with fierce,and unexpected plot twists.
More secrets have been revealed,and the stakes keep getting even more higher with each chapter. There's a reason why the sequel's title contains the word flame,and I loved finding out how one specific thing in particular effects the story's plot.
Once again Mrs.Deoradhan's world building is absolutely stunning,and every time i read a chapter it truly feels as though I am traveling along with the characters in the world of Anziano. Mrs.Deoradhan's attention to detail is top-tier, and she leaves no stone unturned subtly hinting the consequences surrounding the choices that every character will eventually make.
The sequel has everything that a gladiator romantasy story should have,and more.There's fierce fight scenes,betrayals galore,romance, strong women,and court intrigue.
The enemies to lovers romance throughout the story is well-executed especially with how the meet cute moment is portrayed between Vittoria & a certain someone. Dru & Marcus's love story also continues,and grows even stronger than before.
I cannot say more due to spoilers, but I will say that after that very shocking plot twist at the end I am excited to find out what will happen in book three.🔥🗡
Add to your tbr if you love:
1.Gladiator roman empire inspired romantasy.
2.Enemies to lovers
3.slow burn
4.Long lost queen fmc.
5.mmc that is a morally gray oathbreaker.
6.Elemental Magic,and a dragon.🐉
7.Marriage of convenience
8.Multiple pov's
Thank you Mrs.Deoradhan for the opportunity to read the sequel, and I look forward to reading book three.🗡🔥
The author Mrs.Deoradhan has written a sequel that has two stories that interconnect in a way that will keep reader's guessing what will happen next with fierce,and unexpected plot twists.
More secrets have been revealed,and the stakes keep getting even more higher with each chapter. There's a reason why the sequel's title contains the word flame,and I loved finding out how one specific thing in particular effects the story's plot.
Once again Mrs.Deoradhan's world building is absolutely stunning,and every time i read a chapter it truly feels as though I am traveling along with the characters in the world of Anziano. Mrs.Deoradhan's attention to detail is top-tier, and she leaves no stone unturned subtly hinting the consequences surrounding the choices that every character will eventually make.
The sequel has everything that a gladiator romantasy story should have,and more.There's fierce fight scenes,betrayals galore,romance, strong women,and court intrigue.
The enemies to lovers romance throughout the story is well-executed especially with how the meet cute moment is portrayed between Vittoria & a certain someone. Dru & Marcus's love story also continues,and grows even stronger than before.
I cannot say more due to spoilers, but I will say that after that very shocking plot twist at the end I am excited to find out what will happen in book three.🔥🗡
Add to your tbr if you love:
1.Gladiator roman empire inspired romantasy.
2.Enemies to lovers
3.slow burn
4.Long lost queen fmc.
5.mmc that is a morally gray oathbreaker.
6.Elemental Magic,and a dragon.🐉
7.Marriage of convenience
8.Multiple pov's
Thank you Mrs.Deoradhan for the opportunity to read the sequel, and I look forward to reading book three.🗡🔥
October 18, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame, the second book in the Bronze and Blood Saga by M. K. Deoradhán, pulled me right back into a world of power, betrayal, and destiny. I was already hooked after book one, but this installment deepened everything I loved and gave even more to explore.
Dru and Marcus return at the heart of this story, and their connection remains as magnetic and complex as ever. Dru steps further into her power and the heavy responsibility that comes with it, while Marcus, still haunted and now suffering after his capture, endures both physical torment and the crushing mental toll that follows. Those parts were difficult to read, but they added a raw emotional weight that made his resilience even more impactful. Their relationship feels tested in all the right ways, still bound by love, loyalty, and shared pain.
We also gain a couple of new perspectives this time around. Cassius the betrayer finally steps into the light, giving us a deeper look into his thoughts, guilt, and motives behind the events of the first book. Vittoria’s introduction adds a welcome spark as she returns to claim her rightful place, determined and defiant in a world that constantly challenges her. Both additions expand the emotional range and world building in meaningful ways.
While there is a little less action here than in book one, what we do get is phenomenal. The fight scenes are vivid, intense, and hit with purpose. The slightly slower pacing allows for more layered storytelling, with political tension, emotional growth, and mythic undertones all finding room to breathe. The lore continues to grow richer, and I loved the balance of magic and mystery. And I have to mention Dru’s dragon bond. The impact and implications it brings left me stunned and so curious to see how it develops in the next book.
By the time the final twist landed, I was completely invested. Heir of Fate and Flame builds beautifully on what came before, deepening the world, the relationships, and the stakes. It is powerful, emotional, and full of promise for what is to come next.
Dru and Marcus return at the heart of this story, and their connection remains as magnetic and complex as ever. Dru steps further into her power and the heavy responsibility that comes with it, while Marcus, still haunted and now suffering after his capture, endures both physical torment and the crushing mental toll that follows. Those parts were difficult to read, but they added a raw emotional weight that made his resilience even more impactful. Their relationship feels tested in all the right ways, still bound by love, loyalty, and shared pain.
We also gain a couple of new perspectives this time around. Cassius the betrayer finally steps into the light, giving us a deeper look into his thoughts, guilt, and motives behind the events of the first book. Vittoria’s introduction adds a welcome spark as she returns to claim her rightful place, determined and defiant in a world that constantly challenges her. Both additions expand the emotional range and world building in meaningful ways.
While there is a little less action here than in book one, what we do get is phenomenal. The fight scenes are vivid, intense, and hit with purpose. The slightly slower pacing allows for more layered storytelling, with political tension, emotional growth, and mythic undertones all finding room to breathe. The lore continues to grow richer, and I loved the balance of magic and mystery. And I have to mention Dru’s dragon bond. The impact and implications it brings left me stunned and so curious to see how it develops in the next book.
By the time the final twist landed, I was completely invested. Heir of Fate and Flame builds beautifully on what came before, deepening the world, the relationships, and the stakes. It is powerful, emotional, and full of promise for what is to come next.
November 17, 2025
This is a review for the second book in the Bronze and Blood Saga and will contain spoilers for book one.
Marcus has been imprisoned and taken from Anziano by the Imperium. They extensively torture him to get confirmation that Cato and Dru's marriage was a ruse. Dru is back in Anziano ruling in Cato's place per his plan should he fall in the Trials. She is desperate to rescue Marcus, though she also does not want to leave Anziano vulnerable with Cassius, formerly Jove, being appointed as Vicarium by the Imperium in return for getting rid of Cato. She is given hope, though, from friends and she begins to plan a rescue mission for Marcus.
Dru has allies that were close to Marxus willing to join her in the Imperium while they try to locate Marcus and she seeks help from the high priestess for the mission. The priestess tells Dru that she will send one of her other priestesses to help Dru train her newfound magic because it may be useful wh I le they are in the Imperium. Dru will also have to take the last viverna with her as they have bonded and cannot be separated. Dru leaves with her gathered allies and the viverna the same night that Cato's sister, Vittoria, who died returns to claim her throne. She faked her death to escape an arranged marriage to a Phaedran, yet returns and proposes a marriage between herself and Cassius under the pretenses of keeping the peace.
This stakes in this book are just as high as they were in book one, especially with Vittoria's return from self-imposed exile. I do love underdog stories, though, especially the ones where they are fighting against seemingly impossible odds and an incredibly powerful entity.
Thank you to author M.K. Deoradhan for the gifted eARC.
Marcus has been imprisoned and taken from Anziano by the Imperium. They extensively torture him to get confirmation that Cato and Dru's marriage was a ruse. Dru is back in Anziano ruling in Cato's place per his plan should he fall in the Trials. She is desperate to rescue Marcus, though she also does not want to leave Anziano vulnerable with Cassius, formerly Jove, being appointed as Vicarium by the Imperium in return for getting rid of Cato. She is given hope, though, from friends and she begins to plan a rescue mission for Marcus.
Dru has allies that were close to Marxus willing to join her in the Imperium while they try to locate Marcus and she seeks help from the high priestess for the mission. The priestess tells Dru that she will send one of her other priestesses to help Dru train her newfound magic because it may be useful wh I le they are in the Imperium. Dru will also have to take the last viverna with her as they have bonded and cannot be separated. Dru leaves with her gathered allies and the viverna the same night that Cato's sister, Vittoria, who died returns to claim her throne. She faked her death to escape an arranged marriage to a Phaedran, yet returns and proposes a marriage between herself and Cassius under the pretenses of keeping the peace.
This stakes in this book are just as high as they were in book one, especially with Vittoria's return from self-imposed exile. I do love underdog stories, though, especially the ones where they are fighting against seemingly impossible odds and an incredibly powerful entity.
Thank you to author M.K. Deoradhan for the gifted eARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2025
I finished reading 'Heir of Fate and Flame' written by M. K. Deoradhán. This is a romantasy and the second book in the Bronze and Blood saga.
"You won't be able to live with yourself if you let the fear of the unknown stop you from trying to save the man you love."
This book can also be described as a gladiator romance and I love how unique the story is. How it grabs you and holds on tight. It's just a very fun story to read and it keeps surprising me, making it even more fun to read.
"After what our people have gone through, loyalty is all we have left. We can't survive without it."
This story, like the first one, is about Marcus and Drusilla. It's also about the queen of Anziano and their resistance and fight against the Imperium. They all will be forced to make impossible choices, not knowing if those choices are the right ones and safe not only theirs, but the lives of a lot of Durevolians.
"You should laugh more. Find happiness wherever you can."
This story is not just a great read, it's put together very well. In two books you learn so much about the characters, giving me the feeling like I know them. And definitely me feeling with them. Their bonds are special and very strong, making a collaboration that their enemies will need to look out for.
"At least, now, you have a purpose, she reminds herself. You're not running from something; you're running to something."
This story is about love, friendship, loyalty and strength, but also about hatred, revenge, anger and fear. It's about choosing your priorities and finding the bravery to choose others over you. To fight for the greater good and not wanting any recognition for it.
For me, these things have made the story even more interesting. I give it five stars.
"You won't be able to live with yourself if you let the fear of the unknown stop you from trying to save the man you love."
This book can also be described as a gladiator romance and I love how unique the story is. How it grabs you and holds on tight. It's just a very fun story to read and it keeps surprising me, making it even more fun to read.
"After what our people have gone through, loyalty is all we have left. We can't survive without it."
This story, like the first one, is about Marcus and Drusilla. It's also about the queen of Anziano and their resistance and fight against the Imperium. They all will be forced to make impossible choices, not knowing if those choices are the right ones and safe not only theirs, but the lives of a lot of Durevolians.
"You should laugh more. Find happiness wherever you can."
This story is not just a great read, it's put together very well. In two books you learn so much about the characters, giving me the feeling like I know them. And definitely me feeling with them. Their bonds are special and very strong, making a collaboration that their enemies will need to look out for.
"At least, now, you have a purpose, she reminds herself. You're not running from something; you're running to something."
This story is about love, friendship, loyalty and strength, but also about hatred, revenge, anger and fear. It's about choosing your priorities and finding the bravery to choose others over you. To fight for the greater good and not wanting any recognition for it.
For me, these things have made the story even more interesting. I give it five stars.
October 14, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin 👀👀
As much as I loved the first book, I wasn’t sure if this one would be up to par because we all know that sometimes the second book in a series just doesn’t quite hit the same….
Well, I shouldn’t have worried because I loved this one even more than the first one! 🤯🤯
The separation between Dru and Marcus is heartbreaking. She is torn between her promise to Marcus/her duty, and tearing the world apart to get back to Marcus all while mourning Cato with Alessandra and Sabina. Meanwhile, Marcus is barely holding on by a thread, with only the thoughts of Dru keeping him alive and holding on….💔💔💔
Then we have Vittoria. Long exiled, rightful inheritor of the Anziano throne showing up with a bang💥 and the annoying roadblock of Cassius standing in her way. I have to say, I REALLY didn’t think I’d ever like him again. But after finishing this book, I gotta say that I am reluctantly feeling something for the little traitor…. Not MUCH, but at least it’s SOMETHING. 🙃 I LOVED their back and forth throughout the book, but of course wanted to smack the crap out of Cassius by the end. What is he playing at?? 🤔🤔
I loved the different POVs in this one as well. Dru on her journey, Marcus in Phaedra, and Vittoria and Cassius in a battle of wills in Anziano.
And that unexpected cliffhanger? I was SO sad that there weren’t any more pages to read…😅😂 Not giving any spoilers, but I was hoping we’d see something about that when it was mentioned in passing a couple of times, and thought it wasn’t happening. Until we got to the last pages…🤣
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next!! 💯💯💯💯
As much as I loved the first book, I wasn’t sure if this one would be up to par because we all know that sometimes the second book in a series just doesn’t quite hit the same….
Well, I shouldn’t have worried because I loved this one even more than the first one! 🤯🤯
The separation between Dru and Marcus is heartbreaking. She is torn between her promise to Marcus/her duty, and tearing the world apart to get back to Marcus all while mourning Cato with Alessandra and Sabina. Meanwhile, Marcus is barely holding on by a thread, with only the thoughts of Dru keeping him alive and holding on….💔💔💔
Then we have Vittoria. Long exiled, rightful inheritor of the Anziano throne showing up with a bang💥 and the annoying roadblock of Cassius standing in her way. I have to say, I REALLY didn’t think I’d ever like him again. But after finishing this book, I gotta say that I am reluctantly feeling something for the little traitor…. Not MUCH, but at least it’s SOMETHING. 🙃 I LOVED their back and forth throughout the book, but of course wanted to smack the crap out of Cassius by the end. What is he playing at?? 🤔🤔
I loved the different POVs in this one as well. Dru on her journey, Marcus in Phaedra, and Vittoria and Cassius in a battle of wills in Anziano.
And that unexpected cliffhanger? I was SO sad that there weren’t any more pages to read…😅😂 Not giving any spoilers, but I was hoping we’d see something about that when it was mentioned in passing a couple of times, and thought it wasn’t happening. Until we got to the last pages…🤣
I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next!! 💯💯💯💯
October 12, 2025
If Trial of Bronze and Blood was a walk, then Heir of Fate and Flame was a full-out sprint. This sophomore book from M.K. Deoradhán did not disappoint and soared in the most amazing way.
I'm completely invested in Dru and Cassius's relationship. Watching these two strong, independent trained assassins learn to support and trust each other was so satisfying. The glimpses we get of their time with the Faithless added so much more depth to their character development and to their bond. And Dru is a phenomenal FMC, growing into her power and refusing to take gruff from anyone.
Deoradhán also did a fantastic job of introducing two additional characters and making their stories come to life. Despite their backstories giving every reason to be suspicious, their personalities are written so masterfully that you can't help but slowly start to see them in a whole new light.
The political landscape is also thickening and crumbling from within. Alliances are shifting, enemies are becoming allies, and a secret rebellion is lying in wait, making for some fantastic intrigue. The discovery of a powerful secret weapon adds even more layers of tension and suspense that could change the map of The Imperium forever.
As with book one, the writing and pacing are well done. The world-building is so immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters, whether they were trekking the roads to Phaedra or discovering hidden caves on the island of Anziano.
And that ending? A perfect cliffhanger! It will be a nail-biter waiting to see what happens next, but I have no doubt that M.K. Deoradhán will soar even higher in book three.
P.S. Did I mention there's a dragon?!
I'm completely invested in Dru and Cassius's relationship. Watching these two strong, independent trained assassins learn to support and trust each other was so satisfying. The glimpses we get of their time with the Faithless added so much more depth to their character development and to their bond. And Dru is a phenomenal FMC, growing into her power and refusing to take gruff from anyone.
Deoradhán also did a fantastic job of introducing two additional characters and making their stories come to life. Despite their backstories giving every reason to be suspicious, their personalities are written so masterfully that you can't help but slowly start to see them in a whole new light.
The political landscape is also thickening and crumbling from within. Alliances are shifting, enemies are becoming allies, and a secret rebellion is lying in wait, making for some fantastic intrigue. The discovery of a powerful secret weapon adds even more layers of tension and suspense that could change the map of The Imperium forever.
As with book one, the writing and pacing are well done. The world-building is so immersive that I felt like I was right there with the characters, whether they were trekking the roads to Phaedra or discovering hidden caves on the island of Anziano.
And that ending? A perfect cliffhanger! It will be a nail-biter waiting to see what happens next, but I have no doubt that M.K. Deoradhán will soar even higher in book three.
P.S. Did I mention there's a dragon?!
October 14, 2025
“The best revenge is outliving your enemies.”
Heir of Fate and Flame is an amazing sequel! Book 2 in the Bronze and Blood Saga. Roman Empire inspired, Gladiator vibes, unique magic and an ancient dragon. What more can you ask for?!
I love these characters so much. I really like that we got the POV from Dru and Marcus plus new characters 🙌. I really wanted to hate Cassius. He’s such a flawed individual but so interesting. The women in this book are so strong and inspiring. Every single one of them.
We really get to dive into the magic in this book! It is so unique. Vibration! This is particularly exciting for me because I am an ultrasound tech and interested in the power of sound 🔊🤓
The cliffhanger from book one was BRUTAL, so it was satisfying getting answers to those questions. I do have some new questions now and I’m really looking forward to the next book!
Fav tropes:
✨Magic
🐉Ancient dragon
🏰Court politics
💍Marriage of convenience
🩶Morally grey MCs
🔥Slow burn
⚔️Enemies to lovers
👑Goddess
🧠PTSD rep
Fav quotes:
“Our magic only comes with the faith that it will work—that the elements bend to our will because we command them to.” 🙌
“Now, focus only on your voice, how it feels inside you, how it trembles out of your chest and through your nose. If you can, let it overtake you, body and soul.”
Thank you M.K. Deoradhan for the advanced copy and letting me join your street team!
Heir of Fate and Flame is an amazing sequel! Book 2 in the Bronze and Blood Saga. Roman Empire inspired, Gladiator vibes, unique magic and an ancient dragon. What more can you ask for?!
I love these characters so much. I really like that we got the POV from Dru and Marcus plus new characters 🙌. I really wanted to hate Cassius. He’s such a flawed individual but so interesting. The women in this book are so strong and inspiring. Every single one of them.
We really get to dive into the magic in this book! It is so unique. Vibration! This is particularly exciting for me because I am an ultrasound tech and interested in the power of sound 🔊🤓
The cliffhanger from book one was BRUTAL, so it was satisfying getting answers to those questions. I do have some new questions now and I’m really looking forward to the next book!
Fav tropes:
✨Magic
🐉Ancient dragon
🏰Court politics
💍Marriage of convenience
🩶Morally grey MCs
🔥Slow burn
⚔️Enemies to lovers
👑Goddess
🧠PTSD rep
Fav quotes:
“Our magic only comes with the faith that it will work—that the elements bend to our will because we command them to.” 🙌
“Now, focus only on your voice, how it feels inside you, how it trembles out of your chest and through your nose. If you can, let it overtake you, body and soul.”
Thank you M.K. Deoradhan for the advanced copy and letting me join your street team!
October 10, 2025
*ARC*
Ohmygod, M.K. Deoradhán has done it again!!! This was an absolutely amazing continuation to the story of Dru and Marcus.
Heir of Fate and Flame picks up where Book 1, Trial of Bronze and Blood ends, but with some new added POVs. I absolutely love the added POVs of Cassius and Vittoria!! They add so much more depth to the story. You definitely feel all the emotions from Cassius as the story progresses, which makes you wonder if he's as bad of a person as you think. The addition of Vittoria is an amazing one, she is just so strong and still has such an air of mystery to her that makes you want book 3 immediately!!
The villains in this story are so well written that you absolutely hate them. The torture scenes are brutal and made me feel such sorrow and pain for Marcus and Dru.
Now to the absolute stars of the book, Dru and Marcus. Dru is just as bad*ss and just as amazing as she was in Book 1. Her sole focus is to get Marcus back and her travels to get to him, awaken a lot of mystery to her that hopefully will be more explored in Book 3. Marcus' POVs in this story are just heartbreaking and his utter love and devotion to Dru is just beautiful to see. He lives for her and I absolutely love the flashbacks in his POV.
I absolutely love the vulnerability that Marcus goes through once reunited because they feel real and not forced, and it made me love him even more. And of course, Dru voices all her love and devotion and I absolutely loved it. The cliffhanger in this book was absolutely brutal and I cannot wait for book 3 because I need to know what is going to happen!!!
Ohmygod, M.K. Deoradhán has done it again!!! This was an absolutely amazing continuation to the story of Dru and Marcus.
Heir of Fate and Flame picks up where Book 1, Trial of Bronze and Blood ends, but with some new added POVs. I absolutely love the added POVs of Cassius and Vittoria!! They add so much more depth to the story. You definitely feel all the emotions from Cassius as the story progresses, which makes you wonder if he's as bad of a person as you think. The addition of Vittoria is an amazing one, she is just so strong and still has such an air of mystery to her that makes you want book 3 immediately!!
The villains in this story are so well written that you absolutely hate them. The torture scenes are brutal and made me feel such sorrow and pain for Marcus and Dru.
Now to the absolute stars of the book, Dru and Marcus. Dru is just as bad*ss and just as amazing as she was in Book 1. Her sole focus is to get Marcus back and her travels to get to him, awaken a lot of mystery to her that hopefully will be more explored in Book 3. Marcus' POVs in this story are just heartbreaking and his utter love and devotion to Dru is just beautiful to see. He lives for her and I absolutely love the flashbacks in his POV.
I absolutely love the vulnerability that Marcus goes through once reunited because they feel real and not forced, and it made me love him even more. And of course, Dru voices all her love and devotion and I absolutely loved it. The cliffhanger in this book was absolutely brutal and I cannot wait for book 3 because I need to know what is going to happen!!!
October 14, 2025
3.75/5
This book was a bit hard for me to rate. There were parts I really enjoyed. I really liked that we got more information about the magic system in this book and saw it develop more in Dru. I continued to enjoy the Roman influence on the fantasy world that was introduced in book 1. I thought the two added POVs in this book were really well done and enjoyed the development of those characters and their relationship. I also really loved the addition of Lucian.
However, I have found during my reads this year that one trope I really don’t love is when the main characters are separated because one has been kidnapped/captured/taken. As you’ll know if you read book 1, this is where we left our two main characters at the end of the book. Unlike most readers, I’m sure, I want the reunion to happen sooner rather than later. I guess I’m impatient and never feel like it happens “too soon.” The reunion took too long for my taste and the pace of the first section of this book was a bit of a struggle for me as a result. That being said, I will 100% be reading the next book after that cliffhanger at the end.
Tropes:
🗡️Multi POV
🗡️Arraigned marriage
🗡️Tyrannical empire
🗡️Secret rebellion
🗡️Roman Empire inspired
🗡️Even slower burn than book 1 but also more spice than book 1
I did receive an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a bit hard for me to rate. There were parts I really enjoyed. I really liked that we got more information about the magic system in this book and saw it develop more in Dru. I continued to enjoy the Roman influence on the fantasy world that was introduced in book 1. I thought the two added POVs in this book were really well done and enjoyed the development of those characters and their relationship. I also really loved the addition of Lucian.
However, I have found during my reads this year that one trope I really don’t love is when the main characters are separated because one has been kidnapped/captured/taken. As you’ll know if you read book 1, this is where we left our two main characters at the end of the book. Unlike most readers, I’m sure, I want the reunion to happen sooner rather than later. I guess I’m impatient and never feel like it happens “too soon.” The reunion took too long for my taste and the pace of the first section of this book was a bit of a struggle for me as a result. That being said, I will 100% be reading the next book after that cliffhanger at the end.
Tropes:
🗡️Multi POV
🗡️Arraigned marriage
🗡️Tyrannical empire
🗡️Secret rebellion
🗡️Roman Empire inspired
🗡️Even slower burn than book 1 but also more spice than book 1
I did receive an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2025
Heir of Fate & Flame picks up right at the cliff-hanger where book 1 left off. Dru is left queen under the guise that she is carrying Cato’s child. She is trying to come up with a plan to rescue Marcus without leaving Anziano in shambles.
This book had everything I could’ve hoped for in the sequel. There was adventure, conflict, tension, angst, and spice! I loved every single aspect of the plot and how it progressed in book 2! M.K. progressed the story perfectly up and leaves you, once again, excited for the next book in the series!
Also- mad props to any author who can take a character and put you on a roller coaster with them. You love them, distrust them, hate them, entirely LOATHE them, then back to just distrust again, and then all of a sudden you start to actually like them and root for them. It was hard leaving Dru & Marcus’ pov’s, but once Cassius and Vittoria stated to hit it off, I didn’t want to leave their storyline! I can’t wait to hear more from them in book 3.
While I loved the characters and plot lines, there were parts where the story was a little slow for me! Once I hit the “adventure” portion of the book, I stayed getting more engaged.. and once the spice picked up (70% ish), I couldn’t put it down!
Thank you MK Deoradham for allowing me to be on the arc team for HOFAF! It was another amazing book!
This book had everything I could’ve hoped for in the sequel. There was adventure, conflict, tension, angst, and spice! I loved every single aspect of the plot and how it progressed in book 2! M.K. progressed the story perfectly up and leaves you, once again, excited for the next book in the series!
Also- mad props to any author who can take a character and put you on a roller coaster with them. You love them, distrust them, hate them, entirely LOATHE them, then back to just distrust again, and then all of a sudden you start to actually like them and root for them. It was hard leaving Dru & Marcus’ pov’s, but once Cassius and Vittoria stated to hit it off, I didn’t want to leave their storyline! I can’t wait to hear more from them in book 3.
While I loved the characters and plot lines, there were parts where the story was a little slow for me! Once I hit the “adventure” portion of the book, I stayed getting more engaged.. and once the spice picked up (70% ish), I couldn’t put it down!
Thank you MK Deoradham for allowing me to be on the arc team for HOFAF! It was another amazing book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame
Bronze and Blood Book 2
By M.K. Deoradhán
🗡 A Gladiator themed Romantasy
⚔️ A Secret Rebellion
🗡 Tyrannical Empire
⚔️ Coastal Italy setting
🗡 Slowburn, mutual pining & spice
⚔️ Multi POV
🗡 Last ancient Dragon
⚔️ Enimies to ?? To Lovers between the most unexpected...
🗡 Humming magic
⚔️ Amazing character development
🗡 Fierce Women 😉
"Her Obsession with finding Marcus alive might be the very thing that gets her k¡lled, but she can't stop."
This second instalment has me shook, this picks up right where the first finished (which is an incredible feat.). The way M.K. Deoradhán has managed to tell this incredible journey so well I am in total awe, I could literally envision this book as though it was a movie playing on the TV.
Dru and Marcus are back with some pretty incredible new characters popping up along the way amidst their journey to get back to each other, willing to do whatever it takes of course, their love for eachother is a beautiful thing, we also see an unexpected love match happen with someone I absolutely did not want to like 🙄 (so excuse me M.K.? What the? Why did you have to make me like him? 🥺)
We also see some more spice of course 😉
This had me hooked! I already cannot wait for the next and this one isn’t even released yet 😆
Heir of Fate and Flame releases October 14th 😘🖤
#enemiestolovers #loveconquersall #gladiatorfantasy #HeirofFateandFlame #bookreview
#fantasybooks #mustreadbooks #mkdeoradhán #bronzeandbloodsaga #bookish #bookscomingsoon #bookworm #bookstagram #bookreview #mustread #booktokfyp
Bronze and Blood Book 2
By M.K. Deoradhán
🗡 A Gladiator themed Romantasy
⚔️ A Secret Rebellion
🗡 Tyrannical Empire
⚔️ Coastal Italy setting
🗡 Slowburn, mutual pining & spice
⚔️ Multi POV
🗡 Last ancient Dragon
⚔️ Enimies to ?? To Lovers between the most unexpected...
🗡 Humming magic
⚔️ Amazing character development
🗡 Fierce Women 😉
"Her Obsession with finding Marcus alive might be the very thing that gets her k¡lled, but she can't stop."
This second instalment has me shook, this picks up right where the first finished (which is an incredible feat.). The way M.K. Deoradhán has managed to tell this incredible journey so well I am in total awe, I could literally envision this book as though it was a movie playing on the TV.
Dru and Marcus are back with some pretty incredible new characters popping up along the way amidst their journey to get back to each other, willing to do whatever it takes of course, their love for eachother is a beautiful thing, we also see an unexpected love match happen with someone I absolutely did not want to like 🙄 (so excuse me M.K.? What the? Why did you have to make me like him? 🥺)
We also see some more spice of course 😉
This had me hooked! I already cannot wait for the next and this one isn’t even released yet 😆
Heir of Fate and Flame releases October 14th 😘🖤
#enemiestolovers #loveconquersall #gladiatorfantasy #HeirofFateandFlame #bookreview
#fantasybooks #mustreadbooks #mkdeoradhán #bronzeandbloodsaga #bookish #bookscomingsoon #bookworm #bookstagram #bookreview #mustread #booktokfyp
October 13, 2025
Book 2 is everything I was hoping it would be and more after reading book1! I knew there would be a lot to unfold, and it did not disappoint. I was hooked right from the beginning and could not stop reading until I finished because I just had to know what was going to happen. What an amazing book 2. I may have liked it just as much as book 1, if not more!! This story takes place one week after the events of book 1 and we start to get into the meat of the series. Right at the beginning there is a plot twist I absolutely did not see coming that adds more depth and another layer to unravel. We continue to follow Dru and Marcus’s story, along with adding new POVs and another potential new romance that I’m excited to see unfold. There continues to be political intrigue, heartache, betrayal, deception, guilt, pain, personal struggles, secrets, fears, hopes, friendships, and of course love. There are so many plot twists and it is such an emotional rollercoaster. I love the magic system and how unique it is. It is really neat to see it unfold. I can’t wait for the next book and to see where it goes from here!
Thank you M.K. Deoradhán for an advanced review copy, and the amazing opportunity to continue on your Street Team!
Thank you M.K. Deoradhán for an advanced review copy, and the amazing opportunity to continue on your Street Team!
October 5, 2025
Such a great sequel! M.K. had a tough book to top with A Trial of Blood and Bronze and she did SUCH a great job of living up to it in Heir of Fate and Flame!
We get two more POVs in this story, and I thought blending in an additional love story (AND a redemption arc?!?) was a perfect move for this sequel! I will sometimes miss our MCs when new POVs are introduced, but I found myself craving Vittoria and Cassius's POVs at times because their beginning is so complex I couldn't wait to see how M.K. was going to pull it off.
Now, Dru and Marcus.....the longing!! Ugh, it about broke my heart. Those chapters did something to me, and getting to experience their devotion even in times of peril was so special.
This book has a LOT of revelations about who Dru really is as well as a more in-depth view of this world and how it is continuing to reveal its complexities. There are still plenty of question marks and I think that there is a great mix of reveals and secrets still left to discover!
We have some new names and new players, but the heart-pounding drama, politics, and action remain.
I am so excited to see where M.K. goes from here!
Overall: Recommend
spice: Open door
We get two more POVs in this story, and I thought blending in an additional love story (AND a redemption arc?!?) was a perfect move for this sequel! I will sometimes miss our MCs when new POVs are introduced, but I found myself craving Vittoria and Cassius's POVs at times because their beginning is so complex I couldn't wait to see how M.K. was going to pull it off.
Now, Dru and Marcus.....the longing!! Ugh, it about broke my heart. Those chapters did something to me, and getting to experience their devotion even in times of peril was so special.
This book has a LOT of revelations about who Dru really is as well as a more in-depth view of this world and how it is continuing to reveal its complexities. There are still plenty of question marks and I think that there is a great mix of reveals and secrets still left to discover!
We have some new names and new players, but the heart-pounding drama, politics, and action remain.
I am so excited to see where M.K. goes from here!
Overall: Recommend
spice: Open door
October 7, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame is a gladiator fantasy romance with Roman-Empire inspiration, humming elemental magic and a true slow burning enemies to lovers romance. The story takes place in a coastal tyrannical empire with high stakes battles, secret rebellions, a mysterious last ancient dragon and epic romance.
I absolutely loved book one, and this next installment exceeded all of my expectations. The storytelling and cinematic prose is just as addictive, delving deeper into an already layered fantasy world. I loved the continuation of Marcus and Drusilla’s love story. They are both strong, complex characters with a romance just as passionate, dangerous and epic as Maximus and Lucilla from Gladiator. I also loved the additional new romance between a morally gray oathbreaker and the empire’s long lost queen. Cassius and Vittoria’s slow burning enemies to lovers romance had lots of pining, betrayal and a fun marriage of convenience element that made this sequel even more compelling to read.
Thank you M.K. Deoradhán for an early copy of this ARC and the amazing opportunity to be on your Street Team!
I absolutely loved book one, and this next installment exceeded all of my expectations. The storytelling and cinematic prose is just as addictive, delving deeper into an already layered fantasy world. I loved the continuation of Marcus and Drusilla’s love story. They are both strong, complex characters with a romance just as passionate, dangerous and epic as Maximus and Lucilla from Gladiator. I also loved the additional new romance between a morally gray oathbreaker and the empire’s long lost queen. Cassius and Vittoria’s slow burning enemies to lovers romance had lots of pining, betrayal and a fun marriage of convenience element that made this sequel even more compelling to read.
Thank you M.K. Deoradhán for an early copy of this ARC and the amazing opportunity to be on your Street Team!
October 21, 2025
ARC review ❤️
4.5 ⭐
This book picks up right after the first book finished (that cliffhanger!). There is great exploration of what happened at the end with new adventures and characters. As expected, this book also ends on a cliffhanger, but not one as earth shattering as the first.
I know we're supposed to hate Cassius, and I do, but also I get Vittoria's desire to fix him. He drops some lines in this book that are just so swoon worthy. Marcus and Dru are still nauseating together. Perfect.
Part of the new explorations in this book was to delve deeper into the magical system of this world and what makes the island of Anziano so important. I loved that. I love that type of world building that was so well incorporated into the actual plot.
The pacing in this book felt a bit disjointed to me with some parts happening too quickly and other happening too slowly. But I still found it to be a worthy follow-up to Trial of Blood and Bronze. I am, of course, impatiently waiting for the next book now.
4.5 ⭐
This book picks up right after the first book finished (that cliffhanger!). There is great exploration of what happened at the end with new adventures and characters. As expected, this book also ends on a cliffhanger, but not one as earth shattering as the first.
I know we're supposed to hate Cassius, and I do, but also I get Vittoria's desire to fix him. He drops some lines in this book that are just so swoon worthy. Marcus and Dru are still nauseating together. Perfect.
Part of the new explorations in this book was to delve deeper into the magical system of this world and what makes the island of Anziano so important. I loved that. I love that type of world building that was so well incorporated into the actual plot.
The pacing in this book felt a bit disjointed to me with some parts happening too quickly and other happening too slowly. But I still found it to be a worthy follow-up to Trial of Blood and Bronze. I am, of course, impatiently waiting for the next book now.
October 9, 2025
This book delivers!
Everything we survived in Book 1 sets up emotions and adventures for Book 2. Some characters we know and gain more depth in their relationships while others are new and bring new perspectives to the story.
Dru continues to be one of my absolute favorite FMCs. I love Dru because her character is so realistic. Dru is not the side character to the MMC, she truly is the lead. We get to see so much more of Dru as a leader as she fights for what's important. Throughout the story we learn a little more about her past and some of what her future holds starts to unveil. I cannot wait to see more from her in the next book!
Marcus is so easy to love. We have swoony moments and very realistic difficult moments with Marcus in this book. At the heart of Marcus is a brave soul that protects those he loves.
To avoid spoilers, I won't get to into detail about our other two POV, but I loved getting to know them! They're very different from Marcus and Dru in all the best ways!
Everything we survived in Book 1 sets up emotions and adventures for Book 2. Some characters we know and gain more depth in their relationships while others are new and bring new perspectives to the story.
Dru continues to be one of my absolute favorite FMCs. I love Dru because her character is so realistic. Dru is not the side character to the MMC, she truly is the lead. We get to see so much more of Dru as a leader as she fights for what's important. Throughout the story we learn a little more about her past and some of what her future holds starts to unveil. I cannot wait to see more from her in the next book!
Marcus is so easy to love. We have swoony moments and very realistic difficult moments with Marcus in this book. At the heart of Marcus is a brave soul that protects those he loves.
To avoid spoilers, I won't get to into detail about our other two POV, but I loved getting to know them! They're very different from Marcus and Dru in all the best ways!
October 13, 2025
Heir of Fate and Flame continues the story from Trial of Bronze and Blood, picking up just one week after where book one left off.
I really enjoyed this book, just as I did book one! The Roman Empire-inspired world-building was beautifully done, and brought back memories of my time in Italy. The world expands as the characters go on new journeys, and it's all written so incredibly well.
New and surprising characters are introduced that take the story in a totally different direction than what you expect, and a new love story begins with a certain character that you loved, hated, and maybe will love again.
Dru and Marcus's story continues as well, and we get to learn even more about who Dru is as she learns more about herself and her magic. The ending was amazing as we (and the characters) got a huge reveal that will definitely be explored more in the next book.
Love this series so far; thank you to the author for the early copy!
I really enjoyed this book, just as I did book one! The Roman Empire-inspired world-building was beautifully done, and brought back memories of my time in Italy. The world expands as the characters go on new journeys, and it's all written so incredibly well.
New and surprising characters are introduced that take the story in a totally different direction than what you expect, and a new love story begins with a certain character that you loved, hated, and maybe will love again.
Dru and Marcus's story continues as well, and we get to learn even more about who Dru is as she learns more about herself and her magic. The ending was amazing as we (and the characters) got a huge reveal that will definitely be explored more in the next book.
Love this series so far; thank you to the author for the early copy!
October 20, 2025
4.5/5 So much better than the first one! This is how you write a sequel!
After book one, I had some reservations. As a fantasy lover, I felt the first installment leaned more into romance and character development, while the fantasy elements had little real impact on the plot. But this sequel? It delivered everything I wanted and more.
It’s much more plot-heavy, with politics, magic, and lore finally taking center stage, all while keeping a great pace and writing style. The world's originality truly shines now, and I can actually see myself recommending this series to a wide range of readers.
Dru has fantastic character development as she grows into her magic. Marcus doesn't evolve much, but he already had a strong arc in book one, so it didn't bother me. But the couple I completely fell for? Cassius and Vittoria. Their chemistry was simply perfection. I'm a sucker for villain stories with redemption arcs and fierce FMCs making questionable choices so of course I loved them!! And who doesn't love a mariage of convenience with true enemies to lovers?
I had an absolute blast, and I can’t wait to continue this story!
After book one, I had some reservations. As a fantasy lover, I felt the first installment leaned more into romance and character development, while the fantasy elements had little real impact on the plot. But this sequel? It delivered everything I wanted and more.
It’s much more plot-heavy, with politics, magic, and lore finally taking center stage, all while keeping a great pace and writing style. The world's originality truly shines now, and I can actually see myself recommending this series to a wide range of readers.
Dru has fantastic character development as she grows into her magic. Marcus doesn't evolve much, but he already had a strong arc in book one, so it didn't bother me. But the couple I completely fell for? Cassius and Vittoria. Their chemistry was simply perfection. I'm a sucker for villain stories with redemption arcs and fierce FMCs making questionable choices so of course I loved them!! And who doesn't love a mariage of convenience with true enemies to lovers?
I had an absolute blast, and I can’t wait to continue this story!
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