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Taking Flight
To become an airship pilot, Sira must survive her final exam—and the pirates determined to kill her.
Everyone assumed Sira was going to ace the practical exam. Top of her class at the Academy, she’s proven she can fly an airship. What she can’t seem to do is make it home. Shot down in the dead of night, she and James Hawk, the frustrating mage assigned to her exam, are stranded in the Bellever forest. Sira doesn't trust magic, or the mage she's stranded with, but they're the only survivors of the attack and it will take both their talents to get back to the city.
Pursued by mercenaries and low on supplies, Sira and James flee to a hidden Fae village for refuge. There, she realizes this is no random act of piracy. Someone powerful wants to keep them from finishing their journey at any cost.
With a target on her back and a growing sense of uncertainty, Sira must decide who she can trust—and what she’s willing to sacrifice—to make it home alive.
Everyone assumed Sira was going to ace the practical exam. Top of her class at the Academy, she’s proven she can fly an airship. What she can’t seem to do is make it home. Shot down in the dead of night, she and James Hawk, the frustrating mage assigned to her exam, are stranded in the Bellever forest. Sira doesn't trust magic, or the mage she's stranded with, but they're the only survivors of the attack and it will take both their talents to get back to the city.
Pursued by mercenaries and low on supplies, Sira and James flee to a hidden Fae village for refuge. There, she realizes this is no random act of piracy. Someone powerful wants to keep them from finishing their journey at any cost.
With a target on her back and a growing sense of uncertainty, Sira must decide who she can trust—and what she’s willing to sacrifice—to make it home alive.
- GenresFantasy
378 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2025
3 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Scriven
2 books22 followersKelly grew up writing stories. Raised in Edmonton, Alberta, her parents taught her early how powerful stories could be, and her favorite childhood pastimes were wandering the shelves of the local library and curling up on the couch with a good book. Honestly, that’s still true today!
Kelly lives in the suburbs of St Louis, Missouri, with her husband. Together they're raising three imaginative and courageous boys. Between the concerts, scout meetings, and home life, she surrounds herself with stories, both as an author and as an editor helping other authors achieve their dreams.
Kelly lives in the suburbs of St Louis, Missouri, with her husband. Together they're raising three imaginative and courageous boys. Between the concerts, scout meetings, and home life, she surrounds herself with stories, both as an author and as an editor helping other authors achieve their dreams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
February 23, 2025
I received and Advance Reader Copy and am giving this review voluntarily. With that formality out of the way, I can only say that I hope Kelly delivers on the promise this first book has by writing a full series!
Sira is a loveable and relatable main character, and her coming-of-age style journey left me wanting more adventures with her. The worldbuilding reminded me so much of Final Fantasy VI (in a good way) with the steampunky mix of magic and tech. I loved the tension Scriven built up between those two opposing technologies, and I'm sure she has more stories to tell about this world and Sira's role in it.
Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable story that belongs on the shelves of anyone who likes authors like Tamora Pierce (me, I like Tamora Pierce!) and fantasy adventure stories. Again, I'm holding out hope for a series becauses I just KNOW we've just barely scratched the surface of Kelly's rich imaginary world.
Sira is a loveable and relatable main character, and her coming-of-age style journey left me wanting more adventures with her. The worldbuilding reminded me so much of Final Fantasy VI (in a good way) with the steampunky mix of magic and tech. I loved the tension Scriven built up between those two opposing technologies, and I'm sure she has more stories to tell about this world and Sira's role in it.
Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable story that belongs on the shelves of anyone who likes authors like Tamora Pierce (me, I like Tamora Pierce!) and fantasy adventure stories. Again, I'm holding out hope for a series becauses I just KNOW we've just barely scratched the surface of Kelly's rich imaginary world.
February 20, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In a narrative woven with the delicate threads of magic and adventure, the story of Sira and her incredible journey unfolds with an enchanting allure. This book captivates its readers from the very first page, carrying them through a whirlwind of emotions and breathtaking escapades.
The tale begins with Sira, the lone girl at the prestigious Fly Academy, where she faces both external challenges and the internal struggles of being the only female amidst a sea of male classmates. But when she does her exams, they get attacked and shot down by seemingly sky pirates, and she finds herself with James Hawk, the mage, on the run from relentless mercenaries. The tension between trust and suspicion adds a gripping layer to their relationship. Sira’s uncertainty about James’s true intentions keeps readers on edge, questioning every twist and turn in their journey. The target seems to be James, but what mysteries does he harbor? Can Sira trust him in a world where betrayal lurks around every corner?
Their perilous journey leads them to the mysterious Fae village, a place where humans are far from welcome. Here, Sira learns something that changes how she sees her past, uncovering truths about herself and the world around her.
As Sira and James face life-and-death situations, their bond deepens, and they come eye to eye with their own vulnerabilities and strengths. The constant threat of their pursuers looms large, creating a sense of urgency that propels the narrative forward. Can they outwit those who chase them? Can they find allies in a world where trust is a rare commodity?
The story's heart lies in Sira’s growth as she learns to carve her own destiny amidst the chaos. Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of determination, and the importance of embracing one's true self. The themes of identity, trust, and the quest for freedom resonate deeply, making this tale not just an adventure but a profound exploration of the human condition. What stands out in this enthralling narrative is the seamless blend of action, adventure, and the pursuit of destiny.
In conclusion, the book is a magical journey that enchants and challenges its readers. With its captivating storyline, richly developed characters, and the ever-present element of magic, it leaves a lasting impression.
If you’re searching for a tale of bravery, self-discovery, and enchantment, look no further. This book has it all, and it promises to be a series that will captivate hearts and minds for years to come.
In a narrative woven with the delicate threads of magic and adventure, the story of Sira and her incredible journey unfolds with an enchanting allure. This book captivates its readers from the very first page, carrying them through a whirlwind of emotions and breathtaking escapades.
The tale begins with Sira, the lone girl at the prestigious Fly Academy, where she faces both external challenges and the internal struggles of being the only female amidst a sea of male classmates. But when she does her exams, they get attacked and shot down by seemingly sky pirates, and she finds herself with James Hawk, the mage, on the run from relentless mercenaries. The tension between trust and suspicion adds a gripping layer to their relationship. Sira’s uncertainty about James’s true intentions keeps readers on edge, questioning every twist and turn in their journey. The target seems to be James, but what mysteries does he harbor? Can Sira trust him in a world where betrayal lurks around every corner?
Their perilous journey leads them to the mysterious Fae village, a place where humans are far from welcome. Here, Sira learns something that changes how she sees her past, uncovering truths about herself and the world around her.
As Sira and James face life-and-death situations, their bond deepens, and they come eye to eye with their own vulnerabilities and strengths. The constant threat of their pursuers looms large, creating a sense of urgency that propels the narrative forward. Can they outwit those who chase them? Can they find allies in a world where trust is a rare commodity?
The story's heart lies in Sira’s growth as she learns to carve her own destiny amidst the chaos. Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of determination, and the importance of embracing one's true self. The themes of identity, trust, and the quest for freedom resonate deeply, making this tale not just an adventure but a profound exploration of the human condition. What stands out in this enthralling narrative is the seamless blend of action, adventure, and the pursuit of destiny.
In conclusion, the book is a magical journey that enchants and challenges its readers. With its captivating storyline, richly developed characters, and the ever-present element of magic, it leaves a lasting impression.
If you’re searching for a tale of bravery, self-discovery, and enchantment, look no further. This book has it all, and it promises to be a series that will captivate hearts and minds for years to come.
August 29, 2025
This story is an enticing, exciting, layered blend of steampunk, magic and mystery with a little sprinkle of YA romance to round out the 5 star appeal.
I think this is Kelly Scriven's first novel but her writing is incredibly smooth and pleasing to read. She has that wonderful skill of establishing her world with succinct yet vivid language that just feels easy. It's paced well, with cycles of calm and tension that kept me in riveted and let me feel the frustration, glows of pride and waves of anxiety with the characters. They all felt authentic, but happily for me, lacked any spontaneous rashness that often accompanies younger MC's.
I liked Sira, the FMC. Her ambition to be an airship pilot, despite family pressure to utilise her magic, impressed me - "Why did she fly? Why did she breathe?". She had direction, appropriate maturity and the strength to ignore judgement by people who didn't know her. I would have liked to have seen more of her piloting or even working aboard the airships but this story uses a mix of settings so what the author gave felt right.
I liked the mix of steam technology and magic. It can often be one or the other but this blending was clever and the way one was used to support or enhance the other was a good metaphor for the political situation in this society (and didn't that hint at future machinations!)
The romance arc was really satisfying. I liked that Sira and James didn't have some spontaneous infatuation and each was able to see the others' flaws. Some of those little internal conversations were pretty funny! "She could slap the confused look off his face. She had her fill of condescending guys at the Academy, and just when she thought he was pretty decent, he proved himself not all that different.".
This really is an enjoyable read and a captivating start to a series. Book 2 is out soon and will be high on my TBR. Kelly Scriven is a talented new author who's work deserves many eyes on it.
I think this is Kelly Scriven's first novel but her writing is incredibly smooth and pleasing to read. She has that wonderful skill of establishing her world with succinct yet vivid language that just feels easy. It's paced well, with cycles of calm and tension that kept me in riveted and let me feel the frustration, glows of pride and waves of anxiety with the characters. They all felt authentic, but happily for me, lacked any spontaneous rashness that often accompanies younger MC's.
I liked Sira, the FMC. Her ambition to be an airship pilot, despite family pressure to utilise her magic, impressed me - "Why did she fly? Why did she breathe?". She had direction, appropriate maturity and the strength to ignore judgement by people who didn't know her. I would have liked to have seen more of her piloting or even working aboard the airships but this story uses a mix of settings so what the author gave felt right.
I liked the mix of steam technology and magic. It can often be one or the other but this blending was clever and the way one was used to support or enhance the other was a good metaphor for the political situation in this society (and didn't that hint at future machinations!)
The romance arc was really satisfying. I liked that Sira and James didn't have some spontaneous infatuation and each was able to see the others' flaws. Some of those little internal conversations were pretty funny! "She could slap the confused look off his face. She had her fill of condescending guys at the Academy, and just when she thought he was pretty decent, he proved himself not all that different.".
This really is an enjoyable read and a captivating start to a series. Book 2 is out soon and will be high on my TBR. Kelly Scriven is a talented new author who's work deserves many eyes on it.
May 25, 2025
Learned a lot about the main character Sira within the first few paragraphs. Like what a dedicated, determined worker she is toward reaching her goals.
How her uncle seemingly doesn't believe in her ambitions.
Ambitious was her need to become an airship pilot instead of a mage as her uncle wished.
This lead us into a great discovery throughout of world-building.
A combination of steam steampunk and magical fantasy.
Much loved was the support of Sira's twin brother Sam amist hearing she was doing well as a pilot in training. Her test not going to plan not withstanding, but that announcement of triumph must've felt great. To know family doesn't often believe in you but once you got the results you can say that you were successful with pride.
Then they'll believe.
Oftentimes even though you have that moment of accomplishment, some still won't believe in you or be cautious in their beliefs towards you because they're not certain you took the right path.
A reminder that only you know the path for you. People give good advice but people can accomplish their dreams with enough determination. It's better to try than not.
Sira & Sam have such a cute sibling dynamic. Not understanding one another at times but still so endearing towards one another. The cute nicknames their mother gave them they call one another when parting ways is so heartwarming.
"Firefly" & "Little Duckling".
How obviously cute is that.
Description of the airship functionality pulls you into the world further with each explanation. The way Sira reports for duty shows further dedication throughout, risen to the occasion.
The implementation of fae into this world with the mystery of her mother, her powers, and her companion adds layers.
How her uncle seemingly doesn't believe in her ambitions.
Ambitious was her need to become an airship pilot instead of a mage as her uncle wished.
This lead us into a great discovery throughout of world-building.
A combination of steam steampunk and magical fantasy.
Much loved was the support of Sira's twin brother Sam amist hearing she was doing well as a pilot in training. Her test not going to plan not withstanding, but that announcement of triumph must've felt great. To know family doesn't often believe in you but once you got the results you can say that you were successful with pride.
Then they'll believe.
Oftentimes even though you have that moment of accomplishment, some still won't believe in you or be cautious in their beliefs towards you because they're not certain you took the right path.
A reminder that only you know the path for you. People give good advice but people can accomplish their dreams with enough determination. It's better to try than not.
Sira & Sam have such a cute sibling dynamic. Not understanding one another at times but still so endearing towards one another. The cute nicknames their mother gave them they call one another when parting ways is so heartwarming.
"Firefly" & "Little Duckling".
How obviously cute is that.
Description of the airship functionality pulls you into the world further with each explanation. The way Sira reports for duty shows further dedication throughout, risen to the occasion.
The implementation of fae into this world with the mystery of her mother, her powers, and her companion adds layers.
August 18, 2025
Taking Flight is a wonderful debut novel that I'm so glad I picked up on a whim after reading another review on it. It fits within YA science fantasy with airships alongside magic, taking what appeared to be fairly standard academy focussed fantasy into a far wider narrative with danger, battles, inter-species politics and human politics. It's fairly simple narratively, yet offers a breadth of world-building and some wonderful characterisations and relationship building.
Sira is the only female at the Fly Academy and is on the verge of taking (and hopefully passing) her exams that will allow her to take on her full training and give her new opportunities. Yet Sira's dreams seem to come crashing down when her flight is attacked by pirates and the exam brought to an early end. Her second attempt ends even more catastrophically and her and the mage on board find themselves the only two survivors of the dramatic crash that leaves them with more questions than answers.
This is a novel that caught me from the opening pages - I'm a sucker for academy fiction - but also managed to keep me reading at a break-neck pace long after the academy elements stopped being the key focus. I loved the characterisations of both Sira and James and felt the way their relationship was built was both subtle and very realistic. They were thrown together by unforeseen circumstances and have to learn to trust each other, particularly as both have secrets they have been keeping close. There's action, threat and a plot that twists and turns at unexpected moments as well as some wider world-building that was a fascinating glimpse at the wider world the author is building around the characters.
All in all, I'll look forward to book 2 which should hopefully be coming out mid September as I'm definitely intrigued to see how this continues to build and expand.
There was also a 16 page bonus scene from James perspective that I picked up by joining the newsletter. I liked the glimpse behind the scenes but this would have been better if it had been fleshed out a little more as 16 pages really isn't enough pages to do a lot with at all.
Sira is the only female at the Fly Academy and is on the verge of taking (and hopefully passing) her exams that will allow her to take on her full training and give her new opportunities. Yet Sira's dreams seem to come crashing down when her flight is attacked by pirates and the exam brought to an early end. Her second attempt ends even more catastrophically and her and the mage on board find themselves the only two survivors of the dramatic crash that leaves them with more questions than answers.
This is a novel that caught me from the opening pages - I'm a sucker for academy fiction - but also managed to keep me reading at a break-neck pace long after the academy elements stopped being the key focus. I loved the characterisations of both Sira and James and felt the way their relationship was built was both subtle and very realistic. They were thrown together by unforeseen circumstances and have to learn to trust each other, particularly as both have secrets they have been keeping close. There's action, threat and a plot that twists and turns at unexpected moments as well as some wider world-building that was a fascinating glimpse at the wider world the author is building around the characters.
All in all, I'll look forward to book 2 which should hopefully be coming out mid September as I'm definitely intrigued to see how this continues to build and expand.
There was also a 16 page bonus scene from James perspective that I picked up by joining the newsletter. I liked the glimpse behind the scenes but this would have been better if it had been fleshed out a little more as 16 pages really isn't enough pages to do a lot with at all.
February 11, 2025
Feisty female heroine YA science fantasy.
Our female heroine is the only girl in her year and gets good grades, but has yet to pass her exam to progress with practical airship flying. Things do not go smoothly and she ends up saving the life of/having her life saved by the famous magic user who was also one of her examiners.
Both these characters have secrets which are revealed through the course of the story. There are dramatic and deadly perils they face in their quest to discover who sabotaged their flight. They also have to journey to the centre where all the main agencies are located. Who can be trusted and the motive behind the attack are revealed by the choices our main characters take. There is a satisfying ending to this story which leaves the door open for sequels.
I engaged with the characters and found some of the events intriguing, however the full five is with-held because I thought the pace was too slow in places - perhaps because the world-building overtook the plot and character development. I would be happy to hear more of this character duo.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Our female heroine is the only girl in her year and gets good grades, but has yet to pass her exam to progress with practical airship flying. Things do not go smoothly and she ends up saving the life of/having her life saved by the famous magic user who was also one of her examiners.
Both these characters have secrets which are revealed through the course of the story. There are dramatic and deadly perils they face in their quest to discover who sabotaged their flight. They also have to journey to the centre where all the main agencies are located. Who can be trusted and the motive behind the attack are revealed by the choices our main characters take. There is a satisfying ending to this story which leaves the door open for sequels.
I engaged with the characters and found some of the events intriguing, however the full five is with-held because I thought the pace was too slow in places - perhaps because the world-building overtook the plot and character development. I would be happy to hear more of this character duo.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 20, 2025
Taking Flight is a fast paced gaslamp fantasy that kept me highly entertained. I admire an author that can build a well thought out world and create characters that you want to learn more about.
Sira is a strong, independent, highly capable young woman that has a clear goal of becoming an airship pilot. She also happens to have a magic ability that she doesn't quite want to embrace. Which is something that Sira and her twin brother Sam, disagree on. I didn't always like Sira but I think that just made her more relatable.
James Hawk, is a very talented mage that has charm for days but seems to be always putting his foot in his mouth around Sira. When they get stranded together after their airship is shot down they have to learn to rely on each other to make it home alive, because someone is pursuing them to make sure that they don't.
I look forward to the next book in this series!
Sira is a strong, independent, highly capable young woman that has a clear goal of becoming an airship pilot. She also happens to have a magic ability that she doesn't quite want to embrace. Which is something that Sira and her twin brother Sam, disagree on. I didn't always like Sira but I think that just made her more relatable.
James Hawk, is a very talented mage that has charm for days but seems to be always putting his foot in his mouth around Sira. When they get stranded together after their airship is shot down they have to learn to rely on each other to make it home alive, because someone is pursuing them to make sure that they don't.
I look forward to the next book in this series!
February 13, 2025
I feel like this story has a lot of potential, but the book just didn't do it justice for me… I was left with SO many questions and loose ends, like the story barely started before it ended. I found the plot thoroughly unsatisfactory, as if the writer just needed some explanation for all the things that happened, so decided this should be it. There where no clues whatsoever, it didn't in any way feel like a good explanation, and I couldn't believe… This was it..?
The world building was honestly confusing, so many things went unexplained.
There is a spark of romance, but where did it come from..? Just because two people of a different gender happened to get stuck together?
I hate to give reviews like this because I understand and appreciate the effort that goes into writing a book. I really think this story could probably be the foundation for a series, but then please give more details and depth!
I received an ARC through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntary.
The world building was honestly confusing, so many things went unexplained.
There is a spark of romance, but where did it come from..? Just because two people of a different gender happened to get stuck together?
I hate to give reviews like this because I understand and appreciate the effort that goes into writing a book. I really think this story could probably be the foundation for a series, but then please give more details and depth!
I received an ARC through BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntary.
January 15, 2026
My summary: Sera is going to take her exam to become a pilot for airships, but her exam is interrupted by an attack. When she sees someone fall from the airship, she dives after him, and they must work together to find their way back to the city.
I have no negatives for the book. It was technically correct and sound. However, nothing about the book stirred up emotion in me. It had airships, danger, an attack, secrets, a bit of romance, action, an expansive history and culture, and realistic characters, but I didn’t connect with the story. Maybe it was the narrator who sounded monotone and emotionless to me, or maybe it was Sera’s attitude, which annoyed me, but since it felt realistic, I can’t call it be negative. So I think it could be an enjoyable book, but it just wasn’t for me.
Overall: An exciting story
I have no negatives for the book. It was technically correct and sound. However, nothing about the book stirred up emotion in me. It had airships, danger, an attack, secrets, a bit of romance, action, an expansive history and culture, and realistic characters, but I didn’t connect with the story. Maybe it was the narrator who sounded monotone and emotionless to me, or maybe it was Sera’s attitude, which annoyed me, but since it felt realistic, I can’t call it be negative. So I think it could be an enjoyable book, but it just wasn’t for me.
Overall: An exciting story
December 26, 2024
What an amazing debut! The author built such a unique fantasy world with a dash of steampunk. I don't think I've ever read a book that contained both airships and fae! The FMC, Sira, is a strong character; she knows what she wants even if it's against tradition and she won't let anyone walk all over her. James is kind of a chameleon but underneath the confident and charming mask he wears for the sake of his position, he's a sweet, adorable nerd. Both MCs have big secrets to keep which adds another layer of depth to their personalities and to the plot. There's a hint of slow burn romance which I adore. And somehow the author manages to leave the reader wanting more of the world and characters at the end, without a big cliffhanger.
March 18, 2025
Taking Flight is the kind of YA fantasy that grabs you right away and keeps you hooked until the last page. With a strong, smart heroine and just the right amount of magic, it’s a fast-paced, exciting read that never drags.
The protagonist is easy to root for—determined, brave, and not afraid to take risks. The magic adds an intriguing layer to the story, but it never overshadows the characters or their journey. There are plenty of twists and surprises along the way, and just when you think you have things figured out, something new pulls you deeper into the mystery.
And the ending? Let’s just say it leaves you desperate for more. If you love YA fantasy with a fierce lead, action, and just a hint of magic, this one’s a must-read!
The protagonist is easy to root for—determined, brave, and not afraid to take risks. The magic adds an intriguing layer to the story, but it never overshadows the characters or their journey. There are plenty of twists and surprises along the way, and just when you think you have things figured out, something new pulls you deeper into the mystery.
And the ending? Let’s just say it leaves you desperate for more. If you love YA fantasy with a fierce lead, action, and just a hint of magic, this one’s a must-read!
July 1, 2025
Disclaimer: I am an author myself, I know this author personally, but my reviews are done as a reader.
And, I'm picky. No spoilers!
This was a great fantasy read with a unique take. The characters were well-developed, the plot was gripping, and the world-building was strong and left a good impression. I appreciated the nuance in our main characters and how those traits interacted among two seemingly different people.
I'm still thinking about it several months later, which is high praise from me. :D
I wished the end had a slightly more satisfying ending, but I get that that's what a book 2 is for. Which I will be reading! Overall a solidly great debut start and a series I look forward to continuing!
And, I'm picky. No spoilers!
This was a great fantasy read with a unique take. The characters were well-developed, the plot was gripping, and the world-building was strong and left a good impression. I appreciated the nuance in our main characters and how those traits interacted among two seemingly different people.
I'm still thinking about it several months later, which is high praise from me. :D
I wished the end had a slightly more satisfying ending, but I get that that's what a book 2 is for. Which I will be reading! Overall a solidly great debut start and a series I look forward to continuing!
January 18, 2025
Taking Flight by Kelly Scriven narrates the tale of Sira, the only female pilot-in-training for airships who finds herself caught in an unexpected and tragic incident while aboard a vessel. She must survive pursuit while navigating a complex and dangerous situation where she discovers shocking details about the world around her, and most importantly, details about the incident itself. There are some interesting things about how magic is used and how it competes against—or enhances—standard technology. Overall, a steady read to pass the time. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2025
Taking Flight follows Sira, a girl that has fought her way to the top of classes in a male-dominated line of work in flight. But when the ship she’s flying is destroyed and only herself and James survive—she’s confronted with dark and dangerous information about her own past and the past of her companion while also having feelings she’s never had before.
Taking Flight is a refreshing fantasy read with reminiscence of stories like Treasure Planet. The characters are intensely lovable and relatable throughout this tale and the scenery is so stunningly written. Definitely a fun and engaging adventurous fantasy read!
Taking Flight is a refreshing fantasy read with reminiscence of stories like Treasure Planet. The characters are intensely lovable and relatable throughout this tale and the scenery is so stunningly written. Definitely a fun and engaging adventurous fantasy read!
September 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this wonderful read. Sira is a character I connected with from the start and the sweet slow burn between her and James is so beautifully written. They are awkward and cute, and the budding relationship is so wholesome. I loved the mystery aspect of this novel, which kept me guessing at what was really going on and definitely surprised me with an interesting twist at the end.
The worldbuilding is also an intriguing mix of magic and technology with airships that would make Studio Ghibli proud. But what stands out most of all is the exceptional pacing. I simply flew through this book, and I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series!
The worldbuilding is also an intriguing mix of magic and technology with airships that would make Studio Ghibli proud. But what stands out most of all is the exceptional pacing. I simply flew through this book, and I am so looking forward to reading the next book in this series!
January 9, 2025
As a debut novel, this book is amazing. It's very well written and keeps you wanting to know what happens next.
Sira is the first female to go to the academy to become an airship pilot. She has dreams of being the best and can't wait to pass her test to get started.
Her brother doesn't like the idea and thinks she should learn other skills that could help the dying magic community.
When the airship she is doing her test on is attacked, everything changes for Sira.
With a strong fmc, fae, magic, airships, and pirates, this book will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
Sira is the first female to go to the academy to become an airship pilot. She has dreams of being the best and can't wait to pass her test to get started.
Her brother doesn't like the idea and thinks she should learn other skills that could help the dying magic community.
When the airship she is doing her test on is attacked, everything changes for Sira.
With a strong fmc, fae, magic, airships, and pirates, this book will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
February 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! The female lead is strong, independent, and refreshingly unwavering—she doesn’t lose herself or weaken around the male lead, which makes her all the more likable.
The male character is equally compelling—fun and intriguing, with a background that adds even more depth to the story. The dynamic between these two is fantastic, with great banter that keeps things engaging.
Overall, this was an exciting adventure, and I loved every moment of it!
Cant wait for the next book!
The male character is equally compelling—fun and intriguing, with a background that adds even more depth to the story. The dynamic between these two is fantastic, with great banter that keeps things engaging.
Overall, this was an exciting adventure, and I loved every moment of it!
Cant wait for the next book!
March 18, 2025
I could barely put Taking Flight down, it is just so good! The world building is done throughout the story and was not complicated. The romance is very sweet and important and not at all important at the same time. It is very well edited with writing that draws you completely into the story. I missed reading it when I did have to put it down and had trouble coming out of the story into real life every time. The book hangover is real with this one. It could absolutely be a standalone novel, but I really hope the author writes more in this world with these characters.
April 29, 2025
4.5 🌟
This book came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. It takes off from the start and doesn't slow down until the very end. Sira, top of her class and passionate about flying airships, is a captivating heroine. She believes the final exam is the only thing standing in her way—until everything changes.
This fantasy is packed with heart, magic, adventure, pirates, and self-discovery. I absolutely adore Sira and hope there are more books about her. I can't wait to read more from this author!
This book came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. It takes off from the start and doesn't slow down until the very end. Sira, top of her class and passionate about flying airships, is a captivating heroine. She believes the final exam is the only thing standing in her way—until everything changes.
This fantasy is packed with heart, magic, adventure, pirates, and self-discovery. I absolutely adore Sira and hope there are more books about her. I can't wait to read more from this author!
November 22, 2025
Taking Flight (Fire & Ice, Book 1) captivated me right from the start! I loved the scenes where Sira is piloting and crewing airships, especially when the action happens. There's also an exciting magic system. Her relationship with her brother and sister-in-law is sweet. The slow-burn romance was also perfectly done. When Sira and James are on the run, the challenge is knowing who they can trust. It's fast-paced and I'm interested to find out what happens next in Drawing Fire (Fire & Ice, Book 2).
January 11, 2025
I could easily see this book adapted with only minor teaks for a movie. (Leah Harvey would be a good cast for Sira, paired with Benedict Cumberbatch as James)
Taking Flight is an easy read that keeps you glued to the pages. There are multiple plot and detail twists that make you think you got it figured out and you understand and then - NOPE. something different.
I hope for a second book to continue this journey. There is still so much to explore and so many threads to tie off.
Taking Flight is an easy read that keeps you glued to the pages. There are multiple plot and detail twists that make you think you got it figured out and you understand and then - NOPE. something different.
I hope for a second book to continue this journey. There is still so much to explore and so many threads to tie off.
January 12, 2025
Kelly Scriven has done something wonderful here. Something magical, rather. With the blending of steampunk fantasy, some actual magic, a little love, and plenty of excitement, she's written what I can only hope is the beginning of a very long series. It's a delightful journey from start to finish. Pick it up, and move it to the top of your tbr pile- you'll be glad you did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2025
I read this book as an ARC and really liked it.
I loved Sira and James and their story. There were quite a few twists and turns in their story but everything panned out in the end. I also really liked the minor characters and how developed a few of them were.
I just felt like there was a little more to the story (maybe another chapter or two) because a few things didn’t seem completely explored but I did really like how it ended.
I loved Sira and James and their story. There were quite a few twists and turns in their story but everything panned out in the end. I also really liked the minor characters and how developed a few of them were.
I just felt like there was a little more to the story (maybe another chapter or two) because a few things didn’t seem completely explored but I did really like how it ended.
August 4, 2025
This was a fantastic debut book!! Sira is the only female at the Academy training to become an airship pilot. The odds have been stacked against her, but she just needs to pass her flying exam. When things go awry, she is left with lots of questions and a struggle for her life. I loved the blend of steampunk elements and magic. It was beautifully crafted.
February 4, 2025
its a little wordy at times but great worldbuilding and interesting plot, pretty darn twisty! I enjoyed this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 20, 2025
I loved this story! I immediately got Treasure Planet vibes that continued for me throughout the story. The combination of magic and technology was so well done, and Sira's story kept me hooked from beginning to end. I can't wait to read the sequel!
February 27, 2025
I am not always a fantasy girlie but I loved this book! Amazing characters! A must read!
June 27, 2025
Excellent book!
I got this on a whim! I wish there was more airship pilot time because that would be really cool but I loved the characters so much!
I got this on a whim! I wish there was more airship pilot time because that would be really cool but I loved the characters so much!
January 22, 2026
A book well done! Well rounded, intriguing and heart warming. Good for the young adults, but definitely a nice read for adults.
February 20, 2025
It is not often that I pick up a book and know that it's a five star read before I'm even 100 pages in. This is one of them. Hands down, it's been my favorite read so far this year. The world building is phenomenal, and the characters are complex yet adorable. Suffice it to say, I need more. A sequel can't come soon enough.
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