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Bright Burns the Flame #1
Bright Burns the Flame
Welcome to the dark and secretive world of Ashthorn Ward, the kingdom’s most brutal military academy—where weapons aren’t forged of steel, but of people.
Nineteen-year-old Lory has spent her life surviving Dunai’s alleys with blades, wits, and an iron will. Now, caught and conscripted, she must endure Ashthorn, where rivals are lethal, failure is fatal, and obedience comes at the cost of herself.
But Lory is not like the others. When the Ward uncovers a dangerous secret in her blood, she’s offered an impossible survive their trials, and she’ll serve the crown as a weapon honed for war. Fail—and she won’t leave Ashthorn alive.
Overseeing her transformation is Captain Khayrivven Falcrest. Cold, ruthless, and utterly untouchable, he’s the last person she should trust—and the only one who seems to see the person beneath the monster the Ward wants her to become.
As war rises beyond the border and rebellion festers in the shadows, Lory must navigate Ashthorn’s deadly games—and her forbidden gift—before both claim her.
Enemies. Rivals. Lovers.
At Ashthorn Ward, trust is a weapon, love is a liability, and the only way out is through blood.
Bright Burns the Flame is the first installment in a darkly romantic fantasyscape, perfect for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, morally gray heroes who fall first and hard, heroines who fight for their own power, and magical academies filled with secrets and danger.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Quicksilver, and A Court of Mist and Fury.
This series is part of the ALCUNAIRE.
Nineteen-year-old Lory has spent her life surviving Dunai’s alleys with blades, wits, and an iron will. Now, caught and conscripted, she must endure Ashthorn, where rivals are lethal, failure is fatal, and obedience comes at the cost of herself.
But Lory is not like the others. When the Ward uncovers a dangerous secret in her blood, she’s offered an impossible survive their trials, and she’ll serve the crown as a weapon honed for war. Fail—and she won’t leave Ashthorn alive.
Overseeing her transformation is Captain Khayrivven Falcrest. Cold, ruthless, and utterly untouchable, he’s the last person she should trust—and the only one who seems to see the person beneath the monster the Ward wants her to become.
As war rises beyond the border and rebellion festers in the shadows, Lory must navigate Ashthorn’s deadly games—and her forbidden gift—before both claim her.
Enemies. Rivals. Lovers.
At Ashthorn Ward, trust is a weapon, love is a liability, and the only way out is through blood.
Bright Burns the Flame is the first installment in a darkly romantic fantasyscape, perfect for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, morally gray heroes who fall first and hard, heroines who fight for their own power, and magical academies filled with secrets and danger.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Quicksilver, and A Court of Mist and Fury.
This series is part of the ALCUNAIRE.
544 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2026
453 people are currently reading
3869 people want to read
About the author
Angelina J. Steffort
40 books1,248 followers"Chocolate fanatic, milk foam enthusiast and strict fan of the southern sting-ray. Writing is an unexpected career path for me."
Angelina J. Steffort is a bestselling, award-winning Austrian novelist, best known for her Wings series and her Shattered Kingdom series. With over twenty YA and adult fantasy and paranormal romance books under her belt, Angelina is far from done with inventing and exploring new worlds. That might have something to do with her passion for following the narrative of new characters and getting surprised by the twists they spin on her stories. Angelina has multiple educational backgrounds including engineering, business, music, and acting. Currently, Angelina lives in Vienna, Austria, with her husband and her son.
Find Angelina online: linktr.ee/ajsteffort
Subscribe to Angelina's newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/ajs_zon_nl
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 486 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
1.25🌶
Bright Burns The Flame by Angelina J. Steffort is an engaging romantasy read that sunk it claws into me and wouldn't let go. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and I regret nothing, not even the lack of sleep.
What's inside:
-Forbidden Romance
-Hidden & Forbidden Magic
-Military Academy
-Mentor/Mentee
-Banter
-Steamy Tension & Yearning
-Slow Burn
-Deadly Trials
-Broken but Strong FMC
-Prophecy
Lory grew up on the streets after her mother died, surviving by stealing what she can and through her own determination and wits. When her luck runs out and she is finally caught, she finds herself conscripted into the King's army - but only if she can survive the deadly training at the Ashthorn military academy first.
While there, she makes her first real friends, but also some brutal enemies that hate her for her heritage. Add in the super hot and spicy Captain Falcrest - he's ruthless, he's cold, and he seems to be utterly devoted to carrying out the kings orders - and though Lory should hate him she finds herself drawn to him like a moth to a flame.
After manifesting a forbidden magical power, Lory finds herself in a precarious position. With the Triad that runs Ashtorn testing her loyalty and her ability to survive, she has to decide who she can trust and if she is willing to pay the cost to make it out alive.
This gives a bit of those Fourth Wing vibes. A girl trying to survive a military academy when the odds seem stacked against her. The characters are well written and their secrets illuminated a little at a time. The world continues to develop as the story progresses. and the plot kept me hooked wanting to know where it would take me next.
The tension between Lory and Falcrest is hot and the banter even had me laughing out loud a time or two. The the back and forth between our two MCs was on point and stirred that tension and yearning perfectly. The side characters were a perfect addition and added to the storyline and to Lory's development through the book. And, there are so many secrets with the different characters in this book that it's hard to trust if the characters are who they seem to be. It definitely kept my guessing and wondering what the different motivations were for some of them, as the story was designed to do.
I definitely enjoyed this one and will 100% be continuing the series. If you like your romanatasy with that delicious, slow-burn tension that is just on the edge of snapping -until it does, with an FMC that isn't sure who she can trust, deadly trials, a prophecy, secrets, and an MMC that is quite yummy, then this is absolutely a book that you should read! It will not disappoint.
Thank you to Angelina J Steffort for an eARC of this book.
1.25🌶
Bright Burns The Flame by Angelina J. Steffort is an engaging romantasy read that sunk it claws into me and wouldn't let go. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and I regret nothing, not even the lack of sleep.
What's inside:
-Forbidden Romance
-Hidden & Forbidden Magic
-Military Academy
-Mentor/Mentee
-Banter
-Steamy Tension & Yearning
-Slow Burn
-Deadly Trials
-Broken but Strong FMC
-Prophecy
Lory grew up on the streets after her mother died, surviving by stealing what she can and through her own determination and wits. When her luck runs out and she is finally caught, she finds herself conscripted into the King's army - but only if she can survive the deadly training at the Ashthorn military academy first.
While there, she makes her first real friends, but also some brutal enemies that hate her for her heritage. Add in the super hot and spicy Captain Falcrest - he's ruthless, he's cold, and he seems to be utterly devoted to carrying out the kings orders - and though Lory should hate him she finds herself drawn to him like a moth to a flame.
After manifesting a forbidden magical power, Lory finds herself in a precarious position. With the Triad that runs Ashtorn testing her loyalty and her ability to survive, she has to decide who she can trust and if she is willing to pay the cost to make it out alive.
This gives a bit of those Fourth Wing vibes. A girl trying to survive a military academy when the odds seem stacked against her. The characters are well written and their secrets illuminated a little at a time. The world continues to develop as the story progresses. and the plot kept me hooked wanting to know where it would take me next.
The tension between Lory and Falcrest is hot and the banter even had me laughing out loud a time or two. The the back and forth between our two MCs was on point and stirred that tension and yearning perfectly. The side characters were a perfect addition and added to the storyline and to Lory's development through the book. And, there are so many secrets with the different characters in this book that it's hard to trust if the characters are who they seem to be. It definitely kept my guessing and wondering what the different motivations were for some of them, as the story was designed to do.
I definitely enjoyed this one and will 100% be continuing the series. If you like your romanatasy with that delicious, slow-burn tension that is just on the edge of snapping -until it does, with an FMC that isn't sure who she can trust, deadly trials, a prophecy, secrets, and an MMC that is quite yummy, then this is absolutely a book that you should read! It will not disappoint.
Thank you to Angelina J Steffort for an eARC of this book.
Read
March 8, 2026- post read -
WELL. i have not slept one bit tonight, but at least i finished my book ☺️
rtc
- preread -
one of my goals this year is to read more less “popular” books and this book is enemies to lovers with a badass fmc so sign me the fuck up
WELL. i have not slept one bit tonight, but at least i finished my book ☺️
rtc
- preread -
one of my goals this year is to read more less “popular” books and this book is enemies to lovers with a badass fmc so sign me the fuck up
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to thank the author for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I applied for this ARC because the ads on social media and the premise sounded right up my alley. I mean who doesn't love a good enemies to lover romantasy with deadly trials?? Unfortunately, this did not work for me at all. While the premise has promise, this feels more like a first draft than a polished, ready to publish manuscript.
We follow Lory who is a street rat, a term used heavily to describe the dire circumstances of her youth. In the opener of the book, we learn that Lory does not have any remaining family aside from a father that does not want her, and she survives on thievery and deception. This for me, was a really cool opener and from the jump this was looking like a 3 star. The writing style isn't the best but had the characters and plot been more developed, the style in writing would have been serviceable.
After getting captured, Lory is forced to attend a special academy in lieu of execution. It's here that the book starts to unravel for me. Lory is an incredibly underdeveloped FMC with little to no personality. Which seems fitting considering the MMC also has little to no personality. Their banter is genuinely boring or cringey. The character dynamics in the book, whether it be romantic, friendly, or enemies, are not explored or developed well, and the plot relies heavily on tropes and conveniences to move the pace along. The school they attend is supposed to be high stakes, but the only deaths really just occur because students are late to breakfast or toward the end when the school decides on a really awkwardly placed and not well explained trial that feels like its sole purpose is for drama. Lory spends a lot of the book away from the education but is still expected to be tested, and there is basically no time spent on her training.
Much of this book feels like the author made a checklist of all of the things romantasy readers love in books and shoved them in wherever she could to mark them off her list without much thought for substance or continuity. There is a moment toward the end of the book where the main character counts 7 attackers then pauses because she identifies 2 more and settles on the total number being 8. Now I'm no math whizz, but this isn't adding up.
I think there is an audience for this, it's just unfortunately not me.
I applied for this ARC because the ads on social media and the premise sounded right up my alley. I mean who doesn't love a good enemies to lover romantasy with deadly trials?? Unfortunately, this did not work for me at all. While the premise has promise, this feels more like a first draft than a polished, ready to publish manuscript.
We follow Lory who is a street rat, a term used heavily to describe the dire circumstances of her youth. In the opener of the book, we learn that Lory does not have any remaining family aside from a father that does not want her, and she survives on thievery and deception. This for me, was a really cool opener and from the jump this was looking like a 3 star. The writing style isn't the best but had the characters and plot been more developed, the style in writing would have been serviceable.
After getting captured, Lory is forced to attend a special academy in lieu of execution. It's here that the book starts to unravel for me. Lory is an incredibly underdeveloped FMC with little to no personality. Which seems fitting considering the MMC also has little to no personality. Their banter is genuinely boring or cringey. The character dynamics in the book, whether it be romantic, friendly, or enemies, are not explored or developed well, and the plot relies heavily on tropes and conveniences to move the pace along. The school they attend is supposed to be high stakes, but the only deaths really just occur because students are late to breakfast or toward the end when the school decides on a really awkwardly placed and not well explained trial that feels like its sole purpose is for drama. Lory spends a lot of the book away from the education but is still expected to be tested, and there is basically no time spent on her training.
Much of this book feels like the author made a checklist of all of the things romantasy readers love in books and shoved them in wherever she could to mark them off her list without much thought for substance or continuity. There is a moment toward the end of the book where the main character counts 7 attackers then pauses because she identifies 2 more and settles on the total number being 8. Now I'm no math whizz, but this isn't adding up.
I think there is an audience for this, it's just unfortunately not me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW ✨️
INFINITY STARS!!!! This dark secret world of Ashthorn Ward was what you call a movie in your mind kind of read! It had me entranced from beginning to end on the edge of my seat! Elory lived on the streets and was caught for stealing. Put on trial to be put to death but was conscripted to Ashthorn Ward instead.Where the weapons were people. Brutal academy of deadly trials. The magical abilities will consume you. The unexpected friendships found family, banter, and lethal secrets were everything. FMC Elory is one badass who just got one bad hand after another and still keeps rising up every time and just gets stronger. MMC Khayrivven Falcrest the Captain the Hot mentor. You'll get slow burn, forbidden romance, morally gray hero. The world and the characters are so well written. I highly recommend reading Bright Burns the Flame!!!!! 🔥 you dont want to miss this one!!! Releases February 28, 2026
INFINITY STARS!!!! This dark secret world of Ashthorn Ward was what you call a movie in your mind kind of read! It had me entranced from beginning to end on the edge of my seat! Elory lived on the streets and was caught for stealing. Put on trial to be put to death but was conscripted to Ashthorn Ward instead.Where the weapons were people. Brutal academy of deadly trials. The magical abilities will consume you. The unexpected friendships found family, banter, and lethal secrets were everything. FMC Elory is one badass who just got one bad hand after another and still keeps rising up every time and just gets stronger. MMC Khayrivven Falcrest the Captain the Hot mentor. You'll get slow burn, forbidden romance, morally gray hero. The world and the characters are so well written. I highly recommend reading Bright Burns the Flame!!!!! 🔥 you dont want to miss this one!!! Releases February 28, 2026
Review of advance copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved the FMC Lory and all things that are in the secretive world of Ashthorn Ward, keeping up with the story kept me on the edge of my seat I could not put it down. The MMC however was a different story. He was dark and brooding (the best kind ever) with his share of secrets which MMC doesn't. If you like academy based settings with a thrill, if high stakes pretty sure this book is definitely for you. I cant wait for the second one!
Loved the FMC Lory and all things that are in the secretive world of Ashthorn Ward, keeping up with the story kept me on the edge of my seat I could not put it down. The MMC however was a different story. He was dark and brooding (the best kind ever) with his share of secrets which MMC doesn't. If you like academy based settings with a thrill, if high stakes pretty sure this book is definitely for you. I cant wait for the second one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this copy as an Early Access reader in exchange for my honest review.
This is a great introduction to our FMC Lory and all things that are in Brestolya. Following this story kept me on the edge of my seat I didnt want to put it down. The MMC is dark and brooding (the best kind) with his share of secrets. If you like academy based settings with a thrill for high stakes this book is definitely for you. I cant wait for the second one!
This is a great introduction to our FMC Lory and all things that are in Brestolya. Following this story kept me on the edge of my seat I didnt want to put it down. The MMC is dark and brooding (the best kind) with his share of secrets. If you like academy based settings with a thrill for high stakes this book is definitely for you. I cant wait for the second one!
February 18, 2026
Wow! This book was packed with action, secrets, and magic, and it pulled me in right from the very start. If I didn’t have a job, I would have devoured it in one sitting!
Lory is an incredible FMC with a powerful survival instinct. Angelina did a fantastic job developing her character and showing not only her determination to survive in a world that wants her dead, but also her fierce loyalty to the friends who become her found family.
And Khay… he is everything you want in a MMC: dark, broody, mysterious, and absolutely lethal. He moves like a shadow, carries dangerous secrets, and feels an undeniable pull toward Lory. The chemistry between them is unmistakable, but trust doesn’t come easily in an academy filled with people who hate her for who she is and the magic she possesses.
This is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers story that will leave you desperate for more. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Angelina J. Steffort once again proves why she’s one of my favorite authors.
Lory is an incredible FMC with a powerful survival instinct. Angelina did a fantastic job developing her character and showing not only her determination to survive in a world that wants her dead, but also her fierce loyalty to the friends who become her found family.
And Khay… he is everything you want in a MMC: dark, broody, mysterious, and absolutely lethal. He moves like a shadow, carries dangerous secrets, and feels an undeniable pull toward Lory. The chemistry between them is unmistakable, but trust doesn’t come easily in an academy filled with people who hate her for who she is and the magic she possesses.
This is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers story that will leave you desperate for more. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Angelina J. Steffort once again proves why she’s one of my favorite authors.
February 6, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy.
This is my first book from this author and it certainly didn’t disappoint! It was action packed and kept my interest all the way through. I stayed up all night reading it. I loved all the characters especially the friends Lory made in this academy. I didn’t expect the academy to be so brutal so check your triggers before going into it. However I didn’t mind the goriness of it. The world building was decent but I wanted more of it in the book. But I did enjoy the character development and the magic system is really cool. I love a good elemental story. The ending though felt like it was a bit abrupt. I was waiting for something big to happen and I just didn’t quite get that. I was like, that’s it? But it looks like there’s more books to the series and definitely want to continue it when the next book comes out. Overall definitely had a good time with it.
This is my first book from this author and it certainly didn’t disappoint! It was action packed and kept my interest all the way through. I stayed up all night reading it. I loved all the characters especially the friends Lory made in this academy. I didn’t expect the academy to be so brutal so check your triggers before going into it. However I didn’t mind the goriness of it. The world building was decent but I wanted more of it in the book. But I did enjoy the character development and the magic system is really cool. I love a good elemental story. The ending though felt like it was a bit abrupt. I was waiting for something big to happen and I just didn’t quite get that. I was like, that’s it? But it looks like there’s more books to the series and definitely want to continue it when the next book comes out. Overall definitely had a good time with it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A captivating read.
I really enjoyed the academic setting and found magic. The friendships and allies formed are a bonus and the love interest is sizzling.
I really enjoyed the academic setting and found magic. The friendships and allies formed are a bonus and the love interest is sizzling.
March 10, 2026
This is a healing balm for a Fourth Wing hangover! 😍❤️🔥
Lory has survived her whole life by stealing. Growing up in poverty, she targets drunk fools in taverns, until one day she’s caught by the King’s guards. Instead of being executed, she’s sent to the Ashthotn Ward, an academy where young people train to become the King’s magical weapons. In this world, magic users can control water, wind, minds, dreams, light…and the most dangerous power of all: fire. The problem? Lory doesn’t seem to have any magic.
The academy is brutal. The trials are deadly, and many Ashlings don’t survive. Lory must fight every day just to stay alive. At the same time, she can’t ignore her growing attraction to Falcrest, the Captain of the Guards, the same man who arrested her. Their chemistry is intense from the start, full of tension, banter filled dialogues, rivalry and forbidden attraction. Y’ALL I can’t resist a forbidden romance specially when between mentor and mentee and these two hate each other 🫠 also the MMC, Captain Falcrest, is ruthless, dark & brooding (exactly my type!) this book needs to be on every Romantasy-girlies TBR asap!
Lory has survived her whole life by stealing. Growing up in poverty, she targets drunk fools in taverns, until one day she’s caught by the King’s guards. Instead of being executed, she’s sent to the Ashthotn Ward, an academy where young people train to become the King’s magical weapons. In this world, magic users can control water, wind, minds, dreams, light…and the most dangerous power of all: fire. The problem? Lory doesn’t seem to have any magic.
The academy is brutal. The trials are deadly, and many Ashlings don’t survive. Lory must fight every day just to stay alive. At the same time, she can’t ignore her growing attraction to Falcrest, the Captain of the Guards, the same man who arrested her. Their chemistry is intense from the start, full of tension, banter filled dialogues, rivalry and forbidden attraction. Y’ALL I can’t resist a forbidden romance specially when between mentor and mentee and these two hate each other 🫠 also the MMC, Captain Falcrest, is ruthless, dark & brooding (exactly my type!) this book needs to be on every Romantasy-girlies TBR asap!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an advanced reader copy and am so grateful for Angelina to have chosen me for this opportunity!
Wow! What a ride this book was! I couldn't put this book down, every little twist and turn had me wanting to grab the next chapter! The entire book you just keep rooting for Lory to find her happy place and the challenges they keep throwing at her keep you thinking what next!?
Lory is a very well thought out character with a big heart and while some of her line of thinking and questioning was mildly irritating, coming from her background and trust issues I have to remember why she is the way she is.
The relationships she has throughout the book both friendships and with a love interest are not rushed or forced and had a very good feel to them. And the spicy scene...I won't spoil it but dang more of that in the next one please!
Also Frost is by far my favorite side character in this book. The big brother character she needed for sure.
I am absolutely bummed the second book isn't out yet and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! this was definitely worth the read and made me a new big fan of Angelina's work!
Wow! What a ride this book was! I couldn't put this book down, every little twist and turn had me wanting to grab the next chapter! The entire book you just keep rooting for Lory to find her happy place and the challenges they keep throwing at her keep you thinking what next!?
Lory is a very well thought out character with a big heart and while some of her line of thinking and questioning was mildly irritating, coming from her background and trust issues I have to remember why she is the way she is.
The relationships she has throughout the book both friendships and with a love interest are not rushed or forced and had a very good feel to them. And the spicy scene...I won't spoil it but dang more of that in the next one please!
Also Frost is by far my favorite side character in this book. The big brother character she needed for sure.
I am absolutely bummed the second book isn't out yet and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! this was definitely worth the read and made me a new big fan of Angelina's work!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first ARC and omg. the best kind of torture, because this book isn't even out yet and I'm DYING for book 2 🥺
This book was impossible for me to put down. I love love LOVE Khay and everything about him (even tho reading his name was a struggle every time it was spelled out fully lol). There are a few moments (mostly 1 in particular) that have the worst similarities to The Empyrean series (not meaning worst as a bad thing just.. IYKYK 😩💔). Lory is adorable, albeit a little naïve, I had to keep reminding myself that she was older than my brain kept trying to make her. I can't wait to see how she develops.
This book was impossible for me to put down. I love love LOVE Khay and everything about him (even tho reading his name was a struggle every time it was spelled out fully lol). There are a few moments (mostly 1 in particular) that have the worst similarities to The Empyrean series (not meaning worst as a bad thing just.. IYKYK 😩💔). Lory is adorable, albeit a little naïve, I had to keep reminding myself that she was older than my brain kept trying to make her. I can't wait to see how she develops.
February 8, 2026
I received this book as an eARC and let me tell you friends…
I loved this book! I was literally HOOKED five chapters in and could not put it down! The world building,the story blended so well and I felt had great pacing!
Bright Burns The Flame is dark and brutal and yet, has romance and suspense. It takes place (for the majority) in an academy setting at Ashthorn Ward, and we get to see a really interesting magic system tied into its history, which we loveeee! There is a broody/dark MMC, a resilient/kick-ass FMC and one of my favorite tropes: found family. And honestly, just about all the characters are morally grey but so dynamic, whitty and have depth to them as well as great character development.
So if you like enemies-to-lovers, romantasy, dark academia, slow burn, and super cool magic… this is THEE book for you!
I loved this book! I was literally HOOKED five chapters in and could not put it down! The world building,the story blended so well and I felt had great pacing!
Bright Burns The Flame is dark and brutal and yet, has romance and suspense. It takes place (for the majority) in an academy setting at Ashthorn Ward, and we get to see a really interesting magic system tied into its history, which we loveeee! There is a broody/dark MMC, a resilient/kick-ass FMC and one of my favorite tropes: found family. And honestly, just about all the characters are morally grey but so dynamic, whitty and have depth to them as well as great character development.
So if you like enemies-to-lovers, romantasy, dark academia, slow burn, and super cool magic… this is THEE book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a review of an advance copy I received from the author.
I thought I was prepared. I thought wrong. So, since wrong. This book had me in a chokehold from start to finish, and I could NOT put it down after the first ten chapters. I haven't been this excited about an upcoming release in a hot minute, and eagerly await the next installment!
I thought I was prepared. I thought wrong. So, since wrong. This book had me in a chokehold from start to finish, and I could NOT put it down after the first ten chapters. I haven't been this excited about an upcoming release in a hot minute, and eagerly await the next installment!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5☆
BBTF gives me Fourth Wing meets the Hunger Games vibes. It's a fast paced, epic fantasy with romance, rivalry, deception and deadly games set in a brutal and secret military style academy, Ashthorn Ward. At Ashthorn, the students are molded into lethal weapons, honing their magic (which is forbidden for the general population) as well as their fighting skills. From the beginning, there was plenty of action and events unfolding. The ending was action packed, sad, and leaves the reader ready for book 2! This book shocked me and made me say "wow!" so many times! You absolutely want this book on your TBR now!!
A little more detailed review (potential spoilers):
Lory grew up as a "street rat", thieving and surviving through a sheer determination to live. Unfortunately she targets the wrong person on one of her heists and faces death or conscription to Ashthorn. Lory knows absolutely nothing about the secret academy, magic wielders being allowed to live, or what flows in her own blood but she wants to live. Khayrivven is the youngest captain in the army and the one who brings Lory to Ashthorn. Lory has a clear hatred toward her captor, though she's not blind to the captain's good looks. Their romance is a slow burn at first, which has small little fires bursting out leading to some fun banter between them. I was hoping for a little more banter and definitely more longing, but there was always so much action and surviving, a potential budding (forbidden) relationship with Khayrivven wasn't Lory's top priority. Surviving was!
Even just within a day at Ashthorn, Lory learns how truly brutal the secret academy really is and knows it will take all her wits to survive. Knowing who to trust is an insurmountable problem. The majority of the other students are dangerous and problematic. Enemies are made almost instantly. Even the leadership and instructors are potential enemies. There are a few presumably decent students she's able to make potential allies and even become friends with. Of course, being the cutthroat academy it is, I'm always waiting for the betrayal or backstabbing to happen...
Favorite quotes and noteworthy content -
“If it wasn’t for the fact that you want to bite my head off right now, I’d tell you how sexy you look in those.” ~ Khayrivven
“I’ll lie and deceive and watch the world go up in flames if it means you’ll live.” ~ Khayrivven
“Apparently, you ignite me, little Flame.” ~ Khayrivven
... if she was a monster by the magic she carried in her blood—if that was what people believed, mercy might be the only way to prove them wrong. (Lory)
I loved Lory's names for the people along the way (gray braid, observant eyes, top knot)..
A specific hope for book 2 (Big spoiler):
I desperately hope book 2 explores why Lory's magic is feared and said to be more dangerous than the others. Based on the battles at the end of book 1, it seems all their magics can be destructive (especially body manipulation, voice stopping/control, lightening, frost and astral projection!)..
BBTF gives me Fourth Wing meets the Hunger Games vibes. It's a fast paced, epic fantasy with romance, rivalry, deception and deadly games set in a brutal and secret military style academy, Ashthorn Ward. At Ashthorn, the students are molded into lethal weapons, honing their magic (which is forbidden for the general population) as well as their fighting skills. From the beginning, there was plenty of action and events unfolding. The ending was action packed, sad, and leaves the reader ready for book 2! This book shocked me and made me say "wow!" so many times! You absolutely want this book on your TBR now!!
A little more detailed review (potential spoilers):
Lory grew up as a "street rat", thieving and surviving through a sheer determination to live. Unfortunately she targets the wrong person on one of her heists and faces death or conscription to Ashthorn. Lory knows absolutely nothing about the secret academy, magic wielders being allowed to live, or what flows in her own blood but she wants to live. Khayrivven is the youngest captain in the army and the one who brings Lory to Ashthorn. Lory has a clear hatred toward her captor, though she's not blind to the captain's good looks. Their romance is a slow burn at first, which has small little fires bursting out leading to some fun banter between them. I was hoping for a little more banter and definitely more longing, but there was always so much action and surviving, a potential budding (forbidden) relationship with Khayrivven wasn't Lory's top priority. Surviving was!
Even just within a day at Ashthorn, Lory learns how truly brutal the secret academy really is and knows it will take all her wits to survive. Knowing who to trust is an insurmountable problem. The majority of the other students are dangerous and problematic. Enemies are made almost instantly. Even the leadership and instructors are potential enemies. There are a few presumably decent students she's able to make potential allies and even become friends with. Of course, being the cutthroat academy it is, I'm always waiting for the betrayal or backstabbing to happen...
Favorite quotes and noteworthy content -
“If it wasn’t for the fact that you want to bite my head off right now, I’d tell you how sexy you look in those.” ~ Khayrivven
“I’ll lie and deceive and watch the world go up in flames if it means you’ll live.” ~ Khayrivven
“Apparently, you ignite me, little Flame.” ~ Khayrivven
... if she was a monster by the magic she carried in her blood—if that was what people believed, mercy might be the only way to prove them wrong. (Lory)
I loved Lory's names for the people along the way (gray braid, observant eyes, top knot)..
A specific hope for book 2 (Big spoiler):
I desperately hope book 2 explores why Lory's magic is feared and said to be more dangerous than the others. Based on the battles at the end of book 1, it seems all their magics can be destructive (especially body manipulation, voice stopping/control, lightening, frost and astral projection!)..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review: Bright Burns the Flame (The Ashthorn Ward, #1)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A massive thank you to Angelina J. Streffort for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Angelina J. Streffort is a total auto-read author for me. I’ve lived and breathed every book in the ALCUNAIRE universe, and while Shattered Kingdom has always been my top series of all time, Bright Burns the Flame might just give it a run for its money. Once I started, I was completely sucked in—I literally could not put this book down!
The Setting & Plot
The Ashthorn Ward is exactly the kind of dark, brutal military academy setting I crave. It’s lethal, secretive, and perfectly atmospheric. The way the plot unfolds with constant twists, turns, and shocking reveals kept me on the edge of my seat. Angelina has a gift for world-building that feels expansive yet intimate.
The Characters
Lory is such a powerhouse FMC. She starts the story so alone, but seeing her build a found family with the other students was so rewarding. Despite the brutality she faces, she keeps her kindness and her "iron will" intact—she’s the type of character who helps others even when she shouldn't, and you can’t help but root for her.
Then, there is Captain Khayrivven Falcrest. Chef’s kiss. He is dark, secretive, and ruthless, but the way he sees the real Lory beneath the "weapon" the Ward wants her to be? I'm obsessed. The yearning between these two is palpable and the slow-burn tension is executed perfectly.
The Verdict
If you love Fourth Wing or ACOTAR, you need this on your TBR immediately. It has everything: found family, a morally gray hero who falls first, and a heroine who fights for her own power. I am already dying for the next book!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A massive thank you to Angelina J. Streffort for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Angelina J. Streffort is a total auto-read author for me. I’ve lived and breathed every book in the ALCUNAIRE universe, and while Shattered Kingdom has always been my top series of all time, Bright Burns the Flame might just give it a run for its money. Once I started, I was completely sucked in—I literally could not put this book down!
The Setting & Plot
The Ashthorn Ward is exactly the kind of dark, brutal military academy setting I crave. It’s lethal, secretive, and perfectly atmospheric. The way the plot unfolds with constant twists, turns, and shocking reveals kept me on the edge of my seat. Angelina has a gift for world-building that feels expansive yet intimate.
The Characters
Lory is such a powerhouse FMC. She starts the story so alone, but seeing her build a found family with the other students was so rewarding. Despite the brutality she faces, she keeps her kindness and her "iron will" intact—she’s the type of character who helps others even when she shouldn't, and you can’t help but root for her.
Then, there is Captain Khayrivven Falcrest. Chef’s kiss. He is dark, secretive, and ruthless, but the way he sees the real Lory beneath the "weapon" the Ward wants her to be? I'm obsessed. The yearning between these two is palpable and the slow-burn tension is executed perfectly.
The Verdict
If you love Fourth Wing or ACOTAR, you need this on your TBR immediately. It has everything: found family, a morally gray hero who falls first, and a heroine who fights for her own power. I am already dying for the next book!
February 21, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review!! This is my first book from this Author but she did not disappoint and will definitely be one of my go to Authors!! Lory is a street rat just wanting to survive the brutal world day by day!. She steals from the wrong person and gets picked up and is faced with a trial and to be sentenced to death by sunset. She gets saved by a mysterious person at the last minute and is taken to a special academy and has to go through training. Why does he keep saving her and what is so special about her that she gets to go to this academy? This book was action packed and had me from beginning to end by the edge of my seat!! Absolutely phenomenal book and is a must read!! Chefs kiss Angelina J. Steffort and can’t wait for the next book!!
“Bright Burns the Flame is the first installment in a darkly romantic fantasyscape, perfect for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, morally gray heroes who fall first and hard, heroines who fight for their own power, and magical academies filled with secrets and danger.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Quicksilver, and A Court of Mist and Fury.
This series is part of the ALCUNAIRE.”
“Bright Burns the Flame is the first installment in a darkly romantic fantasyscape, perfect for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, morally gray heroes who fall first and hard, heroines who fight for their own power, and magical academies filled with secrets and danger.
Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Quicksilver, and A Court of Mist and Fury.
This series is part of the ALCUNAIRE.”
February 13, 2026
Brutal, emotional, and completely unforgettable
Bright Burns the Flame by Angelina J. Steffort was absolute perfection. From the very first chapter, I was completely pulled into the dark and brutal world of Ashthorn Ward—and I never wanted to leave.
Ashthorn Ward is one of the most gripping settings I’ve read in a long time. A military academy that doesn’t just train soldiers, but turns people into weapons, creates such a tense and unforgiving atmosphere. Every trial felt high stakes, every interaction layered with danger, and the constant sense of survival kept me on edge the entire time.
Lory was such a compelling main character. Her strength, resilience, and vulnerability made her impossible not to root for. Watching her navigate the cruelty of Ashthorn while grappling with the dangerous secret in her blood was both emotional and captivating. And Captain Khayrivven Falcrest… the tension, the restraint, the complexity between them was EVERYTHING. The slow build, the yearning, the push and pull—it was written so beautifully and painfully well.
The twists and reveals were incredible. Just when I thought I understood what was happening, something new would unravel and raise the stakes even higher. The emotional weight, the tension, and the constant feeling that something devastating or transformative was right around the corner made this impossible to put down.
And that ending?!?! I’m still not over it. I need book two immediately because I refuse to accept that it ends there.
If you love brutal military academies, deadly trials, emotional tension, and slow-burning, high-stakes relationships, this book is an absolute must-read. I’m already counting down until the sequel.
Bright Burns the Flame by Angelina J. Steffort was absolute perfection. From the very first chapter, I was completely pulled into the dark and brutal world of Ashthorn Ward—and I never wanted to leave.
Ashthorn Ward is one of the most gripping settings I’ve read in a long time. A military academy that doesn’t just train soldiers, but turns people into weapons, creates such a tense and unforgiving atmosphere. Every trial felt high stakes, every interaction layered with danger, and the constant sense of survival kept me on edge the entire time.
Lory was such a compelling main character. Her strength, resilience, and vulnerability made her impossible not to root for. Watching her navigate the cruelty of Ashthorn while grappling with the dangerous secret in her blood was both emotional and captivating. And Captain Khayrivven Falcrest… the tension, the restraint, the complexity between them was EVERYTHING. The slow build, the yearning, the push and pull—it was written so beautifully and painfully well.
The twists and reveals were incredible. Just when I thought I understood what was happening, something new would unravel and raise the stakes even higher. The emotional weight, the tension, and the constant feeling that something devastating or transformative was right around the corner made this impossible to put down.
And that ending?!?! I’m still not over it. I need book two immediately because I refuse to accept that it ends there.
If you love brutal military academies, deadly trials, emotional tension, and slow-burning, high-stakes relationships, this book is an absolute must-read. I’m already counting down until the sequel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I recieved an e-ARC directly from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read your work!**
**This review may contain spoilers**
I really do my best to not leave reviews below 3 stars. I truly do because I know how much work and persistence it takes to write a book. in spite of my opinions, I do hope this book finds its audience.
This book has really good bones- the history of the setting and the magic systems are very interesting and well thought out. However, I think the execution of the ideas presented, as far as storyline and world-building, fell very flat. This is where a good content editor would have made a massive difference.
The FMC, who is supposedly in her early twenties and grew up in the streets, is very one dimensional. There was nothing about her that inspired me to care about her situation or thr decisions she made. Her circumstances are sad but her personality was non-existent and she seemed to have no goals in life, no hopess or dreams or even basic beliefs about anything that would have given us a reason to root for her. This also means that there was no tension. Which brings me to my next major criticism.
The only threat or obstacle the FMC ever encounters is death. She never really put up a fight for herself (probably due to lack of goals/hopes/dreams other than living for another day). Overall, Lory was a very passive and unmotivated character. Our supporting characters at the Academy were no better. I had a difficult time telling everyone apart because none of them had any sort of unique personality.
The MMC is only slightly more interesting, but only because we don't see him constantly, but every time we do we get a repetitive description of his hair, eyes, clothes, and generically intimidating demeanor. He consistently 'broke character' for no reason other than to help Lory, which is an odd choice given his position. One would assume he would be more subtle if he has hidden motives not in alignment with his role in the military, especially since the only motivation any character is given is to avoid a totally unceremonious death for arbitrary infractions ranging from being late to breakfast to just plain messing up on a dangerous training course. And the character deaths we do see on page are underwhelming. It is used as a way to show us how deadly and secretive and brutal the supposed training program is, but it just comes off as though the author couldn't come up with any other way to convey these attributes other than "if you screw up in any way you die". There is no tension, no suspense, only repetitive actions and words.
It is also worth noting that these supposedly late teen, early to mid twenty-somethings act the way a middle school students writing about adults would act. I had the same criticism for Fourth Wing (which I DNF'd); a bunch of kids saying and doing reckless things to prove they are an adult.
The entire book is extremely repetitive. The descriptions, the actions, the dialogue- all repeated every chapter. I was actually able to skip several chapters and not really miss anything. The insta-lust, which didn't make any sense for the main FMC and MMC, considering their respective positions in society. The MMC does reveal later in the book how incredibly talented the FMC is but we, the audience, don't actually see any of this talent at all in the first half of the book. In fact, there is nothing special or unique or interesting about Lory other than her circumstances and her new-found magical ability which she neither understands or controls, nor had any inkling of prior to having it forced out of her at the Academy.
Overall, I thought this was a classic case of "telling, not showing". There was zero relationship development between any of the characters. We don't even really get a sense of what the FMC felt about her brother until it's convenient to remind us that he is dead. Once again, good ideas but poor execution. I'm kind of hoping the author will consider a re-write in the future.
**This review may contain spoilers**
I really do my best to not leave reviews below 3 stars. I truly do because I know how much work and persistence it takes to write a book. in spite of my opinions, I do hope this book finds its audience.
This book has really good bones- the history of the setting and the magic systems are very interesting and well thought out. However, I think the execution of the ideas presented, as far as storyline and world-building, fell very flat. This is where a good content editor would have made a massive difference.
The FMC, who is supposedly in her early twenties and grew up in the streets, is very one dimensional. There was nothing about her that inspired me to care about her situation or thr decisions she made. Her circumstances are sad but her personality was non-existent and she seemed to have no goals in life, no hopess or dreams or even basic beliefs about anything that would have given us a reason to root for her. This also means that there was no tension. Which brings me to my next major criticism.
The only threat or obstacle the FMC ever encounters is death. She never really put up a fight for herself (probably due to lack of goals/hopes/dreams other than living for another day). Overall, Lory was a very passive and unmotivated character. Our supporting characters at the Academy were no better. I had a difficult time telling everyone apart because none of them had any sort of unique personality.
The MMC is only slightly more interesting, but only because we don't see him constantly, but every time we do we get a repetitive description of his hair, eyes, clothes, and generically intimidating demeanor. He consistently 'broke character' for no reason other than to help Lory, which is an odd choice given his position. One would assume he would be more subtle if he has hidden motives not in alignment with his role in the military, especially since the only motivation any character is given is to avoid a totally unceremonious death for arbitrary infractions ranging from being late to breakfast to just plain messing up on a dangerous training course. And the character deaths we do see on page are underwhelming. It is used as a way to show us how deadly and secretive and brutal the supposed training program is, but it just comes off as though the author couldn't come up with any other way to convey these attributes other than "if you screw up in any way you die". There is no tension, no suspense, only repetitive actions and words.
It is also worth noting that these supposedly late teen, early to mid twenty-somethings act the way a middle school students writing about adults would act. I had the same criticism for Fourth Wing (which I DNF'd); a bunch of kids saying and doing reckless things to prove they are an adult.
The entire book is extremely repetitive. The descriptions, the actions, the dialogue- all repeated every chapter. I was actually able to skip several chapters and not really miss anything. The insta-lust, which didn't make any sense for the main FMC and MMC, considering their respective positions in society. The MMC does reveal later in the book how incredibly talented the FMC is but we, the audience, don't actually see any of this talent at all in the first half of the book. In fact, there is nothing special or unique or interesting about Lory other than her circumstances and her new-found magical ability which she neither understands or controls, nor had any inkling of prior to having it forced out of her at the Academy.
Overall, I thought this was a classic case of "telling, not showing". There was zero relationship development between any of the characters. We don't even really get a sense of what the FMC felt about her brother until it's convenient to remind us that he is dead. Once again, good ideas but poor execution. I'm kind of hoping the author will consider a re-write in the future.
February 24, 2026
I for one will never be late for breakfast (when you read it you’ll understand).
What can be said about a book that destroys, invigorates, and exceeds all your expectations? From the first chapter I was completely blown away, and already in love with the story. It’s brutal, gritty, and intense and one word I would use to describe this novel is EPIC. I would constantly find myself anxious for what’s about to happen to Lory, or what punishment the triad would think of next.
The found family in this book was beautiful. Lory, Thal, Aiden and Tabi formed a group on mutual respect and their dedication towards each other gave this book a lot of heart amidst the tragedy and trauma. I really liked the bond formed between Lory and Aiden, they complimented and uplifted each other in a way that reflected true friendship.
Angelina created an incredible FMC named Lory who is complex, loyal, and unyielding. She is written beautifully to the extent that you want to know more about her backstory, and you’re constantly worried about her survival. Even though there was so much of the book left, my heart stopped each time I thought Lory would take her last breath. It’s great to see a character who doesn’t shy from her past, and doesn’t let others tear her down. Her wit and loyalty had me cheering her on page after page.
I do need to talk about Khayrivven Falcrest… he is the man we have been waiting for. His snark, arrogance, and wicked personality had me wanting for more. He brought fire to this book, and made the slow burn worth the wait. I dreaded the chapters he wasn’t part of. You start out the book thinking you’re going to hate him, and you end up in love with a fictional character who stop at nothing to defend those he cares about (Lory most of all).
I knew I was going to love this book, but I didn’t know i would love it this much! The magic system is intricately crafted that leaves readers breathless and awestruck. The story had the perfect flow, making it easy to be introduced to this world, and to follow along with the plot. I won’t lie and say my heart was fully intact when I finished this book, but the devastation is worth it. Pick up this book and let it ignite the passion to delve into one of the best romantasy books of the year.
Thank you so much Angelina for letting me arc read this novel, I have never been as enthused to write a review for a book before.
What can be said about a book that destroys, invigorates, and exceeds all your expectations? From the first chapter I was completely blown away, and already in love with the story. It’s brutal, gritty, and intense and one word I would use to describe this novel is EPIC. I would constantly find myself anxious for what’s about to happen to Lory, or what punishment the triad would think of next.
The found family in this book was beautiful. Lory, Thal, Aiden and Tabi formed a group on mutual respect and their dedication towards each other gave this book a lot of heart amidst the tragedy and trauma. I really liked the bond formed between Lory and Aiden, they complimented and uplifted each other in a way that reflected true friendship.
Angelina created an incredible FMC named Lory who is complex, loyal, and unyielding. She is written beautifully to the extent that you want to know more about her backstory, and you’re constantly worried about her survival. Even though there was so much of the book left, my heart stopped each time I thought Lory would take her last breath. It’s great to see a character who doesn’t shy from her past, and doesn’t let others tear her down. Her wit and loyalty had me cheering her on page after page.
I do need to talk about Khayrivven Falcrest… he is the man we have been waiting for. His snark, arrogance, and wicked personality had me wanting for more. He brought fire to this book, and made the slow burn worth the wait. I dreaded the chapters he wasn’t part of. You start out the book thinking you’re going to hate him, and you end up in love with a fictional character who stop at nothing to defend those he cares about (Lory most of all).
I knew I was going to love this book, but I didn’t know i would love it this much! The magic system is intricately crafted that leaves readers breathless and awestruck. The story had the perfect flow, making it easy to be introduced to this world, and to follow along with the plot. I won’t lie and say my heart was fully intact when I finished this book, but the devastation is worth it. Pick up this book and let it ignite the passion to delve into one of the best romantasy books of the year.
Thank you so much Angelina for letting me arc read this novel, I have never been as enthused to write a review for a book before.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! This book took off right from the gates. Keeps a good pace. Frost throws a curveball I never saw coming. This book left me with some questions at the end but the ending is such a cliffhanger that I'm not gonna be able to resist the next book. 😁
*received an ARC
*received an ARC
February 25, 2026
Thank you to the author for the gifted eARC. Opinions are my own.
This is the romantasy book to cure your Fourth Wing hangover (and give you another one honestly)
Bright Burns the Flame follows Lory, a 19 year old thief who has been surviving on the streets for most of her life. When she is caught for her crimes, she is spared from execution and conscripted to the secretive Ashton Ward—an academy that trains people with magic abilities for war. Failure means death. And overseeing her training is the ruthless (and infuriatingly attractive) Captain Khayrivven Falcrest.
Add Bright Burns the Flame to your TBR if you love:
- Slow burn enemies to lovers romance
- Brutal Academies
- Badass FMC
- Mentor x Mentee
- Forbidden Romance
- Lethal Secrets
- Found family
I had the opportunity to read the eARC and when I tell you I 👏 ate 👏 this 👏 up! The story follows a steady pace, with tension and stakes growing with each chapter and revelation leading up to a fantastic finale! My favorite part? The characters! Lory is the epitome of the strong, resilient protagonist, and she's surrounded by a great cast of supporting characters. The found family was SO GOOD (and emotional, I have shed tears of joy but also of pain). And then of course, the romance! I admit I would have liked for a bit more substance to the relationship before the attraction took over, but the chemistry between Lory and Falcrest? IMMACULATE. Xaden girlies will adore this snarky, secretive, infuriating man and his wicked mouth (and his excellent nicknames for Lory).
Rating: 4.5
This is the romantasy book to cure your Fourth Wing hangover (and give you another one honestly)
Bright Burns the Flame follows Lory, a 19 year old thief who has been surviving on the streets for most of her life. When she is caught for her crimes, she is spared from execution and conscripted to the secretive Ashton Ward—an academy that trains people with magic abilities for war. Failure means death. And overseeing her training is the ruthless (and infuriatingly attractive) Captain Khayrivven Falcrest.
Add Bright Burns the Flame to your TBR if you love:
- Slow burn enemies to lovers romance
- Brutal Academies
- Badass FMC
- Mentor x Mentee
- Forbidden Romance
- Lethal Secrets
- Found family
I had the opportunity to read the eARC and when I tell you I 👏 ate 👏 this 👏 up! The story follows a steady pace, with tension and stakes growing with each chapter and revelation leading up to a fantastic finale! My favorite part? The characters! Lory is the epitome of the strong, resilient protagonist, and she's surrounded by a great cast of supporting characters. The found family was SO GOOD (and emotional, I have shed tears of joy but also of pain). And then of course, the romance! I admit I would have liked for a bit more substance to the relationship before the attraction took over, but the chemistry between Lory and Falcrest? IMMACULATE. Xaden girlies will adore this snarky, secretive, infuriating man and his wicked mouth (and his excellent nicknames for Lory).
Rating: 4.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
You know when you've finished a really good book and you're just stuck in the zone of "what do I do now"...yea thats how I feel. This book had everything, deadly trials, academia setting, magic, yearning, hidden identities, fight for your life or die trying. With one Fmc who will claw her way out of all twists and turns that come for her. The banter is great, the tension and spice hit just right. If you enjoyed Direbound, Fourth Wing, and are on the hunt for the next epic series this one's for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an early digital copy of the book prior to release, yay! Overall, id say 4.5/5 stars for this romantasy book personally. I am invested in the characters now and Im excited for Book 2 when that comes out!
the plot especially in the beginning felt pretty typical romantasy....skinny struggling sad past girl gets into more trouble, meets a dangerous gorgeous trainer guy at an military academy for magic users... standard fourth wing w/o dragons kinda stuff. There were 2 spicier scenes i did enjoy and the romance side of things doesnt feel too forced/out of the blue. was it groundbreaking... not yet. The MMC kinda gives Xaden Riorsen meets Four from Divergent vibes in a way... and the plot is leaning TOG vibes in a way. (I did NOT like the FMC's nickname given by the MMC and it was used quite frequently lolz...). but, this is just the first book, so we'll wait and see!
(* semi Spoiler: the Blindfold Scene was one of my favorites)
(* semi spoiler: * for fourth wing readers... the author does kinda pull a "Liam" ... little mad/sad about that lolz....)
but overall, an enjoyable read and I was super happy to get a chance to read this for free before release day! thank you! and im excited to find out what is next in store for our characters. :)
the plot especially in the beginning felt pretty typical romantasy....skinny struggling sad past girl gets into more trouble, meets a dangerous gorgeous trainer guy at an military academy for magic users... standard fourth wing w/o dragons kinda stuff. There were 2 spicier scenes i did enjoy and the romance side of things doesnt feel too forced/out of the blue. was it groundbreaking... not yet. The MMC kinda gives Xaden Riorsen meets Four from Divergent vibes in a way... and the plot is leaning TOG vibes in a way. (I did NOT like the FMC's nickname given by the MMC and it was used quite frequently lolz...). but, this is just the first book, so we'll wait and see!
(* semi Spoiler: the Blindfold Scene was one of my favorites)
(* semi spoiler: * for fourth wing readers... the author does kinda pull a "Liam" ... little mad/sad about that lolz....)
but overall, an enjoyable read and I was super happy to get a chance to read this for free before release day! thank you! and im excited to find out what is next in store for our characters. :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down and didn't want it to end. Angelina story telling kept me on the edge of my seat. Not only will Khayrivven "Khay" and Elory "Lory" make you feel all the emotions, the character building and back stories in this book is top notch. A must read for readers who like a slow burn, deadly trail, hidden magic, tenson and yearning set in a secret military academy. Angelina knows how to keep your heart racing and hit you with an unexpected twist.
Thank you Angelina for my 1st ARC read and I can't wait for book 2.
Thank you Angelina for my 1st ARC read and I can't wait for book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has it all. I enjoyed every bit of it. I can't wait for book 2.
February 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I was lucky enough to receive an eARC of Bright Burns the Flame. This book is marketed for readers who enjoyed Fourth Wing and ACOMAF and I can honestly say it hit the mark. While I feel like the academic romantasy setting is being done a lot, I didn’t feel like this felt repetitive and had new aspects of a secret magic academy and definitely has more darker elements than Fourth Wing (ex: school killing people for being late to breakfast). You immediately get hooked into the storyline and it felt impossible to put down. Lory is our fierce FMC who you want to cheer for throughout the book. Falcrest is our broody MMC who hoards secrets and you still don’t really know how many he’s holding onto by the end of the book. Their chemistry was a little fast paced but it was well done! Overall I really enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next book in this installment!
I was lucky enough to receive an eARC of Bright Burns the Flame. This book is marketed for readers who enjoyed Fourth Wing and ACOMAF and I can honestly say it hit the mark. While I feel like the academic romantasy setting is being done a lot, I didn’t feel like this felt repetitive and had new aspects of a secret magic academy and definitely has more darker elements than Fourth Wing (ex: school killing people for being late to breakfast). You immediately get hooked into the storyline and it felt impossible to put down. Lory is our fierce FMC who you want to cheer for throughout the book. Falcrest is our broody MMC who hoards secrets and you still don’t really know how many he’s holding onto by the end of the book. Their chemistry was a little fast paced but it was well done! Overall I really enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next book in this installment!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2026
This book started off strong and had me hooked.
Unfortunately, the FMC was reading younger than she was supposed to be and it bothered me so badly. Along with that, the romance part was too fast—like almost immediately when they met. There was no building, just straight in—both had feelings and were drawn to each other.
The actual plot had promise, but I was so taken out of the story and just didn’t care. Now, I was feeling slumpy, so all this to say—this should be given a chance! I think I would’ve enjoyed it more had I been in the right mood for it.
2.5⭐️ - definitely worth a shot, just wasn’t for me at the time!
Unfortunately, the FMC was reading younger than she was supposed to be and it bothered me so badly. Along with that, the romance part was too fast—like almost immediately when they met. There was no building, just straight in—both had feelings and were drawn to each other.
The actual plot had promise, but I was so taken out of the story and just didn’t care. Now, I was feeling slumpy, so all this to say—this should be given a chance! I think I would’ve enjoyed it more had I been in the right mood for it.
2.5⭐️ - definitely worth a shot, just wasn’t for me at the time!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could've read this whole book in one sitting! It is exhilarating with a slow burn but when it burns it ignites! Imagine all your favorite books in one (HP, Hunger Games, Fourth Wing to say a few.) Best thing about it is it releasing in just a couple weeks. I can't wait for you to meet Lory and kayrivven! Move over Violet and Xaden. Your mind will be blown!
February 15, 2026
This is a Review of an ARC Received from Author.
I was shocked at how much I loved this book! Keep reading for an in-depth review, including literary devices.
“You have no idea the faith I have in you,Lory, and I’ve long given up on the gods.”
The FMC is a strong character who chooses her family over everyone. Much like Katniss from The Hunger Games, she’s willing to sacrifice herself for the people she loves. She’s a very masculine female character and someone who comes from nothing, which will appeal to all readers (again, much like Katniss). “That’s how she always did it—the knife merely there to cut loose whatever items she stole, but never stabbing her victims, never killing.”
While the book begins in media res, you don’t mind finding out more as you read because you are thrust right into the action. The exposition is mainly provided through dialogue between Lory and other characters, however, there is a dual POV at the end that provides more details.
One of my favorite tropes is Found Family. This being an academy setting is bound to have that. The side characters are the best! “real friends like this, she’d never even known existed.”
The setting of a secret military academy is one not much different from Basgiath in Fourth Wing, but even more intense. Everyone is after Lory, including the faculty, so you don’t know who to trust (again, much like Violet in Fourth Wing), but she is a strong character that always ends up on top without sacrificing her morals. “Ashthorn Ward is the most secretive academy in Brestolya… By joining this academy, you give up your right to speak about what you see here, what you learn, and what you do with his knowledge. If you fail to keep confidentiality, you will die.”
The antagonist is pure evil, but Lory never breaks. While the antagonist is one body, it consists of 3 people, each with their own powers and reasons for wanting to oppose Lory. Much like Voldemort in Harry Potter, these authoritative figures being the villain to Lory’s hero is foreshadowing of the power that Lory represents (much like Harry’s wizardry). “That’s the deal, take it or die.”
The deus ex machina— which I will not spoil— is unexpected and arrives just in time for the biggest cliffhanger since Onyx Storm!
The cliffhanger has me dying for the next book! Without spoiling, I truly kept turning these last few pages so fast because of the action and the fast pace. So, when I came to the last line, I was flipping back and forth thinking ‘this can’t be over yet!’
And lastly, my favorite: the MMC. Captain Khayrivven Falcrest is everything a male main character in a great fantasy needs to be. He’s brooding, he’s the most powerful, he’s the captain (hello authority figure!), and he’s willing to sacrifice for those he loves. If you love everything about the dark and beautiful MMCs like Xaden and Kingfisher, you will absolutely fall in love with Khayrivven. (Also, the author is incredible for hinting at one of his greatest secrets in the early chapters, and you won’t even notice until the reveal that you’ve had the secret all along!)
“I want to find out if you’ll be my savior or my demise.”
I was shocked at how much I loved this book! Keep reading for an in-depth review, including literary devices.
“You have no idea the faith I have in you,Lory, and I’ve long given up on the gods.”
The FMC is a strong character who chooses her family over everyone. Much like Katniss from The Hunger Games, she’s willing to sacrifice herself for the people she loves. She’s a very masculine female character and someone who comes from nothing, which will appeal to all readers (again, much like Katniss). “That’s how she always did it—the knife merely there to cut loose whatever items she stole, but never stabbing her victims, never killing.”
While the book begins in media res, you don’t mind finding out more as you read because you are thrust right into the action. The exposition is mainly provided through dialogue between Lory and other characters, however, there is a dual POV at the end that provides more details.
One of my favorite tropes is Found Family. This being an academy setting is bound to have that. The side characters are the best! “real friends like this, she’d never even known existed.”
The setting of a secret military academy is one not much different from Basgiath in Fourth Wing, but even more intense. Everyone is after Lory, including the faculty, so you don’t know who to trust (again, much like Violet in Fourth Wing), but she is a strong character that always ends up on top without sacrificing her morals. “Ashthorn Ward is the most secretive academy in Brestolya… By joining this academy, you give up your right to speak about what you see here, what you learn, and what you do with his knowledge. If you fail to keep confidentiality, you will die.”
The antagonist is pure evil, but Lory never breaks. While the antagonist is one body, it consists of 3 people, each with their own powers and reasons for wanting to oppose Lory. Much like Voldemort in Harry Potter, these authoritative figures being the villain to Lory’s hero is foreshadowing of the power that Lory represents (much like Harry’s wizardry). “That’s the deal, take it or die.”
The deus ex machina— which I will not spoil— is unexpected and arrives just in time for the biggest cliffhanger since Onyx Storm!
The cliffhanger has me dying for the next book! Without spoiling, I truly kept turning these last few pages so fast because of the action and the fast pace. So, when I came to the last line, I was flipping back and forth thinking ‘this can’t be over yet!’
And lastly, my favorite: the MMC. Captain Khayrivven Falcrest is everything a male main character in a great fantasy needs to be. He’s brooding, he’s the most powerful, he’s the captain (hello authority figure!), and he’s willing to sacrifice for those he loves. If you love everything about the dark and beautiful MMCs like Xaden and Kingfisher, you will absolutely fall in love with Khayrivven. (Also, the author is incredible for hinting at one of his greatest secrets in the early chapters, and you won’t even notice until the reveal that you’ve had the secret all along!)
“I want to find out if you’ll be my savior or my demise.”
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