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Rise of the Firebird #1
A Single Captive Spark
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26In the brutal aftermath of a human-changeling war, a twist of fate throws two enemies together to fight for their love and survival in a sweeping dark fantasy of betrayal, magic, and romance.
In the centuries-long battle between humans and changelings, those who are taken by the changelings do not live. They do not return. They are simply gone. And for the humans left behind, there is only the brutal reign of the Irskan king.
Having spent her life in the castle, Fionna has protected herself and her younger sister by securing a position as a servant. But when the rebels mistake Fionna for the Irskan princess, she becomes a hostage of Helio, the cruel changeling leader whose mismatched eyes haunt her dreams. Drawn to Helio even as she attempts to escape the rebels, Fionna finds herself questioning everything she once believed about his cause.
For Helio, undying loyalty to the rebels saved him from the ravages of war. But his hostage blunder has put his people in peril. He may possess secret magic, but even he is not immune to Fionna’s charms. Uncovering what she knows about the castle may prove to be his most dangerous mission yet.
In this sweeping dark fantasy, a dangerous game of love, loyalty, and betrayal will decide the fate of a nation.
In the centuries-long battle between humans and changelings, those who are taken by the changelings do not live. They do not return. They are simply gone. And for the humans left behind, there is only the brutal reign of the Irskan king.
Having spent her life in the castle, Fionna has protected herself and her younger sister by securing a position as a servant. But when the rebels mistake Fionna for the Irskan princess, she becomes a hostage of Helio, the cruel changeling leader whose mismatched eyes haunt her dreams. Drawn to Helio even as she attempts to escape the rebels, Fionna finds herself questioning everything she once believed about his cause.
For Helio, undying loyalty to the rebels saved him from the ravages of war. But his hostage blunder has put his people in peril. He may possess secret magic, but even he is not immune to Fionna’s charms. Uncovering what she knows about the castle may prove to be his most dangerous mission yet.
In this sweeping dark fantasy, a dangerous game of love, loyalty, and betrayal will decide the fate of a nation.
301 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
March 29, 2026
Hi so this was really great. This is an actual enemies to lovers and I’m here for it. I really like the world building and history we get in here. We get a lot without it feeling like an info dump which is always a plus. Also loved the anxiety representation as a girlie with anxiety. I loved Fionna so much. Also the twist? Very twisty. I was SHOOK. Emberly is a goddess and I can’t wait for everyone to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well, Emberly Ash has done it again.
She wrote a book that completely pulled me in, kept me turning pages, and then left me desperately wanting more by the time I reached the end. Thankfully, this time she showed a little mercy and did not leave me with a completely gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Progress, I suppose.
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty.
The world-building in A Single Captive Spark was fabulous. The story takes place in a country divided between humans and changelings. The changelings once welcomed humans, only to have that trust shattered when the humans turned against them. The history, tensions, and prejudices between the two groups felt believable and were woven so naturally into the story that the world never felt like a lecture. It simply existed around the characters, making everything feel richer and more immersive.
The plot hooked me immediately. A woman is kidnapped because she's believed to be a princess, except she isn't. She's the servant. Enter a rebel leader who made the mistake... or perhaps he didn't. Watching everything unfold from there was incredibly entertaining.
But the real heart of this story is the characters.
Fionna and Helio were fantastic. Fionna is some of the best anxiety representation I have read in a fantasy novel. Her struggles felt authentic, nuanced, and thoughtfully written. It never felt exaggerated or simplified, just real. As someone who appreciates seeing characters with genuine challenges, I loved how Emberly Ash handled her.
Both Fionna and Helio are carrying the weight of traumatic childhoods, and they come from opposite sides of a conflict that has shaped their entire lives. Watching them slowly find common ground despite everything stacked against them was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their interactions felt natural, layered, and emotionally honest.
The pacing was also spot on. There was plenty of action to keep the story moving, but the quieter moments were given room to breathe. Those slower scenes allowed the characters to develop and deepen in ways that made the bigger moments hit even harder.
This was a fantastic start to what promises to be an amazing series. I loved the world, I loved the characters, and I am already impatiently waiting for the next book. If you're looking for fantasy filled with rebellion, changelings, and complicated characters, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
She wrote a book that completely pulled me in, kept me turning pages, and then left me desperately wanting more by the time I reached the end. Thankfully, this time she showed a little mercy and did not leave me with a completely gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Progress, I suppose.
Now let's get down to the nitty-gritty.
The world-building in A Single Captive Spark was fabulous. The story takes place in a country divided between humans and changelings. The changelings once welcomed humans, only to have that trust shattered when the humans turned against them. The history, tensions, and prejudices between the two groups felt believable and were woven so naturally into the story that the world never felt like a lecture. It simply existed around the characters, making everything feel richer and more immersive.
The plot hooked me immediately. A woman is kidnapped because she's believed to be a princess, except she isn't. She's the servant. Enter a rebel leader who made the mistake... or perhaps he didn't. Watching everything unfold from there was incredibly entertaining.
But the real heart of this story is the characters.
Fionna and Helio were fantastic. Fionna is some of the best anxiety representation I have read in a fantasy novel. Her struggles felt authentic, nuanced, and thoughtfully written. It never felt exaggerated or simplified, just real. As someone who appreciates seeing characters with genuine challenges, I loved how Emberly Ash handled her.
Both Fionna and Helio are carrying the weight of traumatic childhoods, and they come from opposite sides of a conflict that has shaped their entire lives. Watching them slowly find common ground despite everything stacked against them was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their interactions felt natural, layered, and emotionally honest.
The pacing was also spot on. There was plenty of action to keep the story moving, but the quieter moments were given room to breathe. Those slower scenes allowed the characters to develop and deepen in ways that made the bigger moments hit even harder.
This was a fantastic start to what promises to be an amazing series. I loved the world, I loved the characters, and I am already impatiently waiting for the next book. If you're looking for fantasy filled with rebellion, changelings, and complicated characters, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book. I had a little bit of trouble getting into it at the beginning, and I think that's because each chapter started with a quote from a different person from the imaginary land of Irska. It was a little disorienting.
Fiona and Helio are the main characters of the book, sort of star-crossed lovers, if you will. Fiona is a companion and servant of the princess, while Helio is a rebel leader. He kidnaps Fiona, thinking that she’s the princess, only to find out that she is not. There's a strong pull between them, but they both fight it. Helio despises the humans, and yet, he cannot shake the feelings that he’s developing for Fiona, despite her being one. From the beginning, it's clear there's something different about Fiona. Her parents died when she was a child, and there seems to be something about her background that the reader suspects, but she does not. Helio promises Fiona that he will not allow anyone to harm her (since he’s not the only one who despises humans), and he does all that he can to ensure that she is not killed.
There's an unspoken understanding between the two of them that, despite the evident feelings they have for one another, there can never be anything more between them because she is a human and he is one of the rebel leaders. Both have to fight against the desires of their hearts to do what is good for others.
Just when you think they might be able to overcome their differences and find a way to be together, Fiona makes a decision that will help the rebels but will force more distance between them. It’ll only be temporary, but it’s impossible to know how long. I found the way it was worded was a bit confusing, but I’m pretty sure I understood what happened.
This book was so, so good, and I cannot wait for the sequel!
Fiona and Helio are the main characters of the book, sort of star-crossed lovers, if you will. Fiona is a companion and servant of the princess, while Helio is a rebel leader. He kidnaps Fiona, thinking that she’s the princess, only to find out that she is not. There's a strong pull between them, but they both fight it. Helio despises the humans, and yet, he cannot shake the feelings that he’s developing for Fiona, despite her being one. From the beginning, it's clear there's something different about Fiona. Her parents died when she was a child, and there seems to be something about her background that the reader suspects, but she does not. Helio promises Fiona that he will not allow anyone to harm her (since he’s not the only one who despises humans), and he does all that he can to ensure that she is not killed.
There's an unspoken understanding between the two of them that, despite the evident feelings they have for one another, there can never be anything more between them because she is a human and he is one of the rebel leaders. Both have to fight against the desires of their hearts to do what is good for others.
Just when you think they might be able to overcome their differences and find a way to be together, Fiona makes a decision that will help the rebels but will force more distance between them. It’ll only be temporary, but it’s impossible to know how long. I found the way it was worded was a bit confusing, but I’m pretty sure I understood what happened.
This book was so, so good, and I cannot wait for the sequel!
June 1, 2026
My girl has gone trad! 🎉
⛓️💥This is Emberly Ash's first traditionally published novel, it's an Amazon First Reads pick, and I am absolutely thrilled that she's basically already written book two because I am going to need that ending as soon as possible.
⛓️💥Fionna was such a wonderful heroine. She's the embodiment of "bloom where you're planted,” someone who has been thrust into difficult circumstances both before the story begins and throughout the events of the book, yet continually chooses to make the best of them. She's sharp-minded, quick-witted, compassionate, and resilient. One of the things I love most about Emberly's female protagonists is that they take up space unapologetically, and Fionna is no exception. Her personal mantra, "Calm as a lake. Strong as a tree. I bend but don't break," perfectly captures who she is.
⛓️💥Then there's Helio. Intense. Guarded. Ruthless. Observant to a fault. The man misses absolutely nothing. Yet beneath all that steel is someone surprisingly thoughtful, and watching those layers peel back was one of my favorite parts of the story. Fionna and Helio complement each other beautifully, and I loved every scene they shared.
⛓️💥This story packs so much into under 300 pages: sibling dynamics, found family, rebellion chaos, firebird legends, suppressed magic, castle shenanigans, betrayals, and a richly imagined new world based on a historical era close to my heart. If you've been hesitant to start a new fantasy series because of intimidating page counts, this is the perfect place to jump in.
🖤A Single Captive Spark releases July 1, 2026, but you can request it on NetGalley or grab it through Amazon First Reads if you have access and don't want to wait.
🙏Thank you, Emberly, for the incredible story and the beautiful physical ARC. I can't wait to return to Irska and see what happens next.
⛓️💥This is Emberly Ash's first traditionally published novel, it's an Amazon First Reads pick, and I am absolutely thrilled that she's basically already written book two because I am going to need that ending as soon as possible.
⛓️💥Fionna was such a wonderful heroine. She's the embodiment of "bloom where you're planted,” someone who has been thrust into difficult circumstances both before the story begins and throughout the events of the book, yet continually chooses to make the best of them. She's sharp-minded, quick-witted, compassionate, and resilient. One of the things I love most about Emberly's female protagonists is that they take up space unapologetically, and Fionna is no exception. Her personal mantra, "Calm as a lake. Strong as a tree. I bend but don't break," perfectly captures who she is.
⛓️💥Then there's Helio. Intense. Guarded. Ruthless. Observant to a fault. The man misses absolutely nothing. Yet beneath all that steel is someone surprisingly thoughtful, and watching those layers peel back was one of my favorite parts of the story. Fionna and Helio complement each other beautifully, and I loved every scene they shared.
⛓️💥This story packs so much into under 300 pages: sibling dynamics, found family, rebellion chaos, firebird legends, suppressed magic, castle shenanigans, betrayals, and a richly imagined new world based on a historical era close to my heart. If you've been hesitant to start a new fantasy series because of intimidating page counts, this is the perfect place to jump in.
🖤A Single Captive Spark releases July 1, 2026, but you can request it on NetGalley or grab it through Amazon First Reads if you have access and don't want to wait.
🙏Thank you, Emberly, for the incredible story and the beautiful physical ARC. I can't wait to return to Irska and see what happens next.
February 1, 2026
I loved being back in a world of Emberly’s creation. I will never get tired of her writing.
A Single Captive Spark is firmly planted in a society divided into two factions, humans and “changelings”. With the suppression of magic as a result of a violent conflict centuries ago, walls are built to divide (“protect”) races, and Irska lives under the reign of a human king set on supremacy and division. The rebellion has built since magic was leashed; over 300 years of hate and blame are coming to a head. This story was inspired by a historical event, but it feels all too relevant today.
Emberly is a master crafter of MCs. Women who look and feel like women, not carved away to fit societal ideals. Who are not perfect, sculpted, poised, pristine women who have it all together. They are real, they are struggling, they are relatable. They show a strength and fortitude, a humanity, a perseverance through hardships, abuse, and oppression, and still have it within them to find a way to stand up for what is right, to hope, to be kind, to keep going, to love. Men who fight their own demons, battle the world’s injustices, search for their purpose, and value these women exactly as they are, not seeing them as subordinates to be ruled, directed, fixed, or perfected.
All of that shows up in this story. There is plenty of action in the book, I just wish we’d had more of it between Fionna and Helio. It’s definitely a slow burn build with very well done momentary flashes of spice. As for plot, we’re rich!
I look forward to learning more about Fionna’s path (especially in the aftermath of that cliffhanger) in book two!
**As always, I’m grateful to Emberly, 47North, and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given freely.**
A Single Captive Spark is firmly planted in a society divided into two factions, humans and “changelings”. With the suppression of magic as a result of a violent conflict centuries ago, walls are built to divide (“protect”) races, and Irska lives under the reign of a human king set on supremacy and division. The rebellion has built since magic was leashed; over 300 years of hate and blame are coming to a head. This story was inspired by a historical event, but it feels all too relevant today.
Emberly is a master crafter of MCs. Women who look and feel like women, not carved away to fit societal ideals. Who are not perfect, sculpted, poised, pristine women who have it all together. They are real, they are struggling, they are relatable. They show a strength and fortitude, a humanity, a perseverance through hardships, abuse, and oppression, and still have it within them to find a way to stand up for what is right, to hope, to be kind, to keep going, to love. Men who fight their own demons, battle the world’s injustices, search for their purpose, and value these women exactly as they are, not seeing them as subordinates to be ruled, directed, fixed, or perfected.
All of that shows up in this story. There is plenty of action in the book, I just wish we’d had more of it between Fionna and Helio. It’s definitely a slow burn build with very well done momentary flashes of spice. As for plot, we’re rich!
I look forward to learning more about Fionna’s path (especially in the aftermath of that cliffhanger) in book two!
**As always, I’m grateful to Emberly, 47North, and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given freely.**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Single Captive Spark is the first book in the Rise of the Firebird series. This is a dark romantasy about the aftermath of a war that might not really be over. I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Thank you to the author and 47North for my eArc.
What to Expect:
✨Divided society/Oppressed people
✨Enemies to… ???
✨Betrayals
✨Secret magic
✨Captor x captive
✨Forced proximity
✨Mental health rep (OCD/anxiety)
✨Slow, slow burn
✨Yearning
✨Kidnapping gone wrong
✨Unique magic system
✨Dual, first person POV
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
The Lovely: I absolutely loved these main characters and how they came together. Nothing will top that “oh crap” moment. FMC Fionna is mistakenly kidnapped by the rebels but she might be useful to their cause. I liked that she had her own personal motivations to surviving and escaping. Her banter with the FMC cracked me up at times. The MMC is broody and a bit scary, but extremely loyal and wants what’s best for his people. Kinda giving martyr vibes.
Recommendation: When I saw we were getting a news series from this author I might have squealed. This start of the duology doesn’t disappoint. There were so many conflicting motivations - loyalty, love, family (found and otherwise) - I found myself caught up in the story. The second book of the duology is expected to be released at the end of 2026. If you’re in the mood for a dark romantasy with a unique and engaging plot alongside well-rounded and motivated characters, I think you might love this book.
What to Expect:
✨Divided society/Oppressed people
✨Enemies to… ???
✨Betrayals
✨Secret magic
✨Captor x captive
✨Forced proximity
✨Mental health rep (OCD/anxiety)
✨Slow, slow burn
✨Yearning
✨Kidnapping gone wrong
✨Unique magic system
✨Dual, first person POV
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
The Lovely: I absolutely loved these main characters and how they came together. Nothing will top that “oh crap” moment. FMC Fionna is mistakenly kidnapped by the rebels but she might be useful to their cause. I liked that she had her own personal motivations to surviving and escaping. Her banter with the FMC cracked me up at times. The MMC is broody and a bit scary, but extremely loyal and wants what’s best for his people. Kinda giving martyr vibes.
Recommendation: When I saw we were getting a news series from this author I might have squealed. This start of the duology doesn’t disappoint. There were so many conflicting motivations - loyalty, love, family (found and otherwise) - I found myself caught up in the story. The second book of the duology is expected to be released at the end of 2026. If you’re in the mood for a dark romantasy with a unique and engaging plot alongside well-rounded and motivated characters, I think you might love this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In a world where humans and changelings are divided, Emberly takes us on a twisted path of revelation and betrayal.
We follow along with Fionna who is a servant to the princess that struggles with severe anxiety while doing anything she can to get her sister away from the castle. But one fateful day changes everything when she is kidnapped by the rebels.
Helio doesn’t realize what he is in for when he kidnaps Fionna thinking he has the Irskan princess. She does not back down from his cruelty and he is drawn to her fire. She learns very quickly that everything she has been told is a lie and magic is still alive.
Our boy Helio falls hard for Fionna even when he shouldn’t with this forbidden love since she is a human but she is also drawn to his heated gaze. I loved how he immediately is willing to hurt anyone that tries to lay and hand on her and secretly hoping he claims his promise to her in the second book.
After the twisted ending and the truths that are revealed, the game is just beginning and Fionna is ready to play
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
We follow along with Fionna who is a servant to the princess that struggles with severe anxiety while doing anything she can to get her sister away from the castle. But one fateful day changes everything when she is kidnapped by the rebels.
Helio doesn’t realize what he is in for when he kidnaps Fionna thinking he has the Irskan princess. She does not back down from his cruelty and he is drawn to her fire. She learns very quickly that everything she has been told is a lie and magic is still alive.
Our boy Helio falls hard for Fionna even when he shouldn’t with this forbidden love since she is a human but she is also drawn to his heated gaze. I loved how he immediately is willing to hurt anyone that tries to lay and hand on her and secretly hoping he claims his promise to her in the second book.
After the twisted ending and the truths that are revealed, the game is just beginning and Fionna is ready to play
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
May 26, 2026
As a massive Emberly Ash fan, I admittedly went into this one with unreasonably high expectations. And unfortunately, my expectations did not live up to reality.
There’s really good bones in this book, but it doesn’t feel fully fleshed out. We needed something more, especially in terms of the romance. Why does he want to protect her so badly? Why is she just going along with everything? Where are the stakes?
Also, the mmc is apparently a shifter, but there’s no like actual explanation for that and it’s just casually mentioned and you’re just supposed to accept it and go along with it.
I wanted to love this book just like I love her others, but this one fell so flat for me.
Thank you so much to Emberly Ash, 47North, and NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There’s really good bones in this book, but it doesn’t feel fully fleshed out. We needed something more, especially in terms of the romance. Why does he want to protect her so badly? Why is she just going along with everything? Where are the stakes?
Also, the mmc is apparently a shifter, but there’s no like actual explanation for that and it’s just casually mentioned and you’re just supposed to accept it and go along with it.
I wanted to love this book just like I love her others, but this one fell so flat for me.
Thank you so much to Emberly Ash, 47North, and NetGalley for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Emberly Ash and 47north for this copy.
A Single Captive Spark is the inaugural book in Emberly Ash's new series.
Fionna, a human servant to the princess, finds her life irrevocably altered when she is mistakenly abducted by changelings who believed her to be the royal princess.
Emberly has crafted an entirely new world that proved captivating from its inception. There were instances where certain elements became a bit perplexing and lacked clarity. Nevertheless, it was a commendable read, and I am eager to discover what unfolds after a compelling cliffhanger.
A Single Captive Spark is the inaugural book in Emberly Ash's new series.
Fionna, a human servant to the princess, finds her life irrevocably altered when she is mistakenly abducted by changelings who believed her to be the royal princess.
Emberly has crafted an entirely new world that proved captivating from its inception. There were instances where certain elements became a bit perplexing and lacked clarity. Nevertheless, it was a commendable read, and I am eager to discover what unfolds after a compelling cliffhanger.
June 4, 2026
A Single Captive Spark had a solid balance of world-building—enough to make the setting feel immersive without becoming overwhelming. I loved the dual POV and enjoyed getting both perspectives throughout the story.
The romance, however, felt a little rushed for me. This was very much insta-love/lust, and I found myself wanting more development and emotional buildup between the characters. The first kiss especially caught me off guard; it felt so out of place that I actually went back and reread the page to make sure I hadn’t missed something.
Overall, an enjoyable fantasy with an intriguing world, but I wished the romance had been given a little more room to grow.
The romance, however, felt a little rushed for me. This was very much insta-love/lust, and I found myself wanting more development and emotional buildup between the characters. The first kiss especially caught me off guard; it felt so out of place that I actually went back and reread the page to make sure I hadn’t missed something.
Overall, an enjoyable fantasy with an intriguing world, but I wished the romance had been given a little more room to grow.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can truly say this book shocked, surprised, and impressed me in the best ways. Towards the end, the beauty of some of the passages brought me to tears. The “historical” excerpts that each chapter begins with were such amazing little windows into this richly crafted, subtly magical world. The steam is slow…and it will make you bite your knuckle and mutter bad words under your breath.
The third act, the climax, that last page twist… *chef’s kiss.*
Now to go and beg the author for the second, final book asap… (Good thing she likes me.)
The third act, the climax, that last page twist… *chef’s kiss.*
Now to go and beg the author for the second, final book asap… (Good thing she likes me.)
February 5, 2026
3.5 stars. This was different from what Emberly usually writes and that was really fun to see. This book felt like a lot of world building and ended on a major cliff hanger. I love that Emberly writes her FMC’s as thick, strong headed women. Plus size representation is so necessary and I love seeing. I felt the love interest was quick and I would have like more of a slow burn. I’m interested to see where this series goes.
June 4, 2026
SO. FECKING. GOOD.
I inhaled this in less than 24 hours. If you love romantasy and character development, do yourself a favour and read this book. You will thank me for it. The only negative I have to is that I have to wait for book two. I need it immediately. So well written and well paced. I didn’t see the betrayal coming which almost never happens for me!! Read the book. You won’t regret it.
I inhaled this in less than 24 hours. If you love romantasy and character development, do yourself a favour and read this book. You will thank me for it. The only negative I have to is that I have to wait for book two. I need it immediately. So well written and well paced. I didn’t see the betrayal coming which almost never happens for me!! Read the book. You won’t regret it.
June 5, 2026
this book is a mess
I kept expecting it to get better and the story was decent, just poorly told. Spoiler alert! It ends in either a cliffhanger or an ending I’m too dumb to understand. No mention of a forthcoming second book, so I guess I’m dumb.i shouldn’t have finished the book because now I’m both dumb and mad that I wasted my day.
I kept expecting it to get better and the story was decent, just poorly told. Spoiler alert! It ends in either a cliffhanger or an ending I’m too dumb to understand. No mention of a forthcoming second book, so I guess I’m dumb.i shouldn’t have finished the book because now I’m both dumb and mad that I wasted my day.
Did Not Finish
June 2, 2026Closed and DNF at chapter six. The entire lead up to the kidnapping was so foolish I couldn’t keep going.
Review of advance copy
June 5, 2026DNF'd at 39%
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to NetGalley, Emberly Ash, and 47North for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was the romantasy I didn’t know I needed. Emberly Ash knows how to captivate from the very beginning. We don’t get a lot of background but I didn’t feel it was needed. The enemies to lovers lasted a good long while but I was here for it and the yearning. Fionna really grows into herself which was incredible to see. And the way Helio would do anything for her. I kind of clocked the traitor from the beginning but it was still a shock because I was hoping it wasn’t true. I can understand their side but it still annoyed me. I cannot wait to see how book 2 starts off. I have an inkling of what Fionna might be up to.
This was the romantasy I didn’t know I needed. Emberly Ash knows how to captivate from the very beginning. We don’t get a lot of background but I didn’t feel it was needed. The enemies to lovers lasted a good long while but I was here for it and the yearning. Fionna really grows into herself which was incredible to see. And the way Helio would do anything for her. I kind of clocked the traitor from the beginning but it was still a shock because I was hoping it wasn’t true. I can understand their side but it still annoyed me. I cannot wait to see how book 2 starts off. I have an inkling of what Fionna might be up to.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨A Single Captive Spark✨
Thank you, Emberly, 47 North, and Netgalley for this gifted arc and what a hooray for Em getting trad published!
This fast paced Romantasy lands us in the middle of a civil war, facing an oppressed race called the Changelings, and plummeting into a captor x captive romance. We follow a dual POV from our MCs, Fionna and Helio, born enemies who find common purpose and relatability where they’d always been misunderstood. Initially, Fionna’s only goal is the save her sister and escape Irska, but her eyes are soon opened as she is dragged across enemy lines. It’s a story of finding hope and being seen despite the odds being against you on every side.
The story moves quickly, but the burn is slow. I would’ve loved more intimate moments between our MCs to better strengthen the connection that is alluded but I adored Helio, his fierce angst, AND I’m a sucker for mismatched eyes. The ending was a bang and left me aching for the answer to the question it left us with. I am intrigued to see what Emberly brings us with book two in the duet.
Tropes you may find in ASCS are forced proximity, captive x captor, OCD/anxiety rep, “love”, hidden identities, light world building, magic, oppressed people/civil war, slow burn to low-ish spice, betrayals, yearning, and a cliffy.
Thank you, Emberly, 47 North, and Netgalley for this gifted arc and what a hooray for Em getting trad published!
This fast paced Romantasy lands us in the middle of a civil war, facing an oppressed race called the Changelings, and plummeting into a captor x captive romance. We follow a dual POV from our MCs, Fionna and Helio, born enemies who find common purpose and relatability where they’d always been misunderstood. Initially, Fionna’s only goal is the save her sister and escape Irska, but her eyes are soon opened as she is dragged across enemy lines. It’s a story of finding hope and being seen despite the odds being against you on every side.
The story moves quickly, but the burn is slow. I would’ve loved more intimate moments between our MCs to better strengthen the connection that is alluded but I adored Helio, his fierce angst, AND I’m a sucker for mismatched eyes. The ending was a bang and left me aching for the answer to the question it left us with. I am intrigued to see what Emberly brings us with book two in the duet.
Tropes you may find in ASCS are forced proximity, captive x captor, OCD/anxiety rep, “love”, hidden identities, light world building, magic, oppressed people/civil war, slow burn to low-ish spice, betrayals, yearning, and a cliffy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A powerful, emotionally rich read that completely pulled me in from the very first page. The intensity, the atmosphere, and the slow-burning connection between the characters make this story impossible to put down.
The emotions are beautifully layered, with longing, tension, and vulnerability woven into every interaction. The character dynamics feel raw and real, and I found myself deeply invested in their journey and choices. Every moment feels purposeful, building toward a connection that’s both gripping and deeply satisfying.
Emberly Ash’s writing is immersive and evocative, creating a world that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading. This is a stunning story with heart, depth, and unforgettable emotional impact. If you love romance that burns slow and hits hard, A Single Captive Spark is an absolute must-read.
The emotions are beautifully layered, with longing, tension, and vulnerability woven into every interaction. The character dynamics feel raw and real, and I found myself deeply invested in their journey and choices. Every moment feels purposeful, building toward a connection that’s both gripping and deeply satisfying.
Emberly Ash’s writing is immersive and evocative, creating a world that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading. This is a stunning story with heart, depth, and unforgettable emotional impact. If you love romance that burns slow and hits hard, A Single Captive Spark is an absolute must-read.
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