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Ring of Fire
Book one in an utterly addictive enemies-to-lovers romantasy that will keep you hooked forever.
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Hunger Games meets Escape from Alcatraz meets West Side Story.
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A war zone in prison
A secret identity
A forbidden love
She never should have lied. Now she’s Scarlen Smithson, petty thief in the notorious Horstal Island prison where Bear Vyer, enemy to the king, is an inmate. Luckily, he doesn’t know she is the princess, but that doesn’t stop him claiming her for his own.
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Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Hidden identity
Forced proximity
Shapeshifters
Fated mates
Found family
Spice
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Ring of Fire is book one in the Ring of Fire series, a fated-mates romantasy that takes place in more than one world and contains adult themes.
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--------------------------------------------------
Hunger Games meets Escape from Alcatraz meets West Side Story.
--------------------------------------------------
A war zone in prison
A secret identity
A forbidden love
She never should have lied. Now she’s Scarlen Smithson, petty thief in the notorious Horstal Island prison where Bear Vyer, enemy to the king, is an inmate. Luckily, he doesn’t know she is the princess, but that doesn’t stop him claiming her for his own.
--------------------------------------------------
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Hidden identity
Forced proximity
Shapeshifters
Fated mates
Found family
Spice
--------------------------------------------------
Ring of Fire is book one in the Ring of Fire series, a fated-mates romantasy that takes place in more than one world and contains adult themes.
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305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 14, 2026
About the author
Kate Dady
2 books5 followersKate Dady writes romantasy filled with hope, heart, and connection, where families are made, friendships are strong, and love is always found.
She also writes small-town romance stories as K.T. Dady.
She also writes small-town romance stories as K.T. Dady.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 17, 2026
This is a gritty story of survival, hidden identities, forced proximity and conflict. Scarlen is sent to Horstal prison, and must survive the twisted games and harsh conditions, and keep her identity as the King's daughter hidden, especially from the enemy rebels. Unfortunately their leader Bear takes an interest in her from day 1, and now she's working with the enemy and learning everything she's been told is a lie.
Scarlen develops an unexpected bond with Bear, and is accepted into their found family group where they help protect her and plan to escape the prison.
It's a harsh world of punishments and secrets, with political tension, different factions and shifters, and is full of high stakes and tension.
It's a fast paced story that explores myths, prophecy, betrayals, and manipulation, and the ending was definitely a surprise!
Excited to see how the series develops.
Scarlen develops an unexpected bond with Bear, and is accepted into their found family group where they help protect her and plan to escape the prison.
It's a harsh world of punishments and secrets, with political tension, different factions and shifters, and is full of high stakes and tension.
It's a fast paced story that explores myths, prophecy, betrayals, and manipulation, and the ending was definitely a surprise!
Excited to see how the series develops.
April 6, 2026
Um the ending. That is all I gotta to say. This book and so many twist and turns I couldn’t put it down. Like when will the next book come out.
April 26, 2026
Ring of Fire is a fantastic first installment in this new romantasy series. There are engaging characters with nice development. The pacing is great. And that ending?!?! What?! That was brilliant!
Enemies to lovers and forced proximity are some of my favorite tropes. Add to that some found family and I'm sold. Definitely itching to reading the second book!
💜 Thank you so much to Kate Dady and Love Books Tours for the gifted digital copy to read and review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Enemies to lovers and forced proximity are some of my favorite tropes. Add to that some found family and I'm sold. Definitely itching to reading the second book!
💜 Thank you so much to Kate Dady and Love Books Tours for the gifted digital copy to read and review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
April 23, 2026
I haven’t read this genre before so I wasn’t sure what to expect but my apprehension soon disappeared! This book was a gripping, high-stakes fantasy that blends brutal survival with slow-burning romance in a way that’s hard to put down. The pitch—Hunger Games meets Escape from Alcatraz with a touch of West Side Story—is honestly pretty spot on, but the story still manages to carve out its own identity. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
The prison setting on Horstal Island is one of the book’s strongest elements. It feels dangerous, claustrophobic, and unpredictable, creating constant tension. The “war zone in a prison” concept really delivers, with shifting alliances, power struggles, and a strong sense that no one is ever truly safe. The found family aspect adds a welcome emotional layer, balancing out the brutality.
Scarlen is an engaging protagonist, and her hidden identity adds a compelling edge to every interaction. Watching her navigate life as a supposed petty thief while hiding her true status keeps the stakes high. Bear Vyer is equally intriguing—intense, morally grey, and more complex than he first appears. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is a highlight, with plenty of friction, reluctant attraction, and emotional payoff. The forced proximity trope works especially well here, amplifying both the tension and the chemistry.
The inclusion of shapeshifters and fated mates adds an interesting fantasy twist, though at times these elements feel slightly underexplored compared to the central prison plot. The romance has some spice, but it never fully overshadows the story’s darker, survival-focused tone.
I felt that some details could have used a bit more depth, particularly around the political landscape and the rules of the shapeshifter lore. Some developments feel a little rushed, especially toward the end. But that might come with the rest of the series.
Overall, Ring of Fire is an addictive read with strong tropes, compelling characters, and a tense, immersive setting. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely worth picking up if you enjoy gritty fantasy romance with high stakes and emotional intensity.
The prison setting on Horstal Island is one of the book’s strongest elements. It feels dangerous, claustrophobic, and unpredictable, creating constant tension. The “war zone in a prison” concept really delivers, with shifting alliances, power struggles, and a strong sense that no one is ever truly safe. The found family aspect adds a welcome emotional layer, balancing out the brutality.
Scarlen is an engaging protagonist, and her hidden identity adds a compelling edge to every interaction. Watching her navigate life as a supposed petty thief while hiding her true status keeps the stakes high. Bear Vyer is equally intriguing—intense, morally grey, and more complex than he first appears. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is a highlight, with plenty of friction, reluctant attraction, and emotional payoff. The forced proximity trope works especially well here, amplifying both the tension and the chemistry.
The inclusion of shapeshifters and fated mates adds an interesting fantasy twist, though at times these elements feel slightly underexplored compared to the central prison plot. The romance has some spice, but it never fully overshadows the story’s darker, survival-focused tone.
I felt that some details could have used a bit more depth, particularly around the political landscape and the rules of the shapeshifter lore. Some developments feel a little rushed, especially toward the end. But that might come with the rest of the series.
Overall, Ring of Fire is an addictive read with strong tropes, compelling characters, and a tense, immersive setting. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely worth picking up if you enjoy gritty fantasy romance with high stakes and emotional intensity.
Review of advance copy
This is an AMAZING book! I absolutely devoured it in less than 24 hours! Ring of Fire is the first in a new romantasy series that will instantly draw you in and leave you wanting more!
The story centers on a strong FMC named Scarlen Smithson who gets sent to the infamous Horstal Prison for petty thievery, but she is secretly the princess of the notorious king. She’s instantly drawn to Bear Byer who is an inmate and is an enemy to the king. He goes on to claim her, but he doesn’t know who she is.
Much of the story takes place in the dark and gritty Horstal Prison and Dady creates a grim setting that has glimmers of hope that are evoked through the strong and well-developed characters. Ring of Fire is very much character driven and both the male and female leads are strong individuals in their own way. Scarlen is fiery with a strong moral compass and Bear is immensely loyal to those he cares about and has a deep sense of justice and together they’re unstoppable. The other characters stand out as well, especially Bear’s family and friends. They instantly embrace Scarlen as one of their own, which evokes a sense of found family for her. Additionally, there are competing gangs in the prison which are reminiscent of West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet which provide a turbulent backdrop that echoes the political tension unfolding on the continent. The politics and worldbuilding are well done and leaves the reader wanting to know more. The lore and myths that are woven throughout the story are really intriguing and I’m excited to learn more from book two!
The story centers on a strong FMC named Scarlen Smithson who gets sent to the infamous Horstal Prison for petty thievery, but she is secretly the princess of the notorious king. She’s instantly drawn to Bear Byer who is an inmate and is an enemy to the king. He goes on to claim her, but he doesn’t know who she is.
Much of the story takes place in the dark and gritty Horstal Prison and Dady creates a grim setting that has glimmers of hope that are evoked through the strong and well-developed characters. Ring of Fire is very much character driven and both the male and female leads are strong individuals in their own way. Scarlen is fiery with a strong moral compass and Bear is immensely loyal to those he cares about and has a deep sense of justice and together they’re unstoppable. The other characters stand out as well, especially Bear’s family and friends. They instantly embrace Scarlen as one of their own, which evokes a sense of found family for her. Additionally, there are competing gangs in the prison which are reminiscent of West Side Story and Romeo and Juliet which provide a turbulent backdrop that echoes the political tension unfolding on the continent. The politics and worldbuilding are well done and leaves the reader wanting to know more. The lore and myths that are woven throughout the story are really intriguing and I’m excited to learn more from book two!
April 19, 2026
Um, what just happened, what kind of way is that to end a story?! Please tell me book 2 is almost here!! What a start to a new series!
I've read this author before, in her romance stories under a variation of her name, and I really enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to what she would do in the romantasy world, and boy, I was not disappointed!
We follow Scarlen as she is thrust into the world of the Horstal jail, where she meets people that her sheltered life as a princess could never have imagined. Relationships are forged and broken, and alliances that shouldn't work, become key to them surviving. It is full of action, mystery and intrigue.
Scarlen is quickly claimed by Bear, one of the rebels who hate her family, but he has no idea who she is. This leads to a wonderful relationship building between them, but also a whole lot of hurt at the secrets between them. I really liked Bear, you could tell he had a huge weight on his shoulders, but he was so determined to protect those he loved.
This is a magical world, with shapeshifters, witches, and other mystical beings, we learn a lot about them, but don't see masses of their abilities, I think this will become much more apparent in future stories of this series.
The story progresses at a rapid pace, I read this in several sessions over the course of a day, because I just didn’t want to put it down!
I cannot wait to read more in this series, what an exciting start to it!
I've read this author before, in her romance stories under a variation of her name, and I really enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to what she would do in the romantasy world, and boy, I was not disappointed!
We follow Scarlen as she is thrust into the world of the Horstal jail, where she meets people that her sheltered life as a princess could never have imagined. Relationships are forged and broken, and alliances that shouldn't work, become key to them surviving. It is full of action, mystery and intrigue.
Scarlen is quickly claimed by Bear, one of the rebels who hate her family, but he has no idea who she is. This leads to a wonderful relationship building between them, but also a whole lot of hurt at the secrets between them. I really liked Bear, you could tell he had a huge weight on his shoulders, but he was so determined to protect those he loved.
This is a magical world, with shapeshifters, witches, and other mystical beings, we learn a lot about them, but don't see masses of their abilities, I think this will become much more apparent in future stories of this series.
The story progresses at a rapid pace, I read this in several sessions over the course of a day, because I just didn’t want to put it down!
I cannot wait to read more in this series, what an exciting start to it!
April 15, 2026
Ring of Fire by Kate Dady was one of those books I genuinely didn’t want to put down. From the very first pages, it pulled me into a world that felt completely fresh, a romantasy with serious escape-from-Alcatraz vibes. It’s intense, immersive, and honestly unlike anything I’ve read before.
You’ve got shape shifters, mysterious knights, and evil kings, but what really stood out was how all these elements blended into something that felt unique rather than familiar. The pacing was good across most of the book, and I was constantly needing to know what would happen next.
But let’s talk about THAT ending…
What was it?! What does it mean?! And why am I being forced to wait two whole months for answers?! 😩 This is the definition of a cliffhanger, the kind that leaves your jaw on the floor and your brain spinning with theories. I know I’m not alone in this based on the tour crewbie chat for those of us doing the reviews 🙂
If you love romantasy with high stakes, twists, and something a little different, this is absolutely worth picking up. Just be prepared to be joining the queue of us waiting for Book 2.
You’ve got shape shifters, mysterious knights, and evil kings, but what really stood out was how all these elements blended into something that felt unique rather than familiar. The pacing was good across most of the book, and I was constantly needing to know what would happen next.
But let’s talk about THAT ending…
What was it?! What does it mean?! And why am I being forced to wait two whole months for answers?! 😩 This is the definition of a cliffhanger, the kind that leaves your jaw on the floor and your brain spinning with theories. I know I’m not alone in this based on the tour crewbie chat for those of us doing the reviews 🙂
If you love romantasy with high stakes, twists, and something a little different, this is absolutely worth picking up. Just be prepared to be joining the queue of us waiting for Book 2.
April 19, 2026
Thank you LBT for having me on this review tour and for my gifted copy of this epub!!!
Holy cow. What a read this was. I’m not sure how to get my words and where to start with this book. I’m still processing and I need more by this author like asap !!
Ok so here we go. This was the truly the type of book that sucks you in. It’s such a different read than anything I’ve read. It’s like romantasy and intense and just so dang good.
We have shape shifting mysterious knights evil kings like I mean it all blended so well together and it just worked its seriously unlike anything I’ve read and I really feel like I’m not doing this book justice here cause I truly felt like I was in this book!!!
The world building holy cow !!! Something about prison and fantasy seems to go so well together and I’m here for it. All of it.
Umm but I have to say what the heck was that ending ?! Like really I’m still trying to process that and just am reeling and keep going what why and why do I have to wait so long for the next book like how unfair !!!
Overall if you like a book that’s really different and good and just holy cow. Just be prepared to be waiting with us all for the next book!!!
Holy cow. What a read this was. I’m not sure how to get my words and where to start with this book. I’m still processing and I need more by this author like asap !!
Ok so here we go. This was the truly the type of book that sucks you in. It’s such a different read than anything I’ve read. It’s like romantasy and intense and just so dang good.
We have shape shifting mysterious knights evil kings like I mean it all blended so well together and it just worked its seriously unlike anything I’ve read and I really feel like I’m not doing this book justice here cause I truly felt like I was in this book!!!
The world building holy cow !!! Something about prison and fantasy seems to go so well together and I’m here for it. All of it.
Umm but I have to say what the heck was that ending ?! Like really I’m still trying to process that and just am reeling and keep going what why and why do I have to wait so long for the next book like how unfair !!!
Overall if you like a book that’s really different and good and just holy cow. Just be prepared to be waiting with us all for the next book!!!
April 22, 2026
‘Ring of Fire’ is gritty and action packed from the get go and the story starts immediately, It feels like you’re trying to guess what’s going to happen as soon as you start and you’re just taken on this bizarre astonishing journey.
Scarlen is definitely one of my favourite female main characters I’ve read about this year, Scarlen is her hidden identity and I admire how much we learn about her backstory and why her identity is hidden. Scarlen is a strong willed powerful lady, she is a fighter, she is empowering and she has so much love for those around her and cares especially for Bear. Bear grew on me a lot, I love how protective he is over Scarlen, it’s also delightful to see Scarlen have 2 amazing girl mates who stand by her side no matter what. The bond Scarlen and her friends found is beautiful and they make a fantastic team together.
As a whole ‘Ring of Fire’ is definitely up there with my top reads this year even if book two isn’t out yet and I’m beyond excited for book two because that ending was something else, it was definitely extraordinary. If you’re a lover of Romantasy, spice and you touch and you die kind of reads, then sprint don’t run to add this to your TBR.
Scarlen is definitely one of my favourite female main characters I’ve read about this year, Scarlen is her hidden identity and I admire how much we learn about her backstory and why her identity is hidden. Scarlen is a strong willed powerful lady, she is a fighter, she is empowering and she has so much love for those around her and cares especially for Bear. Bear grew on me a lot, I love how protective he is over Scarlen, it’s also delightful to see Scarlen have 2 amazing girl mates who stand by her side no matter what. The bond Scarlen and her friends found is beautiful and they make a fantastic team together.
As a whole ‘Ring of Fire’ is definitely up there with my top reads this year even if book two isn’t out yet and I’m beyond excited for book two because that ending was something else, it was definitely extraordinary. If you’re a lover of Romantasy, spice and you touch and you die kind of reads, then sprint don’t run to add this to your TBR.
April 24, 2026
There should be a law that fantasy books that are so good must have all installments of the series out at the same time so when you get to the ending and go WTF you can quickly jump into book 2!
As always a very much no spoiler review – but I think everyone who reads this will just go – WHAT? At that ending!
It’s a great new fantasy novel. The pace is brilliant. The fated mates part I didn’t mind at all – as it was subtle and I loved how the two characters came together. Yes it was spicy but compared to others – the spice level was a medium and it didn’t feel like it’d been popped in just to make the story a bit more interesting.
I loved the plot line and the twists this book took. There was a couple of moments where I was a bit less enthusiastic about the FMC and MMC further into the book, but it can’t all be plain sailing.
And ug – if there’s this sort of heartache in book one I’m really worrying about my emotional stability in other books.
Fantastic first installment – please bring out book 2 soon! I need to know!
April 26, 2026
The first thing I need to say is, when will the next book be out? I absolutely loved this book! Scarsen’s story had me hooked from the very beginning. Sent to prison for stealing bread, Princess Andaria must keep her true identity secret if she wants to stay alive Almost immediately after she enters the corrupt Horstal prison she is claimed by Bear Tyr, leader of the rebels and sworn enemy of her father. The closer she grows to Bear, the more she learns about the true nature of her father.
I loved seeing the transition from pampered princess to strong, tough survivor of Scarsen. The slow burn love between she and Bear was fabulous. They fit perfectly together. The characters were very well developed as we got backstory as well. The story was fast paced and full of action as well as tender moments between the lovers . I felt I was right there among the action. I was completely floored by the ending. What a cliffhanger! I’m definitely a fan of this author now and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I loved seeing the transition from pampered princess to strong, tough survivor of Scarsen. The slow burn love between she and Bear was fabulous. They fit perfectly together. The characters were very well developed as we got backstory as well. The story was fast paced and full of action as well as tender moments between the lovers . I felt I was right there among the action. I was completely floored by the ending. What a cliffhanger! I’m definitely a fan of this author now and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
April 28, 2026
Princess Scarlen Smithson is in the notorious Horstal Island prison following a petty theft charge. Bear Vyer, enemy to the king, is also an inmate.
The pace of the novel including the world building is well done as well as the growth of the relationship between Scarlet and Bear. I also enjoyed reading their individual journey as well I thought their respective journeys were
There was a feeling of anticipation and build as the plot continues and the writing matches this feeling. Readers can sense the tension, the high stakes actions. We sense the pressures that the protagonists feel throughout the novel. We’re eager to see what happens next in their story.
I saw the parallels between the Hunger Games, West Side Story, and Escape from Alcatraz and thought they were woven well throughout the novel in building.
I thought the twists and the ending are great and leading into the next book of the series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
Thank you to Kate Dady and Love Books Tours for the gifted copy and the opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book for free and will be leaving an honest review.
The pace of the novel including the world building is well done as well as the growth of the relationship between Scarlet and Bear. I also enjoyed reading their individual journey as well I thought their respective journeys were
There was a feeling of anticipation and build as the plot continues and the writing matches this feeling. Readers can sense the tension, the high stakes actions. We sense the pressures that the protagonists feel throughout the novel. We’re eager to see what happens next in their story.
I saw the parallels between the Hunger Games, West Side Story, and Escape from Alcatraz and thought they were woven well throughout the novel in building.
I thought the twists and the ending are great and leading into the next book of the series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
Thank you to Kate Dady and Love Books Tours for the gifted copy and the opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book for free and will be leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Tense. Layered. Daddy issues.
‘Ring of Fire’ is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in and then—just when you think you’ve got your footing—turns up the emotional heat and drops you off a cliff.
Dady’s protagonist (Scarlen Smithsen) is easy to root for: flawed, stubborn, and often frustrating in a very human way. Her decisions don’t always scream “good idea,” but that’s part of the appeal. She’s a typical independent woman who has had enough of men dictating her life, which only creates additional problems. We are introduced to a lot of supporting characters, which I usually dislike, but Dady writes them in a way that adds texture. My favourite characters are actually these supporting members rather than the protagonists (though I wouldn’t mind ‘family time’ with a certain Bear Vyer).
Alongside the characters created, I feel Dady’s atmosphere is what works for this book as she leans into the “ring of fire” motif without overdoing it. There are moments of real emotional punch that land well because they’re earned, not forced. I also enjoyed how she slapped the smugness off my face when I thought I had predicted it perfectly. What a twist is all I will say!
That said, it’s not without its stumbles. Some pacing issues creep in—there are stretches where the narrative lingers a little too long, slightly dulling the tension it works hard to build. A few secondary characters feel more like sketches than fully realised people, which is a shame given how strong the central characterisation is and how important some of them are to the plot. I’m hoping we revisit some of the prisoners in later books.
Still, it’s an engaging read with enough grit and heart to keep you invested. A great fantasy world with a plot twist that is unique and definitely memorable—and just uncomfortable enough to stick with you after you’ve finished. I need book 2!
‘Ring of Fire’ is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in and then—just when you think you’ve got your footing—turns up the emotional heat and drops you off a cliff.
Dady’s protagonist (Scarlen Smithsen) is easy to root for: flawed, stubborn, and often frustrating in a very human way. Her decisions don’t always scream “good idea,” but that’s part of the appeal. She’s a typical independent woman who has had enough of men dictating her life, which only creates additional problems. We are introduced to a lot of supporting characters, which I usually dislike, but Dady writes them in a way that adds texture. My favourite characters are actually these supporting members rather than the protagonists (though I wouldn’t mind ‘family time’ with a certain Bear Vyer).
Alongside the characters created, I feel Dady’s atmosphere is what works for this book as she leans into the “ring of fire” motif without overdoing it. There are moments of real emotional punch that land well because they’re earned, not forced. I also enjoyed how she slapped the smugness off my face when I thought I had predicted it perfectly. What a twist is all I will say!
That said, it’s not without its stumbles. Some pacing issues creep in—there are stretches where the narrative lingers a little too long, slightly dulling the tension it works hard to build. A few secondary characters feel more like sketches than fully realised people, which is a shame given how strong the central characterisation is and how important some of them are to the plot. I’m hoping we revisit some of the prisoners in later books.
Still, it’s an engaging read with enough grit and heart to keep you invested. A great fantasy world with a plot twist that is unique and definitely memorable—and just uncomfortable enough to stick with you after you’ve finished. I need book 2!
April 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly, thank you to the author & LBT for allowing me to read and review Ring of Fire!
A plot where everything is actually plotting! Yes we get some spice, but it’s not the drive of the story. The drive of the story is the characters, following Scarlen who’s sent to Horstal Prison for theft. Upon her arrival, a fellow inmate (Bear) becomes attached to her and teaches her that things aren’t as they really seem. But Scarlen is hiding her own secret though, she’s the freaking Princess of the hated king!
Within the prison, Scarlen must survive the games, keep her identify safe & survive the bad environment within Horstal Prison.
It’s not a hard read to get through, the fantasy element shines through brilliantly & did I mention you’re left with a pretty hefty ending? Like scream for book two already hefty!
Would I recommend?
Yessssss! For my fellow fantasy lovers, you’ll pick this up and want to read it in one session, it’s that’s good!
Firstly, thank you to the author & LBT for allowing me to read and review Ring of Fire!
A plot where everything is actually plotting! Yes we get some spice, but it’s not the drive of the story. The drive of the story is the characters, following Scarlen who’s sent to Horstal Prison for theft. Upon her arrival, a fellow inmate (Bear) becomes attached to her and teaches her that things aren’t as they really seem. But Scarlen is hiding her own secret though, she’s the freaking Princess of the hated king!
Within the prison, Scarlen must survive the games, keep her identify safe & survive the bad environment within Horstal Prison.
It’s not a hard read to get through, the fantasy element shines through brilliantly & did I mention you’re left with a pretty hefty ending? Like scream for book two already hefty!
Would I recommend?
Yessssss! For my fellow fantasy lovers, you’ll pick this up and want to read it in one session, it’s that’s good!
April 20, 2026
I’m speechless. I’m still reeling from the ending and I find it hard to put my thoughts about the book into words.
I was hooked from the beginning. The story starts off strong and keeps on getting stronger and more interesting the further you get. The story is full of surprises and if you think even for moment that you know what’s going to happen next, you’d be wrong.
I loved Bear from the very start. He’s become one of my all time favorite book boyfriends and I’m pretty sure he’s going to stay that way for a very long time. He’s calm, caring and protective. What else could a girl ask for.
I also like the relationship between Bear and Scarlan. It was amazing to read about the slowly growing love and affection between them.
All in all, this was the best book I’ve read this year and I’m quite obsessively waiting for book two!
*ARC received from Love Books Tours. Review was written voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was hooked from the beginning. The story starts off strong and keeps on getting stronger and more interesting the further you get. The story is full of surprises and if you think even for moment that you know what’s going to happen next, you’d be wrong.
I loved Bear from the very start. He’s become one of my all time favorite book boyfriends and I’m pretty sure he’s going to stay that way for a very long time. He’s calm, caring and protective. What else could a girl ask for.
I also like the relationship between Bear and Scarlan. It was amazing to read about the slowly growing love and affection between them.
All in all, this was the best book I’ve read this year and I’m quite obsessively waiting for book two!
*ARC received from Love Books Tours. Review was written voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 27, 2026
High Stakes, Strong Characters, Great Tension
I didn’t expect to get pulled in as quickly as I did. The prison setting is tense and unpredictable, and it gives the whole story this constant edge of danger. Scarlen’s hidden identity adds a layer of stress to every interaction, and watching her try to survive while keeping her secret felt genuinely gripping.
Bear is one of those characters who grows on you fast. Rough around the edges but clearly carrying more weight than he lets on. Their dynamic has the right mix of tension, mistrust, and slow‑building connection. The found family element was one of my favorite parts, and it balances the harsher moments really well.
The ending caught me off guard. It’s a strong start to a series, and I’m already curious where the next book is going to take these characters.
I didn’t expect to get pulled in as quickly as I did. The prison setting is tense and unpredictable, and it gives the whole story this constant edge of danger. Scarlen’s hidden identity adds a layer of stress to every interaction, and watching her try to survive while keeping her secret felt genuinely gripping.
Bear is one of those characters who grows on you fast. Rough around the edges but clearly carrying more weight than he lets on. Their dynamic has the right mix of tension, mistrust, and slow‑building connection. The found family element was one of my favorite parts, and it balances the harsher moments really well.
The ending caught me off guard. It’s a strong start to a series, and I’m already curious where the next book is going to take these characters.
April 18, 2026
ARC Review:
The way I CONSUMED this book as if it would disappear is crazy. This book had me so hooked. I don’t think I took a single break whilst reading it. There are so many twists and turns to this story that there is really no predicting what’s gonna happen next. I mean that ending!?! Seriously, I am baffled and practically chomping at the bit for the next book!
I loved the relationship between Scarlen and Bear. Honestly, aside from the plot, that is what had me truly hooked on this book. I couldn’t get enough of them or their dynamic. And honestly I cannot wait to see what’s in store for them next.
Kate Dady truly did an amazing job with this one. And while I impatiently wait for the next installment of this series, I hope you will give this book a read!
The way I CONSUMED this book as if it would disappear is crazy. This book had me so hooked. I don’t think I took a single break whilst reading it. There are so many twists and turns to this story that there is really no predicting what’s gonna happen next. I mean that ending!?! Seriously, I am baffled and practically chomping at the bit for the next book!
I loved the relationship between Scarlen and Bear. Honestly, aside from the plot, that is what had me truly hooked on this book. I couldn’t get enough of them or their dynamic. And honestly I cannot wait to see what’s in store for them next.
Kate Dady truly did an amazing job with this one. And while I impatiently wait for the next installment of this series, I hope you will give this book a read!
April 18, 2026
I don’t know where to start with this book it had me invested from the start.
The FMC gets sent to a prison on an island, a remote island so there is no escape filled with a mixed bag a criminals that would all want a piece of her if they knew her identity.
Loved this setting and the introduction of characters with strong personalities and attitude to match.
This was a gritty part of the book that I never knew what may change and add to the tension whilst they are watching their back and trying to survive.
The ending to the book I did not see coming at all, I had to take a moment because it was like reading a different book all of a sudden. That being said I am intrigued of how the story is going to continue forward from there so will be keeping my eye out for the next book release.
The FMC gets sent to a prison on an island, a remote island so there is no escape filled with a mixed bag a criminals that would all want a piece of her if they knew her identity.
Loved this setting and the introduction of characters with strong personalities and attitude to match.
This was a gritty part of the book that I never knew what may change and add to the tension whilst they are watching their back and trying to survive.
The ending to the book I did not see coming at all, I had to take a moment because it was like reading a different book all of a sudden. That being said I am intrigued of how the story is going to continue forward from there so will be keeping my eye out for the next book release.
April 24, 2026
I really loved this book, the pacing was great, world building was great and this prison was just mind blowing!
We meet Scarlen, who is sent to prison for stealing food, Scarlen is under false identity as she is actually a runaway princess. Scared for her life if anyone found out, she is claimed by the enemy, Bear, a shape shifters, who protects her.
There are Hunger games style battles, extremely harsh punishments, shape shifters, witches, prison break and an evil King... what more can you want?
I read this book in 2 days as I had to know what happens next. There's a lot of action to keep you on your toes and is a must read.
We meet Scarlen, who is sent to prison for stealing food, Scarlen is under false identity as she is actually a runaway princess. Scared for her life if anyone found out, she is claimed by the enemy, Bear, a shape shifters, who protects her.
There are Hunger games style battles, extremely harsh punishments, shape shifters, witches, prison break and an evil King... what more can you want?
I read this book in 2 days as I had to know what happens next. There's a lot of action to keep you on your toes and is a must read.
April 25, 2026
I’m still processing the ending of this book! What an incredible whirlwind it’s been.
I adore the characters. I felt like I was right there with them. The FMC is so likeable and I experienced all her emotions alongside her.
The setting was fantastic. I was completely gripped and couldn’t put the book down. I couldn’t read fast enough to find out what happened next.
I never guessed how the story would develop and I wasn’t disappointed.
I completely lost myself in this book. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to the author for taking me on such a wild ride that I could forget all about life around me.
I adore the characters. I felt like I was right there with them. The FMC is so likeable and I experienced all her emotions alongside her.
The setting was fantastic. I was completely gripped and couldn’t put the book down. I couldn’t read fast enough to find out what happened next.
I never guessed how the story would develop and I wasn’t disappointed.
I completely lost myself in this book. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to the author for taking me on such a wild ride that I could forget all about life around me.
April 25, 2026
Ring of Fire is the first book in a new romantasy series by Kate Dady, and it's brilliant!
This is a fast read, and by that I mean you won't put it down. So much action from the start, where a princess is placed in prison for six months and is immediately claimed by the king's enemy as his own. But Bear Vyer has no idea of Scarlen Smithson's true identity, and we are taken along a very adrenaline-filled story.
The vibe for this book, for me, is Hunger Games with a splash of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, with a little spice.
Both are favourite books of mine, and may explain why I devoured this one too.
I can not wait for book two, as Kate has left us hungry for more.
This is a fast read, and by that I mean you won't put it down. So much action from the start, where a princess is placed in prison for six months and is immediately claimed by the king's enemy as his own. But Bear Vyer has no idea of Scarlen Smithson's true identity, and we are taken along a very adrenaline-filled story.
The vibe for this book, for me, is Hunger Games with a splash of The Serpent and the Wings of Night, with a little spice.
Both are favourite books of mine, and may explain why I devoured this one too.
I can not wait for book two, as Kate has left us hungry for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAT EVEN WAS THAT ENDING?
I adored this. The blurb sounded amazing and the book really does meet that expectation. The world building was sublime and I loved the characters. It reminded me of another book I read recently but I can't place the name!
Books set in a fantasy prison seem to be my jam lately, I'm hooked! You really get a strong sense of the character's personalities straight away.
I couldn't put this book down and I am so seated for Book 2. Which coincidentally, is out on my birthday! I cannot wait to see where this goes.
I adored this. The blurb sounded amazing and the book really does meet that expectation. The world building was sublime and I loved the characters. It reminded me of another book I read recently but I can't place the name!
Books set in a fantasy prison seem to be my jam lately, I'm hooked! You really get a strong sense of the character's personalities straight away.
I couldn't put this book down and I am so seated for Book 2. Which coincidentally, is out on my birthday! I cannot wait to see where this goes.
April 16, 2026
This is a spectacular romantasy set mainly in a prison. I enjoyed the fact that I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know what would happen next after every single page I read. The twists kept coming and I felt like my head was spinning in the washing machine. It's unbelievably pacey with suspense that has you on edge expecting danger at every turn. The ending is totally frustrating because now I am craving the next book because of the major cliffhanger. I am beyond impressed by Ring of Fire.
April 23, 2026
We are thrown into the deep end from the beginning, with the FMC making her way to a prison despite being the princess of the land. The story moves along quickly, with the MMC being introduced quickly by 'claiming' the princess. I am not sure how much of an enemies to lovers it is, but it definitely has Hunger Game vibes for part of it.
The one part that really caught me off guard was the ending. I can't decide if I liked it or not. I can imagine it will have some people gasping, for me it was more of a what??
Still it was fun and I'll be reading the next book for sure.
The one part that really caught me off guard was the ending. I can't decide if I liked it or not. I can imagine it will have some people gasping, for me it was more of a what??
Still it was fun and I'll be reading the next book for sure.
April 14, 2026
Wow! This story is just brilliant. I literally read it in one day and couldn't put it down. I was so invested in it right from the start.
An absolutely phenomenal romantasy debut from Kate Dady!
Totally can't wait for the the second installment. Just epic!!
An absolutely phenomenal romantasy debut from Kate Dady!
Totally can't wait for the the second installment. Just epic!!
June 2, 2026
Such an amazing start to a series (reread ready for book 2)
April 30, 2026
🩷 Blurb-
Book one in an utterly addictive enemies-to-lovers romantasy that will keep you hooked forever.
--------------------------------------------------
Hunger Games meets Escape from Alcatraz meets West Side Story.
--------------------------------------------------
A war zone in prison
A secret identity
A forbidden love
She never should have lied. Now she’s Scarlen Smithson, petty thief in the notorious Horstal Island prison where Bear Vyer, enemy to the king, is an inmate. Luckily, he doesn’t know she is the princess, but that doesn’t stop him claiming her for his own.
🩵 Review -
Being a fantasy novel fan, I knew that I had to read Ring Of Fire and I'm so glad that I did. This was such a well written and brilliantly paced novel. From the very first page I was hooked and drawn into the story and there was plenty of content to keep me interested and reading until the end. Plus there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
💝 Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, the publisher and author Kate Dady for my e arc copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Book one in an utterly addictive enemies-to-lovers romantasy that will keep you hooked forever.
--------------------------------------------------
Hunger Games meets Escape from Alcatraz meets West Side Story.
--------------------------------------------------
A war zone in prison
A secret identity
A forbidden love
She never should have lied. Now she’s Scarlen Smithson, petty thief in the notorious Horstal Island prison where Bear Vyer, enemy to the king, is an inmate. Luckily, he doesn’t know she is the princess, but that doesn’t stop him claiming her for his own.
🩵 Review -
Being a fantasy novel fan, I knew that I had to read Ring Of Fire and I'm so glad that I did. This was such a well written and brilliantly paced novel. From the very first page I was hooked and drawn into the story and there was plenty of content to keep me interested and reading until the end. Plus there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
💝 Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, the publisher and author Kate Dady for my e arc copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am struggling to put into words just how much I loved this book. I am so glad it is only the first in a series as I am desperate to return to the Ring of Fire world.
I became completely addicted to this book. The majority of the story is set in the severe Horstel prison which houses inmates from petty thieves right up to the most dangerous murderers. It's tough and magically protected. Every six months Hunger Games style trials take place that must end in a death. It's here the main characters Bear Vyer and Scarlen Smithson first cross paths.
This romantasy had all the tropes I absolutely adore. There's enemies to lovers, fated mates, hidden identity and forced proximity. Scarlen and Bear should hate each other. They want to hate each other. But the sexual tension just oozes from the pair. They are drawn to each other feeling like they have finally found their family.
I really liked the dark, intimidating setting of the prison. The storyline kept me hooked and oh wow there are some spicy moments between Scarlen and Bear.
I NEED book two!!
I became completely addicted to this book. The majority of the story is set in the severe Horstel prison which houses inmates from petty thieves right up to the most dangerous murderers. It's tough and magically protected. Every six months Hunger Games style trials take place that must end in a death. It's here the main characters Bear Vyer and Scarlen Smithson first cross paths.
This romantasy had all the tropes I absolutely adore. There's enemies to lovers, fated mates, hidden identity and forced proximity. Scarlen and Bear should hate each other. They want to hate each other. But the sexual tension just oozes from the pair. They are drawn to each other feeling like they have finally found their family.
I really liked the dark, intimidating setting of the prison. The storyline kept me hooked and oh wow there are some spicy moments between Scarlen and Bear.
I NEED book two!!
April 15, 2026
I read this so fast, I was hooked from the start.
I loved the characters in this, the connections they had, everything. This was so close to 5 stars but the ending was just too fast for me? So it’s a 4.75 but we’ll round it to 5.
I need more from this series and I need it now.
Perfect for anyone looking for a fantasy romance book with unexpected endings.
I need more of Bear & Scars.
I loved the characters in this, the connections they had, everything. This was so close to 5 stars but the ending was just too fast for me? So it’s a 4.75 but we’ll round it to 5.
I need more from this series and I need it now.
Perfect for anyone looking for a fantasy romance book with unexpected endings.
I need more of Bear & Scars.
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