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Kings of Fury #3
The Fire Bride
She has burned through lifetimes alone.
In the hidden realm of Ashmorra, immortal berserkatrix Olyssa Drachenveil, Queen of Dragons, has spent centuries bound to a cruel grant eternal life to a mortal firebrand in the heat of her flames or watch him perish. But any man she’s ignited has died screaming. She’s vowed never to test another.
He must survive her fire.
Taron Locke, brilliant historian and secret dragon slayer, has spent his life preparing to end the creature who murdered his father. A legend cloaked in beauty and ruin. When he summons her with ancient chains, he intends to end her reign, not fall under her spell. But the moment they meet, everything combusts. A battle. A bond. A kiss that could burn an empire to ash.
In war, desire is the most dangerous blaze.
As ancient enemies rise and Olyssa’s crown—and heart—hang in the balance, she must decide whether to defy destiny or surrender to it. And Taron must destroy the queen he was born to hate… or become the firebrand destined to love her for eternity.
In the hidden realm of Ashmorra, immortal berserkatrix Olyssa Drachenveil, Queen of Dragons, has spent centuries bound to a cruel grant eternal life to a mortal firebrand in the heat of her flames or watch him perish. But any man she’s ignited has died screaming. She’s vowed never to test another.
He must survive her fire.
Taron Locke, brilliant historian and secret dragon slayer, has spent his life preparing to end the creature who murdered his father. A legend cloaked in beauty and ruin. When he summons her with ancient chains, he intends to end her reign, not fall under her spell. But the moment they meet, everything combusts. A battle. A bond. A kiss that could burn an empire to ash.
In war, desire is the most dangerous blaze.
As ancient enemies rise and Olyssa’s crown—and heart—hang in the balance, she must decide whether to defy destiny or surrender to it. And Taron must destroy the queen he was born to hate… or become the firebrand destined to love her for eternity.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 30, 2026
About the author
Gena Showalter
279 books27.9k followersGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 21, 2026
A fierce, loyal, protective dragon Queen who is beautiful, witty, and intelligent vs a fierce, driven, vengeful dragon slayer who is handsome, intelligent and sexy. This is a great story of adventure, challenges, wars, unbidden attraction, romance, suspense and a twist you won’t see coming. I love Olyssa and Taron. These two are on the top of my favorites list!
March 30, 2026
The Fire Bride is the third book in Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe’s King of Fury series. I’ve enjoyed each one of the books in this series because both Gena and Jill are the Queens of writing Paranormal Romance with strong heroines and heroes. They also excel at writing Fated Mates and Enemies to Lovers storylines, which are two of my favorite tropes to read in romance books.
I loved both characters in this installment because Olyssa is a fierce and strong immortal dragon queen determined to break the bond with Taron and escape the curse she’s been cursed with for many years. She knows how to handle anyone who tries to overpower her and wants her crown. When it came to Taron, he may be a human and a professor, but he knows how to fight and is willing to do anything to take on Olyssa and break the bond between them, even though when they are forced to work together to find the ingredients that will help them break their potential bond, the attraction between them becomes inevitable. And I was one reader who loved the yearning that was happening between Olyssa and Taron.
This book was full of adventure and danger, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. The twist at the end surprised me, and I loved every moment. Olyssa and Taron’s love story stands out for how they overcame obstacles to be together. Their love rose above everything thrown at them.
I do want to mention that the books in this series, including this one, only have kissing, so if you are expecting spice, you won’t get that in this series.
Overall, I give this book 4.5 stars and look forward to the next in the series, featuring Olyssa’s sister and a Kraken. Sign me up immediately for a Kraken romance. 🥰
POV: First Person (Single POV)
Standalone or Part of Series: It’s part of the Kings of Fury series, but each book can be read as a standalone.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. If you enjoy adventurous romances where characters become reluctant allies with forbidden attraction and battle to break a curse, check out The Fire Bride by Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe.
What to Expect:
🩷Enemies to Lovers
🩷Forbidden Love
🩷Fated Mates
🩷Slow Burn – Kissing Only
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved both characters in this installment because Olyssa is a fierce and strong immortal dragon queen determined to break the bond with Taron and escape the curse she’s been cursed with for many years. She knows how to handle anyone who tries to overpower her and wants her crown. When it came to Taron, he may be a human and a professor, but he knows how to fight and is willing to do anything to take on Olyssa and break the bond between them, even though when they are forced to work together to find the ingredients that will help them break their potential bond, the attraction between them becomes inevitable. And I was one reader who loved the yearning that was happening between Olyssa and Taron.
This book was full of adventure and danger, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. The twist at the end surprised me, and I loved every moment. Olyssa and Taron’s love story stands out for how they overcame obstacles to be together. Their love rose above everything thrown at them.
I do want to mention that the books in this series, including this one, only have kissing, so if you are expecting spice, you won’t get that in this series.
Overall, I give this book 4.5 stars and look forward to the next in the series, featuring Olyssa’s sister and a Kraken. Sign me up immediately for a Kraken romance. 🥰
POV: First Person (Single POV)
Standalone or Part of Series: It’s part of the Kings of Fury series, but each book can be read as a standalone.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. If you enjoy adventurous romances where characters become reluctant allies with forbidden attraction and battle to break a curse, check out The Fire Bride by Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe.
What to Expect:
🩷Enemies to Lovers
🩷Forbidden Love
🩷Fated Mates
🩷Slow Burn – Kissing Only
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 16, 2026
I haven’t read the other two in the series but this works perfectly as a stand alone and is thoroughly enjoyable. Narrator did a great job although I think personally the loss of the German accent wouldn’t haven’t hurt. This was a fast easy listen and I loved the banter and chemistry they had. The end …. Such a twist …. If you enjoy dragon shifters, enemies or lovers and touch him/her and die you’ll love this! Thanks netgalley the author and the publishers for this ALC
March 30, 2026
A very lighthearted and easy binge read. Most definitely a bit different from book 1 and 2 in the series which is nice because it keeps the series unique and different with every new addition. (Which we already know book 4 is about Kraken’s, so even more diversity!)
Initially, despite the symptoms of the bond, I felt like the escalation of seeing each other as mortal enemies to being very cordial and willing to share intel was quite fast and abrupt. But as time went on, their hesitation and back and forth manner began to feel more natural which I enjoyed. And that plot twist at the end- totally did not see that coming. Overall a good read, but personally book 1 & 2 are more my style. I’m SO looking forward to reading Bronwyn & Sebastion’s story next eeeee!
Thank you to the authors for providing me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Initially, despite the symptoms of the bond, I felt like the escalation of seeing each other as mortal enemies to being very cordial and willing to share intel was quite fast and abrupt. But as time went on, their hesitation and back and forth manner began to feel more natural which I enjoyed. And that plot twist at the end- totally did not see that coming. Overall a good read, but personally book 1 & 2 are more my style. I’m SO looking forward to reading Bronwyn & Sebastion’s story next eeeee!
Thank you to the authors for providing me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
March 30, 2026
While I enjoyed the story and the banter between Olyssa and Taron I would have enjoyed it more if it was dual POV. Taron unfortunately felt like an accessory to Olyssa. He was there but he had no real personality because it was all from her POV. Considering he’s been sneaking around her palace for months spying on her and plotting against her I would have liked to see things from his perspective instead of her seeing his memories in dreams. I wanted to be in his head as he realized he loved her and see her from his pov.
The second reason this only gets 3 stars is there is no smut. I have been reading Gena Showalter for decades and she used to do smut so well and suddenly her books are all smut free. Not even closed door just no smut at all. It’s disappointing.
The second reason this only gets 3 stars is there is no smut. I have been reading Gena Showalter for decades and she used to do smut so well and suddenly her books are all smut free. Not even closed door just no smut at all. It’s disappointing.
April 9, 2026
This third book in the Kings of Fury series took readers in a new direction, and I was totally on board with this Berserker Queen and her fated (mortal) mate. Olyssa and Taron were enemies from the very start, but I loved that their issues with each other were completely understandable, and their hesitancy to pursue any feelings was totally justifiable. There was a history there that you don’t find often, even when dealing with immortal beings.
I loved Lyssa. She was a strong queen, but had a vulnerability about her the two previous Berserkers didn’t possess. She realized quickly that her feelings for her fire brand were coming into play, and I loved how that shaped her journey throughout the story. Showalter and Monroe gave Olyssa their unique brand of quirkiness, making the character’s dialogue and inner thoughts a fun experience all around.
I knew Jill and Gena would give us a happily ever after, so one of the things that kept me intrigued throughout the plot was just how we were going to get there. Lyssa’s love story was quite unlike the first two Berserkers’, and the uniqueness kept the Kings of Fury series exciting with this latest addition.
Both main characters put a lot on the line in The Fire Bride: her crown, his life, their very happiness and fate. It was a whirlwind adventure for them both, and I was more than happy to be along for the ride. Olyssa isn’t my favorite Berserker (that honor will always be reserved for Callen), but she was such a spitfire that it was impossible not to love her and Taron.
I loved Lyssa. She was a strong queen, but had a vulnerability about her the two previous Berserkers didn’t possess. She realized quickly that her feelings for her fire brand were coming into play, and I loved how that shaped her journey throughout the story. Showalter and Monroe gave Olyssa their unique brand of quirkiness, making the character’s dialogue and inner thoughts a fun experience all around.
I knew Jill and Gena would give us a happily ever after, so one of the things that kept me intrigued throughout the plot was just how we were going to get there. Lyssa’s love story was quite unlike the first two Berserkers’, and the uniqueness kept the Kings of Fury series exciting with this latest addition.
Both main characters put a lot on the line in The Fire Bride: her crown, his life, their very happiness and fate. It was a whirlwind adventure for them both, and I was more than happy to be along for the ride. Olyssa isn’t my favorite Berserker (that honor will always be reserved for Callen), but she was such a spitfire that it was impossible not to love her and Taron.
May 15, 2026
* Listened to through NetGalley*
I personally think the first book in this series was the strongest, and everything after that just went downhill for me. Each installment felt weaker than the last. This one especially came across as very YA and juvenile. I don’t mind that there’s no smut, but the writing style itself made it feel aimed at a much younger audience. The narration didn’t help either because it felt overly silly and hard to take seriously.
A lot of the time I found myself bored, and the story never really grabbed me emotionally. I understand these are supposed to work as standalones, but they also don’t feel connected enough to justify being part of the same series. Overall, I don’t have much else to say besides maybe just read the first book and leave it at that.
I personally think the first book in this series was the strongest, and everything after that just went downhill for me. Each installment felt weaker than the last. This one especially came across as very YA and juvenile. I don’t mind that there’s no smut, but the writing style itself made it feel aimed at a much younger audience. The narration didn’t help either because it felt overly silly and hard to take seriously.
A lot of the time I found myself bored, and the story never really grabbed me emotionally. I understand these are supposed to work as standalones, but they also don’t feel connected enough to justify being part of the same series. Overall, I don’t have much else to say besides maybe just read the first book and leave it at that.
March 30, 2026
I have really loved this series so far and I think this book is my favorite! Olyssa has been cursed for centuries and that curse is tied directly to Taron Locke. Their story is fast paced. You jump right into the action! They have such an adorable meet cute. The banter between the two is fabulous! I love all Easter Eggs that are dropped!
“Quick. Tell me something terrible about yourself.” – Olyssa to Taron I just love this quote!!!
This is a fantastic, enemies-to not enemies-to who knows, story! I know because I read the book! So, hurry up, grab this excellent read and find out for yourself!
“Quick. Tell me something terrible about yourself.” – Olyssa to Taron I just love this quote!!!
This is a fantastic, enemies-to not enemies-to who knows, story! I know because I read the book! So, hurry up, grab this excellent read and find out for yourself!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dragon Queen Olyssa has been cursed. She loved a man, many generations ago, but he died when she burned him. Generation after generation, then men died.
There is one man left, of the family line, however her wants to kill the dragon.
Taron and Olyssa now have to work together on a quest. The longer they spend together, the closer they feel until lines become blurred......
There fun Easter Eggs, in this story, as well as feisty sisters, battles to be won, betrayals and an amazing twist.
Thank you to Gena Show alter for the advanced copy
There is one man left, of the family line, however her wants to kill the dragon.
Taron and Olyssa now have to work together on a quest. The longer they spend together, the closer they feel until lines become blurred......
There fun Easter Eggs, in this story, as well as feisty sisters, battles to be won, betrayals and an amazing twist.
Thank you to Gena Show alter for the advanced copy
May 16, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, publisher, and authors for the advanced listeners copy.
This is the third installment in the series. FMC is a fierce dragon berserker queen. MMC is a professor in modern day Georgia. He was seeking revenge from the queen who killed his grandfather and father. She was just trying to find her fire brand while running a kingdom.
What to expect from this book:
Enemies to lovers ✅
Dragons ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Fated bond ✅
Book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrator ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the third installment in the series. FMC is a fierce dragon berserker queen. MMC is a professor in modern day Georgia. He was seeking revenge from the queen who killed his grandfather and father. She was just trying to find her fire brand while running a kingdom.
What to expect from this book:
Enemies to lovers ✅
Dragons ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Fated bond ✅
Book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrator ⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 26, 2026
This story was a fun adventure. We got forbidden love, enemies to lovers and a lot of fun banter. The authors gave in a unique world that was familiar and different at the same time. Each chapter built on the story and the world without being overwhelming.
March 31, 2026
Opposites attract between these fateful firebrand destinies! Alyssa is determined to break the bond with Taron and escape the curse she’s been under for years. Taron also wants to break their bond so they have to work together to end it. This journey is rocky but love conquers all!
March 31, 2026
Once the story gets going, I really enjoyed it.
The back and forth of these two characters was phenomenal. I love the family dynamics and how having him there brings her back to her sisters.
I really can't wait to see what happens next!!!!
The back and forth of these two characters was phenomenal. I love the family dynamics and how having him there brings her back to her sisters.
I really can't wait to see what happens next!!!!
April 4, 2026
Hate to Love
The third Bride/Kings of Fury book is a story of hate, loss and forgiveness that eventually leads to a love forged in fire. The story is also a reminder that there are two sides or perspectives to every story.
The third Bride/Kings of Fury book is a story of hate, loss and forgiveness that eventually leads to a love forged in fire. The story is also a reminder that there are two sides or perspectives to every story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this! I was hooked from the first page and could not put it down! I loved the romance and the banter. I can't wait for the next book!
April 4, 2026
I was soooo excited for this one and it did NOT disappoint! I loved it!
April 13, 2026
I think Olyssa and Taron are my favorite couple so far. This is the 3rd in the series & the stories keep getting better! Can't wait for the next one!
April 19, 2026
Awesome read!
April 25, 2026
One of the reasons I love Gena Showalter and Jill Monroe's books is their sense of whimsy. Who says the powerful dragon-shifter berserker queen can't be funny, cute and sentimental? And that her nemesis, the man whose family the queen has devastated can't also find himself attracted to her?
Olyssa's inner dialogue is so entertaining whenever she's thinking about Taron. It's also sad when she thinks of his father and grandfather before him (for generations) because she truly loved the men she ultimately destroyed. Whenever she crosses paths with Taron she's torn. She doesn't want to hurt him but dang she's attracted. Taron has the same problem.
Berserkers need their firebrand to pull them back when they get crazed. Did Taron just have that affect on Olyssa? No, that can't be. Can it?
It was a fun ride following these through their messy lives. They need to track down the ingredients to create the potion to release their bond. It's really treacherous. They find themselves in life and death situations multiple times. All of which just results in bringing the two closer.
The book is full of action and tension, touching relationships and fun dialog. I definitely recommend it.
Olyssa's inner dialogue is so entertaining whenever she's thinking about Taron. It's also sad when she thinks of his father and grandfather before him (for generations) because she truly loved the men she ultimately destroyed. Whenever she crosses paths with Taron she's torn. She doesn't want to hurt him but dang she's attracted. Taron has the same problem.
Berserkers need their firebrand to pull them back when they get crazed. Did Taron just have that affect on Olyssa? No, that can't be. Can it?
It was a fun ride following these through their messy lives. They need to track down the ingredients to create the potion to release their bond. It's really treacherous. They find themselves in life and death situations multiple times. All of which just results in bringing the two closer.
The book is full of action and tension, touching relationships and fun dialog. I definitely recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved loved this book! All of the Kings of Fury books are great. Watching Olyssa's relationship with Taron evolve was beautiful. This is a slow burn romance with sizzle between the two main characters. Bonus - easter eggs dropped in the story!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews