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Awakened #2
Aflame
In a land of fire and ice, love is considered a weakness.
Princess Valkyrja has always been deemed "pretty and useless" by her family, who rule the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Though she has the same magical Blessing over ice and snow as her brother, sister, and father, she can never seem to use it for the brute-force ruling they require, choosing instead to make art that makes her people smile. But when a horrific attack shakes their whole world, she has to step up...and find a strength she didn't know she had.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame.
Princess Valkyrja has always been deemed "pretty and useless" by her family, who rule the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Though she has the same magical Blessing over ice and snow as her brother, sister, and father, she can never seem to use it for the brute-force ruling they require, choosing instead to make art that makes her people smile. But when a horrific attack shakes their whole world, she has to step up...and find a strength she didn't know she had.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2026
About the author
Roseanna M. White
69 books3,999 followersRoseanna M. White is a bestselling, Christy Award nominated author who has long claimed that words are the air she breathes. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two kids, editing, designing book covers, and pretending her house will clean itself. Roseanna is the author of a slew of historical novels that span several continents and thousands of years. Spies and war and mayhem always seem to find their way into her books…to offset her real life, which is blessedly ordinary. She and her family make their home in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia. You can learn more about her and her stories at www.RoseannaMWhite.com.
see also Roseanna White
see also Roseanna White
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
January 27, 2026
Aflame…where the begin?
I’m a little bit at loss for how Roseanne M. White jumped into the world of romantasy with such…skill? (I don’t know what word I’m looking for here.) Aflame was a worthy sequel to the wonderful fantasy debut, Awakened, and as a sucker for series-tie-ins, the cast of characters really took this book to the next level. Kyrja was such a beautiful character, and the plot of this book—I feel like I can’t even describe how hooked I was! I read the book in one day, if that’s any indicator…I loved seeing the POV of Nikanor, Daemon and Elianne as well, and the way they all interacted with the Creator God in this series is both fascinating and beautiful.
I also ADORED the Icelandic-inspired setting SO. MUCH. I love the ice-and-fire battle throughout the story, and the payoff at the end…YES! Chef’s kiss, so, so good.
Five stars for this book, and book 3 better come soon! (I’m actually even more excited about the location of that book, if that’s possible…)
I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I’m a little bit at loss for how Roseanne M. White jumped into the world of romantasy with such…skill? (I don’t know what word I’m looking for here.) Aflame was a worthy sequel to the wonderful fantasy debut, Awakened, and as a sucker for series-tie-ins, the cast of characters really took this book to the next level. Kyrja was such a beautiful character, and the plot of this book—I feel like I can’t even describe how hooked I was! I read the book in one day, if that’s any indicator…I loved seeing the POV of Nikanor, Daemon and Elianne as well, and the way they all interacted with the Creator God in this series is both fascinating and beautiful.
I also ADORED the Icelandic-inspired setting SO. MUCH. I love the ice-and-fire battle throughout the story, and the payoff at the end…YES! Chef’s kiss, so, so good.
Five stars for this book, and book 3 better come soon! (I’m actually even more excited about the location of that book, if that’s possible…)
I received a complimentary copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
June 7, 2026
5 stars!!!! (thoughts and content warnings below)
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me access to this audiobook! I truly loved this story!
Book #2 of Awakened
❄️🔥What This Book is About🔥❄️
"In a land of fire and ice, love is considered a weakness.
Princess Valkyrja has always been deemed "pretty and useless" by her family, who rule the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Though she has the same magical Blessing over ice and snow as her brother, sister, and father, she can never seem to use it for the brute-force ruling they require, choosing instead to make art that makes her people smile. But when a horrific attack shakes their whole world, she has to step up . . . and find a strength she didn't know she had.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame."
❄️🔥My Thoughts🔥❄️
To preface, I didn't realize that this was the second book of a series until after I had requested it from NetGalley, however I feel like this book can be read as a standalone. It follows a different character than the first book does and is set in a different kingdom, so it can stand on it's own. If I wouldn't have saw that this book is in a series, I wouldn't have realized it while reading the book. It might be better to read book 1 first, but I can't say to do that because that's not what I ended up doing.
All that being said, the world building was amazing and so emersive! The magic system was also really interesting; I liked the concept of the different kingdoms in this world each having their own elemental power/magic. I also loved the way that it pointed back to God; the faith content was great, especially the parts about the forgiveness of sins.
The characters are fantastic and while I loved the two main characters (Valkyrja and Nikanor), Perla and Daemen were my favorites! Perla was witty and hilarious (I really want the next book in the series to be about her), and Daemen was just *chef's kiss*. I found his pov to be so interesting and I really wanted to learn his backstory throughout reading this book. He's also just a good character and I want to see more of him.
The book really nails all the points; great characters, immersive world building, sweet and clean romance, clever and gripping plotting with surprising twists, and powerful faith content! If this sounds like a book you would like, I highly recommend it!!!!
❄️🔥 Content Notes🔥❄️
🤬 Language: none
🌶️ Spice/Sexual: no spice. Brief kissing (not overly detailed), talk of producing heirs (not in an inappropriate way), one unwanted kiss. The "nobility's" tradition of finding a match that will produce magical children is a prevalent part of the story but it's not talked about in an inappropriate way.
🏳️🌈 LGBT: none
💀 Violence: bomb explosion, battles kidnapping, mentions of past deaths from being thrown into a volcano, burns from fire/lava; none of which are graphic or descriptive.
⚠️ Other Trigger Warnings: grief, loss of family members, parental neglect, cheating (portrayed as being a bad thing).
Age Rating: 12+
I received a free audio copy of this book from NetGalley. All of the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me access to this audiobook! I truly loved this story!
Book #2 of Awakened
❄️🔥What This Book is About🔥❄️
"In a land of fire and ice, love is considered a weakness.
Princess Valkyrja has always been deemed "pretty and useless" by her family, who rule the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Though she has the same magical Blessing over ice and snow as her brother, sister, and father, she can never seem to use it for the brute-force ruling they require, choosing instead to make art that makes her people smile. But when a horrific attack shakes their whole world, she has to step up . . . and find a strength she didn't know she had.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame."
❄️🔥My Thoughts🔥❄️
To preface, I didn't realize that this was the second book of a series until after I had requested it from NetGalley, however I feel like this book can be read as a standalone. It follows a different character than the first book does and is set in a different kingdom, so it can stand on it's own. If I wouldn't have saw that this book is in a series, I wouldn't have realized it while reading the book. It might be better to read book 1 first, but I can't say to do that because that's not what I ended up doing.
All that being said, the world building was amazing and so emersive! The magic system was also really interesting; I liked the concept of the different kingdoms in this world each having their own elemental power/magic. I also loved the way that it pointed back to God; the faith content was great, especially the parts about the forgiveness of sins.
The characters are fantastic and while I loved the two main characters (Valkyrja and Nikanor), Perla and Daemen were my favorites! Perla was witty and hilarious (I really want the next book in the series to be about her), and Daemen was just *chef's kiss*. I found his pov to be so interesting and I really wanted to learn his backstory throughout reading this book. He's also just a good character and I want to see more of him.
The book really nails all the points; great characters, immersive world building, sweet and clean romance, clever and gripping plotting with surprising twists, and powerful faith content! If this sounds like a book you would like, I highly recommend it!!!!
❄️🔥 Content Notes🔥❄️
🤬 Language: none
🌶️ Spice/Sexual: no spice. Brief kissing (not overly detailed), talk of producing heirs (not in an inappropriate way), one unwanted kiss. The "nobility's" tradition of finding a match that will produce magical children is a prevalent part of the story but it's not talked about in an inappropriate way.
🏳️🌈 LGBT: none
💀 Violence: bomb explosion, battles kidnapping, mentions of past deaths from being thrown into a volcano, burns from fire/lava; none of which are graphic or descriptive.
⚠️ Other Trigger Warnings: grief, loss of family members, parental neglect, cheating (portrayed as being a bad thing).
Age Rating: 12+
I received a free audio copy of this book from NetGalley. All of the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
April 12, 2026
This book was fabulous. Fantasy, but with biblical themes. So well done. I can’t wait for the next one!
April 24, 2026
At first, this was a solid five-star, but the final few chapters confused me a bit, so I'm going with a 4.75-star rating until I get the audiobook and re-read this as an immersive read.
Some sequels continue a story…and then there are the ones that deepen, stretch, and set it ablaze. Aflame is absolutely the latter.
From the very beginning, I was pulled right back into this world with ease. The transition from Awakened felt seamless, but what truly stood out is how much richer everything became. The world-building didn’t just expand, it intensified. Every layer felt more alive, more intentional, and more immersive. You could feel the shift in the world from the mer kingdom and world of water to the coldness of ice and the warmth of volcanoes.
The characters? Beautifully written. They felt real, complex, and deeply rooted in both their struggles and their growth. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, especially as the stakes grew higher and the tension deepened. There’s a sincerity to their development that makes you not just read their story, but feel it.
For me, one of the strongest elements of Aflame is how the characters truly come alive and carry the weight of the story in such a meaningful way.
Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling character because of her inner tension. She isn’t just navigating external conflict; she’s wrestling with identity, responsibility, and what it truly means to walk in truth. Her strength isn’t loud or one-dimensional; it’s layered with vulnerability, conviction, and growth. Watching her step more fully into who she’s meant to be was one of the most rewarding parts of the story. There’s a quiet fire in her that mirrors the deeper spiritual themes of the book.
Nikanor brings a depth that balances strength with humility. His journey feels grounded and sincere, especially in how he processes faith, duty, and love. There’s something very steady about him, but not in a stagnant way; more like a foundation you can trust. His interactions, especially with Valkyrja, feel genuine and layered, and you can see how his character continues to be refined under pressure.
The Cursed, such as Daemon and Elianna, add such a haunting and powerful dimension to the story. They’re not just antagonistic forces; they represent brokenness, consequence, and the lingering effects of choices and corruption. What stood out to me is how they aren’t portrayed as flat villains. There’s complexity there that makes you think deeper about redemption, loss, and what it means to be truly restored. They carry both tension and tragedy. Even the fact that they are called Cursed when they are much more than that says so much about who they are as people.
The Ice King is a presence. Every time he’s on the page, you feel it and get irritated to the core. He’s not just powerful, he’s chilling in a way that goes beyond physical threat. There’s a symbolic weight to him that ties into the broader themes of the story: control, coldness, and opposition to truth and light. He raises the stakes in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal.
Altogether, these characters don’t just move the plot forward; they embody the heart of the story. Each one reflects a different aspect of the book’s deeper themes, especially faith, identity, and transformation. That’s what makes Aflame feel so rich; it’s not just a story you read, it’s one you experience through the lives of its characters.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the faith system is woven so naturally into the narrative. It doesn’t feel forced or surface-level. Instead, it carries weight. It challenges, it refines, and it speaks into the characters’ decisions in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Starting off as a half-athiest kingdom and seeing them grow into the faith was so well done and fleshed out amazingly. I loved it.
And the magic system? Absolutely captivating. It’s structured, unique, and beautifully integrated into the world itself. Nothing felt random; everything had purpose, which made the story even more compelling.
Honestly, I loved just about everything about this book; the pacing, the atmosphere, the emotional depth, and the way it builds anticipation for what’s to come. If Awakened drew me in, Aflame anchored me there.
This was an incredible follow-up, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next in book three, Amazed.
Some sequels continue a story…and then there are the ones that deepen, stretch, and set it ablaze. Aflame is absolutely the latter.
From the very beginning, I was pulled right back into this world with ease. The transition from Awakened felt seamless, but what truly stood out is how much richer everything became. The world-building didn’t just expand, it intensified. Every layer felt more alive, more intentional, and more immersive. You could feel the shift in the world from the mer kingdom and world of water to the coldness of ice and the warmth of volcanoes.
The characters? Beautifully written. They felt real, complex, and deeply rooted in both their struggles and their growth. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, especially as the stakes grew higher and the tension deepened. There’s a sincerity to their development that makes you not just read their story, but feel it.
For me, one of the strongest elements of Aflame is how the characters truly come alive and carry the weight of the story in such a meaningful way.
Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling character because of her inner tension. She isn’t just navigating external conflict; she’s wrestling with identity, responsibility, and what it truly means to walk in truth. Her strength isn’t loud or one-dimensional; it’s layered with vulnerability, conviction, and growth. Watching her step more fully into who she’s meant to be was one of the most rewarding parts of the story. There’s a quiet fire in her that mirrors the deeper spiritual themes of the book.
Nikanor brings a depth that balances strength with humility. His journey feels grounded and sincere, especially in how he processes faith, duty, and love. There’s something very steady about him, but not in a stagnant way; more like a foundation you can trust. His interactions, especially with Valkyrja, feel genuine and layered, and you can see how his character continues to be refined under pressure.
The Cursed, such as Daemon and Elianna, add such a haunting and powerful dimension to the story. They’re not just antagonistic forces; they represent brokenness, consequence, and the lingering effects of choices and corruption. What stood out to me is how they aren’t portrayed as flat villains. There’s complexity there that makes you think deeper about redemption, loss, and what it means to be truly restored. They carry both tension and tragedy. Even the fact that they are called Cursed when they are much more than that says so much about who they are as people.
The Ice King is a presence. Every time he’s on the page, you feel it and get irritated to the core. He’s not just powerful, he’s chilling in a way that goes beyond physical threat. There’s a symbolic weight to him that ties into the broader themes of the story: control, coldness, and opposition to truth and light. He raises the stakes in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal.
Altogether, these characters don’t just move the plot forward; they embody the heart of the story. Each one reflects a different aspect of the book’s deeper themes, especially faith, identity, and transformation. That’s what makes Aflame feel so rich; it’s not just a story you read, it’s one you experience through the lives of its characters.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the faith system is woven so naturally into the narrative. It doesn’t feel forced or surface-level. Instead, it carries weight. It challenges, it refines, and it speaks into the characters’ decisions in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Starting off as a half-athiest kingdom and seeing them grow into the faith was so well done and fleshed out amazingly. I loved it.
And the magic system? Absolutely captivating. It’s structured, unique, and beautifully integrated into the world itself. Nothing felt random; everything had purpose, which made the story even more compelling.
Honestly, I loved just about everything about this book; the pacing, the atmosphere, the emotional depth, and the way it builds anticipation for what’s to come. If Awakened drew me in, Aflame anchored me there.
This was an incredible follow-up, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next in book three, Amazed.
February 25, 2026
Thank you to Roseanna M. White and WhiteCrown Publishing for sending me an eARC of this book to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kyrja was never supposed to be an heir of Fjordlandi. She was nothing more than a gift to her mamma, a pet. She was a disappointment to her fodur; weak in her magic. Nik is a Thane, a commoner who is called to the capital by his father. As Nik arrives in the city a bomb goes off. It just so happens that he and his friend are talking with Princess Kyrja in the street when this happens. He runs with her to the palace, where they discover all members of her family are deceased except for her fodur. After helping with clean-up Nik is confroted by the King, and then arrested because his father had been the one to set the bomb. He is put in prison, and the King intends to kill him, but Kyrja (now the Heir Apparent) steps in. The story goes from there.
This is another great installment of this fantasy series from Roseanna M. White. It is so great to see an author who writes amazing historical fiction turn around and also write something so totally different and it be just as amazing. I love that this world (from both books) is a futuristic world, and that the magic is born out some sort of technology. The detail of the world building in this story is simply stunning. Not only are there the blessed people and their magic, but there are also the “cursed” and their magic. There was also the whole fire and ice opposites thing. It is riveting how she works these things together and against each other. I loved the glimpses we get into characters from the first book, including their daughter, Perla. There was one slight issue I had with the book, and that was the amount of characters and how it switched between who we were “watching’. Sometimes I struggled to realize who exactly we were seeing, especially at the beginning of the book. That being said, once the reader has established who is who, the story is masterful. The faith content is evident from the very beginning. God is called The Giver in this world. While the faith content is evident, it in no way feel preachy or didactic. I enjoyed this book so much, and I can not wait to read book three when it releases.
I would recommend this book for readers who love fantasy and/or Science Fiction because there are elements of both in the story. I would especially recommend it to those looking for a Fantasy/Sci-Fi that is also clean or Christian in nature. If Christian references or allusions bother you, then this might not be the book for you.
Kyrja was never supposed to be an heir of Fjordlandi. She was nothing more than a gift to her mamma, a pet. She was a disappointment to her fodur; weak in her magic. Nik is a Thane, a commoner who is called to the capital by his father. As Nik arrives in the city a bomb goes off. It just so happens that he and his friend are talking with Princess Kyrja in the street when this happens. He runs with her to the palace, where they discover all members of her family are deceased except for her fodur. After helping with clean-up Nik is confroted by the King, and then arrested because his father had been the one to set the bomb. He is put in prison, and the King intends to kill him, but Kyrja (now the Heir Apparent) steps in. The story goes from there.
This is another great installment of this fantasy series from Roseanna M. White. It is so great to see an author who writes amazing historical fiction turn around and also write something so totally different and it be just as amazing. I love that this world (from both books) is a futuristic world, and that the magic is born out some sort of technology. The detail of the world building in this story is simply stunning. Not only are there the blessed people and their magic, but there are also the “cursed” and their magic. There was also the whole fire and ice opposites thing. It is riveting how she works these things together and against each other. I loved the glimpses we get into characters from the first book, including their daughter, Perla. There was one slight issue I had with the book, and that was the amount of characters and how it switched between who we were “watching’. Sometimes I struggled to realize who exactly we were seeing, especially at the beginning of the book. That being said, once the reader has established who is who, the story is masterful. The faith content is evident from the very beginning. God is called The Giver in this world. While the faith content is evident, it in no way feel preachy or didactic. I enjoyed this book so much, and I can not wait to read book three when it releases.
I would recommend this book for readers who love fantasy and/or Science Fiction because there are elements of both in the story. I would especially recommend it to those looking for a Fantasy/Sci-Fi that is also clean or Christian in nature. If Christian references or allusions bother you, then this might not be the book for you.
February 23, 2026
Are you ready for this second book in the Awakened series? I devoured the first book and did the same with this second one. Such a creative and intriguing plot, full of fantastic characters, intrigue, magic, faith, and a beautiful budding friendship and love story! Actually, a couple love stories.
Princess Valkyrja, aka Kyrja, was such a strong and resilient character. Learning more about her, her family dynamics, her mother, her father, her gifts, and her perception of herself, had me cheering her on and seeing such a strong person. I couldn't help but hope for the best for her. Her goodness was shining through the pages. And each interaction between her and other characters showed that even more. Especially when those interactions were with her father or in regards to him. I'll let you form your own opinion of him but let's just say that I wasn't his fan or supporter. Lol!
Nikanor, aka Nikk, is a thane and thinks he's going to have a way different experience when he meets Kyrja than what ends up happening. He has quite an interesting past as well. But I'm going to be very vague so I don't spoil anything. There were plenty of twists and turns that had me dropping my jaw and then being like, "Yes!!!!!" I loved it all. The author did an incredible job writing this story with all of the intricate details woven throughout. It was wonderful!
I really liked the other cast members as well. Daemon, Elianne, Perla, Raf, and more! This book takes place 150 years after Awakened, which dealt with the sea and wind. Aflame deals with fire and ice and it was truly incredible. The Blessed and the Cursed. Family and friends. Power/gifts verses none.
An epic and beautiful tale! I loved the aspects of the Giver woven all in the story. Beautiful!!! Join this crew of characters as the revolution for good and love and following the Giver will transform them all!!!
Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril but nothing graphic. Some sweet kisses. There are fights and talk of revolution for change for good, some death, no language. This is a Christian fiction novel so there are Christian aspects woven throughout that was done very beautifully.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Princess Valkyrja, aka Kyrja, was such a strong and resilient character. Learning more about her, her family dynamics, her mother, her father, her gifts, and her perception of herself, had me cheering her on and seeing such a strong person. I couldn't help but hope for the best for her. Her goodness was shining through the pages. And each interaction between her and other characters showed that even more. Especially when those interactions were with her father or in regards to him. I'll let you form your own opinion of him but let's just say that I wasn't his fan or supporter. Lol!
Nikanor, aka Nikk, is a thane and thinks he's going to have a way different experience when he meets Kyrja than what ends up happening. He has quite an interesting past as well. But I'm going to be very vague so I don't spoil anything. There were plenty of twists and turns that had me dropping my jaw and then being like, "Yes!!!!!" I loved it all. The author did an incredible job writing this story with all of the intricate details woven throughout. It was wonderful!
I really liked the other cast members as well. Daemon, Elianne, Perla, Raf, and more! This book takes place 150 years after Awakened, which dealt with the sea and wind. Aflame deals with fire and ice and it was truly incredible. The Blessed and the Cursed. Family and friends. Power/gifts verses none.
An epic and beautiful tale! I loved the aspects of the Giver woven all in the story. Beautiful!!! Join this crew of characters as the revolution for good and love and following the Giver will transform them all!!!
Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril but nothing graphic. Some sweet kisses. There are fights and talk of revolution for change for good, some death, no language. This is a Christian fiction novel so there are Christian aspects woven throughout that was done very beautifully.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 23, 2026
Princess Valkyrja has always been deemed "pretty and useless" by her family, who rule the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Though she has the same magical Blessing over ice and snow as her brother, sister, and father, she can never seem to use it for the brute-force ruling they require, choosing instead to make art that makes her people smile. But when a horrific attack shakes their whole world, she has to step up...and find a strength she didn't know she had.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame.
White's Aflame is the first of her books that I have read. I intend to find other books of hers to read. I loved the way White showed the faith journey of her characters, especially Valkyrja and Nikanor. Although their faith is known she doesn't force the journey on the reader. Sometimes you don't even realize that's what's happening. Even characters you don't think are on a journey you are pleasantly surprised at the end when you see the results of their journeys alongside Valkyrja and Nikanor.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine.
Nikanor has lived his life under the greenhouse domes, a commoner with no opportunities to do things he most desires—to study the Words or the law, to be something other than a farmer. When he and his best friend follow his father to the capital, he hopes only for a nice holiday. Instead, the attack throws him into the path of a princess, and his world is never the same.
But the Blessed aren't the only ones with magic in Fjordlandi. There are others already Awakened in the volcano, those called the Cursed, with lava in their veins and rebellion in their hearts. And once the fires of revolution ignite, they won't stop until all of Fjordlandi is Aflame.
White's Aflame is the first of her books that I have read. I intend to find other books of hers to read. I loved the way White showed the faith journey of her characters, especially Valkyrja and Nikanor. Although their faith is known she doesn't force the journey on the reader. Sometimes you don't even realize that's what's happening. Even characters you don't think are on a journey you are pleasantly surprised at the end when you see the results of their journeys alongside Valkyrja and Nikanor.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine.
February 28, 2026
I love this series so much! I squeel with joy as I happily pre-order every book and short story ebook! These books do need to be read in order.
The way Roseanna White is writting a fantasy world that is including all these diffrent cultural influences is unreal! Shifting from Islands to Nordic seems like it would be hard to connect togther but it is just seamless. At first I was a little bummed at the almost entirely new cast of characters, but that did not last long. This series is feeling like a exploration of a entire world, not just one character or one area. We are getting a big world! And a big view of it!
It is a little hard to talk about this book without giving away to much. Unlike Awakened, the romance is more low key in Aflame, more on the sweet side than the passion side. Except for Perla, she was one of my favorite parts of this book! Her character really elevated the story from the moment she sashayed into it. From the continued world building, to the characters, everything about this book is just a delight that will draw you right in and not let you go.
I can not wait for the next book! I am completely hooked on this series and I do not know what I will do with my life when it is done. I must say I REALLY REALLY wish the next short story was a entire book! I need more than these snippets of Perla, I love her character so much!
I recived a copy of the book from the publisher (but I bought my own copy as well!). All opinions, as always, are my own.
The way Roseanna White is writting a fantasy world that is including all these diffrent cultural influences is unreal! Shifting from Islands to Nordic seems like it would be hard to connect togther but it is just seamless. At first I was a little bummed at the almost entirely new cast of characters, but that did not last long. This series is feeling like a exploration of a entire world, not just one character or one area. We are getting a big world! And a big view of it!
It is a little hard to talk about this book without giving away to much. Unlike Awakened, the romance is more low key in Aflame, more on the sweet side than the passion side. Except for Perla, she was one of my favorite parts of this book! Her character really elevated the story from the moment she sashayed into it. From the continued world building, to the characters, everything about this book is just a delight that will draw you right in and not let you go.
I can not wait for the next book! I am completely hooked on this series and I do not know what I will do with my life when it is done. I must say I REALLY REALLY wish the next short story was a entire book! I need more than these snippets of Perla, I love her character so much!
I recived a copy of the book from the publisher (but I bought my own copy as well!). All opinions, as always, are my own.
March 3, 2026
You know when you feel chills while reading a book that it's a good one. A powerful, moving one. One that will move you to tears. At a coronation in a fantasy book!
If you haven't read Roseanna M. White's fantasy books yet, you really need to!
This book fascinated me from the beginning. Watching Kyrja come into her own, seeing the discovery of the Cursed (or are they?). And following the revolution.
Just spectacular. I loved every word.
If you haven't read Roseanna M. White's fantasy books yet, you really need to!
This book fascinated me from the beginning. Watching Kyrja come into her own, seeing the discovery of the Cursed (or are they?). And following the revolution.
Just spectacular. I loved every word.
March 7, 2026
As someone who doesn't normally enjoy fantasy, I'm finding this series surprisingly deep, engrossing, intriguing, and satisfying. I actually enjoyed the plot more in this book than the first of the series. The main heroine does seem a too little disney princess and YA for my taste, but all of the other characters have the depth and complexity that I've come to expect from the author. Faith themes are well woven, and the world building is captivating, easily fueling my imagination.
June 16, 2026
This was book 2 in the Awakened series by Roseanna M. White. It was just as captivating as the first book. The characters were great and the story had real depth. I also loved the Icelandic-inspired setting with the ice and fire battles throughout the story. I look to the third edition in this series!
March 13, 2026
Well what can I say? Roseanna M. White’s done it again! Just when I think she’s done her best writing, here comes another masterful work! Aflame is an intensely vibrant fantasy that is set in a land of ice, fire and a whole lot of magic. This book presents a lasting theme of walking in one’s Giver-given calling, which the two main protagonists of the story, Kyrja and Nikanor must discover on their quest for justice for the people of Fjordlandi, those who claim magical blessings or those who do not. This book starts out electrifying from chapter one and continues throughout the entire story!
*I was given a digital copy of the book solely for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinion expressed in my review is my own.
*I was given a digital copy of the book solely for the purpose of reviewing it. The opinion expressed in my review is my own.
June 25, 2026
This series has rapidly climbed the list of favorite fantasy series/most anticipated releases! I never want this series to end! As soon as I picked this book up, I knew it would be five stars! I still love Awakened the tiniest bit more, but Aflame definitely deserves every single glowing review it has received!
Valkyrja is exactly the type of female character I want to see more of! She is powerful but compassionate and exactly the type of queen Fjordlandi ends up needing! I loved watching her journey from the weakest of her family to stepping into queenhood with grace and humility.
Nikanor was another fabulously written character and I loved him from the beginning! His faith was so strong and I loved how he taught Kyrja about the Giver and helped guide her in her new faith. Roseanna weaves such deep characters and faith threads and I love getting to know them through all their complexities and struggles.
The romance between Kyrja and Nik felt so sweet and natural, I loved their chemistry and connection that forms between them. And that ending?? So hard won and satisfying! I also have to shoutout Perla because she made me laugh so much and I’m eagerly anticipating a romance between her and a certain character hopefully soon!!
Aflame absolutely delivers! With such unique world building and politics and characters, Roseanna M. White has me absolutely HOOKED and I am eagerly anticipating Amazed and hopefully many more stories to come!!!
Valkyrja is exactly the type of female character I want to see more of! She is powerful but compassionate and exactly the type of queen Fjordlandi ends up needing! I loved watching her journey from the weakest of her family to stepping into queenhood with grace and humility.
Nikanor was another fabulously written character and I loved him from the beginning! His faith was so strong and I loved how he taught Kyrja about the Giver and helped guide her in her new faith. Roseanna weaves such deep characters and faith threads and I love getting to know them through all their complexities and struggles.
The romance between Kyrja and Nik felt so sweet and natural, I loved their chemistry and connection that forms between them. And that ending?? So hard won and satisfying! I also have to shoutout Perla because she made me laugh so much and I’m eagerly anticipating a romance between her and a certain character hopefully soon!!
Aflame absolutely delivers! With such unique world building and politics and characters, Roseanna M. White has me absolutely HOOKED and I am eagerly anticipating Amazed and hopefully many more stories to come!!!
March 2, 2026
Aflame is one of those books I had to sit with for a bit before reviewing it. I admit skepticism about it because I didn't love Awakened, though I sorely wanted to. Aflame, however, is the perfect example of how much an author can grow inside her genre. Roseanna M. White blew me away.
I have said before that Roseanna builds amazing worlds, and Fjordlandi is no exception. The relationships between the thanes and Fjorders, the domes and the mainland, and the reputation of Mt. Helviti vs. its true purpose, are complex and fascinating. Yet they're handled in a straightforward manner, as if the reader is a true visitor to Fjordlandi and needs to know all this, but doesn't need her or his hand held. Thus, Fjordlandi became one of those settings, one of those worlds, where I could truly say, "I felt like I was inside."
The characters, of course, played a huge role in this feeling, too. I loved not only rooting for Kyrja, but also seeing her grow into her power and position. She's the mix of capable and vulnerable I see only in the best protagonists, particularly protagonists who must become leaders and voices for the people they love. Nik also carries this combination, but he does it with unique masculine flair. Plus, his place in a revolutionary family and the mysteries surrounding his past, make him so much more than Kyrja's necessary love interest. These two don't just have chemistry. They're not just building each other up after a lifetime of hearing they're useless or extraneous. I mean, they do these things, but more importantly, they are a team. They are equal partners and friends, co-strategists, and the best definition of deuterotagonists I've seen in a while.
Daemon and Elianne get this treatment as well. It's not the first time I've seen Roseanna work with a "beta couple," but it is her best example to date. Again, these characters' backgrounds and present situations blend beautifully to give them urgent, multifaceted arcs. The revelations about their relationships to other characters can get slightly complicated but in general, provide both great twists and layered motivations. Plus, the way these characters both work with and play off ice magic, lends surprising depth to Aflame's magic system.
Speaking of that magic system, I found it much easier to follow than the one in Awakened, so kudos there (although as I'll note later, that could change). I don't think I've seen an author pull off both a magic system that deals directly with elemental properties--fire, ice, water, wind, and so on--and almost seamless Christian-based threads. As I'll note below, this does get just a bit confusing at times. Mostly though, the union of magic system and spiritual threads is spot on for the kind of book Aflame is.
And yes, now, onto those spiritual threads. As noted, they can be a bit confusing based on the lore surrounding daemons and angels, who is and is not part of those groups, and how the Giver makes that work. I can see how some people might find this off-putting, as I saw one other reviewer note with Awakened. However, the followers of the Giver are crystal clear on who they worship and why, and what He did for them. As far as the angel and demon stuff, it seems like that is in line with not only what the Bible explicitly tells us, but how things *could* work in a fantasy realm. In other words, it works the way Narnia or Middle Earth do--we know Jesus is not a lion in our world. We know there is no One Ring, no orcs and elves and dwarves running around with their own theology. But if we keep in mind that these elements are fiction, meant to enhance the core message, they still work. Plus, the heart of the messages themselves: the Giver sacrificed His only-born for us, the Giver creates all good things and offers good gifts, the Giver raises who He will for certain times and people--these are still completely intact and completely encouraging.
One final note, which I want to make because this never happens: I loved Aflame so much that I want to give Awakened another chance. That in mind, I might have an updated review soon. Either way though, I'm still enchanted and blown away. I cannot wait for Roseanna to finish Amazed, especially considering her author's journey with that story. In the meantime, I exhort you to catch up on this series. And if you can't wait for more, do try The Imposters or The Codebreakers. They aren't fantasy, but they still have the same complex characters, strong spiritual threads, and adventurous edge.
I have said before that Roseanna builds amazing worlds, and Fjordlandi is no exception. The relationships between the thanes and Fjorders, the domes and the mainland, and the reputation of Mt. Helviti vs. its true purpose, are complex and fascinating. Yet they're handled in a straightforward manner, as if the reader is a true visitor to Fjordlandi and needs to know all this, but doesn't need her or his hand held. Thus, Fjordlandi became one of those settings, one of those worlds, where I could truly say, "I felt like I was inside."
The characters, of course, played a huge role in this feeling, too. I loved not only rooting for Kyrja, but also seeing her grow into her power and position. She's the mix of capable and vulnerable I see only in the best protagonists, particularly protagonists who must become leaders and voices for the people they love. Nik also carries this combination, but he does it with unique masculine flair. Plus, his place in a revolutionary family and the mysteries surrounding his past, make him so much more than Kyrja's necessary love interest. These two don't just have chemistry. They're not just building each other up after a lifetime of hearing they're useless or extraneous. I mean, they do these things, but more importantly, they are a team. They are equal partners and friends, co-strategists, and the best definition of deuterotagonists I've seen in a while.
Daemon and Elianne get this treatment as well. It's not the first time I've seen Roseanna work with a "beta couple," but it is her best example to date. Again, these characters' backgrounds and present situations blend beautifully to give them urgent, multifaceted arcs. The revelations about their relationships to other characters can get slightly complicated but in general, provide both great twists and layered motivations. Plus, the way these characters both work with and play off ice magic, lends surprising depth to Aflame's magic system.
Speaking of that magic system, I found it much easier to follow than the one in Awakened, so kudos there (although as I'll note later, that could change). I don't think I've seen an author pull off both a magic system that deals directly with elemental properties--fire, ice, water, wind, and so on--and almost seamless Christian-based threads. As I'll note below, this does get just a bit confusing at times. Mostly though, the union of magic system and spiritual threads is spot on for the kind of book Aflame is.
And yes, now, onto those spiritual threads. As noted, they can be a bit confusing based on the lore surrounding daemons and angels, who is and is not part of those groups, and how the Giver makes that work. I can see how some people might find this off-putting, as I saw one other reviewer note with Awakened. However, the followers of the Giver are crystal clear on who they worship and why, and what He did for them. As far as the angel and demon stuff, it seems like that is in line with not only what the Bible explicitly tells us, but how things *could* work in a fantasy realm. In other words, it works the way Narnia or Middle Earth do--we know Jesus is not a lion in our world. We know there is no One Ring, no orcs and elves and dwarves running around with their own theology. But if we keep in mind that these elements are fiction, meant to enhance the core message, they still work. Plus, the heart of the messages themselves: the Giver sacrificed His only-born for us, the Giver creates all good things and offers good gifts, the Giver raises who He will for certain times and people--these are still completely intact and completely encouraging.
One final note, which I want to make because this never happens: I loved Aflame so much that I want to give Awakened another chance. That in mind, I might have an updated review soon. Either way though, I'm still enchanted and blown away. I cannot wait for Roseanna to finish Amazed, especially considering her author's journey with that story. In the meantime, I exhort you to catch up on this series. And if you can't wait for more, do try The Imposters or The Codebreakers. They aren't fantasy, but they still have the same complex characters, strong spiritual threads, and adventurous edge.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Roseanna M. White is a phenomenal writer! Her novels are not only beautifully crafted stories, but they are also full of deep themes that resonate so well with our lives today. Every single one of her books challenges readers to grow in their understanding of who God is and who they are in light of Him—and Aflame, the second book in her Awakened series, is no exception.
In this novel, readers are introduced to Fjordlandi, a land of fire and ice and extremes, where those Blessed with magic control the snows and ice and those Cursed control the fires and lava of the island’s volcanoes. Set a century and a half after Seidon and Arden’s story chronicled in Awakened (the first book of the series), Aflame tells the tale of Princess Valkyrja, third-born daughter of the king, and Nikanor, a should-be-farmer who desires nothing more than to study the Words of the Giver or the law (though both are forbidden to commoners).
More than a mere romantic fantasy, this book invites readers to ponder who they are in Christ and how they will respond to the difficulties, trials, and hardships that assail them. Will they press in to the Savior, discovering the freedom that comes through surrender? Will they use their gifts for the glory of the Giver and the blessing of others? Will they choose faithful obedience to Elyon even—and especially—when the task before them seems impossible?
While there are many, many notable passages and quotes in Aflame, the following speak to the heart of the novel’s major themes of love and service, faith and freedom, and the sovereignty of God:
“My life is in the hands of the Giver. But I will help, however I’m able.”
“I ought to help as many as I can. That’s the whole point of the Blessing. . . .We exist to serve our people.”
“[F]aith not freely chosen is no faith at all.”
“The human mind will never fully grasp Elyon. It is the trying that matters. The seeking heart. . . .Seek him. That is all he requires of you.”
“Trust in Elyon…He is all you need.”
“Elyon’s will cannot be circumvented by your failings.”
“Elyon loves you with a soul-deep love. He loves you enough that he has sacrificed his only-born for you. He loves you enough that he let you choose whether to follow him, whether to believe, whether to put your hand in his—even you, who have so much raw potential in your veins.”
“Today, she wanted victory. The real kind, the kind that wasn’t about taking from someone else, but about building what was good.”
One final note: Until I read Aflame, I could not imagine that I would love any book in this series more than Awakened, but I absolutely adored Kyrja and Nik’s story! There is something about Aflame and the world of Fjordlandi that has completely captured my heart and imagination.
Roseanna M. White’s intricately detailed world-building is superb, and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for readers in Amazed and Alight, the final two novels in her Awakened series. And I do hope that we get to see more of Perla in future installments…
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
In this novel, readers are introduced to Fjordlandi, a land of fire and ice and extremes, where those Blessed with magic control the snows and ice and those Cursed control the fires and lava of the island’s volcanoes. Set a century and a half after Seidon and Arden’s story chronicled in Awakened (the first book of the series), Aflame tells the tale of Princess Valkyrja, third-born daughter of the king, and Nikanor, a should-be-farmer who desires nothing more than to study the Words of the Giver or the law (though both are forbidden to commoners).
More than a mere romantic fantasy, this book invites readers to ponder who they are in Christ and how they will respond to the difficulties, trials, and hardships that assail them. Will they press in to the Savior, discovering the freedom that comes through surrender? Will they use their gifts for the glory of the Giver and the blessing of others? Will they choose faithful obedience to Elyon even—and especially—when the task before them seems impossible?
While there are many, many notable passages and quotes in Aflame, the following speak to the heart of the novel’s major themes of love and service, faith and freedom, and the sovereignty of God:
“My life is in the hands of the Giver. But I will help, however I’m able.”
“I ought to help as many as I can. That’s the whole point of the Blessing. . . .We exist to serve our people.”
“[F]aith not freely chosen is no faith at all.”
“The human mind will never fully grasp Elyon. It is the trying that matters. The seeking heart. . . .Seek him. That is all he requires of you.”
“Trust in Elyon…He is all you need.”
“Elyon’s will cannot be circumvented by your failings.”
“Elyon loves you with a soul-deep love. He loves you enough that he has sacrificed his only-born for you. He loves you enough that he let you choose whether to follow him, whether to believe, whether to put your hand in his—even you, who have so much raw potential in your veins.”
“Today, she wanted victory. The real kind, the kind that wasn’t about taking from someone else, but about building what was good.”
One final note: Until I read Aflame, I could not imagine that I would love any book in this series more than Awakened, but I absolutely adored Kyrja and Nik’s story! There is something about Aflame and the world of Fjordlandi that has completely captured my heart and imagination.
Roseanna M. White’s intricately detailed world-building is superb, and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for readers in Amazed and Alight, the final two novels in her Awakened series. And I do hope that we get to see more of Perla in future installments…
FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What an amazing story! I absolutely LOVED Aflame by Roseanna M. White. This is the second book in her fantasy series, Awakened. A world where there are some people who can be "Awakened" with "magic" or power over a specific element. Powers that come from God.
(Spoiler warning, if you haven't read the first book yet, you may not want to read the next paragraph as I mention some spoilers)
In the first book, we were in the land of Daryatla where the sea king Seidon has power over the water and it is discovered that Arden, the woman who becomes his queen, has power over the wind. In Aflame we travel to another continent in this world a hundred and fifty years later. Though we don't see King Seidon or Queen Arden, one of their children plays an important role in the story.
In the land of Fjordlandi, there are different classes of people. The Blessed are the ones with power over the ice and snow. Then there are the Fjorders who live in the capital and can have the "important" jobs and a decent lives. Third, there are the Thanes, those who live under the domes and are treated almost as slaves, farming the land or working in the mines. And then there are those who are "cursed" and have been banished to the volcano. These handful of people have power over the lava and help keep the ring of volcanoes surrounding the land from destroying the land.
We get to see the story from four points of view. Princess Valkyrja, or Kyrja, is the third-born child of the king and his consort. She is seen as unimportant until a tragedy arises, changing the trajectory of her life. Nikanor, or Nik, is a lowly thane who has arrived in the capital with his friend who has is a bit of a fan boy of Princess Kyrja. The same tragedy that affects the princess also completely turns his life upside down. Daemon is the first of the "cursed" daemons who had been tossed into the volcano a hundred and fifty years earlier. He's lived his life thinking the lies told about those with power over the lava are true. Now he needs to rethink everything he knows. And finally, we also get to see the point of view of Elianne, another "cursed" who has a secret she's been keeping from the other cursed daemons.
The author really brings her characters to life, making the reader care deeply about them and what is happening to them. I love this world she has created, and loved seeing more of the world beyond Daryatla. And I love the twists that she weaves into the story creating a desire to continue reading to find out what is going to happen to our beloved characters. She also does a terrific job creating the villains in this series, in this book. There is romance, and adventure, and action, and faith. Characters who learn to trust in the Giver (known as the Triada to those in Daryatla) or grow in their faith and trust Him for their lives.
I also loved how the characters worked to get rid of the class segregation and form a united Fjordlandi.
Such a wonderful series and I can't wait for book three to release.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
(Spoiler warning, if you haven't read the first book yet, you may not want to read the next paragraph as I mention some spoilers)
In the first book, we were in the land of Daryatla where the sea king Seidon has power over the water and it is discovered that Arden, the woman who becomes his queen, has power over the wind. In Aflame we travel to another continent in this world a hundred and fifty years later. Though we don't see King Seidon or Queen Arden, one of their children plays an important role in the story.
In the land of Fjordlandi, there are different classes of people. The Blessed are the ones with power over the ice and snow. Then there are the Fjorders who live in the capital and can have the "important" jobs and a decent lives. Third, there are the Thanes, those who live under the domes and are treated almost as slaves, farming the land or working in the mines. And then there are those who are "cursed" and have been banished to the volcano. These handful of people have power over the lava and help keep the ring of volcanoes surrounding the land from destroying the land.
We get to see the story from four points of view. Princess Valkyrja, or Kyrja, is the third-born child of the king and his consort. She is seen as unimportant until a tragedy arises, changing the trajectory of her life. Nikanor, or Nik, is a lowly thane who has arrived in the capital with his friend who has is a bit of a fan boy of Princess Kyrja. The same tragedy that affects the princess also completely turns his life upside down. Daemon is the first of the "cursed" daemons who had been tossed into the volcano a hundred and fifty years earlier. He's lived his life thinking the lies told about those with power over the lava are true. Now he needs to rethink everything he knows. And finally, we also get to see the point of view of Elianne, another "cursed" who has a secret she's been keeping from the other cursed daemons.
The author really brings her characters to life, making the reader care deeply about them and what is happening to them. I love this world she has created, and loved seeing more of the world beyond Daryatla. And I love the twists that she weaves into the story creating a desire to continue reading to find out what is going to happen to our beloved characters. She also does a terrific job creating the villains in this series, in this book. There is romance, and adventure, and action, and faith. Characters who learn to trust in the Giver (known as the Triada to those in Daryatla) or grow in their faith and trust Him for their lives.
I also loved how the characters worked to get rid of the class segregation and form a united Fjordlandi.
Such a wonderful series and I can't wait for book three to release.
I received an e-copy of this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.
March 17, 2026
I absolutely loved Aflame by Roseanna M. White! I was just as good as Awakened, if not even better!
This series is what made me realize that I also love the fantasy genre (I’m mostly into historical or contemporary fiction). The worlds the author creates feel magically real. Just as Daryatla and the Sunken Kingdom captivated me in the first book, Fjordlandi and Mount Helviti -woven with ice and fire- are vivid, immersive, and unforgettable.
Honestly, her storytelling reminds me of the feeling I had when reading The Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings -fantasy that carries deep truths about faith, sacrifice, and good versus evil.
I fell in love with the characters, especially because the story is told through four points of view: Kyrja, Nik, Daemon, and Elliane.
Princess Valkyrja -Kyrja-‘s journey is beautiful. She begins as a seemingly overlooked princess, considered “pretty but useless,” yet grows into a strong, devoted, and righteous queen. Her love for her people, her willingness to sacrifice herself, and her discovery of the Giver (a representation of a loving and faithful God) make her incredibly moving.
Nikanor -Nic- completely stole my heart. A commoner with a mysterious past, he remains honorable, compassionate, and steadfast no matter what he faces. His identity may shift, but his character never does -and that’s what makes him so admirable. Truly one of my favorite heroes.
Daemon is more enigmatic, shaped by deep suffering and a life spent believing he was cursed. His brooding nature and inner conflict add so much depth to the story. And Elliane… full of mystery and surprises I won’t spoil, but fascinating as well.
It was also wonderful to revisit Perla from the first book -her vibrant, spontaneous personality adds light and contrast, especially alongside Daemon. I would love to see more of them in future books.
The plot is completely unputdownable. Just when things seem to settle, new twists arise that turn everything upside down. The tension between good and evil is constant, and the resolution is both powerful and deeply satisfying.
But what truly sets this story apart is the faith thread. It is woven so naturally into the narrative that it never feels forced. The Giver’s love, sacrifice, providence, and call to trust -even when we don’t understand- are portrayed with beauty and depth. The message is clear and meaningful, whether you approach it as a believer or simply as a reader seeking truth and hope.
This is a story of sacrifice, identity, redemption, and love -both human and divine.
I can’t wait for the next book, Amazed!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. I loved it so much that I purchased my own copy from the author’s shop, with the wonderful surprise that it has painted edges!
This series is what made me realize that I also love the fantasy genre (I’m mostly into historical or contemporary fiction). The worlds the author creates feel magically real. Just as Daryatla and the Sunken Kingdom captivated me in the first book, Fjordlandi and Mount Helviti -woven with ice and fire- are vivid, immersive, and unforgettable.
Honestly, her storytelling reminds me of the feeling I had when reading The Chronicles of Narnia or The Lord of the Rings -fantasy that carries deep truths about faith, sacrifice, and good versus evil.
I fell in love with the characters, especially because the story is told through four points of view: Kyrja, Nik, Daemon, and Elliane.
Princess Valkyrja -Kyrja-‘s journey is beautiful. She begins as a seemingly overlooked princess, considered “pretty but useless,” yet grows into a strong, devoted, and righteous queen. Her love for her people, her willingness to sacrifice herself, and her discovery of the Giver (a representation of a loving and faithful God) make her incredibly moving.
Nikanor -Nic- completely stole my heart. A commoner with a mysterious past, he remains honorable, compassionate, and steadfast no matter what he faces. His identity may shift, but his character never does -and that’s what makes him so admirable. Truly one of my favorite heroes.
Daemon is more enigmatic, shaped by deep suffering and a life spent believing he was cursed. His brooding nature and inner conflict add so much depth to the story. And Elliane… full of mystery and surprises I won’t spoil, but fascinating as well.
It was also wonderful to revisit Perla from the first book -her vibrant, spontaneous personality adds light and contrast, especially alongside Daemon. I would love to see more of them in future books.
The plot is completely unputdownable. Just when things seem to settle, new twists arise that turn everything upside down. The tension between good and evil is constant, and the resolution is both powerful and deeply satisfying.
But what truly sets this story apart is the faith thread. It is woven so naturally into the narrative that it never feels forced. The Giver’s love, sacrifice, providence, and call to trust -even when we don’t understand- are portrayed with beauty and depth. The message is clear and meaningful, whether you approach it as a believer or simply as a reader seeking truth and hope.
This is a story of sacrifice, identity, redemption, and love -both human and divine.
I can’t wait for the next book, Amazed!
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. I loved it so much that I purchased my own copy from the author’s shop, with the wonderful surprise that it has painted edges!
February 23, 2026
Ahh, all the love for this new romantasy from Roseanna M. White! I absolutely loved the first book in this series & fell just as hard for this second one. Fire & ice shape this new world in the Awakened universe, & Aflame completely drew me in. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Opposites attract, a new queen fighting to restore her kingdom, awakened abilities, & threats from within & without—it’s a race against time as Kyrja & Nik try to outwit her father & those determined to destroy their one chance at a new kingdom.
I loved this creative story! If you’ve read the first book, you’ll remember the sea & wind magic. This one takes place 150 years later & shifts to another continent where fire & ice clash, & a ruthless king rules with an iron fist. Told from multiple viewpoints, these endearing characters completely pulled me in.
Princess Valkyrja (Kyrja) is the third-born, dismissed as “pretty & useless” by her father & siblings. Nikanor (Nikk) is a thane, one of the farmers & miners who keep the kingdom running. Their fast friendship deepens after tragedy strikes & Kyrja becomes heir, forcing her to confront just how oppressive her father’s rule truly is. As she & Nik awaken powerful new abilities, they must build something better, a kingdom based on equality. Meanwhile, the Blessed who wield ice magic must reckon with the Cursed, fire-wielding Awakened who’ve secretly lived within the volcano, maintaining the fragile balance of Fjordlandi.
Daemon’s lived in the volcano for 150 years, & the arrival of a newcomer gives him hope of finally being seen as an equal. I loved his wounded-hero, gruff personality.
This book completely pulled me in! I adored meeting Perla, Daemon, Elianne, & Raf alongside Kyrja & Nik. The setting, so reminiscent of Iceland, was incredible. I could feel the icy cold, picture a land locked in frost, & almost feel the heat of molten lava from the volcano. The contrast & imagery were beautifully done. The sizzling chemistry & sweet romance between Kyrja & Nik was so good. And I loved the subtle faith thread, the themes and allusions to God through The Giver, woven seamlessly throughout.
Highly recommend this must-read romantasy filled with twists & turns. Can’t wait for the next book in the series! Aflame can easily be read as a standalone but is even more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books in the series. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
I loved this creative story! If you’ve read the first book, you’ll remember the sea & wind magic. This one takes place 150 years later & shifts to another continent where fire & ice clash, & a ruthless king rules with an iron fist. Told from multiple viewpoints, these endearing characters completely pulled me in.
Princess Valkyrja (Kyrja) is the third-born, dismissed as “pretty & useless” by her father & siblings. Nikanor (Nikk) is a thane, one of the farmers & miners who keep the kingdom running. Their fast friendship deepens after tragedy strikes & Kyrja becomes heir, forcing her to confront just how oppressive her father’s rule truly is. As she & Nik awaken powerful new abilities, they must build something better, a kingdom based on equality. Meanwhile, the Blessed who wield ice magic must reckon with the Cursed, fire-wielding Awakened who’ve secretly lived within the volcano, maintaining the fragile balance of Fjordlandi.
Daemon’s lived in the volcano for 150 years, & the arrival of a newcomer gives him hope of finally being seen as an equal. I loved his wounded-hero, gruff personality.
This book completely pulled me in! I adored meeting Perla, Daemon, Elianne, & Raf alongside Kyrja & Nik. The setting, so reminiscent of Iceland, was incredible. I could feel the icy cold, picture a land locked in frost, & almost feel the heat of molten lava from the volcano. The contrast & imagery were beautifully done. The sizzling chemistry & sweet romance between Kyrja & Nik was so good. And I loved the subtle faith thread, the themes and allusions to God through The Giver, woven seamlessly throughout.
Highly recommend this must-read romantasy filled with twists & turns. Can’t wait for the next book in the series! Aflame can easily be read as a standalone but is even more enjoyable if you’ve read the previous books in the series. I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
February 18, 2026
Awakened fans unite! Book two in Roseanna White’s Awakened series is finally here, and it’s breathtaking! White’s storytelling abilities are absolutely arresting and will leave you wanting more.
Follow four new characters as they journey through the discovery of their gifts - snow and ice, fire and heat. If you’re a fan of plot twists, this book will have you bouncing in your seat with excitement as chapter after chapter will leave you gasping in surprise and unable to put it down.
I loved these characters just as much as those in the first book, and I especially appreciated the many tie-ins to the events and beloved characters of Awakened in this novel. Though Aflame could be read as a standalone novel, I highly recommend reading Awakened first as it provides a lot of background and additional context that’s helpful to understanding the somewhat-complex storyline.
If you enjoy it as much as I did, you’ll be left wanting book three, Amazed (coming…???), ASAP!! And you can bet it will be at the top of my TBR when it comes out!
A side note: there is a part of the book where a character asks whether her family members who did not acknowledge God while they were alive would go to (the Aflame’s version of) Heaven. The response in the book is essentially a maybe. Because this is a series based on Biblical foundations and contains a fictional representation of a real God and a real Heaven, I wanted to share that the Biblical truth is never a maybe. God sent Jesus, His Son, to live a life free of sin and to die for the sake of humanity’s salvation if only we will accept His willing gift. When we acknowledge that Jesus is God, has died for our shortcomings, and has risen again and lives today, we can be sure of our salvation and can know that we will one day be in Heaven. It’s such an easy thing, and yet it requires humility, repentance, and belief. We are given the chance to make Jesus our Lord while we are on this earth. We are also given the edict to tell those around us about Jesus so that all may hear His good news and begin a relationship with Him. There is no maybe about it; the Bible offers surety of what awaits us after death.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are entirely my own.
Follow four new characters as they journey through the discovery of their gifts - snow and ice, fire and heat. If you’re a fan of plot twists, this book will have you bouncing in your seat with excitement as chapter after chapter will leave you gasping in surprise and unable to put it down.
I loved these characters just as much as those in the first book, and I especially appreciated the many tie-ins to the events and beloved characters of Awakened in this novel. Though Aflame could be read as a standalone novel, I highly recommend reading Awakened first as it provides a lot of background and additional context that’s helpful to understanding the somewhat-complex storyline.
If you enjoy it as much as I did, you’ll be left wanting book three, Amazed (coming…???), ASAP!! And you can bet it will be at the top of my TBR when it comes out!
A side note: there is a part of the book where a character asks whether her family members who did not acknowledge God while they were alive would go to (the Aflame’s version of) Heaven. The response in the book is essentially a maybe. Because this is a series based on Biblical foundations and contains a fictional representation of a real God and a real Heaven, I wanted to share that the Biblical truth is never a maybe. God sent Jesus, His Son, to live a life free of sin and to die for the sake of humanity’s salvation if only we will accept His willing gift. When we acknowledge that Jesus is God, has died for our shortcomings, and has risen again and lives today, we can be sure of our salvation and can know that we will one day be in Heaven. It’s such an easy thing, and yet it requires humility, repentance, and belief. We are given the chance to make Jesus our Lord while we are on this earth. We are also given the edict to tell those around us about Jesus so that all may hear His good news and begin a relationship with Him. There is no maybe about it; the Bible offers surety of what awaits us after death.
I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are entirely my own.
April 24, 2026
At first, this was a solid five-star, but the final few chapters confused me a bit, so I'm going with a 4.75-star rating until I get the audiobook and re-read this as an immersive read.
Some sequels continue a story…and then there are the ones that deepen, stretch, and set it ablaze. Aflame is absolutely the latter.
From the very beginning, I was pulled right back into this world with ease. The transition from Awakened felt seamless, but what truly stood out is how much richer everything became. The world-building didn’t just expand, it intensified. Every layer felt more alive, more intentional, and more immersive. You could feel the shift in the world from the mer kingdom and world of water to the coldness of ice and the warmth of volcanoes.
The characters? Beautifully written. They felt real, complex, and deeply rooted in both their struggles and their growth. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, especially as the stakes grew higher and the tension deepened. There’s a sincerity to their development that makes you not just read their story, but feel it.
For me, one of the strongest elements of Aflame is how the characters truly come alive and carry the weight of the story in such a meaningful way.
Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling character because of her inner tension. She isn’t just navigating external conflict; she’s wrestling with identity, responsibility, and what it truly means to walk in truth. Her strength isn’t loud or one-dimensional; it’s layered with vulnerability, conviction, and growth. Watching her step more fully into who she’s meant to be was one of the most rewarding parts of the story. There’s a quiet fire in her that mirrors the deeper spiritual themes of the book.
Nikanor brings a depth that balances strength with humility. His journey feels grounded and sincere, especially in how he processes faith, duty, and love. There’s something very steady about him, but not in a stagnant way; more like a foundation you can trust. His interactions, especially with Valkyrja, feel genuine and layered, and you can see how his character continues to be refined under pressure.
The Cursed, such as Daemon and Elianna, add such a haunting and powerful dimension to the story. They’re not just antagonistic forces; they represent brokenness, consequence, and the lingering effects of choices and corruption. What stood out to me is how they aren’t portrayed as flat villains. There’s complexity there that makes you think deeper about redemption, loss, and what it means to be truly restored. They carry both tension and tragedy. Even the fact that they are called Cursed when they are much more than that says so much about who they are as people.
The Ice King is a presence. Every time he’s on the page, you feel it and get irritated to the core. He’s not just powerful, he’s chilling in a way that goes beyond physical threat. There’s a symbolic weight to him that ties into the broader themes of the story: control, coldness, and opposition to truth and light. He raises the stakes in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal.
Altogether, these characters don’t just move the plot forward; they embody the heart of the story. Each one reflects a different aspect of the book’s deeper themes, especially faith, identity, and transformation. That’s what makes Aflame feel so rich; it’s not just a story you read, it’s one you experience through the lives of its characters.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the faith system is woven so naturally into the narrative. It doesn’t feel forced or surface-level. Instead, it carries weight. It challenges, it refines, and it speaks into the characters’ decisions in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Starting off as a half-athiest kingdom and seeing them grow into the faith was so well done and fleshed out amazingly. I loved it.
And the magic system? Absolutely captivating. It’s structured, unique, and beautifully integrated into the world itself. Nothing felt random; everything had purpose, which made the story even more compelling.
Honestly, I loved just about everything about this book; the pacing, the atmosphere, the emotional depth, and the way it builds anticipation for what’s to come. If Awakened drew me in, Aflame anchored me there.
This was an incredible follow-up, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next in book three, Amazed.
Some sequels continue a story…and then there are the ones that deepen, stretch, and set it ablaze. Aflame is absolutely the latter.
From the very beginning, I was pulled right back into this world with ease. The transition from Awakened felt seamless, but what truly stood out is how much richer everything became. The world-building didn’t just expand, it intensified. Every layer felt more alive, more intentional, and more immersive. You could feel the shift in the world from the mer kingdom and world of water to the coldness of ice and the warmth of volcanoes.
The characters? Beautifully written. They felt real, complex, and deeply rooted in both their struggles and their growth. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys, especially as the stakes grew higher and the tension deepened. There’s a sincerity to their development that makes you not just read their story, but feel it.
For me, one of the strongest elements of Aflame is how the characters truly come alive and carry the weight of the story in such a meaningful way.
Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling character because of her inner tension. She isn’t just navigating external conflict; she’s wrestling with identity, responsibility, and what it truly means to walk in truth. Her strength isn’t loud or one-dimensional; it’s layered with vulnerability, conviction, and growth. Watching her step more fully into who she’s meant to be was one of the most rewarding parts of the story. There’s a quiet fire in her that mirrors the deeper spiritual themes of the book.
Nikanor brings a depth that balances strength with humility. His journey feels grounded and sincere, especially in how he processes faith, duty, and love. There’s something very steady about him, but not in a stagnant way; more like a foundation you can trust. His interactions, especially with Valkyrja, feel genuine and layered, and you can see how his character continues to be refined under pressure.
The Cursed, such as Daemon and Elianna, add such a haunting and powerful dimension to the story. They’re not just antagonistic forces; they represent brokenness, consequence, and the lingering effects of choices and corruption. What stood out to me is how they aren’t portrayed as flat villains. There’s complexity there that makes you think deeper about redemption, loss, and what it means to be truly restored. They carry both tension and tragedy. Even the fact that they are called Cursed when they are much more than that says so much about who they are as people.
The Ice King is a presence. Every time he’s on the page, you feel it and get irritated to the core. He’s not just powerful, he’s chilling in a way that goes beyond physical threat. There’s a symbolic weight to him that ties into the broader themes of the story: control, coldness, and opposition to truth and light. He raises the stakes in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal.
Altogether, these characters don’t just move the plot forward; they embody the heart of the story. Each one reflects a different aspect of the book’s deeper themes, especially faith, identity, and transformation. That’s what makes Aflame feel so rich; it’s not just a story you read, it’s one you experience through the lives of its characters.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how the faith system is woven so naturally into the narrative. It doesn’t feel forced or surface-level. Instead, it carries weight. It challenges, it refines, and it speaks into the characters’ decisions in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Starting off as a half-athiest kingdom and seeing them grow into the faith was so well done and fleshed out amazingly. I loved it.
And the magic system? Absolutely captivating. It’s structured, unique, and beautifully integrated into the world itself. Nothing felt random; everything had purpose, which made the story even more compelling.
Honestly, I loved just about everything about this book; the pacing, the atmosphere, the emotional depth, and the way it builds anticipation for what’s to come. If Awakened drew me in, Aflame anchored me there.
This was an incredible follow-up, and I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next in book three, Amazed.
June 10, 2026
Ahhh what a fun and unexpected gem this was!!
There are many things I love and enjoy in this world, not the least of which is fantasy novels with mature relationships, great world building, and elemental magic. This book had all three and more.
Often, I find books with multiple perspectives to be boring—I find there’s always at least one POV that I dislike. Not so in this novel! For whether I was reading from Nik’s perspective, or Valkyrja’s (a moment of silence for that metal-ahh name), or Daemon’s, or Elian’s (forgive the name spellings—I audiobooked it), I was hooked.
Valkyria was a great protagonist. She felt real and intricate, and her relationship with Nikanor was delightful to read. Both Kyrja and Nik were mature, healthy (within reason) adults who supported, grounded, and loved one another well. I appreciated how the drama was not built up forever, but the relationship progressed naturally. It was sweet.
I enjoyed the worldbuilding too. It was clear to me that Roseanna M. White has considered thoroughly her story and the world it takes place in. Care was given to the world building, and it transported you straight to Fjordlandi and beyond.
Finally, the way White incorporated Christian themes into this novel was done with such care and nuance. I loved watching Kyrja, Nik, and the others interacting with their faith, and the way that religious themes impacted the worldbuilding!
My main critique is the slight lack of consistency in Isadore’s motives and actions. In a lot of ways, he was a rather cartoonish antagonist, evil and angry for the sake of it. I would have loved to see more development for his character.
All-in-all, Aflame is a captivating elemental fantasy with mature, no-spice romance, immersive world building, and believable characters. I look forward to reading more of this series in the future!
(Special thanks to NetGalley and Roseanna M. White for the audio eARC!!)
There are many things I love and enjoy in this world, not the least of which is fantasy novels with mature relationships, great world building, and elemental magic. This book had all three and more.
Often, I find books with multiple perspectives to be boring—I find there’s always at least one POV that I dislike. Not so in this novel! For whether I was reading from Nik’s perspective, or Valkyrja’s (a moment of silence for that metal-ahh name), or Daemon’s, or Elian’s (forgive the name spellings—I audiobooked it), I was hooked.
Valkyria was a great protagonist. She felt real and intricate, and her relationship with Nikanor was delightful to read. Both Kyrja and Nik were mature, healthy (within reason) adults who supported, grounded, and loved one another well. I appreciated how the drama was not built up forever, but the relationship progressed naturally. It was sweet.
I enjoyed the worldbuilding too. It was clear to me that Roseanna M. White has considered thoroughly her story and the world it takes place in. Care was given to the world building, and it transported you straight to Fjordlandi and beyond.
Finally, the way White incorporated Christian themes into this novel was done with such care and nuance. I loved watching Kyrja, Nik, and the others interacting with their faith, and the way that religious themes impacted the worldbuilding!
My main critique is the slight lack of consistency in Isadore’s motives and actions. In a lot of ways, he was a rather cartoonish antagonist, evil and angry for the sake of it. I would have loved to see more development for his character.
All-in-all, Aflame is a captivating elemental fantasy with mature, no-spice romance, immersive world building, and believable characters. I look forward to reading more of this series in the future!
(Special thanks to NetGalley and Roseanna M. White for the audio eARC!!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. Roseanna has written another AMAZING fantasy story. I don't think my words will be able to do it justice, but I'm trying anyway.
The world-building was so smooth and creative. It's woven into the narrative so seamlessly that you hardly even notice it. But it's also impressively intricate. Like I said, I don't even have the words.
There was lots of interesting political intrigue involving corrupt government, new power, and treaties with other kingdoms. Everything that was going on had me on the edge of my seat, desperately hoping Kyrja would get her happy ending.
The romance was delightfully swoony. At first I couldn't tell who was going to end up with who since there are four POVs, so I'm not going to use any names and spoil it for you. The opposites-attract romance was one of the sweetest ever. I loved how supportive he was of her. Their relationship develops kind of quickly but it is not without its difficult hurdles. The other romance was more on the side, so there are only hints and lots is left in the air for a future book. I'm excited to see which direction it goes.
I loved that this whole story was overflowing with faith. There wasn't just one thread, there was a whole tapestry. It can be considered allegory since different words are used, but it's all so clear that you can tell they're talking about the real thing. I liked seeing the hero's devotion to God encourage Kyrja in her own faith journey. It was amazing to see her really lean on God throughout the turmoil of what she was going through.
There is so much more I could say, as there are many parts to this tale which I enjoyed, but I'll leave it there and let you read it for yourself.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The world-building was so smooth and creative. It's woven into the narrative so seamlessly that you hardly even notice it. But it's also impressively intricate. Like I said, I don't even have the words.
There was lots of interesting political intrigue involving corrupt government, new power, and treaties with other kingdoms. Everything that was going on had me on the edge of my seat, desperately hoping Kyrja would get her happy ending.
The romance was delightfully swoony. At first I couldn't tell who was going to end up with who since there are four POVs, so I'm not going to use any names and spoil it for you. The opposites-attract romance was one of the sweetest ever. I loved how supportive he was of her. Their relationship develops kind of quickly but it is not without its difficult hurdles. The other romance was more on the side, so there are only hints and lots is left in the air for a future book. I'm excited to see which direction it goes.
I loved that this whole story was overflowing with faith. There wasn't just one thread, there was a whole tapestry. It can be considered allegory since different words are used, but it's all so clear that you can tell they're talking about the real thing. I liked seeing the hero's devotion to God encourage Kyrja in her own faith journey. It was amazing to see her really lean on God throughout the turmoil of what she was going through.
There is so much more I could say, as there are many parts to this tale which I enjoyed, but I'll leave it there and let you read it for yourself.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
How to pen a review for a book that has left me with the largest book hangover I have ever felt? Difficult, to say the least. I have been a longtime fan of Roseanna White's historical fiction, which she writes very well, but she has since proved how extremely gifted she is as she expands her skills to the fantasy genre. That is the power of story and the power of the pen when a talent is used to glorify the Creator.
With vivid world-building and an excellent paced and engaging plot, readers will be drawn to the land of the Aflamed. A land of ice and fire. With heroes and villains, good versus evil, lovers of fantasy literature will appreciate the cinematic descriptions of the setting and the battles. The characters are sharply-etched and relatable. I love the way the story is told from several POV. Ms. White skillfully draws her heroes and heroines, describing their motivations and fears, their flaws and their strengths, as they leap from obscurity to lead, uniting in a fight against evil. I loved them all, Kyrja and Nik, Daemon and Elliane. Their individual journeys of faith, in seeking to understand Elyon, his love and will gives them a purpose above their own.
I did not think I would like any book as much as I liked the first book in the series, but I was mistaken. This is a beautifully crafted story and I eagerly await future installments in the series. Hopefully we will continue to have a peek into the lives of characters I have come to love.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
With vivid world-building and an excellent paced and engaging plot, readers will be drawn to the land of the Aflamed. A land of ice and fire. With heroes and villains, good versus evil, lovers of fantasy literature will appreciate the cinematic descriptions of the setting and the battles. The characters are sharply-etched and relatable. I love the way the story is told from several POV. Ms. White skillfully draws her heroes and heroines, describing their motivations and fears, their flaws and their strengths, as they leap from obscurity to lead, uniting in a fight against evil. I loved them all, Kyrja and Nik, Daemon and Elliane. Their individual journeys of faith, in seeking to understand Elyon, his love and will gives them a purpose above their own.
I did not think I would like any book as much as I liked the first book in the series, but I was mistaken. This is a beautifully crafted story and I eagerly await future installments in the series. Hopefully we will continue to have a peek into the lives of characters I have come to love.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 18, 2026
Another amazing journey to this new world Roseanna White has skillfully brought to life. This new story moves the reader to a new land and people group, known for their control of ice and snow. With Iceland inspired beauty and detail, Fjordlandi springs to life off the pages that contain this wonderful setting. The reader can easily hear the voices of each character as they share this story. The depth they are written with pulls the reader into the book, caring and worrying the same as for a close friend, Each new success, struggle, or set back weaves into a story that doesn't let go until well after the book is done.
I love how faith is so deeply woven into each element of the story that it is the base everything is built on. Just as the characters learn and live through this part of their lives. I also love the royal point of view shared by Princess Valkyrja. Not flashy but based on service and care. With great banter, danger, twists and unexpected turns during the story, and a slow burn romance I loved every piece of this book. The fantasy aspect helps take this amazing book a step farther.
Roseanna White has outdone herself with this new book. I am so excited for book 3 in this series! The wait is going to be hard! Grab this book now and settle in for an amazing journey. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love how faith is so deeply woven into each element of the story that it is the base everything is built on. Just as the characters learn and live through this part of their lives. I also love the royal point of view shared by Princess Valkyrja. Not flashy but based on service and care. With great banter, danger, twists and unexpected turns during the story, and a slow burn romance I loved every piece of this book. The fantasy aspect helps take this amazing book a step farther.
Roseanna White has outdone herself with this new book. I am so excited for book 3 in this series! The wait is going to be hard! Grab this book now and settle in for an amazing journey. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 10, 2026
If you haven’t started Roseanna M. White’s Awakened series yet, what are you waiting for?
Aflame is a brilliant second book — the new characters are so easy to love, and it’s such a treat seeing characters from the first book show up too. Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling lead — written off by her family as “pretty and useless,” she’s so much more than that, and watching her discover her own strength throughout the story is really satisfying. Nikanor is a wonderful match for her too — a humble, grounded commoner just trying to make something of himself, who gets thrown into a world way bigger than he ever expected. Their dynamic is warm and natural, and you’re rooting for them from the start.
The world-building is incredible — a land of fire and ice where love is seen as a weakness feels like such a rich backdrop, and Roseanna uses every bit of it. There are twists and turns you won’t see coming that keep the pages turning.
Honestly, don’t start this one if you have things to do, because you won’t want to stop reading! She handles romance, faith, and action so naturally — it never feels forced, it just flows.
An amazing read that’ll have you desperate for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Aflame is a brilliant second book — the new characters are so easy to love, and it’s such a treat seeing characters from the first book show up too. Princess Valkyrja is such a compelling lead — written off by her family as “pretty and useless,” she’s so much more than that, and watching her discover her own strength throughout the story is really satisfying. Nikanor is a wonderful match for her too — a humble, grounded commoner just trying to make something of himself, who gets thrown into a world way bigger than he ever expected. Their dynamic is warm and natural, and you’re rooting for them from the start.
The world-building is incredible — a land of fire and ice where love is seen as a weakness feels like such a rich backdrop, and Roseanna uses every bit of it. There are twists and turns you won’t see coming that keep the pages turning.
Honestly, don’t start this one if you have things to do, because you won’t want to stop reading! She handles romance, faith, and action so naturally — it never feels forced, it just flows.
An amazing read that’ll have you desperate for the next book in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
March 16, 2026
One of my favorite things to do after reading a new book that I thoroughly enjoyed is going back and re-reading some of my favorite parts. Once I finished Aflame by Roseanna M. White I started flipping back to my favorite scenes, quickly realizing that I was going to basically re-read the entire book. Aflame exceeded my expectations, leaving me anxious for the continued story in the upcoming third book in the Awakened series.....which is soon to be announced! I already cannot wait! If you are looking for a wholesome and richly written story with an excellent plot and deep character arcs, then pick up your copy of Aflame and enjoy!
For fans of Ms. White it is no surprise that Aflame brings readers an adventurous tale filled with excellent themes and life lessons. The new magic of fire and ice is explored in this book with many surprises and plot twists. I enjoyed the extremes and the differing ways each character's qualities and struggles were expressed with their specific gifts. Aflame brings readers thoughtful themes of choosing integrity and truth over family loyalty, rekindled faith and forgiveness, as well as how godly and strong leaders live. I appreciate how Ms. White creates a rich world full of history, well-developed characters, languages and cultures along with a deep storyline
Princess Valkyrja captured my heart with her genuineness, humility, and desire to have a true family and to be truly loved, not just used for her abilities. Reading through Valkyrja's griefs, doubts, and learning curves reminded me that a talented author can use fictional works to teach, encourage, and challenge her readers, leaving impacts beyond just an entertaining thought. I loved the intricate play of the ideological and practical struggle to overcome past injustices and create a more free and fair society in the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Ms. White uses this fantasy setting to explore basic human issues like fair treatment of citizens, civic issues of representation, and just punishment and legal proceedings. I appreciated how Ms. White didn't slide past the difficult parts, but made it into part of the story.
I particularly noticed the emphasis in this book on the Giver of the gifts, instead of each character's strengths and weaknesses. Each character wielding other-worldly magic was brought to realize that their gifts weren't of their own power, but all originating from their Creator. I appreciated the consistent theme of God and seeking His guidance, wisdom, and deliverance through prayer. Aflame was a very intriguing, entertaining, thoughtful, and extremely well-written book that will have to be kept in my top books for 2026. I highly recommend Aflame and sincerely hope that you take the opportunity to pick up a copy for yourself and dive into this wonderful adventure! Happy readings!
Disclaimer: White Crown Publishing graciously provided me with a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.
For fans of Ms. White it is no surprise that Aflame brings readers an adventurous tale filled with excellent themes and life lessons. The new magic of fire and ice is explored in this book with many surprises and plot twists. I enjoyed the extremes and the differing ways each character's qualities and struggles were expressed with their specific gifts. Aflame brings readers thoughtful themes of choosing integrity and truth over family loyalty, rekindled faith and forgiveness, as well as how godly and strong leaders live. I appreciate how Ms. White creates a rich world full of history, well-developed characters, languages and cultures along with a deep storyline
Princess Valkyrja captured my heart with her genuineness, humility, and desire to have a true family and to be truly loved, not just used for her abilities. Reading through Valkyrja's griefs, doubts, and learning curves reminded me that a talented author can use fictional works to teach, encourage, and challenge her readers, leaving impacts beyond just an entertaining thought. I loved the intricate play of the ideological and practical struggle to overcome past injustices and create a more free and fair society in the kingdom of Fjordlandi. Ms. White uses this fantasy setting to explore basic human issues like fair treatment of citizens, civic issues of representation, and just punishment and legal proceedings. I appreciated how Ms. White didn't slide past the difficult parts, but made it into part of the story.
I particularly noticed the emphasis in this book on the Giver of the gifts, instead of each character's strengths and weaknesses. Each character wielding other-worldly magic was brought to realize that their gifts weren't of their own power, but all originating from their Creator. I appreciated the consistent theme of God and seeking His guidance, wisdom, and deliverance through prayer. Aflame was a very intriguing, entertaining, thoughtful, and extremely well-written book that will have to be kept in my top books for 2026. I highly recommend Aflame and sincerely hope that you take the opportunity to pick up a copy for yourself and dive into this wonderful adventure! Happy readings!
Disclaimer: White Crown Publishing graciously provided me with a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.
March 17, 2026
I'm a long-time reader of her historical fiction, but Roseanna M. White's venture into fantasy has introduced me to a new genre. I don't normally read fantasy, but I've been converted!
I admit that the twists, turns, and fantastical action were at first confusing, but the emotions weren't. Princess Valkyrja's low self-esteem and her longing for her father's approval were normal reactions of a rejected daughter. And then, there's the romance! The strong feelings between Kyrja and Nikanor once again proved White's ability to write romance that is clean but oh, so breathtaking! Aflame has the tagline romantasy and this is exactly what it is!
This is the second book in a series, but I wasn't distracted because I hadn't read the first. Aflame has introduced me to a world of fantasy while remaining true to White's inspirational fiction. I look forward to reading the next books in this Awakened series!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteCrown Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I invite you to visit my blog for my full review. https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
I admit that the twists, turns, and fantastical action were at first confusing, but the emotions weren't. Princess Valkyrja's low self-esteem and her longing for her father's approval were normal reactions of a rejected daughter. And then, there's the romance! The strong feelings between Kyrja and Nikanor once again proved White's ability to write romance that is clean but oh, so breathtaking! Aflame has the tagline romantasy and this is exactly what it is!
This is the second book in a series, but I wasn't distracted because I hadn't read the first. Aflame has introduced me to a world of fantasy while remaining true to White's inspirational fiction. I look forward to reading the next books in this Awakened series!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteCrown Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
I invite you to visit my blog for my full review. https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
June 21, 2026
I ended up enjoying Aflame more than the first book in this series. The combination of elemental magic, political intrigue, and faith-filled themes made it such an engaging story. The worldbuilding felt even richer this time around, and I loved the contrast between the ice-blessed kingdom and the fire-wielding Cursed.
Kyrja was an easy character to root for. After spending her life being dismissed as "pretty and useless," watching her step into her own strength was incredibly satisfying. I also really enjoyed her relationship with Nikanor. Their romance was sweet, supportive, and refreshingly mature.
The multiple POVs kept the story moving, and I found myself invested in both the characters and the growing political tensions. I also appreciated how naturally the faith elements were woven into the story.
I listened to this on audio, and Frances Anderson did a wonderful job with the narration. Her performance added a lot of emotion to the story and made it easy to stay immersed.
If you enjoy fantasy with elemental magic, strong character growth, clean romance, and meaningful faith themes, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Roseanna M. White, Tantor Media, and NetGalley for the ALC.
Kyrja was an easy character to root for. After spending her life being dismissed as "pretty and useless," watching her step into her own strength was incredibly satisfying. I also really enjoyed her relationship with Nikanor. Their romance was sweet, supportive, and refreshingly mature.
The multiple POVs kept the story moving, and I found myself invested in both the characters and the growing political tensions. I also appreciated how naturally the faith elements were woven into the story.
I listened to this on audio, and Frances Anderson did a wonderful job with the narration. Her performance added a lot of emotion to the story and made it easy to stay immersed.
If you enjoy fantasy with elemental magic, strong character growth, clean romance, and meaningful faith themes, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Roseanna M. White, Tantor Media, and NetGalley for the ALC.
March 8, 2026
I can't believe the Awakened series is a completely new genre for this talented writer. It is written absolutely brilliantly.
Aflame is the second full novel in the Awakened series, and even though it plays off several years after Awakened and in a different country, we do still hear about the much-loved King Seidon, Arden, and their family from Awakened.
Aflame has some new royals, with new powers, and lots of intrigue. There are several twists that I did not see coming, and I enjoyed the book thoroughly; in fact, I struggled to put it down.
Come and follow the journey of Princess Valkyrja and Nikanor of Fjordlandi, and see how they grow in their purpose and love. I also enjoyed getting to know Princess Perla better and would love to see her have her own novella.
If you love a clean fantasy with some spiritual depth, humorous moments, interesting characters, and even some action, then I would highly recommend Aflame. I also recommend reading Awakened before Aflame, although both can be read as standalone novels.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but the views and opinions are my own.
Aflame is the second full novel in the Awakened series, and even though it plays off several years after Awakened and in a different country, we do still hear about the much-loved King Seidon, Arden, and their family from Awakened.
Aflame has some new royals, with new powers, and lots of intrigue. There are several twists that I did not see coming, and I enjoyed the book thoroughly; in fact, I struggled to put it down.
Come and follow the journey of Princess Valkyrja and Nikanor of Fjordlandi, and see how they grow in their purpose and love. I also enjoyed getting to know Princess Perla better and would love to see her have her own novella.
If you love a clean fantasy with some spiritual depth, humorous moments, interesting characters, and even some action, then I would highly recommend Aflame. I also recommend reading Awakened before Aflame, although both can be read as standalone novels.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but the views and opinions are my own.
March 17, 2026
Loved this next installment in this romantasy series! I love that we got mentions of people and places from book 1, but more I enjoyed how completely different this book was from its predecessor. I loved the new terrain, the new magic, the new challenges our MC's had to face. I thought the magic system in this book (and book 1 by extension) was very unique and it was cool to see all the elements of faith intermingled with a fantasy book.
Nik was such a good, strong MMC - he was strong both physically and mentally, but willing to let Kyrja lead and had no problem with it. Kyrja herself was very sweet. I liked seeing her come into her own strength after a life of being put down by so many people close to her. I really enjoyed the combination of fire and ice magics and seeing how they could work together despite having such obvious differences.
Cannot wait to read book 3 now! I'm very much looking forward to the more (at least seemingly) morally gray character that is to come as a main character and their arc.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteCrown Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Nik was such a good, strong MMC - he was strong both physically and mentally, but willing to let Kyrja lead and had no problem with it. Kyrja herself was very sweet. I liked seeing her come into her own strength after a life of being put down by so many people close to her. I really enjoyed the combination of fire and ice magics and seeing how they could work together despite having such obvious differences.
Cannot wait to read book 3 now! I'm very much looking forward to the more (at least seemingly) morally gray character that is to come as a main character and their arc.
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of WhiteCrown Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
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