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Abiassa's Fire #1
Embers
He's coming for them. And the kingdom.
Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar are royal heirs of the Nine Kingdoms, but Haegan is physically crippled. What chance does he have against Poired Dyrth, the greatest enemy the kingdom has ever faced, who wields fire with a power none can match?
Their only hope is forbidden: Kaelyria must transfer her fire-harnessing abilities to Haegan. When she does it comes with a terrible price: Haegan’s disability is healed, but only by being transferred to Kaelyria. This decision causes their father, King Zireli, to unleash his wrath against Haegan.
Haegan flees the kingdom alone with two impossible tasks: Find a cure for Kaelyria and stop the coming war with the omnipotent Poired Dyrth.
Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar are royal heirs of the Nine Kingdoms, but Haegan is physically crippled. What chance does he have against Poired Dyrth, the greatest enemy the kingdom has ever faced, who wields fire with a power none can match?
Their only hope is forbidden: Kaelyria must transfer her fire-harnessing abilities to Haegan. When she does it comes with a terrible price: Haegan’s disability is healed, but only by being transferred to Kaelyria. This decision causes their father, King Zireli, to unleash his wrath against Haegan.
Haegan flees the kingdom alone with two impossible tasks: Find a cure for Kaelyria and stop the coming war with the omnipotent Poired Dyrth.
432 pages, Paperback
First published October 16, 2015
39 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Ronie Kendig
67 books1,254 followersRonie Kendig is a bestselling, award-winning author of over forty books. She grew up an Army brat, and now she and her Army-veteran husband have returned to their beloved Texas after a nearly ten-year stint on the East Coast. They survive on Sonic runs, barbecue, and peach cobbler that they share--sometimes--with Benning the Stealth Golden and AAndromeda the #mwdwashout. Ronie's degree in psychology has helped her pen novels of intense, raw characters.
Since launching onto the publishing scene, Ronie’s Rapid-Fire Fiction has hit the CBA Bestseller List, won the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, Realm Award, Alliance Award, back-to-back RT Reviewers' Choice Awards, the HOLT Medallion, the IRCA, and FamilyFiction’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ronie loves people and helping other writers through speaking, workshops, and/or mentoring. Find Ronie at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction) , Twitter (@roniekendig), Goodreads, and Instagram (www.instagram.com/kendigronie ).
Since launching onto the publishing scene, Ronie’s Rapid-Fire Fiction has hit the CBA Bestseller List, won the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, Realm Award, Alliance Award, back-to-back RT Reviewers' Choice Awards, the HOLT Medallion, the IRCA, and FamilyFiction’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ronie loves people and helping other writers through speaking, workshops, and/or mentoring. Find Ronie at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction) , Twitter (@roniekendig), Goodreads, and Instagram (www.instagram.com/kendigronie ).
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October 9, 2015Can I just say how REFRESHING it is to hear of a Christian fantasy novel with a young man as main character? Finally.
August 5, 2018
First off, I LOVE the concept of this book! A fire-wielding princess trades places with her crippled brother, and he must go on a quest to save her from his own paralyzed fate. I was interested based on the sibling dynamic alone, never mind the disability and the fire powers.
WHAT I LIKED:
-Male protagonist! There aren’t enough of those around. Haegan was a well-rounded hero with refreshing weaknesses to contend with. Having been paralyzed for years, only to receive movement quite suddenly, he was physically weak, clumsy, and unpracticed. But he made up for it with heart and brains. (Well, there is one thing he seemed rather clueless about, but that could just be me. Regardless, he was great.)
-The raqine are awesome. Cat-like creatures with wings that fold into their shoulders? How is that not super fun?
-Set-up for an epic “fellowship.” One of my favorite fantasy tropes is the band of misfits, and we certainly have the beginnings of one here. A young woman full of secret shame, an accelerant running from his superiors, an even-keeled boy from a distant land, another boy with a giant chip on his shoulder, and a kid who’s wiser than all of them... By the climax, we get a whisper of who they’re all going to grow up to be, and I’m excited.
-The wielding was fascinating! Lots of elemental-type powers sound the same from one book to another, but there was something different about the accelerants, people gifted with the ability to wield Abiassa’s Flames, tasked with serving Her with their power. (Some of their gestures and movements reminded me of Avatar: The Last Airbender.)
-And Drracien reminded me of Avatar’s Prince Zuko in some ways. XD
-Themes of familial love and pain run strong. Years of miscommunication inflict deep wounds on many of the characters, and it was refreshing to see some of them begin to work through that.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE:
-All. The. POVs. I counted at least ten, if not more, throughout the book. Granted, we spend most of the story with Haegan, but we also see through the eyes of his sister, father, mentor, love interest, love interest’s brother, friends, and enemies. It felt like a lot, particularly in the beginning when I was trying to get a handle on the world building and figure out just whose story this was.
-Because of that, the first half didn’t feel as cohesive as it could’ve been. Most of the subplots did weave together by the end, but in the first 200 pages, I wasn’t sure who to keep track of.
-I was a little unclear on some of the rules and timelines.
-The big, bad villain felt distant and somewhat impotent, but I suspect that will change dramatically in the next two books!
CONCLUSION
Although it took a while to get going, I did enjoy the main character and his struggles, the Flames, and the promise of epicness to come. So I’ll be reading book 2 at some point!
WHAT I LIKED:
-Male protagonist! There aren’t enough of those around. Haegan was a well-rounded hero with refreshing weaknesses to contend with. Having been paralyzed for years, only to receive movement quite suddenly, he was physically weak, clumsy, and unpracticed. But he made up for it with heart and brains. (Well, there is one thing he seemed rather clueless about, but that could just be me. Regardless, he was great.)
-The raqine are awesome. Cat-like creatures with wings that fold into their shoulders? How is that not super fun?
-Set-up for an epic “fellowship.” One of my favorite fantasy tropes is the band of misfits, and we certainly have the beginnings of one here. A young woman full of secret shame, an accelerant running from his superiors, an even-keeled boy from a distant land, another boy with a giant chip on his shoulder, and a kid who’s wiser than all of them... By the climax, we get a whisper of who they’re all going to grow up to be, and I’m excited.
-The wielding was fascinating! Lots of elemental-type powers sound the same from one book to another, but there was something different about the accelerants, people gifted with the ability to wield Abiassa’s Flames, tasked with serving Her with their power. (Some of their gestures and movements reminded me of Avatar: The Last Airbender.)
-And Drracien reminded me of Avatar’s Prince Zuko in some ways. XD
-Themes of familial love and pain run strong. Years of miscommunication inflict deep wounds on many of the characters, and it was refreshing to see some of them begin to work through that.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE:
-All. The. POVs. I counted at least ten, if not more, throughout the book. Granted, we spend most of the story with Haegan, but we also see through the eyes of his sister, father, mentor, love interest, love interest’s brother, friends, and enemies. It felt like a lot, particularly in the beginning when I was trying to get a handle on the world building and figure out just whose story this was.
-Because of that, the first half didn’t feel as cohesive as it could’ve been. Most of the subplots did weave together by the end, but in the first 200 pages, I wasn’t sure who to keep track of.
-I was a little unclear on some of the rules and timelines.
-The big, bad villain felt distant and somewhat impotent, but I suspect that will change dramatically in the next two books!
CONCLUSION
Although it took a while to get going, I did enjoy the main character and his struggles, the Flames, and the promise of epicness to come. So I’ll be reading book 2 at some point!
January 13, 2016
I'm an avid reader of all books by Ronie Kendig and she did not disappoint. From the opening scene she weaves a tale that is intriguing and captivating. The imagery and every word was used to engage the senses and put the reader into the world of Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar, heirs to the Nine Kingdoms. But she doesn't stop with just the brother and sister. She has a cast of characters, each important to the quest Haegan must make to get to the Great Falls. I absolutely loved this book and could see it easily becoming the next big thing next to the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The ending is a cliff hanger but it only leaves me wanting to read the next book in the Abiassa's Fire series. If you like speculative fiction, this one is right up your alley. If not, this one will make you a fan.
October 19, 2015
“Surprising” and “amazing” sums up my first thoughts about “Embers” by Ronie Kendig. But really a lot of “WOWs” are going through my mind right now. I have enjoyed all of Ronie’s books and when I heard she had written speculative fiction, I could not wait to explore the story world she had created.
Kendig did not disappoint in this genre; she threw me right into the story – into another world – and kept my attention all along. Fast-pacing and heart racing, “Embers” had me nearly constantly on the edge of my seat.
No dull moment will annoy your reading experience. From start to finish, it is a most satisfying read.
Kendig did not disappoint in this genre; she threw me right into the story – into another world – and kept my attention all along. Fast-pacing and heart racing, “Embers” had me nearly constantly on the edge of my seat.
No dull moment will annoy your reading experience. From start to finish, it is a most satisfying read.
Read
January 15, 2020DNF.
March 5, 2016
Embers is captivating and brilliant--a fantasy tale that draws you into a world of heat and fire, good and evil. Ronie Kendig delivers a searing tale that will leave you craving more!
Siblings, one crippled the other gifted. A enemy who will stop at nothing to wage war. A long forgotten prophecy that will change the course of history. This is the recipe for a fantastic read and Ronie Kendig is the master chef who has brought it all together in Embers.
I really don't know where to start this review because I'm simply blown away by Ronie and this book. Not surprising (I love everything she writes) but this was on a whole different level of awesome. The world building, gifts-creation/explanation, and epic fantasy awesomeness coalesce into a tale that keeps you guessing until the end, desperate to find out what the truth is.
As I read Embers I was enveloped in the story, wholly there, leaping to new heights and anxious to discover what would happen next. Ronie's writing is flawless! Her grasp of the world was evident in her descriptions as well as the rich details that aid in sucking a reader in. She also crafted a really awesome character in the raqine (I want one) and it's the little details like that that simply amaze me.
I also really enjoyed her characters. I felt like the cast for Embers was well chosen and fleshed out. They are vivid as individuals, but they don't distract from the main characters or the plot. The dialogue was also amazing, really conveying the feeling of the world and its people.
As for the ending--I won't give anything away, but trust me, you'll turn the last page already wondering where Book 2 is, because let's be honest, we need it NOW.
I highly recommend this to everyone! Those who already enjoy fantasy will love it, and those who haven't tried fantasy yet...well, you need to read this! There is action, adventure, romance, intrigue, and enough questions to keep you guessing until the end.
Embers is a wild ride you won't soon forget!
Originally posed on my blog: http://eahendryx.blogspot.com/2015/12...
---
I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
Siblings, one crippled the other gifted. A enemy who will stop at nothing to wage war. A long forgotten prophecy that will change the course of history. This is the recipe for a fantastic read and Ronie Kendig is the master chef who has brought it all together in Embers.
I really don't know where to start this review because I'm simply blown away by Ronie and this book. Not surprising (I love everything she writes) but this was on a whole different level of awesome. The world building, gifts-creation/explanation, and epic fantasy awesomeness coalesce into a tale that keeps you guessing until the end, desperate to find out what the truth is.
As I read Embers I was enveloped in the story, wholly there, leaping to new heights and anxious to discover what would happen next. Ronie's writing is flawless! Her grasp of the world was evident in her descriptions as well as the rich details that aid in sucking a reader in. She also crafted a really awesome character in the raqine (I want one) and it's the little details like that that simply amaze me.
I also really enjoyed her characters. I felt like the cast for Embers was well chosen and fleshed out. They are vivid as individuals, but they don't distract from the main characters or the plot. The dialogue was also amazing, really conveying the feeling of the world and its people.
As for the ending--I won't give anything away, but trust me, you'll turn the last page already wondering where Book 2 is, because let's be honest, we need it NOW.
I highly recommend this to everyone! Those who already enjoy fantasy will love it, and those who haven't tried fantasy yet...well, you need to read this! There is action, adventure, romance, intrigue, and enough questions to keep you guessing until the end.
Embers is a wild ride you won't soon forget!
Originally posed on my blog: http://eahendryx.blogspot.com/2015/12...
---
I received a free copy of this book for review purposes, but was under no obligation to read the book or post a review. I do so under my own motivation and the opinions I have expressed in this review are honest and entirely my own.
October 25, 2015
I recently took a reading leap of faith and read a book that is far outside my normal literary choice. Although I enjoy fantasy movies, I really had not read a purely speculative fantasy novel before. Knowing that I have enjoyed Ronie Kendig’s military fiction and that I like her writing style gave me the courage to step into this unknown world. I am very glad I did.
It took me a little while to get the “lay of the land”, so to speak, as well as to understand who the many characters were and how they related to each other. I read slowly so as not to get confused about plot and relationships. Then, I seemed to hit a point where everything just “clicked”. This new land, although strange and full of fire wielding beings, became an amazing back drop to an exhilarating tale.
Some things really spoke to me in this story. One was the vivid descriptions of the lands that the main characters traveled through. Another was the personal growth of the main characters. I also enjoyed seeing relationships and friendships form as Haegan and Thiel journeyed with the other young men in the story.
This book has a great combination of action and adventure, and is ripe with symbolism throughout. The story moved quickly for me, once I got my bearings in the new land, and I found myself anxiously devouring the book to see what happened next. I am very excited to follow the continuing saga in future novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
It took me a little while to get the “lay of the land”, so to speak, as well as to understand who the many characters were and how they related to each other. I read slowly so as not to get confused about plot and relationships. Then, I seemed to hit a point where everything just “clicked”. This new land, although strange and full of fire wielding beings, became an amazing back drop to an exhilarating tale.
Some things really spoke to me in this story. One was the vivid descriptions of the lands that the main characters traveled through. Another was the personal growth of the main characters. I also enjoyed seeing relationships and friendships form as Haegan and Thiel journeyed with the other young men in the story.
This book has a great combination of action and adventure, and is ripe with symbolism throughout. The story moved quickly for me, once I got my bearings in the new land, and I found myself anxiously devouring the book to see what happened next. I am very excited to follow the continuing saga in future novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
January 9, 2016
EMBERS is a stunningly gorgeous fantasy/speculative fiction debut from Kendig, who is better known for writing contemporary military romance. The fantasy world is built with vivid detail you have to absorb (along with the characters!) on the run from danger. The action scenes are sensory explosions and the burgeoning "could-it-be-romance?" thread has so many obstacles to success already... whew! I am really excited to get my hands on the next book in this series! If you love quest-driven fantasy starring a team of societal misfits, misplaced royals, and strange peoples, and if you are looking for a new world to discover (what epic fantasy fan is not?) this story will serve as an excellent start to your next epic fantasy addiction!
June 20, 2019
A strong set of concepts but structurally jumbled. Embers touches on some of the things I love about fantasy and misses the mark entirely on some of the things I love about storytelling. The villain does nothing all story long, the thematic arc is muddled and the story refers to heavy issues but refuses to delve into them. I'm not ruling out finishing the series, but it's difficult.
October 13, 2016
An epic fantasy tale that has a difficult start, but is worth sticking with till the end.
Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar may be brother and sister but are vastly different from one another. As royal heirs to the Nine Kingdoms they have grown up under the eyes of the empire. Haegan, poisoned as a young boy, lays crippled in the top of a tower. His only company for the past decade has been his tutor and his sister. His father refuses to see him as his guilt for his sons position keeps him at bay. Kaelyria comes to her bother with a plan to cure him. She will transfer her fire-harnessing abilities to Haegan, but the price is that she will then take on his disability, a fact withheld from her by the enemy who is supposedly helping her. This act will unleash their father’s wrath and let their enemy, Poired Dyrth come closer to taking all they hold dear. Haegan must leave his home and try to find a cure for his sister and stop the war Dyrth who is determined to bring to their front door.
When writing a fantasy novel, many things have to be taken into account. First of all, you are building this entirely new world and having to bring your reader into it without losing them in the buildup. That’s not an easy task. The other difficult part is with Fantasy you can go all out and be crazy with the names of your characters, places, and objects. With Embers I thought the world was set up well. I had and still have a few things that are a bit confusing to me, but am hoping they will be cleared up with the next book. The names bothered me. They were so difficult that I often glanced at who was talking without trying to say the names in order to save myself some time with sounding it all out every single time. Luckily, one of our main characters, Haegan, isn’t too difficult to say and was smack in the center of almost everything that was going on. He grew throughout the story beautifully. His transformation is still happening and I foresee great things for him in the following book. I really thought Kaelyria would play a more prominent role. They went back and forth a smidge at the beginning and then she basically dropped from the story till the end. I would have liked to see her story play out more. There is a very prolific theme of good vs. evil throughout. While this isn’t the usual for Ronie Kendig, straying from her military thrillers, I think she did an excellent job. The end tied up many of the holes but left several to lead into book two with ease. I think lovers of fantasy will really enjoy this book.
Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar may be brother and sister but are vastly different from one another. As royal heirs to the Nine Kingdoms they have grown up under the eyes of the empire. Haegan, poisoned as a young boy, lays crippled in the top of a tower. His only company for the past decade has been his tutor and his sister. His father refuses to see him as his guilt for his sons position keeps him at bay. Kaelyria comes to her bother with a plan to cure him. She will transfer her fire-harnessing abilities to Haegan, but the price is that she will then take on his disability, a fact withheld from her by the enemy who is supposedly helping her. This act will unleash their father’s wrath and let their enemy, Poired Dyrth come closer to taking all they hold dear. Haegan must leave his home and try to find a cure for his sister and stop the war Dyrth who is determined to bring to their front door.
When writing a fantasy novel, many things have to be taken into account. First of all, you are building this entirely new world and having to bring your reader into it without losing them in the buildup. That’s not an easy task. The other difficult part is with Fantasy you can go all out and be crazy with the names of your characters, places, and objects. With Embers I thought the world was set up well. I had and still have a few things that are a bit confusing to me, but am hoping they will be cleared up with the next book. The names bothered me. They were so difficult that I often glanced at who was talking without trying to say the names in order to save myself some time with sounding it all out every single time. Luckily, one of our main characters, Haegan, isn’t too difficult to say and was smack in the center of almost everything that was going on. He grew throughout the story beautifully. His transformation is still happening and I foresee great things for him in the following book. I really thought Kaelyria would play a more prominent role. They went back and forth a smidge at the beginning and then she basically dropped from the story till the end. I would have liked to see her story play out more. There is a very prolific theme of good vs. evil throughout. While this isn’t the usual for Ronie Kendig, straying from her military thrillers, I think she did an excellent job. The end tied up many of the holes but left several to lead into book two with ease. I think lovers of fantasy will really enjoy this book.
July 27, 2020
Well, hello, incredible fantasy epic from Ronie Kendig!
This book, though.
Was amazing. Thrilling. Fascinating. Challenging.
If you like your reads light and easy to deal with, simple and typical, this is NOT the book for you. This book is a CHUNKY MONKEY packed with action, complex characters, fabulous world-building, and shattering emotions that I finished in a mere couple of days.
I am in absolute AWE of Ronie Kendig. Every time I read one of her books, I am floored by the magnitude of her talent. Can I write just a little bit as amazing as her when I grow up?
The characters were absolutely incredible, the romance was beautiful (but also fairly light). The adventure, travel, and glorious storytelling were pure pleasure to read. THIS is what reading *should be* friends! THIS book, right here epitomizes the enjoyment and challenge that great books should always be. And I adored it.
I want to keep gushing. High-pitched squealing because it is soooooo good!
But I'll stop, because who wants to hear that?!
FIVE STARS because it was all of the things and I need the rest of the series to devour immediately.
'nuff said.
This book, though.
Was amazing. Thrilling. Fascinating. Challenging.
If you like your reads light and easy to deal with, simple and typical, this is NOT the book for you. This book is a CHUNKY MONKEY packed with action, complex characters, fabulous world-building, and shattering emotions that I finished in a mere couple of days.
I am in absolute AWE of Ronie Kendig. Every time I read one of her books, I am floored by the magnitude of her talent. Can I write just a little bit as amazing as her when I grow up?
The characters were absolutely incredible, the romance was beautiful (but also fairly light). The adventure, travel, and glorious storytelling were pure pleasure to read. THIS is what reading *should be* friends! THIS book, right here epitomizes the enjoyment and challenge that great books should always be. And I adored it.
I want to keep gushing. High-pitched squealing because it is soooooo good!
But I'll stop, because who wants to hear that?!
FIVE STARS because it was all of the things and I need the rest of the series to devour immediately.
'nuff said.
February 16, 2018
I’ve read many of Ronie Kendig’s other books and I have loved them. Yet, I was a bit hesitant to read a fantasy book by her because these two genres are so different. HOWEVER, I must say I was blown out of the water with this book. Ronie Kendig has really captured the realm of fantasy writing.
In this story, you will find sparks flying everywhere. You’ll see them between the relationship of Haegan and his father, the Fire King, to Haegan and his relationship with Theil, a girl who just might be the answer to many of his issues.
Haegan goes on a quest across the land, with some interesting characters, in the belief it is to save his sister. Unfortunately, this adventure is full of obstacles, and constant battles, as well as mistrust between these characters. Still, there is a hope which grows deep inside of Haegan and drives him forward. He takes each step, longing for things to work out.
I truly enjoyed being introduced this new series, and I highly recommend reading the book. Pick it up and start on the adventure of your life.
In this story, you will find sparks flying everywhere. You’ll see them between the relationship of Haegan and his father, the Fire King, to Haegan and his relationship with Theil, a girl who just might be the answer to many of his issues.
Haegan goes on a quest across the land, with some interesting characters, in the belief it is to save his sister. Unfortunately, this adventure is full of obstacles, and constant battles, as well as mistrust between these characters. Still, there is a hope which grows deep inside of Haegan and drives him forward. He takes each step, longing for things to work out.
I truly enjoyed being introduced this new series, and I highly recommend reading the book. Pick it up and start on the adventure of your life.
January 14, 2019
Speculative fictions fans you will not want to miss Embers! Ronie's world building skills are amazing. This is an epic adventure of the highest level!
October 20, 2015
Kendig’s skill in delivering a rockin’ good adventure, laced with a touch of romance, shines in this first installment of her fantasy debut. Her tagline is “Rapid-Fire Fiction” for good reason, and whether she’s writing military thrillers, speculative, or even “plain” romance, she knows how to deliver. If you’re a fan of epic fantasy—or dystopian, or YA—you NEED to read this one!
August 29, 2018
This is a typically high-octane fast-paced Kendig story. She throws us straight into the conflict and the pace never lets up. For her first speculative novel Kendig builds a wonderful stage in the alternative world she creates and then packs it with a diverse bunch of characters and interwoven relationships that add richness and depth to the plot.
I loved the two leads: Haegan and Thiel. Can I say that again? I loved these two. Their development as individuals over the course of the story is fascinating to read. When I first met them I was a bit indifferent but Kendig by taking them on so many challenges draws the noble qualities out of them both. I’m so looking forward to seeing how Kendig further develops them in books two and three.
And the raqines? As one other reviewer simply said: I want one. Ditto to that. But once again, Kendig instills these wondrous beasts with personality and character.
This was a great adventure story as Haegan is driven to save his sister. The force of his desire and his willingness to sacrifice himself was powerful writing. It was fascinating to see how Thiel and her motley band of likeable rogues followed, some reluctantly, Haegan’s spirited advance. These other characters: Drracien, Tokar, Laertes and Praegur who journeyed alongside the two leads were a good mix of qualities demonstrating Kendig’s character-building skills.
One of the challenges reading such a fast-paced story with many new characters and places was it at times was hard to keep up with who’s who. And I do feel there could have been longer pauses in the action so I could have felt a little more in control of the vastness of the characters and goings on. I think great speculative novels allow the reader to breathe and to inhale the vastness of the alternative world, the diverse cast of characters and their motivations. I felt often reading Embers I needed some breathing space and just when I was about to get some I was thrown into another new high-octane episode.
One of my struggles was understanding who the main antagonist in the story was. There was very little written about him and it was only in the last twenty or so pages we saw how close he was to achieving his ambition. I suspect this has been set up for Book 2 and I imagine the bad guy will feature more in it.
This is an outstanding first speculative novel and I’m quite anxious for number two to be released. If you enjoy fast-paced speculative adventures with new worlds and some crazy named characters you will enjoy reading Embers.
I loved the two leads: Haegan and Thiel. Can I say that again? I loved these two. Their development as individuals over the course of the story is fascinating to read. When I first met them I was a bit indifferent but Kendig by taking them on so many challenges draws the noble qualities out of them both. I’m so looking forward to seeing how Kendig further develops them in books two and three.
And the raqines? As one other reviewer simply said: I want one. Ditto to that. But once again, Kendig instills these wondrous beasts with personality and character.
This was a great adventure story as Haegan is driven to save his sister. The force of his desire and his willingness to sacrifice himself was powerful writing. It was fascinating to see how Thiel and her motley band of likeable rogues followed, some reluctantly, Haegan’s spirited advance. These other characters: Drracien, Tokar, Laertes and Praegur who journeyed alongside the two leads were a good mix of qualities demonstrating Kendig’s character-building skills.
One of the challenges reading such a fast-paced story with many new characters and places was it at times was hard to keep up with who’s who. And I do feel there could have been longer pauses in the action so I could have felt a little more in control of the vastness of the characters and goings on. I think great speculative novels allow the reader to breathe and to inhale the vastness of the alternative world, the diverse cast of characters and their motivations. I felt often reading Embers I needed some breathing space and just when I was about to get some I was thrown into another new high-octane episode.
One of my struggles was understanding who the main antagonist in the story was. There was very little written about him and it was only in the last twenty or so pages we saw how close he was to achieving his ambition. I suspect this has been set up for Book 2 and I imagine the bad guy will feature more in it.
This is an outstanding first speculative novel and I’m quite anxious for number two to be released. If you enjoy fast-paced speculative adventures with new worlds and some crazy named characters you will enjoy reading Embers.
December 29, 2018
Though I've read 112 books this year, this is only the second fantasy I've read this year, and the only one belonging in the High Fantasy genre. So, that being said, I'm not familiar with the genre.
When I began Embers, I was so dang confused. I almost put the book down on several occasions, because I felt like a bajillion new terms and names that just don't exist on planet earth were being thrown at me, with NADA. ZILCH. ZERO glossary for terms or characters or anything. That, and I honestly wondered if I've started with the first book, because there seemed to be so much backstory that I just wasn't getting, I was simply thrown into the great expanse with little to no explanation of the planet or earth Embers takes place on, who the peoples are, what they are, and who rules who. As already mentioned, I was horribly confused and overwhelmed. I'm not sure if that's because I don't read Fantasy much, or because it was just plain confusing in its sheer complexity--but rather unexplained complexity besides a ton of terms and names being presented to you without enough of an explanation for them to make sense?
BUTTT...I'm so glad I stuck to it. Because, after all my confusion (see above for details) I really came to enjoy the plot and characters. I don't read a lot of "Quest" plots, and Embers was a good change of pace. I loved Thiel and Haegen's relationship, LOVED Draccien's rogue-ish character (can't wait for his character to be expanded in the coming books!) and the foray into Ybienn...I found that quite fascinating. The pace remained at a good clip throughout, and I loved their travelling to different cities, cultures and the different people the MC's encountered as they journeyed!
I am still confused about this Poired Dyrth character...after a whole 500 pages you'd think I'd know a bit more about him but I just don't...get...why. Like he's the biggest baddest dude, but I was hoping for a bit of a backstory that supported why he's the biggest baddest dude around.
And I still don't understand the concept of incipients entirely--do they have fire powers and use them wrongly, or are they regular people who use black magic to mimic real accelerants? Obviously, I have a lot of questions, lol. I'm hoping these get mentioned in the coming books?
Great change of pace from my reading style, which is mostly contemporary suspense and historical fiction. I can't wait to see how the story unfolds in books 2 & 3! And now, despite my confusion & questions, I want to read a bunch more fantasy books...I'm guessing 2019 may be filled with them.
When I began Embers, I was so dang confused. I almost put the book down on several occasions, because I felt like a bajillion new terms and names that just don't exist on planet earth were being thrown at me, with NADA. ZILCH. ZERO glossary for terms or characters or anything. That, and I honestly wondered if I've started with the first book, because there seemed to be so much backstory that I just wasn't getting, I was simply thrown into the great expanse with little to no explanation of the planet or earth Embers takes place on, who the peoples are, what they are, and who rules who. As already mentioned, I was horribly confused and overwhelmed. I'm not sure if that's because I don't read Fantasy much, or because it was just plain confusing in its sheer complexity--but rather unexplained complexity besides a ton of terms and names being presented to you without enough of an explanation for them to make sense?
BUTTT...I'm so glad I stuck to it. Because, after all my confusion (see above for details) I really came to enjoy the plot and characters. I don't read a lot of "Quest" plots, and Embers was a good change of pace. I loved Thiel and Haegen's relationship, LOVED Draccien's rogue-ish character (can't wait for his character to be expanded in the coming books!) and the foray into Ybienn...I found that quite fascinating. The pace remained at a good clip throughout, and I loved their travelling to different cities, cultures and the different people the MC's encountered as they journeyed!
I am still confused about this Poired Dyrth character...after a whole 500 pages you'd think I'd know a bit more about him but I just don't...get...why. Like he's the biggest baddest dude, but I was hoping for a bit of a backstory that supported why he's the biggest baddest dude around.
And I still don't understand the concept of incipients entirely--do they have fire powers and use them wrongly, or are they regular people who use black magic to mimic real accelerants? Obviously, I have a lot of questions, lol. I'm hoping these get mentioned in the coming books?
Great change of pace from my reading style, which is mostly contemporary suspense and historical fiction. I can't wait to see how the story unfolds in books 2 & 3! And now, despite my confusion & questions, I want to read a bunch more fantasy books...I'm guessing 2019 may be filled with them.
September 11, 2018
You can find more reviews on my blog: Books of a Shy Girl.
Embers by Ronie Kendig is a YA Christian fantasy book. The story, told in third person, follows Haegan in his journey to fight Poired Dyrth, the enemy of his kingdom. However, he has been a cripple for ten years and after a transference, highly prohibited and dangerous, he has regained the use of his arts, but with a high price. Now he has to fled his kingdom to escape his father’s wrath.
I both loved and hated this book at the same time. I was hooked up since the first pages, but the story was very problematic. The writing style and the plot enticed me so much I couldn’t peel my eyes off the pages for a long time.
I loved Haegan as he slowly learned the way his world worked. Trapped in a tower since he was little, he had yearned so much to be able to move, to prove himself worth of being a prince. And this is one of things that disappointed me. He was left out of the line of succession because he wasn’t able-bodied. The book may send the message that you can be happy and live freely only if you are not disabled.
Another thing that disappointed me is the romance in the novel: it felt unnecessary and born out of nowhere. Sometimes I was irked by the jealousy Haegan felt towards the main female lead just because another male was ‘too near’ to her.
The descriptions veered off the attention of the reader from the story and I skipped some parts for this. For the rest, I highly enjoyed it. The book was fast-paced and reading about Ronie Kendig’s imaginary world was really interesting.
Thiel was a character that I admired. She was fierce and strong, never taking bullshit from others. Her background and her past saddened me for what happened to her, but they shaped her into becoming the woman she was.
I would have loved to know more about how she met with the other boys and I hope they’re bond will be further presented in the next two books.
I’m very torn about what rating to give to this book because, despite all the problems I found in it, Embers captivated my attention and I finished it in a few sessions, leaving me with the need to rush and read its sequel. I give this book 4 out of 5.
Embers by Ronie Kendig is a YA Christian fantasy book. The story, told in third person, follows Haegan in his journey to fight Poired Dyrth, the enemy of his kingdom. However, he has been a cripple for ten years and after a transference, highly prohibited and dangerous, he has regained the use of his arts, but with a high price. Now he has to fled his kingdom to escape his father’s wrath.
I both loved and hated this book at the same time. I was hooked up since the first pages, but the story was very problematic. The writing style and the plot enticed me so much I couldn’t peel my eyes off the pages for a long time.
I loved Haegan as he slowly learned the way his world worked. Trapped in a tower since he was little, he had yearned so much to be able to move, to prove himself worth of being a prince. And this is one of things that disappointed me. He was left out of the line of succession because he wasn’t able-bodied. The book may send the message that you can be happy and live freely only if you are not disabled.
Another thing that disappointed me is the romance in the novel: it felt unnecessary and born out of nowhere. Sometimes I was irked by the jealousy Haegan felt towards the main female lead just because another male was ‘too near’ to her.
The descriptions veered off the attention of the reader from the story and I skipped some parts for this. For the rest, I highly enjoyed it. The book was fast-paced and reading about Ronie Kendig’s imaginary world was really interesting.
Thiel was a character that I admired. She was fierce and strong, never taking bullshit from others. Her background and her past saddened me for what happened to her, but they shaped her into becoming the woman she was.
I would have loved to know more about how she met with the other boys and I hope they’re bond will be further presented in the next two books.
I’m very torn about what rating to give to this book because, despite all the problems I found in it, Embers captivated my attention and I finished it in a few sessions, leaving me with the need to rush and read its sequel. I give this book 4 out of 5.
November 20, 2018
I started this story several months ago and just let it go by the wayside, not getting into it. When I restarted it I wondered why I let it go!
Abiassa is the goddess that the Nine Kingdoms follow. These are the people, some of whom, are able to wield fire. Aelyria is the princess and she is the heir to the throne, as well as a very strong wielder. Haegen is her older brother, but he was stricken with paralysis when he was poisoned at a young age. Aelyria wants her brother healed and finds a way to help him that is illegal for her people.
Poired Dyrth is the evil leader who is trying to take over the Nine Kingdoms.
After Haegen is temporarily healed, he goes on a journey to find complete healing for himself and his sister. Along the way he meets and befriends a group of people, meets the Deliverer, as well as a very strong wielder. He also learns something very frightening about himself!
This is a clean read.
Abiassa is the goddess that the Nine Kingdoms follow. These are the people, some of whom, are able to wield fire. Aelyria is the princess and she is the heir to the throne, as well as a very strong wielder. Haegen is her older brother, but he was stricken with paralysis when he was poisoned at a young age. Aelyria wants her brother healed and finds a way to help him that is illegal for her people.
Poired Dyrth is the evil leader who is trying to take over the Nine Kingdoms.
After Haegen is temporarily healed, he goes on a journey to find complete healing for himself and his sister. Along the way he meets and befriends a group of people, meets the Deliverer, as well as a very strong wielder. He also learns something very frightening about himself!
This is a clean read.
October 6, 2025
This book is hard to rate/review. The story line is intriguing, which is why I got the rest of the series, and I want to know how it ends. But the writing and style leaves something to be desired. There are so many characters introduced so quickly and in quick succession, it’s hard to keep track. And you are kind of thrown into the deep end of this world with little to no explanation of anything.
Sometimes the writing leaves gaps and it jolted me out of the story because I would go back up the page thinking I missed something but it just wasn’t there. It took me about half the book before I felt invested in the characters or saw any potential in the story. Then it got interesting and started bringing all the story lines together.
So the writing leaves something to be desired, but the story line is interesting.
Sometimes the writing leaves gaps and it jolted me out of the story because I would go back up the page thinking I missed something but it just wasn’t there. It took me about half the book before I felt invested in the characters or saw any potential in the story. Then it got interesting and started bringing all the story lines together.
So the writing leaves something to be desired, but the story line is interesting.
March 10, 2022
Gripping. Brilliant. Not far removed from one of her latest series-"The Droseran Saga"
Im keenly hoping that Ronie will be releasing more novels like these. In both series the characters are so endering and brilliantly written, the world they live in is already ritch with history and story.
When im reading one of these books i feel as if im always carrying a doorway to my own secret world around with me. My own secret garden. Except of course there are winged creatures, space travel and oh so many phophesys and juicy foretellings.
Now i cant write for nothing. But every word is honest. Thanks Ronie and please dear god please humour me and write about 10 more fantacy or sci-fi's.
Thank you very much yes thank you to you please. :) :)
Im keenly hoping that Ronie will be releasing more novels like these. In both series the characters are so endering and brilliantly written, the world they live in is already ritch with history and story.
When im reading one of these books i feel as if im always carrying a doorway to my own secret world around with me. My own secret garden. Except of course there are winged creatures, space travel and oh so many phophesys and juicy foretellings.
Now i cant write for nothing. But every word is honest. Thanks Ronie and please dear god please humour me and write about 10 more fantacy or sci-fi's.
Thank you very much yes thank you to you please. :) :)
July 3, 2018
I really enjoy Kendig’s books and was excited to read this series. I was given a pdf version by the author and sat down to read but I just could not get into the story. I figured it was because I was reading book #3 first so I bought book #1 and started from the beginning. I have to admit that this book was a real challenge for me to read. I really liked the plot but the use of unpronounceable names was tough for me to read. Book #3 has a glossary of terms with pronunciations but book #1 did not. I did hang in there and made it through because the story was engaging. I do hope to get book #2 soon to read do I can finally read book #3.
April 24, 2020
Okay, it looks like I finished this book in one really long sitting, but I actually just forgot to update this last night and this morning, sooo yeah.
I enjoyed this book, and once I started reading it in larger sections, I enjoyed it even more. The beginning really dragged (I put this book down and didn't read it for months) but in the long run I'm glad I finished it because the middle/end was SO worth my time.
I would recommend this book, but only to a really strong reader. There are several subplots and the dialogue isn't terribly easy to read. Would recommend though.
It's not the number of books, it's the number of pages.
I enjoyed this book, and once I started reading it in larger sections, I enjoyed it even more. The beginning really dragged (I put this book down and didn't read it for months) but in the long run I'm glad I finished it because the middle/end was SO worth my time.
I would recommend this book, but only to a really strong reader. There are several subplots and the dialogue isn't terribly easy to read. Would recommend though.
It's not the number of books, it's the number of pages.
October 4, 2017
This is a most unusual book - true Christian fantasy, though I would say more clean than 'Christian'; but, nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed it after the first 100+ pages, where I struggled to understand the finer details of the states, rulers, names, opponents and more. After that, it progressed very well, and speedily. I'm not sure whether this is the only genre this author works in, but I've read enough to intrigue me - but would like to read more of a faith tie-in, rather than it be wrapped in some mystical foreknowledge.
Read
July 5, 2019Really enjoyed the story, though a few things I felt should have been addressed in this book (I'm assuming they are in the later books, but there were just a few things I felt should have been in this book.) Plus there were a lot of POV and not all of them were needed and I wish they weren't all there because they build them up but then some just go off and disappear or die after their second chapter...But I loved the story and the characters.
Can't wait to ready book two.
Can't wait to ready book two.
November 24, 2016
I don't read many books in the Fantasy genre but I really like this author; so, I wanted to read this one. It did to disappoint. i was enthralled from the very beginning. With a cliff-hanger ending I was glad I had book two of the series ready to continue on the journey through this intriguing world peopled with so many interesting characters on a great adventure.
December 9, 2023
DNF after the first couple of chapters. Honestly this might be a pretty good book, but it needed a way heavier editing hand. It felt very indie published. I was constantly noticing little errors like missing commas. I just couldn’t do it.
January 10, 2017
You'll love Haegan's journey into the fascinating, dangerous world of the Nine Kingdoms. Haegan discovers what he's willing to sacrifice to save his sister.
December 17, 2017
Embers is action-packed and so fun! I appreciate Kendig's fearlessness in allowing the plot race in directions we do not expect.
September 10, 2018
Awesome Book
Usually I'm not a fantasy reader, but I always enjoy Ronie Kendig's books so I tried this one. Now? I NEED to read book two!!!
Usually I'm not a fantasy reader, but I always enjoy Ronie Kendig's books so I tried this one. Now? I NEED to read book two!!!
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