Playing With Fire

Power of Four #2

by S.F. Mazhar

Hunters have gathered.
Battle lines are drawn.
War is about to begin.

The realm of mages is in chaos. With his powers now unlocked, Hadrian the vamage is preparing to take the realm as his own. The only ones who can stand in his way are the Elementals, armed with the mighty Blades of Aric.

Fourteen years old, Aaron Adams discovers that he is one of the four Elementals who can use these powerful weapons. But when family secrets are finally revealed, Aaron finds himself caught between doing what his parents ask of him and what the mages expect from him.

Aaron faces a choice: pick up his sword and join the fight, or stand back and pray the world doesn’t burn to the ground around him.

Book 2 in the Power of Four series.

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult

432 pages, Paperback

Published February 26, 2015

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

After waiting a year for this book to come out, I was worried that my excitement had risen my expectations to a point that they would never be reached. This book exceeded them. It was well-written and wonderfully paced, never leaving me feeling feeling rushed or bored. Seeing Rose and Aaron's reactions to Kyran's betrayal, as well as Aaron attempting to cope with Kyran's identity left me feeling their pain and confusion. I especially felt bad for Aaron, who by the end of the book, still doesn't know what he should believe to be true and can't stop trying to protect the person everyone is convinced is the enemy. Add into the mix the legacy that was forced onto him and the personal battle looming over the horizon, and I worry how much of him will be left by the end of war. Then there's Kyran, who is being used just as much as Aaron and Skylar were, and yet I'm not sure he realizes it. As much as Hadrian cares about him, he's keeping important information from him and I worry about how Kyran will react when he, along with us, learn the truth. Plus, he continues to get blamed for what others do simply because he is ignorant of what's happening, such as when the Salavador Gate fell. We also learned of another important enemy who I think will become important in the next books, a strange power called the Influence which I don't think we've heard the last of, and a mysterious cloaked figure whose identity I have a theory about. This book was everything that I wanted it to be and more, and I don't know how i will wait another year for the next one.

[S.F. Mazhar · Rating 5 out of 5]

27/02/2015 - It's released!!! You can get your paperback copy of Playing With Fire from Amazon or the ebook from Kindle and Smashwords!


Here it is! The cover for Playing With Fire! Created by the very talented Gerard Donnelly from Ginger Creative Agency.

[Emlewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE this book! I have read other things she as written, and what I loved about that writing is so present in Playing With Fire. The emotions and the relationships between the characters are so strong and heavy. I let out a few cries as I was reading, and my husband would give me strange looks. =) Highly recommend this series!

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

SERIOUSLY!!!!!

This SERIES needs to be a movie PRONTO!

Once again S.F. Mazhar you have out done yourself!!
This book is AMAZE-BALLS!!!!!!
I just can not get enough of this series! so many twists and turns!!!
I love it!!! Hands down you are my favorite Author!!!

I can NOT WAIT for the 3rd Thicker Than Water!
GAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

You havent read it, do yourself the favor and read it!

[weuzeu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first, learning Kyran being the Scorcher and refusing to believe it. Then, chapter by chapter, convincing myself he is the Scorcher and Hadrians' son, but still reading with the belief in deeps of my heart that he could be an Adams. And then, learning that he is Ben, still with the confusedness why he looks so much likely to Alex, his uncle, instead of looking like his father. Adding to that, he has a bike that he named as 'Lexi'. (it was the funniest moment of mine when I noticed that, I was like "aaaaa!!! Lexiiiii -Alexiii Alexiii!!! lol) So I'm thinking that there must be a special connection between Kyan and Alex, bearing in mind that Alex and Hadrian are hiding something from Chris, even though a friend of mine keeps telling me that the secret is not something important and Alex is just the uncle of Kyran, nothing more. But she can't answer why he looks like Alex sooo muchh -neither do any of them, Chris, Kate, Aaron. And why his parens cannot feel him? Or as like Kyran said, is it just they ignored him because they were cowards? So there are loads of questions in my mind. and with a friend of mine who read the three of the series, I mean, with the knowledge about them further more than me and not willing to give a tinny spoiler to me, it's hard to keep yourself away from getting crazy. Anyway, if there is something that I'm sure, KYRAN WOULD NEVER KILL AARON, EVEN THOUGH IT'S THE ONLY WAY TO HAVE THE LEGACY FROM HIM, EVEN THOUGH HARIAND WANTS IT! -ULTIMATELY, HE MADE A PROMIS THAT NOTHING WILL HAPPEN TO ROSE, SAM AND AARON UNDER HIS PROTECTION. SO, HOW THE HELL COULD HE KILL AARON, HIS BROTHER? (btw, I never liked Neriah tho)

[Valora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok, so reading the Power of Four Series is almost all I've done for the last few days. Today I finished the last one which is the prequel, the Elementals and I have to say that the story captured me real good. The author certainly has a love for a close relationship between two brothers, this one has a lot of resemblence to her previous The Dark Prince Series in that sense. However, this of course doesn't mean I liked it any less. I enjoyed very much reading about the universe of mages, why they exist, what are their purposes, how is the mage society constructed, what are the social roles for mages, how do their powers work and so on. However there are still questions left I want answered, so I'm looking forward to read the 3rd book in the series.
--SPOILERS--
First of all, how come Kyran looks so similar to the degree that he is an almost exact copy of Alex? How is it possible for someone to change eye color? Their powers don't seem to be enough of an explanation for that one.

Secondly, how come Kyran is the legacy holder for Fire Element? He is not an Aedus and Hadrian was the only Fire Elemental in the mage realm when he was born. Hadrian got his powers locked away before the attack on Marwa, right? So it's not possible for him to make Kyran the legacy holder even if that was possible 'cause for that Hadrian should have made Kyran the legacy holder without transferring his powers to him otherwise there would be nothing left for Neriah to lock away as Hadrian's powers. Only explanation I can find is that Kyran's parents should be an Earth Elemental and a Fire Elemental but that's also not possible, because Kyran already accepted that he is in fact Ben and there is also the fact that there are no female Fire Elemental. I'm confused about this.

Third, how come both Chris and Kate can not feel their bond with Kyran while he can feel the bond with them? There is something tricky going on there.

Fourth, will Aaron ever show a great power display? I know he wasn't grown up to be a mage, let alone an Elemental but still, I keep waiting for him to show a potential of great power like his father and brother. Also, it was mentioned that he was beyond his age and skipped a few years in school..except for figuring out a few things a bit faster than Rose and Sam, he hasn't really shown he is in fact very smart. This is one of the things felt like a continuation error tbh.

Fifth, when Aaron mentioned his dad about his dream where Alex and Hadrian were talking about a secret of Alex's which Hadrian promised to keep until he was ready to tell his brother, Chris didn't think about the secret Alex kept about becoming a Hunter and not a Lurker. Why didn't he think about that? It should be the first thing comes to mind, bu he seemed to think it should be sth else. This felt like a continuation error too, like Alex's secret about becoming a Hunter was sth added afterwards. (Another thing felt like a continuation error was Aaron's dreams. After some were realized in real life, nothing was mentioned about dreams being realized. They just happened like there was no back story.)

Sixth, Chris said he came back to the mage realm the day after the attack on Marwa to bury his son and brother, and he found out that they were already buried. This means that he at least wandered around the city of Marwa to gather what had happened after he left. How come he didn't hear about Ben still being alive? Why didn't he feel the bond then, but we already know there is sth else going on with the bond. Neriah also said that he had to bury Chris's brother and son, so there should be a grave of Ben's. How come Kyran didn't find out about the grave, then he would know that he was thought to be dead? He said he waited day and night for 4 years for his parents and THEN he went to Hadrian. So this means he was staying else where until then, and shouldn't he have at least heard about the grave? Didn't he ask anyone to find and call his parents back? He can easily enter Salvador or any other gated Neriah cities', so how come he never went back to Marwa? Where were he while waiting for his parents? I'm also very confused about this.

Seventh, Kyran told Rose that his parents were also dead and that he never lied to Rose. Does he mean that his parents are dead to him because they left him alone or seriously, what's going on?

Eighth, this is not even a personal curiosity but what exactly Hadrian meant when all this was the doing of Neriah? What did Kyran mean when he said the same? What exactly happened that wrecked a havoc on the mage realm?

I feel like I have even more questions but, I'm a bit too confused right now. Hope everything gets to be answered but I'm sure they will be knowing the author's previous work, the Dark Prince Series.

I love your writing Mrs. Mazhar, thanks for creating this universe!

[CL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoilers have been tagged. Don't click them if you haven't read the book yet!

Loved it!

I really liked the first book, but this one is just phenomenal! I didn't see the twist coming and it hit me full on in the face (pretty much like the first one)

What I really loved was the backstory I got about the elder elementals. I knew that Neriah and Hadrian were friends before Hadrian turned, but I loved how in this book, we got to see a little more of that in Neriah's words and actions.

I loved Neriah.


He was such a tortured character! I could feel his hesitance in destroying Hadrian, even though he knew he would have to but in the end he couldn't do it

Hadrian was equally interesting.

I honestly felt so confused with him. I know he's the bad guy,but before he went bad, hadrian was good and it was those glimpses of good that caught me. I really hope that there's going to be more on Hadrian, because his backstory is one I want to know!

As for Aaron


Oh boy, did that boy grow up!


He grew so much in this book. I loved how he stood up for himself against his parents, against Neriah and even his friends.

The ground between Neriah and Chris cracked and tilted, throwing Chris bodily backwards.
Everyone stilled before turning to the one who caused the phenomenon.
“Aaron.” Sam reached for his arm, but Aaron shrugged him away. He was raging, his hands curled into fists and eyes narrowed.
Aaron could feel the power of the Earth seeping into him, feeding him energy, readying him for a fight. His angry gaze moved from his shell-shocked dad to rest on Neriah.

He's not quite the badass yet, but I can see Aaron getting there.

Speaking of badasses, I can't forget Kyran.


I have no words to explain how much I love this boy. He is my absolute fav! Every line that had him in it was gold. I love, love, LOVE Kyran and Aaron scenes! I was hanging on the edge of my seat everytime these two crossed paths.

With the major twist at the end of the book, I am eager to see what these characters are going to do in the aftermath of what Neriah did. What will Aaron do? What the hell will Kyran do?! And what am I supposed to do in the year or so it will take for the third book to come out?

I can't recommend this series enough. If you haven't done so yet, get yourself both books now. You won't regret it!

CL

[Jane Salter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really excited to read the second book! Who wouldn't be, after that cliffhanger?! It only took me a few days to read through it. It's a great book. Even though I expected one or two plot twist, I definitely wasn't prepared enough. Your point of view get's constantly changed, your opinions challenged. It's an emotional rollercoaster. It won't get out of your head. I promise, you won't waste your time! I have never read about an idea like this before. The storytelling is great: it never gets boring. If you want to read an exciting and new book, I really recommend "Playing with fire"!! You won't regret it! :)

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Playing With Fire= AMAZING :)

This second book in the Power of Four series is one that will keep you captivated for hours. Honestly, I had a hard time putting it down. Mazhar picks up the pace in this book compared to her first one, Run to Earth. I really enjoyed the character development in Playing With Fire too! The book is full of wonderful back stories and exciting action scenes...Not to mention the big twist! This is one book you don't want to miss! 5 stars for sure! :)

You'll be wanting the next book asap guys...it's that good ;)

[Ana Beatriz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was even better than the first one.
There isn't much that that I could say about this book without giving spoilers and I think that if you're reading this, you already have read the first book, so you love the series too. So I'll be simple.
I cried when a read the death of one of the caracteres (and it wasn't even one of the principals). Seriously, I was screaming alone "no!" when that happened. I had to close the book, because it was hurting so much that I couldn't keep going. And I'm not the type that cries - I have seen so many caracteres die in books and series that I'm not even moved by it normally; there was just four others books that I cried and never cried with TV, in all my life. So understand that when that person died in this book, it really broke my heart.
In this book, we feel how Aaron is changing, growing up, and I loved how confused he was. It cool to see that none of the sides of the war are totally right, none of them are saints. Aaron is just trying to save his friends and family, doing what he thinks it's right. He doesn't give up on Kyran, even if everyone said the boy was evil.
And Kyran didn't give up on Aaron as well, risking so many things to try keep the boy - his brother - save. While he is still an enigma to me, I can't help but loving him more and more. He is in a complicated situation, but still shows that he has a good character.
I loved Skyler too. He is just so real! When he open himself to Aaron a bit, I was so moved. There was a moment (I won't say which because it would be a big spoiler) that I wanted to hug him, saying everything would be okay eventually.
Okay, I end up writing more than I planned. But the thing is -- you'll love everything about this book.
PS: Thank you, S.F. Mazhar, for answering me. The fanarts and the video are amazing.

[Vani Chugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has spoiled for me others. I have seriously not been able to read anything after this, can't find characters as intriguing as mazhar's in any other recently written fantasy genere fiction. I admit it's only been a fortnight since i finished reading Run to Earth and Playing With Fire back to back and I will eventually go back to reading other stuff, but for now my mind is full of Kyran, Rose, Aaron and Skylar. Most of all Kyran (blushes furiously). If you haven't read the book, read it now, it's better than all the Twilights of this world. In fact I am a huge HP fan, but I will still say Mazhar's realm of mages will draw you in just like if not more than JKR's world of magic. The rest of the review is only for people who have read the book---- read " SPOILER ALERT'.

The two big reasons this series has me hooked is the Kyran Aaron budding bromance and the Kyran Rose romance. The latter though has very little page time in Playing With Fire, but the few intense moments that Mazhar has created make you root for them. Especially if you have a crush on Kyran:) No one seems to be able to bring out our bad ass' soft side like Rose does. I just wish Mazhar gave us a bit more insight into Kyran's mind during those deep intense moments. My favorite in this book was when he tells her he can't stand the thought of anything happening to her...sigh it was so sweet aand romantic. I am a bit worried though about Rose, she is in a very difficult place, loving him and wishing she didn't...but then again how would we get an epic romance if it were easy;)

Aaron and Kyran's scenes are written so well, though there wasn't much to smile about in Book 2, Book 1 had me reading most with a chuckle or several giggles, earning several amused looks from my husband. I knew Kyran was going to come to the point he did with Aaron eventually , i just hoped it wouldn't be at the end of the book
I can barely wait for Thicker Than Water...the name alone gives me hope that there will be a lot more of Aaron Kyran. I absolutely loved their conversation after Aaron realizes who Kyran really is.

As for Skylar, i am scared of what this arrogant nad ass will turn into. Aarmana grounded him and kept the good in him alive... i just hope mazhar doesn't turn him all black. I love his shades of gray :)

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is very well paced, well written and exciting to read. I couldn't stop reading once I opened the first page and had to finish it right away.
In the first book, SF Mazhar introduced the main character (Aaron Adams) to the realm of the mages and laid out the background of this new realm and his true identify. The first book ended with a cliffhanger and I couldn't wait to read the second book.
The second book went deeper into most of the main characters' lives and their back story. The readers finally understand the real reason behind Kyran caring for Aaron. There is also the love story of Kyran and Rose - who are now on the opposite sides - and the potential tragedy that can happen to this couple. Finishing this book made me want to read more and eager for the next one. I can't wait to read the novella on the older generation's pasts and how the war started so I can further understand their backstory and why things have turned out the way they are in PWF. I hope S F Mazhar releases the novella and the third book soon.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the twists of Run to Earth not only is the mage world left off-kilter but Aaron and his friends are staggering and trying to figure out their thoughts about Kyran. Everyone is scared that Hadrian is going to end the war his way, but the Adams have more personal and familial problems.
I've gotta say, these endings horrible :). I can't believe that it's the end when I turn the last page. I also can't believe the third book isn't out yet! It was another cliffhanger, and I want to see the character response.

[Gemma Gilbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like the first book, Run to Earth, I read this book in just a day. The story is amazing, full of adventure and excitement. I love the characters and believe in them. I cannot wait to see what is going to become of Aaron and Kyran. I feel exhausted with all the action! But there is also love, loss, friendships and of course, family.

[Chrissy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed book two! Nice to carry on the adventure, however book three is needed ASAP! I finished book two in less than a week and just left me craving even more!

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Claps hands* good job. It's very rare that I rate a story with 4 stars, but this one certainly deserved it.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really interesting and it is very well written. It grabbed my attention right away. I cant wait for the third book. I love S.F Mazhar. Thank you for writing the Power of Four series.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great cliffhanger.

Merged review:

Loved the Cliffhanger!

[pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

All I did was cry every time Kyran's name is mentioned and when his identity was revealed. And get worried over Aaron.