Erica Sterling owns her curves, and inspires passion in every person she meets. It’s the curse of having the Greek muse, Erato, lurking in her soul. After a hot night with a firefighter, she struggles to keep her distance from him. The gods have other plans, but Erica has crossed the line between passion and obsession once before, and she’s never going back. Not even for her Guardian.
No one understands fire and heat like firefighter, Reed McIntosh. After being burned by a bad marriage, he’s sworn off love. But he’s never been with anyone like Erica, and after meeting her, a dormant ability is awakened inside of him, along with the desire to keep her safe.
When a stalker’s threats turn up the heat, Reed will put his life - and his heart - on the line. But when the ashes settle, will love be too late?
The Prophecy - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods, and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."
Lisa Kessler is a Best Selling author of passionate, page-turning paranormal fiction. She's a two-time San Diego Book Award winner for Best Published Fantasy-Sci-fi-Horror and Best Published Romance. Her books have also won the PRISM award, the Award of Excellence, the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, the Award of Merit from the Holt Medallion, and an International Digital Award for Best Paranormal.
Her short stories have been published in print anthologies and magazines, and her vampire story, Immortal Beloved, was a finalist for a Bram Stoker award.
She also publishes horror and thriller novels under the pseudonym, L.A. Kessler.
When she's not writing, Lisa is a professional vocalist and tarot card reader. Her first tarot deck, Practical Tarot, is being release by Beyond Words Publishing with a companion book, Practical Tarot: Learn to read tarot cards intuitively in 2025.
Breath of Passion by Lisa Kessler Muse Chronicles series #3. Paranormal contemporary romance. Mythology. There is a prophecy that says every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn and their abilities will only be activated when the muse and her guardian find each other. Erica Sterling carries the Greek muse, Erato, who inspires passion in every person she meets. She hopes one night with firefighter Reed McIntosh will be enough for them both but Reed is changed. Not only is he filled with passion for Erica, he also has some strange abilities now to keep her safe. Good thing another fire firefighter in his house understands what’s going on and can both explain and help the muses fight the danger that is surrounding them.
A hot fireman saves the hero romance? Why not. Add in a little mystic and it’s a new playground. With abs. Steamy, witty and just a little dangerous. I can’t wait to read more of this series.
This series just keeps on getting more enthralling! It involves the Muses, nine daughters of Zeus who are reborn and, having connected with each other, are working to rebuild a theatre to inspire mankind. One of them has already been killed by a cult striving to oppose them and free the Titans but some have now met their Guardians, each of whom has a special power that helps them protect their muse.
This is definitely a hotter, steamier read but what else would you expect with a firefighter and the Greek muse Erato involved? Reed McIntosh is the Federal firefighter, working on the military base to protect those serving in the armed forces. He is divorced and his marriage to a wife who lied and manipulated their relationship and ruined his opportunities to achieve his ambitions, leaving him determined not to let his heart be involved again. Erica Sterling, however, is just the one to tempt him to change his mind! She is the Muse of Erato, the Greek muse of lyric poetry and the erotic nature inspired by this god of desire, and believes she can’t be in a long term relationship after her ex branded her with fire and became a threatening stalker.
The chemistry between Reed and Erica is off the scale hot and, despite their reticence, their attraction is explosive and just can’t be ignored by either of them. However, their relationship isn’t the only fiery aspect of this fast paced, exciting story. The cult, a stalker, arson and double dealing all take place in this superb sequel took me into the exciting, action packed story, turning the pages intent of discovering what happened next as soon as possible. This author skilfully writes stories which take the reader into the heart of them, making it easy to relate to the characters and to empathise with them in the scenarios which are brought to life within the pages of her stories. This is the third story in the series and, whilst it could be enjoyed as a standalone, I recommend reading them in sequence as they each build upon events in the previous stories. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series in the near future and highly recommend this story and the whole series - they’re brilliant reads to escape into!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion after choosing to read it.
I'm just in love with this series so far! I'm excited to see where it goes! This book is steamy and I can emotionally attach myself to the characters! Love it!
I know absolutely nothing about Greek mythology. I mean seriously, it’s all Greek to me. But I’m in love with Lisa Kessler’s Muse Chronicles series. A good thing about this series is that you don’t have to know or understand Greek mythology. You learn what you need to know through the characters.
Breath of Passion is the third book in the Muse Chronicles series and is easily a standalone read. If you haven’t read the first two books, this one seems to catch you up. Erica Sterling is a human and one of nine women chosen by the Gods to be reborn as a daughter of Zeus. Her destiny, along with the others is to reopen a dilapidated theater and help inspire mankind through arts and science. The Gods knew that the Muses would face obstacles and challenges, thus they also selected nine men called guardians to fall in love with and protect the daughters. Federal Fire firefighter Reed McIntosh has been marked as a guardian.
The two first met at the end of the second book, Legend of Love and sparks definitely flew. While Reed is all for seeing where the sparks lead, he isn’t looking for a relationship. His ex-wife has turned him off to trusting and loving women. Reed’s anti-relationship stance suits Erica just fine. After believing that she drove her last boyfriend over the edge, she’s not looking for a relationship. The two share one amazing night together, with Erica dodging any attempts Reed makes to see her again. However, things change when an arsonist seems to start targeting Erica before setting their sights on Reed. While the Muses haven’t seen or heard from The Order of the Titans (a group who believes that Kronos needs to be freed from the center of the Earth and bring back the Golden Age of Man) they continue to watch and be a threat.
I’ve read all the books in this series and I have to say that Breath of Passion seems to be a game changer for the Muses and members of The Order. Lines will be drawn and new enemies emerge. So far, Breath of Passion is the sexiest book in the series. Erica is the Muse of passion, after all. What had me so invested in the story was not only the characters, but also all the emotions it stirred. There was a lot of happy squealing going on on my part. But there was also tears and sorrow. I need the next book in this series NOW!!
Yet another page turner from Lisa Kessler. Who wouldn't want to be a muse? Until a secret organization keeps trying to kill you and your friends. This time their guardians are in danger as well. Will they all make it through this time?
I have enjoyed several of the Muse books and I believe this is one of my favorites. The characters are so real and passionate to me. I love the action and suspense in the story. The plot keeps me reading this series.
REVIEWED BY: LINDA TONIS MEMBER OF THE PARANORMAL ROMANCE REVIEW TEAM Erica Sterling is the Greek Muse of Lyrics and Erotic Poetry and has the gift to inspire passion. If you read book two which hopefully you have then you know that Reed and Erica met and we were left with the feeling that they would meet again and now they have. Reed McIntosh is a Federal firefighter and has a birthmark just like his best friend Hunter who along with his Muse Callie we met in book two. Hunter knew what the birthmark meant but did not mention anything to Reed since nothing would happen until Reed met his muse.
When Reed bumps into Erica again at a club his birthmark suddenly turns red and painful and of course we know that he is her Guardian. Erica would be the third Muse to find her Guardian but since she and Reed have both sworn off relationships would their association only be one of protection and not love like the others? There is no doubt that there is a strong attraction between the two but Reed still hasn’t gotten over what his ex-wife did to him and Erica is still dealing with her ex-boyfriend Jack’s obsession for her causing her to get a restraining order against him. She is afraid that anyone she has a relationship with will turn out just like Jack. When she broke off with Jack he gave her a going away present a scar on her shoulder from his car’s cigarette lighter.
Unfortunately Jack doesn’t seem to be out of the picture since Erica and Reed left the club together fires are breaking out and they point to Jack as the guilty party. Reed accepts the fact that he is Erica’s Muse and that his new gift is that of telekinesis. His ability comes out whenever Erica is in danger. Of course Jack is not the only danger to Erica and the other Muses there is still the Order of the Titans whose mission it is to stop the Muses from rebuilding their theater and freeing the Titans from their prison.
Ted Belkin Sr. is dead and now there is a new CEO taking his place Mikolas Leandros who disagrees with Ted’s determination to kill the Muses. He knows that trying to destroy them and the theater would only put a target on the Order from the police. Junior unfortunately has his own opinion and that is the same as his father’s was, kill the Muses and destroy the theater.
This is the third book in the series and although each book is about a Muse and her Guardian they all have a connection and should be read in order. Every book is a love story that is filled with suspense, sex, violence and hope for a better future. The characters are amazing and I loved each book. I can’t wait to find out which Muse will be next in her quest to find her Guardian.
All the books in the Muse Chronicles have been nice flowing, easy to read romances with a hint of paranormal thrown in. BREATH OF PASSION continues the trend.
Erica houses the Greek Muse of Lyrics and Erotic Poetry so I was expecting things to be a little hotter than past books and it definitely didn't disappoint. It was hot in the bedroom and out with her Guardian being a firefighter. Erica and Reed have a fiery connection and it screams through the pages.
I wouldn't mind a little shake up of the common romance theme of the series. All the characters so far have had major issues with romance, followed by something bad happening that has made them rethink their issues and makes them realize they are madly in love. I am glad that there hasn't been any insta-love couples, but I would like to see one of the couples just be hot for their Guardian/Muse without the pushing away and denial that their past issues bring. I don't hate it, but it could get repetitive if all the Muse/Guardian romances go this way.
As for the conflict of BREATH OF PASSION. I didn't feel that it was as heavy on the Kronos storyline as the past two books—which isn't good or bad, just mentioning. Kessler throws an obsessed ex-boyfriend turned stalker into the mix of danger. I so wanted the Muses to be able to get a little farther on their theater, but the Order of the Titans seem to have put them even farther behind with the events of BREATH OF PASSION. I can't really see how they are going to get it done now, but I'm sure they will surprise me.
After I finished reading book one, LURE OF OBSESSION, I told myself that I couldn't possibly love the next couple as much as Melanie and Nate. Then I read LEGEND OF LOVE and told myself Callie and Hunter were my new favorite couple. Well, now Erica and Reed are my favorite couple lol. Hopefully the trend continues.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Erica's soul houses Erato, the Greek muse of lyric poetry. Erato is associated with Eros, the god of desire (Cupid is his Roman counterpart). Erica believes that her erotic nature drives men to their limits, so she keeps men at an arm's length after being burnt by a boyfriend-turned-stalker. And Reed, a smoking hot firefighter (and friend of another guardian- this relationship was hinted at in a previous book) has been burned by an ex-wife who took over and ruined his life. With the order (crazy cult trying to bring down the muses) ramping up and Erica and Reed's pasts working against them, can they have a happy ending? Or will they (and others) continue to be hurt when an arsonist starts threatening what matters most to them?
This is the third book in the series, and while it can kind of be read alone, I really wouldn't recommend it. This was another solid book in the series, so if you liked the first two, you'll definitely enjoy this one.
If you haven't read the first two, go back to start (book one). Do not pass go. Do not collect $200. :-)
This author has captivated me with this series. Each one is a delight upon itself. I like how she takes the Greek like qualities and mixes with the suspense that is fused with heat and passion. This one centers around Erica and Reed. You will be pulled in and the lure this firefighter has makes your brow sweat. They are both of one opinion but it will soon be changed with us see the struggle. Given the suspense of that stalker you can not turn away for one minute so not to miss anything. The tale we are given has a great foundation with scorchers thanks to the chemistry you better watch your hands. This is the third one in this series which lets me stay calm about there also the possibility of more once I am finished with this one.
The first thing I always notice when I pick up a book by Ms. Kessler, and it was the exact same way with this book, is how intimate her books are. I feel like the characters are just so well-drawn, they feel like they are a member of my family, people I know very well. I love the way her characters just come to life. As always, the book was also well-written and easy to just get lost in the book’s world. And, as with the first two, you laugh, you cry (oh, do you cry!), and you just feel so much. Erica was the perfect heroine who had been hurt, and Reed was her perfect foil because he, too, had been hurt and knew how she felt. And, there was a surprise that made me go “hmmmmm,” and now I wonder if this character will turn out to be a guardian…wonder who I’m talking about? Read it and find out! I just love the way the author writes simple, fun, great books, and I know you will, too. Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily. This exact review will be posted on both Amazon and Goodreads.
Lisa Kessler has written another 10-star-worthy book in the Muse Chronicles series! This story is my favorite so far. Erica is the Muse of Erotic Poetry, and Reed is a Federal Fireman. Together, they are combustible, both literally and figuratively. Both have been burned before and are leery of new love. Throw in arson, attempted murder, and mayhem, and they must fight to just survive! This story, and series, will draw you in and keep you there. I highly recommend reading it.
This one was very enjoyable. The plot is continuing to develop in the series, this one has two surprises in it that I wasn’t expecting, one of which had me tearing up at the end. The characters were interesting and well developed and I liked their story while we continued to deal with the followers of Kronos and then her ex-boyfriend, which added more depth to the conflict. I liked it. The passion was a bit more tamely described than I like, but it was there and good. I look forward to more in the series, especially Mikolas’ story. Can’t wait for that one!
Plenty of steamy heat, emotion and danger in a perfectly-paced, action-packed tale!
“Are all firefighters as hot as you?”
Breath of Passion by Lisa Kessler is the third captivating installment in her Muse Chronicles series. It is the sexiest book in the series to date and my favorite. The series is built upon a Prophecy: "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods, and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse." The muses have re-united and are committed to building a theater to inspire mankind. Unfortunately, there’s a crazy cult called the Order, which is actively pursuing their goal of releasing the Titans whilst keeping the Muses from progressing with their theater –by hook or crook.
You should know that each novel can be read as a standalone, if that is your preference, but, I would recommend reading the series in order if at possible. While the romance is fully contained within this novel, the development of the danger plot has been building since the first book. That said, newbies to the series are never lost as Lisa seamlessly fills in the basics of what has transpired previously – without being boring to fans - as the story progresses.
The heroine, Erica Sterling, is Erato, the Greek Muse of Lyrics and Erotic Poetry, and her gift is inspiring passion and fire. Flirting and foreplay are right up her alley! Erica believes that she drives men out-of-control, so she avoids relationships after being burned by an ex-boyfriend who turned into a menacing ugly stalker.
Our hero is Reed McIntosh, a smoking hot firefighter and friend of Hunter, the guardian featured in book two. Reed actually met Erica through Callie, Hunter’s muse, and hasn’t been able to forget her since. Reed avoids relationships after his ex-wife lied to and manipulated him, ruining his opportunity to achieve his dreams.
I really liked both Erica and Reed. Their back stories are heartbreaking whilst the chemistry between them scorches the scale. I also thoroughly enjoyed catching up with the other muses and the guardians we’ve met so far in the series.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Breath of Passion:
She didn’t warn you about me?” “Should she have?” Erica finished her drink, relishing the burn in her belly and the flush of heat in her cheeks as she nodded “Definitely.” His gaze smoldered. “It’s a good thing danger is my calling, then.” --- He shook his head, a smile tugging at his lips. “Two hours isn’t going to be enough time.” She grinned, rocking her hips. “We’d better make it count.” --- “What if I promise to keep my pants on?” The smile in his voice had butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She stared up at the ceiling. “Fine. But you’ll have to leave mine on, too.” “Well, shit.” His laughter warmed her all over. “You drive a hard bargain.” “I’m all about hard things.” She ran her tongue along her teeth. “You do have that effect on me.”
Lisa is a storyteller extraordinaire and she weaves her tales to where the characters become family. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each book in this fun and thrilling series. Breath of Passion features plenty of steamy heat, emotion and danger in a perfectly-paced, action-packed tale. I giggled, swooned and cried. Needless to say, I was riveted and did not want to put this book down until I’d read the story all the way through. Now I can’t wait to find out who our next guardian and muse combination will be!
To recap, by the time this book recap’s we’re probably a yr on from the start of the first book, 2-3 months on from the previous books main timeframe, one Muse down with two paired up with their Guardians.
I was confused for a little bit about how Reed’s talents were going to be useful as Erica’s Guardian. But as the story developed, showing us more of each of their lives, the shift in the Order of the Titans etc it made sense.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I liked the shift that was going on. Yet, as I got further into the story, I found myself enjoying that the series had more to it than the predictable. By changing up the pace, the enemy and the focus of the book (slightly) it felt like I got a deeper sense of their overall story in a way that’s much more relatable.
I don’t expect every aspect of a paranormal romance to be relatable, yet I love it when elements are brought in that are super relatable. Or at the very least, more normal, more human. However, an element that I found similar to Sherrilyn Kenyon’s style is introducing future characters in each book.
At least, I’m guessing that this is the case. It seems odd to give side characters names that the main characters then focus in on if that’s not going to be the case. So, I’m guessing the girls have found two more Guardian’s by the end of this book. And I will add, I haven’t started the next book yet so I have no idea if this prediction will come true!
Breath of Passion is book three of the Muse Chronicles. Another great addition to the series. With each story I am transported into her world. Lisa Kessler has a great talent for storytelling. Breath of Passion is the story of Erica Sterling the reborn Muse of Lyrics also known as Erato who is a song writer and Reed McIntosh who is a military firefighter. Reed becomes Erica's guardian. They both are perfect for each other. Breath of Passion adds another great story to the Muse Chronicles. I love learning about the characters. This was another great story. I am excited to hear the next book in this series. I would recommend this series to everyone that enjoys greek mythology and modern day romance. With this series it is a great mixing of the two. Its a perfect series for listening to over and over again. I give Breath of Passion 5 out of 5 stars.
The Muse Chronicles are always filled with a action packed story with hot guys and strong women. We meet Erica although she has the muse of Erato in her and she portrays this strong sexy woman she is far from it. Reed, her firefighter saves her in more than way. I love the struggles these characters endured to find themselves and each other. Fast paced story telling with lots of action leaves you breathless for the next book in this series. Ms. Kessler never disappoints with fun unique tales.
This is book 3 in the Muse Chronicles series. This book had more fire, literally 🔥 🌶! Rightfully so for the Muse of passion. Erica, the muse, and Reed, the guardian and firefighter, heat things up pretty quick. This story had a lot of action and a different turn of events.
I think each book in this series gets better and better. I'm constantly on pins and needles waiting for the next thing to happen. Will Reed's power continue to grow. Is Mikolos a Guardian? What if all the Guardians combined their powers?
Another good book in the series. There's some unexpected twists but they bring a little reality to the fantasy. Still an HEA with the hero and heroine. I'm ready to read the next book!
I hook, this books are so much fun, intriguing and addicting. I can't put them down until I have finish it. I love it and can't wait to read the next book!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍
Best one yet! I really liked Erica and Reed. By far my favorite so far. Warning though, there is a part that will bring you close to if not full blown tears and I'm still trying to wrap my head around it.
Wow! Each book keeps getting better. The suspense and emotion is on every page. I admit even tears came towards the end! Reed and Erica are on fire together. I truly enjoyed this book, and the end was perfect!
Not only did I really enjoy this one, it's depth and multiple plot lines, but I liked how so many new potential matches for the other muses have been presented. I can't wait to read more.