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Blood and Gold #2
Sisters of the Fire
In the next chapter of a fantasy series featuring five unforgettable sisters—the warrior, the magician, the lover, the zealot, and the gossip—an insidious threat jeopardizes a fragile peace.
Four years have passed since the five royal sisters—daughters of the king—worked together to restore their father to health and to the throne while fracturing the bonds among themselves almost irreparably. Only Bluebell remains at home, dutifully serving as heir to her father’s kingdom. Rose has been cast aside by her former husband and hides in exile with her aunt, separated forever from her beloved daughter, Rowan. Ash wanders the distant wastes with her teacher, learning magic and hunting dragons, determined that the dread fate she has foreseen for herself and her loved ones never comes to pass. Ivy rules over a prosperous seaport, married to an aged husband she hates yet finding delight in her two young sons and a handsome captain of the guard. And as for Willow, she hides the most dangerous secret of all—one that could destroy all that the sisters once sought to save.
The saga begins in . . .
DAUGHTERS OF THE STORM
Four years have passed since the five royal sisters—daughters of the king—worked together to restore their father to health and to the throne while fracturing the bonds among themselves almost irreparably. Only Bluebell remains at home, dutifully serving as heir to her father’s kingdom. Rose has been cast aside by her former husband and hides in exile with her aunt, separated forever from her beloved daughter, Rowan. Ash wanders the distant wastes with her teacher, learning magic and hunting dragons, determined that the dread fate she has foreseen for herself and her loved ones never comes to pass. Ivy rules over a prosperous seaport, married to an aged husband she hates yet finding delight in her two young sons and a handsome captain of the guard. And as for Willow, she hides the most dangerous secret of all—one that could destroy all that the sisters once sought to save.
The saga begins in . . .
DAUGHTERS OF THE STORM
448 pages, Hardcover
First published August 22, 2016
37 people are currently reading
1216 people want to read
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January 24, 2019
3.5 stars
The highly anticipated second book Sisters of the Fire in the Blood and Gold series, delivers a tour de force of imagination for your senses in plot and setting.
The adventures and misadventures of the sisters continues in a blaze of love, fury and betrayals in a world much like ancient Britain with rocky shores, craggy islands, mythical forests, whimsical towns and arcane fortresses.
Bluebell is the fierce warrior of the sisters and in search of the sword that has been crafted to slay her. She doesn’t trust her sisters and fears that one of them is in the possession of it to end her life.
Ash has seen the fate of the realm with her gift of seeing the future and is tormented and struggling to do anything in her power to prevent it.
Rose, the princess, was sent away by King Wengest, her Trimartyr husband until she finds a lead on her daughter Rowan’s whereabouts and follows a dangerous trail into the forest to find her.
Ivy has been in a forced marriage to man she does not love and is much older than her. His bedridden state is giving her the freedom to care for their sons and follow an affair with a much a young soldier. Her actions are tipping the balance of the realm in the most dangerous way, putting her in a delicate position to make decisions that alter everyone’s fate.
Willow is the rebel sister that defies it all. She has turned her back on the faith of her family and has become a Maava warrior priestess, proofing loyal and worthy of her god’s cruel love.
As each of them follow their hearts and purpose, the plot unfolds hair raisingly swift, dark and dreadful with mythical splendor, giving way to the depths of the characters desires, despairs, passions, fury and betrayal.
***
This novel was excellent in so many ways. Switching viewpoints from sister to sister, there were redeemable qualities in each of them and something to grab onto to vie for the character. My favorite parts were the settings and mythical creatures entangled and woven in.
Albeit excellent parts, there were a few weaker moments for me in my reading experience, mainly pacing issues of polar opposites. This may have only been my personal experience, as other readers absolutely praise the book.
I do agree that this is a very enthralling and compelling magical read not to be missed. A feast for the senses in the best of ways. I hope to be escaping into more books by Kim Wilkins in the near future.
I received a digital copy of this novel from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you kindly.
The highly anticipated second book Sisters of the Fire in the Blood and Gold series, delivers a tour de force of imagination for your senses in plot and setting.
The adventures and misadventures of the sisters continues in a blaze of love, fury and betrayals in a world much like ancient Britain with rocky shores, craggy islands, mythical forests, whimsical towns and arcane fortresses.
Bluebell is the fierce warrior of the sisters and in search of the sword that has been crafted to slay her. She doesn’t trust her sisters and fears that one of them is in the possession of it to end her life.
Ash has seen the fate of the realm with her gift of seeing the future and is tormented and struggling to do anything in her power to prevent it.
Rose, the princess, was sent away by King Wengest, her Trimartyr husband until she finds a lead on her daughter Rowan’s whereabouts and follows a dangerous trail into the forest to find her.
Ivy has been in a forced marriage to man she does not love and is much older than her. His bedridden state is giving her the freedom to care for their sons and follow an affair with a much a young soldier. Her actions are tipping the balance of the realm in the most dangerous way, putting her in a delicate position to make decisions that alter everyone’s fate.
Willow is the rebel sister that defies it all. She has turned her back on the faith of her family and has become a Maava warrior priestess, proofing loyal and worthy of her god’s cruel love.
As each of them follow their hearts and purpose, the plot unfolds hair raisingly swift, dark and dreadful with mythical splendor, giving way to the depths of the characters desires, despairs, passions, fury and betrayal.
***
This novel was excellent in so many ways. Switching viewpoints from sister to sister, there were redeemable qualities in each of them and something to grab onto to vie for the character. My favorite parts were the settings and mythical creatures entangled and woven in.
Albeit excellent parts, there were a few weaker moments for me in my reading experience, mainly pacing issues of polar opposites. This may have only been my personal experience, as other readers absolutely praise the book.
I do agree that this is a very enthralling and compelling magical read not to be missed. A feast for the senses in the best of ways. I hope to be escaping into more books by Kim Wilkins in the near future.
I received a digital copy of this novel from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you kindly.
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January 31, 20193.5/5 stars
Review from Tenacious Reader
Sisters of Fire picks up 4 years after Daughters of the Storm left off. It has a good amount of action, plotting, scheming, betrayal, etc. Each of the sisters are on their own path. Bluebell is working with her father, the King, and continues to have quite the fearsome reputation as a warrior. Rose has been cast aside and banished by her husband and is raising her younger child in a remote area. Her daughter Rowan is also featured with her caretaker who have been living in an isolated wood. I really enjoy that pair of characters and enjoyed seeing Rowan grow her independent and motivated personality. Ivy is Duchess and her older husband is quite frail. She continues to have questionable judgement and can be a bit selfish/vain. Ash is travelling with a mysterious companion that seems a bit scary at times, but have been hunting for a dragon across the lands, each for their own reasons. And then there is Willow. Willow seems to have gone a bit off the rails with her zealotry and has taken the villain route with her life and training (not that she sees it that way, but villains rarely do). It’s an interesting mix of personalities and story lines.
The first book in this series was addictive right from the start. It was one of those books that I just had a very hard time putting down and tore through in a very short period of time. While I still enjoyed this one, I had a different reading experience from the first.
I do want to lead with the fact that at the end of the book, I am quite happy with the story that this book tells. There is a serious amount of action and events that take place. That said, it did not have quite the same addictive quality for me, except maybe right towards the end. The end of this book is quite climatic, so many things come together it feels like everything that happens is pivotal at that point. It was an exciting ending, enough so that I was tempted to bump up my rating by half a star, but ultimately decided that my impression for the first 75% of the book should not be dismissed, if I bumped it up to 4 stars, it would have the same rating as the first book and my reading experiences with the two, while both enjoyable, were not really quite the same.
In terms of the story progression, this is definitely a book 2 were things do happen. Sometimes those middle books can feel less eventful in terms of overall story progression. Definitely not the case here. Each of the 5 sisters have their own stories and settings (as well as Skalimar/Snowy and Rowan), and honestly, I think this might be part of what slowed the book down for me. I really feel like there were some pacing issues that resulted from all the perspective changes. Yes, multiple perspectives are often key in telling an epic fantasy story because it is such a good way to view multiple sides to the story, add complexity and build the world, etc. However, the way these five were told, it just seemed to cause the story to lose momentum for me. I also found myself way more invested in certain ones, which can also slow down my overall reading.
Overall, this was a fun read that is setting up for what I expect will be a very exciting book 3.
Review from Tenacious Reader
Sisters of Fire picks up 4 years after Daughters of the Storm left off. It has a good amount of action, plotting, scheming, betrayal, etc. Each of the sisters are on their own path. Bluebell is working with her father, the King, and continues to have quite the fearsome reputation as a warrior. Rose has been cast aside and banished by her husband and is raising her younger child in a remote area. Her daughter Rowan is also featured with her caretaker who have been living in an isolated wood. I really enjoy that pair of characters and enjoyed seeing Rowan grow her independent and motivated personality. Ivy is Duchess and her older husband is quite frail. She continues to have questionable judgement and can be a bit selfish/vain. Ash is travelling with a mysterious companion that seems a bit scary at times, but have been hunting for a dragon across the lands, each for their own reasons. And then there is Willow. Willow seems to have gone a bit off the rails with her zealotry and has taken the villain route with her life and training (not that she sees it that way, but villains rarely do). It’s an interesting mix of personalities and story lines.
The first book in this series was addictive right from the start. It was one of those books that I just had a very hard time putting down and tore through in a very short period of time. While I still enjoyed this one, I had a different reading experience from the first.
I do want to lead with the fact that at the end of the book, I am quite happy with the story that this book tells. There is a serious amount of action and events that take place. That said, it did not have quite the same addictive quality for me, except maybe right towards the end. The end of this book is quite climatic, so many things come together it feels like everything that happens is pivotal at that point. It was an exciting ending, enough so that I was tempted to bump up my rating by half a star, but ultimately decided that my impression for the first 75% of the book should not be dismissed, if I bumped it up to 4 stars, it would have the same rating as the first book and my reading experiences with the two, while both enjoyable, were not really quite the same.
In terms of the story progression, this is definitely a book 2 were things do happen. Sometimes those middle books can feel less eventful in terms of overall story progression. Definitely not the case here. Each of the 5 sisters have their own stories and settings (as well as Skalimar/Snowy and Rowan), and honestly, I think this might be part of what slowed the book down for me. I really feel like there were some pacing issues that resulted from all the perspective changes. Yes, multiple perspectives are often key in telling an epic fantasy story because it is such a good way to view multiple sides to the story, add complexity and build the world, etc. However, the way these five were told, it just seemed to cause the story to lose momentum for me. I also found myself way more invested in certain ones, which can also slow down my overall reading.
Overall, this was a fun read that is setting up for what I expect will be a very exciting book 3.
December 14, 2018
They were sisters, but their bonds were tenuous, almost non-existent, as their lives, their goals and their responsibilities were so divergent. Bluebell was the fierce warrior, manlike in her strength and abilities and she was the sister groomed to reign over their father’s kingdom. Underneath her gruff exterior is a heart filled with warmth for a limited few, because she could not show weakness. Each sister became the artist on the canvases of their lives, some colorful, some twisted and surreal, one would see only herself in the portrait of her life. One would hold the key that could bring their kingdom to its knees.
Bound by blood, divided by petty jealousies, selfishness and possibly a fear of being seen as weak or less than the others, they must come together one more time, but will it be for a new beginning or to lower the final curtain on their lives?
SISTERS OF THE FIRE by Kim Wilkins is nothing short of brilliant writing. Raw, bold and earthy, with scenes that evoke emotions on every level, this fantasy tale is for adults about adults. From their weaknesses to their strengths, these sisters’ stories will come together in an explosive and bittersweet reunion where blood will be shed, mistrust will run rampant while truths are revealed and deceits become like gaping wounds that may never be healed.
Kim Wilkins doesn’t mince words, she does not pretty up her characters, she lays them bare, flaws and all and what we see are whole beings struggling to maintain whatever facades they have built up. Will it be worth it in the end?
From start to finish, this addition to the Blood and Gold series is as hard-hitting as book one and just as emotionally charged. Readers will find characters to love, to hate and to pity in a world filled with turmoil and war that five sisters helped perpetuate.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Del Rey!
Series: Blood and Gold - Book 2
Publisher: Del Rey (February 5, 2019)
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 464 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Bound by blood, divided by petty jealousies, selfishness and possibly a fear of being seen as weak or less than the others, they must come together one more time, but will it be for a new beginning or to lower the final curtain on their lives?
SISTERS OF THE FIRE by Kim Wilkins is nothing short of brilliant writing. Raw, bold and earthy, with scenes that evoke emotions on every level, this fantasy tale is for adults about adults. From their weaknesses to their strengths, these sisters’ stories will come together in an explosive and bittersweet reunion where blood will be shed, mistrust will run rampant while truths are revealed and deceits become like gaping wounds that may never be healed.
Kim Wilkins doesn’t mince words, she does not pretty up her characters, she lays them bare, flaws and all and what we see are whole beings struggling to maintain whatever facades they have built up. Will it be worth it in the end?
From start to finish, this addition to the Blood and Gold series is as hard-hitting as book one and just as emotionally charged. Readers will find characters to love, to hate and to pity in a world filled with turmoil and war that five sisters helped perpetuate.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Del Rey!
Series: Blood and Gold - Book 2
Publisher: Del Rey (February 5, 2019)
Publication Date: February 5, 2019
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 464 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 10, 2018
Oh, this is one of those times when I’m going to try hard not to do one of those irritatingly gushy reviews. You know…the ones where the exclamation points outnumber the vowels and every other word is written TOTALLY in CAPS?
But seriously, I love this series and loved this book.
Now, I caution you that you should read book 1 first. There’s so much world building and character building in that book. You can still get into this one, but I think you’ll miss out on a lot that deals directly with our plot here.
In book 2, Bluebell is at her bitey best. I adore the fact that this woman is all fire, familial loyalty, and will use a sword (or an axe) on a perceived enemy without stopping to breathe. However, in book 2, the author also brings the other sisters to life – sometimes to their benefit…sometimes not. (Oh, Ivy! I started out thinking she had grown so much and ended up wanting to slap her.)
Expect epic battles, lots of heartbreak, some sweetness, and so much betrayal. (And maybe a dragon or two.)
This was a breathless read for me and I can’t wait for the next book!
*ARC Provided via Net Galley (and yes, a couple of exclamation points snuck in there.)
But seriously, I love this series and loved this book.
Now, I caution you that you should read book 1 first. There’s so much world building and character building in that book. You can still get into this one, but I think you’ll miss out on a lot that deals directly with our plot here.
In book 2, Bluebell is at her bitey best. I adore the fact that this woman is all fire, familial loyalty, and will use a sword (or an axe) on a perceived enemy without stopping to breathe. However, in book 2, the author also brings the other sisters to life – sometimes to their benefit…sometimes not. (Oh, Ivy! I started out thinking she had grown so much and ended up wanting to slap her.)
Expect epic battles, lots of heartbreak, some sweetness, and so much betrayal. (And maybe a dragon or two.)
This was a breathless read for me and I can’t wait for the next book!
*ARC Provided via Net Galley (and yes, a couple of exclamation points snuck in there.)
January 15, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I read Daughters of the Storm last year which started the Blood and Gold series and wanted the next book so much. I loved the characters and the Norse fantasy themes. I got this book early, way back in August but the New Release challenge has me trying to read current year rather than future years. Then I had trouble starting to read, not actually reading, but picking up the book. Because I was afraid.
Once I started reading I was engrossed immediately, but worried for my beloved characters. This is a story of 5 sisters, the daughters of a long time King. They are all very different but I liked Bluebell and Ash best, Rose was silly but okay, Ivy was selfish but without malice, and Willow is a religious nut and I hate her. I was glad to see Rose and Ivy have matured and are better people as parents, but nothing seems to improve Willow.
There are many battles with swords and some magic. There are dragons. It is an exciting story but I was scared all the time my favorites or the children would be hurt or killed. Life, even when people are greedy or religious fanatics, was rough in this time. There is constant action, and unending, urgent emotions of fear, love, pride, lust and disgust while reading these stories. Ivy and Willow had me rolling my eyes a few times, too.
While this is a satisfying ending point, there is much more to the overall story here. I keep thinking because there are five sisters, the series would have five books, but it isn't how it is. Each book has them all and various developments of them and their families. The next book, Queen of the Seas is projected for 2019 and I'm ready.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I read Daughters of the Storm last year which started the Blood and Gold series and wanted the next book so much. I loved the characters and the Norse fantasy themes. I got this book early, way back in August but the New Release challenge has me trying to read current year rather than future years. Then I had trouble starting to read, not actually reading, but picking up the book. Because I was afraid.
Once I started reading I was engrossed immediately, but worried for my beloved characters. This is a story of 5 sisters, the daughters of a long time King. They are all very different but I liked Bluebell and Ash best, Rose was silly but okay, Ivy was selfish but without malice, and Willow is a religious nut and I hate her. I was glad to see Rose and Ivy have matured and are better people as parents, but nothing seems to improve Willow.
There are many battles with swords and some magic. There are dragons. It is an exciting story but I was scared all the time my favorites or the children would be hurt or killed. Life, even when people are greedy or religious fanatics, was rough in this time. There is constant action, and unending, urgent emotions of fear, love, pride, lust and disgust while reading these stories. Ivy and Willow had me rolling my eyes a few times, too.
While this is a satisfying ending point, there is much more to the overall story here. I keep thinking because there are five sisters, the series would have five books, but it isn't how it is. Each book has them all and various developments of them and their families. The next book, Queen of the Seas is projected for 2019 and I'm ready.
February 20, 2019
This second book in the Blood and Gold series is even better than the first. The setting (northern European-ish) and world-building are as good as before, but I thought the writing itself was a bit smoother. Mainly, the character development was better than in the first book. The likable characters were more likable, though still flawed; other characters sunk further into their selfishness and became less likable--although sometimes more interesting! Either way, we got to know them better, which for me makes for a better book. I really like how the author follows the five very different sisters: we see how each perceives and deals with her circumstances. A good fantasy with lots of action and intrigue and a bit of magic!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a free e-ARC of this book.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a free e-ARC of this book.
August 31, 2016
The second book in the Blood and Gold series, Sister of the Fire, is set a few years after the thrilling events of the first book, Daughters of the Storm, conclude. Once more, we’re drawn into the lives of the five very different sisters as they hurdle towards their unknown and dark destinies. Whether it’s the fierce and loyal Bluebell who’s on a mission to locate a sword that’s been crafted for the purpose of slaying her and which she fears one of her sister’s possesses; or forlorn Rose, the princess set aside by her Trimartyr husband, King Wengest, and who’s forced to live away from the man she loves and with her aunt and son – that is, until she learns the life of her daughter, the indefatigable Rowan, is in danger. We also follow the struggles of Ash as she comes to terms with the terrible power she wields, the fate she sees for the realm and will do anything to prevent. Then there are the twins, Ivy and Willow. Weak and ineffectual in comparison to her sisters, Ivy has been given in marriage to a man she doesn’t love and whose chronic illness threatens to unbalance the city she holds in care for her beloved sons. Then there’s the zealot, Willow. Having turned her back on the faith she was born into, Willow has become a warrior-priestess for Maava and, in her efforts to prove herself worthy of her cruel god’s love, will do anything – even betray the family and kingdom who remain steadfast to her.
Vast in scope and setting (the reader is taken from rocky shores, craggy islands, deserted towns, bustling cities to mystical forests and arcane castles), Sisters of the Storm is a tour de force of the imagination. Each of the main women in the story, and the men who either exploit or love them fearlessly, as well as the children the women love unconditionally (if not always well), are masterfully realised and sometimes brutally rendered. Wilkins doesn’t shy away from exposing their great strengths and tragic and even irritating weaknesses. You believe in these people, these flawed, majestic beings and the goals they pursue, and their need to forge or at least control their fates to the best of their ability. Just as they love with great ardour and conviction, so the reader does too, as we segue from one sister’s path before stumbling upon another’s, championing their individual or collective causes or mourning their dreadful decisions. The prose is evocative, moving and, at time, violent.
There’s no doubt, Wilkins, as story-teller par excellence, has a flair with words – a few well chosen ones conjure the depths of despair, the ache of maternal or passionate love, the fury of betrayal. Likewise, landscape is rendered minimally but with no less impact. You hear the ocean, smell the forest, and enter the bloody battles with your heart racing and your senses afire. The novel is imbued with wildness, mystery and beauty and these are carried through every page of this marvellous conclusion to a terrific series.
I also appreciated the fact that as you reach the final lines, not all doors are closed, not all paths end. I hope Wilkins returns one day to tell more tales about these divergent, complex sisters’ and their families, and the epic, but always recognisable world she’s created.
Vast in scope and setting (the reader is taken from rocky shores, craggy islands, deserted towns, bustling cities to mystical forests and arcane castles), Sisters of the Storm is a tour de force of the imagination. Each of the main women in the story, and the men who either exploit or love them fearlessly, as well as the children the women love unconditionally (if not always well), are masterfully realised and sometimes brutally rendered. Wilkins doesn’t shy away from exposing their great strengths and tragic and even irritating weaknesses. You believe in these people, these flawed, majestic beings and the goals they pursue, and their need to forge or at least control their fates to the best of their ability. Just as they love with great ardour and conviction, so the reader does too, as we segue from one sister’s path before stumbling upon another’s, championing their individual or collective causes or mourning their dreadful decisions. The prose is evocative, moving and, at time, violent.
There’s no doubt, Wilkins, as story-teller par excellence, has a flair with words – a few well chosen ones conjure the depths of despair, the ache of maternal or passionate love, the fury of betrayal. Likewise, landscape is rendered minimally but with no less impact. You hear the ocean, smell the forest, and enter the bloody battles with your heart racing and your senses afire. The novel is imbued with wildness, mystery and beauty and these are carried through every page of this marvellous conclusion to a terrific series.
I also appreciated the fact that as you reach the final lines, not all doors are closed, not all paths end. I hope Wilkins returns one day to tell more tales about these divergent, complex sisters’ and their families, and the epic, but always recognisable world she’s created.
September 12, 2016
Sisters of the Fire by Kim Wilkins was a very fast paced, fantasy book that keeps you guessing until the end!
Kim Wilkins takes you on six different journeys from the perspective of five sisters, and the daughter of one of the sisters. Bluebell, Rose, Rowan (Rose’s daughter), Ash, Ivy, and Willow are all on a very different adventure. Bluebell is a warrior leading the king’s army. Rose is in hiding from her last husband whom she cheated on. Rowan is the daughter of Rose and is hidden away from Rose in the forest. Ash has exiled herself and is chasing a dragon. Ivy is married to the duke of Saecaster. Willow has become fanatic in her religion and is determined to spread her religion throughout the world.
Sisters of the Fire is very fast paced. The story jumps from one character to the next very quickly. Right as you fall into one story you are transported to another story. I thoroughly enjoyed following Rowan and Bluebells story more than the others. Rowan was a very easy character to love. She is young but ferocious. She was the first character that was introduced in the story, which may have been why I had loved her so much throughout the book. Bluebell was the rock of the family that protected everyone and always knew what decision to make. I enjoyed her willingness to jump into every situation with both feet and prevail. Bluebell was so sure of who she was, and her destiny, which was the exact opposite of her other sisters.
Overall I have enjoyed this series so much! The only thing that I wish Kim Wilkins had done differently in this series was to split the characters up into their own separate book. Having five or six different books, each featuring a different character, would have made me develop a deeper relationship with each character rather than pick a few favorites.
Kim Wilkins takes you on six different journeys from the perspective of five sisters, and the daughter of one of the sisters. Bluebell, Rose, Rowan (Rose’s daughter), Ash, Ivy, and Willow are all on a very different adventure. Bluebell is a warrior leading the king’s army. Rose is in hiding from her last husband whom she cheated on. Rowan is the daughter of Rose and is hidden away from Rose in the forest. Ash has exiled herself and is chasing a dragon. Ivy is married to the duke of Saecaster. Willow has become fanatic in her religion and is determined to spread her religion throughout the world.
Sisters of the Fire is very fast paced. The story jumps from one character to the next very quickly. Right as you fall into one story you are transported to another story. I thoroughly enjoyed following Rowan and Bluebells story more than the others. Rowan was a very easy character to love. She is young but ferocious. She was the first character that was introduced in the story, which may have been why I had loved her so much throughout the book. Bluebell was the rock of the family that protected everyone and always knew what decision to make. I enjoyed her willingness to jump into every situation with both feet and prevail. Bluebell was so sure of who she was, and her destiny, which was the exact opposite of her other sisters.
Overall I have enjoyed this series so much! The only thing that I wish Kim Wilkins had done differently in this series was to split the characters up into their own separate book. Having five or six different books, each featuring a different character, would have made me develop a deeper relationship with each character rather than pick a few favorites.
September 6, 2018
What. No. Hard pass.
July 26, 2016
Wilkins has created an intricate, complex, and fascinating world in her Blood and Gold series, and "Sisters of the Fire" is a stunning addition. The main story which is described in the plot summary is that Bluebell is seeking the sword which is foretold to kill her and currently possessed by one of her sisters. She seeks out each of her sisters to find it. However, the novel is much more complex than this and it is one of many subplots. All 5 sisters have their own stories, each of which could easily standalone. For instance, Ivy is taking over ruling for her elderly husband after his demise (at her hand), and Rose is on a mission to find her daughter, Rowan, who is learning of a new heritage and struggling to find her place in the world. Ash is hunting a dragon and learning more about her powers and companion. Willow is continuing on her religious quest and spiraling into insanity.
All of the characters are intricate and complex (just like the plot)- and they all feel so well-developed that I could easily imagine them existing in real life. The plot flows smoothly and quickly, carrying the reader through these many characters and stories with ease. The characters weave in and out of each other's stories beautifully.
My favorite character was easily Bluebell- fierce, independent, courageous- she is everything you could ever want and a warrior king to boot! I am in awe of her character. She's incredible (but very real and multi-faceted)! It's always refreshing to read about such a strong female character, even when living in a place like today where the leadership of women is not always encouraged. I couldn't help but cheer her on every step of her journey.
This book is a must for sisters, who will understand the intricacies of sisterhood, and for women who love strong female characters. I'd highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fictional historical, fantasy, and/or sci-fi books, all with a bit of romance tucked in.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
All of the characters are intricate and complex (just like the plot)- and they all feel so well-developed that I could easily imagine them existing in real life. The plot flows smoothly and quickly, carrying the reader through these many characters and stories with ease. The characters weave in and out of each other's stories beautifully.
My favorite character was easily Bluebell- fierce, independent, courageous- she is everything you could ever want and a warrior king to boot! I am in awe of her character. She's incredible (but very real and multi-faceted)! It's always refreshing to read about such a strong female character, even when living in a place like today where the leadership of women is not always encouraged. I couldn't help but cheer her on every step of her journey.
This book is a must for sisters, who will understand the intricacies of sisterhood, and for women who love strong female characters. I'd highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fictional historical, fantasy, and/or sci-fi books, all with a bit of romance tucked in.
Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2017
First Posted on < a href = "http://www.sapphireddragon.com/2016/0... Realm of the Sapphired Dragon on Wednesday 24th August 2016
ARC received from HarlequinAustralia/Mira in return for an honest review:
I do believe I liked Sisters of the fire even more than Daughters of the Storm. And I adored Daughters of the storm. This book takes up the story 4 years after the end of book 1. All 5 sisters and their offspring are spread across Thrysland and Bluebell hears that one of her sisters has the trollblade that can kill her and she is determined to her her hands on the sword before it gets her.
Again, from page one I fell headlong in to the story. Each sisters thread was spell binding as the next and drew me ever deeper into the story. the way the threads are pulled and weaved is genius with each on pulling the reader ever towards the end.
I love Ms Wilkins storytelling. She manages to weave this extremely intricate yet seemless story that with characters that are so well drawn they leap off the page in all their flawed brilliance. I was invested in each and every one of them in one way or another and they really added and extra layer to an already riveting story.
This book is full of secrets from beginning to end, the sisters and other characters have secrets from each other and from those around them, even from their selves and they way ms Wilkins slowly reveals these secrets and the consequences of their revealing is nothing short of perfection. This book really advances the series whilst still leaving the reader with a sense of satisfaction with the end of this book.
This book is a perfect mix of action, romance and fantasy with well developed characters and a story that will keep you glued to the pages from beginning to end.
This is Australian fantasy writing at its finest and I give this book 5 stars!
Sapphired Dragon xx
ARC received from HarlequinAustralia/Mira in return for an honest review:
I do believe I liked Sisters of the fire even more than Daughters of the Storm. And I adored Daughters of the storm. This book takes up the story 4 years after the end of book 1. All 5 sisters and their offspring are spread across Thrysland and Bluebell hears that one of her sisters has the trollblade that can kill her and she is determined to her her hands on the sword before it gets her.
Again, from page one I fell headlong in to the story. Each sisters thread was spell binding as the next and drew me ever deeper into the story. the way the threads are pulled and weaved is genius with each on pulling the reader ever towards the end.
I love Ms Wilkins storytelling. She manages to weave this extremely intricate yet seemless story that with characters that are so well drawn they leap off the page in all their flawed brilliance. I was invested in each and every one of them in one way or another and they really added and extra layer to an already riveting story.
This book is full of secrets from beginning to end, the sisters and other characters have secrets from each other and from those around them, even from their selves and they way ms Wilkins slowly reveals these secrets and the consequences of their revealing is nothing short of perfection. This book really advances the series whilst still leaving the reader with a sense of satisfaction with the end of this book.
This book is a perfect mix of action, romance and fantasy with well developed characters and a story that will keep you glued to the pages from beginning to end.
This is Australian fantasy writing at its finest and I give this book 5 stars!
Sapphired Dragon xx
October 6, 2016
I'm really enjoying this series from a local (uq!) author. The five sisters, Bluebell, Rose, Ivy, Ash and Willow are in such different places at the start of this book, and it takes a good while for their individual stories to weave back together, but when they do, wow!
Review posted on Tea in the Treetops in October 2016:
Five sisters, the daughters of King Aelthric, are spread out across Thyrsland, each on a separate path. Bluebell, the heir to the throne, becomes aware of a plot to kill her and sets off on a journey to find each of her sisters, but as they draw closer together again they also bring the country closer to war.
I loved reading the first book in this series, Daughters of the Storm, when it was released nearly two years ago. The long wait meant that it took me a little while to remember what had happened to each of the sisters – Bluebell, who prefers her warband to call her ‘My Lord’ (and who kept appearing in my head as Gwendoline Christie no matter how hard I tried not to – sorry Kim!), Ash the elemental mage, Willow the religious fanatic, Rose who loves so fiercely, and Ivy, Lady of Seacaster. The story weaves together each of their separate stories in intricate detail, and the trials of their everyday lives adds colour to their joys and sorrows.
Brisbane author Kim Wilkins has created an excellent epic fantasy, full of kick-arse females and loving fathers, as well as some nasty villains. The settings are vivid, but the relationships between characters are what make this series really shine. Yes, there is strong violence in this one, but also a touch of romance, and one-liners that had me laughing.
I feel as though I haven’t done this series justice, but I don’t want to say more without spoiling the first book. Just read this series if you enjoy fast-moving fantasy, with a flock of strong women and some epic action. Also dragons.
Review posted on Tea in the Treetops in October 2016:
Five sisters, the daughters of King Aelthric, are spread out across Thyrsland, each on a separate path. Bluebell, the heir to the throne, becomes aware of a plot to kill her and sets off on a journey to find each of her sisters, but as they draw closer together again they also bring the country closer to war.
I loved reading the first book in this series, Daughters of the Storm, when it was released nearly two years ago. The long wait meant that it took me a little while to remember what had happened to each of the sisters – Bluebell, who prefers her warband to call her ‘My Lord’ (and who kept appearing in my head as Gwendoline Christie no matter how hard I tried not to – sorry Kim!), Ash the elemental mage, Willow the religious fanatic, Rose who loves so fiercely, and Ivy, Lady of Seacaster. The story weaves together each of their separate stories in intricate detail, and the trials of their everyday lives adds colour to their joys and sorrows.
Brisbane author Kim Wilkins has created an excellent epic fantasy, full of kick-arse females and loving fathers, as well as some nasty villains. The settings are vivid, but the relationships between characters are what make this series really shine. Yes, there is strong violence in this one, but also a touch of romance, and one-liners that had me laughing.
I feel as though I haven’t done this series justice, but I don’t want to say more without spoiling the first book. Just read this series if you enjoy fast-moving fantasy, with a flock of strong women and some epic action. Also dragons.
September 30, 2016
I think I loved this book just as much as I loved Daughters of the Storm before it. Just like the first in the series, this book revolves around the five sisters of the King of Thyrsland. But it's also four years later, so Rose's young daughter Rowan steps onto the stage and starts being a main influencer in this tale.
Bluebell is off fighting battles (again) when she finally finds out that there is a sword that's been crafted to kill her, and that one of her sisters possesses it. It doesn't take her too long from here to whittle the possibilities down to Willow.
After the events of last book, Willow has given birth to the daughter of their late step brother Wilm. She is very much of the trimartyr faith, and being tutored in swordsplay by Harkon: Bluebell's enemy. She's dangerous, not just because of this, but also because of her blind belief that everything that happens is because of Maava and his angels.
Ivy, Willow's twin, is now the duchess of Saecaster. Only, when her husband dies, she is left to take over the city for her two young boys until they come of age. Because it's a book in this world, this does not go smoothly.
All the while, Ash is running from the fact that her becoming is blighted and trying to find and kill the dragon of her visions so that she'll be able to return home to her family.
This book has a slightly different flavour to the last, however. There was a kind of clinical-ness to the first book in this series, whereas this time we see a happier ending between Rose and Heath, as well as a more or less love match marriage between Bluebell and Rowan's guardian, Snowy. The writing is just as tight as we would expect. The story picks up four years after the last one and just runs with it.
February 11, 2019
3.5 stars
You can read all of my book reviews at https://NerdGirlLovesBooks.wordpress.com
This is the second book in the series. I was at a disadvantage reading this book because I have not read the first book in the series. While there was plenty of back story in the book to let me understand what was going on with the characters, I probably would have liked it more if I'd read the first book. That's on me, not the author.
The book follows the story of five royal sisters that have splintered away from each other to fulfill their own quests. Only Bluebell, the heir of the King, remains in contact with home and works to keep her land safe from invaders. She travels across the land, trying to find her sisters and bring them home. When she is told that one of her sisters is in possession of a magical blade that will kill her, her search becomes more urgent.
Rose is in exile after being cast aside by her husband. Rose's young daughter Rowan was taken away from her. Rowan is being hidden away and cared for by a hunter that treats her like his own daughter. But Rowan's parentage is not as it seems, and learning where she came from has dire consequences.
Ash is on a desperate quest with her teacher to find a dragon and kill it. She is adamant that doing so will save her from her cursed future. While Willow, a religious fanatic, is on her own dangerous quest.
Each chapter of the book is written about a different sister, and they alternate throughout the book. The book is well written, although it was a bit too long. The sister's story unfolded too slow for me. It annoyed me that some of the characters were stuck too long and didn't make any progress, especially Ash and Willow. Overall, I think it was a good book, but I suggest you read book 1 before you read this one.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can read all of my book reviews at https://NerdGirlLovesBooks.wordpress.com
This is the second book in the series. I was at a disadvantage reading this book because I have not read the first book in the series. While there was plenty of back story in the book to let me understand what was going on with the characters, I probably would have liked it more if I'd read the first book. That's on me, not the author.
The book follows the story of five royal sisters that have splintered away from each other to fulfill their own quests. Only Bluebell, the heir of the King, remains in contact with home and works to keep her land safe from invaders. She travels across the land, trying to find her sisters and bring them home. When she is told that one of her sisters is in possession of a magical blade that will kill her, her search becomes more urgent.
Rose is in exile after being cast aside by her husband. Rose's young daughter Rowan was taken away from her. Rowan is being hidden away and cared for by a hunter that treats her like his own daughter. But Rowan's parentage is not as it seems, and learning where she came from has dire consequences.
Ash is on a desperate quest with her teacher to find a dragon and kill it. She is adamant that doing so will save her from her cursed future. While Willow, a religious fanatic, is on her own dangerous quest.
Each chapter of the book is written about a different sister, and they alternate throughout the book. The book is well written, although it was a bit too long. The sister's story unfolded too slow for me. It annoyed me that some of the characters were stuck too long and didn't make any progress, especially Ash and Willow. Overall, I think it was a good book, but I suggest you read book 1 before you read this one.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2018
I was so excited to get my hands on book 2, and it did not disappoint! I think it may even be better than the first, and I absolutely loved the first book. Wilkins is such a great storyteller, and it's so easy to become immersed in the world she's created. One of my favorite things about this series is the way she jumps from character to character and how each of the sisters is so different. I was never once bored while reading. I would easily get caught up in each of their stories, which made it a lot of fun to read. I don't understand how Wilkins does this so seamlessly, but she does, and it's awesome. This book is filled with magic, some pretty awesome fight scenes, relatable characters, and dragons!! I can't wait for book 3!!!
A big thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
A big thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 6, 2019
WHOA! Saying that this is a highly anticipated sequel is very underrated! This book blew me away! I had my own ideas of what was going to happen to these sisters and how this novel was going to play out, but I was wrong in almost every aspect.
If you hadn't yet checked out my review for book one Daughters Of The Storm then head over to it so you can see how these characters first started out.
_______________________________________________________
Ok, so maybe the sisters themselves haven't changed very much in most ways BUT these other characters are what made this book. Here is a small character breakdown for you.
Bluebell: Still the super fierce warrior. Although we do find her soft spot in this one and it was incredible to watch her grow into who she is at the end of this one.
Rose: Oh my sweet sweet Rose. This poor girl has been essentially in hiding for 4 years and now has a son to the one man she never wanted kids with in the first place. Her heart gets thrown around so many times between her old love Heath, the daughter she can never see again, Rowan, her Aunt, and just everything going on in this world. My heart is with this woman, and I was so happy to see her step out of her commands and boundaries!
Ash: Like, what is Ash now? Visually she has made the most distinguished change. There is a part of me that always questioned her mental health in this book. If I could use one word to describe her this book it would be LOST. She is thrown many different ways and mentally I think she just wants it all to end.
Ivy: Oh Ivy, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!? WHAT ARE YOU THINKING? I'm just going to leave it at that....
Willow: I have no words. I didn't like her before and I definitely don't like her now.
Rowan: Oh my goodness she has grown so much. Such a sweet yet fierce little girl. Can't wait for you all to read about her.
Snowy: The man who had been raising Rowan. One of her many "dads" as she would say. Also Bluebell has special feelings for this one.
Unweder: Saw him a little in the last book, and see him a little in this one.
Hakon: Willow's partner in crime. Very unlikable characters.
________________________________________________________
"She learned that anyone who had power and influence in this world had to keep secrets, because they were the hidden glue that held all things together. She liked having secrets."
I loved this one. Sister Of The Fire was full of action, magic, adventure, and emotions. It was told in perspectives of each of the sisters and their struggles that the characters could leap off the page. This was such a compelling magical read with swords and dragons, Kings and Usurpers, blood and fights, Lies and deception.
We got to view these sisters as who they are and the journeys that they believe in. We travel with them on the paths that they take the mental struggles they endure and the emotions that hinder them.
The world building is so complex that you feel like you know the woods, the villages, the castles, etc because they are so detailed and beautifully written.
What is also so amazing is that these sisters each have their own personality. Their own way to "narrate" their pages. They are all so different within each other and I think that is what makes them even more special.
"Not blissful bright-yellow happiness-more of a muted sunset color- but happiness nonetheless."
Can I get book 3 NOW?
This is going to be such an amazing trilogy and I can't wait to read the conclusion because I am already slumming after this one. I have no idea how to move on into my next reading adventure because I'm still living in this one.
Until Next Time,
Brittany @DauntlessReading
If you hadn't yet checked out my review for book one Daughters Of The Storm then head over to it so you can see how these characters first started out.
_______________________________________________________
Ok, so maybe the sisters themselves haven't changed very much in most ways BUT these other characters are what made this book. Here is a small character breakdown for you.
Bluebell: Still the super fierce warrior. Although we do find her soft spot in this one and it was incredible to watch her grow into who she is at the end of this one.
Rose: Oh my sweet sweet Rose. This poor girl has been essentially in hiding for 4 years and now has a son to the one man she never wanted kids with in the first place. Her heart gets thrown around so many times between her old love Heath, the daughter she can never see again, Rowan, her Aunt, and just everything going on in this world. My heart is with this woman, and I was so happy to see her step out of her commands and boundaries!
Ash: Like, what is Ash now? Visually she has made the most distinguished change. There is a part of me that always questioned her mental health in this book. If I could use one word to describe her this book it would be LOST. She is thrown many different ways and mentally I think she just wants it all to end.
Ivy: Oh Ivy, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!? WHAT ARE YOU THINKING? I'm just going to leave it at that....
Willow: I have no words. I didn't like her before and I definitely don't like her now.
Rowan: Oh my goodness she has grown so much. Such a sweet yet fierce little girl. Can't wait for you all to read about her.
Snowy: The man who had been raising Rowan. One of her many "dads" as she would say. Also Bluebell has special feelings for this one.
Unweder: Saw him a little in the last book, and see him a little in this one.
Hakon: Willow's partner in crime. Very unlikable characters.
________________________________________________________
"She learned that anyone who had power and influence in this world had to keep secrets, because they were the hidden glue that held all things together. She liked having secrets."
I loved this one. Sister Of The Fire was full of action, magic, adventure, and emotions. It was told in perspectives of each of the sisters and their struggles that the characters could leap off the page. This was such a compelling magical read with swords and dragons, Kings and Usurpers, blood and fights, Lies and deception.
We got to view these sisters as who they are and the journeys that they believe in. We travel with them on the paths that they take the mental struggles they endure and the emotions that hinder them.
The world building is so complex that you feel like you know the woods, the villages, the castles, etc because they are so detailed and beautifully written.
What is also so amazing is that these sisters each have their own personality. Their own way to "narrate" their pages. They are all so different within each other and I think that is what makes them even more special.
"Not blissful bright-yellow happiness-more of a muted sunset color- but happiness nonetheless."
Can I get book 3 NOW?
This is going to be such an amazing trilogy and I can't wait to read the conclusion because I am already slumming after this one. I have no idea how to move on into my next reading adventure because I'm still living in this one.
Until Next Time,
Brittany @DauntlessReading
February 4, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this book free from Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
I am so happy I stayed with this series!. I read and reviewed the first book, Daughters of the Storm, months ago and while I liked it, I wasn’t really sure if it would pan out for me. Now that I’ve read this second book in the series I feel it has panned out in spades and just keeps getting better as it goes along.
The focus of this story is on five sisters. The setting is somewhat reminiscent of a Engish/Nordic/Viking, and the women are all daughters of one of the kings of Thrysland. The main characters are all so completely different, and the choices they made in the first book are now coming back to haunt them to differing degrees.
When it comes to reading a series, I frequently will re-read the first book in order to catch myself up on the story again. I have a bad habit of losing the plot thread in between books. I didn’t go for the re-read this time because I wanted to get it finished before the release date tomorrow, and I am so pleased that it didn’t bother me a bit. There is very little lag between the two novels even though there is a 4 year gap in the story line. The author did a great job of reminding the reader of the main story points without interrupting the flow. The plot progression is very strong.
When it comes to the characters, I still have very particular favorites, Bluebell and Ash being foremost, but this book introduces a new character, Rowan, who threatens to supplant them both in my heart. I will be so excited to read more about her in the next book, as I’m quite sure she will be playing a very large part in the story. That being said, I’m absolutely not sure what is going to happen next. I feel like we’ve reached a drop off point. Some of the major questions of the first book have been tied up to a certain degree, and this is usually the point where a story wraps up it’s threads and puts itself to bed. But this is book two. This means I have no idea where the story is going. That sounds bad … what I means is it’s become unpredictable in the best of ways.
I look forward to book three, I want to know what will happen to these women. I’ll be refreshing Netgalley constantly on the look out for the next installment.
Song for this book: Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin
I am so happy I stayed with this series!. I read and reviewed the first book, Daughters of the Storm, months ago and while I liked it, I wasn’t really sure if it would pan out for me. Now that I’ve read this second book in the series I feel it has panned out in spades and just keeps getting better as it goes along.
The focus of this story is on five sisters. The setting is somewhat reminiscent of a Engish/Nordic/Viking, and the women are all daughters of one of the kings of Thrysland. The main characters are all so completely different, and the choices they made in the first book are now coming back to haunt them to differing degrees.
When it comes to reading a series, I frequently will re-read the first book in order to catch myself up on the story again. I have a bad habit of losing the plot thread in between books. I didn’t go for the re-read this time because I wanted to get it finished before the release date tomorrow, and I am so pleased that it didn’t bother me a bit. There is very little lag between the two novels even though there is a 4 year gap in the story line. The author did a great job of reminding the reader of the main story points without interrupting the flow. The plot progression is very strong.
When it comes to the characters, I still have very particular favorites, Bluebell and Ash being foremost, but this book introduces a new character, Rowan, who threatens to supplant them both in my heart. I will be so excited to read more about her in the next book, as I’m quite sure she will be playing a very large part in the story. That being said, I’m absolutely not sure what is going to happen next. I feel like we’ve reached a drop off point. Some of the major questions of the first book have been tied up to a certain degree, and this is usually the point where a story wraps up it’s threads and puts itself to bed. But this is book two. This means I have no idea where the story is going. That sounds bad … what I means is it’s become unpredictable in the best of ways.
I look forward to book three, I want to know what will happen to these women. I’ll be refreshing Netgalley constantly on the look out for the next installment.
Song for this book: Immigrant Song by Led Zeppelin
January 27, 2019
The illustration of this book cover is beautiful. I love the colors along the five females and dragon in the background. It conveyed beautifully with this story.
If you enjoy
Journey
Adventures
Fast paced actions
Princesses
King
Strong women
Heirs
Villians
War
Thrones
Elemental Mage
Warrior
Zealot
Violence
War
Sarcasm
Hints of romance
and of course,
Dragon
Then this epic fantasy is for you if you're an adult. Finally! Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy YA Fantasy, but it's nice if we have adult fantasy from time to time. The author does not hold back on her awesome characters. Raw, gritty, down to earth, bar none truths, flaws flavored them which make them impressive and realistic.
First of all, I did not know this was a second book after The Daughters of the Storm. I need to read that book to make sure I didn't miss anything crucial before the third book comes out. The story starts four years after the first book. It focuses separately on Bluebell, Rose, Ivy, Ash, and Willow at first before intricately woven together in this magical storytelling spell. The author managed to keep my interest in this fast-paced novel with her rich and complex characters without losing me one bit.
I practically devoured this book within a couple of hours. There were 448 pages. I love it! I don't know why this book isn't even pushed hard publicly. I saw this book has a lot of high praises and high reviews rightfully so. We need to spread the news how fantastic this book is! I can't wait to get my hands on The Daughters of the Storm and when the next novel comes out.
Do yourself a favor, Get.This.Book. Don't take my words for it.
At this moment, I'm going to give this magical novel a four star until I read the other two books.
I received this entertaining ARC from Del Rey through Net Galley for my honest and unbiased review. Thank you!
If you enjoy
Journey
Adventures
Fast paced actions
Princesses
King
Strong women
Heirs
Villians
War
Thrones
Elemental Mage
Warrior
Zealot
Violence
War
Sarcasm
Hints of romance
and of course,
Dragon
Then this epic fantasy is for you if you're an adult. Finally! Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy YA Fantasy, but it's nice if we have adult fantasy from time to time. The author does not hold back on her awesome characters. Raw, gritty, down to earth, bar none truths, flaws flavored them which make them impressive and realistic.
First of all, I did not know this was a second book after The Daughters of the Storm. I need to read that book to make sure I didn't miss anything crucial before the third book comes out. The story starts four years after the first book. It focuses separately on Bluebell, Rose, Ivy, Ash, and Willow at first before intricately woven together in this magical storytelling spell. The author managed to keep my interest in this fast-paced novel with her rich and complex characters without losing me one bit.
I practically devoured this book within a couple of hours. There were 448 pages. I love it! I don't know why this book isn't even pushed hard publicly. I saw this book has a lot of high praises and high reviews rightfully so. We need to spread the news how fantastic this book is! I can't wait to get my hands on The Daughters of the Storm and when the next novel comes out.
Do yourself a favor, Get.This.Book. Don't take my words for it.
At this moment, I'm going to give this magical novel a four star until I read the other two books.
I received this entertaining ARC from Del Rey through Net Galley for my honest and unbiased review. Thank you!
February 5, 2019
Kim Wilkins' Blood and Gold series is the sweeping epic fantasy series that I've been looking for. Book two, Sisters of the Fire is packed full of strong, courageous ladies taking control of their futures.
In Sisters of the Fire we follow the daughters of the Storm King Bluebell, Willow, Ash, Rose, Ivy and his granddaughter Rowan as they lead their separate lives woven together by fate, circumstance and political plot. Much like Game of Thrones, there are sections from the point of view of each of the leading ladies, and even a few side characters - all woven together by complex political machinations. Unlike Game of Thrones, it's not unbearably depressing. Sisters of the Fire certainly has dire situations and epic battles, but has a decidedly more hopeful tone than the bleak GoT.
Plots and conspiracies abound in Sisters of the Fire and the book is an absolute page-turner. Each of the sisters (and Rowan) is very different and have very different motivations and desires for their lives. They're well fleshed out, and engaging characters, written to frustrate and delight. Bluebell and Ash are my favorite sisters, and it's difficult not to adore Rowan as well.
This sweeping epic isn't without its flaws however. With five adult women leading the show, you'd think that at least one of them might be queer, but no. Alas this book is very, very straight. I also found some of the pieces that should have been twists as somewhat predictable. Especially later in the book, it felt like Wilkins was just a little too heavy handed with her hints so by the time some of the twists came about, I had already seen them coming.
Sisters of the Fire is on shelves now.
Thank you to Del Rey for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
In Sisters of the Fire we follow the daughters of the Storm King Bluebell, Willow, Ash, Rose, Ivy and his granddaughter Rowan as they lead their separate lives woven together by fate, circumstance and political plot. Much like Game of Thrones, there are sections from the point of view of each of the leading ladies, and even a few side characters - all woven together by complex political machinations. Unlike Game of Thrones, it's not unbearably depressing. Sisters of the Fire certainly has dire situations and epic battles, but has a decidedly more hopeful tone than the bleak GoT.
Plots and conspiracies abound in Sisters of the Fire and the book is an absolute page-turner. Each of the sisters (and Rowan) is very different and have very different motivations and desires for their lives. They're well fleshed out, and engaging characters, written to frustrate and delight. Bluebell and Ash are my favorite sisters, and it's difficult not to adore Rowan as well.
This sweeping epic isn't without its flaws however. With five adult women leading the show, you'd think that at least one of them might be queer, but no. Alas this book is very, very straight. I also found some of the pieces that should have been twists as somewhat predictable. Especially later in the book, it felt like Wilkins was just a little too heavy handed with her hints so by the time some of the twists came about, I had already seen them coming.
Sisters of the Fire is on shelves now.
Thank you to Del Rey for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 7, 2022
I read the first book and thought it was decent.
This book is less than decent. I find it really hard to let myself not finish a book, but here we are.
Maybe it's just the place I am in life right now but I could not get back into caring about the characters like I want to to finish. I read every night before bed and I find myself in my phone instead if finishing this book!
It moved slowly and didn't flow well.
Plus I can't even get the last book of the series anywhere except an audiobook, which I don't prefer so it's harder for me to comprehend the plot unless I really like the book.
I wanted to like it. I really did!
This book is less than decent. I find it really hard to let myself not finish a book, but here we are.
Maybe it's just the place I am in life right now but I could not get back into caring about the characters like I want to to finish. I read every night before bed and I find myself in my phone instead if finishing this book!
It moved slowly and didn't flow well.
Plus I can't even get the last book of the series anywhere except an audiobook, which I don't prefer so it's harder for me to comprehend the plot unless I really like the book.
I wanted to like it. I really did!
May 9, 2019
Un tome 2 moins bon que le premier, qui n'a pas su tenir ses promesses.
August 1, 2016
I devoured this in mere hours. If you haven't yet read Daughters of the Storm tread carefully going forward, as there may be slight spoilers for the first book within this review. Seriously, go get it now - there are few books I recommend as highly as Lies of Locke Lamora, but this series is one of them.
Four years have passed since the first book, so Ivy and Willow (the younger sisters) have grown a little - as has Rowan, Rose's daughter, who hasn't seen her for all this time (though she hasn't exactly been alone). The King is still alive however he worries when Bluebell leaves for too long, fearing how old he is getting. Ash is on the move, trying to complete a quest that will mean she destroys her fate, missing her family and turning into barely a shadow of her previous self. Rose is with their aunt from the first book, until she gets a note one day from someone she's never met, but has heard of her from a certain someone, and has something of vital importance to tell her... if she can reach them in time.
Bluebell has a kingdom to run in the name of her father. She leads her band of fighters dealing out a king's justice, whether that means dropping everything instantly to find out why a group of people never returned when they should have, or checking in on her favourite niece to see how her bow arm is going.
As in the first book, the plot magically ties everyone together in such a believable yet adventurous way that at the start you could never see how x and y could meet together again, until Wilkins makes it happen, and makes it happen well. The character development of the characters, especially the younger and the newer, is a joy to experience. The threat that lies restlessly for many of the characters feels real and dangerous, and there are many instances where you can't put the book down for anything because you just have to know what happens next, so don't start if you then have to go into a meeting or somewhere that will keep you from reading more immediately.
This book is so good that it's stressful to read, because as you see the pages dwindling away, and as the plot unfolds around you at the very end you're so damn worried for so many characters and you worry Wilkins will take your favourites away from you. Rowan is quickly growing to be a favourite - as epic as Bluebell, yet also scarily patient. I can't wait to see how she develops.
After this ending, the wait for the third is going to be so damn hard.
Four years have passed since the first book, so Ivy and Willow (the younger sisters) have grown a little - as has Rowan, Rose's daughter, who hasn't seen her for all this time (though she hasn't exactly been alone). The King is still alive however he worries when Bluebell leaves for too long, fearing how old he is getting. Ash is on the move, trying to complete a quest that will mean she destroys her fate, missing her family and turning into barely a shadow of her previous self. Rose is with their aunt from the first book, until she gets a note one day from someone she's never met, but has heard of her from a certain someone, and has something of vital importance to tell her... if she can reach them in time.
Bluebell has a kingdom to run in the name of her father. She leads her band of fighters dealing out a king's justice, whether that means dropping everything instantly to find out why a group of people never returned when they should have, or checking in on her favourite niece to see how her bow arm is going.
As in the first book, the plot magically ties everyone together in such a believable yet adventurous way that at the start you could never see how x and y could meet together again, until Wilkins makes it happen, and makes it happen well. The character development of the characters, especially the younger and the newer, is a joy to experience. The threat that lies restlessly for many of the characters feels real and dangerous, and there are many instances where you can't put the book down for anything because you just have to know what happens next, so don't start if you then have to go into a meeting or somewhere that will keep you from reading more immediately.
This book is so good that it's stressful to read, because as you see the pages dwindling away, and as the plot unfolds around you at the very end you're so damn worried for so many characters and you worry Wilkins will take your favourites away from you. Rowan is quickly growing to be a favourite - as epic as Bluebell, yet also scarily patient. I can't wait to see how she develops.
After this ending, the wait for the third is going to be so damn hard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2018
(Disclaimer: I received this free book from Netgalley. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
The bottom line is if you like stories featuring strong women, sisters with complex relationships, fights, and love, dragons, and multiple perspectives, you have to read the Blood and Gold series. From the beginning I was hooked all over again on these fabulous women. They each have such a strong personality and you never lose track of who they are. Fierce, strong, intelligent, and cunning.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
The bottom line is if you like stories featuring strong women, sisters with complex relationships, fights, and love, dragons, and multiple perspectives, you have to read the Blood and Gold series. From the beginning I was hooked all over again on these fabulous women. They each have such a strong personality and you never lose track of who they are. Fierce, strong, intelligent, and cunning.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
August 28, 2016
I received this novel as an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly, I began reading this book without knowing that it was part of a series. When I realized this, I tried to hunt down the first novel but unfortunately was unable to find it or order a copy of it. I continued reading this novel in spite of that, and I am SO GLAD that I did! Here is my review:
Five sisters, each unique, and each destined for something that they could never imagine...One is a gifted magician named Ash, who has set off on a journey to find a dragon that could destroy those she holds dear. The beautiful, unhappy Rose longs for her daughter, Rowan, and decides to go on a harrowing mission to get her back. Ivy, married for the sake of an alliance, sets her sight on becoming the Duchess of Seacaster. Willow, a fanatic of the religious order Maava, has decided to dedicate her life and that of her child's to ridding the kingdom of all those who do not believe in her faith. And Bluebell, the battle-scarred warrior princess and heir to the throne, hears rumors of a sword that was wrought to kill her and must now face a foe who once was her friend.
From one journey to the next, the story follows these five sisters. The choices they make along the way can either hold their kingdom together, or land it in utter chaos.
This book is fantastic! The personalities and behaviours of each sister are vastly different, which makes it so fun to read! The story line connects well and the author has clearly developed the plot in a way where everything works. The fantasy aspects are interesting to read. I was hooked from page one. It didn't matter that I hadn't read the previous novel in the story; I was able to follow along and enjoy the ride all the same! This novel is fast-paced, well-written, and so exciting that I simply could not put it down! I cannot wait until the next book in the series. If you love fantasy and strong female leads, then this is the novel to try!
Firstly, I began reading this book without knowing that it was part of a series. When I realized this, I tried to hunt down the first novel but unfortunately was unable to find it or order a copy of it. I continued reading this novel in spite of that, and I am SO GLAD that I did! Here is my review:
Five sisters, each unique, and each destined for something that they could never imagine...One is a gifted magician named Ash, who has set off on a journey to find a dragon that could destroy those she holds dear. The beautiful, unhappy Rose longs for her daughter, Rowan, and decides to go on a harrowing mission to get her back. Ivy, married for the sake of an alliance, sets her sight on becoming the Duchess of Seacaster. Willow, a fanatic of the religious order Maava, has decided to dedicate her life and that of her child's to ridding the kingdom of all those who do not believe in her faith. And Bluebell, the battle-scarred warrior princess and heir to the throne, hears rumors of a sword that was wrought to kill her and must now face a foe who once was her friend.
From one journey to the next, the story follows these five sisters. The choices they make along the way can either hold their kingdom together, or land it in utter chaos.
This book is fantastic! The personalities and behaviours of each sister are vastly different, which makes it so fun to read! The story line connects well and the author has clearly developed the plot in a way where everything works. The fantasy aspects are interesting to read. I was hooked from page one. It didn't matter that I hadn't read the previous novel in the story; I was able to follow along and enjoy the ride all the same! This novel is fast-paced, well-written, and so exciting that I simply could not put it down! I cannot wait until the next book in the series. If you love fantasy and strong female leads, then this is the novel to try!
August 30, 2016
Sisters of the Fire (Blood and Gold #2)
by Kim Wilkins is one of a series, and when I requested to read this book from NetGalley, I was not aware it was not the first book. I think if I had read the first one first, I would have liked this one more. I felt kind of detached from the book for about the first 10% and then once I found my footing with all the inter language the book contained, it was more interesting. That being said, I didn't ever really feel connected to any of the characters.
Also, the book was very gritty and blaze about relationships and sex. It was as if family was not important and morality was out the window. I did like that Bluebell stood up for her beliefs and that she did not let women be bullied when she was around.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
by Kim Wilkins is one of a series, and when I requested to read this book from NetGalley, I was not aware it was not the first book. I think if I had read the first one first, I would have liked this one more. I felt kind of detached from the book for about the first 10% and then once I found my footing with all the inter language the book contained, it was more interesting. That being said, I didn't ever really feel connected to any of the characters.
Also, the book was very gritty and blaze about relationships and sex. It was as if family was not important and morality was out the window. I did like that Bluebell stood up for her beliefs and that she did not let women be bullied when she was around.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
October 10, 2017
Sisters of the Fire is the second in a new fantasy series by one of my favourite Australian writers, Kim Wilkins, following on from Daughters of the Storm. The story follows the adventures and misadventures of five sisters in a world very much like ancient Britain. There is Bluebell the warrior, Ash who is tormented by her ability to see the future, Rose who gambled all for love, Ivy who was sold into marriage for her father’s power, and Willow who plots against them all. The writing is elegant and lucid, and the story unspools swiftly and strongly. Filled with action, intrigue and a little bit of romance, this is one of the best fantasy series I’ve read in a long while.
August 28, 2016
Thank you Netgally for a copy of this title in exchange of an honest review.
Well, it is so good having Kim Wilkins writing under her name again, I do love Kimberley Frreman titles but I LOVE Kim so much more.
Rich in history, strong female characters and a fair bit of magic is what makes this series flow so easy.
I love this series and cannot wait for the next book.
Good to see you back Kim.
Well, it is so good having Kim Wilkins writing under her name again, I do love Kimberley Frreman titles but I LOVE Kim so much more.
Rich in history, strong female characters and a fair bit of magic is what makes this series flow so easy.
I love this series and cannot wait for the next book.
Good to see you back Kim.
April 3, 2019
Holy. Cow. That was amazing!
Like I said in my review of Daughters of the Storm, I was cautious going into this series because I have been burned waaaay too many times by fantasy titles coming out of the tradpub houses these days. It's like nobody in the insular NYC publishing scene knows what appeals to regular people who don't want to be bashed over the head with trite political commentary in their sword and sorcery fantasy.
But somehow, Kim Wilkins slipped through the cracks and brought us a cracking good fantasy tale of five sisters, daughters of a king, who are as different as five people could possibly be. And not only that, they're all LIKABLE on some level (well, Willow still needs a good kick in the rear end, but she has her moments. I still feel like she's going to see the error of her ways. Whether that's milliseconds before she bites the dust... well, that's up to the author to decide). The world is vivid and interesting, I feel like I know the players in this conflict and WHY they act the way that they do, and I want more!
Bluebell could have been the typical ball-buster, man-with-boobs female character that a lot of fantasy has given us, but she actually has some heart and depth to her character. She cares about her family, her kingdom, and she even has a love-interest in a way that completely makes sense for her. I want to see her rule and lead Alimissia and defeat all these trimartyr nuts.
Ash is great too. At first, I thought she'd be kind of wilty and weak, but she got some amazing moments toward the end. Even earlier on, when Bluebell finally caught up with her - I thought they teamed up rather well. I can see where she's going to be a great asset to Bluebell in whatever conflict is coming.
Rose grew up - FINALLY. One complaint I had about her in the last book was how wimpy she was, always whining about Heath and keeping that relationship a secret. But now that she's had time away from Heath and Wengest, she's come into her own. For a while, I forgot that Heath was even in this book.
Ivy... well, even Ivy's actions make sense for her character, even if she, too, needs some sense kicked into her. She did try to follow Bluebell's advice, but it ended very poorly. Mostly because of the twit she saddled herself with before her husband died. I had hoped giving her some responsibility with her two sons would mature her a bit. And it did... just not enough. Well... the total Charley-Foxtrot that she turned her kingdom into brought the main conflict into the forefront, so the story didn't turn into Boring Political Discourse: The Novel.
Willow. I have no idea what's going to happen with her, but it really needs to happen soon. Remember how I said Rose kind of annoyed me with her whining about Heath in the first book? If I hear Willow whine about Maava one more time, I'm going to find a way to reach into the book world and throttle her. And what in the ever-loving CRAP has she done to her poor daughter? The girl wasn't in the book much, but I have a feeling that she's going to come back with a vengeance in Book 3.
Speaking of the kids of these sisters, can we get a big hand for Princess Rowan? The girl is being used as a pawn between kings of all realms, and she ends up just doing her own thing and screw anyone else who crosses her. Bluebell's the only one giving the girl any sane advice (well, Snowy helps too) and she's shaping up to be my favorite character in this story. Honestly, she's probably going to end up ruling over everybody when all is said and done.
Just to give a clearer picture of how much I adore Rowan, I have a page of quotes from her that I wrote down because I love how she thinks and processes everything going on. She's just awesome.
Okay, I'm just going to say it - this is Game of Thrones if GoT wasn't bogged down with too many characters, too much boring monologuing, not enough payoff, and an author who actually gave a crap about the series they started. The ideas of conflicting kingdoms and families with a smattering of politicking colored with traditional sword-and-sorcery trappings, plus a shadowy outside magical entity lurking on the edges of what's going on, then you throw in dragons - it's all here! And a million times more coherent and interesting.
If you're sick of waiting for GRRM to get off his duff and finish his series, or if you gave up on him because of boredom (like I did), but you still think some of his ideas could be interesting if done properly, I have no hesitation in recommending this series to you.
Now that I've said that, I hope I don't have to wait too long for Queens of the Sea to come out.
Like I said in my review of Daughters of the Storm, I was cautious going into this series because I have been burned waaaay too many times by fantasy titles coming out of the tradpub houses these days. It's like nobody in the insular NYC publishing scene knows what appeals to regular people who don't want to be bashed over the head with trite political commentary in their sword and sorcery fantasy.
But somehow, Kim Wilkins slipped through the cracks and brought us a cracking good fantasy tale of five sisters, daughters of a king, who are as different as five people could possibly be. And not only that, they're all LIKABLE on some level (well, Willow still needs a good kick in the rear end, but she has her moments. I still feel like she's going to see the error of her ways. Whether that's milliseconds before she bites the dust... well, that's up to the author to decide). The world is vivid and interesting, I feel like I know the players in this conflict and WHY they act the way that they do, and I want more!
Bluebell could have been the typical ball-buster, man-with-boobs female character that a lot of fantasy has given us, but she actually has some heart and depth to her character. She cares about her family, her kingdom, and she even has a love-interest in a way that completely makes sense for her. I want to see her rule and lead Alimissia and defeat all these trimartyr nuts.
Ash is great too. At first, I thought she'd be kind of wilty and weak, but she got some amazing moments toward the end. Even earlier on, when Bluebell finally caught up with her - I thought they teamed up rather well. I can see where she's going to be a great asset to Bluebell in whatever conflict is coming.
Rose grew up - FINALLY. One complaint I had about her in the last book was how wimpy she was, always whining about Heath and keeping that relationship a secret. But now that she's had time away from Heath and Wengest, she's come into her own. For a while, I forgot that Heath was even in this book.
Ivy... well, even Ivy's actions make sense for her character, even if she, too, needs some sense kicked into her. She did try to follow Bluebell's advice, but it ended very poorly. Mostly because of the twit she saddled herself with before her husband died. I had hoped giving her some responsibility with her two sons would mature her a bit. And it did... just not enough. Well... the total Charley-Foxtrot that she turned her kingdom into brought the main conflict into the forefront, so the story didn't turn into Boring Political Discourse: The Novel.
Willow. I have no idea what's going to happen with her, but it really needs to happen soon. Remember how I said Rose kind of annoyed me with her whining about Heath in the first book? If I hear Willow whine about Maava one more time, I'm going to find a way to reach into the book world and throttle her. And what in the ever-loving CRAP has she done to her poor daughter? The girl wasn't in the book much, but I have a feeling that she's going to come back with a vengeance in Book 3.
Speaking of the kids of these sisters, can we get a big hand for Princess Rowan? The girl is being used as a pawn between kings of all realms, and she ends up just doing her own thing and screw anyone else who crosses her. Bluebell's the only one giving the girl any sane advice (well, Snowy helps too) and she's shaping up to be my favorite character in this story. Honestly, she's probably going to end up ruling over everybody when all is said and done.
Just to give a clearer picture of how much I adore Rowan, I have a page of quotes from her that I wrote down because I love how she thinks and processes everything going on. She's just awesome.
Okay, I'm just going to say it - this is Game of Thrones if GoT wasn't bogged down with too many characters, too much boring monologuing, not enough payoff, and an author who actually gave a crap about the series they started. The ideas of conflicting kingdoms and families with a smattering of politicking colored with traditional sword-and-sorcery trappings, plus a shadowy outside magical entity lurking on the edges of what's going on, then you throw in dragons - it's all here! And a million times more coherent and interesting.
If you're sick of waiting for GRRM to get off his duff and finish his series, or if you gave up on him because of boredom (like I did), but you still think some of his ideas could be interesting if done properly, I have no hesitation in recommending this series to you.
Now that I've said that, I hope I don't have to wait too long for Queens of the Sea to come out.
December 12, 2018
Note: I requested a copy of this book through NetGalley and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
So I made a mistake. When I was reading the monthly NetGalley newsletter I came across the synopsis for Sisters of Fire by Kim Wilkins and I thought it sounded amazing, so what did I do, I requested it and was surprisingly approved. It wasn't until after I downloaded the galley that I realized that Sisters of Fire is the second book in the series and I have not read the first. I knew with my budget I couldn't get the first book before the galley was to be released so I had no other option but to go forward and read the second book first and let me tell you, it was amazeballs.
I thought by not reading the first book I was screwed but I was wrong. The way Kim told the story I felt like I got the gist of what went down in the first book and all of the most important information. While I do regret not reading the first book first I feel that me not reading it didn't take away from the Sisters of Fire book.
Sisters of Fire is what I imagine Game of Thrones must be like cause I never actually read/seen it. This was a high fantasy with all the dirty grim of the times with crazy magic, betrayal, warring religions, death, supernaturals and an overall sense of bat-shit crazy. The things that happened in this book! I was ready for shit to go down at anytime, the secrets that everyone was keeping that I was just waiting for someone to drag someone's dark deeds into the light and I was not disappointed.
Kim has a lot of themes going on in this book. On one had there is a religion that has gods and is added in the supernatural in a way and within this religion there is a lot of women empowerment, a girl is called my lord and will be king, not queen but king someday. However there is an opposite religion that put women at unspeakable vulnerability because men are held in higher esteem and hold all the power. There are hints at mental illness and the times are portrayed harder than I have seen in other books, it seem more true-to-form in some way.
Sisters of Fire have such complex characters that have multiple sides to them and are trying to do what they feel is best in their own way. The sisters were all so different, Bluebell the fierce warrior, Ash the undermagican, Rose who is passionate, Ivy who believes in living her whole life and Willow who is a zealot. Each of these sisters have both good and bad qualities and have to go through something in order to grow. While some have grown a lot or a little but another still has a lot of work that needs to be done.
My favorite characters are Rowan, Ash and Bluebell. Ash is trying hard to stop a future she has seen from happening, she has all this power but she tries not to abuse it, she just wants her family say and will sacrifice to make that happen. It takes a special kind of determination and strength to do what Ash does. As for Bluebell she is strong, brave and loves her family with whole being. She does the hard things to stop others in her family from suffering more than they have to and you just have to admire that kind of quality in a person. My favorite character is a seven-year old, Rowan, she is the best, a little beast in the making. Rowan has so many adult qualities for a child, she is special in so many ways and have so many burdens thrust upon her and she takes it all in stride. She tries to be true to herself while also being what the people she loves need her to be. Rowan is strong, brave and certain in a way that a lot of people, adults included, aren't.
As for the rest of the story, the action was very good when it happened but it was all the little clues that pointed to that crazy ending that had me hooked. I was waiting for the next thing to happen or for certain characters to find out all the information that I already knew and they didn't. I wanted to scream at certain characters to hurry up and get the clue. I loved the characters so much. This story was at its heart about a family and what goes on in a family, all the crazy, mean and complicated stuff that occurs in a family but with magic and swords.
Sisters of Fire was a fantastic story and I can't wait to read the next book. After the Sisters of Fire ending I have some major questions that I hoped to be answered. I also hope to hear from Rowan again cause like I said my favorite character, I can't wait to see what else will happen with her. One thing is for sure, this story is far from over and I am so happy about it.
So I made a mistake. When I was reading the monthly NetGalley newsletter I came across the synopsis for Sisters of Fire by Kim Wilkins and I thought it sounded amazing, so what did I do, I requested it and was surprisingly approved. It wasn't until after I downloaded the galley that I realized that Sisters of Fire is the second book in the series and I have not read the first. I knew with my budget I couldn't get the first book before the galley was to be released so I had no other option but to go forward and read the second book first and let me tell you, it was amazeballs.
I thought by not reading the first book I was screwed but I was wrong. The way Kim told the story I felt like I got the gist of what went down in the first book and all of the most important information. While I do regret not reading the first book first I feel that me not reading it didn't take away from the Sisters of Fire book.
Sisters of Fire is what I imagine Game of Thrones must be like cause I never actually read/seen it. This was a high fantasy with all the dirty grim of the times with crazy magic, betrayal, warring religions, death, supernaturals and an overall sense of bat-shit crazy. The things that happened in this book! I was ready for shit to go down at anytime, the secrets that everyone was keeping that I was just waiting for someone to drag someone's dark deeds into the light and I was not disappointed.
Kim has a lot of themes going on in this book. On one had there is a religion that has gods and is added in the supernatural in a way and within this religion there is a lot of women empowerment, a girl is called my lord and will be king, not queen but king someday. However there is an opposite religion that put women at unspeakable vulnerability because men are held in higher esteem and hold all the power. There are hints at mental illness and the times are portrayed harder than I have seen in other books, it seem more true-to-form in some way.
Sisters of Fire have such complex characters that have multiple sides to them and are trying to do what they feel is best in their own way. The sisters were all so different, Bluebell the fierce warrior, Ash the undermagican, Rose who is passionate, Ivy who believes in living her whole life and Willow who is a zealot. Each of these sisters have both good and bad qualities and have to go through something in order to grow. While some have grown a lot or a little but another still has a lot of work that needs to be done.
My favorite characters are Rowan, Ash and Bluebell. Ash is trying hard to stop a future she has seen from happening, she has all this power but she tries not to abuse it, she just wants her family say and will sacrifice to make that happen. It takes a special kind of determination and strength to do what Ash does. As for Bluebell she is strong, brave and loves her family with whole being. She does the hard things to stop others in her family from suffering more than they have to and you just have to admire that kind of quality in a person. My favorite character is a seven-year old, Rowan, she is the best, a little beast in the making. Rowan has so many adult qualities for a child, she is special in so many ways and have so many burdens thrust upon her and she takes it all in stride. She tries to be true to herself while also being what the people she loves need her to be. Rowan is strong, brave and certain in a way that a lot of people, adults included, aren't.
As for the rest of the story, the action was very good when it happened but it was all the little clues that pointed to that crazy ending that had me hooked. I was waiting for the next thing to happen or for certain characters to find out all the information that I already knew and they didn't. I wanted to scream at certain characters to hurry up and get the clue. I loved the characters so much. This story was at its heart about a family and what goes on in a family, all the crazy, mean and complicated stuff that occurs in a family but with magic and swords.
Sisters of Fire was a fantastic story and I can't wait to read the next book. After the Sisters of Fire ending I have some major questions that I hoped to be answered. I also hope to hear from Rowan again cause like I said my favorite character, I can't wait to see what else will happen with her. One thing is for sure, this story is far from over and I am so happy about it.
January 15, 2019
This is an ARC that I won from a Giveaway that Del Rey was having on Instagram. Thank you again, Del Rey!
I am a little confused though because the book is being released in the U.S. on February 2, 2019 but was released elsewhere in 2016, and some of the reviews on Goodreads are from 2 years ago. So, is this still an ARC?
Whatever it is, I enjoyed this second book in the trilogy. There is some fun action and it's to the point. The description doesn't drag on and on. I would say it was more character driven. The characters, especially the sisters are well written and are diverse in their personalities. I certainly have my favorites sisters that I root for and ones that I want to smack across the head. I'll elaborate more below so beware of spoilers.
One major critique I have is that only one of the sisters is literate. That just baffles me. How are royal princesses illiterate? It makes no sense. In a world were most of the people are illiterate it's the rulers, the rich, and the clergy that CAN read. So I wasn't too keen about that.
On to the characters. My favorites:
Bluebell's quest was one of the strongest plots. It connected the sisters and drove the story forward. I do wish her romantic story had been more developed but I liked her love interest, Skalmir, and
Rose really grew in maturity. I feel like this time she took a backseat to Bluebell, Ash and Willow, but her quest to find her daughter was a strong maternal one and I felt for her when
Rowan is growing into my favorite character next to Bluebell. I wish there had been more from her POV when she I loved how the prologue and epilogue centered around her keeping secrets and is shaping her into a future ruler.
Ash felt bad for her isolation and the abuse she suffered. The end was satisfying when
Ugh, these two:
I was really hoping Ivy would have grown into a smart and mature woman but she is just as naive and annoying. If you're going to She is so dumb her story did not really interest me all that much.
Willow I hate because she That being said, her story was interesting to read because she and Hakon are a good antagonists to Bluebell. After the conclusion of Daughters of the Storm I thought
I really liked how Sisters of the Fire moved the story forward. The plots and characters were well developed, and the separate stories matched up well. I am looking forward to the conclusion in book 3, Queens of the Sea.
3.5 out of 5 Dragons
I am a little confused though because the book is being released in the U.S. on February 2, 2019 but was released elsewhere in 2016, and some of the reviews on Goodreads are from 2 years ago. So, is this still an ARC?
Whatever it is, I enjoyed this second book in the trilogy. There is some fun action and it's to the point. The description doesn't drag on and on. I would say it was more character driven. The characters, especially the sisters are well written and are diverse in their personalities. I certainly have my favorites sisters that I root for and ones that I want to smack across the head. I'll elaborate more below so beware of spoilers.
One major critique I have is that only one of the sisters is literate. That just baffles me. How are royal princesses illiterate? It makes no sense. In a world were most of the people are illiterate it's the rulers, the rich, and the clergy that CAN read. So I wasn't too keen about that.
On to the characters. My favorites:
Bluebell's quest was one of the strongest plots. It connected the sisters and drove the story forward. I do wish her romantic story had been more developed but I liked her love interest, Skalmir, and
Rose really grew in maturity. I feel like this time she took a backseat to Bluebell, Ash and Willow, but her quest to find her daughter was a strong maternal one and I felt for her when
Rowan is growing into my favorite character next to Bluebell. I wish there had been more from her POV when she I loved how the prologue and epilogue centered around her keeping secrets and is shaping her into a future ruler.
Ash felt bad for her isolation and the abuse she suffered. The end was satisfying when
Ugh, these two:
I was really hoping Ivy would have grown into a smart and mature woman but she is just as naive and annoying. If you're going to She is so dumb her story did not really interest me all that much.
Willow I hate because she That being said, her story was interesting to read because she and Hakon are a good antagonists to Bluebell. After the conclusion of Daughters of the Storm I thought
I really liked how Sisters of the Fire moved the story forward. The plots and characters were well developed, and the separate stories matched up well. I am looking forward to the conclusion in book 3, Queens of the Sea.
3.5 out of 5 Dragons
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