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Forgotten Empires #2
The Fiery Crown
A queen and her rebel prince turn from enemies to lovers while evil forces plot to destroy them in this lush romantic fantasy.
Following The Orchid Throne, Conri and Lia’s marriage of convenience has turned into an uneasy alliance. If only the two leaders could agree on something. Driven by revenge, Conri wants to attack Emperor Anure before the tyrant gets to them first. But Lia needs to keep Calanthe safe, and refuses to sacrifice her kingdom. Their ongoing battle for control has built up tension they’re both more than happy to release in bed, the only place where they find common ground. But Conri and Lia are developing deeper feelings for each other that are complicating matters. In the second book in the Forgotten Empires trilogy, Conri and Lia find their loyalties torn, and with Emperor Anure’s threat growing, will they be able to risk everything with each other before it’s too late?
Following The Orchid Throne, Conri and Lia’s marriage of convenience has turned into an uneasy alliance. If only the two leaders could agree on something. Driven by revenge, Conri wants to attack Emperor Anure before the tyrant gets to them first. But Lia needs to keep Calanthe safe, and refuses to sacrifice her kingdom. Their ongoing battle for control has built up tension they’re both more than happy to release in bed, the only place where they find common ground. But Conri and Lia are developing deeper feelings for each other that are complicating matters. In the second book in the Forgotten Empires trilogy, Conri and Lia find their loyalties torn, and with Emperor Anure’s threat growing, will they be able to risk everything with each other before it’s too late?
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 26, 2020
113 people are currently reading
2855 people want to read
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
98 books1,337 followers💙She/her💙 Award-winning Bestselling Author of epic fantasy romance. Taoist. Swiftie. Santa Fean. Cat lady @sfwa_inc Past-President. Rep by @seyitsme
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December 13, 2020
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Fiery Crown is second in the Forgotten Empires series and can not be read as a standalone as it continues the story of Queen Euthalia and the Slave King, Conri. The first introduced readers to this fantasy world, a world that was ravaged twenty years ago and ruled ever since by the self-proclaimed emperor Anure. Conri was the prince of a kingdom called Oriel that was the first to fall. He was sent to the mines where his thirst for revenge grew until he was old enough to do something about it. He has a friend named Sondra from Oriel with him, a former General named Kara, and wizard named Ambrose, who claims Conri is part of a prophecy that will topple the kingdom. The first ends with Conri completing another part of Ambrose's prophecy, claiming the hand, marrying, the Queen Euthalia of Calanthe.
All my promises to protect her were as empty as my blackened soul. She’d called me a caged wolf, and she was more right than she knew. A trapped animal can never be trusted.
Euthalia was an aloof solitary figure in the first book as she is the only independent ruler left in the land and only because her father betrothed her to Anure. In this second installment, we get to see her open up more as her and Conri become closer through dealing with how to defeat Anure. Again, there was time dedicated to Euthalia's clothing and make-up choices but those were kept more brief as the focus started to turn to why she has such an elaborate get-up. Euthalia is an elemental, she would grow flowers and vines instead of hair if she didn't shave it and can share thoughts and feelings with her land Calanthe. This along, with brief appearances by Ambrose and some other wizards is really the only fantasy elements we get. There really isn't any new worldbuilding as this stagnates on Conri and Euthalia pushing and pulling at each other as Conri works to get his revenge and Euthalia tries to protect her land.
A final joke from the gods who’d abandoned me. It changed nothing that my heart had come to life. It only meant I’d bleed more when I died.
I really felt the first seventy percent of this could have been condensed down to 10-20 percent as I was, quite frankly, bored for the vast majority. The last 30% finally gives us a glimpse of the major villain Anure and has some action and heartbreak that moved the story along. There were times that I felt the vernacular felt a bit modern or off for the time and place this world is set in; it just didn't jive with the medieval feel. With some secrets revealed but more still unexplained and Anure not defeated, this ends with somewhat of a cliffhanger. I don't feel there was enough story here to drag out to three books but if everything is going to be wrapped up in the third, that should be full of revelations and action.
The Fiery Crown is second in the Forgotten Empires series and can not be read as a standalone as it continues the story of Queen Euthalia and the Slave King, Conri. The first introduced readers to this fantasy world, a world that was ravaged twenty years ago and ruled ever since by the self-proclaimed emperor Anure. Conri was the prince of a kingdom called Oriel that was the first to fall. He was sent to the mines where his thirst for revenge grew until he was old enough to do something about it. He has a friend named Sondra from Oriel with him, a former General named Kara, and wizard named Ambrose, who claims Conri is part of a prophecy that will topple the kingdom. The first ends with Conri completing another part of Ambrose's prophecy, claiming the hand, marrying, the Queen Euthalia of Calanthe.
All my promises to protect her were as empty as my blackened soul. She’d called me a caged wolf, and she was more right than she knew. A trapped animal can never be trusted.
Euthalia was an aloof solitary figure in the first book as she is the only independent ruler left in the land and only because her father betrothed her to Anure. In this second installment, we get to see her open up more as her and Conri become closer through dealing with how to defeat Anure. Again, there was time dedicated to Euthalia's clothing and make-up choices but those were kept more brief as the focus started to turn to why she has such an elaborate get-up. Euthalia is an elemental, she would grow flowers and vines instead of hair if she didn't shave it and can share thoughts and feelings with her land Calanthe. This along, with brief appearances by Ambrose and some other wizards is really the only fantasy elements we get. There really isn't any new worldbuilding as this stagnates on Conri and Euthalia pushing and pulling at each other as Conri works to get his revenge and Euthalia tries to protect her land.
A final joke from the gods who’d abandoned me. It changed nothing that my heart had come to life. It only meant I’d bleed more when I died.
I really felt the first seventy percent of this could have been condensed down to 10-20 percent as I was, quite frankly, bored for the vast majority. The last 30% finally gives us a glimpse of the major villain Anure and has some action and heartbreak that moved the story along. There were times that I felt the vernacular felt a bit modern or off for the time and place this world is set in; it just didn't jive with the medieval feel. With some secrets revealed but more still unexplained and Anure not defeated, this ends with somewhat of a cliffhanger. I don't feel there was enough story here to drag out to three books but if everything is going to be wrapped up in the third, that should be full of revelations and action.
May 28, 2020
Revenge can distract you from what is really important…
The length of time it took me to read this story is not a reflection of how much I enjoyed it. I’m sorry to say but sitting down and reading has become a bit of a chore. Living in a house with two active boys that have had all their sports put on hold, is not easy. Suddenly, they want to chat, they want to play cards, they want my attention. Don’t get me wrong, I’m thoroughly enjoying having my 16 and 13-year-old boys’ attention, but it is seriously messing with my reading time.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Fiery Crown and revisiting Calanthe and seeing Conri, Lia, Ambrose, Sondra, and Kara. I will admit to having times when I wanted to reach in and shake a few of the characters. I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I’m reading, I start to doubt things can ever recover or be right again. Then, I get to the end and shake my head at myself. Of course, a trusted author will not let me down. Of course, they had everything under control. Of course, it was always just a part of the author's dastardly plans to mess with my emotions.
In this instalment, we get to know Conri and Lia more and see their feelings for each other develop and grow. There are times when they doubt their feelings for each other. Conri is still determined to end Anure at ANY cost. Lia is still determined to protect Calanthe at ANY cost. What these two numbskulls didn’t plan is that their feelings for each other would mess with that dedication.
The relationships throughout the story are interesting. Lia is realising that it is hard to trust anyone. The one person she thought she could always trust, abandons her. Conri realises that he cannot put his friendships ahead of his wife. Both come to realise too late that they really must be each other’s confidant, friend, and lover.
If I could find one fault, it would be that the action took too long to get to. I needed a bit of excitement earlier on to get me heated up for the climactic ending. Talk about climactic ending…at times it was a little gruesome, but it had my heart pumping. I’m now determined to see Anure and his four henchmen DEAD! I’m not normally a violent person but they need to… D I E!!
I will definitely be back for more in the Forgotten Empires series. Jeffe Kennedy has captured and held my attention with this war with Anure. I want Lia and Conri to win and I want them to find happiness with their families close by.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
The length of time it took me to read this story is not a reflection of how much I enjoyed it. I’m sorry to say but sitting down and reading has become a bit of a chore. Living in a house with two active boys that have had all their sports put on hold, is not easy. Suddenly, they want to chat, they want to play cards, they want my attention. Don’t get me wrong, I’m thoroughly enjoying having my 16 and 13-year-old boys’ attention, but it is seriously messing with my reading time.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Fiery Crown and revisiting Calanthe and seeing Conri, Lia, Ambrose, Sondra, and Kara. I will admit to having times when I wanted to reach in and shake a few of the characters. I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I’m reading, I start to doubt things can ever recover or be right again. Then, I get to the end and shake my head at myself. Of course, a trusted author will not let me down. Of course, they had everything under control. Of course, it was always just a part of the author's dastardly plans to mess with my emotions.
In this instalment, we get to know Conri and Lia more and see their feelings for each other develop and grow. There are times when they doubt their feelings for each other. Conri is still determined to end Anure at ANY cost. Lia is still determined to protect Calanthe at ANY cost. What these two numbskulls didn’t plan is that their feelings for each other would mess with that dedication.
The relationships throughout the story are interesting. Lia is realising that it is hard to trust anyone. The one person she thought she could always trust, abandons her. Conri realises that he cannot put his friendships ahead of his wife. Both come to realise too late that they really must be each other’s confidant, friend, and lover.
If I could find one fault, it would be that the action took too long to get to. I needed a bit of excitement earlier on to get me heated up for the climactic ending. Talk about climactic ending…at times it was a little gruesome, but it had my heart pumping. I’m now determined to see Anure and his four henchmen DEAD! I’m not normally a violent person but they need to… D I E!!
I will definitely be back for more in the Forgotten Empires series. Jeffe Kennedy has captured and held my attention with this war with Anure. I want Lia and Conri to win and I want them to find happiness with their families close by.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
May 26, 2020
The Fiery Crown is a good fantasy read. I will openly admit that when I requested the ARC of this book, I did not realize that it was the second in the series. That being said, I gave the first book The Orchid Throne a heavy skim read, and caught myself up well enough before diving in. With that in mind, and not in flushing my review at all this was an enjoyable read for me.
It’s essentially two unlike characters in a marriage of convenience attempting to put their differences aside (mostly) to defeat a common enemy. Conri is a warrior through and through and wants to act to defeat their enemy. Lia is trying to keep her kingdom safe. What these two don’t have in strategic compatibility, they make up for in sexual tension. These two are trying to get along while getting it on, and it’s just a great read. Seeing two people with such chemistry slowly fall in love. I can only imagine it through the eyes of the other characters in this story. It’s peak marriage of convenience yumminess, with a bit of an intense throne game plot.
I can’t wait for the next book in their story!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
It’s essentially two unlike characters in a marriage of convenience attempting to put their differences aside (mostly) to defeat a common enemy. Conri is a warrior through and through and wants to act to defeat their enemy. Lia is trying to keep her kingdom safe. What these two don’t have in strategic compatibility, they make up for in sexual tension. These two are trying to get along while getting it on, and it’s just a great read. Seeing two people with such chemistry slowly fall in love. I can only imagine it through the eyes of the other characters in this story. It’s peak marriage of convenience yumminess, with a bit of an intense throne game plot.
I can’t wait for the next book in their story!
AVAILABLE NOW!
*ARC
March 15, 2020
Now this is how you write a five star book and I absolutely loved everything about it. I admit as much as I enjoyed meeting the characters in the preceding book The Orchid Throne it didn't leave such an impression as this book did. Conri is still very much hell bent on revenge against the false Emperor but all Lia wants is to protect her land and her people. Yes they share the same ultimate objective but sadly their methods and ideas really don't quite gel so well. Everything is set for a showdown with the Emperor and his forces but who will emerge the victor ?
Fascinating characters, magic, action, betrayal and truly vile deeds not to mention snark and passion all go to make this a fabulous second instalment to what I'm guessing might be a trilogy. I'm so happy that the author managed to turn this marriage of convenience into something that had depths and can only say I look forward so much to continuing this journey with Con and Lia but it's also very interesting getting to know supporting characters who in this book added so much.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Fascinating characters, magic, action, betrayal and truly vile deeds not to mention snark and passion all go to make this a fabulous second instalment to what I'm guessing might be a trilogy. I'm so happy that the author managed to turn this marriage of convenience into something that had depths and can only say I look forward so much to continuing this journey with Con and Lia but it's also very interesting getting to know supporting characters who in this book added so much.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
March 29, 2020
The perks of being an author assistant is getting to read her books super early.
This book is soooo good! Make sure to get your hands on it as soon as it releases!
This book is soooo good! Make sure to get your hands on it as soon as it releases!
May 31, 2020
3.0 stars
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is the second book in a fun fantasy series that combines magic, wizards, sword fighting, and evil emperors. Conri and Lia form a fragile alliance to take down Anure, but still have a long way to go in communicating with each other besides falling into bed. They experience a small amount of character development, but almost no other character in the book does.
As with the first book, this book is unevenly paced. The first 3/4 of the book slowly plods along and focuses on dialogue between Conri and Lia, with very little plot movement. Most of the action occurs in the last 1/4 of the book. The action is rushed and huge plot points are dumped out, scattered and then the book ends. It's really frustrating. Another frustrating issue is that minor characters that are barely mentioned in the story suddenly have huge portions of the plan to kill Anure resting on their shoulders. It makes no sense, and is certainly an area where better editing could have helped the book.
Overall, this book furthers the quest to kill the evil emperor and free the world, which is the whole point of a second book. Despite my quibbles with the editing and pacing, I look forward to seeing how the series ends.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You can read all of my reviews at https://www.NerdGirlLovesBooks.com.
This is the second book in a fun fantasy series that combines magic, wizards, sword fighting, and evil emperors. Conri and Lia form a fragile alliance to take down Anure, but still have a long way to go in communicating with each other besides falling into bed. They experience a small amount of character development, but almost no other character in the book does.
As with the first book, this book is unevenly paced. The first 3/4 of the book slowly plods along and focuses on dialogue between Conri and Lia, with very little plot movement. Most of the action occurs in the last 1/4 of the book. The action is rushed and huge plot points are dumped out, scattered and then the book ends. It's really frustrating. Another frustrating issue is that minor characters that are barely mentioned in the story suddenly have huge portions of the plan to kill Anure resting on their shoulders. It makes no sense, and is certainly an area where better editing could have helped the book.
Overall, this book furthers the quest to kill the evil emperor and free the world, which is the whole point of a second book. Despite my quibbles with the editing and pacing, I look forward to seeing how the series ends.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2020
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited to dive into this sequel and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint one bit! The Fiery Crown was so hard for me to put down. No, seriously, so much freaking happened in this book that it. Especially when I was getting closer to the ending of it. Boy, I was on the edge of my seat and was prepared for sadness.
Thankfully, the ending gave me hope instead. No idea if there is going to be another book but with that kind of cliffhanger - I'm prepared to volunteer to read it. I just need to know what is going to happen next and if my ship will continue to sail into happily ever after.
Besides all of that, and trying really hard not to spoil things here, if there was one thing I would change it would be the overall pacing. It definitely felt like things were dragging during some chapters which almost made me want to put the book down. Then something super interesting or unexpected would happen and I was snagged back into the book.
I was so excited to dive into this sequel and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint one bit! The Fiery Crown was so hard for me to put down. No, seriously, so much freaking happened in this book that it. Especially when I was getting closer to the ending of it. Boy, I was on the edge of my seat and was prepared for sadness.
Thankfully, the ending gave me hope instead. No idea if there is going to be another book but with that kind of cliffhanger - I'm prepared to volunteer to read it. I just need to know what is going to happen next and if my ship will continue to sail into happily ever after.
Besides all of that, and trying really hard not to spoil things here, if there was one thing I would change it would be the overall pacing. It definitely felt like things were dragging during some chapters which almost made me want to put the book down. Then something super interesting or unexpected would happen and I was snagged back into the book.
May 28, 2020
The Fiery Crown is Book 2 of The Forgotten Empires by Jeffe Kennedy and is best read in order within the series. I did not read the first book, so there were times where I was a bit lost.
As a stand alone, this book has plenty of dialogue, action, characters, and suspense along with some spicy romance. The fantasy part of the novel is all about magic, and sparks fly there too! The pace is slow at the beginning and gradually starts to speed up and get really interesting! This is a book best savored for the complexity of its two main characters: Conri (The former Prince of Oriel) and Lia (Queen Euthalia)- newlyweds who both have ideas about how their future will proceed...and have yet to come to terms with their relationship or their roles within the kingdom of Euthalia. Will Conri and Lia work through their trust issues or will their quests for revenge destroy them all?
I thought that The Fiery Crown was a good steamy romantic read with a bit of fantasy to keep it extra, The character development is good, just slow in the first part of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley, autor Jeffey Kennedy, and St. Martin's Press for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own. #TheFieryCrown #NetGalley
As a stand alone, this book has plenty of dialogue, action, characters, and suspense along with some spicy romance. The fantasy part of the novel is all about magic, and sparks fly there too! The pace is slow at the beginning and gradually starts to speed up and get really interesting! This is a book best savored for the complexity of its two main characters: Conri (The former Prince of Oriel) and Lia (Queen Euthalia)- newlyweds who both have ideas about how their future will proceed...and have yet to come to terms with their relationship or their roles within the kingdom of Euthalia. Will Conri and Lia work through their trust issues or will their quests for revenge destroy them all?
I thought that The Fiery Crown was a good steamy romantic read with a bit of fantasy to keep it extra, The character development is good, just slow in the first part of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley, autor Jeffey Kennedy, and St. Martin's Press for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own. #TheFieryCrown #NetGalley
May 20, 2020
“The Fiery Crown” was a decent followup installment of the “The Orchid Throne” in the Forgotten Empire series. I wish I could say it wow me yet I am sad to report that this novel definitely lacked that spark that drew me originally to this series. If you haven’t read the blurb, “The Fiery Crown” follows Lia and Conri’s marriage of convenience and their uneasy alliance. I enjoyed the tense and the fierce banter between the two as they struggle to rule the Kingdom while seeking vengeance but less than a week has passed and the I love yous are thrown around. It kind of ruined the fierce image I had for this couple and wish they had more of a slow-burn kind of romance. Nevertheless, it wasn’t terrible and I look forward to the conclusion of their story.
February 12, 2020
Book 1 is must read before book 2. The story picks up after the events in book 1 and races through the plot. The marriage of convenience isn't convenient out of bed. The characters slowly open up and start to trust another. The evil villain isn't alone though...
While this part ties up some story arcs, it isn't over and there is more at stake.
I want book 3!
I reviewed an ARC from Netgalley.
While this part ties up some story arcs, it isn't over and there is more at stake.
I want book 3!
I reviewed an ARC from Netgalley.
June 20, 2020
I know my example might sound like a cliffhanger, but hear me out.
The end, omg so intense. It was like the author took the characters, took them to a cliff, laughed manically and then pushed them all over, and made them hit everything on the way down. Luckily they did land and break everything. So it was not a total freefall, and for now they are safe on a tiny tree sticking out from that cliff and it might break any second.
Poor Lia. How could you be so cruel to Lia! In the first book I was a bit blaze about everyone, but here, Lia is not truly human, I do not get the whole thing. I wonder about so much since well queen of something that might waken, that will be intense too.
Conri, I was not impressed by him either in book 1, frankly he deserved to be pushed from that cliff and not saved. But he saves himself here, and I will not push him. I get that his life has been hell and all he wants is revenge.
Oh and the evil emperor must die a really painful slow, like really slow, like brought to death, nursed back, brought to death, nursed back and then have every piece of him..oh oh bloody eagle. Yes let's eagle that sucker!
Two people dancing around each other because they both want to save the world. Then darkness, so much darkness. Romance, no, this is not a romance. But it might be. One day.
Omg Lia! I am still in freefall from that cliff.
Book 3 will be something else
The end, omg so intense. It was like the author took the characters, took them to a cliff, laughed manically and then pushed them all over, and made them hit everything on the way down. Luckily they did land and break everything. So it was not a total freefall, and for now they are safe on a tiny tree sticking out from that cliff and it might break any second.
Poor Lia. How could you be so cruel to Lia! In the first book I was a bit blaze about everyone, but here, Lia is not truly human, I do not get the whole thing. I wonder about so much since well queen of something that might waken, that will be intense too.
Conri, I was not impressed by him either in book 1, frankly he deserved to be pushed from that cliff and not saved. But he saves himself here, and I will not push him. I get that his life has been hell and all he wants is revenge.
Oh and the evil emperor must die a really painful slow, like really slow, like brought to death, nursed back, brought to death, nursed back and then have every piece of him..oh oh bloody eagle. Yes let's eagle that sucker!
Two people dancing around each other because they both want to save the world. Then darkness, so much darkness. Romance, no, this is not a romance. But it might be. One day.
Omg Lia! I am still in freefall from that cliff.
Book 3 will be something else
May 17, 2020
Once again, it took me a while to really get into this book. It was the same way with the first installment and I thought it was a case of first book-itis but the same thing happened here.
To be fair, we did not have to wait for Conri and Lia to come together as they’re already married when the book begins, but they are worlds apart emotionally, and in some ways it’s like starting from scratch. These two got married at the end of The Orchid Throne after very little time together, and while they connect in the bedroom right away, finding any other common ground is a challenge.
Conri is a man bent on vengeance. All he wants to do is kill Emperor Anure. Meanwhile, all Lia wants to do is protect Calanthe. In many ways, these two goals are diametrically opposed. Yet somehow, they eventually, unknowingly, get to a point where their marriage holds the centerpiece of their hearts.
That’s when the book really takes off.
Just as much as I wanted to skim a little bit in the beginning, I was totally invested in the second half. Lia is so prickly and closed off and believes entirely that she can never let anyone in and I just loved watching her slowly take down her walls for her husband. And Conri? He thinks himself incapable of love. He thinks he’s just a shell, dead inside. How wrong he is.
The progression of the romance was really good and so, too, was the world building and even the secondary characters. I particularly liked the prickly Sondra and the enigmatic Ambrose. And the big reveal here? I didn’t see it coming and it opens up a whole new can of worms for our hero. I am excited for the conclusion of this trilogy to see how it all plays out. Hopefully the romance will blossom in that one from beginning to end.
*ARC provided by publisher
To be fair, we did not have to wait for Conri and Lia to come together as they’re already married when the book begins, but they are worlds apart emotionally, and in some ways it’s like starting from scratch. These two got married at the end of The Orchid Throne after very little time together, and while they connect in the bedroom right away, finding any other common ground is a challenge.
Conri is a man bent on vengeance. All he wants to do is kill Emperor Anure. Meanwhile, all Lia wants to do is protect Calanthe. In many ways, these two goals are diametrically opposed. Yet somehow, they eventually, unknowingly, get to a point where their marriage holds the centerpiece of their hearts.
That’s when the book really takes off.
Just as much as I wanted to skim a little bit in the beginning, I was totally invested in the second half. Lia is so prickly and closed off and believes entirely that she can never let anyone in and I just loved watching her slowly take down her walls for her husband. And Conri? He thinks himself incapable of love. He thinks he’s just a shell, dead inside. How wrong he is.
The progression of the romance was really good and so, too, was the world building and even the secondary characters. I particularly liked the prickly Sondra and the enigmatic Ambrose. And the big reveal here? I didn’t see it coming and it opens up a whole new can of worms for our hero. I am excited for the conclusion of this trilogy to see how it all plays out. Hopefully the romance will blossom in that one from beginning to end.
*ARC provided by publisher
February 8, 2025
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review. Also my tags may have spoilers in them so be forewarned before checking out full review.
Book Evaluation:
Plot: 🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️
World Building:🌎🌎🌎🌎
Cover:📔📔📔📔
Hero: 🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻🦸🏻
Heroine:🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️🦸🏻♀️
Intimacy Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Relationship Building: 💒💒💒
Heart & Feels:💞💞💞
Witty/Banter/Reaction of Laughter: 😂😂😂😂
Page Turner Level:📖📖📖📖
Narration:🎧🎧🎧🎧
Ending:🧧🧧🧧🧧
Overall View: ✨✨✨✨
First Impressions
The Fiery Crown is the second book in the "Forgotten Empire" series and this book picks off from where the first book "Orchid Thone" leaves off. Conri and Lia have come together in a agreement into a marriage of convenience and to plan to take down evil Emperor Anure and solidify the safety of Lia's kingdom of her island. Lia and Conri are having to learn what it means to be married, to bring balance to their relationship and the responsibilities to the court and to come up with a plan that will bring down Anure. The Fiery Crown is definitely a bit more intense in some regards so I would recommend seeing the trigger warnings on this one, because there is torture in this one. But I loved how edgy this one was, it really builds on the plot while at the same time still delivering a good HFN theme ending on it. Which I greatly appreciate it, too many fantasy romances have cliffhangers, so its so nice to see an author not do that to her readers.
First Line
Good morning, Conri! I must congratulate myself-how did I know I'd find you here
The Main Protagonists
The Hero: Conri
The Heroine: Lia
What I Loved
The Fiery Crown was such a fascinating book. I found the pacing to be a little bit better than the first book. We are seeing Conri and Lia delving into their marriage of convenience and really learning what it means to be together. They are both so strong willed and so stubborn that their way is the right way. We also see how they both make mistakes and also are correct in different ways. We see how different that they think from each other. I really liked how strong and courageous both of them are especially in intense situations. We see how Conri is learning to adapt to court life and the dynamics that come into play. We see how plans can always go wrong no matter how strong you think they are. We see what these two are made of and the love that sneaks up on them that gives them the strength to withstand the fury of the Emperor. It definitely gave me some surprises and I knew it probably wouldn't end so well...but the turn of events really shocked me even though I KNEW it was coming haha Jeffe Kennedy really build the edge in this story and the third act especially kept me on the edge of my seat.
What I Struggled With
Some of their dynamic felt a bit off at times. I really wished that there was more emotional swoons in this book. It was still a bit slow at parts. And I felt like the stubbornness of both Conri and Lia was a bit too strong. And Lia isn't my favorite lol but sometimes this author writes these types of heroines. She is a bit too cocky and superior thinking in that she is above Conri. I would have liked to see more softer moments between these two. The moments that we did get just didn't feel enough to me.
Narration
Gabrille Baker was so much different than the first book. I think the complaints were obvious for the first book, and this narrator did so much better so you can actually see the different character's POV better. Its 3rd POV, but you can sense who is speaking and was much better. Not a perfect narration, but leagues ahead of what we got in "Orchid Throne"
Overall View
The Fiery Crown was a angsty adventurous installment that brings together beautiful aspects of marriage of convenience and enemies to lovers, seeing a couple learn to let go of their preconceptions and learning to adapt to new circumstances. Of seeing characters rise above the conflicts and come together when it matters....
Book Details (also in my shelves)
Sub Genre: Epic Fantasy Romance
Character Types: Royalty, Tortured Hero, Abused Heroine
Themes: Angsty, Political Intrigue
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Marriage of Convenience
Book Perspective
3rd POV
Relationship Conflict vs Plot Conflict
Both but more focus on the relationship conflicts
If you like these authors, I recommend This Book
CL Wilson
Elizabeth Vaughan
Grace Draven
Song This Book Inspires
Broken by Lifehouse
Recommendation For Reading Order
Yes you must read these books in order
Steam/Spice Explanations
Simmering cup of tea---soft warm touches and light intimacy
Warmin' by the fire- a medium level of sexual tension, a balance of sexual and emotional intimacy, lighter on the details in the sexual moments.
Steamin' up the room -the sexual content is more explicit in the language and tone, heavier amount of sexual scenes.
Blazing fire to the building-The prime focus is the sex scenes, scorching hot, and could burn one. Less focus on the emotional intimacy to the relationship.
Narrators:
Gabrielle Baker
May 26, 2020
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.
As I continue in the Forgotten Empires series, I appreciate the unique magics and the depth of the world-building. Lia and Conri are very new to each other, so there is a lot of their interaction and getting to know each other, all with the background threat of Anure. I struggled a little with all the rich detail of the world and the depth of character development with wanting the action I knew was to follow. The slow burn of their time together does help form knowledge and trust they both need.
I really felt for Lia because she knew her horrid nightmares were visions of the terror ahead. She beautifully remained calm, reassuring her people, and working with Conri as much as she could. They both learn more about their past and their blind spots from each other and because of their different knowledge and perspectives. Their personal styles balance each other.
I loved the strategy, with the action so exciting and suspenseful. Their battle plans have some success and some stupendous failures. I had really hoped that Lia, Conri and Ambrose would all learn to better use and control their magic but that was not this story at all. The Fiery Crown was more a focus on learning truths, facing realities, and grasping true priorities.
I am definitely looking forward to reading more in 2021. With our team of rebels working better together, it should be interesting to see what they can manage.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
As I continue in the Forgotten Empires series, I appreciate the unique magics and the depth of the world-building. Lia and Conri are very new to each other, so there is a lot of their interaction and getting to know each other, all with the background threat of Anure. I struggled a little with all the rich detail of the world and the depth of character development with wanting the action I knew was to follow. The slow burn of their time together does help form knowledge and trust they both need.
I really felt for Lia because she knew her horrid nightmares were visions of the terror ahead. She beautifully remained calm, reassuring her people, and working with Conri as much as she could. They both learn more about their past and their blind spots from each other and because of their different knowledge and perspectives. Their personal styles balance each other.
I loved the strategy, with the action so exciting and suspenseful. Their battle plans have some success and some stupendous failures. I had really hoped that Lia, Conri and Ambrose would all learn to better use and control their magic but that was not this story at all. The Fiery Crown was more a focus on learning truths, facing realities, and grasping true priorities.
I am definitely looking forward to reading more in 2021. With our team of rebels working better together, it should be interesting to see what they can manage.
May 28, 2020
4.5 stars ARC Review
I love the world created by Jeffe Kennedy. Although the story is completely different, the mood reminds me of the first time I watched The Island of Doctor Moreau. There is something definitely going on with this island and I can't quite tell how sinister it will be. I like the guessing game as it keeps me on my toes.
In the first book, The Orchid Throne, Lia and Conri marry to create an alliance against the despot, Anure, but it turns out to be more than a marriage of convenience. Anure is coming and it is up to Lia and Conri to outsmart him. This is a fantastic representation of the enemies to lovers trope. What makes it really work is that the characters are multi-layered. Lia and Conri are not superheroes and have real vulnerabilities that make them likeable to each other and to us as readers. It would be easy to dismiss Lia as frivolous, walking through life like the citizen's of District One from the The Hunger Games. You might even say the same about the island, beautiful but without much meat. You could say that if you only look at the surface. There is great depth and like an iceberg, the substance is under the water line. As the story unfolds, the narrative gets darker and darker with a sense of desperation. There is a HEA for now, but it is EARNED.
Book two advances several storylines and introduces us to new characters that brings additional intrigue. There is a major ship battle, kidnapping, use of elemental magic, sacrifice, and a heroic rescue. So far, it is a wild ride and I'm anxiously waiting for more!
I love the world created by Jeffe Kennedy. Although the story is completely different, the mood reminds me of the first time I watched The Island of Doctor Moreau. There is something definitely going on with this island and I can't quite tell how sinister it will be. I like the guessing game as it keeps me on my toes.
In the first book, The Orchid Throne, Lia and Conri marry to create an alliance against the despot, Anure, but it turns out to be more than a marriage of convenience. Anure is coming and it is up to Lia and Conri to outsmart him. This is a fantastic representation of the enemies to lovers trope. What makes it really work is that the characters are multi-layered. Lia and Conri are not superheroes and have real vulnerabilities that make them likeable to each other and to us as readers. It would be easy to dismiss Lia as frivolous, walking through life like the citizen's of District One from the The Hunger Games. You might even say the same about the island, beautiful but without much meat. You could say that if you only look at the surface. There is great depth and like an iceberg, the substance is under the water line. As the story unfolds, the narrative gets darker and darker with a sense of desperation. There is a HEA for now, but it is EARNED.
Book two advances several storylines and introduces us to new characters that brings additional intrigue. There is a major ship battle, kidnapping, use of elemental magic, sacrifice, and a heroic rescue. So far, it is a wild ride and I'm anxiously waiting for more!
May 26, 2020
Rated 4.5 Stars
The Fiery Crown was a wild ride. There was action, twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat anxious to see what would happen next while dreading it at the same time. This book definitely had my emotions all over the place. I cannot wait to get my overly eager hands on the next book in the series. I definitely recommend this series.
Copy provided by publisher through Net Galley
The Fiery Crown was a wild ride. There was action, twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat with my heart in my throat anxious to see what would happen next while dreading it at the same time. This book definitely had my emotions all over the place. I cannot wait to get my overly eager hands on the next book in the series. I definitely recommend this series.
Copy provided by publisher through Net Galley
May 20, 2020
Mon avis en français
My English review
I had a great time with the first volume and I must say that I was looking forward to this sequel. In fact I can tell you that this volume 2 surpassed the first one and I am even more impatient now to have volume 3 in my hands.
Lia and Conri are now married but cohabitation is not easy. It must be said that our two heroes have two completely different goals. Lia’s goal is to save Calanthe and keep her people safe, and Conri’s is to take revenge by any means possible on Anure. But when the feelings they thought they never had for each other appear, things get even more complicated. Their supporters are counting on them, so our protagonists will have to make important choices.
I had a really great time and was curiously waiting for the confrontation with Anure. It must be said that our heroes, especially Lia, will have to overcome some difficult obstacles and I can’t even imagine how they will manage.
It was a very nice novel in a fascinating universe. Conri will make discoveries he didn’t think possible and Lia will have to do everything she can to get out alive.
Yes, I’m looking forward to the rest!
My English review
I had a great time with the first volume and I must say that I was looking forward to this sequel. In fact I can tell you that this volume 2 surpassed the first one and I am even more impatient now to have volume 3 in my hands.
Lia and Conri are now married but cohabitation is not easy. It must be said that our two heroes have two completely different goals. Lia’s goal is to save Calanthe and keep her people safe, and Conri’s is to take revenge by any means possible on Anure. But when the feelings they thought they never had for each other appear, things get even more complicated. Their supporters are counting on them, so our protagonists will have to make important choices.
I had a really great time and was curiously waiting for the confrontation with Anure. It must be said that our heroes, especially Lia, will have to overcome some difficult obstacles and I can’t even imagine how they will manage.
It was a very nice novel in a fascinating universe. Conri will make discoveries he didn’t think possible and Lia will have to do everything she can to get out alive.
Yes, I’m looking forward to the rest!
March 9, 2020
What a fantastic follow up to The Orchid Throne and a great second book in the Forgotten Empires series! The ending of Orchid Throne left a need to know more, and The Fiery Crown came through for me in a fantastic way! I love the pacing and how we jump into the action, keeping me engaged and totally into the plot! Action and adventure never seem to stop with sparks flying between Lia and Con, the implications of their actions, and the response of the Emporer and Calanthe.
Euthalia and Conri continue their journey, now bond to the other through a rushed, convenience-based marriage. One desires more than anything to keep her unconquered homeland safe at all costs. At the same time, the other is hell-bent on seeking his revenge on the Emporer Anure. The characters go on a life-altering journey where they must decide if a realm and vengeance are more important than the growing love for one another that neither of them expected to have.
The dynamics between the main characters molded well in this fast-paced book. We see Lia and Con where no work is required, and their chemistry is in full and hot effect in the bedrooms, but they struggle to find some semblance of a truce when not alone together. The barriers they have both set up around their lives, and hearts began to fall as threats rein down around them from the Emporer set on gaining what he desires most - Lai and the ring abiding ring. The pair must decide if putting country and vengeance first is worth losing something that might be much more important. This book ends with me needing to know how their journey continues, and I am as patiently as possible, awaiting the next installment.
Euthalia and Conri continue their journey, now bond to the other through a rushed, convenience-based marriage. One desires more than anything to keep her unconquered homeland safe at all costs. At the same time, the other is hell-bent on seeking his revenge on the Emporer Anure. The characters go on a life-altering journey where they must decide if a realm and vengeance are more important than the growing love for one another that neither of them expected to have.
The dynamics between the main characters molded well in this fast-paced book. We see Lia and Con where no work is required, and their chemistry is in full and hot effect in the bedrooms, but they struggle to find some semblance of a truce when not alone together. The barriers they have both set up around their lives, and hearts began to fall as threats rein down around them from the Emporer set on gaining what he desires most - Lai and the ring abiding ring. The pair must decide if putting country and vengeance first is worth losing something that might be much more important. This book ends with me needing to know how their journey continues, and I am as patiently as possible, awaiting the next installment.
January 4, 2021
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
4.5 stars
This is the second book in the Forgotten Empires series by Jeffe Kennedy. I had a really great time with the first book, The Orchid Throne, and this one picks up where that one leaves off. Lia and Conri are married and they are working together to meet their goals.
Euthalia, “Lia”, the Queen of Calanthe wants to keep her people safe, at all costs. She was raised to put her land and people above herself. Her only care is to keep them safe from the Emperor Anure, who is a “false emperor”. He has conquered the lands and tortured and killed people who didn’t follow them. Lia was betrothed to him, but saw a partner, at least in her goals, in Con.
Conri, the former Crown Prince of Oriel, and escaped prisoner of the Vurgmun, and also known as the Slave King. Con only wants vengeance. He wants Anure dead. He’s willing to do anything, including forfeit his own life to make this happen. The prophecy said he needs to “claim the hand that wears the ring and the empire falls” and Lia wears the ring, so he marries her to get to his goal.
While they have different agendas, they both need the same thing, Anure dead. But will they betray the other if it is needed to kill Anure. While they didn’t marry for love, there is an attraction to them and they are growing closer together. In this book, they come even closer.
We also learn a lot more about Lia’s nature, the nature of Calanthe and that there are a lot of secrets. We also find out there are some things that we thought we knew, but really didn’t. Lia also has to come to terms with some things she doesn’t want to believe (trying to avoid a book one spoiler here).
I had such a great time with this story. My earbuds were glued to my ears. I loved watching Con and Lia come closer together to truly become partners. I liked seeing the secondary characters really show their loyalty to their friends and common goal.
The ending of this story was truly remarkable. While it wasn’t a cliffhanger, it does leave you wanting more. I am eagerly waiting for the third, and what I expect to be, the final book in this trilogy. It can’t get here fast enough. *waits somewhat patiently*
Narration (4.5 stars)
Gabrielle Baker does a great job with the narration of this book. When I listened to the first book, I commented that I had difficulty telling when the narrator would go from Con’s POV to Lia’s. That was not an issue at all with this book. I really liked this narrator much better. It made for a much better listen. I continued to enjoy the voices of each character and she really brought out the feelings of each scene. I had a really great time listening to her bring this story to life.
4.5 stars
This is the second book in the Forgotten Empires series by Jeffe Kennedy. I had a really great time with the first book, The Orchid Throne, and this one picks up where that one leaves off. Lia and Conri are married and they are working together to meet their goals.
Euthalia, “Lia”, the Queen of Calanthe wants to keep her people safe, at all costs. She was raised to put her land and people above herself. Her only care is to keep them safe from the Emperor Anure, who is a “false emperor”. He has conquered the lands and tortured and killed people who didn’t follow them. Lia was betrothed to him, but saw a partner, at least in her goals, in Con.
Conri, the former Crown Prince of Oriel, and escaped prisoner of the Vurgmun, and also known as the Slave King. Con only wants vengeance. He wants Anure dead. He’s willing to do anything, including forfeit his own life to make this happen. The prophecy said he needs to “claim the hand that wears the ring and the empire falls” and Lia wears the ring, so he marries her to get to his goal.
While they have different agendas, they both need the same thing, Anure dead. But will they betray the other if it is needed to kill Anure. While they didn’t marry for love, there is an attraction to them and they are growing closer together. In this book, they come even closer.
We also learn a lot more about Lia’s nature, the nature of Calanthe and that there are a lot of secrets. We also find out there are some things that we thought we knew, but really didn’t. Lia also has to come to terms with some things she doesn’t want to believe (trying to avoid a book one spoiler here).
I had such a great time with this story. My earbuds were glued to my ears. I loved watching Con and Lia come closer together to truly become partners. I liked seeing the secondary characters really show their loyalty to their friends and common goal.
The ending of this story was truly remarkable. While it wasn’t a cliffhanger, it does leave you wanting more. I am eagerly waiting for the third, and what I expect to be, the final book in this trilogy. It can’t get here fast enough. *waits somewhat patiently*
Narration (4.5 stars)
Gabrielle Baker does a great job with the narration of this book. When I listened to the first book, I commented that I had difficulty telling when the narrator would go from Con’s POV to Lia’s. That was not an issue at all with this book. I really liked this narrator much better. It made for a much better listen. I continued to enjoy the voices of each character and she really brought out the feelings of each scene. I had a really great time listening to her bring this story to life.
April 9, 2020
Review: This book is #2 in the Forgotten Empires series. Boy, that makes it hard to review without spoilers, at least for the first book in the series - but I guess I won't be spoiling anything the Goodreads synopsis doesn't say. I enjoyed book 1, and I was excited to get the chance to read this one - thanks netgalley!
In this sequel, Conri and Lia are married, but given the forced circumstances of the wedding, it is an uneasy alliance. However, the sex is hot (and they both enjoy it repeatedly in the book). They also gradually learn to respect each other more, and even gain a sort of trust. But the wicked Emperor is unhappy that Lia is "spoiled" and is coming to get her.
One of the things I like most about this series is Lia's magic - how it is tied to the land and how it manifests. We see a lot more of it in this book. I also like that although she is very different, Conri learns to love her differences. The supporting characters are also good, and more fleshed out than in book 1.
There is still more that needs to happen, but the book ended at a good, satisfying place. I'm looking forward to the next.
In this sequel, Conri and Lia are married, but given the forced circumstances of the wedding, it is an uneasy alliance. However, the sex is hot (and they both enjoy it repeatedly in the book). They also gradually learn to respect each other more, and even gain a sort of trust. But the wicked Emperor is unhappy that Lia is "spoiled" and is coming to get her.
One of the things I like most about this series is Lia's magic - how it is tied to the land and how it manifests. We see a lot more of it in this book. I also like that although she is very different, Conri learns to love her differences. The supporting characters are also good, and more fleshed out than in book 1.
There is still more that needs to happen, but the book ended at a good, satisfying place. I'm looking forward to the next.
July 26, 2021
I need a new shelf - "Desperately-Loved-Book-One-Book-Two-Bored-Me-To-Tears". It will be a sad shelf.
DNF The Fiery Crown. It's possible that I should skip any book with the word "Fiery" in the title, as "The Fiery Cross" was by FAR my least favorite of the Outlander series.
They. Just. Kept. Talking (back to talking about The Fiery Crown here). Nothing moved forward and there was no action.
DNF 33%. I'm very sad about this.
DNF The Fiery Crown. It's possible that I should skip any book with the word "Fiery" in the title, as "The Fiery Cross" was by FAR my least favorite of the Outlander series.
They. Just. Kept. Talking (back to talking about The Fiery Crown here). Nothing moved forward and there was no action.
DNF 33%. I'm very sad about this.
April 25, 2020
There’s a piece of advice that every writer hears: Chase your main characters up a tree and throw rocks at them. The problem is that rocks thrown with regularity into trees is not tension. It’s annoying.
Jeffe Kennedy knows where tension lives and it’s not in the predictable lobbing of rocks at people in trees. It’s in creating a world that the reader can inhabit. It is writing fully realized characters who know the worst is coming, plan as best they can to fight it and somehow are strong enough to soldier through when it all goes sideways.
In the second volume of Forgotten Empires, following her superlative The Orchid Throne, the elegant, politically savvy Lia is in a marriage of convenience to the rough, soldier king, Conri. On the face of it they have nothing in common but a shared hatred for the cruel Emperor Anure. Conri spent his young life as a slave in Anure’s mines, brooding about revenge; Lia, has spent hers in the stiffly opulent court of Calanthe, using the promise of her virginity to protect her kingdom from the Emperor.
Welp, that’s not going to work anymore because in this volume Con and Lia come together in ways that perfectly combine Lia’s courtly sensuality and Con’s martial roughness but leave her virginity moot.
Second volumes sometimes end up feeling like a bridge between the world building of the first volume and the heart-pounding finale of the third, but this has everything. The magic that was just hinted at in the first volume begins to unfurl like an orchid revealing both its strength and its fragility. A cast of secondary characters come into their own, especially Ambrose and Sondra.
But they never distract from Lia and Con and their burgeoning relationship, started out of necessity but continued out of desire and respect and finally love.
I adored it.
Jeffe Kennedy knows where tension lives and it’s not in the predictable lobbing of rocks at people in trees. It’s in creating a world that the reader can inhabit. It is writing fully realized characters who know the worst is coming, plan as best they can to fight it and somehow are strong enough to soldier through when it all goes sideways.
In the second volume of Forgotten Empires, following her superlative The Orchid Throne, the elegant, politically savvy Lia is in a marriage of convenience to the rough, soldier king, Conri. On the face of it they have nothing in common but a shared hatred for the cruel Emperor Anure. Conri spent his young life as a slave in Anure’s mines, brooding about revenge; Lia, has spent hers in the stiffly opulent court of Calanthe, using the promise of her virginity to protect her kingdom from the Emperor.
Welp, that’s not going to work anymore because in this volume Con and Lia come together in ways that perfectly combine Lia’s courtly sensuality and Con’s martial roughness but leave her virginity moot.
Second volumes sometimes end up feeling like a bridge between the world building of the first volume and the heart-pounding finale of the third, but this has everything. The magic that was just hinted at in the first volume begins to unfurl like an orchid revealing both its strength and its fragility. A cast of secondary characters come into their own, especially Ambrose and Sondra.
But they never distract from Lia and Con and their burgeoning relationship, started out of necessity but continued out of desire and respect and finally love.
I adored it.
May 28, 2020
The Fiery Crown is the second in Jeffe Kennedy's fantasy romance series, Forgotten Empires. Like the first book, the second begins slowly and builds towards a fiery ending. This one picks up after the events of The Orchid Throne with Lia and Con navigating their marriage of convenience as well as getting ready for the Emperor's eventual attack since Lia broke her betrothal to him to marry Con.
There's a fair bit of world building in this one where more is explained about Lia's connection to the island of Calanthe (which was pretty fascinating), and the wider implications for those connections and the other rulers that have been conquered by the Emperor. The stage is set for the (final?) battle in the next book, and it's clear that Lia and Con have a lot more to worry about than just the Emperor.
While this world building was great, I was there for the whole romance plot and that really pulled the momentum of The Fiery Crown to it's end. The conflict between Lia and Con is well done. They really don't know one another well, so there relationship is fraught with miscommunication and conflict. However, these two rulers ultimately have to work together to defeat the Emperor, so if they can't find some common ground, it's unlikely that the Emperor will ever be conquered. Oh the drama!
The Fiery Crown was an excellent follow up to The Orchid Throne and the ending strongly set the stage for book three with a reveal that someone thought dead is alive and likely to help Lia and Con defeat the Emperor. And so, the stage is set and I'll be back for book 3!
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
There's a fair bit of world building in this one where more is explained about Lia's connection to the island of Calanthe (which was pretty fascinating), and the wider implications for those connections and the other rulers that have been conquered by the Emperor. The stage is set for the (final?) battle in the next book, and it's clear that Lia and Con have a lot more to worry about than just the Emperor.
While this world building was great, I was there for the whole romance plot and that really pulled the momentum of The Fiery Crown to it's end. The conflict between Lia and Con is well done. They really don't know one another well, so there relationship is fraught with miscommunication and conflict. However, these two rulers ultimately have to work together to defeat the Emperor, so if they can't find some common ground, it's unlikely that the Emperor will ever be conquered. Oh the drama!
The Fiery Crown was an excellent follow up to The Orchid Throne and the ending strongly set the stage for book three with a reveal that someone thought dead is alive and likely to help Lia and Con defeat the Emperor. And so, the stage is set and I'll be back for book 3!
*Review copy provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
May 26, 2020
Release Date May 26, 2020!!!!!
The Fiery Crown is Book 2 of The Forgotten Empires by Jeffe Kennedy and is best read in order within the series. I did not read the first book, so there were times where I was a bit lost.
As a stand alone, this book has plenty of dialogue, action, characters, and suspense along with some spicy romance. The fantasy part of the novel is all about magic, and sparks fly there too! The pace is slow at the beginning and gradually starts to speed up and get really interesting!
This is a book best savored for the complexity of its two main characters: Conri (The former Prince of Oriel) and Lia (Queen Euthalia)- newlyweds who both have ideas about how their future will proceed...and have yet to come to terms with their relationship or their roles within the kingdom of Euthalia. Will Conri and Lia work through their trust issues or will their quests for revenge destroy them all?
I thought that The Fiery Crown was a good steamy romantic read with a bit of fantasy to keep it extra, The character development is good, just slow in the first part of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley, autor Jeffey Kennedy, and St. Martin's Press for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own. #TheFieryCrown #NetGalley
The Fiery Crown is Book 2 of The Forgotten Empires by Jeffe Kennedy and is best read in order within the series. I did not read the first book, so there were times where I was a bit lost.
As a stand alone, this book has plenty of dialogue, action, characters, and suspense along with some spicy romance. The fantasy part of the novel is all about magic, and sparks fly there too! The pace is slow at the beginning and gradually starts to speed up and get really interesting!
This is a book best savored for the complexity of its two main characters: Conri (The former Prince of Oriel) and Lia (Queen Euthalia)- newlyweds who both have ideas about how their future will proceed...and have yet to come to terms with their relationship or their roles within the kingdom of Euthalia. Will Conri and Lia work through their trust issues or will their quests for revenge destroy them all?
I thought that The Fiery Crown was a good steamy romantic read with a bit of fantasy to keep it extra, The character development is good, just slow in the first part of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley, autor Jeffey Kennedy, and St. Martin's Press for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own. #TheFieryCrown #NetGalley
February 28, 2020
Absolutely loved this book. I started reading it thinking that it was a stand alone or book one only to find out after a few chapters that I was missing something. I have never read this author so I went to Goodreads to do some research and found that this was book 2. Right away I ordered the paperback of book 1 on Amazon and started reading as soon as I got it. It is also a 5 star read just like this one. My recommendation is that you read book 1 to be able to really appreciate and love this book. It is an amazing story with great characters and romance and magic and a lot of entertainment. You won't be bored. At 76% of the story I knew where it was going, it's not that it's predictable because it hints at what was going to happen before it happened, but some might say that it was a bit predictable. I did enjoy very much what happened after what I predicted happened, there was plenty more good stuff that happens and that it's why this story gets the full 5 stars (even with the little bit of predictable content).
This is a very well written book and I believe there will be a 3rd because although it did have an ending there are still some unfinished things that could get solved in another book.
I will definitely check this author's other books because I really love her writing.
This is a very well written book and I believe there will be a 3rd because although it did have an ending there are still some unfinished things that could get solved in another book.
I will definitely check this author's other books because I really love her writing.
May 26, 2020
While I loved this book and can't wait to get the next one it follows a pattern it seems in the writing of Jeffe Kennedy in that we get a lot of verbiage along the way in the telling of a incredible story. The continuing story of Con and Lia is full of distrust and insecurities but it all works out and this is no shiny fairy tale, this is a brutal story of betrayal and redemption which leaves you panting for more. I was so disappointed when I was REALLY getting into the story and the the next page said 'THE END" .... DAMN! So perhaps she just gives us a better mental picture than most authors and I admit at times I am a very impatient reader (especially when I know sooner or later there will be revenge!!)
The story did surprise me a bit in places and the ending, so that is always a good thing .
Bottom line: As expected this book improved on book 1 a bit and without leaving you with a cliff hanger it still leaves you breathless for whatever comes next and I want it NOW! 4 Stars in what I feel will be a 5 Star trilogy but we rate books 1 at a time :)
The story did surprise me a bit in places and the ending, so that is always a good thing .
Bottom line: As expected this book improved on book 1 a bit and without leaving you with a cliff hanger it still leaves you breathless for whatever comes next and I want it NOW! 4 Stars in what I feel will be a 5 Star trilogy but we rate books 1 at a time :)
May 15, 2020
Book: The Fiery Crown
Author: Jeffe Kennedy
Rating: 1 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the publisher, St. Martin’s Press, for providing me with an ARC.
I really do think that this is a series that’s not for me. As much as I wanted to really enjoy these books, I just couldn’t. I’ve struggled to make a connection with the characters and the plot. I don’t know what about these books that make it so difficult for me to get into.
The plot is too slow for my liking. I was looking for an epic fantasy read and I didn’t get that. Instead, I got a slow moving plot with a ton of focus on romance. To me, this felt like a romance book with fantasy elements thrown in. Normally, I don’t mind romance at all in my fantasy books, but the heavy focus on it here just turned me away. I found myself skimming the pages and hoping for some action. I just wish that we had a little bit of the fantasy and less on the romance. Yes, I know that it takes a while for fantasy to build up, but this is the second book. If it hasn’t came by now, it’s probably not going to happen.
I also really didn’t care about the characters. I felt like there was no character growth between the first and second books. They just didn’t really fit with the world and I just couldn’t connect with them. I would have liked to see them take some action as well. However, all they do is seem to talk and talk some more. They really don’t act on anything that they do. They just talk about and think about it.
Also, the characters are still really underdeveloped for my liking. They are all the same and it makes it really difficult to keep everyone straight. I would have liked to see a bit more depth to them. Again, with this being the second book, we should have the foundations to all of our main characters. Instead, it feels like they were just there for the sake of being there. I said this about the first book and I’ll say it again: You have to develop your characters if you want your readers to care about them. Plus, we don’t know enough about them and there’s not enough about them, I believe, to carry the rest of the series.
Anyway, I just think that I’m the wrong person for this series and I don’t think I will be reading the next book.
This book comes out on May 26, 2020.
Author: Jeffe Kennedy
Rating: 1 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank the publisher, St. Martin’s Press, for providing me with an ARC.
I really do think that this is a series that’s not for me. As much as I wanted to really enjoy these books, I just couldn’t. I’ve struggled to make a connection with the characters and the plot. I don’t know what about these books that make it so difficult for me to get into.
The plot is too slow for my liking. I was looking for an epic fantasy read and I didn’t get that. Instead, I got a slow moving plot with a ton of focus on romance. To me, this felt like a romance book with fantasy elements thrown in. Normally, I don’t mind romance at all in my fantasy books, but the heavy focus on it here just turned me away. I found myself skimming the pages and hoping for some action. I just wish that we had a little bit of the fantasy and less on the romance. Yes, I know that it takes a while for fantasy to build up, but this is the second book. If it hasn’t came by now, it’s probably not going to happen.
I also really didn’t care about the characters. I felt like there was no character growth between the first and second books. They just didn’t really fit with the world and I just couldn’t connect with them. I would have liked to see them take some action as well. However, all they do is seem to talk and talk some more. They really don’t act on anything that they do. They just talk about and think about it.
Also, the characters are still really underdeveloped for my liking. They are all the same and it makes it really difficult to keep everyone straight. I would have liked to see a bit more depth to them. Again, with this being the second book, we should have the foundations to all of our main characters. Instead, it feels like they were just there for the sake of being there. I said this about the first book and I’ll say it again: You have to develop your characters if you want your readers to care about them. Plus, we don’t know enough about them and there’s not enough about them, I believe, to carry the rest of the series.
Anyway, I just think that I’m the wrong person for this series and I don’t think I will be reading the next book.
This book comes out on May 26, 2020.
April 7, 2020
-- Read this review and more on my blog www.hookedbythatbook.com –
This book follows The Orchid Throne, and sees Lia and Con in an uneasy truce with each other. Each one has their own motivations for their union, and they don’t trust each other. They do come together well in die bedroom, though, which gives them some platform to build on. Emperor Anure is not giving up on his plan to have Lia for himself, and Con, Lia, and their advisors hatch a plan to draw the emperor out. And of course, things don’t quite go as planned for the people of Calanthe.
I didn’t read the first book, I wasn’t even aware there was one when I started this. And honestly, it didn’t matter to me. The world and the people and how everything fit together made sense. I admit, there were parts where I felt that maybe I’m missing something here, but it wasn’t anything that really hindered my enjoyment of the story.
The book is written from both Con and Lia’s points of view (alternating chapters), and that was interesting and gave a full picture of what was going on. Their relationship was very well defined and also very well developed. I loved both of them, and was rooting for them all the way.
The story flowed well with lots of action, and character growth. I definitely felt that there has to be more to Lia’s magic and that she should be able of great feats, but I guess that is still coming (I sure hope so). The book ended at an appropriate spot in the story, though it is definitely not the end of their journey yet. I had an “oh no!” moment there when I realised I have reached the end of the book.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing met with an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book follows The Orchid Throne, and sees Lia and Con in an uneasy truce with each other. Each one has their own motivations for their union, and they don’t trust each other. They do come together well in die bedroom, though, which gives them some platform to build on. Emperor Anure is not giving up on his plan to have Lia for himself, and Con, Lia, and their advisors hatch a plan to draw the emperor out. And of course, things don’t quite go as planned for the people of Calanthe.
I didn’t read the first book, I wasn’t even aware there was one when I started this. And honestly, it didn’t matter to me. The world and the people and how everything fit together made sense. I admit, there were parts where I felt that maybe I’m missing something here, but it wasn’t anything that really hindered my enjoyment of the story.
The book is written from both Con and Lia’s points of view (alternating chapters), and that was interesting and gave a full picture of what was going on. Their relationship was very well defined and also very well developed. I loved both of them, and was rooting for them all the way.
The story flowed well with lots of action, and character growth. I definitely felt that there has to be more to Lia’s magic and that she should be able of great feats, but I guess that is still coming (I sure hope so). The book ended at an appropriate spot in the story, though it is definitely not the end of their journey yet. I had an “oh no!” moment there when I realised I have reached the end of the book.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing met with an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 12, 2020
The Firey Crown is book two in the Forgotten Empires books by Jeffe Kennedy and if you are looking for a fantasy with some romance included, you might consider checking this series out. As a book two, I’ll do my best not to include any spoilers for this installment, but I can’t promise anything for book one.
This book picks up shortly after book one wraps up. Conri and Lia are trying to figure out how to navigate their new marriage right along with figuring out who the other is…and it’s not very easy when despite their shared enemy, they have slightly different ideas of how to get to their shared goal.
The story makes a lot of progress in this installment as both Conri and Lia face off with Anure and come to realize what is really most important to them. I thought Kennedy did a great job of not only showing the conflict Conri and Lia had with Anure but also between themselves. They continue to battle each other as Conri wants his revenge and Lia is determined to protect Calanthe and neither can see yet how to do both.
As Lia and Conri begin to open up, they start to learn more about each other, and it was nice to get more background on both. Lia’s background and connection to Calanthe becomes a bit more clear and I found it to be a piece of the story that makes this fantasy unique.
The secondary characters continue to help drive the story forward. Ambrose is still a bit of a mystery but I’m hoping the next book gives us a bit more. In addition to this, there was plenty of action and enough of the sexy times to make me call out the romance aspect. It is very clear that Lia and Conri do not have a problem connecting in that arena.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will pick up the next book when it comes. If you’re looking for an adult fantasy, consider checking this series out. It’s a fairly quick read, has an interesting story, and solid characters whose stories will keep you turning the pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book picks up shortly after book one wraps up. Conri and Lia are trying to figure out how to navigate their new marriage right along with figuring out who the other is…and it’s not very easy when despite their shared enemy, they have slightly different ideas of how to get to their shared goal.
The story makes a lot of progress in this installment as both Conri and Lia face off with Anure and come to realize what is really most important to them. I thought Kennedy did a great job of not only showing the conflict Conri and Lia had with Anure but also between themselves. They continue to battle each other as Conri wants his revenge and Lia is determined to protect Calanthe and neither can see yet how to do both.
As Lia and Conri begin to open up, they start to learn more about each other, and it was nice to get more background on both. Lia’s background and connection to Calanthe becomes a bit more clear and I found it to be a piece of the story that makes this fantasy unique.
The secondary characters continue to help drive the story forward. Ambrose is still a bit of a mystery but I’m hoping the next book gives us a bit more. In addition to this, there was plenty of action and enough of the sexy times to make me call out the romance aspect. It is very clear that Lia and Conri do not have a problem connecting in that arena.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will pick up the next book when it comes. If you’re looking for an adult fantasy, consider checking this series out. It’s a fairly quick read, has an interesting story, and solid characters whose stories will keep you turning the pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2020
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*
The Fiery Crown is the second book in the Forgotten Empires series, the first book, The Orchid Throne, needs to be read in order.
As the Queen of Flowers is getting to know her new husband, Conri, she's also realizing her position in the political fall out when shunning the Emperor. She doesn't agree with her husbands ideas, and really fights against him at every turn but they do come to an understanding.
Calanthe needs to be kept away from any violence, but as the emperor is determined to claim what is his, it doesn't seem feasible to keep Calanthe safe.
This book definitely extended the storyline and kept me interested once I got past the first 2/3 of the book. The first 2/3 was arguing, conversing, and traveling. The characters come together, but it most definitely wasn't exciting. Once I got to 70% though, all bets are off! It was like a totally different book! Action, angst, anxiety - all of these come together to make this story really come alive.
I do need to say that Conri, as a character, started to annoy me. He never seemed to grow as a person and instead just stays stubborn and bull-headed. I understand where he comes from, but he just doesn't evolve. Sondra, and Lia both are able to learn from their circumstances and I appreciate that a lot.
Knowing what happens in this book, I will say that the third book is going to be amazing...there's no where to go but up with this story!
The Fiery Crown is the second book in the Forgotten Empires series, the first book, The Orchid Throne, needs to be read in order.
As the Queen of Flowers is getting to know her new husband, Conri, she's also realizing her position in the political fall out when shunning the Emperor. She doesn't agree with her husbands ideas, and really fights against him at every turn but they do come to an understanding.
Calanthe needs to be kept away from any violence, but as the emperor is determined to claim what is his, it doesn't seem feasible to keep Calanthe safe.
This book definitely extended the storyline and kept me interested once I got past the first 2/3 of the book. The first 2/3 was arguing, conversing, and traveling. The characters come together, but it most definitely wasn't exciting. Once I got to 70% though, all bets are off! It was like a totally different book! Action, angst, anxiety - all of these come together to make this story really come alive.
I do need to say that Conri, as a character, started to annoy me. He never seemed to grow as a person and instead just stays stubborn and bull-headed. I understand where he comes from, but he just doesn't evolve. Sondra, and Lia both are able to learn from their circumstances and I appreciate that a lot.
Knowing what happens in this book, I will say that the third book is going to be amazing...there's no where to go but up with this story!
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