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The Fires of Treason #1
The Fires of Treason
Princess Elizabeth has always idolized and supported her older brother, but when Greg is accused of treason and banished, her loyalty to him is tested in ways she never could've imagined. As she leaves her luxurious lifestyle behind to join him in exile, she must learn to cope with the everyday struggles of the working class, all while keeping her true identity a secret. Facing new hardships and the looming threat of execution, Elizabeth will need to toughen up if she has any chance of surviving outside the palace walls.
Prince Gregory spent his entire life trying to prove himself worthy of the crown until his banishment releases him of all the pressures and obligations that have chained him down. Although he has no intention of raising an army to defend his birthright, he soon learns that not everyone is content to let him walk away from the throne. With his sister's safety and well-being to consider, Gregory must make a decision that will change both their lives forever.
Prince Gregory spent his entire life trying to prove himself worthy of the crown until his banishment releases him of all the pressures and obligations that have chained him down. Although he has no intention of raising an army to defend his birthright, he soon learns that not everyone is content to let him walk away from the throne. With his sister's safety and well-being to consider, Gregory must make a decision that will change both their lives forever.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2020
15 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Michele Quirke
2 books137 followersMichele Quirke is an up and coming historical fantasy author. She currently lives in rural Pennsylvania with her husband, son, and their cat, Link.
The Fires of Treason is her first published novel.
The Fires of Treason is her first published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
October 28, 2021
I loved THE FIRES OF TREASON, a historical fantasy set in the 1500s by author Michele Quirke. Prince Gregory is not having a good day. He’s returned from the battlefront to find his father, the king, furious that he dared show mercy to the rebel forces he was sent out to slaughter. His true love Lucy may have found company with another. His older sister Bernadette (who was wonderfully horrible to read in every scene) is plotting his demise. And he’s had a fight with the one person in his life who always has his back—his younger sister Elizabeth.
When Gregory discovers Lucy with another man—his cousin Thomas—and the two fight, Gregory is sentenced to death, setting off the main hero’s quest journey of the novel. Gregory is in exile. Elizabeth is determined to find and save him. Many books of this sort feature a romantic couple in a setting such as this and the choice of instead showing Gregory and Elizabeth’s sibling bond was lovely. Gregory is admirable in his determination to always do the right thing, no matter the consequences. Elizabeth’s fierce spirit made her a favorite to read.
Other important things I learned from reading this novel: how to make a bed in the woods, why one should not eat undercooked badger, the hard work ladies’ maids performed during this time period, the perils of medieval medicine (shivers), why nuns and friars shouldn’t dance together while undercover (LOL), and lastly, why one should always have a trusty and adorable horse with a whimsical name (and a good supply of apples.) Loved the little notes of humor throughout 😊. 5/5 stars.
When Gregory discovers Lucy with another man—his cousin Thomas—and the two fight, Gregory is sentenced to death, setting off the main hero’s quest journey of the novel. Gregory is in exile. Elizabeth is determined to find and save him. Many books of this sort feature a romantic couple in a setting such as this and the choice of instead showing Gregory and Elizabeth’s sibling bond was lovely. Gregory is admirable in his determination to always do the right thing, no matter the consequences. Elizabeth’s fierce spirit made her a favorite to read.
Other important things I learned from reading this novel: how to make a bed in the woods, why one should not eat undercooked badger, the hard work ladies’ maids performed during this time period, the perils of medieval medicine (shivers), why nuns and friars shouldn’t dance together while undercover (LOL), and lastly, why one should always have a trusty and adorable horse with a whimsical name (and a good supply of apples.) Loved the little notes of humor throughout 😊. 5/5 stars.
February 25, 2023
A Heart-warming tale centered around a brother and sister.
The Fires of Treason is set in a fictitious dystopian land ruled by a cruel King. Not even being the son and daughter of this king guarantees Gregory and Elizabeth their safety, especially not when another sister, the brutal and cunning Bernadette, will go to any lengths to usurp power from Gregory, who is heir to the throne. Ms. Quirke's gave her protagonists just enough flaws to make them interesting, and their unshakable sibling bond increases the appeal of each. This is a fine beginning to a series and I look forward to learning what is next in store for this royal pair!
The Fires of Treason is set in a fictitious dystopian land ruled by a cruel King. Not even being the son and daughter of this king guarantees Gregory and Elizabeth their safety, especially not when another sister, the brutal and cunning Bernadette, will go to any lengths to usurp power from Gregory, who is heir to the throne. Ms. Quirke's gave her protagonists just enough flaws to make them interesting, and their unshakable sibling bond increases the appeal of each. This is a fine beginning to a series and I look forward to learning what is next in store for this royal pair!
September 23, 2021
I loved Fires of Treason! First off, the fictional world is called Caracalla, so I knew the world would be brutal in a splendid way. Even though the name of the world hails from the Severan dynasty, the world is reminiscent of Tudor England in terms of its delicious trappings. The world building is thorough, and I had a good sense of the minute details of this place. As an art historian, these details appeal to me.
I also enjoyed the sibling dynamic. I bonded and fought with my siblings partially because of our odd childhood. This is a fun and sometimes serious book that fans of historical fantasy will likely enjoy.
I also enjoyed the sibling dynamic. I bonded and fought with my siblings partially because of our odd childhood. This is a fun and sometimes serious book that fans of historical fantasy will likely enjoy.
November 8, 2021
I'm going to get out in front of this, and say this was such a well written book. From start to finish, there wasn't a single thing that felt off. Keeping in line with the great writing, the plot and characters were also just as well done.
Elizabeth and Gregory are both great characters in their own right, and vastly different from one another which made their relationship throughout the book so enjoyable to read. Seriously, if you're looking for sibling feels and conflict, this is exactly all that and more. Both characters felt well thought out, and alive.
As for the world, I can tell there was a lot of research and care that went into it. That said, nothing felt unnecessary. We're given just enough about the world, and everything within it, and it all felt all so immersive. The plot itself was very well paced, and it felt much shorter than it was, in the best of ways.
Anyone looking for a good historical fantasy, look no further. I will say there's no romance in here, so don't expect that, but it's not needed here. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, and seeing where their journeys go from here.
Elizabeth and Gregory are both great characters in their own right, and vastly different from one another which made their relationship throughout the book so enjoyable to read. Seriously, if you're looking for sibling feels and conflict, this is exactly all that and more. Both characters felt well thought out, and alive.
As for the world, I can tell there was a lot of research and care that went into it. That said, nothing felt unnecessary. We're given just enough about the world, and everything within it, and it all felt all so immersive. The plot itself was very well paced, and it felt much shorter than it was, in the best of ways.
Anyone looking for a good historical fantasy, look no further. I will say there's no romance in here, so don't expect that, but it's not needed here. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel, and seeing where their journeys go from here.
August 10, 2021
More 3.5 stars.
This book had a great brother/sister relationship at its core. After growing up in an abusive and dysfunctional family, they maintained immense loyal to eachother, but still bickered like normal siblings. I think this relationship was the strongest selling point of the book.
This book had a great brother/sister relationship at its core. After growing up in an abusive and dysfunctional family, they maintained immense loyal to eachother, but still bickered like normal siblings. I think this relationship was the strongest selling point of the book.
July 25, 2021
In “The Fires of Treason”, Michele Quirke’s debut novel, an unshakeable bond between royal brother and sister, a quashed rebellion, an illicit affair, a scheming sister, an abusive king, an assassination attempt, and more, make for a very well-written and involving historical fantasy.
The story is set in an Renaissance-era fictional European-esque Kingdom, called Caracalla, where an insurrection against the ruling and villainous King Charles of the house of Cavendish has taken place. The king is despotic, and wants the rebels ALL captured and executed. The widowed sovereign sends his eldest child and heir to the throne, Crown Prince Gregory Cavendish, to lead the forces charged with mercilessly crushing the revolt. Meanwhile, Gregory’s younger sister Elizabeth Cavendish, enjoys a life of relative leisure at court.
The siblings are very close, and those bonds are tested when Gregory, a reasonable, merciful, and compassionate leader, is exiled for failing in the eyes of the king to dispatch all the revolutionaries, accused of treason to the crown. Gregory’s other sister, the scheming Bernadette, is named heir in Gregory’s place. Gregory’s banishment sets in motion a series of events where Gregory and Elizabeth set off on adventure, filled with danger, and uncertainty in what was supposed to be two very certain futures for nobles originally destined to be at the very pinnacle their of society.
The novel is primarily a heart-warming exploration of sibling affection and loyalty. Like many brothers and sisters, Gregory and Elizabeth are two strong personalities who certainly have their flaws, idiosyncrasies and opinions which put them at odds with each other. They can both be temperamental, stubborn, and impulsive. Yet, their relationship is a testament to fidelity and sacrifice for one another.
Elizabeth’s intelligence, bravery and decisiveness in the face of peril, ability to deal with living as a commoner, kindness, and capacity for growth and forgiveness make her a lovable character. Gregory is honourable, determined, and tries to take the moral high ground in all his decisions. Elizabeth is Gregory’s biggest fan and advocate, and in turn Gregory protects and nurtures his younger sister. With both of these main characters, their quirkiness, their fears and insecurities, and ultimately their integrity and care for humanity, shine through. Their relationship is touching, and their personalities are easy to like, even when they are at their most annoying. The two royal protagonists are assuredly the jewel of the novel.
But there are so many more positives about this book besides the exceptionally-drawn characters. The writing is silky, immaculate. The themes presented in the novel were compelling. Gregory and Elizabeth are forced to confront moral questions about self-preservation versus life-taking, stealing versus perishing from hunger, and the benefits, disadvantages, and limits of absolute power. I found how they dealt with these situations, and how Quirke put her characters in these uncomfortable dilemmas, fascinating. It was very interesting so see the choices the two young nobles made, when confronted with life-altering decisions that carried grave repercussions, not only for themselves, but in some cases, for their country.
I was very impressed by “The Fires of Treason” and the writing of Michele Quirk. I am greatly anticipating the next chapter in the story of the Cavendish Royal Family of Caracalla.
The story is set in an Renaissance-era fictional European-esque Kingdom, called Caracalla, where an insurrection against the ruling and villainous King Charles of the house of Cavendish has taken place. The king is despotic, and wants the rebels ALL captured and executed. The widowed sovereign sends his eldest child and heir to the throne, Crown Prince Gregory Cavendish, to lead the forces charged with mercilessly crushing the revolt. Meanwhile, Gregory’s younger sister Elizabeth Cavendish, enjoys a life of relative leisure at court.
The siblings are very close, and those bonds are tested when Gregory, a reasonable, merciful, and compassionate leader, is exiled for failing in the eyes of the king to dispatch all the revolutionaries, accused of treason to the crown. Gregory’s other sister, the scheming Bernadette, is named heir in Gregory’s place. Gregory’s banishment sets in motion a series of events where Gregory and Elizabeth set off on adventure, filled with danger, and uncertainty in what was supposed to be two very certain futures for nobles originally destined to be at the very pinnacle their of society.
The novel is primarily a heart-warming exploration of sibling affection and loyalty. Like many brothers and sisters, Gregory and Elizabeth are two strong personalities who certainly have their flaws, idiosyncrasies and opinions which put them at odds with each other. They can both be temperamental, stubborn, and impulsive. Yet, their relationship is a testament to fidelity and sacrifice for one another.
Elizabeth’s intelligence, bravery and decisiveness in the face of peril, ability to deal with living as a commoner, kindness, and capacity for growth and forgiveness make her a lovable character. Gregory is honourable, determined, and tries to take the moral high ground in all his decisions. Elizabeth is Gregory’s biggest fan and advocate, and in turn Gregory protects and nurtures his younger sister. With both of these main characters, their quirkiness, their fears and insecurities, and ultimately their integrity and care for humanity, shine through. Their relationship is touching, and their personalities are easy to like, even when they are at their most annoying. The two royal protagonists are assuredly the jewel of the novel.
But there are so many more positives about this book besides the exceptionally-drawn characters. The writing is silky, immaculate. The themes presented in the novel were compelling. Gregory and Elizabeth are forced to confront moral questions about self-preservation versus life-taking, stealing versus perishing from hunger, and the benefits, disadvantages, and limits of absolute power. I found how they dealt with these situations, and how Quirke put her characters in these uncomfortable dilemmas, fascinating. It was very interesting so see the choices the two young nobles made, when confronted with life-altering decisions that carried grave repercussions, not only for themselves, but in some cases, for their country.
I was very impressed by “The Fires of Treason” and the writing of Michele Quirk. I am greatly anticipating the next chapter in the story of the Cavendish Royal Family of Caracalla.
April 24, 2021
There’s a lot to love about The Fires of Treason. So I’m going to start with my little gripes so we can end in a place that is brighter and more positive.
I came in expecting a book labeled “historical fantasy” to contain fantasy elements. Knowing this is classed as a fantasy because of the fictional kingdom of Caracalla may be helpful to a reader hoping for a Wizard or a dragon or other things we typically relate to the term.
Sidebar: there are no elves, magical people, or ogres.
This is my own ignorance of the rather confusing array of genre classifications out there. Always something to learn.
In terms of history, the Tudor period is rendered flawlessly in my opinion. This is a subject I know a bit about. So, that was quite thrilling! On the other side of this, the fictional country and its rulers left me pulled from the narrative a little. Only a little, mostly because this still felt like we were in Tudor England. In this time period a daughter would never be chosen over a son as heir even if the king felt the son was weak. That also pulled me from the narrative at first. (More on this later though.)
The characters were a little hard to live with in the middle chapters. There were a few times where I just wanted the bickering to end. Lol. The characters want this too. This is clear, and while I know you’re supposed to get annoyed with it, and to feel the burden on the characters, it was a bit too much for me at times.
Finally leaving that farmhouse local was great for the story. It needed that forward momentum and from there it really flies and engages. This is my preference for faster pacing rearing its head. Again I think the author achieved their goal in this section. Just didn’t exactly work for my attention span. (Or my personal need for momentum. I would be terrible in a situation like the one in the book.)
I am disappointed they didn’t go back for that one character. But I know this will either come back to haunt them or they’ll get another crack. So I’m being patient... #SaveClara
It feels like I’m picking the book apart. But...
Now that I’m done with my criticism...
The grammar, editing, formatting and clarity are exceptional! The author has a strong vocabulary. This a brilliantly and beautifully assembled work. Bravo.
This is fiction.
So despite my feeling this is a historical inaccuracy, a king picking a daughter over a “weak and disobedient” son is more up my alley as a reader, writer, and a person. Time period be damned. Equality between men and women is awesome! This gets a pass because it’s clear the research is done and the author made the active choice to do this. Bravo.
This is at it’s heart, a story of unconditional brother/sister love. They annoy the crap out of each other but they have each other’s backs no matter what.
The character growth is strong. They come to terms with the feelings they hide. They share these feelings and despite not completely agreeing on things, they have become a pair that can compromise, and can truly tell each other any thought. I’m expecting the bond they forge going forward will be something of mythical and legendary proportions.
I think a lot of this book and the author. I’m here for the next. And next time I can check my preconceptions at the door!
I came in expecting a book labeled “historical fantasy” to contain fantasy elements. Knowing this is classed as a fantasy because of the fictional kingdom of Caracalla may be helpful to a reader hoping for a Wizard or a dragon or other things we typically relate to the term.
Sidebar: there are no elves, magical people, or ogres.
This is my own ignorance of the rather confusing array of genre classifications out there. Always something to learn.
In terms of history, the Tudor period is rendered flawlessly in my opinion. This is a subject I know a bit about. So, that was quite thrilling! On the other side of this, the fictional country and its rulers left me pulled from the narrative a little. Only a little, mostly because this still felt like we were in Tudor England. In this time period a daughter would never be chosen over a son as heir even if the king felt the son was weak. That also pulled me from the narrative at first. (More on this later though.)
The characters were a little hard to live with in the middle chapters. There were a few times where I just wanted the bickering to end. Lol. The characters want this too. This is clear, and while I know you’re supposed to get annoyed with it, and to feel the burden on the characters, it was a bit too much for me at times.
Finally leaving that farmhouse local was great for the story. It needed that forward momentum and from there it really flies and engages. This is my preference for faster pacing rearing its head. Again I think the author achieved their goal in this section. Just didn’t exactly work for my attention span. (Or my personal need for momentum. I would be terrible in a situation like the one in the book.)
I am disappointed they didn’t go back for that one character. But I know this will either come back to haunt them or they’ll get another crack. So I’m being patient... #SaveClara
It feels like I’m picking the book apart. But...
Now that I’m done with my criticism...
The grammar, editing, formatting and clarity are exceptional! The author has a strong vocabulary. This a brilliantly and beautifully assembled work. Bravo.
This is fiction.
So despite my feeling this is a historical inaccuracy, a king picking a daughter over a “weak and disobedient” son is more up my alley as a reader, writer, and a person. Time period be damned. Equality between men and women is awesome! This gets a pass because it’s clear the research is done and the author made the active choice to do this. Bravo.
This is at it’s heart, a story of unconditional brother/sister love. They annoy the crap out of each other but they have each other’s backs no matter what.
The character growth is strong. They come to terms with the feelings they hide. They share these feelings and despite not completely agreeing on things, they have become a pair that can compromise, and can truly tell each other any thought. I’m expecting the bond they forge going forward will be something of mythical and legendary proportions.
I think a lot of this book and the author. I’m here for the next. And next time I can check my preconceptions at the door!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2022
The Fires of Treason is an amazing debut novel with a bit of something for everyone.
Let me start out by saying that historical fiction isn’t my usual genre, but after hearing so many great things about this book, I had to check it out, and I’m so glad I did!
Elizabeth and Greg were both wonderful characters. Their sibling bond was strong but they still bickered and acted how I think siblings would put in the situation they were in. I found them both enjoyable to read about as they dealt with the dismal hand they were given by their father and cruel older sister.
The book was also impeccably edited. Rarely do I find a book where I can’t pick out a misspelling and I don’t think I did in this one so kudos to Quirke for the great job!
This story was overall lovely. I can see people of all ages enjoying this book from 30-somethings to young teens to grandparents looking for a good book to read to their grandchildren and that in itself is a feat.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fires of Treason and I can’t wait for the sequel!
Let me start out by saying that historical fiction isn’t my usual genre, but after hearing so many great things about this book, I had to check it out, and I’m so glad I did!
Elizabeth and Greg were both wonderful characters. Their sibling bond was strong but they still bickered and acted how I think siblings would put in the situation they were in. I found them both enjoyable to read about as they dealt with the dismal hand they were given by their father and cruel older sister.
The book was also impeccably edited. Rarely do I find a book where I can’t pick out a misspelling and I don’t think I did in this one so kudos to Quirke for the great job!
This story was overall lovely. I can see people of all ages enjoying this book from 30-somethings to young teens to grandparents looking for a good book to read to their grandchildren and that in itself is a feat.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fires of Treason and I can’t wait for the sequel!
December 21, 2021
This was a well-written debut that I've been meaning to read for FOREVER. Historical stories aren't my usual genre, but I thought I'd give it a go.
I admired the author's attention to detail and the realism of the work. It truly felt like you were experiencing Greg and Elizabeth's discomfort. The realism sometimes hampered the story a bit—Greg spends a VERY long time recovering from a wound and the siblings' constant squabbling, while realistic, was grating at times and made the middle act slump a bit.
It was refreshing to have a story that focused on a sibling relationship rather than a romantic one, although I look forward to what Quirke does next in the sequel... which promises a bit more in that department. 😊
I admired the author's attention to detail and the realism of the work. It truly felt like you were experiencing Greg and Elizabeth's discomfort. The realism sometimes hampered the story a bit—Greg spends a VERY long time recovering from a wound and the siblings' constant squabbling, while realistic, was grating at times and made the middle act slump a bit.
It was refreshing to have a story that focused on a sibling relationship rather than a romantic one, although I look forward to what Quirke does next in the sequel... which promises a bit more in that department. 😊
April 15, 2021
Michelle Quirk’s debut novel, The Fires of Treason, is (for me, at least) a bit hard to classify. Amazon lists it as historical fantasy, but I really didn’t see any elements of fantasy displayed throughout the story. Perhaps they’re yet to come, in vol. 2, but so far this is definitely lacking in all things magical, or dragon-like. It’s not really historical fiction, since it takes place in an imagined setting, the fictional (Western European) Kingdom of Caracalla. There are references to Rome as the center of Catholicism, as well as to the New World. So I guess personally I’d classify this as Alternative History (?)
That being said, The Fires of Treason is really more a rollicking “road” novel. Prince Gregory of Caracalla, joined by his younger sister Elizabeth, flee the capital after Greg, unjustly accused of treason by his father, is banished. Greg’s father, the king, is a drunkard and a violent brute; his sister, Bernadette, covets Greg’s place in the line of succession, and ultimately his head. His fiancé wants another guy. All things considered, Greg (and Elizabeth) is probably better off anywhere but the palace…
But besides being a road novel, The Fires of Treason is outstanding as both a coming-of-age novel and a study in loyalty. The story is told through alternating points of view, from both Greg and Elizabeth. Greg comes across as a bit overbearing, and Elizabeth is the quintessential brat, and they took a bit of getting used to. While Gregory is the central driving character, the novel’s true fulcrum is Elizabeth. Although she can be selfish, capricious, and outspoken, we watch her change, grow and blossom—not just as a young woman, but as a human being. It is really her coming-of-age story, and a study of her (conflicted) loyalty to her brother. I shan’t get into any spoiler territory, beyond saying that Elizabeth’s ultimate loyalty to Greg leads her into some unimaginable actions and circumstances. Yet she faces the consequences with a growing sense of self (and self-worth). Michelle Quirke does an excellent job of rounding her characters, and bringing them into focus, and forcing you to like them.
I would absolutely recommend The Fires of Treason for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, and I'm eager to read the next installment in Greg and Elizabeth’s journey.
That being said, The Fires of Treason is really more a rollicking “road” novel. Prince Gregory of Caracalla, joined by his younger sister Elizabeth, flee the capital after Greg, unjustly accused of treason by his father, is banished. Greg’s father, the king, is a drunkard and a violent brute; his sister, Bernadette, covets Greg’s place in the line of succession, and ultimately his head. His fiancé wants another guy. All things considered, Greg (and Elizabeth) is probably better off anywhere but the palace…
But besides being a road novel, The Fires of Treason is outstanding as both a coming-of-age novel and a study in loyalty. The story is told through alternating points of view, from both Greg and Elizabeth. Greg comes across as a bit overbearing, and Elizabeth is the quintessential brat, and they took a bit of getting used to. While Gregory is the central driving character, the novel’s true fulcrum is Elizabeth. Although she can be selfish, capricious, and outspoken, we watch her change, grow and blossom—not just as a young woman, but as a human being. It is really her coming-of-age story, and a study of her (conflicted) loyalty to her brother. I shan’t get into any spoiler territory, beyond saying that Elizabeth’s ultimate loyalty to Greg leads her into some unimaginable actions and circumstances. Yet she faces the consequences with a growing sense of self (and self-worth). Michelle Quirke does an excellent job of rounding her characters, and bringing them into focus, and forcing you to like them.
I would absolutely recommend The Fires of Treason for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, and I'm eager to read the next installment in Greg and Elizabeth’s journey.
September 19, 2021
I want to begin by saying what tremendous pleasure it gives me to write this 5-star review for THE FIRES OF TREASON; author Michele Quirke is a guiding light and a force of sheer positivity in the indie fiction community, and it's thrilling to see that this historical fantasy novel is exactly the kind of story you'd expect to read from such an individual: THE FIRES OF TREASON is about fundamentally good people trying to stay good people as the world turns cruel around them... and ultimately (for now) succeeding. Exiled prince Gregory and his sister Elizabeth are strongly rendered and easily likeable characters, and the colorful cast of side characters they encounter on this first leg of their journey into exile are all interesting and challenging in turn. I think my favorite was Father Timothy, a Catholic priest who [spoilers] is hell-bent on convincing Gregory to return to challenge the new heir apparent for the throne... his fervor seems justified at first, but ultimately he succumbs to his own zeal and makes a mistake that costs him his congregation and his sanity. It's operatic moments like this that give THE FIRES OF TREASON real literary grit and backbone, making the novel a standout example of the high bar of quality indie fiction is capable of. I also want to point out the lovely and painterly cover, which is far more interesting and artistically rendered than many boilerplate thrillers put out by the larger publishing houses these days.
All in all, THE FIRES OF TREASON is a pleasant read, despite some of the unpleasant things that happen therein, because of the intrinsic goodness and strong character of the leads; there are no anti-heroes here, only heroes... and I look forward to reading their continuing adventures.
All in all, THE FIRES OF TREASON is a pleasant read, despite some of the unpleasant things that happen therein, because of the intrinsic goodness and strong character of the leads; there are no anti-heroes here, only heroes... and I look forward to reading their continuing adventures.
March 18, 2021
The Fires of Treason by Michele Quirke knocked my socks off! There is so much to like, it’s hard to know where to begin.
This book is a page-turner with realistically developed characters you’ll root for. I found myself staying up way past my bedtime, because I wanted to know what would happen next. When I got to 75% on my Kindle, the tension was ratcheted up so high, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
I enjoyed the entire concept for the storyline. As a history major with a focus on Great Britain, it was fascinating for me to see these characters involved in such an intriguing tale. Michele has clearly done her research, as the world building felt genuine. I was never pulled out of the story and while there are definite fantastic elements here, it is integrated seamlessly. You will love Elizabeth!
I highly recommend this novel. It has it all: great characterization, description, and action. You’ll be swept away to another time and place.
J.G. MacLeod, author
This book is a page-turner with realistically developed characters you’ll root for. I found myself staying up way past my bedtime, because I wanted to know what would happen next. When I got to 75% on my Kindle, the tension was ratcheted up so high, I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
I enjoyed the entire concept for the storyline. As a history major with a focus on Great Britain, it was fascinating for me to see these characters involved in such an intriguing tale. Michele has clearly done her research, as the world building felt genuine. I was never pulled out of the story and while there are definite fantastic elements here, it is integrated seamlessly. You will love Elizabeth!
I highly recommend this novel. It has it all: great characterization, description, and action. You’ll be swept away to another time and place.
J.G. MacLeod, author
April 18, 2021
Real page turner!
I really loved that story! I found it amazingly written, with many turns and twists that kept me thinking: “I didn’t see that coming!” Though the conflict is very difficult, and characters are going through some actual struggles, the light tone of the author makes The Fires of Treason highly enjoyable read.
The characters’ depth kept me impressed with every page. I appreciated every one of them, even these annoying ones! However, the three siblings are just mastered. They are well written, with their reasoning making sense to me (regardless if I did or did not agree with them).
Elizabeth's development as story progress is incredible. She is sharp, funny and caring for the most of the time, but her journey of shifting priorities from comfort to what’s truly important makes her an outstanding character.
The last few chapters were so full of surprises for me, that I just couldn’t put a book down. Now, as I finished reading, I can’t wait for the next book to be out.
I really loved that story! I found it amazingly written, with many turns and twists that kept me thinking: “I didn’t see that coming!” Though the conflict is very difficult, and characters are going through some actual struggles, the light tone of the author makes The Fires of Treason highly enjoyable read.
The characters’ depth kept me impressed with every page. I appreciated every one of them, even these annoying ones! However, the three siblings are just mastered. They are well written, with their reasoning making sense to me (regardless if I did or did not agree with them).
Elizabeth's development as story progress is incredible. She is sharp, funny and caring for the most of the time, but her journey of shifting priorities from comfort to what’s truly important makes her an outstanding character.
The last few chapters were so full of surprises for me, that I just couldn’t put a book down. Now, as I finished reading, I can’t wait for the next book to be out.
January 11, 2021
Much of historical fiction these days is dark and brooding, but Quirke's debut novel is a fun and exciting read with tension enough to keep up the pace, but levity enough to keep the reader invested. The characters are likable and easy to root for, but tangibly human and not without their share of flaws. Watching Gregory and Elizabeth navigate the challenges and tribulations of their exile as well as their relationship as siblings was an enjoyable read as well as a refreshing change of pace to see the story focus on a non-romantic relationship. The book is an easy read but neither is it too simple or juvenile, this is truly a book that can be read and enjoyed by teens as well as adults. Highly recommended, especially to lovers of history and period dramas!
September 2, 2021
One of my favorite relationships in any media is the relationship of siblings. This book has it in spades. The Fires of Treason explores the journey of Elizabeth and Gregory as they endure hardship after hardship in an effort to stay alive. Not only do the two grow individually as people, but the strength of their bond is tested again and again. The world is wonderfully constructed and each of the characters stands on their own and is memorable. As someone who grew up with older siblings, this book struck several emotional chords for me. I hope there is a sequel in the works because I am insanely curious as to where Bessie and Greg's journey will take them next. For those who enjoy historical fantasies and exploration of familial bonds, this is an absolute must-read!
March 20, 2022
Historical fiction (specifically Tudor era) was some of my favorite reads in high school, and reading “Fires of Treason” felt a little bit like coming home!
I was a little hesitant at first, because I struggled to connect with Elizabeth, but oh the *growth*! It was wonderful to watch both her and Gregory grow in their own unique ways. The author did a wonderful job making sure that the characters we were introduced to in the first few chapters grow in accordance to their experiences. I also appreciated that the ending took a different turn than I was expecting (though I won’t spoil it for you)!
Overall, a well-written, wonderful read that explores themes of family, loyalty, and morality in the face of adversity.
I was a little hesitant at first, because I struggled to connect with Elizabeth, but oh the *growth*! It was wonderful to watch both her and Gregory grow in their own unique ways. The author did a wonderful job making sure that the characters we were introduced to in the first few chapters grow in accordance to their experiences. I also appreciated that the ending took a different turn than I was expecting (though I won’t spoil it for you)!
Overall, a well-written, wonderful read that explores themes of family, loyalty, and morality in the face of adversity.
April 16, 2023
What a fun fantasy novel! Michele Quirke has a distinctly contemporary style that blends seamlessly with a historical fantasy setting. With elements of great classics alongside Quirke’s unique voice, The Fires of Treason is a refreshing take on fantasy tropes and themes.
Royal siblings Elizabeth and Greg are put to the test when a series of events takes them away from home and a comfortable lifestyle. Their story has many twists and turns, leaving the reader in suspense while rooting for these tenacious characters.
I can’t recommend this book enough! Quirke is definitely an author to watch. Looking forward to reading more in this series!
Royal siblings Elizabeth and Greg are put to the test when a series of events takes them away from home and a comfortable lifestyle. Their story has many twists and turns, leaving the reader in suspense while rooting for these tenacious characters.
I can’t recommend this book enough! Quirke is definitely an author to watch. Looking forward to reading more in this series!
April 14, 2021
'Fires of Treason' is a great book. Easy to read, difficult to put down. Would highly recommend to teenage readers of the fantasy genre - then again, I'm no teenager and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My daughter read it before me and fell in love with Greg. The relationship between him and his sister, Elizabeth is gorgeous. Hope for more of the same from this author. Especially like to see Bernadette's block knocked off! Great fun.
April 6, 2021
While this is not my normal genre to read, I loved this book. It was a touching and heart-warming story about two siblings (a brother and sister) who must learn how to navigate their new normal living in exile and no longer a part of the royal family. The characters in this book were well-developed and the author did an excellent job at showing their personal growth through the book. I loved the relationship between Elizabeth and Greg and their intense loyalty to one another. Quirke did an excellent job at adding layers to their characters so they behaved like real siblings despite their loyalty to each other, adding in moments where they bickered and annoyed each other. I felt like I knew Greg and Elizabeth and I was 100% invested in their story.
Quirke also did such a phenomenal job with world-building that I forgot I was reading about a fictional kingdom. And, there were definitely some events that completely caught me off guard. I cannot wait to read the 2nd book to see what happens next on Greg's and Elizabeth's journey.
Quirke also did such a phenomenal job with world-building that I forgot I was reading about a fictional kingdom. And, there were definitely some events that completely caught me off guard. I cannot wait to read the 2nd book to see what happens next on Greg's and Elizabeth's journey.
September 11, 2023
4.5
The Fires of Treason is a historical fantasy involving two siblings the young Princess Elizabeth and her twenty-two-year-old brother, Prince Gregory.
The chapter starts with the POV of General Howard, and his ire eyes pressed on the back of Prince Gregory as he makes his long-awaited return home. It was unclear what the rebellion was about in the beginning, who led it, and why it was caused but this became the tension between Prince Gregory and his father, King Charles, and to add to that list: his subjects, his rivalry with his other sister Princess Bernadette, and people (whom I won’t mention for the sake of not sharing spoilers) who betrayed his trust.
Throughout the book, I had questions about why King Charles was the way he was aside from being a drunkard. He was directly and indiscriminately authoritarian to his son a tad bit more than his daughters and we’re hinted this was even before their mother passed. He calls him weak and a coward, even when he and Elizabeth were children and we’re often seeing them relive or recall memories where he was awful to them. It made me wonder if King Charles saw something in Gregory that perhaps he wished he had or is envious of as he had to be pretty delusional to care more about how many rebels were killed and in the spur of the moment take away his son's long claim for the crown. Thankfully we meet Father Timothy down the road who becomes a glass of refreshing water, at least for a while as we learn that everyone wants to control Gregory's destiny, which becomes a changing and satisfying moment for him and Elizabeth at the end of the book!
I adored the strong bond Gregory and Elizabeth hold, even when they sometimes feel like they can’t rely on each other they also find themselves realizing how much they need each other. There were a lot of back-and-forth reminders about what the siblings mean to each other throughout the chapters, but overall I found that Prince Gregory was easy to like and I found myself taking his side while everyone outed him. His pledge to still be the person we met in the first chapter (despite him admitting the rebellion changed him) and seeing his growth and dependence on others and his sister makes you root for the siblings! Princess Elizabeth, though young, shielded, and naive about killing had maturity about matters of the court where she wasn’t afraid to stand on her own. Though she sometimes pressed her high morals on her brother, I found that this was the only way the two siblings could survive their abusive father inside and out. And in order not to not become him, they unconsciously cling to goodness and justice! This book feels like a YA historical fantasy to me and I think fans of historical settings, sibling bond (a personal favorite of mine), and character-driven fantasy should give this book a fiery read!
The Fires of Treason is a historical fantasy involving two siblings the young Princess Elizabeth and her twenty-two-year-old brother, Prince Gregory.
The chapter starts with the POV of General Howard, and his ire eyes pressed on the back of Prince Gregory as he makes his long-awaited return home. It was unclear what the rebellion was about in the beginning, who led it, and why it was caused but this became the tension between Prince Gregory and his father, King Charles, and to add to that list: his subjects, his rivalry with his other sister Princess Bernadette, and people (whom I won’t mention for the sake of not sharing spoilers) who betrayed his trust.
Throughout the book, I had questions about why King Charles was the way he was aside from being a drunkard. He was directly and indiscriminately authoritarian to his son a tad bit more than his daughters and we’re hinted this was even before their mother passed. He calls him weak and a coward, even when he and Elizabeth were children and we’re often seeing them relive or recall memories where he was awful to them. It made me wonder if King Charles saw something in Gregory that perhaps he wished he had or is envious of as he had to be pretty delusional to care more about how many rebels were killed and in the spur of the moment take away his son's long claim for the crown. Thankfully we meet Father Timothy down the road who becomes a glass of refreshing water, at least for a while as we learn that everyone wants to control Gregory's destiny, which becomes a changing and satisfying moment for him and Elizabeth at the end of the book!
I adored the strong bond Gregory and Elizabeth hold, even when they sometimes feel like they can’t rely on each other they also find themselves realizing how much they need each other. There were a lot of back-and-forth reminders about what the siblings mean to each other throughout the chapters, but overall I found that Prince Gregory was easy to like and I found myself taking his side while everyone outed him. His pledge to still be the person we met in the first chapter (despite him admitting the rebellion changed him) and seeing his growth and dependence on others and his sister makes you root for the siblings! Princess Elizabeth, though young, shielded, and naive about killing had maturity about matters of the court where she wasn’t afraid to stand on her own. Though she sometimes pressed her high morals on her brother, I found that this was the only way the two siblings could survive their abusive father inside and out. And in order not to not become him, they unconsciously cling to goodness and justice! This book feels like a YA historical fantasy to me and I think fans of historical settings, sibling bond (a personal favorite of mine), and character-driven fantasy should give this book a fiery read!
February 11, 2022
A richly detailed world, a complex brother-sister relationship, lots of political intrigue and peril! Readers who enjoy historical fantasy will find much to love. Emotions are running high during a time of upheaval, and the sibling banter provides a nice foil to the drama and danger. It's not my usual genre so it felt a bit slow at times, and there were some small errors sprinkled throughout, but those don't detract from the obvious talent and passion that the author poured into the story.
June 11, 2021
I've never seen a book with so many annoying characters pull it off so well. Greg is just the right amount of overbearing older brother. Elizabeth is just bratty enough to have room to grow and mature. Clara is just annoying, but the rest of the cast make up for it.
The plot is mostly a fairly standard journey sort of plot, but it comes with a great twist towards the end that I won't spoil.
The author's style and vocabulary are eloquent and enjoyable to read.
All in all, The Fires of Treason is a thoroughly enjoyable book with an excellent twist and excellent characters. I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next for Greg and Bess as they continue their journey
The plot is mostly a fairly standard journey sort of plot, but it comes with a great twist towards the end that I won't spoil.
The author's style and vocabulary are eloquent and enjoyable to read.
All in all, The Fires of Treason is a thoroughly enjoyable book with an excellent twist and excellent characters. I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next for Greg and Bess as they continue their journey
October 13, 2021
Hook, Line, and Sinker!
Usually, historical fiction isn’t my jam. I loved watching Outlander but haven’t finished the book. The Fires of Treason has converted me. After Prince Gregory is betrayed, you can feel his pain when everything is lost to him. The struggles with his inner demons and the regrets of his decisions follow him until his little sister, Princess Elizabeth finds him. She nurses him back to health and has quite a few of her own struggles to muddle through. Honestly, Elizabeth’s growth as a person made her my favorite character. Now that I’m hooked with the characters, I need to know what happens next in the story!
Usually, historical fiction isn’t my jam. I loved watching Outlander but haven’t finished the book. The Fires of Treason has converted me. After Prince Gregory is betrayed, you can feel his pain when everything is lost to him. The struggles with his inner demons and the regrets of his decisions follow him until his little sister, Princess Elizabeth finds him. She nurses him back to health and has quite a few of her own struggles to muddle through. Honestly, Elizabeth’s growth as a person made her my favorite character. Now that I’m hooked with the characters, I need to know what happens next in the story!
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May 20, 2022The Fires of Treason is, through and through, a character novel (my favorite!). Its plot is centered around the choices and development of the two main characters, Gregory and Elizabeth, and driven by the same. The characters feel like real people, with real flaws, misunderstandings, and stupidities (such as not realizing that one can’t pretend to be a peasant very well while making sure one doesn’t smell like a peasant, or that life in exile instead of as royalty may present such problems as a grumbling stomach!). Sometimes these flaws aren’t quite what one would expect, like with us real people. They are also very well-intentioned and sincere, and I loved that. When The Fires of Treason starts, Gregory is just returning from a campaign where he was told by his father, the King, to kill everyone, and after the rebel army surrendered he settled for only executing its leaders. Even those deaths haunt him, and when Elizabeth tells him he had no choice, he replies:
“Everything is a choice. … and I made the wrong one.”
As they interact with each other, hurt each other, reject each other, make up with each other, and suffer exile (and a botched assassination attempt) together, Gregory and Elizabeth’s characters are further revealed through their responses to each trial and to each other. I couldn’t tell you all of it without giving the plot away, but it was awesome and wonderful! They can act very juvenile (which they are), right after placing everything they have and are in the protection or service of the other. (That is something I enjoyed about this novel; it shows an awesome, very close, well-developed relationship between siblings, definitely not at all romantic).
I loved Gregory. He’s spent most of his life loving and caring for his sister, Elizabeth, as their older sister, Bernadette, is a psychopath. He’s spent his spare time and energy making her toys and being there for her as much as possible, and he has tried, whenever he could, to take the wrath and punishment of their most-unfatherly King for her, making out whatever supposed ‘failing’ of hers had maddened their father was his fault if possible and hiding her whenever that wasn’t possible. When he’s disowned and exiled, he firmly insists that he will be no part of that very thing the rejection of which is the cause for his exile: bloodshed. No matter how many people declare to them that they are ready to fight and die for him, and no matter how hard some of them beg him to reach for the throne that is his ‘birthright’, he declines. He wants no part of the bloodbath that would ensue. He does not want anyone dying in his name. Nonetheless, he has to eventually come to terms with the bitterness and hate boiling up in him that he has always rejected and kept hidden, and find the freedom in his exile. I felt for him so strongly and loved reading about him so much! He’s at once noble and immature, human.
Elizabeth is a good character, too, but she did not resonate with me as much as Gregory did. She’s unwilling to kill so much as a rabbit and cannot be taken on a hunt since she will scare away the prey, but she doesn’t realize the lives a rebellion would cost, and lives under the assumption that, once he is ready, Gregory will reach for the throne. She gives up everything to be with Gregory, and continues to adamantly insists that she is willing to give up everything to be with Gregory, and she means it and would mean it even if she understood what it meant, but she is woefully unaware of what a life in exile, rather than as a princess, involves and grumbles and whines a great deal about its difficulties.
I can’t tell you about every development and response and resolution of Greg and Elizabeth without telling the whole story, but I loved it all, and will call attention to where when Elizabeth learns that he does not intend to be King, Gregory explains to her what the cost of him reaching for the throne would be, all the people Bernadette would kill if she so much as suspected their plans, and she finally gets it. No life is expendable. None.
I will say it again: I really loved the character development. However (and this was not an issue for me), if you are looking for something with deep and complex political intrigue, this may disappoint. I did not mind the simplicity at all, as it gave front and center stage to the characters, but the politics are, though not non-existent, relatively simple and undeveloped. It’s not a political novel.
This review appeared first on Enthralled By Love (Paths of Fantasy)
“Everything is a choice. … and I made the wrong one.”
As they interact with each other, hurt each other, reject each other, make up with each other, and suffer exile (and a botched assassination attempt) together, Gregory and Elizabeth’s characters are further revealed through their responses to each trial and to each other. I couldn’t tell you all of it without giving the plot away, but it was awesome and wonderful! They can act very juvenile (which they are), right after placing everything they have and are in the protection or service of the other. (That is something I enjoyed about this novel; it shows an awesome, very close, well-developed relationship between siblings, definitely not at all romantic).
I loved Gregory. He’s spent most of his life loving and caring for his sister, Elizabeth, as their older sister, Bernadette, is a psychopath. He’s spent his spare time and energy making her toys and being there for her as much as possible, and he has tried, whenever he could, to take the wrath and punishment of their most-unfatherly King for her, making out whatever supposed ‘failing’ of hers had maddened their father was his fault if possible and hiding her whenever that wasn’t possible. When he’s disowned and exiled, he firmly insists that he will be no part of that very thing the rejection of which is the cause for his exile: bloodshed. No matter how many people declare to them that they are ready to fight and die for him, and no matter how hard some of them beg him to reach for the throne that is his ‘birthright’, he declines. He wants no part of the bloodbath that would ensue. He does not want anyone dying in his name. Nonetheless, he has to eventually come to terms with the bitterness and hate boiling up in him that he has always rejected and kept hidden, and find the freedom in his exile. I felt for him so strongly and loved reading about him so much! He’s at once noble and immature, human.
Elizabeth is a good character, too, but she did not resonate with me as much as Gregory did. She’s unwilling to kill so much as a rabbit and cannot be taken on a hunt since she will scare away the prey, but she doesn’t realize the lives a rebellion would cost, and lives under the assumption that, once he is ready, Gregory will reach for the throne. She gives up everything to be with Gregory, and continues to adamantly insists that she is willing to give up everything to be with Gregory, and she means it and would mean it even if she understood what it meant, but she is woefully unaware of what a life in exile, rather than as a princess, involves and grumbles and whines a great deal about its difficulties.
I can’t tell you about every development and response and resolution of Greg and Elizabeth without telling the whole story, but I loved it all, and will call attention to where when Elizabeth learns that he does not intend to be King, Gregory explains to her what the cost of him reaching for the throne would be, all the people Bernadette would kill if she so much as suspected their plans, and she finally gets it. No life is expendable. None.
I will say it again: I really loved the character development. However (and this was not an issue for me), if you are looking for something with deep and complex political intrigue, this may disappoint. I did not mind the simplicity at all, as it gave front and center stage to the characters, but the politics are, though not non-existent, relatively simple and undeveloped. It’s not a political novel.
This review appeared first on Enthralled By Love (Paths of Fantasy)
August 30, 2021
While historical fiction of any kind is a genre I tend to avoid, Michele Quirke’s superb debut, The Fires of Treason, may have converted me to a fan. Not only was the dialogue kept more modern, which allowed for smooth reading, but the prose was rich and, at times, even poetic in its descriptions. This book was extremely well edited and crafted at all levels, and it’s obvious the author spent a pain-staking amount of time researching the time-period. The effort paid off in spades because from the first page, this book draws you into its detail-laden world.
Set in the fictional country of Caracalla, The Fires of Treason focuses on Princess Elizabeth, a spitfire with a stubborn, selfish streak but a heart of gold and the deepest, most touching level of loyalty for her big brother, and said big brother, Prince Gregory, who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders and desperately tries to be a man of honor and righteousness but often doesn’t believe he is. When circumstances force the siblings into exile, they are faced with intense challenges both internal and external, and it forces them into incredibly well though-out journeys of self-discovery.
For me, it was the relationship between these two characters that kept me turning pages. As someone with an older brother I idolized, I can attest to the realness of Elizabeth’s adoration of Greg and his over-protectiveness of her – how hard it is when dynamics shift in a relationship you’ve had your whole life. Quirke does an outstanding job showing the depth of their bond while leaving room for standard squabbles, irritations, and misunderstandings. There were moments between Elizabeth and Greg that truly touched my heart and others that made me grin in amusement. The balance was perfect.
A story of moral and physical struggles, loyalty, and familial love, I highly recommend The Fires of Treason to anyone looking for a historical fiction full of both intense action and emotional depth.
Set in the fictional country of Caracalla, The Fires of Treason focuses on Princess Elizabeth, a spitfire with a stubborn, selfish streak but a heart of gold and the deepest, most touching level of loyalty for her big brother, and said big brother, Prince Gregory, who carries the weight of the world on his shoulders and desperately tries to be a man of honor and righteousness but often doesn’t believe he is. When circumstances force the siblings into exile, they are faced with intense challenges both internal and external, and it forces them into incredibly well though-out journeys of self-discovery.
For me, it was the relationship between these two characters that kept me turning pages. As someone with an older brother I idolized, I can attest to the realness of Elizabeth’s adoration of Greg and his over-protectiveness of her – how hard it is when dynamics shift in a relationship you’ve had your whole life. Quirke does an outstanding job showing the depth of their bond while leaving room for standard squabbles, irritations, and misunderstandings. There were moments between Elizabeth and Greg that truly touched my heart and others that made me grin in amusement. The balance was perfect.
A story of moral and physical struggles, loyalty, and familial love, I highly recommend The Fires of Treason to anyone looking for a historical fiction full of both intense action and emotional depth.
May 14, 2021
Michele Quirke opens "The Fires of Treason" with the drums of war and a prelude of what is to come. Her characters are believable and authentic, and from the earliest pages, they are flawed. This is not a story of fantastical heroes. Rather, "The Fires of Treason" is a historical fiction in all its messy humanity.
The primary characters Elizabeth and Gregory are wonderfully written. There are times when I stared at the page in disbelief. I disagreed with their actions. I gasped in hospital waiting rooms as the plot unfolded. I cheered in parking lots as I read reunions. Throughout my read, I always wanted to turn the page. I wanted answers.
Few novels have such an effect on me. I mostly read fantasy where the heroes are expected to win and their humanity takes a backseat to their champion statuses. Here, I only fully appreciated Michele's writing when I finished her book and realized I felt hopeful because I knew a second book would be written and this amazing story would continue.
As you read "The Fires of Treason," you may not agree with every decision the characters make. You might wonder at the reasoning for events to unfold as they do. This is a story worth reading, worth finishing, and worth reflecting on. There is an honest appraisal of morality within these pages, and that realization made me love Michele's story all the more.
I recommend "The Fires of Treason" to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, morality tales, and stories of new beginnings.
The primary characters Elizabeth and Gregory are wonderfully written. There are times when I stared at the page in disbelief. I disagreed with their actions. I gasped in hospital waiting rooms as the plot unfolded. I cheered in parking lots as I read reunions. Throughout my read, I always wanted to turn the page. I wanted answers.
Few novels have such an effect on me. I mostly read fantasy where the heroes are expected to win and their humanity takes a backseat to their champion statuses. Here, I only fully appreciated Michele's writing when I finished her book and realized I felt hopeful because I knew a second book would be written and this amazing story would continue.
As you read "The Fires of Treason," you may not agree with every decision the characters make. You might wonder at the reasoning for events to unfold as they do. This is a story worth reading, worth finishing, and worth reflecting on. There is an honest appraisal of morality within these pages, and that realization made me love Michele's story all the more.
I recommend "The Fires of Treason" to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, morality tales, and stories of new beginnings.
May 14, 2023
I really loved reading this book. I'd been dying to try it since finding out about it on Twitter but when I finally got a copy it was even better than I'd expected.
Beginning with the aftermath of an attempted rebellion and one of the worst welcome home parties any fictional protagonist ever received, it pulls you in straight away with vivid characters and political intrigue. I found one of the two lead characters instantly likeable, while the other was harder to get to know due to a more complex personality. It made for an interesting journey trying to figure that character out
The blend of history and fantasy works really well. Since the lead characters are royal family members with little experience of life beyond their palace (Elizabeth especially) it sometimes feels as if they're discovering the world of Caracalla as much as you are, and seeing their reactions to new experiences is a lot of fun.
The heart of the story-- the bond Gregory and Elizabeth share-- is brilliantly crafted. The difficulties that test their relationship and the dialogue between the spirited Elizabeth and sterner Greg kept me hooked. But all of the other characters who appear are incredibly well written too. I absolutely loved the villains of the book and wish they'd had more scenes. Fires Of Treason is a fabulous read I 100% recommend
Beginning with the aftermath of an attempted rebellion and one of the worst welcome home parties any fictional protagonist ever received, it pulls you in straight away with vivid characters and political intrigue. I found one of the two lead characters instantly likeable, while the other was harder to get to know due to a more complex personality. It made for an interesting journey trying to figure that character out
The blend of history and fantasy works really well. Since the lead characters are royal family members with little experience of life beyond their palace (Elizabeth especially) it sometimes feels as if they're discovering the world of Caracalla as much as you are, and seeing their reactions to new experiences is a lot of fun.
The heart of the story-- the bond Gregory and Elizabeth share-- is brilliantly crafted. The difficulties that test their relationship and the dialogue between the spirited Elizabeth and sterner Greg kept me hooked. But all of the other characters who appear are incredibly well written too. I absolutely loved the villains of the book and wish they'd had more scenes. Fires Of Treason is a fabulous read I 100% recommend
March 5, 2022
There's no prophecy, no forbidden romance, no princess kidnapping, yet these elements that drive conflict through most historical fiction seem unneeded. This story focuses on a sibling relationship, which is something severely underappreciated in most stories of any genre. It is refreshing for that reason alone.
It is not a high-paced story. Not one that will have you foaming at the mouth to devour each and every page as if some drug; however, the characters are enduring and you want good things for them. You cheer and worry for them through their struggles. They have a lot of growing up to do though as the path they have chosen will be hard.
It is easy to become immersed in the world as a well-written descriptive piece. I feel that a lot of research went into understanding the era and it definitely has paid off. It felt authentic and I believe in any historical piece, especially in fiction, that is truly hard to achieve.
As the second of the series has been announced, I can gladly say, I very much look forward to reading it.
It is not a high-paced story. Not one that will have you foaming at the mouth to devour each and every page as if some drug; however, the characters are enduring and you want good things for them. You cheer and worry for them through their struggles. They have a lot of growing up to do though as the path they have chosen will be hard.
It is easy to become immersed in the world as a well-written descriptive piece. I feel that a lot of research went into understanding the era and it definitely has paid off. It felt authentic and I believe in any historical piece, especially in fiction, that is truly hard to achieve.
As the second of the series has been announced, I can gladly say, I very much look forward to reading it.
April 26, 2022
Michele Quirke unloads on us with a dysfunctional and vicious royal family from a mythical land in Europe during the 16th century.
In this story, a brother and sister somehow manage to survive their upbringing by a brutal father and equally vindictive older sister.
However, after returning home victorious in putting down a rebellion, Prince Gregory, the heir apparent, is banished for having executed only the leaders and not having slaughtered all the rebels.
His youngest sister Elizabeth discovers that her father has a reversal of heart and grants permission for Gregory to be hunted and killed. She, in turn, goes in search of her brother to warn him.
What ensues is object lessons for both about what it means to be on the run after an assassin wounds Gregory and as he rejects his birthright.
This first book introduces us to the lives of the main characters before and after with only a suggestion of what the future may hold for them. There are complicated decisions for the argumentative pair to make as they try to stay one step ahead of their royal relations and the hangman's noose.
In this story, a brother and sister somehow manage to survive their upbringing by a brutal father and equally vindictive older sister.
However, after returning home victorious in putting down a rebellion, Prince Gregory, the heir apparent, is banished for having executed only the leaders and not having slaughtered all the rebels.
His youngest sister Elizabeth discovers that her father has a reversal of heart and grants permission for Gregory to be hunted and killed. She, in turn, goes in search of her brother to warn him.
What ensues is object lessons for both about what it means to be on the run after an assassin wounds Gregory and as he rejects his birthright.
This first book introduces us to the lives of the main characters before and after with only a suggestion of what the future may hold for them. There are complicated decisions for the argumentative pair to make as they try to stay one step ahead of their royal relations and the hangman's noose.
December 13, 2021
The kind of book you think about when you have to put it down. I couldn’t stop day dreaming about The Fires of Treason. Quirke has a talent for dialogue and combines the perfect amount of description!
The pacing of this novel was perfect as we move further into exile with Prince Greg and Elizabeth. Quirke weaves together details so beautifully that every character we meet along the way feels like a neighbour. Following her brother Greg, Elizabeth’s faith and loyalty really drove this novel. Through their honest banter you really get a sense of authentic love between the two siblings. I am so amazed by how well this was captured. I don’t think I’ve read a novel where the sibling duo takes the front stage and I absolutely loved everything about it! With details from their past, we don’t forget their trauma. And through hard work and conversation, the siblings have real communication that expresses understanding and pain and forgiveness.
I will definitely be picking up Embers of Fate! I am hoping for a rebellion … no pressure, Greg.
The pacing of this novel was perfect as we move further into exile with Prince Greg and Elizabeth. Quirke weaves together details so beautifully that every character we meet along the way feels like a neighbour. Following her brother Greg, Elizabeth’s faith and loyalty really drove this novel. Through their honest banter you really get a sense of authentic love between the two siblings. I am so amazed by how well this was captured. I don’t think I’ve read a novel where the sibling duo takes the front stage and I absolutely loved everything about it! With details from their past, we don’t forget their trauma. And through hard work and conversation, the siblings have real communication that expresses understanding and pain and forgiveness.
I will definitely be picking up Embers of Fate! I am hoping for a rebellion … no pressure, Greg.
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