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The Weapon of Fire and Ash #1
The Mark of Fallen Flame
Emma Duvall starts senior year with one thing in mind: make Seattle, home.
All her life her mother lived with one foot out the door, but no more. That is, until Emma discovers she has the power to turn terrifying creatures of the night to ash with a single touch. That one moment unveils a hidden world of supernatural beings, both good and bad.
Suddenly her best friend is acting strange, the new guy that's mysteriously in every one of her classes is too beautiful to be human, and an ancient, powerful being is stalking her.
To top it off, the "good guys", the Giborim, aren't convinced that Emma can be trusted. But their unofficial leader, Blaze, becomes her unwilling protector--and perhaps something more--setting fire to millennia of hard-set prejudices.
Especially when her newfound power awakens a deep and dark hunger that can only be sated with death.
All her life her mother lived with one foot out the door, but no more. That is, until Emma discovers she has the power to turn terrifying creatures of the night to ash with a single touch. That one moment unveils a hidden world of supernatural beings, both good and bad.
Suddenly her best friend is acting strange, the new guy that's mysteriously in every one of her classes is too beautiful to be human, and an ancient, powerful being is stalking her.
To top it off, the "good guys", the Giborim, aren't convinced that Emma can be trusted. But their unofficial leader, Blaze, becomes her unwilling protector--and perhaps something more--setting fire to millennia of hard-set prejudices.
Especially when her newfound power awakens a deep and dark hunger that can only be sated with death.
374 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2020
61 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 8, 2019
This is my non-spoiler review, but there is a review with spoilers down below this one.
I thought this book was really good. I liked how even though this was a fantasy book, the characters still felt real and human. The world that the author created was so cool and interesting, but I wish that there were more descriptions and information about it. There is so much action packed into this book! It was hard for me to stop reading because it was so intense! Overall, I give this book a 90/100, just because I wish there were more descriptions and information about the paranormal world.
***SPOILERS***
I loved how strong and brave and courageous Emma was throughout this book, but I wish there were more strong female characters besides just Emma and her mother. For some reason, I didn’t really like Adriana. Her character seemed distant and I didn’t feel like I got to know her very well like I did with the other characters. The twist about who Rowek was didn’t surprise me. I kind of knew that it was him from the very first chapter that he appeared in. I was a little disappointed in Emma’s reaction when she found out who he was because she didn’t seem that surprised either. There are also a few things that I’m still confused about.
1. I’m still not really sure who Sara is?
2. Who were the messages from that were sent to Emma’s mother in the beginning of the book?
3. What was the liquid that was in the vials that Emma’s mom had?
4. Where was Rowek when Emma was attacked by the weird creatures in the water?
5. What was the point in all the bombings that happened throughout the book?
I hope this review doesn’t sound negative, because I honestly thought this book was awesome. I loved the characters and the world, even though there wasn’t a lot of detailing on it. I loved how even though there was a lot of fantastical elements to this story, there were also parts that were relatable and real. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I thought this book was really good. I liked how even though this was a fantasy book, the characters still felt real and human. The world that the author created was so cool and interesting, but I wish that there were more descriptions and information about it. There is so much action packed into this book! It was hard for me to stop reading because it was so intense! Overall, I give this book a 90/100, just because I wish there were more descriptions and information about the paranormal world.
***SPOILERS***
I loved how strong and brave and courageous Emma was throughout this book, but I wish there were more strong female characters besides just Emma and her mother. For some reason, I didn’t really like Adriana. Her character seemed distant and I didn’t feel like I got to know her very well like I did with the other characters. The twist about who Rowek was didn’t surprise me. I kind of knew that it was him from the very first chapter that he appeared in. I was a little disappointed in Emma’s reaction when she found out who he was because she didn’t seem that surprised either. There are also a few things that I’m still confused about.
1. I’m still not really sure who Sara is?
2. Who were the messages from that were sent to Emma’s mother in the beginning of the book?
3. What was the liquid that was in the vials that Emma’s mom had?
4. Where was Rowek when Emma was attacked by the weird creatures in the water?
5. What was the point in all the bombings that happened throughout the book?
I hope this review doesn’t sound negative, because I honestly thought this book was awesome. I loved the characters and the world, even though there wasn’t a lot of detailing on it. I loved how even though there was a lot of fantastical elements to this story, there were also parts that were relatable and real. I can’t wait to read the next book!
June 4, 2020
The Mark of Fallen Flame, the first book in The Weapon of Fire and Ash series, is an interesting supernatural coming-of-age story. Emma, the protagonist, is a soon-to-be eighteen-year-old who is just coming into her power. During a frightening, near-death experience, Emma learns that she can kill some supernatural beings with just a touch, which begins her journey into a whole new terrifying world of demons, spellcasters, and Giborims.
When Emma meets a hunky new student named Rowek, he seems to have some supernatural power of his own. However, it is clear that Rowen has secrets. Can Emma truly trust Rowek when he always disappears at the worst moments?
On top of all that, Emma is being hunted by an ancient and evil supernatural being. The Giborim, an immortal race of protectors, don’t trust her but often comes to her aid. Emma can’t deny her growing feelings for Blaze, their leader. Emma also learns that the violence and kidnappings in the news and her state stem from an ancient supernatural battle for power.
Who should Emma trust? Who can she believe? Emma must learn more about her past and her powers before she can figure out her future.
This is an action-packed story with cool supernatural elements and interesting characters. Bombings, kidnappings, and creepy stalking permeate the story. From the first chapter, Emma is thrust into this dangerous world and must figure out her place in it.
The world is complex with centuries-old battles between good and evil which include many morally grey characters and situations. I find it thought-provoking that you never quite know who is really “good” and who is “bad.” This moral ambiguity added complexity to the characters and story-line while it propelled the plot.
In addition to the supernatural happenings, many realistic themes are explored, including the thrill of first love, the complexities of friendship, the importance of loyalty, and finding oneself. I like how the author intertwines such relatable and realistic elements into her urban fantasy. The most relatable element of the story is Emma.
Emma is strong and smart. A resilient, compassionate, and selfless person, she tries to learn more about her role in the supernatural world without risking others. She even hides her new powers, and all of the supernatural conflicts she goes through, from her overprotective mother. However, she is also a typical teenager who sneaks out to meet a cute boy and loves to shop with her best friend. And, though Emma occasionally acts without thinking, she trusts her instincts, which usually guide her in the right direction. She is complex, and I love the message her character projects about dynamic women of depth.
Thanks so much to the author for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
https://onebookmore.com/2020/06/04/re...
When Emma meets a hunky new student named Rowek, he seems to have some supernatural power of his own. However, it is clear that Rowen has secrets. Can Emma truly trust Rowek when he always disappears at the worst moments?
On top of all that, Emma is being hunted by an ancient and evil supernatural being. The Giborim, an immortal race of protectors, don’t trust her but often comes to her aid. Emma can’t deny her growing feelings for Blaze, their leader. Emma also learns that the violence and kidnappings in the news and her state stem from an ancient supernatural battle for power.
Who should Emma trust? Who can she believe? Emma must learn more about her past and her powers before she can figure out her future.
This is an action-packed story with cool supernatural elements and interesting characters. Bombings, kidnappings, and creepy stalking permeate the story. From the first chapter, Emma is thrust into this dangerous world and must figure out her place in it.
The world is complex with centuries-old battles between good and evil which include many morally grey characters and situations. I find it thought-provoking that you never quite know who is really “good” and who is “bad.” This moral ambiguity added complexity to the characters and story-line while it propelled the plot.
In addition to the supernatural happenings, many realistic themes are explored, including the thrill of first love, the complexities of friendship, the importance of loyalty, and finding oneself. I like how the author intertwines such relatable and realistic elements into her urban fantasy. The most relatable element of the story is Emma.
Emma is strong and smart. A resilient, compassionate, and selfless person, she tries to learn more about her role in the supernatural world without risking others. She even hides her new powers, and all of the supernatural conflicts she goes through, from her overprotective mother. However, she is also a typical teenager who sneaks out to meet a cute boy and loves to shop with her best friend. And, though Emma occasionally acts without thinking, she trusts her instincts, which usually guide her in the right direction. She is complex, and I love the message her character projects about dynamic women of depth.
Thanks so much to the author for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
https://onebookmore.com/2020/06/04/re...
January 7, 2020
What a delicious love triangle.
Seriously, I can’t pick which male I like best which says a lot about Matsen’s characters.
I was pinned to my kindle the last 25% of the book and needto know what’ll happen to Emma and the gang.
Seriously, I can’t pick which male I like best which says a lot about Matsen’s characters.
I was pinned to my kindle the last 25% of the book and needto know what’ll happen to Emma and the gang.
June 24, 2019
Loved it!
March 12, 2019
Okay let’s start off by saying I finished this book within 24hrs that’s how bloody fantastic it is!
This story was so well written it threw me into a fantasy filled world full of sexy demon slayers, possessive demons who craved to take control and fierce women who can conquer the world.
The story line was very easy to follow and sucks you in from the get go. It has supernatural creatures, hunky men, warrior women, lots of violence and romance. A book made for Dark Fantasy lovers ;)
Well done author, I enjoyed myself and can’t wait for future projects from you! Definitely would recommend to anyone that would want to loose themselves in another world of magic ❤️
This story was so well written it threw me into a fantasy filled world full of sexy demon slayers, possessive demons who craved to take control and fierce women who can conquer the world.
The story line was very easy to follow and sucks you in from the get go. It has supernatural creatures, hunky men, warrior women, lots of violence and romance. A book made for Dark Fantasy lovers ;)
Well done author, I enjoyed myself and can’t wait for future projects from you! Definitely would recommend to anyone that would want to loose themselves in another world of magic ❤️
July 22, 2019
This book was amazing!! Reminded me a bit of Jennifer Armentrouts “White hot kiss” which I loved as well!! It has everything I typically look for in a book—magic, romance, action, etc. would definitely recommend!
June 9, 2019
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great debut novel that I enjoyed. The story was well done and unique. I love a story with fallen angels and demons. No one is ever all good or all bad and I think that is something Emma will find out as the series progresses. I still want to learn more about the different species that Emma has to deal with. I feel like there is more to both that we haven't gotten a chance to see yet. Emma could be stubborn and she did not listen a lot. She acted like a teenager which she was so I have to forgive her for the things she did and running headlong into so many situations. I liked Emma though because she was also compassionate, loyal, and a sweetheart. I do not know how I feel about Levorath yet but I liked Blaze a lot. I really cannot wait to see what happens next in this series!
This was a great debut novel that I enjoyed. The story was well done and unique. I love a story with fallen angels and demons. No one is ever all good or all bad and I think that is something Emma will find out as the series progresses. I still want to learn more about the different species that Emma has to deal with. I feel like there is more to both that we haven't gotten a chance to see yet. Emma could be stubborn and she did not listen a lot. She acted like a teenager which she was so I have to forgive her for the things she did and running headlong into so many situations. I liked Emma though because she was also compassionate, loyal, and a sweetheart. I do not know how I feel about Levorath yet but I liked Blaze a lot. I really cannot wait to see what happens next in this series!
May 13, 2019
This was a powerful fantasy driven narrative that did a marvelous job of creating a new mythology that readers will instantly be enthralled by. Powerful and creepy creatures blended perfectly with relatable and interesting characters to drive the novel forward at a reasonable pace.
The thing I love about this book besides the unique mythology created by the author was how the book didn’t waste anytime jumping into the action of the plot. From the first 20 pages or so the author takes readers head first into this fantasy and partly horror driven narrative and doesn’t hold any punches, establishing the dangers and the stakes early on.
The thing I love about this book besides the unique mythology created by the author was how the book didn’t waste anytime jumping into the action of the plot. From the first 20 pages or so the author takes readers head first into this fantasy and partly horror driven narrative and doesn’t hold any punches, establishing the dangers and the stakes early on.
August 27, 2020
**I read this book for the No Shelf Control book box readalong.**
This is only a really slap dash review cause it’s midnight and I’m totally rekt right now lol.
I really enjoyed this one - it was always entertaining and intriguing. I didn’t actually see the major plot twist coming at all! I was kept guessing throughout the story and am still guessing upon the conclusion about what will happen in the next book! There was a lot going on but it was never once confusing or dull. Loads of sexy and broody characters as well!
I really loved the concept of the story and was impressed with the writing, definitely keep on the look out for this authors future works!
This is only a really slap dash review cause it’s midnight and I’m totally rekt right now lol.
I really enjoyed this one - it was always entertaining and intriguing. I didn’t actually see the major plot twist coming at all! I was kept guessing throughout the story and am still guessing upon the conclusion about what will happen in the next book! There was a lot going on but it was never once confusing or dull. Loads of sexy and broody characters as well!
I really loved the concept of the story and was impressed with the writing, definitely keep on the look out for this authors future works!
September 24, 2020
This was a really interesting read! I loved the world and I found Emma a fascinating character! The only downside to me was wanting extra information on some characters or why things happened but that may come through in the next book!
June 1, 2019
The Mark of Fallen Flame by Brittany Matsen is a fantasy/sci-fi novel based with two main perspectives. One is from a girl named Emma, she has an encounter one night with her best friend and the power she felt that night had to be something special. Levaroth is a demon or a type of Shediem. After hearing of that night about a girl who turned people into dust, he knew he had to get to her. Emma and Levaroth meet in unexpected instances. Levaroth wants to serve his “boss” as loyally as he can, but not when other people get in the way. Emma is trying to find out who she is and what her mother is hiding. She learns more along with a guy who is always looking out for her and who even might become a love interest.
*RECEIVED AN ARC COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW*
I give this book 4 stars. Considering that this is the author’s debut novel, I’d say it’s pretty damn good. Sci-fi/Fantasy novels are not my cup of tea. I do not read them because I like the real stuff like romance, contemporary, or mental health-related. I have read a few that have turned out to be really good and that I kept on my shelf. This would probably be a book I would keep on my shelf. I wanted to challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone, but not too much, so I thought this would be a perfect choice.
I was so right on that choice.
The action in the book was perfectly timed. The author made sure the reader knew what was going on in every scene and sometimes even recapped previous instances which kept it fresh in my mind while reading it. Some that did annoy me was the characters. There was so many to keep up with and I couldn’t really do that. I like a simple group or at least characters that will be pictured in the story later on. I do wish that the Levaroth parts/perpective was more detailed and showed more emotions.
My favorite character is Adrianna. I think the people that I relate to the most are my favorites. I really thought in the beginning she was the bad guy, even though it says there upfront that Levaroth is after Emma. I was a little disappointed she wasn’t in the ending so much. There is a lot to be asked about her. Like why was she getting headaches? And why was she so important to Sara?
This book reminded me a lot of Toward a Secret Sky by Heather Maclean. That is a book that I never thought I would like, but it was one of my favorite reads last year.
It was a slow start. I found myself getting bored or uninterested. I hate to start a book and not finish it sooo I’m glad I did!!
I would recommend this book and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
*RECEIVED AN ARC COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW*
I give this book 4 stars. Considering that this is the author’s debut novel, I’d say it’s pretty damn good. Sci-fi/Fantasy novels are not my cup of tea. I do not read them because I like the real stuff like romance, contemporary, or mental health-related. I have read a few that have turned out to be really good and that I kept on my shelf. This would probably be a book I would keep on my shelf. I wanted to challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone, but not too much, so I thought this would be a perfect choice.
I was so right on that choice.
The action in the book was perfectly timed. The author made sure the reader knew what was going on in every scene and sometimes even recapped previous instances which kept it fresh in my mind while reading it. Some that did annoy me was the characters. There was so many to keep up with and I couldn’t really do that. I like a simple group or at least characters that will be pictured in the story later on. I do wish that the Levaroth parts/perpective was more detailed and showed more emotions.
My favorite character is Adrianna. I think the people that I relate to the most are my favorites. I really thought in the beginning she was the bad guy, even though it says there upfront that Levaroth is after Emma. I was a little disappointed she wasn’t in the ending so much. There is a lot to be asked about her. Like why was she getting headaches? And why was she so important to Sara?
This book reminded me a lot of Toward a Secret Sky by Heather Maclean. That is a book that I never thought I would like, but it was one of my favorite reads last year.
It was a slow start. I found myself getting bored or uninterested. I hate to start a book and not finish it sooo I’m glad I did!!
I would recommend this book and I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
May 3, 2019
This book was a nice surprise and I really enjoyed it. It was definitely a page-turner and full of excitement, suspense, drama, and the stirrings of young love. The story focuses on Emma and her journey to discovery; to understand her past, her powers and learn who she truly was as well as what she could do. There had always been an air of caution and urgency around her life as her mother frequently shuffled them from place to place at a last minutes notice, her mother always keeping her close, never giving her too much freedom. When war started raging in their city causing catastrophic devastation, crazy things started happening, including unholy creatures that should not exist, a boy with golden glowing eyes that called to a darkness hidden deep inside her, muscle-clad warriors who were chiseled works of art, one whom she was especially drawn to, and a swelling power awakening from inside her. Emma’s world comes crashing down around her as her reality blends with fantasy and creatures from books and myths appear. She is thrust into a new world she does not understand and caught in the middle of two vying powers both wanting her for their own agenda. To make matters worse, the more she learns, the more questions she has, as well as the realization that her mother is in the middle of it all. Her life was built on lies and secrets and her mother is the key and holds all the answers but she is unwilling to share. As events worsen and things start spiraling more out of control, Emma has to fight the rising darkness and decide where she belongs and to what extent she is willing to sacrifice to save those she loves.
This was an engaging story from start to finish with likable characters and a well-written storyline that will hold your interest. I look forward to reading more in this series.
*I received an advanced copy from the author and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
This was an engaging story from start to finish with likable characters and a well-written storyline that will hold your interest. I look forward to reading more in this series.
*I received an advanced copy from the author and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
June 4, 2019
*** I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.***
***SPOILER ALERT***
You will meet 17 year old Emma Duvall who wants to be a normal teenager. As you read you learn that it is just her and her mother who happen to moves around a lot. Her Mother Laura is hiding a big secret from her daughter Emma. In the meantime Emma and her friend Addrienne are starting their senior year in high school. Emma start getting these strange feelings when something is around her and does not know why. She also encounters demons and finds out that they really do exist amongst other things. She also meets a really good looking guy name Rowek/Levorath (which when you read about these two, it will confuse you but will clear it all up at the end of the book) who wants to find out who/what Emma is and wants her to himself and tries to protect her. Then she meets Blaze, another good looking guy who knows about her but not her background but also protects her. There is so much turmoil that Emma goes through that you feel bad for her to a certain point because she was given plenty of chances to ask questions but didn't and seem to not think about but would get upset about her identity if anyone tries to ask her. However everything starts to happens towards the end of the book and then everything is cleared up except for one question. Is she is going to follow the Mark of the Fallen Flame or is she going with the good guys. Are the good guys really good. There is mention that they are not in several instances but I will never know unless I read the next book. So overall this book did keep me reading til the end because you just need to know what happens after the fall out. It does leave in a cliffhanger so if you are the type the needs to read the next book you may want to wait.
***SPOILER ALERT***
You will meet 17 year old Emma Duvall who wants to be a normal teenager. As you read you learn that it is just her and her mother who happen to moves around a lot. Her Mother Laura is hiding a big secret from her daughter Emma. In the meantime Emma and her friend Addrienne are starting their senior year in high school. Emma start getting these strange feelings when something is around her and does not know why. She also encounters demons and finds out that they really do exist amongst other things. She also meets a really good looking guy name Rowek/Levorath (which when you read about these two, it will confuse you but will clear it all up at the end of the book) who wants to find out who/what Emma is and wants her to himself and tries to protect her. Then she meets Blaze, another good looking guy who knows about her but not her background but also protects her. There is so much turmoil that Emma goes through that you feel bad for her to a certain point because she was given plenty of chances to ask questions but didn't and seem to not think about but would get upset about her identity if anyone tries to ask her. However everything starts to happens towards the end of the book and then everything is cleared up except for one question. Is she is going to follow the Mark of the Fallen Flame or is she going with the good guys. Are the good guys really good. There is mention that they are not in several instances but I will never know unless I read the next book. So overall this book did keep me reading til the end because you just need to know what happens after the fall out. It does leave in a cliffhanger so if you are the type the needs to read the next book you may want to wait.
June 25, 2019
I don’t read as much YA fantasy as I use to, and honestly, I miss it. When I was given the chance to read The Mark of Fallen Flame, I jumped at the opportunity to fall into a whole new fantasy world, and Matsen did not disappoint. The fantasy world created in this book was well developed and thought out, and set the story up with a rich backdrop of mystery that kept the reader intrigued and interested.
Emma is a senior in highschool, and is hoping to avoid moving again with her mother, and desperately wants to create a stable life for herself. After years of moving on the fly, and never feeling truly settled, she’s craving a life with a little more structure. However, after her and her best friend are attacked by weird, spider like creatures in a dark alley one night, Emma’s life becomes anything but normal. She’s plunged into a world of secrets and monsters, all well discovering her long buried powers. As Emma learns more about these powers, she’s pulled into a war between good and evil. Choices must be made, all while navigating your tumultuous teen years.
The Mark of Fallen Flame has everything that I love in a good book. A strong female lead, Emma is one of my new favorite characters. I cannot wait to see how she grows in feature books, and I’m so excited to see how Matsen continues to develop her into a strong female lead. And then there is the villain, Levaroth. He’s so conflicted, and incredibility well developed. His is a storyline that I am most excited to follow.
Honestly, I was shocked by how much I enjoyed The Mark of Fallen Flame, and I cannot wait for more of this story!
Emma is a senior in highschool, and is hoping to avoid moving again with her mother, and desperately wants to create a stable life for herself. After years of moving on the fly, and never feeling truly settled, she’s craving a life with a little more structure. However, after her and her best friend are attacked by weird, spider like creatures in a dark alley one night, Emma’s life becomes anything but normal. She’s plunged into a world of secrets and monsters, all well discovering her long buried powers. As Emma learns more about these powers, she’s pulled into a war between good and evil. Choices must be made, all while navigating your tumultuous teen years.
The Mark of Fallen Flame has everything that I love in a good book. A strong female lead, Emma is one of my new favorite characters. I cannot wait to see how she grows in feature books, and I’m so excited to see how Matsen continues to develop her into a strong female lead. And then there is the villain, Levaroth. He’s so conflicted, and incredibility well developed. His is a storyline that I am most excited to follow.
Honestly, I was shocked by how much I enjoyed The Mark of Fallen Flame, and I cannot wait for more of this story!
May 25, 2019
This is a YA fantasy with a rich world and loads of mystery that kept me turning the page to find out more, right through to the very end. Brittany Matsen has done a marvellous job building an elaborate world and crafting a tale of a strong-female lead, Emma, to discover who she is and where she comes from. Fans who love darker fantasy stories that are balanced with lightness and sweetness will love this one.
This is the first book in the series of Weapon of Fire and Ash.
While Emma's mother is very protective of her only child, Emma is growing up. A night out for Emma with her friend spins her world upside down when she is attacked by supernatural forces which brings Emma's own deeply buried powers to the fore. As Emma explores her strange and deadly powers she's brought into a secret world with a war between good and evil, and each of them have their own secret agenda and desire to have her fight for their cause. And as conflicting as that is, Emma also has her own heritage to discover, and two very different love interests Blaze and Rowek, a spell-caster to decide between.
For me out of all the characters, Levaroth stole my heart. I'm a sucker for conflicted antiheroes and Levaroth completely satisfied my love list when it comes to bad guys. He is such a fully developed character and I want more of him.
This was a wonderful beginning to the series. The Mark of the Fallen Flame is full of mystery, romance and magic, two warring forces and a world to save, and I can't wait to read more from Brittany Matsen.
This is the first book in the series of Weapon of Fire and Ash.
While Emma's mother is very protective of her only child, Emma is growing up. A night out for Emma with her friend spins her world upside down when she is attacked by supernatural forces which brings Emma's own deeply buried powers to the fore. As Emma explores her strange and deadly powers she's brought into a secret world with a war between good and evil, and each of them have their own secret agenda and desire to have her fight for their cause. And as conflicting as that is, Emma also has her own heritage to discover, and two very different love interests Blaze and Rowek, a spell-caster to decide between.
For me out of all the characters, Levaroth stole my heart. I'm a sucker for conflicted antiheroes and Levaroth completely satisfied my love list when it comes to bad guys. He is such a fully developed character and I want more of him.
This was a wonderful beginning to the series. The Mark of the Fallen Flame is full of mystery, romance and magic, two warring forces and a world to save, and I can't wait to read more from Brittany Matsen.
May 3, 2020
I really enjoyed The Mark of Fallen Flame! Emma is a great character. She is in some ways a typical high school student, 17 years old, starting senior year and worried about things like where to go to college and who will take her to the homecoming dance. At other times she is a mix between Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Harry Potter, coming into her own magical kick a$$ abilities with limited knowledge of the “other world”. Then we have the two guys in her life, Rowek and Blaze. I thoroughly enjoyed the love triangle aspect of this story. Who the good guy is and who the bad guy is isn’t immediately apparent, even after reading the entire story. I can’t wait to see what happens next with the three of them.
There are other secondary characters I would love to know more about, particularly Adrianna and Sara. I’m very excited to see that there is a book 1.5, The Spellcaster’s Weapon, which seems to focus on those two. I’ll definitely be checking that book out!
February 6, 2019
So I will try to contain my excitement and get through this review without any spoilers.
I was privileged to be one of the first to read this book and I was so glad that it is book 1 of 3. I am a huge fan of YA fiction and here is the short and sweet, one-sentence, review first:
In a genre which is bloated in both the high-fantasy and dystopian realm, 'The Mark of Fallen Flame' stands alone with a perfect mix of fantasy and real world.
I love faerie fiction, and the against-all-odds struggles against the man... But this story is a beautiful tapestry woven with complex characters, who make you feel real feelings. Characters you can relate to, they could be a sister, or a brother, or a father, or a mother.
The fact that it takes place in the here-and-now doesn't take away from the fantasy aspect, in-fact, it enhances it. It feels original, I don't feel like any part of it is a rehash of some other story.
I look forward to devouring the rest of the series and reading more from this up and coming author.
I was privileged to be one of the first to read this book and I was so glad that it is book 1 of 3. I am a huge fan of YA fiction and here is the short and sweet, one-sentence, review first:
In a genre which is bloated in both the high-fantasy and dystopian realm, 'The Mark of Fallen Flame' stands alone with a perfect mix of fantasy and real world.
I love faerie fiction, and the against-all-odds struggles against the man... But this story is a beautiful tapestry woven with complex characters, who make you feel real feelings. Characters you can relate to, they could be a sister, or a brother, or a father, or a mother.
The fact that it takes place in the here-and-now doesn't take away from the fantasy aspect, in-fact, it enhances it. It feels original, I don't feel like any part of it is a rehash of some other story.
I look forward to devouring the rest of the series and reading more from this up and coming author.
May 30, 2019
Whoa, super intense read and I absolutely loved it. Be warned that this book has a LOT going on and you need to make sure that you pay attention to everything!
Emma is not an average teenager and her mother has a huge secret that she has not shared with her. Due to this Emma and Laura move around... a lot! Honestly, she is almost 18, it might have been a bit more beneficial to let her know about this but anywho.
This book is a freaking tailspin of craziness and finding out that things are not exactly normal. It also has an interesting portrayal of good vs evil, is anything fully good or fully evil? It makes you think and I freaking love that in a book. I liked the world that Brittany Matsen created here and each page just left me wanting more.
In terms of romance, I get my fix which always makes me happy! It is sweet but it is also pretty intense and I freaking enjoyed everything about it.
I am already addicted to this series and cannot wait for me- 5 outta 5 stars from me!
PS: I received this book for free but am voluntarily and honestly reviewing it!
Emma is not an average teenager and her mother has a huge secret that she has not shared with her. Due to this Emma and Laura move around... a lot! Honestly, she is almost 18, it might have been a bit more beneficial to let her know about this but anywho.
This book is a freaking tailspin of craziness and finding out that things are not exactly normal. It also has an interesting portrayal of good vs evil, is anything fully good or fully evil? It makes you think and I freaking love that in a book. I liked the world that Brittany Matsen created here and each page just left me wanting more.
In terms of romance, I get my fix which always makes me happy! It is sweet but it is also pretty intense and I freaking enjoyed everything about it.
I am already addicted to this series and cannot wait for me- 5 outta 5 stars from me!
PS: I received this book for free but am voluntarily and honestly reviewing it!
June 3, 2019
The Mark of Fallen Flame was a great book. The story grabbed my attention and kept me reading. I like how some of the common tropes of these type of books were thrown on their head with how some of the characters turn out. I had to read the book twice to do the review as I was too engrossed in it the first time around to actually read it critically. I can’t wait to see where this series goes in the future!
The book is a good mix of action and character development. The characters feel like real people and seem to stray from the standard characteristics I've come to expect in this genre.
The mythos draws on ideas similar to mortal instruments. The way that it's woven through the story makes it feel like in form that you already knew these things and are just being reminded of them rather than being thrown into a totally new world with no real point to base things off of.
This book is definitely worth reading and I'm looking forward to the next one!
The book is a good mix of action and character development. The characters feel like real people and seem to stray from the standard characteristics I've come to expect in this genre.
The mythos draws on ideas similar to mortal instruments. The way that it's woven through the story makes it feel like in form that you already knew these things and are just being reminded of them rather than being thrown into a totally new world with no real point to base things off of.
This book is definitely worth reading and I'm looking forward to the next one!
August 12, 2020
Emma Duvall's mom has kept a secret for a long time and it's coming to the surface, whether she likes it or not. As the school year starts up, Emma finds herself bumping into monsters, magic, and weird dudes wherever she goes. She's not so sure what to make of anything but as she meets more characters, you find yourself wavering which way you would go in her shoes.
This book wastes no time building up to the supernatural. The "secret life" her mom hides is a bit trope-y but the story plays out with some new twists and turns that really kept me turning pages. I really enjoyed the character development: even if a few characters changed abruptly along the way but that just reinforced the feeling of not really knowing anyone. In a story of angels and demons, no one is really all good or all bad.
This was a free Kindle book I found on Freebooksy; I'm off to buy the second in the series!
This book wastes no time building up to the supernatural. The "secret life" her mom hides is a bit trope-y but the story plays out with some new twists and turns that really kept me turning pages. I really enjoyed the character development: even if a few characters changed abruptly along the way but that just reinforced the feeling of not really knowing anyone. In a story of angels and demons, no one is really all good or all bad.
This was a free Kindle book I found on Freebooksy; I'm off to buy the second in the series!
April 28, 2019
Emma's life has not been that of your average normal teenager. Emma has moved from place to place by her mother who is hiding a big secret from her.
The action picks up quite early on in the story as Emma begins to discover another world filled with demons. As she attempts to discover how she fits into this new world, she meets a new boy in school who is not what he seems and Blaze thus creating the love triangle (if we can call it that) for this series - FYI I am rooting for Emma and Blaze.
I am also intrigued as to whom was messaging Emma's mother in the beginning of the book.
I really enjoyed the world that has been created by the author, although I would liked a little bit more detail on the paranormal world that exists. I am excited to see what happens with Emma especially considering how things ended with this book.
I received this ARC in exchange for a review.
The action picks up quite early on in the story as Emma begins to discover another world filled with demons. As she attempts to discover how she fits into this new world, she meets a new boy in school who is not what he seems and Blaze thus creating the love triangle (if we can call it that) for this series - FYI I am rooting for Emma and Blaze.
I am also intrigued as to whom was messaging Emma's mother in the beginning of the book.
I really enjoyed the world that has been created by the author, although I would liked a little bit more detail on the paranormal world that exists. I am excited to see what happens with Emma especially considering how things ended with this book.
I received this ARC in exchange for a review.
June 6, 2019
THE MARK OF THE FALLEN FLAME REVIEW
Just a truly magical read! I was hooked from the first chapter. Think City of Bones but without the whole chapter describing a single hallway!
The story is told in multiple POV which I just love. We flick between the MC Emma, Levaroth the demon general and occasionally Emma’s mother Laura.
Emma is prone to getting herself into the worst situations but has a trick up her sleeve... she can absorb the powers of demons! This, as I’m sure you can imagine, comes as quite a shock to our young heroine as she was raised as a normal girl.
Then enters Levaroth... the demon general with a soft side? Unheard of!
There are so many fallen angel/demon stories and they all just end up seeming the same... and then there’s TMOTFF....
Fantastic read and I cannot wait for the next one!
Just a truly magical read! I was hooked from the first chapter. Think City of Bones but without the whole chapter describing a single hallway!
The story is told in multiple POV which I just love. We flick between the MC Emma, Levaroth the demon general and occasionally Emma’s mother Laura.
Emma is prone to getting herself into the worst situations but has a trick up her sleeve... she can absorb the powers of demons! This, as I’m sure you can imagine, comes as quite a shock to our young heroine as she was raised as a normal girl.
Then enters Levaroth... the demon general with a soft side? Unheard of!
There are so many fallen angel/demon stories and they all just end up seeming the same... and then there’s TMOTFF....
Fantastic read and I cannot wait for the next one!
April 8, 2020
OWLs Readathon (aka Magical Readathon) prompt: Herbology - Read a Book starting with M (this was the best pick since I have nothing else starting with M)
Ahh I finished another challenge!
I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced and fun. I really enjoyed the main character and felt the writing really made you feel what she was feeling.
From the beginning I felt like I didn't trust Rowek and I feel like I was kinda proved right? I also got really frustrated with her mother, which sounds terrible.
My only points would be that the world needed a little more exploration, especially more explanation behind certain things. But I don't think that really took away from the story itself.
4/5
Ahh I finished another challenge!
I really enjoyed this book, it was fast paced and fun. I really enjoyed the main character and felt the writing really made you feel what she was feeling.
From the beginning I felt like I didn't trust Rowek and I feel like I was kinda proved right? I also got really frustrated with her mother, which sounds terrible.
My only points would be that the world needed a little more exploration, especially more explanation behind certain things. But I don't think that really took away from the story itself.
4/5
March 25, 2019
I love love loved this book! It has everything I love in a YA book and i found it really original! I always fall for the bad boy and I kind of hope Emma does the same! I'm so sad to finish this book but super excited to find out there's more... can I read them now please?
A story about family, magic and romance, Emma finds out her life isn't what it seems and a reason her mother has been so protective all of her life. One event on a night out with her friend is a catalyst for everything around her to change.
It had a little bit of a twilight feel for me (but without the cringe) in terms of the romance side of things.
I couldn't put this down!!!!!
A story about family, magic and romance, Emma finds out her life isn't what it seems and a reason her mother has been so protective all of her life. One event on a night out with her friend is a catalyst for everything around her to change.
It had a little bit of a twilight feel for me (but without the cringe) in terms of the romance side of things.
I couldn't put this down!!!!!
May 23, 2019
Overall I enjoyed this book, it quickly caught my interest and kept it the whole time. It wasn't at "can't put down" level for me, but anything that keeps me interested throughout is worthwhile. I did get one moment of "make up your mind already.." and then the story moved along.
As a YA it follows the whole good vs evil theme, and following the lead character Emma, a high schooler who moves around a lot, there is of course some romantic tension with both good and evil male characters.
I also feel like it finishes off the book at a good spot, where I am comfortable waiting to see what happens next
As a YA it follows the whole good vs evil theme, and following the lead character Emma, a high schooler who moves around a lot, there is of course some romantic tension with both good and evil male characters.
I also feel like it finishes off the book at a good spot, where I am comfortable waiting to see what happens next
June 15, 2020
I thought this book was really good. This was a wonderful fantasy driven narrative with a new mythology that I was enthralled by; it had powerful and creepy creatures that blend well with relatable and intriguing characters that drives the novel forward at a good pace. I loved that the author didn’t waste anytime jumping into the action of the plot; from the first few chapters the author takes you on a fantastic, partly horror-like narrative and doesn’t pull any punches and establishes the dangers and the stakes the characters face early on.
I received this book as an Advance Reader copy with the hopes I would like it and review it.
I received this book as an Advance Reader copy with the hopes I would like it and review it.
May 22, 2020
In her debut novel, The Mark of Fallen Flame, Matsen expertly weaves a story full of mystery, romance, violence, and some extremely ugly demons. From page one, Matsen will have you desperately trying to solve the many mysteries housed within the novel and asking yourself, "who is the true villain of this story?" This novel is an absolute joy to read, and I feel certain it will earn its place as one of the best novels of the genre. I think we can all expect great things from Matsen as the series progresses.
July 6, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Emma has moved around a lot in secret not knowing why. Now she is faced with a life and death situation and her touch kills the strange creatures attacking them. She is thrown into the world of shidiem and doesn’t know what she is. Her mother has shielded her from the threat all her life hasn’t let Emma know who her Father is. Now she is turning 18 and in for a bumpy ride.
A really good read and of a good length too. The story ends abruptly which leaves me wanting the next in the series.
Emma has moved around a lot in secret not knowing why. Now she is faced with a life and death situation and her touch kills the strange creatures attacking them. She is thrown into the world of shidiem and doesn’t know what she is. Her mother has shielded her from the threat all her life hasn’t let Emma know who her Father is. Now she is turning 18 and in for a bumpy ride.
A really good read and of a good length too. The story ends abruptly which leaves me wanting the next in the series.
March 25, 2019
This is solid YA fantasy: battle between good and evil, good juxtaposition between life as a normal senior in high school and experiences after she discovers her powers, well fleshed out world/ characters and chaste but still sexy. It's a quick read, but maybe a little repetitive (same foes over and over) and a not enough strong female roles. However, overall a very enjoyable and engaging read. I read it in less than a week and it kept me off Instagram. (ARC)
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