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Kingdom Legacy #1
Heir of Amber and Fire
Winner of the 2024 Spring PenCraft Seasonal Book Award for Best Young Adult - Fantasy/ Sci-Fi
They're only huge, scary, fire breathing creatures. Seriously, is that any reason to be afraid of a dragon?
When my father the king announced my upcoming political wedding, it uncovered family secrets I never knew existed and forced me to go on the run. Now I, Princess Jennica of Calia, am not only trying to escape my arranged marriage, but am hoping to figure out the truth of my heritage.
Because my dear father may not be what he seems.
To learn the mysteries of my past, I'll have to team up with a group of ragtag mercenaries. Including a handsome dragon Seeker whose surliness can't stop me from being drawn to him despite myself.
They're taking me to the dragon who once kidnapped my mother, and who hopefully has the answers I seek.
Because I'm running out of time to save my kingdom.
And in order to save my kingdom, I might have to betray my new friends.
Journey to the Gifted Lands, a fantasy world of seven kingdoms, each known for their own unique power or ability. Heir of Amber and Fire is the first book in the Kingdom Legacy series set in this magical world.
They're only huge, scary, fire breathing creatures. Seriously, is that any reason to be afraid of a dragon?
When my father the king announced my upcoming political wedding, it uncovered family secrets I never knew existed and forced me to go on the run. Now I, Princess Jennica of Calia, am not only trying to escape my arranged marriage, but am hoping to figure out the truth of my heritage.
Because my dear father may not be what he seems.
To learn the mysteries of my past, I'll have to team up with a group of ragtag mercenaries. Including a handsome dragon Seeker whose surliness can't stop me from being drawn to him despite myself.
They're taking me to the dragon who once kidnapped my mother, and who hopefully has the answers I seek.
Because I'm running out of time to save my kingdom.
And in order to save my kingdom, I might have to betray my new friends.
Journey to the Gifted Lands, a fantasy world of seven kingdoms, each known for their own unique power or ability. Heir of Amber and Fire is the first book in the Kingdom Legacy series set in this magical world.
- GenresFantasy
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2021
12 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Rachanee Lumayno
41 books25 followersRachanee Lumayno is an actress, voiceover artist, screenwriter, avid gamer and amateur dodgeball player. She grew up in Michigan, where she spent way too much of her free time reading fantasy novels. So when she decided to try her hand at writing a book, it made sense that it would be in her favorite genre.
Be sure to follow Rachanee on BookBub for the latest on sales - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/racha...
Sign up for the newsletter to get info on newest releases, giveaways, and other goodies! - http://www.rachanee.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 23, 2022
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up. I mean what more could you want from a YA fantasy than dragons and a princess who practices sorcery and goes on a quest to save her own kingdom? Full video review on my YouTube channel https://youtu.be/v6Fp6ZYqzcA
June 13, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
August 20, 2022
This fantasy novel from Rachanee Lumayno was such a fun read. Following a princess who practices magic, and her journey on a quest, this had great characters and was a page turning read. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a new fantasy read.
November 14, 2024
Engaging characters, interesting world building, and a tightly plotted narrative makes this a really fun and enjoyable fantasy adventure.
Also, I can’t help but picture Joichan as looking and sounding like Sean Connery.
Also, I can’t help but picture Joichan as looking and sounding like Sean Connery.
October 5, 2024
3.5⭐️ this was a fun first book, and I’ll definitely continue the series. I thought it was written well and enjoyed the plot so far
March 28, 2022
Wow, this was such a fun read. Definitely recommend this to readers who want to dip their toes in the fantasy genre. Easy to follow Poot, likable characters with humor,action and a dash of romance. Highly recommend this to new readers.
June 8, 2023
The idea of the book was interesting and in some aspects it was really good. Except that it seemed more like a story for children than for teenagers. Some things did not make sense and some details were missing, as if some pages were missing. I'm a big fan of dragons, so I enjoyed reading about them. But the main female character seemed to me to be more of the type that doesn't know how to handle different situations than that type of strong protagonist. I mean, yes, she was a princess, and princesses have servants and maids to do some things and they should be educated, nice and intelligent, but she seemed more stupid to me. I was hoping to learn more about her powers, for her to learn more, to use them more often, but she used them only when strictly necessary. Magic in general seemed to be a super easy thing for her, which seems strange, it would have been more realistic and better if she struggled for a few days to get the spell out. the transformation into a dragon, for the first time, was, again, too easy, too sudden, as if she had done it 10 thousand times before. At the first meeting with the dragon, I thought it would be worse, a true dragon in all its nature that attacked, but he behaved as if those who had invaded his cave were family friends. And the whole journey to find it was so simple, without too many complications. Chapters written for nothing, places filled with nothing just to have content and a larger number of words. Again, the idea seemed interesting to me, but I had too high expectations, especially since I love books with dragons. The book is not bad, for someone who likes short books with not much going on and wants something light. But if you expect something more, more complex, more exciting, then this book is not for you.
Update: In fact, you can skip a few chapters because nothing much happens, and the story seemed to lack some details anyway. I know that I go from one extreme to another in general when I write an essay, but I think the book surpassed me
Update: In fact, you can skip a few chapters because nothing much happens, and the story seemed to lack some details anyway. I know that I go from one extreme to another in general when I write an essay, but I think the book surpassed me
March 15, 2022
The stunning cover instantly caught my eye and after reading the synopsis I was eagerly anticipating reading this story, and it did not disappoint!
Lumayno transports us to an enchanting world filled with magic, dragons, fae, shapeshifters and so much more! The world building is crafted in such an intricate and unique way that it pulled me instantly into this captivating and addictive story. Calia is part of the Gifted Lands and is distinguished for its magic, and I loved how each realm has its own unique properties setting it apart from the others. In particular, I thoroughly enjoyed their stop in Annlyn where they meet the charming and alluring Pazho, and how the inhabitants are able to change into their animal forms while being able to appear invisible to any visitors!
It was entertaining to hear of the fairytale background for Calia and how the King saved the Queen from a dragon to win her heart. The kingdom has been in their family for generations and I find royalty to be a riveting element as there’s always some hidden history, plots to uncover, and secrets to unveil! When Princess Jennica tells us, “sometimes legends lie,” we know an engrossing tale is about to be weaved, and I loved every word.
I really enjoyed delving into the magic, which is a living breathing thing with a life of its own, and seeing how the magic system works. For some such as the fae their magic is innate and they only have to think something for their power to work. For others, they can harness their power by casting spells, and spells can be made personal to the castor. We learn of magical conduits which act as a booster and of the toll the magic can take. I loved the way Lumayno skilfully threads this information so naturally through the story, I was fascinated to learn more and it made me feel a part of it all to find some things out at the same time as Jennica.
The writing flowed seamlessly; the words wrap around you and carry you away to the magical realms so vividly described. The story is told from Princess Jennica’s point of view and I adored her voice which draws us into the story so effortlessly, she is an immensely likeable character – kind, sarcastic and witty, and feels so real – I was rooting for her from the first page!
The King has arranged a political match for Jennica and announces she is to wed Prince Anders in a month’s time. Next thing we know, she’s being led into a secret passageway – her Mother drops a massive bombshell – and she is given a quest to find a dragon seeker to locate Joichan! An intriguing journey unravels where Jennica has to hide who she is and as a result can experience life outside of the Palace walls visiting the other Lands. It’s an empowering experience as she grows as a person becoming more independent and self-assured.
Beyan is a dragon seeker and agrees to take Jennica to Joichan with his friends, Rhyss and Farrah. I loved the travelling gang and their interactions – the camaraderie and support between them, the laughs and bickering – they were like a little family growing ever closer as the days went by. Jennica’s conflicting emotions are scattered through the pages as she keeps her true identity and motives concealed. Beyan is a loveable character who fits opposite Jennica perfectly. He has real depth to him, having had a difficult childhood where the burden of dragon seeking fell to him at a young age, we see how this still affects him. I enjoyed learning how each dragon has a magical signature that Beyan can track and finding out more about how the power works, and that it can be a gift as well as a curse.
The suspense is ramped up as we learn of the King’s sinister past with Beyan’s Dad and how cruel and evil he really is. Jennica has to deal with the turmoil of betraying those closest to her while trying to tap into her true magical capabilities. When she’s finally able to reveal the truth we glimpse how much it means to each of them to finally all be on the same page. They pull together as a team – they each started on the journey with their individual goals and end up having a joint mission.
It was completely absorbing and unputdownable, as the story unravelled I found myself caught up in their epic quest as the King’s nefarious plans are discovered – can love and honour prevail? It’s a fun filled, action packed read with incredible characters, world-building, and twists sprinkled through the pages.
This is a triumph of a debut and I am so glad it’s only the first book in the Kingdom Legacy series. I read the excerpt for the next instalment and it sounds like it’s going to be another amazingly awesome addition! I can’t wait to follow Kaernan’s journey wherever it may take us…
With thanks to @Escapist_Tours and @Rachaneelumayno for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
Lumayno transports us to an enchanting world filled with magic, dragons, fae, shapeshifters and so much more! The world building is crafted in such an intricate and unique way that it pulled me instantly into this captivating and addictive story. Calia is part of the Gifted Lands and is distinguished for its magic, and I loved how each realm has its own unique properties setting it apart from the others. In particular, I thoroughly enjoyed their stop in Annlyn where they meet the charming and alluring Pazho, and how the inhabitants are able to change into their animal forms while being able to appear invisible to any visitors!
It was entertaining to hear of the fairytale background for Calia and how the King saved the Queen from a dragon to win her heart. The kingdom has been in their family for generations and I find royalty to be a riveting element as there’s always some hidden history, plots to uncover, and secrets to unveil! When Princess Jennica tells us, “sometimes legends lie,” we know an engrossing tale is about to be weaved, and I loved every word.
I really enjoyed delving into the magic, which is a living breathing thing with a life of its own, and seeing how the magic system works. For some such as the fae their magic is innate and they only have to think something for their power to work. For others, they can harness their power by casting spells, and spells can be made personal to the castor. We learn of magical conduits which act as a booster and of the toll the magic can take. I loved the way Lumayno skilfully threads this information so naturally through the story, I was fascinated to learn more and it made me feel a part of it all to find some things out at the same time as Jennica.
The writing flowed seamlessly; the words wrap around you and carry you away to the magical realms so vividly described. The story is told from Princess Jennica’s point of view and I adored her voice which draws us into the story so effortlessly, she is an immensely likeable character – kind, sarcastic and witty, and feels so real – I was rooting for her from the first page!
The King has arranged a political match for Jennica and announces she is to wed Prince Anders in a month’s time. Next thing we know, she’s being led into a secret passageway – her Mother drops a massive bombshell – and she is given a quest to find a dragon seeker to locate Joichan! An intriguing journey unravels where Jennica has to hide who she is and as a result can experience life outside of the Palace walls visiting the other Lands. It’s an empowering experience as she grows as a person becoming more independent and self-assured.
Beyan is a dragon seeker and agrees to take Jennica to Joichan with his friends, Rhyss and Farrah. I loved the travelling gang and their interactions – the camaraderie and support between them, the laughs and bickering – they were like a little family growing ever closer as the days went by. Jennica’s conflicting emotions are scattered through the pages as she keeps her true identity and motives concealed. Beyan is a loveable character who fits opposite Jennica perfectly. He has real depth to him, having had a difficult childhood where the burden of dragon seeking fell to him at a young age, we see how this still affects him. I enjoyed learning how each dragon has a magical signature that Beyan can track and finding out more about how the power works, and that it can be a gift as well as a curse.
The suspense is ramped up as we learn of the King’s sinister past with Beyan’s Dad and how cruel and evil he really is. Jennica has to deal with the turmoil of betraying those closest to her while trying to tap into her true magical capabilities. When she’s finally able to reveal the truth we glimpse how much it means to each of them to finally all be on the same page. They pull together as a team – they each started on the journey with their individual goals and end up having a joint mission.
It was completely absorbing and unputdownable, as the story unravelled I found myself caught up in their epic quest as the King’s nefarious plans are discovered – can love and honour prevail? It’s a fun filled, action packed read with incredible characters, world-building, and twists sprinkled through the pages.
This is a triumph of a debut and I am so glad it’s only the first book in the Kingdom Legacy series. I read the excerpt for the next instalment and it sounds like it’s going to be another amazingly awesome addition! I can’t wait to follow Kaernan’s journey wherever it may take us…
With thanks to @Escapist_Tours and @Rachaneelumayno for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
July 18, 2024
heir of amber and fire
3✨
overview: I read this because it was free on smashwords lol; quick and cute!
characters: Jennica was a sweetheart, brave and surprisingly unspoiled for a princess — but she also has raw moments of realizing how privileged she is, and how others sacrifice much to survive.
I enjoyed the side characters Beyan, Rhyss, and Farrah, as well — definitely some found family scenes!
Jennica and her father were sweet to watch reunite!
romance: there’s was almost 0 romance for the first 70% — but then there’s the tiniest lil romance between Jennica and Beyan.
✨ hidden identity
✨ fated quest
✨ royalty x commoner
writing: easy to read and quick paced.
atmosphere: walking down dirt paths, dragons flying overhead, a sword glinting in the warm sun.
Cool grey stone shimmered in the sunlight, reflecting off the blue and green cobblestones which were laid out in an eye-catching pattern in the courtyard. It gave you the sensation of swimming. Two impressive stone fountains flanked the front doors of the palace, always flowing with pure, clear water.
As I entered the house, my eyes were drawn to all the fantastic things on display. Whoever lived here was obviously well-traveled, as souvenirs from all over the Gifted Lands and beyond were featured all over the room. I spied a small square of stained glass layered on the window, its rich blue and green rays of colored light illuminating the wooden carvings on a table nearby. A lush red silk robe hung on one wall, and an impressive tapestry of the night sky hung on another wall. I longed to examine it up close. And everywhere I looked—on bookshelves, on the mantle, even on the windowsills—there were little painted figurines of various kinds of dragons. But even though all these interesting knick-knacks initially drew the eye, they couldn’t disguise the peeling paint on the walls, the warped wooden furniture, or the fraying fabric curtains drawn back from the windows. This sad backdrop to the bright and beautiful objects surrounding us made me feel that, instead of a proud display of a well-lived life, they were testaments to a faded glory.
season: summer.
———
content: language (n/a). sexual (just handholding; no spice). other (mentions of magic, dragons, gods, fae, shapeshifters).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
3✨
overview: I read this because it was free on smashwords lol; quick and cute!
characters: Jennica was a sweetheart, brave and surprisingly unspoiled for a princess — but she also has raw moments of realizing how privileged she is, and how others sacrifice much to survive.
I enjoyed the side characters Beyan, Rhyss, and Farrah, as well — definitely some found family scenes!
Jennica and her father were sweet to watch reunite!
romance: there’s was almost 0 romance for the first 70% — but then there’s the tiniest lil romance between Jennica and Beyan.
✨ hidden identity
✨ fated quest
✨ royalty x commoner
writing: easy to read and quick paced.
atmosphere: walking down dirt paths, dragons flying overhead, a sword glinting in the warm sun.
Cool grey stone shimmered in the sunlight, reflecting off the blue and green cobblestones which were laid out in an eye-catching pattern in the courtyard. It gave you the sensation of swimming. Two impressive stone fountains flanked the front doors of the palace, always flowing with pure, clear water.
As I entered the house, my eyes were drawn to all the fantastic things on display. Whoever lived here was obviously well-traveled, as souvenirs from all over the Gifted Lands and beyond were featured all over the room. I spied a small square of stained glass layered on the window, its rich blue and green rays of colored light illuminating the wooden carvings on a table nearby. A lush red silk robe hung on one wall, and an impressive tapestry of the night sky hung on another wall. I longed to examine it up close. And everywhere I looked—on bookshelves, on the mantle, even on the windowsills—there were little painted figurines of various kinds of dragons. But even though all these interesting knick-knacks initially drew the eye, they couldn’t disguise the peeling paint on the walls, the warped wooden furniture, or the fraying fabric curtains drawn back from the windows. This sad backdrop to the bright and beautiful objects surrounding us made me feel that, instead of a proud display of a well-lived life, they were testaments to a faded glory.
season: summer.
———
content: language (n/a). sexual (just handholding; no spice). other (mentions of magic, dragons, gods, fae, shapeshifters).
———
💌PS (I LOVE YOU)
— Kirsten <3
March 20, 2022
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Heir of Amber and Fire
Thank you to Escapist Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!
Princess Jennica’s world turns upside down when she discovers she’s to be married off to a man she barely knows. But her mother senses something is afoot and aids in Jennica’s escape from the castle. Told to find Kye the dragon seeker, Jennica embarks on a quest to find the dragon Joichan. However, the King’s plotting goes beyond mere political gain. Jennica will find escaping an arranged marriage is only the beginning.
Heir of Amber and Fire is a light read with a plot that steers Jennica ever closer to the end of her quest. There are a few interesting character reveals, but nothing overtly startling. I was able to predict many of the twists, but the events leading up to these moments were still a fun read. And when it was time for Jennica to face off against some of her greater challenges, the pages flew by as her will was tested.
Given the lighter tone, Jennica striking out on her own held some minor pitfalls, but nothing too harsh. The writing focused more on Jennica learning how to manage on her own, and the differences she felt interacting with people who didn’t know she was royalty. This was a welcomed departure from high tension stakes, allowing readers time to know Jennica as a character before diving into the more action heavy scenes later on.
There are moments where the pacing is a bit off. Exposition is used to bridge the world-building and highlight the past. And actions such as eating and sleeping are often mentioned instead of leaving the reader to assume these occur. While at times these can add to a story, there is a fine balance to maintain while doing so. However, the companions Jennica finds are a delight to read. The characters are easy to connect with and will bring a smile to your face as they form bonds along their journey. Witnessing their friendships unfold, and the bits of light tension laced between their different goals upped my engagement of the story.
If you’re a reader looking for a book to introduce you to the fantasy genre, Heir of Amber and Fire would be a great read. There is a wonderful mix of fantasy elements within these pages. Fans of dragons, magic, and princesses turned heroines should also give it a try.
Thank you to Escapist Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!
Princess Jennica’s world turns upside down when she discovers she’s to be married off to a man she barely knows. But her mother senses something is afoot and aids in Jennica’s escape from the castle. Told to find Kye the dragon seeker, Jennica embarks on a quest to find the dragon Joichan. However, the King’s plotting goes beyond mere political gain. Jennica will find escaping an arranged marriage is only the beginning.
Heir of Amber and Fire is a light read with a plot that steers Jennica ever closer to the end of her quest. There are a few interesting character reveals, but nothing overtly startling. I was able to predict many of the twists, but the events leading up to these moments were still a fun read. And when it was time for Jennica to face off against some of her greater challenges, the pages flew by as her will was tested.
Given the lighter tone, Jennica striking out on her own held some minor pitfalls, but nothing too harsh. The writing focused more on Jennica learning how to manage on her own, and the differences she felt interacting with people who didn’t know she was royalty. This was a welcomed departure from high tension stakes, allowing readers time to know Jennica as a character before diving into the more action heavy scenes later on.
There are moments where the pacing is a bit off. Exposition is used to bridge the world-building and highlight the past. And actions such as eating and sleeping are often mentioned instead of leaving the reader to assume these occur. While at times these can add to a story, there is a fine balance to maintain while doing so. However, the companions Jennica finds are a delight to read. The characters are easy to connect with and will bring a smile to your face as they form bonds along their journey. Witnessing their friendships unfold, and the bits of light tension laced between their different goals upped my engagement of the story.
If you’re a reader looking for a book to introduce you to the fantasy genre, Heir of Amber and Fire would be a great read. There is a wonderful mix of fantasy elements within these pages. Fans of dragons, magic, and princesses turned heroines should also give it a try.
Want to read
July 10, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBOX contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
The Princess of a magical kingdom has a father who dislikes and distrusts magic in this wonderful high fantasy, fairytale opening packed with promise!
This opening is as solid as they come. The prose is perfectly readable and engaging. It’s full of grounding character details, introductory information, an ever increasingly solid sense of exactly where we are and what kind of story we’re in. It’s perfect.
There’s something familiar about everything here, but also something increasingly and undeniably special. I sense some exciting subversions of traditional fantasy/fairytale tropes to come! A number of details make the setting and story pop with a special vibrancy.
Our female MC is practicing magic secretly, except it isn’t a secret she keeps from her handmaid. It isn’t a dark secret, just one of those things she doesn’t need to advertise to the King, even tho the family has always practiced magic. Mark that as a point of intrigue!
The kingdom’s capital is dominated by a huge, beautiful palace. The guards and servants bow as our princess returns to her chambers listening to the idle gossip of her handmaid. It’s another ordinary day … or is it?
Some of the gossip sounds particularly intriguing. Missing youths, twins having horrible nightmares, the youth returning changed.
Our MC stops to contemplate a huge painting commemorating her parent’s union - her mother, then a princess, abducted by a dragon; her father, then a knight, rescuing her. And so their great love affair began!
It’s wonderful, fairytale stuff! But fairytales are often lies, our MC knows. More intrigue!
Something is waiting for our MC at the dinner with her father the king tonight. He has made certain demands about her dress. These demands are not to be disobeyed. What is about to happen?
This is a marvelously competent beginning, reeling its reader page by page. Every detail feels absolutely important to me, and yet it is so subtly and simply delivered, making me feel I am in the best hands.
This has been a highlight of my opening reads so far! I definitely want to see where all these details will lead. It’s the first in a series, and only 0.99c. And at >300pgs, I expect a focused story! Im in!
The Princess of a magical kingdom has a father who dislikes and distrusts magic in this wonderful high fantasy, fairytale opening packed with promise!
This opening is as solid as they come. The prose is perfectly readable and engaging. It’s full of grounding character details, introductory information, an ever increasingly solid sense of exactly where we are and what kind of story we’re in. It’s perfect.
There’s something familiar about everything here, but also something increasingly and undeniably special. I sense some exciting subversions of traditional fantasy/fairytale tropes to come! A number of details make the setting and story pop with a special vibrancy.
Our female MC is practicing magic secretly, except it isn’t a secret she keeps from her handmaid. It isn’t a dark secret, just one of those things she doesn’t need to advertise to the King, even tho the family has always practiced magic. Mark that as a point of intrigue!
The kingdom’s capital is dominated by a huge, beautiful palace. The guards and servants bow as our princess returns to her chambers listening to the idle gossip of her handmaid. It’s another ordinary day … or is it?
Some of the gossip sounds particularly intriguing. Missing youths, twins having horrible nightmares, the youth returning changed.
Our MC stops to contemplate a huge painting commemorating her parent’s union - her mother, then a princess, abducted by a dragon; her father, then a knight, rescuing her. And so their great love affair began!
It’s wonderful, fairytale stuff! But fairytales are often lies, our MC knows. More intrigue!
Something is waiting for our MC at the dinner with her father the king tonight. He has made certain demands about her dress. These demands are not to be disobeyed. What is about to happen?
This is a marvelously competent beginning, reeling its reader page by page. Every detail feels absolutely important to me, and yet it is so subtly and simply delivered, making me feel I am in the best hands.
This has been a highlight of my opening reads so far! I definitely want to see where all these details will lead. It’s the first in a series, and only 0.99c. And at >300pgs, I expect a focused story! Im in!
February 21, 2023
'Heir of Amber and Fire' is a fantasy novel set in a world known as "the Gifted Lands." These lands are called that because each nation's people has a special gift. For example, our protagonist hails from Calia, a land known for its people's talents in magic.
Within the first few chapters we get both the backstory and the main conflict: Princess Jennica's parents had a classic fairy tale romance, in that her father was a knight who rescued her princess mother from a dragon and so won her hand in marriage. We also learn that her father wishes to marry her off to a prince of another kingdom, one with a gift for military might that sees magic as foolish and dangerous. Jennica's mother sends her away in secret to find the dragon who "kidnapped" her, escape her marriage, and perhaps even save the kingdom in the process.
What follows is a classic fantasy adventure. If that's what your after, then look no further: we have a hero with hidden talents she must uncover, a journey involving multiple companions, and a wicked king looking to stop our heroes by any means necessary. Sometimes you want that classic fantasy feel, and 'Heir of Amber and Fire' delivers wonderfully.
My only real issue with the story is one of worldbuilding. The exact nature of the "gifts" seemed odd. Magic is not uniquely Calian--they appear to just be better at it than anyone else--but we see other kingdoms with citizens who do have unique supernatural talents which are, apparently, not the same. The military country's disdain for magic also seems odd. They spurn it because it's not "logical," but they live in a world where magic empirically exists, so wouldn't spurning such a powerful and obvious tool be a detriment to their military? I hope these sorts of things are explored in greater detail in the following books in the series.
These sorts of issues were pure Fridge Logic for me, however. They did not occur to me while I was reading the book (all in one sitting--it's a pretty light and easy read), only after I'd finished it. So my questions here did not actually impact my enjoyment of the novel.
Overall, I'd say this is a no-brainer recommendation to anyone who wants to read a classic fantasy adventure novel.
Within the first few chapters we get both the backstory and the main conflict: Princess Jennica's parents had a classic fairy tale romance, in that her father was a knight who rescued her princess mother from a dragon and so won her hand in marriage. We also learn that her father wishes to marry her off to a prince of another kingdom, one with a gift for military might that sees magic as foolish and dangerous. Jennica's mother sends her away in secret to find the dragon who "kidnapped" her, escape her marriage, and perhaps even save the kingdom in the process.
What follows is a classic fantasy adventure. If that's what your after, then look no further: we have a hero with hidden talents she must uncover, a journey involving multiple companions, and a wicked king looking to stop our heroes by any means necessary. Sometimes you want that classic fantasy feel, and 'Heir of Amber and Fire' delivers wonderfully.
My only real issue with the story is one of worldbuilding. The exact nature of the "gifts" seemed odd. Magic is not uniquely Calian--they appear to just be better at it than anyone else--but we see other kingdoms with citizens who do have unique supernatural talents which are, apparently, not the same. The military country's disdain for magic also seems odd. They spurn it because it's not "logical," but they live in a world where magic empirically exists, so wouldn't spurning such a powerful and obvious tool be a detriment to their military? I hope these sorts of things are explored in greater detail in the following books in the series.
These sorts of issues were pure Fridge Logic for me, however. They did not occur to me while I was reading the book (all in one sitting--it's a pretty light and easy read), only after I'd finished it. So my questions here did not actually impact my enjoyment of the novel.
Overall, I'd say this is a no-brainer recommendation to anyone who wants to read a classic fantasy adventure novel.
October 1, 2021
Heir Of Amber And Fire: Kingdom Legacy Book One by Rachanee Lumayno is the perfect way to start off a new month of reading and listening enjoyment. This author is one of my favorite audiobook narrators and the absolute excitement it gave me to listen to her first book paid off in five stars!
Princess Jennica is shocked when the King tells her she is to be married to a prince she has never met for political gain. Within hours her mother arranges for her to sneak out of the castle with a mission.
With the help of her servants who have now become her friends and allies she must find the mysterious dragon seeker to find the creature who, before Jennica was even born, kidnapped her mother. Her mother swears he will be able to help them stop the King.
One of the best experiences of this audiobook is the author narrating it herself. Having her perform the characters she imagined from her mind into a brilliant fantasy novel brings a whole new level of joy to listening to it.
I was honestly surprised at how many twisty turns this story took. There were some genuinely shocking reveals for me. Start your month off right with this delightfully fun adventurous fantasy and listen to talented author and actress Rachanee Lumayno bring her imagination to life. Oh and as an added bonus there are DRAGONS!!!
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Princess Jennica is shocked when the King tells her she is to be married to a prince she has never met for political gain. Within hours her mother arranges for her to sneak out of the castle with a mission.
With the help of her servants who have now become her friends and allies she must find the mysterious dragon seeker to find the creature who, before Jennica was even born, kidnapped her mother. Her mother swears he will be able to help them stop the King.
One of the best experiences of this audiobook is the author narrating it herself. Having her perform the characters she imagined from her mind into a brilliant fantasy novel brings a whole new level of joy to listening to it.
I was honestly surprised at how many twisty turns this story took. There were some genuinely shocking reveals for me. Start your month off right with this delightfully fun adventurous fantasy and listen to talented author and actress Rachanee Lumayno bring her imagination to life. Oh and as an added bonus there are DRAGONS!!!
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 17, 2022
I was granted complimentary access to Heir of Amber and Fire by Rachanee Lumayno as part of my participation in a blog tour for this title with Escapist Book Tours. Thank you to all involved in affording me this opportunity! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
We've got strong women, dragons, shapeshifters, a great magic system, and a very well-planned out world. What more can you ask for? Heir of Amber and Fire is a fresh, intriguing read that held my attention from the first page to the last. I'm so glad this book toured with a company I post for because this is not a book I would ever want to miss! And did I mention dragons?
I think this book will appeal to most fantasy readers, but I want to highlight the fact that while this story has a new, unique overall plot, it definitely has a classic folklore & fairytale retelling sort of story and well-read readers will find a lot of comfortingly familiar touchstones throughout. This book pulls out all the classic stops like betroathals, murders, runaway princesses, and forbidden love, but also throws a lot of twists and turns at you that you might not see coming. There's definitely room to wonder if perhaps there was a little too much squeezed into this modestly sized first book in the series, but it certainly does a great job of setting up a promising series and flexing the author's writing skills.
Read this and then keep an eye out for book two!
We've got strong women, dragons, shapeshifters, a great magic system, and a very well-planned out world. What more can you ask for? Heir of Amber and Fire is a fresh, intriguing read that held my attention from the first page to the last. I'm so glad this book toured with a company I post for because this is not a book I would ever want to miss! And did I mention dragons?
I think this book will appeal to most fantasy readers, but I want to highlight the fact that while this story has a new, unique overall plot, it definitely has a classic folklore & fairytale retelling sort of story and well-read readers will find a lot of comfortingly familiar touchstones throughout. This book pulls out all the classic stops like betroathals, murders, runaway princesses, and forbidden love, but also throws a lot of twists and turns at you that you might not see coming. There's definitely room to wonder if perhaps there was a little too much squeezed into this modestly sized first book in the series, but it certainly does a great job of setting up a promising series and flexing the author's writing skills.
Read this and then keep an eye out for book two!
November 24, 2023
Delightful and imaginative start to a series.
Princess Jennica's whole world changes the night that her father announces that she is to marry Prince Anders in a month's time. Unease and fearing what it means, she ends up escaping the castle with the help of her lady-in-waiting and with her mother's urging to find Kye of Orchwell. He is a dragon seeker, and her mother wants her to find the dragon that had kidnapped the queen before Jennica was born.
On this adventure, the princess ends up undergoing a journey of self-awakening as well as becoming a part of a tight-knit group of friends. She will need all the strength and help that she can find to foil the king's plan and save her kingdom, along with the rest of the world, from falling into his hands.
Was this book a little predictable? Yes, it was, but Rachanee Lumayno does a great job of bringing her characters to life as well as distinguishing between each of the different countries that make up the Gifted Lands. I look forward to diving into the next book and seeing what new adventure she ends up taking the readers on.
Princess Jennica's whole world changes the night that her father announces that she is to marry Prince Anders in a month's time. Unease and fearing what it means, she ends up escaping the castle with the help of her lady-in-waiting and with her mother's urging to find Kye of Orchwell. He is a dragon seeker, and her mother wants her to find the dragon that had kidnapped the queen before Jennica was born.
On this adventure, the princess ends up undergoing a journey of self-awakening as well as becoming a part of a tight-knit group of friends. She will need all the strength and help that she can find to foil the king's plan and save her kingdom, along with the rest of the world, from falling into his hands.
Was this book a little predictable? Yes, it was, but Rachanee Lumayno does a great job of bringing her characters to life as well as distinguishing between each of the different countries that make up the Gifted Lands. I look forward to diving into the next book and seeing what new adventure she ends up taking the readers on.
July 23, 2024
I really liked this story. It's full of magic, secrets & loyalty. A new author for me & I can't wait to read more.
Princess Jennica was told by her father the king to report to dinner and to dress accordingly. She didn't suspect anything so did as she was told. When she arrived she saw Prince Anders was dining with them. When her father announced she would marry Prince Anders her whole world exploded. She wasn't happy about this and vowed to get answers from her mother. When she arrived to see her mother, she was shocked when her mother gave her a letter and a necklace then told her she must flee. With the help of her trusted ladies maid she did just that. The letter told her the king wasn't her father. She was to return a necklace to it's rightful owner. She had a lot of questions involving her father a dragon shifter and the evil king with some kind of mind control magic. She vowed to find out more about her heritage & abilities with the help of her friends. Her journey was full of lies, secrets revealed and family.
Princess Jennica was told by her father the king to report to dinner and to dress accordingly. She didn't suspect anything so did as she was told. When she arrived she saw Prince Anders was dining with them. When her father announced she would marry Prince Anders her whole world exploded. She wasn't happy about this and vowed to get answers from her mother. When she arrived to see her mother, she was shocked when her mother gave her a letter and a necklace then told her she must flee. With the help of her trusted ladies maid she did just that. The letter told her the king wasn't her father. She was to return a necklace to it's rightful owner. She had a lot of questions involving her father a dragon shifter and the evil king with some kind of mind control magic. She vowed to find out more about her heritage & abilities with the help of her friends. Her journey was full of lies, secrets revealed and family.
January 26, 2023
Fun YA Clean Fantasy with Dragons!
Parents- PG - this is acceptable for preteens and up
Language- none that I remember - no f-bombs
Violence- PG13- normal to genre nothing very detailed
Sexual Content- PG- alluded to relationships but no described interactions, flirtation and kissing but nothing really to warn of
I really enjoyed this book, while I thought some of the story to be a bit simple or convenient in some scenes it didn't make the story any less enjoyable. The story has a good pace to it and there's enough action to keep me engrossed and it difficult to put down. If the summery sounded up your alley then definitely give this one a shot- it's hard to go wrong with magic, dragons, adventure and a touch of romance.
Narrator- (3.5⭐) Pleasant voice, good differentiations, and I preferred listening at 1.2x speed.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Parents- PG - this is acceptable for preteens and up
Language- none that I remember - no f-bombs
Violence- PG13- normal to genre nothing very detailed
Sexual Content- PG- alluded to relationships but no described interactions, flirtation and kissing but nothing really to warn of
I really enjoyed this book, while I thought some of the story to be a bit simple or convenient in some scenes it didn't make the story any less enjoyable. The story has a good pace to it and there's enough action to keep me engrossed and it difficult to put down. If the summery sounded up your alley then definitely give this one a shot- it's hard to go wrong with magic, dragons, adventure and a touch of romance.
Narrator- (3.5⭐) Pleasant voice, good differentiations, and I preferred listening at 1.2x speed.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 23, 2023
I wrote my reviews backwards for this series - writing the review for book two first, then realizing that I had forgotten to write the review for the first book.
I want to reiterate that the world building in these books is something worth reading. Not every author can so easily invite you into a world of their imagination without a little confusion on the reader's part as we have to remember strange names, lands, customs, kingdoms, and races. However, this author is able to do just that. The author weaves words together in such a way that readers are drawn into the world and the story without confusion or needing to refer to maps and pronunciation guides. I love this about this series.
And, while there is a bit of everything in the story there is nothing that would prevent younger readers from enjoying this rich world and well-developed characters in a story that is worth remembering.
Well done Rachanee Lumayno - can't wait for more from you!
I want to reiterate that the world building in these books is something worth reading. Not every author can so easily invite you into a world of their imagination without a little confusion on the reader's part as we have to remember strange names, lands, customs, kingdoms, and races. However, this author is able to do just that. The author weaves words together in such a way that readers are drawn into the world and the story without confusion or needing to refer to maps and pronunciation guides. I love this about this series.
And, while there is a bit of everything in the story there is nothing that would prevent younger readers from enjoying this rich world and well-developed characters in a story that is worth remembering.
Well done Rachanee Lumayno - can't wait for more from you!
Want to read
December 26, 2022Hello dear readers!
I'm so excited to share this book, the first in the Kingdom Legacy fantasy series, with all of you! Fun fact: Jennica, the MC of this book, was based off a Dungeons and Dragons campaign that never happened. But I kept her backstory, and that was the foundation of this book.
Heir of Amber and Fire is also, like so many other books published in this time frame, a pandemic baby. Oh, they grow so fast -- HAF has siblings now! As of this writing, Book 3 is due to release very soon!
For you fantasy and tabletop roleplay fans, I created a one-shot campaign set in Jennica's world that you can download for free when you sign up for my newsletter - https://www.rachanee.net/newsletter. So happy reading and happy gaming!
And thank you for giving my books a chance.
Rachanee
I'm so excited to share this book, the first in the Kingdom Legacy fantasy series, with all of you! Fun fact: Jennica, the MC of this book, was based off a Dungeons and Dragons campaign that never happened. But I kept her backstory, and that was the foundation of this book.
Heir of Amber and Fire is also, like so many other books published in this time frame, a pandemic baby. Oh, they grow so fast -- HAF has siblings now! As of this writing, Book 3 is due to release very soon!
For you fantasy and tabletop roleplay fans, I created a one-shot campaign set in Jennica's world that you can download for free when you sign up for my newsletter - https://www.rachanee.net/newsletter. So happy reading and happy gaming!
And thank you for giving my books a chance.
Rachanee
June 8, 2023
This was a very enjoyable YA book. We get a little bit of everything from sorcery, dragons, fae, and different shape shifters. That only covers the basics of cause as we read we uncover so much more to the world that Lumayno created. The cover drew me in from the beginning....I mean how can you say no to a stunning MC and DRAGONS. There's so much hidden and to uncover as we find out the truths of everything with Princess Jennica. It's easy to feel that we're seeing it through Jennica's eyes.
I listened to the audiobook and it was phenomenal. The narrator made it so easy to relate with the characters and made it easier to establish the personalities between the characters. I would easily recommend reading this story but listening to it made it such a better experience. I will definitely be continuing this series cause I need to know what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook and it was phenomenal. The narrator made it so easy to relate with the characters and made it easier to establish the personalities between the characters. I would easily recommend reading this story but listening to it made it such a better experience. I will definitely be continuing this series cause I need to know what happens next!
June 12, 2023
Princess Jennica is on the run from her arranged marriage. Tasked to find a dragon who captured her mother long ago, she must trust the help of a dragon seeker.
Will she learn the truth in time to save her kingdom?
I listened to the audio version of this and I loved it. It was narrated by the author, so I got to hear how she imagined the characters' sound and how things were pronounced. She was very good at narrating and made it very interesting to listen to.
In typical fantasy fashion, the book is slow and challenging to follow along until the initial world-building is complete. After that things pick up and it's a very interesting book.
I love that the FMC is strong and finds her way, even if she doesn't initially know what to do.
I would love to listen to more books narrated by this author or read books written by her.
Will she learn the truth in time to save her kingdom?
I listened to the audio version of this and I loved it. It was narrated by the author, so I got to hear how she imagined the characters' sound and how things were pronounced. She was very good at narrating and made it very interesting to listen to.
In typical fantasy fashion, the book is slow and challenging to follow along until the initial world-building is complete. After that things pick up and it's a very interesting book.
I love that the FMC is strong and finds her way, even if she doesn't initially know what to do.
I would love to listen to more books narrated by this author or read books written by her.
June 30, 2023
4.5 stars.
This is a sweet, gentle YA fantasy read with plenty of twists, a touch of humour and shape shifting to boot.
I particularly enjoyed the shape-shifting to dragons!
You'll enjoy this if you like more traditional fantasies with a female main protagonist - Princess Jennica, her lady in waiting, Taryn, and her band of friends. Expect lots of magic, and magical stones... which I Love.
And... Princess Jennica, fleeing an enforced marriage discovers revelations about King Hendon, the dragon Joichan, her mother, the Queen and herself!
It's a quick, enjoyable read which kept my attention throughout. I believe it is the 1st book in a series.
Thank you to the author for a copy via the Fantasy Sci Fi Alliance. A lovely read, recommended.
This is a sweet, gentle YA fantasy read with plenty of twists, a touch of humour and shape shifting to boot.
I particularly enjoyed the shape-shifting to dragons!
You'll enjoy this if you like more traditional fantasies with a female main protagonist - Princess Jennica, her lady in waiting, Taryn, and her band of friends. Expect lots of magic, and magical stones... which I Love.
And... Princess Jennica, fleeing an enforced marriage discovers revelations about King Hendon, the dragon Joichan, her mother, the Queen and herself!
It's a quick, enjoyable read which kept my attention throughout. I believe it is the 1st book in a series.
Thank you to the author for a copy via the Fantasy Sci Fi Alliance. A lovely read, recommended.
February 23, 2023
Heir of Amber and Fire was such a fun read. Nobel bright fantasy, good versus evil, engaging characters, magic... If these are your checkboxes, this book is for you. The magic system is reminiscent of roleplaying, and the action feels a bit like we are following protagonists along on a carefully crafted adventure.
The story is probably written to the younger set of YA readers; it's not what I would usually pick up at the bookstore, but I had so much fun following Princess Jennica around as she tries to figure out what has happened to the kingdom and make it right. I really couldn't put it down, and I'm looking forward to reading other things Rachanee has written.
The story is probably written to the younger set of YA readers; it's not what I would usually pick up at the bookstore, but I had so much fun following Princess Jennica around as she tries to figure out what has happened to the kingdom and make it right. I really couldn't put it down, and I'm looking forward to reading other things Rachanee has written.
October 14, 2023
Audiobook: This was my first experience with Rachanee Lumayno's work, and it was entertaining. This was the first book in the "Kingdom Legacy" series, and it was fun. From the opening paragraphs until the end of the audiobook, I was captivated by the story. Princess Jennica of Calia went in search of a dragon who might help her to save the kingdom. The story had several twists and plenty of action. The characters were fierce and brave. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Rachanee Lumayno's narration was fine, and her performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
September 30, 2024
a beautiful and original story
I’ve experienced this book as both an audiobook and an ebook, and I have to say that, despite listening over a course of months, it’s kept me engaged. The author (she narrated herself!) has a lovely, bright voice, with different versions for every character, and it just pulled me into her world. The story is original, with complex magic, and I love the emphasis on multiple different types of relationships. The found family, the heroine’s journey for her father, the concern for her kingdom… it was beautifully portrayed, and I was so immersed in the world I could not help but read the next book immediately!
I’ve experienced this book as both an audiobook and an ebook, and I have to say that, despite listening over a course of months, it’s kept me engaged. The author (she narrated herself!) has a lovely, bright voice, with different versions for every character, and it just pulled me into her world. The story is original, with complex magic, and I love the emphasis on multiple different types of relationships. The found family, the heroine’s journey for her father, the concern for her kingdom… it was beautifully portrayed, and I was so immersed in the world I could not help but read the next book immediately!
May 25, 2023
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my review. I can honestly say I’ve read worse but this wasn’t great. The ideas were nice and the plot interesting but it felt unbalanced. Rushed in some areas, slow as molasses in others. Felt like a slight rip off of a Sarah J Maas novel to be honest. The names of some characters and a couple lines could’ve been easily taken from an acotar book. Overall, the concept was a good one but it could’ve used more work. The solution to the problem was too easy and there were a lot of loop holes.
May 29, 2023
I loved 🥰 this amazing, beautifully crafted and spellbinding story. I hope everyone will enjoy the incredible detail of this wonderful world and fascinating characters that make you smile at some of their stories and adventures. The courage and determination of the princess Jennica of Calia, the love and support of her lady in waiting Taryn, the evil King Hendon of Calia, and the courage and support of the Dragon and many others all make this awesome story, very special reading.
August 12, 2023
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It was a fast, easy read that I was able to do while my kiddo's enjoyed their time at the pool. There was magic, finding family, and it wasn't hard to understand the world or magic system.
I will say that this book did have too fast of a romance for my preference and that put me off a little bit. However, since romance wasn't the main focus of the book I was able to overlook that. I'm looking forward to reading books 2 and 3!
I will say that this book did have too fast of a romance for my preference and that put me off a little bit. However, since romance wasn't the main focus of the book I was able to overlook that. I'm looking forward to reading books 2 and 3!
January 30, 2024
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down. The world building is great, especially as its a fairly short book. I really liked the main character and found the relationships with other characters to be well written. I think the story is very predictable, but if you want an easy read with a good story then I'd recommend this book.
March 5, 2023
Heir of Amber and Fire is an engrossing YA Fantasy that caught me by surprise. Easy pacing, like-able characters, intriguing twists. A tale of a young princess discovering the truth of her family and heritage with the help of new and old friends, with just the right touch of easy romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
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