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Black Heat
Exile. Rebel. Healer. Three underestimated women, destined to be brought together by revenge in this dark and thrilling new YA fantasy.
Marzal - an exiled daughter with a plan for her return.
Rayn - a rebel blacksmith with a blade of blood.
Elena - a gentle midwife with a fiercely protected secret.
Each young woman wants peace for their country, but in times of war, not everyone fights by the same rules. As their countries burn around them, and the stakes of victory rise, each woman will have to decide how far she is willing to go for peace.
But the desire for revenge also burns deep...
A dark and thrilling new fantasy from the author of The Isles of Storm and Sorrow trilogy.
Marzal - an exiled daughter with a plan for her return.
Rayn - a rebel blacksmith with a blade of blood.
Elena - a gentle midwife with a fiercely protected secret.
Each young woman wants peace for their country, but in times of war, not everyone fights by the same rules. As their countries burn around them, and the stakes of victory rise, each woman will have to decide how far she is willing to go for peace.
But the desire for revenge also burns deep...
A dark and thrilling new fantasy from the author of The Isles of Storm and Sorrow trilogy.
384 pages, Paperback
First published July 6, 2023
11 people are currently reading
729 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 13, 2023
It’s been almost two weeks since I devoured Black Heat in less than 24 hours and it’s taken me this long to pull together a review that doesn’t just scream! I feel like we’ve all got a feminist revenge story in us and @bexhogan got to publish hers for ALL OF US. This book is EVERYTHING.
Black Heat is a stunning revenge fantasy about Marzal, Rayn and Elena - three incredible women whose stories converge in the cleverest and most brutal revenge plot I’ve ever read! The way the women’s stories start out separate before coming together at the end, in a masterful stroke of untangled threads and layers, completely blew my mind! This book is about all the different ways that men underestimate women. It’s about an exile, a rebel and a healer from completely different walks of life proving that women are fierce, strong and uncompromising. It’s about men being held to account for their actions and failings. It’s about sisterhood and self rescuing princesses and how deep revenge burns. But mostly it’s about how Bex Hogan was unflinching in her (at times, brutal 👀) choices to create an absolutely epic revenge fantasy that shattered my heart into a thousand tiny pieces with an ending I did not see coming. YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID BEX!!!!!!
Trust me, this story is anything but predictable and it burns with a feminist rage you can’t look away from! Read it and then bombard Bex’s DMs holding her accountable for what she did (SHE KNOWS 👀).
Just going to leave you with my favourite lines:
“For too long, men have taken everything they can from us women. Our bodies, our children, our lives. I will not let you take my power.”
“Men underestimate us at their peril, do they not?”
**SHIVERS**
Black Heat is a stunning revenge fantasy about Marzal, Rayn and Elena - three incredible women whose stories converge in the cleverest and most brutal revenge plot I’ve ever read! The way the women’s stories start out separate before coming together at the end, in a masterful stroke of untangled threads and layers, completely blew my mind! This book is about all the different ways that men underestimate women. It’s about an exile, a rebel and a healer from completely different walks of life proving that women are fierce, strong and uncompromising. It’s about men being held to account for their actions and failings. It’s about sisterhood and self rescuing princesses and how deep revenge burns. But mostly it’s about how Bex Hogan was unflinching in her (at times, brutal 👀) choices to create an absolutely epic revenge fantasy that shattered my heart into a thousand tiny pieces with an ending I did not see coming. YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID BEX!!!!!!
Trust me, this story is anything but predictable and it burns with a feminist rage you can’t look away from! Read it and then bombard Bex’s DMs holding her accountable for what she did (SHE KNOWS 👀).
Just going to leave you with my favourite lines:
“For too long, men have taken everything they can from us women. Our bodies, our children, our lives. I will not let you take my power.”
“Men underestimate us at their peril, do they not?”
**SHIVERS**
September 10, 2023
this was so so good AND featured a scheming bisexual mc so what's not to like?
March 20, 2024
Jag gillade allt med den här, samtidigt som den gjorde mig arg på vissa aspekter i berättelsevärlden! Älskar hur den lyfter kvinnornas tillvaro och synen på dem som grupp i den här fantasyvärlden. Det var så många saker som föll mig i smaken, historien, världsbygget, karaktärerna och slutet! Framförallt slutet som trots allt lyckades överraska mig i viss mån!
July 4, 2023
BEX KNOWS WHAT SHE DID.
SHE KNOWS.
SHE KNOWS.
July 6, 2023
I’m literally speechless rn! A truly brilliant book! :) 📖
July 29, 2023
I went into this book so hyped, as I adored Bex's previous books, and I was NOT let down at all.
Black Heat follows three women who are struggling against a heavily patriarchal society, and it is so impactful and feminist, i loved it. Bex had a quiz up to see which character you were most like - I got Elena, the character i think you spend the least time with (sad). That aside though ;) this really is such an enjoyable book. Some typical fantasy elements in a way, but done in ways that felt new. Plus i feel it’s rare to have three women narrators.
Marzal is our princess, and so full of revenge but with the least freedom. She is fierce and with a spine of steel in ways you don’t fully understand until the end of the book.
Rayn is a blacksmith, but also a daughter from a noble family, and her drive and charisma were fantastic.
Elena is softer in many ways, but still so lovely to see her come into her own as a midwife / wise woman, and so firm about doing the right thing.
I think that’s one thing these women share - doing the right thing, whatever that may be. Marzal’s right thing is definitely an interesting take on life, but it’s hard to argue with really.
I had a great time reading this and definitely recommend that you pick it up, along with the Isles of Storm and Sorrow trilogy ;) 5 stars.
Black Heat follows three women who are struggling against a heavily patriarchal society, and it is so impactful and feminist, i loved it. Bex had a quiz up to see which character you were most like - I got Elena, the character i think you spend the least time with (sad). That aside though ;) this really is such an enjoyable book. Some typical fantasy elements in a way, but done in ways that felt new. Plus i feel it’s rare to have three women narrators.
Marzal is our princess, and so full of revenge but with the least freedom. She is fierce and with a spine of steel in ways you don’t fully understand until the end of the book.
Rayn is a blacksmith, but also a daughter from a noble family, and her drive and charisma were fantastic.
Elena is softer in many ways, but still so lovely to see her come into her own as a midwife / wise woman, and so firm about doing the right thing.
I think that’s one thing these women share - doing the right thing, whatever that may be. Marzal’s right thing is definitely an interesting take on life, but it’s hard to argue with really.
I had a great time reading this and definitely recommend that you pick it up, along with the Isles of Storm and Sorrow trilogy ;) 5 stars.
September 22, 2023
I received this book from the publisher in return for an honest.
I liked the three main characters, how different they were and how the author brought their stories together.
I loved how morally grey the characters were, it gave them so much depth and made their actions more believable.
The only reason why this is not a 5 star read for me is the ending, some of the twists hit me by surprise but I felt like it ended quite abruptly and could have done with another few chapters with what happened next.
Overall, it was such a great read, I definitely recommend this book!
I liked the three main characters, how different they were and how the author brought their stories together.
I loved how morally grey the characters were, it gave them so much depth and made their actions more believable.
The only reason why this is not a 5 star read for me is the ending, some of the twists hit me by surprise but I felt like it ended quite abruptly and could have done with another few chapters with what happened next.
Overall, it was such a great read, I definitely recommend this book!
July 19, 2023
4.5⭐
This was a "just one more chapter!" book and I really enjoyed it. I loved all 3 of the women povs and how their stories linked. My *only* thing is that I worked out some parts which can then make the twists less impactful. Apart from that, this book and world is absolutely brilliant and I would definitely recommend reading!
This was a "just one more chapter!" book and I really enjoyed it. I loved all 3 of the women povs and how their stories linked. My *only* thing is that I worked out some parts which can then make the twists less impactful. Apart from that, this book and world is absolutely brilliant and I would definitely recommend reading!
April 24, 2023
I am thoroughly traumatised and yet UTTERLY ECSTATIC, because this book is SO GOOD!! It's like the ultimate cross between Twin Crowns and Sarah J. Maas, but with more death and destruction, and I loved every second!
July 2, 2023
I’m going to need a minute or 5 to unpack all this
July 29, 2023
If you're a fantasy fan looking for a book to get you out of a slump (or an action-packed read that will truly engross you) this one should definitely be on your radar. It's fast-paced, deftly written, well-developed and twisty all the way through.
The three main characters (an exiled princess, an apprentice midwife and a talented blacksmith) are all morally grey and completely different, and it is the war going on around them, the secrets being kept by those in power and their own personal losses and grievances that draw them into each others paths. None of their stories are easy and each exemplifies the hardship and rage of the female experience in a world where men hold all the power.
The pages are filled with court politics, intrigue, infiltration and espionage, POVs from both sides of the war and graphic descriptions of violence. However, they also show glimpses of determination, found family, developed skill, budding romance, new life and hope for a better, more peaceful world, which balance out the darkness well.
I love how clever the ending is, with everything coming together in a vengeful, dark but strangely satisfying way. It makes you think back over all the subtle clues that were being woven into the narrative from the start (and seriously respect the author as a result). This is the first book I've read by Bex Hogan but it certainly won't be the last. Her sharp writing style has completely won me over.
A big thank you to Team BKMRK and the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
The three main characters (an exiled princess, an apprentice midwife and a talented blacksmith) are all morally grey and completely different, and it is the war going on around them, the secrets being kept by those in power and their own personal losses and grievances that draw them into each others paths. None of their stories are easy and each exemplifies the hardship and rage of the female experience in a world where men hold all the power.
The pages are filled with court politics, intrigue, infiltration and espionage, POVs from both sides of the war and graphic descriptions of violence. However, they also show glimpses of determination, found family, developed skill, budding romance, new life and hope for a better, more peaceful world, which balance out the darkness well.
I love how clever the ending is, with everything coming together in a vengeful, dark but strangely satisfying way. It makes you think back over all the subtle clues that were being woven into the narrative from the start (and seriously respect the author as a result). This is the first book I've read by Bex Hogan but it certainly won't be the last. Her sharp writing style has completely won me over.
A big thank you to Team BKMRK and the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2023
Rating: 4.75/5⭐️
What a book! This is my first book from this author and it’s super super good! The writing is impeccable, the plot is waived in so many plot twists, the three women leading separated lives and little by little they become intertwined without knowing - it’s up to us, readers, to catch into the little clues and details to figure it out!
Princess Marza is terrifying and incredibly interesting to read about. You’ll find yourself eager to reach her chapters and to see what will happen next! And her ending was so wickedly thought out, I loved it - it was perfect for her character! And trust me I am eager to say what happen but I don’t want to ruin the realisation for anyone!
Rayn is such a fierce character! She’s inside a men’s world, defying all odds and become who she was always meant to be! This is not a romance book, but for the readers like me - that love a pinch of romance regardless of the book -, you’ll find it with Rayn! And she’s also the only reason I’m not giving this book a full 5⭐️. Again, I wish I could tell you all about it but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone!
Elena is kind and empathic and I love how far her quiet strength reaches. I think that she - above all them 3 - is the one that shows the most resilience and her strength is very encouraging.
This is a really great book and I can’t recommend it enough - you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
What a book! This is my first book from this author and it’s super super good! The writing is impeccable, the plot is waived in so many plot twists, the three women leading separated lives and little by little they become intertwined without knowing - it’s up to us, readers, to catch into the little clues and details to figure it out!
Princess Marza is terrifying and incredibly interesting to read about. You’ll find yourself eager to reach her chapters and to see what will happen next! And her ending was so wickedly thought out, I loved it - it was perfect for her character! And trust me I am eager to say what happen but I don’t want to ruin the realisation for anyone!
Rayn is such a fierce character! She’s inside a men’s world, defying all odds and become who she was always meant to be! This is not a romance book, but for the readers like me - that love a pinch of romance regardless of the book -, you’ll find it with Rayn! And she’s also the only reason I’m not giving this book a full 5⭐️. Again, I wish I could tell you all about it but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone!
Elena is kind and empathic and I love how far her quiet strength reaches. I think that she - above all them 3 - is the one that shows the most resilience and her strength is very encouraging.
This is a really great book and I can’t recommend it enough - you’ll be pleasantly surprised!
April 2, 2024
I liked the three storylines and knew they had ti link up eventually and it made sends for Rayn to search for Elena who found the baby but i didn’t expect Marzal to be giving information to the rebels despite her being cunning from the start. The twist at the end of Marzal being prophesied to kill the emperor not Rayn and poisoning Rayn for her own gain was unexpected though Marzal’s other actions weren’t even if her motives were also surprising.Even aspects like Rayn and Ilian’s backstories linking was surprising however their trope of liking each other was expected but it was still nice to read.
The works itself was interesting and i would have liked to experience it more but the book still discussed a lot in a short time, considering it is a stand alone.
I loved the theme of men underestimating women and the revenge plot was so interesting to uncover with the three female protagonists being strong for different reasons.
It talks about serious topics in a meaningful way whilst still being an engaging read with the fantasy elements like the ball, running as a fugitive and living in the palace.
The works itself was interesting and i would have liked to experience it more but the book still discussed a lot in a short time, considering it is a stand alone.
I loved the theme of men underestimating women and the revenge plot was so interesting to uncover with the three female protagonists being strong for different reasons.
It talks about serious topics in a meaningful way whilst still being an engaging read with the fantasy elements like the ball, running as a fugitive and living in the palace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2023
Omg whats just happened?!
I knew I was going to love this book as soon as I saw the proof designs but nothing could have prepared me for THAT.
I have so many feelings...
The last 150 or so pages I've been glued to the sofa and I havent budged an inch. The writing is so captivating and clever!
Rayn is a badass who quickly became my favourite within this story. Her quick wit and sarcasm reminds me of myself but shes a much cooler version.
Marzal is incredibly clever and knows what she wants. Shes meticulous and observant and definitely someone you want on your side.
Elena is the sweetest character who lacks the confidence our previous ladies possess but makes up for it with her gentle nature and kindness.
This book is dark and tense and there's twists round every corner but I promise you that you will be consumed by it.
** Thank you to the publisher for.sending me out a proof copy in exchange for an honest review **
What a ride.
I knew I was going to love this book as soon as I saw the proof designs but nothing could have prepared me for THAT.
I have so many feelings...
The last 150 or so pages I've been glued to the sofa and I havent budged an inch. The writing is so captivating and clever!
Rayn is a badass who quickly became my favourite within this story. Her quick wit and sarcasm reminds me of myself but shes a much cooler version.
Marzal is incredibly clever and knows what she wants. Shes meticulous and observant and definitely someone you want on your side.
Elena is the sweetest character who lacks the confidence our previous ladies possess but makes up for it with her gentle nature and kindness.
This book is dark and tense and there's twists round every corner but I promise you that you will be consumed by it.
** Thank you to the publisher for.sending me out a proof copy in exchange for an honest review **
What a ride.
August 17, 2023
THE PLOTTWIST?
Asså en av de bästa böckerna jag läst LÄTT
jag blev så stunned, asså det blev en sån stor jäkla plot bara de sista sidorna? Jag trodde jag hade koll på hela boken och de tre huvudkaraktärna men what? Hela boken ändrades i slutet 😭
Rekommenderar för alla att läsa! Jag har som inga ord
Asså en av de bästa böckerna jag läst LÄTT
jag blev så stunned, asså det blev en sån stor jäkla plot bara de sista sidorna? Jag trodde jag hade koll på hela boken och de tre huvudkaraktärna men what? Hela boken ändrades i slutet 😭
Rekommenderar för alla att läsa! Jag har som inga ord
September 2, 2024
did i figure out how it would end ? yes. did i still have a fun time reading this ? also yes. did it take me a year to finish ? also yes but like it wasn’t my fault
June 30, 2024
I think this is a a good book for readers just getting into reading but there are better YA books out there.
Very easy to read, not too complex and introduces you to tropes and themes that are further developed in other fantasy books.
My issue is that it’s YA but has some sexual content in here. I don’t think it’s very appropriate. It wasn’t too explicit so you could argue the way it was portrayed was age appropriate but I dunno, quite iffy and icky. I felt there was also disability and lgbtq+ rep that was quite tokenistic.
While I enjoyed reading about the 3 women and their POVs, I just thought everything was predictable, easy and undeveloped compared to other YA books.
The evil characters were very simple and 2 dimensional, they had no depth and was a cardboard image of evil. I wasn’t a fan of the ending relating to one particular character, but interesting the author took the plot this way.
Very easy to read, not too complex and introduces you to tropes and themes that are further developed in other fantasy books.
My issue is that it’s YA but has some sexual content in here. I don’t think it’s very appropriate. It wasn’t too explicit so you could argue the way it was portrayed was age appropriate but I dunno, quite iffy and icky. I felt there was also disability and lgbtq+ rep that was quite tokenistic.
While I enjoyed reading about the 3 women and their POVs, I just thought everything was predictable, easy and undeveloped compared to other YA books.
The evil characters were very simple and 2 dimensional, they had no depth and was a cardboard image of evil. I wasn’t a fan of the ending relating to one particular character, but interesting the author took the plot this way.
June 2, 2023
I received an eARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
BLACK HEAT is another brilliant book from Bex Hogan, which of course also shoves a dagger into your heart.
It is a deeply feminist tale of women fighting for change and power in the midst of a war and a deeply misogynistic society that doesn't think they can be clever or strong enough for the jobs they do. The book shows different types of strength in both traditionally feminine roles and in traditionally masculine ones. I also really loved that they're not all heroes - there are definite grey (and very dark grey!) areas to them, with their actions sometimes being underhand and downright ruthless.
Marzal was my favourite of the three. For one, her POV is the one with the political scheming as she manipulates everyone around her. Her character is also really cunning, which I love to read about. She is scheming and clever and absolutely going to smile and make everyone thing that the idea was theirs not hers.
Rayn and Elena are also a lot of fun, a contrast between the fiery, impulsive blacksmith and the quiet, considered midwife. Rayn is a stubborn rebel, throwing herself into situations in order to get her revenge. Meanwhile, Elena is more reserved, trying to save as many lives as she can, and the three women's stories intertwine.
And, given Bex wrote this book, your heart will be stabbed several time. This is a book stuffed with betrayal and not everything is going to end happily for the characters.
BLACK HEAT is another brilliant book from Bex Hogan, which of course also shoves a dagger into your heart.
It is a deeply feminist tale of women fighting for change and power in the midst of a war and a deeply misogynistic society that doesn't think they can be clever or strong enough for the jobs they do. The book shows different types of strength in both traditionally feminine roles and in traditionally masculine ones. I also really loved that they're not all heroes - there are definite grey (and very dark grey!) areas to them, with their actions sometimes being underhand and downright ruthless.
Marzal was my favourite of the three. For one, her POV is the one with the political scheming as she manipulates everyone around her. Her character is also really cunning, which I love to read about. She is scheming and clever and absolutely going to smile and make everyone thing that the idea was theirs not hers.
Rayn and Elena are also a lot of fun, a contrast between the fiery, impulsive blacksmith and the quiet, considered midwife. Rayn is a stubborn rebel, throwing herself into situations in order to get her revenge. Meanwhile, Elena is more reserved, trying to save as many lives as she can, and the three women's stories intertwine.
And, given Bex wrote this book, your heart will be stabbed several time. This is a book stuffed with betrayal and not everything is going to end happily for the characters.
July 9, 2023
Thank you Hachette Children’s Group, Orion Children’s Books and Netgalley for the arc of Black Heat by Bex Hogan in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
I absolutely loved Bex Hogan’s Isle of Storm and Sorrow series and the news that Black Heat is due to be published in July triggered a must read. My hopes were high and I can truthfully say fulfilled.
Black Heat delivers a world in the midst of war, a blood thirsty Emperor determined to retain and increase his empire and power, and conquer his neighbour, irrespective of the cost to his land and more importantly people. Hogan delivers a true aging, terrorising despot and kingdoms of pain and suffering that all stem from him.
The story itself is told from the POVs of three distinct characters, a Princess, a midwife, and a blacksmith, each with their own theme, back story, arc and journey.
Marzal the Princess, finds herself transported to the Emperor’s palace as she reaches marriageable age. Elena, a young apprentice midwife finds her life suddenly changed by events beyond her control and Rayn, the blacksmith is fighting a war to avenge those taken from her. Each character is distinct and as their stories unfold, there are plots with plots that pull you further into the increasing trajectory and path of intrigue, love, war and deception.
This book is a fantastic read, I really didn’t want to put it down - full on, one more chapter syndrome! Hogan creates a steady start, delivering back stories and context, that gradually increases to a dizzying and climactic conclusion. Another fabulous book from Bex Hogan that will excite, intrigue and simultaneously break your heart!
I absolutely loved Bex Hogan’s Isle of Storm and Sorrow series and the news that Black Heat is due to be published in July triggered a must read. My hopes were high and I can truthfully say fulfilled.
Black Heat delivers a world in the midst of war, a blood thirsty Emperor determined to retain and increase his empire and power, and conquer his neighbour, irrespective of the cost to his land and more importantly people. Hogan delivers a true aging, terrorising despot and kingdoms of pain and suffering that all stem from him.
The story itself is told from the POVs of three distinct characters, a Princess, a midwife, and a blacksmith, each with their own theme, back story, arc and journey.
Marzal the Princess, finds herself transported to the Emperor’s palace as she reaches marriageable age. Elena, a young apprentice midwife finds her life suddenly changed by events beyond her control and Rayn, the blacksmith is fighting a war to avenge those taken from her. Each character is distinct and as their stories unfold, there are plots with plots that pull you further into the increasing trajectory and path of intrigue, love, war and deception.
This book is a fantastic read, I really didn’t want to put it down - full on, one more chapter syndrome! Hogan creates a steady start, delivering back stories and context, that gradually increases to a dizzying and climactic conclusion. Another fabulous book from Bex Hogan that will excite, intrigue and simultaneously break your heart!
March 10, 2024
This book is the perfect revenge thriller and I absolutely adored it. However, I mistakenly believed it to be a series and I am now bereft and devastated (for multiple reasons you will understand if you've read it).
In Black Heat we have three very different women, all with ulterior motives, troubled backgrounds and a quest for revenge. Each woman has their own voice, personality and storyline, ensuring you are invested in all three before their lives converge at the end, with shocking consequences.
What I loved is that each woman is unique; we have Marzal the Princess, Rayn the Blacksmith and Elena the Midwife. They've all seen terrible things, but they have come out of it stronger, determined to fight for what they believe is right and have their revenge on those who have wronged them.
Hogan does not shy away from trauma and brutality, but it's handled so well that it never feels glorified or underdone. We cannot help but root for these morally grey characters and cheer them on.
However, as someone who got Rayn in the quiz, I was a little upset with her naivety towards the end. Come on Rayn, you know better than that! That said, I did like the development of Marzal, who surprised me by her malice, although I approved wholeheartedly of her actions.
And no Bex, I still haven't forgiven you for what you did!
In Black Heat we have three very different women, all with ulterior motives, troubled backgrounds and a quest for revenge. Each woman has their own voice, personality and storyline, ensuring you are invested in all three before their lives converge at the end, with shocking consequences.
What I loved is that each woman is unique; we have Marzal the Princess, Rayn the Blacksmith and Elena the Midwife. They've all seen terrible things, but they have come out of it stronger, determined to fight for what they believe is right and have their revenge on those who have wronged them.
Hogan does not shy away from trauma and brutality, but it's handled so well that it never feels glorified or underdone. We cannot help but root for these morally grey characters and cheer them on.
However, as someone who got Rayn in the quiz, I was a little upset with her naivety towards the end. Come on Rayn, you know better than that! That said, I did like the development of Marzal, who surprised me by her malice, although I approved wholeheartedly of her actions.
And no Bex, I still haven't forgiven you for what you did!
January 31, 2024
this book deserves so much more attention
July 3, 2024
4 ⭐️
This book had a really good story and some great characters who each brought different (but equally important things) to the table. I loved hearing about Rayn and getting her story and character development. I thought she was really cool and definitely my favorite of the three. However, Elena was also just such a strong character with such an important story to tell. I loved that the three women and their voices were so different and the way they got woven together was beautiful. This was definitely the book's strongest asset.
Marzal was also a really interesting character, and while I enjoyed her cunning and the way she manipulated everyone around her, she was sometimes a bit... unrealistic. She was always in such control of her reactions, her face, everything, and it made sense for the most part, but "letting herself blush" or "allowing just one tear to escape" just gives her an unrealistic amount of control of natural bodily functions that are (mainly) out of our control. And then the way all men just threw themselves at her feet and instantly would do anything for her? I understand the comment on how the men just see her beauty and what they can gain from her (sex, power), and that they are easy to manipulate, it was just a bit much. It needed a little more time to be allowed to grow; we needed to see some more scenes between them first so it felt more natural.
And speaking of time... my main issue with this book is actually just that there isn't more of it. So you know, not the worst critique in the world. I just thought the plot and characters were so cool and I wanted more. I wanted more time to delve into the details of the different relationships throughout the story.
So all in all a great book with really cool characters! I enjoyed it so much, that I just wish it was a few hundred pages longer so I could have gotten even more of the things it did so well.
✨There is a silence in a library that doesn't exist anywhere else. A silence that is full of dust and parchment and knowledge, the collective sound of a thousand books holding their breath, just waiting for the moment they can release their words into the world.✨
✨It is strange how men believe us women to be riddled with weakness, but theirs can be exploited with only a few honeyed words.✨
✨I have everything I ever wished for. All it cost me was everything I had left.✨
This book had a really good story and some great characters who each brought different (but equally important things) to the table. I loved hearing about Rayn and getting her story and character development. I thought she was really cool and definitely my favorite of the three. However, Elena was also just such a strong character with such an important story to tell. I loved that the three women and their voices were so different and the way they got woven together was beautiful. This was definitely the book's strongest asset.
Marzal was also a really interesting character, and while I enjoyed her cunning and the way she manipulated everyone around her, she was sometimes a bit... unrealistic. She was always in such control of her reactions, her face, everything, and it made sense for the most part, but "letting herself blush" or "allowing just one tear to escape" just gives her an unrealistic amount of control of natural bodily functions that are (mainly) out of our control. And then the way all men just threw themselves at her feet and instantly would do anything for her? I understand the comment on how the men just see her beauty and what they can gain from her (sex, power), and that they are easy to manipulate, it was just a bit much. It needed a little more time to be allowed to grow; we needed to see some more scenes between them first so it felt more natural.
And speaking of time... my main issue with this book is actually just that there isn't more of it. So you know, not the worst critique in the world. I just thought the plot and characters were so cool and I wanted more. I wanted more time to delve into the details of the different relationships throughout the story.
So all in all a great book with really cool characters! I enjoyed it so much, that I just wish it was a few hundred pages longer so I could have gotten even more of the things it did so well.
✨There is a silence in a library that doesn't exist anywhere else. A silence that is full of dust and parchment and knowledge, the collective sound of a thousand books holding their breath, just waiting for the moment they can release their words into the world.✨
✨It is strange how men believe us women to be riddled with weakness, but theirs can be exploited with only a few honeyed words.✨
✨I have everything I ever wished for. All it cost me was everything I had left.✨
July 14, 2023
How do I write a review??!! I'm still trying to recover from the end of this book! *cries loudly!* A fast paced and dark Feminist revenge fantasy that will keep you turning the pages, needing to know what happens next from start to finish, this is not your typical fantasy book. It has so many twists and turns, it's more like a mystery/thriller. Its shocking, it's exciting, it's heart breaking, and downright brilliant at the same time. Gotta say it took me by surprise. I've never read a book by Bex Hogan before so I wasn't sure what to expect. It starts out with a bit of a Bridge Kingdom/Throne of Glass series vibe to it, but don't underestimate this book! it's not going to be what you expect as the story progresses - especially towards the end. Very clever, very well written.
Black Heat has a big cast of characters but is told from the perspective of the 3 main female characters: Marzal, Rayn and Elena. Each woman is from a totally different background, brought together by circumstances, a desire to end the war that's raging between their 2 countries, and also for revenge (of course!). Each of these women have their own chapters, their own story arc and development, their own strengths, their own motivations, each has a very different character, and each one is equally interesting to read about. The other thing these 3 have in common is how underestimated they are - especially by the men around them as the story takes place in a male dominated society where women have little say and are very undervalued. BIG MISTAKE for most of the guys (and some of the other women) in this book! these 3 women are waaay more than what they seem and some of the other characters are going to learn this the hard way!
The title "Black Heat" is spot on perfect. Rayn explains what it means when she challenges a man to touch a piece of iron he think is harmless: 'he hisses, quickly pulling his hand away. I smile to myself. I knew he wouldn't be able to resist. "it's black heat. The warning glow has gone, but it's still scorching. That it looks safe is what makes it so dangerous."' - just like the 3 leading ladies!
This isn't a "good Vs bad" type story either - there are also plenty of morally grey characters, some more so than others but I'm not giving you any spoilers!. Honesty if one of the characters didn't break my heart into a million pieces (how could you do this to me Bex!? can I demand a sequel where they make a surprise come back?) this would've been an easy 5 stars! I'm giving 4.5 because I am so not over what happened to that character.
Black Heat is a real page turner, I couldn't put it down, all I can say is go read it!
Black Heat has a big cast of characters but is told from the perspective of the 3 main female characters: Marzal, Rayn and Elena. Each woman is from a totally different background, brought together by circumstances, a desire to end the war that's raging between their 2 countries, and also for revenge (of course!). Each of these women have their own chapters, their own story arc and development, their own strengths, their own motivations, each has a very different character, and each one is equally interesting to read about. The other thing these 3 have in common is how underestimated they are - especially by the men around them as the story takes place in a male dominated society where women have little say and are very undervalued. BIG MISTAKE for most of the guys (and some of the other women) in this book! these 3 women are waaay more than what they seem and some of the other characters are going to learn this the hard way!
The title "Black Heat" is spot on perfect. Rayn explains what it means when she challenges a man to touch a piece of iron he think is harmless: 'he hisses, quickly pulling his hand away. I smile to myself. I knew he wouldn't be able to resist. "it's black heat. The warning glow has gone, but it's still scorching. That it looks safe is what makes it so dangerous."' - just like the 3 leading ladies!
This isn't a "good Vs bad" type story either - there are also plenty of morally grey characters, some more so than others but I'm not giving you any spoilers!. Honesty if one of the characters didn't break my heart into a million pieces (how could you do this to me Bex!? can I demand a sequel where they make a surprise come back?) this would've been an easy 5 stars! I'm giving 4.5 because I am so not over what happened to that character.
Black Heat is a real page turner, I couldn't put it down, all I can say is go read it!
January 30, 2024
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Unsupervised in a Bookstore
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My absolute favourite book of 2023, Black Heat completely consumed me. Three strong female leads with very different lives, all affected by – and contributing to – a war they have been powerless to prevent. What do the princess, the blacksmith and the midwife have in common, and how will their individual actions shape their common goals?
I loved every part of this book. The three women have different motives and different positions in society, and each brings a different type of strength to the story. Marzal, the princess, searches for ways to survive and protect herself in a royal court where everyone is playing dangerous games, and no one can be trusted. Rayn, the blacksmith, seeks revenge for the deaths of her family while negotiating her own survival on a battlefield dominated by dangerous men. Elena, the apprentice midwife, must trust in her abilities and find a way to protect herself and the secret she carries.
Their stories, while told in individual strands, all play essential roles in the search for peace in a war-torn country – and in the need for revenge.
The world-building is fantastic. Telling the story from three points of view, three locations, and three utterly different social positions allows the author to paint a comprehensive picture of the setting without infodumping or excessive description. We see what we need to see, and the different points of view allow the reader to witness the war and its effects, from the palace to the battlefield, and the homes of the people caught up in the fighting.
This isn't a romance. This isn't a story about men, or women chasing men. This is a story about female strength and perseverance in the face of a war, and a political struggle in which they have no part. Men – good and bad – appear in the story, but the focus is always on Marzal, Rayn, and Elena, and the choices they make for survival, peace, and revenge.
Did I mention that I love this book? It's an absolute treat to read. If you enjoy strong female leads, dangerous plots and dangerous secrets, and a satisfying dose of revenge – what are you waiting for?
My absolute favourite book of 2023, Black Heat completely consumed me. Three strong female leads with very different lives, all affected by – and contributing to – a war they have been powerless to prevent. What do the princess, the blacksmith and the midwife have in common, and how will their individual actions shape their common goals?
I loved every part of this book. The three women have different motives and different positions in society, and each brings a different type of strength to the story. Marzal, the princess, searches for ways to survive and protect herself in a royal court where everyone is playing dangerous games, and no one can be trusted. Rayn, the blacksmith, seeks revenge for the deaths of her family while negotiating her own survival on a battlefield dominated by dangerous men. Elena, the apprentice midwife, must trust in her abilities and find a way to protect herself and the secret she carries.
Their stories, while told in individual strands, all play essential roles in the search for peace in a war-torn country – and in the need for revenge.
The world-building is fantastic. Telling the story from three points of view, three locations, and three utterly different social positions allows the author to paint a comprehensive picture of the setting without infodumping or excessive description. We see what we need to see, and the different points of view allow the reader to witness the war and its effects, from the palace to the battlefield, and the homes of the people caught up in the fighting.
This isn't a romance. This isn't a story about men, or women chasing men. This is a story about female strength and perseverance in the face of a war, and a political struggle in which they have no part. Men – good and bad – appear in the story, but the focus is always on Marzal, Rayn, and Elena, and the choices they make for survival, peace, and revenge.
Did I mention that I love this book? It's an absolute treat to read. If you enjoy strong female leads, dangerous plots and dangerous secrets, and a satisfying dose of revenge – what are you waiting for?
November 23, 2023
christ, where do i even start? i fucking loved this book. i read the back in waterstones and immediately knew that i’d love it. like, the whole book is about three women, that alone made me buy it, but the way i went through THREE! (3) sets of orange tabs to mark all the badass scenes that these women had? like, i don’t even really tab that much compared to what i’ve seen, and i went through nearly all my orange tabs, that’s how many there were. anyways, i should actually write a review on the book itself instead of yapping:
so, the three main characters/ povs are:
marzal: the HBIC herself. when i first started reading she IMMEDIATELY gave me serious jude darte/fang runin vibes. and there is NOTHING i love more than morally grey women. women who are genuinely powerful AND she is without the horrifying curse of a male significant other that ‘fixes’ her. without spoiling, the end absolutely shocked me. i was GOBSMACKED. my jaw was unhinged and in the BASEMENT. that’s how shocked i was. anyways, she got the ending she deserved. stan marzal for clear skin.
next we have rayn:
she, unfortunately had the curse of a male significant other, but i actually enjoyed him? their relationship wasn’t the type to make me cringe every other page like most, but she deserved better. that’s all. i’m kinda mad at her ending. it was not what i wanted for her but, hey! we can’t always get what we want!
finally we have elena:
i initially wasn’t sold on her because i’m a woman who genuinely doesn’t like the ‘kid trope’ so i didn’t really click with her like i did marzal and rayn, but she was a badass in her own right, i feel that her ending fitted her character completely and i’m not mad about it.
another character that deserves a mention simply because i loved her: the empress. sabine my underrated queen i love you and i wish you the best.
seriously, read this book. you will NOT regret it.
so, the three main characters/ povs are:
marzal: the HBIC herself. when i first started reading she IMMEDIATELY gave me serious jude darte/fang runin vibes. and there is NOTHING i love more than morally grey women. women who are genuinely powerful AND she is without the horrifying curse of a male significant other that ‘fixes’ her. without spoiling, the end absolutely shocked me. i was GOBSMACKED. my jaw was unhinged and in the BASEMENT. that’s how shocked i was. anyways, she got the ending she deserved. stan marzal for clear skin.
next we have rayn:
she, unfortunately had the curse of a male significant other, but i actually enjoyed him? their relationship wasn’t the type to make me cringe every other page like most, but she deserved better. that’s all. i’m kinda mad at her ending. it was not what i wanted for her but, hey! we can’t always get what we want!
finally we have elena:
i initially wasn’t sold on her because i’m a woman who genuinely doesn’t like the ‘kid trope’ so i didn’t really click with her like i did marzal and rayn, but she was a badass in her own right, i feel that her ending fitted her character completely and i’m not mad about it.
another character that deserves a mention simply because i loved her: the empress. sabine my underrated queen i love you and i wish you the best.
seriously, read this book. you will NOT regret it.
August 6, 2023
Oh. My. God. What wouldn’t I do to read this book for the first time all over again? From start to end, Bex Hogan had my emotions fluctuating in all sorts of directions: fascinated, horrified, proud, fulfilled. Having never read her books before, I would 100% recommend this to be a great place to start, especially for YA fantasy readers who find pleasure in the downfall of misogyny. It was so satisfying to see how women from different walks of life share one common trait: being constantly underestimated regardless of their intelligence and skills, solely because of their gender. Hogan effectively highlights this throughout the various perspectives and the repeated disrespect they all face (of course, without failing to acknowledge how they confront it).
I can’t possibly choose a favourite character but the last 20 pages or so were VERY unexpected, and that sort of rules out who I can no longer root for without it feeling bittersweet for her cruel actions, even though they were justified…sort of. ( BEX..YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID!!!!! but it’s a bit of a relief to see that a lot of other readers felt the same way and it’s not just me finding nitty gritties to complain about ahaha). Regardless, Marzal, Rayn and Elena all went through undeserved suffering, costing them their loved ones in one way or another, and we love to see the revenge plot unfold before us, showcasing how truly underrated sisterhood is. The real world can learn much about the political conflicts and its social consequences between Naperone and Eron, so it’d be an injustice to Hogan to say this book is only really for women, when everyone can pick up a lesson or two from this masterpiece.
I can’t possibly choose a favourite character but the last 20 pages or so were VERY unexpected, and that sort of rules out who I can no longer root for without it feeling bittersweet for her cruel actions, even though they were justified…sort of. ( BEX..YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID!!!!! but it’s a bit of a relief to see that a lot of other readers felt the same way and it’s not just me finding nitty gritties to complain about ahaha). Regardless, Marzal, Rayn and Elena all went through undeserved suffering, costing them their loved ones in one way or another, and we love to see the revenge plot unfold before us, showcasing how truly underrated sisterhood is. The real world can learn much about the political conflicts and its social consequences between Naperone and Eron, so it’d be an injustice to Hogan to say this book is only really for women, when everyone can pick up a lesson or two from this masterpiece.
October 19, 2023
First things first. The lead characters are great, with distinct voices each, and the first two-thirds of the book runs really well. Unfortunately all the antagonists are one-dimensional cyphers, especially the evil emperor, but it's so enjoyable spending time with the lead characters that it doesn't matter too much.
Then the three characters meet, and the wheels come off. The ending is so rushed, you wonder if it was dashed off on the morning of a deadline to get something out. The fact of them meeting at all is the most monumental badly-constructed coincidence. The plot twist around the emperor's death (it's not exactly a spoiler that the evil emperor dies in a fantasy novel!) is signposted a million miles away. And the extra twist on top of that isn't a "morally grey" point as the author I think suggests, it's a non-sequitur which renders one-third of the book pointless.
The blurb makes claims about "shades of grey, not black and white", but honestly the book doesn't go there at all. Antagonists are all 100% evil, and two of the three leads are 100% good. The other one at best is as good as Travis Bickle, just with motivation kept from the reader until the end.
It's not a bad book, it's just disappointing that the build-up to the ending is so badly squandered. Be prepared to feel let down by that.
Then the three characters meet, and the wheels come off. The ending is so rushed, you wonder if it was dashed off on the morning of a deadline to get something out. The fact of them meeting at all is the most monumental badly-constructed coincidence. The plot twist around the emperor's death (it's not exactly a spoiler that the evil emperor dies in a fantasy novel!) is signposted a million miles away. And the extra twist on top of that isn't a "morally grey" point as the author I think suggests, it's a non-sequitur which renders one-third of the book pointless.
The blurb makes claims about "shades of grey, not black and white", but honestly the book doesn't go there at all. Antagonists are all 100% evil, and two of the three leads are 100% good. The other one at best is as good as Travis Bickle, just with motivation kept from the reader until the end.
It's not a bad book, it's just disappointing that the build-up to the ending is so badly squandered. Be prepared to feel let down by that.
July 29, 2023
I was kindly sent an ARC of this book in return for a honest review.
Black Heat had everything I wanted in a fantasy book & more. Honestly, nobody could've prepared me for how much I was going to love this book - I devoured it.
The story follows three women (a princess, a midwife & a blacksmith) who're all exceptionally strong-willed & talented. There's no room for messing around, these women know exactly what they're doing & they do it to utter perfection.
Whilst reading the book, you're introduced to each of them through their own POV's & follow their individual stories. The structure was very reminiscent of Throne of Glass where you have multiple POV's, running alongside one another, at different positions on the map, that then converge into one at the end. And let me just say, this was done brilliantly. I was fully invested in every single story & couldn't wait to see how their paths crossed.
And when they did eventually cross...my god. This book was full of twists & turns, the way their paths aligned unravelled perfectly & the ending had me sideswiped - SO GOOD!
If you love strong (& a little unhinged) female leads, high stakes & a sprinkling of romance, you will absolutely adore this book. The way it takes off & wraps up is just amazing; with no room for any pacing issues with the plot. I haven't stopped thinking about this book since I finished it, 10/10 would highly recommend.
Black Heat had everything I wanted in a fantasy book & more. Honestly, nobody could've prepared me for how much I was going to love this book - I devoured it.
The story follows three women (a princess, a midwife & a blacksmith) who're all exceptionally strong-willed & talented. There's no room for messing around, these women know exactly what they're doing & they do it to utter perfection.
Whilst reading the book, you're introduced to each of them through their own POV's & follow their individual stories. The structure was very reminiscent of Throne of Glass where you have multiple POV's, running alongside one another, at different positions on the map, that then converge into one at the end. And let me just say, this was done brilliantly. I was fully invested in every single story & couldn't wait to see how their paths crossed.
And when they did eventually cross...my god. This book was full of twists & turns, the way their paths aligned unravelled perfectly & the ending had me sideswiped - SO GOOD!
If you love strong (& a little unhinged) female leads, high stakes & a sprinkling of romance, you will absolutely adore this book. The way it takes off & wraps up is just amazing; with no room for any pacing issues with the plot. I haven't stopped thinking about this book since I finished it, 10/10 would highly recommend.
October 23, 2024
3.75 out of ten
Loved this book, full of girl power and had an amazing plot, like I devoured this book in two days.
Two of the main characters were great, brave and strong, and also were different, Elena was more kind and caring and emotionally strong, and Rayn was brave and physically strong "
Loved this book, full of girl power and had an amazing plot, like I devoured this book in two days.
Two of the main characters were great, brave and strong, and also were different, Elena was more kind and caring and emotionally strong, and Rayn was brave and physically strong "
July 19, 2023
Black Heat is the start of an all new YA fantasy series from Isles of Storm and Sorrow author Bex Hogan. The story follows three young women – Marzal, the daughter of the Emperor who has spent many years living in a convent and has now returned to take her place at court. Rayn, a blacksmith looking to uncover the truth surrounding the death of her family and take vengeance against those who harmed them, and Elena, a midwife tasked with protecting a secret. Each woman must do all they can to protect those they care about and help their country survive a deadly war.
I really loved Bex Hogan’s Viper so I was intrigued to see whether I would be as engrossed by Black Heat. This story is so captivating, so gripping and pretty fast paced, so I ended up racing through this book in a couple of days. Hogan has a really engaging writing style and I loved that there were lots of twists in the story. It also went places I did not expect. I find myself reading less YA fantasy these days because I often find them a bit predictable, but Black Heat is anything but. The ending of the story had me on the edge of my seat and I am counting down the days until the release of the next book in the series.
The world is really interesting and I really enjoyed the political scheming going on in this story. The world building is solid and I liked getting to see people on both sides of the conflict. Our three main characters are all so different and surprisingly I adored them all. If I had to choose I think Marzal is my favourite, I was so fascinated by the way she manipulates and schemes to get what she wants. Rayn is a fierce and determined character, she will stop at nothing to get her revenge and I loved how strong she was. Elena’s chapters were equally compelling, she is strong and determined to do what’s right, even when she’s scared or uncertain.
Black Heat is a gripping, feminist revenge fantasy and one I could not put down. If you’re looking for a book that’s dark, compelling with fascinating complex characters, then Black Heat is one you will not want to miss.
I really loved Bex Hogan’s Viper so I was intrigued to see whether I would be as engrossed by Black Heat. This story is so captivating, so gripping and pretty fast paced, so I ended up racing through this book in a couple of days. Hogan has a really engaging writing style and I loved that there were lots of twists in the story. It also went places I did not expect. I find myself reading less YA fantasy these days because I often find them a bit predictable, but Black Heat is anything but. The ending of the story had me on the edge of my seat and I am counting down the days until the release of the next book in the series.
The world is really interesting and I really enjoyed the political scheming going on in this story. The world building is solid and I liked getting to see people on both sides of the conflict. Our three main characters are all so different and surprisingly I adored them all. If I had to choose I think Marzal is my favourite, I was so fascinated by the way she manipulates and schemes to get what she wants. Rayn is a fierce and determined character, she will stop at nothing to get her revenge and I loved how strong she was. Elena’s chapters were equally compelling, she is strong and determined to do what’s right, even when she’s scared or uncertain.
Black Heat is a gripping, feminist revenge fantasy and one I could not put down. If you’re looking for a book that’s dark, compelling with fascinating complex characters, then Black Heat is one you will not want to miss.
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