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Forged #1

Forged of Fire

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Legends are not born. They are forged of fire...

Long revered as one of the realm's most lethal warriors, Ashdon LaGoryen now prefers a solitary life. Far removed from his volatile past, he has no interest in returning to the station of his royal birth. But when an ancient prophecy comes to light at the onset of war, he finds himself reluctantly dragged back into the world of his ancestral bloodline - House of the Dragon.

Twenty-one-year-old Kielyn Allister just wants to finish art school, but when she is threatened on campus one night, all her plans go up in smoke. Literally. She wakes to find herself surrounded by creatures found only in storybooks. And the most dangerous of them all, an alluring vampire with the ability to control fire, is to be her new teacher. Her king.

And her mate...

As Kielyn and Ashdon adapt to their new roles, their feelings toward each other grow from begrudging obligation to scorching passion. But there are more sinister forces at play, and an ancient legend seeks to divide them. They must risk everything if their love and the realms - human and immortal alike - are to survive.

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First published February 27, 2016

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1567 people want to read

About the author

Stacy Von Haegert

8 books148 followers

Stacy Von Haegert is the International Bestselling Author of two genres: Historical Romance (the White Rose trilogy, and Lords), and Dark-Fantasy Romance (Forged)

Stacy lives in historic downtown Franklin TN with her hubby, son, calico cat, and Belgian Tervuren, where she writes by day and teaches ballroom dance in the evenings. She is obsessed with old houses, good literature, and boogie boarding.

https://linktr.ee/stacyvonhaegertlink...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
Profile Image for Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads).
776 reviews1,267 followers
December 8, 2022
Excellent adult fantasy romance!!! I loved not only the fabulous writing but these characters were awesome!! Stacy Von Haegert is a fabulous storyteller who pulls you into whatever world she's writing about with detailed scences and deep and beautiful interactions with not only the main characters but intriguing secondly ones as well.Forged Of Fire is a adult fantasy romance with all kinds of awesome mythical creatures like dragons,angels,vampires,fae and elemental talents with gifts and powers of earth,wind, fire and water. And one of the most feared and legendary immortals of all Ashdon LaGoryen a fire lord from the house of dragon and Ushum bloodline known for their great power, and if that wasn't enough he was forced to become a vampire by the sick and twisted Dante the lord of Gerra. Ashdon spent many years of torture and pain as his hostage waiting for a chance to escape but he did it and came at a high price of hiding under the radar and moving constantly and with his companion and close friend Marzalla together they've stayed one step ahead but when Lord Walter Bane contacts Ash and tells him of a chosen that's been found and that the other elements are banding together to take back power and bring Dante down it brings the dragon lord out of hiding. When Ash meets Kieyln he knows instantly she's his mate but is she strong enough to fulfill the ancient prophecy that says the chosen will give birth to a hybrid that will rule all the elements and wage war against Dante. The chemistry between Ash and Kielyn is steamy hot and very erotic and especially when he lets his dragon loose!!!!! Their isn't anything soft and sweet about this coupling its straight up primal fucking just with love attached!!! And it just wasn't Ash I fell in love with but archangel Stefen with his handsome perfection and suave and boyish charm he is a real big heartbreaker too and while I'm not much of a angel lover unless their fallen😂 Stefen has me hooked and between the wings and fangs I'm slayed! I need to give a shout out to not only Kielyn but Marzalla both are bad ass bitches!!! I love strong smart women and these two are totally fearless !!!! And if you like to root for villains who aren't just smart but deadly
Ash's half sister Katarra and Dante's daughter is a scary psycho bitch with no feelings or remorse and will kill her brother's and anyone else that gets in her way to the throne. This tale has passion,obsession, love and betrayal and loads of action will characters you won't soon forget. And a very climactic ending that had me on the edge of my seat! And had me almost in tears but luckily for Stacy I didn't have to freak out on her, but it was close😂 I didn't want it to end!
But the last few pages say that this isn't over and a secret twist is coming for Ashton and the others and it promises to be another epic read !!!! Can't wait Forged by Fate out in 2023!
Until next time Luv's💕💋
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
2,945 reviews2,673 followers
May 25, 2023
Original story!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙🤎💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌏🌍🌍🌏
Character development: 😠☺️😋🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration

The Hero: Ashdon - he is an immortal vampire from the house of Dragon and has lived more than 1200 years. He is a fire dancer, he possessed the ability to manipulate his bloodlines sacred element. He flew under the radar of those that would hunt him. His assistant and best friend, Marzala, is an air dancer whom Ash trained. He is a wealthy developer who needs someone to sell his operations to when his connections start to age and he does not. He creates new corporations, raises them up and then sells them before moving on.

The Story: A blood slave comes to see Ashdon to tell of the fact that Dante is raising an army to kill all elemental dancers that were turned because a chosen one has been born, an elemental dancer with the blood of both water and fire. The man says the chosen one has the name of Ashdon’s mother Kielyndrian. He says her hair is the color of flames and her eyes the color of amber, and she is protected by an angel and lives in New Orleans.

The heroine: Kielyn - she is unaware of her powers though the angel following her sees episodes where they have come to pass. He sees an immortal vampire following her as well. The angel doesn’t understand how she is still alive with her penchant for accidents and how she is often oblivious of everything going on around her. She got a full art scholarship to a prestigious university and her art means everything to her.

Ash remembers back when he was young and Dante (a.k.a. Lucifer) came and waged war. Ash was forced into Dante’s army, his father killed in battle and his mother was forced to marry Dante with who she had a daughter that Ash never met. He was made a vampire by Dante and most of his memories were removed as well. He now figures that he will be training the chosen one.

This book was told from multiple points of view and was narrated via solo narration by Troy Duran. He is one of my favorite narrators with a deep sexy voice and he shows a lot of emotion through his voice. I can listen to him all day and he does a great job on this book. There were parts of this book I didn’t like, especially Dante’s obsession with Ashdon, but the action is great and the story is a good one.

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Profile Image for Laurens.Little.Library.
546 reviews4,023 followers
April 25, 2023
DNF at 55%

This is a rather unique situation for a DNF. Normally, my DNFs are novels which I have strong negative feelings toward. That is not the case with Forged of Fire.

It’s just not worth continuing. Here’s why:

• Insta-love is always a hard sell, and the author is unsuccessful in making me believe these two characters care about one another.

• There’s a lot of sexual violence or reference to past sexual violence and it’s handled rather clumsily.

• When I look specifically at the craft of the overall writing, I’m left with phrases like “amateurish” and “promising idea that fell apart on the execution”

• Our FMC is a literal blushing virgin of 20 years old and her mate is ancient. Didn’t we all agree that we’re sick of this?

• Look closely and boy oh boy are there plot holes

Pass.
Profile Image for Carmen Torres.
874 reviews23 followers
June 20, 2017
I'm new to Ms.Von Haegert work. This book is so engaging. The characters are well written. The story flows beautifully. This is a must read.
Profile Image for Cat Imb || The Reading Cat ||.
418 reviews42 followers
July 20, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Stacy Von Haegert!

This was the first novel I read by Von Haegert, and I have got to say that I was extremely impressed. This book was fantastical, captivating, and sexy with some dark aspects. You'd think elemental benders, vampires, angels and shifters in one book would make for a terrible mixed mess, however, for some reason it works. Oh, I forgot to mention that there is also an Oracle. So yeah, a giant meli-melo.

Von Haegert was able to connect all of the mythical creatures and character's in a simple and effective way. I don't mean to say that the world she created is simple, what I'm saying is that she effectively and concisely explained it in the novel in such a way that it did not confuse the reader at any point.

I think what stands out most for me is how fluid and cohesive the story is. It read really smoothly without a single bump in the plot (I mean figuratively, cause you guys will see).

This may have been my first Von Haegert book, but it definitely will not be my last!
Profile Image for Lisa.
281 reviews
March 7, 2016
I was introduced to this book via a FB page for people who like to read paranormal fiction. When I read the description, I thought “Wow… all of that’s going on? Seems pretty epic”. And it definitely was! In the world of Forged of Fire, there are people who are “benders” able to bend/use a natural element (earth, wind, fire, and water). Many of these benders were captured and turned into vampires at the hands of Dante, or as we know him as the devil. Now present day, a prophecy is coming to fruition. There is a bender able to wield two elements. This woman is fated to mate with a bender of noble heritage, and their child can unite the realms. But of course, there are those who seek to stop this union, and in doing so war is on the horizon.

That’s as detailed as I can be without just flat out describing the book in its entirety. So many supernatural beings are in the mix – elemental benders, vampires, angels, dragons (my fave!). We’re introduced to several characters, the main ones being Ash (noble fire bender turned vampire), Stefan (angel), Kielyn (a human, but unknowingly the bender who can wield two elements), and Zander – the son of Dante. We’re told the story through each of these people’s points of view. At first, it was somewhat confusing, but as the story progressed it definitely melded together and made sense.

The story itself – wow! Just wow! The world-building was amazing, and with so many things going on, one would think it could get confusing, but the author does a good job of keeping up with the details. And as the description warns, this story is not for younger readers. It can be very dark at times, but in this world, dark and terrible things do happen. There is romance between a few characters, but it’s not sunshine and rainbows; there is confusion and hurt, and it’s sometimes brutal. But the relationships among the characters are key and draws you in. I had to force myself to put the book down this past Saturday night, lest I stay up until 3 in the morning to finish. I was just completely engrossed with this story. Forged of Fire is a book I would definitely recommend to readers of paranormal/fantasy. I will anxiously await the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Kerry.
26 reviews
April 20, 2016
This is a fantastic book! In fact, love it so much I'm rereading again, because the first time through was just too fast and a second more leisurely way is needed. As a lover of paranormal fiction and romance, I was expecting a lot and this book has delivered in spades. It's fast pace but not so much that the story gets left behind. The twists and turns as well as the unique world view (hint...demons and vampires, oh my!) makes Forged of Fire a real pleasure to read. At the heart is a story of a man struggling with himself, add in a woman that challenges him on every level and throw in an angel that pushes his buttons and an arch nemesis you will hate and even cheer for (well, one of them, at least) for the finale of this excellent book. While this book has a decided dark tone to it, the romance and friendship bonds that form between the main players keeps it from being too dark. The ending...Oh.My.Goodness...you just have to read it!

What can I say about the hero? I want more Ash!
What can I say about the heroine? I wish I was Kielyn!
Profile Image for Robin Greenhalgh.
10 reviews2 followers
Read
March 8, 2016
As a lover of all things shifter, this author did not disappoint! The tale of how the two main characters were bound together was wrought with wondrous complications promising to keep it a page-turner. The author brings forth from them, arrogance, strength, sexy-as-hell visuals and surprisingly resilient abilities. Both willing to risk all for the ones they love; in fact this love brings about a surprise shift that is virtually extinct in their world. The drama is driven by a prophesy that has thrust them together and right from the beginning seems no more than a matter of convenience...a political maneuver for power. However the fates seem to have more in store for them as they pull together to fight mortal's most feared enemy...the devil himself! The characters are faced with many challenges which the author showcases seamlessly throughout. The reader's own views will be brought to the forefront regarding their own perceptions of good vs evil and heaven vs hell, as they get sucked into this amazing tale. The author effortlessly carries the reader along through an adventure that will leave them furiously turning pages wanting more. The reader finds them-self driven to the ending fiercely wondering if this couple (and their well-developed secondary characters) will have the ability together to once and for all defeat this sadistic, ungodly evil....now you just have to go read and find out for yourself!! :)
84 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2017

I love to find books that are capturing to the eye and Forged of Fire is definitely one that got my attention to want to read. The author takes paranormal to a whole new level you see various of paranormal figures in this edge in your seat novel. I hate spoilers so I won't give any. The details given is enough to keep it flowing properly and keep the readers attention at all times. She understands that as a reader we want to have a constant flow in the story and not blank spots. This was actually one of the key things I look for when reading. Will it keep me turning pages? Yes. Does it have the proper genre? In this I will have to say yes again. Trust me you don't want to think a book is one and then it is actually another type. The author mixes good vs evil in this page turner with a touch of romance that possibly shouldn't be. I can't wait to start reading the second book and see what the author has in store for us next. I highly recommend this novel for anyone looking for a unique paranormal with a touch of romance. Looking for a summer read, take a seat and get ready to be amazed at what this novel has in store for you. I promise you won't regret it.
Profile Image for Jodie Scott.
236 reviews6 followers
March 20, 2017

Forged of fire

I love books that are based on mythical legends so I jumped at the chance for this book. The book is great and well thought out however I did find some parts to be somewhat lacking or rather they felt like the author was just trying to make the book longer.

There are a mass array of creatures and beings within these pages and the twists come thick and fast I love the way all the beings are slowly melded together. It is clear a great deal of research went into this book and I can assure you it pays off well.

The writing style is good with great flow and no plot holes that I could see. I can be a little difficult to follow at times but that's just due to the mass amount of mini story lines going on that all lead to the main one so it does all become clear in the end.

All in I thoroughly enjoyed the story and dived straight into book two as soon as I was done! There is a cliff hanger at the end but fear not because book 2 will be available by the time I post these reviews.

4 stars from me!
Profile Image for Julie.
7 reviews
March 11, 2016
I have been a fan of Ms Von Haegert's White Rose trilogy for some time now and was honestly unsure how much I would enjoy her venture into the paranormal genre but I must say that I was extremely pleasantly surprised. Forged of Fire was fast moving, filled with both likeable heroes and despicable villains and a personally could not wait to the end to see how things would turn out. She has put a new twist on the same old vampire story and made it new and exciting again and I cannot wait for the next installment.

Oh, and did I mention how HOT (pardon the pun) Ash is?? Ladies... You will love this one!
Profile Image for Tamara Harrington.
529 reviews29 followers
February 12, 2017
This is my first time reading a book by Stacy and I absolutely loved it!! There is so much going on that I could not put this book down, even if I tried. There are Angels, Dragons, Oracles, Vampires and a love story to boot! This novel will keep you on the edge of our seat and wanting more. I am seriously hoping that there will be another book and soon ;)
Profile Image for Jessica Byrd.
86 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2016
Fantastic!

Forged of Fire was a fantastic read that kept my pages turning. I couldn't stop reading it! So many twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. I thought it was a fantastic tale with all my paranormal favorites!
23 reviews
May 31, 2023
This isn't going to be a glowing review. However, if you're a fan of amelia hutchins you'll likely love this book.

The reason I thought I would enjoy the book is fated mates , vampires and dragons.dont get me wrong they're there.

The story starts following every other character, but kielyn and everything about kielyn is shallow, with the emotional range of a teaspoon and just goes along with everything and frustratingly allows the love interest to punish her and scold her as if she is a toddler...then the love interest quickly demands loyalty from keilyn without showing any reason that allows for respect and loyalty and trust on Ash part.

I feel like I was gaslit 70% of the way with varying degrees of abuse and sexual assault and the way every male character thinks about females is to put bluntly disgusting.

This isn't love/ romance this is a toxic relationship that is based on the FMC being submissive and meeting the MMC "needs"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jaynelle Dessirae.
231 reviews10 followers
December 11, 2022
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for my review.

This book is an elemental magic, fated mates story with dragons and angels. I mean what more can you really ask for. If you enjoy high fantasy with a vengeful bad guy who can't seem to get over the past this is the book for you.

The female main character, Kieyln is an Art student in New Orleans, little does she know that she is the answer to a prophecy. When she accidentally kills three men that try to assault her, the world she new is thrown into chaos.

Ash has been in hiding for over a 1000 years, since he escaped Dante and the Hell, literally, that he was living in. He is a fire elemental and a vampire- but is he also something more?

When Kielyn meets Ash- she has to learn about the new world she is a part of and find out that she has a mate in about 48 hours, if she thought that was intense... well let's just say that it's about to get more so.

This book was a fun and fast paced New Adult Fantasy that I am excited to read more of. There was not a terrible cliffhanger which I appreciate because I don't have to stress too much about what is happening with the characters, for now at least. There is a little "spice" in the book but it is not super explicit in my opinion (I do really a lot of very explicit dark romance just as a reference for my spice level). I enjoyed that the side characters were well written and that I cared for them. I liked the relationship and how it morphed between Ash and Kielyn, and I really liked that "touch her and you die" vibes that Ash exudes.


Profile Image for Noelle Ousley.
369 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2025
This is a meh for me. It felt like reading a fantasy novel in summary form, and the whole point of the book was for the MFC to get pregnant with the chosen one? Not really my thing. The MFC and the MMC are mates and like totally in love after a week?? It was an easy read and I had a good-ish time but I don’t feel like I need to read the next book.
Profile Image for Jennie.
685 reviews48 followers
May 30, 2023
Gave this book 4 1/2⭐️ very enjoyable multiple point of you little dark little twisted gripping storyline can’t wait for book 2
Profile Image for Wendy.
697 reviews9 followers
December 6, 2022
Forged of Fire by Stacy Von Haegert is book 1 in this series. This is the first book I've ever read by this author, and I will say that I am hooked. I can't wait until the next book is released.

If you love fantasy, you will love this series. Ms. Haegert sets a beautiful scene. They are beautifully scenic and made my reading journey extremely colorful. There's tension and steam. The angst is real here.

Stacey has breathed new life into Angel's, dragons and Vampires. I highly recommend.
4 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2022
I was lucky to get an ARC for this book! The first in a new series diving into a magical world of vampires, dragons, faerie, angels and more.

I want to start with saying I do wish I had more time to get a feel for who each character really was at the beginning to really help cement what paths they would take and what actions may seem out of character. I like to be sucked into a world so fully that it feels real and I think having some more time in the minds of the characters or adding some extra details would've done this!

There's not a lot of world building. However, this tale has multiple POV's which really helps you get an over arching view of the world and add's details gradually. Slowly learning as you go, just as Kielyn(our FMC) did.

Each chapter engrained the characters in your heart and really had me rooting for them to win, escape, fight, etc...

At the beginning of the story I almost felt like I knew what would happen next. I thought ahh this might be predictable, I could see where this is heading and just as I would get slightly comfortable with what I thought I knew..Stacy threw in a loop that had me second guessing it all. Certainly a great set up for the next book.

Overall, I enjoyed the growth of this story and the characters who made it fun to read.
If you like diving into magical worlds with fated mates, found families, light world building and mild spice(this is based off my own spectrum, other readers opinions may vary), I definitely suggest trying this one out.



Profile Image for Melissa.
162 reviews2 followers
March 6, 2017
Wow !! This was such a fast paced, exciting read. There was suspense, intrigue, dragons, benders, angles, devil, vampires, and so much more. The characters are compelling and the story line keeps you intrigued right till the end. I highly recommend for anyone who likes paranormal reads. "I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book."
Profile Image for Kat⚔️.
149 reviews4 followers
January 6, 2024
Eh, good but cringey too

I loved the relationship between Ash and Kielyn. However, the whole Dante molesting Ash thing and being obsessed with him was really disturbing 😳 and cringy.👀like wtf😬I feel traumatized now from reading about the master evil 👿 villains, Dante, Zander, Tarrifa, and Thadeous and what they’ve all done to Ash and his family. Like totally disgusting.🤢 really hoping the other related stories get more positive?!😅😬
Profile Image for Courtnie-Gina Manning.
23 reviews1 follower
November 30, 2022
If you are looking for your next fantastic read this is deff the book for you. Vampires, angels, elemental magic it really hits the spot. This book follows a young woman named Kielyn, who is a collage art student. Her life gets turned upside down. This book is action packed and left me wanting for more, I cannot wait for book 2. I am floored by some of the things that happened I don't want to spoil anything for anyone. My heart almost beat out of my chest lol, and at the same time there was equally funny parts it was a wonderful balance. There is some spice if that is your thing but it isn't in your face, the plot is the main factor in this book

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received this book as an ARC and I couldn't be happier
Profile Image for Jillsbooknook.
832 reviews58 followers
July 28, 2023
3.5 -⭐⭐⭐💫


"It felt as if they had loved each other in numerous lives. Through numberless ages. Their story story was eternal."

Forged of Fire is the first novel in the new adult fantasy romance series, Forged, which follows the journey of Ashdon and Kielyn. Ashdon is an immortal warrior who has spend his life hiding. A royal by birth but one who rejects his lineage, he is faced with a choice when an ancient prophecies is brought to life thanks to a young woman who is destined for him.

Kielyn has lived a normal human life with the goal to finish art school...that is until she finds herself brought into a world of magic, vampires, and fate after she is attacked by creatures on her way home. In this new world, Kielyn is told she is the key to a new era for the world of magical beings (vampires, fae, elementals, angels, etc) and that she is must learn to control her newfound abilities with Ashdon, her new teacher...and mate. As the ties between them bind them closer and closer forces beyond their control seek to bring things to a ruin but failure is not an option when all they know and love is at risk...

This book had all the fun things I love in a quick fantasy read from brooding and scarred powerful warriors to a women unlocking strange powers, a fated mates tropes, and a looming prophecies that tie them together. Kielyn starts this book from a very naive perspective and is forced to grow up fast as she embraces these shadow like abilities. Meanwhile Ashdon is initially resistant to being forced to train this young innocent woman...until he sees her and realizes what she meant to him.

This is insta-love and insta-steam. Kielyn plays the swooning female interest and Ashdon the dominant and powerful male. Their union is meant to bring a child meant to unify the realm. Both characters initially are resigned to this fate but as time goes on they are drawn to each other.

The spice in this book is around a 3 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy peppers. The spice is dominant and quick to consume. I felt it was well done.

"She was the most glorious work of art he had ever laid eyes on. And Ash knew in that moment he would move the universe to see that smile again."

In terms of the story and world, I felt there is a lot of promise here with the war on the horizen and I love this idea of fate and prophecy tied in. Yet, the story itself focuses on a topic that I feel has become a little dated - that Kielyn's importance comes from the child she will bear in the future. The fact the Ashdon resigns himself to marrying her and having a child was a bit simplistic for me. At the same time, this was a book that was incredibly easy to devour in an afternoon. The pace keeps up and there is a good balance of banter, action, and tension. I would best describe this as a book to read when you're looking for vibes more than anything. I think as the story continues it would become more nuanced but for now it was a little messy but kept me going.

If you love possessive and powerful males, a woman new to magic, and a prophecy that binds them together this book is definitely something to check out!

Thank you to the author for a copt of this book to review!
Profile Image for Excessive~Reader.
201 reviews20 followers
January 19, 2017
***I wrote this as a complete spoiler free review***
First thing I’d like to say that I noticed there are no chapters in Forged of Fire, but I didn't. What grabbed my attention was the paragraph spacing. The story is told in a third person omniscient and each paragraph and every moment is spaced. This format did truly work for the story. Every page moved continuously smooth into the next. Stacy Von Haegert unique style of writing is the result of her screenplay background, thus giving character to the book right off the bat. It wasn't till a few pages in that I realized the narrator changed character focus and time, all the while without a chapter breaking it up. My oversight could also be due to the fact I was hooked on the story from the very first paragraph, and was superglued to it till the last word.
Forged of Fire creates a mythical world on earth, as well as other realms. The story begins with an enthralling occurrence in their history. Yet the reader is unaware of who this moment effects, besides the first character and the nameless children. It's the first puzzle piece I am given. The story continues at a comfortable fast pace and methodical each character is introduced and more mystical things about them and the others are revealed. I had a blast collecting names and tidbits then trying to puzzle them together only to find out there's another piece or two that belongs where another is placed. The story spreads so much of their past throughout the book I never felt overwhelmed, even with the new development of mythical and mythological names and dates such as who and what is a Fire-bender, Water-bender, Air-bender, earth-bender, vampire, devil or angel and dragon.
Stacy does a great job of sliding in surprises around every corner right up to the very last page. I had to stop trying to make a prediction of what will happen next.
I compared this book to some of Christina Dodds novels. Of course what's a romance novel without a hot guy, a damsel in distress and their budding romance? Even better a few hot guys, hell I didn't even care they were a distraction. Twice I had to reread a page to make sure I got whatever hidden meanings were written between the lines. I believe the Author is smart for doing it that way, because It insures I will read this book again and ask how did I miss that.
I truly loved this book, the mystery, the adventure. All the characters were highly developed so I got to feel what they were feeling. Given this is a romance I got lots of feelings and not always the warm ones or the hot and sexy ones. This story holds all types of characters such as the comical, the psychotic, the loyal friend, the longtime companion, the sexual, the unworthy, and the lovers.
I read this book in 2 days, and yes I recommend it! ❤
Profile Image for Leah.
225 reviews2 followers
February 24, 2017
OMGosh! This is normally not the genre I read but the cover actually called to me. I was asked if I would like a copy and I jumped at the chance. Yes, I WILL be purchasing more from Haegert! The characters in this story.... can I just say WOW? Some I loved to love and some I loved to hate and then there was one that just shocked the crap out of me when he went with a sharp turn left in the story. Never saw it coming! I had a hard time putting this thing down to do what my life was demanding outside of reading and it called to me the entire time I had to step away until I finally had a chance to pick it up again. Now, I find myself wishing time away just waiting for the next book Forged By Fate. Yes, this woman one clicked the pre-order button. HUGE smiles here.
Profile Image for Lori Myers.
73 reviews6 followers
March 11, 2016
This author has become one of my favorites. I greatly enjoyed reading this latest work by Ms. Von Haegert! Each book she puts out surpasses the last, as every good author should. (This is where I tell you I received a beta copy, yada, yada yada.)
This story started out with a bang. The opening scene took me to the edge of my seat and I stayed there for the rest of the book. There is enough of a hint there, but the full secret of that opening scene takes most of the book to fully appreciate.
The characters are well written, both primary and secondary. I loved the way that element bending was woven in with vampirism. The characters have very human flaws (I love to see this! No one should be perfect!) that make them oh, so lovable. I wanted to smack Ash throughout the book, Kielyn and Stefen's antics made me laugh. I really liked watching Ash change his ways of thinking and "growing up" in a way. He is old, yeah, but maturity wise, he really grew in this book. The secondary characters are well rounded with outstanding personalities that fit right in and round out the cast.
The author has a nice mix of dialogue and narrative that enhances the story and continually moves it forward. I have found sometimes that authors use too much dialogue and the story gets lost in the back and forth. I was very pleased to see that was not the case here. I particularly liked the banter between Dax and Ash. I was never sure if they were going to end up fighting or not.
The plot moves at a quick enough pace to make this a definite page turner and has more than enough twists and turns to keep me guessing. Each scene builds on the last with effective transitioning that keeps everything flowing smoothly. The author has taken the time to build a small world. The world we know today is already done and she details that well enough that a good picture can be seen from her words. You can tell she had fun building the other world in her book. Hell. Yes, she went there and takes us along for the ride. Ms. Von Haegert has a gift of painting pictures with words and she paints a vivid picture of the depravity there. Dante is the very epitome of a depraved antagonists, and with Katara and Zander as antagonists in training, it proves to be a very entertaining realm.
I cannot wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Amanda.
213 reviews
November 25, 2016
Keilyn is an awkward teenager in college who had lost all her family and has never felt like she fit in. She has an Angel following her, Stefan's job is to observe not interfere. He can't help himself when he sees a vampire lurking, waiting for her to exit a shop. After he disposed of the vampire, he realizes another supernatural being is watching him and Keilyn. but he cannot sense who or what it is. Poor Keilyn doesn't know she is a Bender, she can manipulate certain elements and she has a destiny to follow, if she doesn't get killed first. One night she decides to go to the Art wing at her college as painting is her passion. She runs into three drunk frat boys that flirt with her at first, but then try to get handsy. Before Stefan can do anything, there's a huge bolt of light and Keilyn blacks out. When his sight cleats she is unconscious and the three boys are dead. Stefan acts on instinct, grabs her and runs top the woods. He runs until he runs into the other supernatural presence he had been sensing, an Oracle... The Oracle Pythia to be exact. She advises Stefan how rate Kielyn is, she's a fire and water Bender. Stefan's brother can't help, but he's to take her to where her destiny is and Stefan's destiny also intertwines.
Meanwhile, Ash, the oldest of the fire Benders, has been on his own with Marsala an air Bender he adopted as a sister for hundreds of years. Ash and Marsala have kept a low profile, but things have changed. A water Bender named Walter Bane has requested a meeting regarding Dante and his increase in forces and mental disabilities. Ash knows all about Dante's mental instability, he's the only one of his family alive and that's only because he escaped. Dante would to anything to bring Ash back to Hell. Bane's servant is almost unable to convince Ash to meet until he tells him the name of the Bender of the prophecy; Kielyndrian, Ash's mother's name. Now he's curious, but very wary. He hasn't come this far by trusting everyone. When he gets to Bane's compound, Kielyn's already there. He feels more than an attraction to her, a fierce need to protect her: something that he didn't want. Now can he win her over since he's been declared the Fire King? Can they fight back Dante's armies even with all the Benders their numbers are smaller? Will the Angels help?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Pauline.
381 reviews6 followers
November 30, 2022
Oh wow! My heart is still racing. The action, the friendship, the passion and the smart one liners. The characters were brilliant and I’m hard pressed to pick a favourite. This book is complicated to explain but when you read it everything falls in place and makes sense.
I was recommended to read this book ages ago and I added it to my to read list but now I wish I had done so sooner.
Angels, vampires, elements and dragons - this story weaves its own spell and hooks you right in.

Received an ARC of this book and provided a review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Leanne.
Author 5 books84 followers
April 1, 2016
An utterly unique and riveting page turner!

Two souls fated to unite.
Two realms at war with one another.
A beautiful young woman who holds the power to unite these two kingdoms.

I absolutely adored this book!!  I've read stories with Shapeshifters, Vampires,  and other otherworldly creatures, but element benders is a new one for me. This story puts an entirely new spin on paranormal. So cleverly crafted, it sucked me into its portal of non-stop action from the get-go. The pacing and build up of suspense was amazing. This story was an unstoppable edge-of-your-seat ride of intrigue and suspense, twists and turns. Sprinkled with wicked banter, swoon-worthy angels and vamps and two leads that have amazing  chemistry.

“Like a wolf craves the moon. A river yearns for a course. As ink begs to bleed.” He swept his fingers over her lips. “I need you like a desert thirst."

I honestly couldn't flip through the pages on my Kindle fast enough, even bought take-out so I could immerse myself in the story without having to cook for the family!

'This is how it goes when the end is near at hand. It rarely makes a noise as it strokes softly along the breath of a fading breeze. It seldom leaves a trace of its time and cleverly disguises its purposeful destruction.'

Stacy's writing is phenomenal. Poetic prose and vivid description that flows like a movie in your mind. You're right there...recoiling from the seductive lick of flames, both mesmerised and quaking in the presence of Ash LeGroyen, the Fire King.

'He might have been the most handsome man she had ever seen if not for the simple fact that he looked so dangerous. Like a wild predator the way he stood, rigid as stone just staring at her with those haunting eyes.'

This is a truly epic marvel of a story. Captivating. The supporting characters round the story out perfectly and I'm so hoping a few will have their own books too. This book has renewed my interest in paranormal, and I cannot WAIT for the next one.

6 fire-bending stars. One of the best I've read !!
1 review
March 11, 2016
Anticipating this book for months after knowing the author from her 'The White Rose' series.. The White Rose Trilogy (3 Book Series) ..I did what I rarely do. I checked amazon like all 5 seconds, purchased Forged of Fire and read the whole night through. (Thank gods for make up or I could do one step out of the door today.) For sure I knew that she Stacy van Haegert wouldn't let me down as reader, but damn, did she deliver with this one! With a complete new twist to the world of vampires, she leaves what we know of the vamp world far behind and intertwines them with element benders, only to spice it up with some sexy dragons. Yes, Fire has never been so sexy; just saying. Forged of Fire kept me as readers on my toes: a fast-pacing story, with new twists to old ways within fantasy, sexy as hell. (And yes, Katara gives sexy as hell a new meaning. Evil is the new sexy! Sorry, all guys are damn heartthrobs and give a girl a stupid grin but Katara tops with her evil wickedness.) If i coud I would give the book more stars alone for how well developed and alive the "minor" characters. Well, screw minor, they are damn amazing (I already admitted that I am fascinated by Katara, sexy as hell - this saying will forever wear her face for me.)! Stefen... (Stacy, he better gets his own book!!!) Well, sorry to Ash (Who is really sexy and awesome not to speak of being the perfect alpha male.) but Stefen is my favourite character; his wit all over the book. Priceless!!! The plot: Did I mention it is sexy and surprising, then hilarious and breathtaking, it has really dark moments and then sweet ones you want to change place with Kielyn. Oh Kielyn, let me close with the heroine. She is just damn gorgeous. And i dont mean her being sexy, she is. But her character development, how she starts as sweet girl (which she never loses to be) and then turns to that sexy, fierce and strong woman...and together with Ash... (Fans myself) ...hot, hot, hot.
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