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Fire and Tears #1
Brightarrow Burning
Layla Brightarrow’s world fell apart the day the Sorcerers invaded her city. Abandoned by the neighboring elven kingdom, Layla must forsake all hope for the man she loves, a powerful elf lord now forever beyond her reach. But when some of the elves break the neutrality to side with the Sorcerers, Layla is sent to assassinate one of the traitors. Her mission forces her to confront the very man she never thought she’d see again—and face a desire she thought long buried.
Ulric of Glengowyn is determined to protect Layla from his traitorous brother, and he’ll do whatever is necessary to keep her alive, including using her feelings against her. But his game of seduction cuts both ways, endangering both their lives. To save her, Ulric will have to convince Layla to trust him, an impossible feet when her mission is to kill his brother.
For Layla, Ulric is a temptation she can’t resist, and a risk she doesn’t dare take. Years of denial and betrayal hang between them, leaving Layla caught between duty and a love that could be her destruction. Or her salvation.
Ulric of Glengowyn is determined to protect Layla from his traitorous brother, and he’ll do whatever is necessary to keep her alive, including using her feelings against her. But his game of seduction cuts both ways, endangering both their lives. To save her, Ulric will have to convince Layla to trust him, an impossible feet when her mission is to kill his brother.
For Layla, Ulric is a temptation she can’t resist, and a risk she doesn’t dare take. Years of denial and betrayal hang between them, leaving Layla caught between duty and a love that could be her destruction. Or her salvation.
- GenresFantasy
136 pages, Paperback
First published October 4, 2011
55 people want to read
About the author
Isabo Kelly
35 books26 followersIsabo Kelly is the award winning author of numerous science fiction, fantasy and paranormal romance novels, short stories and novellas. After finishing her Ph.D. in Zoology in Ireland, she buckled down to concentrate on writing. Isabo currently lives in New York City with her brilliant Irish husband, her son and her mad dog.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 29, 2012
This review originally appeared at http://www.readingreality.net/2012/03...
When your people are struggling for survival, love is the last thing on your mind, especially if your job is to kill the brother of the only man you've ever loved.
That simple plot description becomes a multi-layered fantasy romance in the hands of Isabo Kelly. Her Brightarrow Burning gives readers not just a steamy romance, but also a compelling portrait of a heroine caught between duty, desire, and the gut-instinct to trust someone she's known all her life, even when recent events say she shouldn't. The story boils with added fire of the human desire to live fast in the face of imminent death, and a truly addictive partner.
More on that in a minute.
Brightarrow Burning shows a world in shambles. A powerful race of Sorcerers invaded Layla's human city just a few short years ago. The Sorcerers draw their power for their spells from human pain, so they capture and torture Layla's people for their fuel.
The humans thought the nearby Elven Kingdoms were their allies, but the Sorcerers were clever. Divide and conquer is an old trick. The Sorcerers bargained with the elves first, promising power and riches, and the elves stayed neutral in the Human/Sorcerer conflict.
Without elven weapons, the humans had no chance.
Then some of the elves started trading weapons to the Sorcerers. With the neutrality broken, the more enlightened elves were able to start trading with the Layla's people again. That enlightenment meant they had never been beguiled by the Sorcerers' claims; they knew that as soon as the humans were conquered, the Elven Kingdoms were next.
Layla is an archer, one of the best shots the humans have. With elven weapons, she can disrupt a caravan of captives, and sometimes assassinate its guards. But she has a special assignment.
One elven lord has been betraying the secrets of the human city to the Sorcerers since the day they arrived. The elves used to be their friends, and had free entry into the city. Layla's assignment is to kill that elf.
Although Althir may have betrayed the humans, his brother Ulric has been a friend of her family's all her life. Now that Layla is a grown woman, the feelings she has for Ulric are anything but familial.
It won't stop her from killing his brother. But Ulric might.
He's suddenly there, every time she turns around. He says he wants to protect her. Even more, he says he wants to love her. But Layla fears that the real reason Ulric is there is to protect his brother.
After all, where was he before she started to target his brother? He disappeared for years, and suddenly he's back. It can't be a coincidence.
And then Ulric adds the addictive compulsion of elf-fire into this already combustible mix, and all hell really does break loose!
Escape Rating B: For a short novella, this story packs a surprising amount of emotional wallop into it. Equally surprising, it manages to tie up its major loose ends, as least as far as the hero and heroine are concerned.
The worldbuilding is pretty neat, too. This is a dark and gritty war-torn fantasy world. We see just enough to know why Layla's and Ulric's relationship has such a damn hard time getting started, and where Layla's trust issues come from.
I would love to see more of this world, it's got the kind of possibilities for future storytelling built into it that remind me a little of Shiloh Walker's Veil series.
If you prefer your elves dark and tortured, your women warriors, and your road to romance rocky, you'll enjoy this book.
When your people are struggling for survival, love is the last thing on your mind, especially if your job is to kill the brother of the only man you've ever loved.
That simple plot description becomes a multi-layered fantasy romance in the hands of Isabo Kelly. Her Brightarrow Burning gives readers not just a steamy romance, but also a compelling portrait of a heroine caught between duty, desire, and the gut-instinct to trust someone she's known all her life, even when recent events say she shouldn't. The story boils with added fire of the human desire to live fast in the face of imminent death, and a truly addictive partner.
More on that in a minute.
Brightarrow Burning shows a world in shambles. A powerful race of Sorcerers invaded Layla's human city just a few short years ago. The Sorcerers draw their power for their spells from human pain, so they capture and torture Layla's people for their fuel.
The humans thought the nearby Elven Kingdoms were their allies, but the Sorcerers were clever. Divide and conquer is an old trick. The Sorcerers bargained with the elves first, promising power and riches, and the elves stayed neutral in the Human/Sorcerer conflict.
Without elven weapons, the humans had no chance.
Then some of the elves started trading weapons to the Sorcerers. With the neutrality broken, the more enlightened elves were able to start trading with the Layla's people again. That enlightenment meant they had never been beguiled by the Sorcerers' claims; they knew that as soon as the humans were conquered, the Elven Kingdoms were next.
Layla is an archer, one of the best shots the humans have. With elven weapons, she can disrupt a caravan of captives, and sometimes assassinate its guards. But she has a special assignment.
One elven lord has been betraying the secrets of the human city to the Sorcerers since the day they arrived. The elves used to be their friends, and had free entry into the city. Layla's assignment is to kill that elf.
Although Althir may have betrayed the humans, his brother Ulric has been a friend of her family's all her life. Now that Layla is a grown woman, the feelings she has for Ulric are anything but familial.
It won't stop her from killing his brother. But Ulric might.
He's suddenly there, every time she turns around. He says he wants to protect her. Even more, he says he wants to love her. But Layla fears that the real reason Ulric is there is to protect his brother.
After all, where was he before she started to target his brother? He disappeared for years, and suddenly he's back. It can't be a coincidence.
And then Ulric adds the addictive compulsion of elf-fire into this already combustible mix, and all hell really does break loose!
Escape Rating B: For a short novella, this story packs a surprising amount of emotional wallop into it. Equally surprising, it manages to tie up its major loose ends, as least as far as the hero and heroine are concerned.
The worldbuilding is pretty neat, too. This is a dark and gritty war-torn fantasy world. We see just enough to know why Layla's and Ulric's relationship has such a damn hard time getting started, and where Layla's trust issues come from.
I would love to see more of this world, it's got the kind of possibilities for future storytelling built into it that remind me a little of Shiloh Walker's Veil series.
If you prefer your elves dark and tortured, your women warriors, and your road to romance rocky, you'll enjoy this book.
July 23, 2017
Looking for a steamy-melt-your-panties/boxers-off hot read to fill up a lonely night, this is the read for you. This Paranormal Erotica is filled with thrills, chills and enough heat to make your knees go weak. A love between a human and an elf that has blossomed for years, even neither was the wiser of how the other felt. Though being on the brink of war would do that. But when all that heat finally builds up to its boiling point, they may go past the point of no return, and oh how sweet it is.
Layla is an Assassin, determined to do her part in a war that is enslaving her people. So it is easy to understand her trust issues with the man, well Elf, that she is in love with, Ulrich. Since her present target is none other than his only brother. After-all, blood is thicker than lust. So when Ulrich reenters her life, she has to determine whether he is indeed trying to protect her, or simply use her.
Brightarrow Burning is the perfect set up for the series to come. Fire and Tears Book 2, The Darkness of Glengowyn is expected out April 29, 2014. Readers who are looking for a good, quick read to spice up their night, that also includes a plot, are sure to enjoy this read.
Layla is an Assassin, determined to do her part in a war that is enslaving her people. So it is easy to understand her trust issues with the man, well Elf, that she is in love with, Ulrich. Since her present target is none other than his only brother. After-all, blood is thicker than lust. So when Ulrich reenters her life, she has to determine whether he is indeed trying to protect her, or simply use her.
Brightarrow Burning is the perfect set up for the series to come. Fire and Tears Book 2, The Darkness of Glengowyn is expected out April 29, 2014. Readers who are looking for a good, quick read to spice up their night, that also includes a plot, are sure to enjoy this read.
February 28, 2016
The review that follow is a partial review. To read the full review, please visit TBQ's Book Palace!
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In a fantasy world, not everything is as it seems...Knowing this, can two lovers learn to trust each other, or will their relationship tear them apart—and possibly contribute to the destruction of an entire race?
Layla is a human, fighting for her people, trying to defeat the Sorcerers set on enslaving and killing her entire race. The elves have decided not to take sides, leaving the humans to fight for themselves. But when the Sorcerers manage to bring traitor elves to their side, the scale tips even more—and it is likely that the winner of this war won't be the humans...
Ulric is an elf, one that has known Layla for years—and secretly wanted her the entire time. When she is almost killed, twice, while trying to get rid of traitor elves (including his own brother) he finally realizes that he can't live without her. But Layla doesn't seem to feel the same way—or does she?
Elf-fire, a pheromone that elves produce when deeply, truly, attracted to someone else, only adds to the passion that already burns between them. Can Layla learn to trust Ulric, who has put his heart and body on the line for her? Or will her trust in him lead to heartbreak—not to mention betrayal that could kill her....
Brightarrow Burning is a short novella, well under 100 pages. And yet, while reading it I almost forgot this fact. Usually, novellas feel rushed and incomplete, leaving the reader wanting more before the last page is ever turned. But Brightarrow Burning was nothing like this. I absolutely loved it, and while, obviously, I wouldn't say no to more from this book, it wasn't needed as Isabo Kelly did a wonderful job at telling a complete story in only a matter of pages.
I enjoyed watching Ulric and Layla fall for one another. The loving was spicy hot and so intense that I think I saw some smoke wafting from my NOOK. But, even more important, was the fact that their romance seemed genuine—it was not just lust burning out of control. They were connected, heart, body and soul. I'd love to have my own elf lover, as the elf-fire seems to turn an already hot scene into a real scorcher! Of course, we find out that it only burns that bright when true love is involved—on both of their parts. Without love, eventually the elf-fire sputters out to nothing and can leave the human ill for the rest of their life. So maybe I'll rephrase that: I would love to have my own true-love elf lover. :)
....
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This review is property of The_Book_Queen (TBQ's Book Palace)
March 27, 2012
Isabo Kelly has created an intriguing read in Brightarrow Burning with its unique characters in a colorful and exciting world where human, fae, and others struggle for survival. This read sucked me in from the start and I was surprised by how quickly the end arrived. There was action and romance galore but I wish we'd seen more to the story considering how nicely the story flowed.
Layla has loved Ulric since she was young but kept it to herself since human/elf relationships are frowned upon for many reasons. Little did she know that he too was attracted to her. But with the tensions of war and with her life constantly in jeopardy he's now going to show her his true emotions. Their sexual interludes are truly sexy and nicely spaced throughout the story and these moments perfectly expressed their feelings amidst the constant fear of death. Layla is a strong heroine not afraid to do what must be done. She wants to be on the frontlines and bristles when Ulric asks her to stop, which he luckily doesn't do often. Ulric is physically strong and normally even tempered, but Layla brings out a barbarian side to him where he's willing to kill his own brother to protect her even though it goes against elf law. He wants to keep her safe but knows he can't force her to his way of thinking. He lets her make her own decisions but is always there to help her. Their relationship is very equal even though he's vastly more powerful and I enjoyed their interactions both in and out of bed.
The problem I had with this story, and it's a minor issue, is that it felt like there should be more. I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the story with a lot happening off page. There was one great action sequence but other than that you wouldn't know there was a war going on. The villain in this story didn't appear very villainous and the time spent with him was extremely minimal. Big issues were resolved far too quickly and easily but I definitely felt like I was left hanging at the end of the story. Layla and Ulric's relationship was solidified but little else felt settled. I thought that maybe this book was used to set up a series which would explain some of my issues, but I'm not sure if that's the case.
Either way, and whatever minor issues I had with the story, it was still an enjoyable read. The world was vividly depicted with a memorable and likable main couple and I was completely sucked in by Ms. Kelly's writing. I do recommend this book and hope that Ms. Kelly will expand upon what was so nicely started here.
Layla has loved Ulric since she was young but kept it to herself since human/elf relationships are frowned upon for many reasons. Little did she know that he too was attracted to her. But with the tensions of war and with her life constantly in jeopardy he's now going to show her his true emotions. Their sexual interludes are truly sexy and nicely spaced throughout the story and these moments perfectly expressed their feelings amidst the constant fear of death. Layla is a strong heroine not afraid to do what must be done. She wants to be on the frontlines and bristles when Ulric asks her to stop, which he luckily doesn't do often. Ulric is physically strong and normally even tempered, but Layla brings out a barbarian side to him where he's willing to kill his own brother to protect her even though it goes against elf law. He wants to keep her safe but knows he can't force her to his way of thinking. He lets her make her own decisions but is always there to help her. Their relationship is very equal even though he's vastly more powerful and I enjoyed their interactions both in and out of bed.
The problem I had with this story, and it's a minor issue, is that it felt like there should be more. I felt like I was dropped into the middle of the story with a lot happening off page. There was one great action sequence but other than that you wouldn't know there was a war going on. The villain in this story didn't appear very villainous and the time spent with him was extremely minimal. Big issues were resolved far too quickly and easily but I definitely felt like I was left hanging at the end of the story. Layla and Ulric's relationship was solidified but little else felt settled. I thought that maybe this book was used to set up a series which would explain some of my issues, but I'm not sure if that's the case.
Either way, and whatever minor issues I had with the story, it was still an enjoyable read. The world was vividly depicted with a memorable and likable main couple and I was completely sucked in by Ms. Kelly's writing. I do recommend this book and hope that Ms. Kelly will expand upon what was so nicely started here.
January 26, 2012
It's been many years since this reviewer read an Isabo Kelly story - my word, what a difference! Here we have two main and some minor characters, the former two very strong-willed, focused individuals. Layla Brightarrow lives in a world invaded by a species called Sorcerers who know how to use pain and joy to transform humans into their own kind. They have a destructive goal and are well on the way to accomplishing it!
However, they have a very different power over the elven kingdom (no spoilers here), one which the reader could not guess in a lifetime. All this is finally shared by one of the elves, Ulric of Glengowyn, who is passionate about Layla but has a hard time convincing her he is not an enemy. One of his family members just might complicate the situation for Ulric, but he's a brainy and brawny guy who might be able to handle any adversity that comes his way.
What Layla and Ulric come to acknowledge is that their fierce, steamy attraction and union is irresistible and ultimately so very, very satisfying - more than that!
Yes, this is hot, steamy romance - hotter than most romance fiction depictions for sure! The brevity is powerful in the immediate focus on the need to save Layla's country from traitors, but so is the flame that gets lit early in the lives of Layla and Ulric!
Lovers of the romance genre, you won't forget this power-packed story for quite some time! Nicely done, Isabo Kelly!
However, they have a very different power over the elven kingdom (no spoilers here), one which the reader could not guess in a lifetime. All this is finally shared by one of the elves, Ulric of Glengowyn, who is passionate about Layla but has a hard time convincing her he is not an enemy. One of his family members just might complicate the situation for Ulric, but he's a brainy and brawny guy who might be able to handle any adversity that comes his way.
What Layla and Ulric come to acknowledge is that their fierce, steamy attraction and union is irresistible and ultimately so very, very satisfying - more than that!
Yes, this is hot, steamy romance - hotter than most romance fiction depictions for sure! The brevity is powerful in the immediate focus on the need to save Layla's country from traitors, but so is the flame that gets lit early in the lives of Layla and Ulric!
Lovers of the romance genre, you won't forget this power-packed story for quite some time! Nicely done, Isabo Kelly!
March 23, 2014
This review and more can be seen at http://gothicmoms.blogspot.com/
Looking for a steamy-melt-your-panties/boxers-off hot read to fill up a lonely night, this is the read for you. This Paranormal Erotica is filled with thrills, chills and enough heat to make your knees go weak. A love between a human and an elf that has blossomed for years, even neither was the wiser of how the other felt. Though being on the brink of war would do that. But when all that heat finally builds up to its boiling point, they may go past the point of no return, and oh how sweet it is.
Layla is an Assassin, determined to do her part in a war that is enslaving her people. So it is easy to understand her trust issues with the man, well Elf, that she is in love with, Ulrich. Since her present target is none other than his only brother. After-all, blood is thicker than lust. So when Ulrich reenters her life, she has to determine whether he is indeed trying to protect her, or simply use her.
Brightarrow Burning is the perfect set up for the series to come. Fire and Tears Book 2, The Darkness of Glengowyn is expected out April 29, 2014. Readers who are looking for a good, quick read to spice up their night, that also includes a plot, are sure to enjoy this read.
Looking for a steamy-melt-your-panties/boxers-off hot read to fill up a lonely night, this is the read for you. This Paranormal Erotica is filled with thrills, chills and enough heat to make your knees go weak. A love between a human and an elf that has blossomed for years, even neither was the wiser of how the other felt. Though being on the brink of war would do that. But when all that heat finally builds up to its boiling point, they may go past the point of no return, and oh how sweet it is.
Layla is an Assassin, determined to do her part in a war that is enslaving her people. So it is easy to understand her trust issues with the man, well Elf, that she is in love with, Ulrich. Since her present target is none other than his only brother. After-all, blood is thicker than lust. So when Ulrich reenters her life, she has to determine whether he is indeed trying to protect her, or simply use her.
Brightarrow Burning is the perfect set up for the series to come. Fire and Tears Book 2, The Darkness of Glengowyn is expected out April 29, 2014. Readers who are looking for a good, quick read to spice up their night, that also includes a plot, are sure to enjoy this read.
October 19, 2013
*Book source ~ Many thanks to the author for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Layla Brightarrow has been in love with Ulric of Glengowyn all her life. When war breaks out between humans and Sorcerers the elves decide to remain neutral, putting Ulric completely out of Layla’s reach. She is one of the best archers around so she is the one given many of the assassination orders to eliminate traitor elves, those who lure humans to the Sorcerers. Then she is ordered to kill Ulric’s brother Althir and almost dies in the attempt. Will Ulric remain neutral? Is he loyal to family? Or Layla?
Not bad for a short story. The world is described very well and the characters are decently fleshed out. The chemistry between Layla and Ulric is off the charts and the conflict put me on the edge of my seat. Ulric seems to care for Layla, but is he still loyal to his brother? Trust is hard for Layla, but in the end it’s all worth the effort. A wonderful quick read.
Layla Brightarrow has been in love with Ulric of Glengowyn all her life. When war breaks out between humans and Sorcerers the elves decide to remain neutral, putting Ulric completely out of Layla’s reach. She is one of the best archers around so she is the one given many of the assassination orders to eliminate traitor elves, those who lure humans to the Sorcerers. Then she is ordered to kill Ulric’s brother Althir and almost dies in the attempt. Will Ulric remain neutral? Is he loyal to family? Or Layla?
Not bad for a short story. The world is described very well and the characters are decently fleshed out. The chemistry between Layla and Ulric is off the charts and the conflict put me on the edge of my seat. Ulric seems to care for Layla, but is he still loyal to his brother? Trust is hard for Layla, but in the end it’s all worth the effort. A wonderful quick read.
August 23, 2015
Fun, fast read. This story was great. Wished it was longer. I really liked Ulric.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews