Member Reviews

Queen of Dreams is book two in the Bound to Fire and Steel series by Kit Rocha and it picks up shortly after book one leaves off so if you haven't read book one yet, you might want to hold on reading any further.

Now that Zanya has manifested her magic, she needs to embrace what she is and what she can do but because of their past, she fears the power she has. Ash quickly realizes he needs to hand over her training to someone who will truly push her to her limits and not try to protect her from everything so that's what he does and under the tutelage of Elevia and Ulric, she truly comes to realize what she can do.

At the same time, to kick off the story, Sachi is struggling with who she is and what her role is in everything. She hates sitting around waiting for Ash and Zanya while they go off to fight the Betrayer. But as her connection to the Dream deepens, she finds herself somehow pulled right into the Betrayer's stronghold and she sees this as her chance to do her part. She was raised to survive amongst the danger of a court so to gain his trust, she promises to not walk back to Ash and Zanya. If she can feed them any information she can find out while there, perhaps it can tip the scales in their favor. What Sachi finds out though is so much bigger than she expected though.

As everything comes to a head in this book and the final battle begins, it's definitely up in the air on which way everything will go. That said, I thought Rocha did a fantastic job of bringing everything together with this duology. Not only showing how Zanya and Sachi develop into who they are but also how things come to a head between Ash and the Betrayer. If you're looking for a new Romantasy to pick up, consider grabbing this one. There magic and world building are well done, the characters are well developed and if you're looking for spice, you'll for sure get it in this series.

Was this review helpful?

What an absolute ride! I can see this so clearly on the big screen. The build up, the battle at the end, the sexy sexy scenes. everythiiiing!

My favourite thing is seeing Sachi and Zanya coming into their power, see more clearly how they and Ash just fit as a trio. That while they are gods their vulnerabilities shine through. Loved how complex and engaging ever character was. We finally got to meet the Betrayer and hoo boy what a guy.

The secondary characters also have me so intrigued (hello Aleksei i see youuu) as they are so different and colourful in their own ways. I do hope we get to see more of the High Court because they were so fascinating to me.

Enjoyed this immensely!

Was this review helpful?

The worldbuilding is really outstanding, as was the magic. Then there was the action and the romance. Ugh, I HIGHLY recommend this story.

Was this review helpful?

loved this mystery and keeping secrets and the different point of views. Also loved trying to figure out who did it . I enjoyed the mystery behind it.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams is the sequel to Consort of Fire in the Bound to Fire and Steel series. To be honest, I was a little worried before starting this book that it wouldn't be as good as the first book. However, it was surprisingly good, and it had a wonderful conclusion that left me satisfied.

Was this review helpful?

Big fan of Kit Rocha. Loved the Beyond series. Enjoyed some kick-butt Librarians. Somehow missed the release of Consort of Fire? And I was a little worried about Queen of Dreams. I picked up the book once, put it down. Tried it again, put it down. I’m really glad I gave it third shot because once I got over the somewhat slow start—and that might be my fault because I jumped into the second book of a duology without knowing the back story—Queen of Dreams was a rocking Kit Rocha good time. A lot of action and some very good steam mixed with magic, dragons, dreams and nightmares made for a satisfying story.

I think this book made for a complete story on its own, but I’ll be going back to read the first book because I enjoyed this one.

Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for an eARC. Opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Shelby – ☆☆☆☆☆
I absolutely LOVED CONSORT OF FIRE, book one in the Bound to Fire and Steel series, and they do need to be read in order as book two is a continuation from the first. I promise you, this series doesn't disappoint!

As Zanya finds herself, Sachi is left drifting and trying to find her purpose. The gods all have their own gifts and Zanya is trying to learn how to wield her power, often clumsily, but she's doing the best she can with what she has to work with. Ash is trying to keep the world together, avoiding any further confrontations with the Betrayer. To summarize, there is too much going on and something has to give!

I adore the growth that Zanya experiences, I find myself drawn to her and hoping everything finally "clicks." That's not to say she is more important than the other two, not at all. All three have a lot to overcome and are stronger together yet each have important roles to play.
Sachi really shines in this book (quite literally)! She is the embodiment of love and light; she is the perfect complement to Zanya's dark. When the time comes for Sachi to step up, she embraces the challenge with no fear!

Overall, I really enjoyed book two in the newest series by Kit Rocha (I love both books)! The story is unique, the characters are interesting, and the romance is different (and spicy). I don't want to say goodbye, I would really like to see how the court deals with the new, improved world!


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in this very engaging series, and you most definitely need to read them in order... or you will be pretty lost! If you read Consort of Fire a while ago, I think you will find that it all comes flooding back to you very quickly!

As Ash, Sachi, and Zanya somehow start to understand what they mean to each other and how their future might be, the women are also learning about their godly gifts. For Zanya, in particular, she needs to gain control of the immense power that she wields. Her lack of knowledge is causing mayhem and destruction – I loved how she is finally accepted for herself... even if she finds it very difficult to believe or trust it. Sachi is intent on finding a non-violent solution to the problems of the Betrayer still wanting to beat his brother Ash. Her world of Dreams is also one she is not entirely in control there yet. Ash and Zanya want to protect Sachi, yet their actions drive her into action.

This is a great adventure in another world, with at its heart the love of the three of them. The passion they unleash on each other is wonderfully hot and intense – giving them a chance to show how they feel even when they are not good at saying it. Very sensual and romantic amongst the madness going on around them

Already waiting for the next installment!

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Was this review helpful?

I don't think I'd ever be tired of reading something from Kit Rocha.

Their character work is just so masterful, and varied, its so good. Sachi's development, Zanya's vulnerability, and Ash's general "Who hurt you?" anger, they're a really great combo of characters, and their writing of all three is brilliant. And because they know how to feed us, the plot was lush and enticing. You were worried for characters, you were upset with people, and the overall badassness that envelops our lady protaganists, was very well done.

Good freaking food.

The narrators did a wonderful job of brining the characters to life. I sincerely enjoyed the audiobook.

Thank you to Montlake, Brilliance Audio, and Netgalley for an audio/e-copy.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams is the sequel to Consort of Fire. This fantasy series follows three lovers through their dreams and powers.

I enjoyed book one but book two fell flat for me unfortunately. The tension was gone, it dragged on and on, and I lost interest in the entire plot and characters by the end. I can absolutely see why others still love this book if they were really invested in the world to begin with.

Thank you so much to Netgalley, Kit Rocha, and Montlake for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review! This published on August 6th!

I have posted my review on Goodreads, my Facebook book club, and will make a TikTok to post around the publishing date.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams. sequel to Consort of Fire, picks up right after the events of book 1. Sachi, Zanya and Ash are dealing with the aftermath of the events of book 1 and learning to deal with Zanya’s new powers but also trying to find their footing around each other..But they do not have as much time as they wish as war looms and The Betrayer makes his move.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Just like book 1, Kit Rocha manage to craft an engaging, emotional story where the characters are complex and we spend time exploring their feelings and emotions. I particularly enjoyed Zanya’s arc in this book and her learning slowly to trust and be vulnerable and come into her full power.

The evolution of Zanya and Ash’s relationship was also a highlight of the book for me. Whereas Sachi and Ash have an easier bond, the book takes the time to explore Zanya’s own relationship to him through a series of beautiful (sometimes heartbreaking) scenes where they learn they are much more similar than they thought.

The supporting cast of characters remains very strong. They all have their own individuality and I love the way they are incorporated in the story, Aleksi in particular i’ve developed a big soft spot for for spoiler reasons!

The horny dragon book continues to earn its nickname! The spice and romance in this book are just as enjoyable as they were in the first installment. I liked the way the bond between each protagonist is explored and how it deepens the relationship between the three.

Although I wish we could have had a bit more time to breathe in the last part of the book, where I felt some aspects were a bit rushed, Queen of Dreams is still an amazing sequel that ties up the story of Zanya, Sachi and Ash perfectly.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams is book two in the Bound to Fire and Steel series. This story picks up right after the events in Consort of Fire. Sachi, Ash and Zanya are learning to deal with their new relationship while they try to figure out what to do about all of the groups planning to move against them and the other gods. Zanya has new powers that she must learn to harness. Sachi feels useless locked in the castle for safety. Ash doesn’t want to have to fight his brother again and must face his fears to save everyone. The three of them, along with the rest of the character, must go their separate ways before they can come back together to fight the evil in their world. Will they succeed or will one of them die during the fight?

Sachi is definitely a princess but she is also tied to the dream. She might look like a tiny, helpless doll but if she can learn to harness her connection to the dream she will be strong and she thinks that will make her useful. It was nice to see how Sachi went from delicate princess who was raised to be a weapon to her becoming fully herself. Ash carries so much fear and guilt but Sachi and Zanya are opening him back up to love. His need to protect everyone he loves while also opening his mind to how he can help others was a nice journey. Zanya is a god now but she has no idea how to control her new power. The three of them have to deal with evil in the human world while also trying to fight evil from The Betrayer. The author creates a second complete world with The Betrayer. The author continued to develop the stories of the other gods surrounding Ash, Sachi and Zanya. I really enjoyed that part of the story.

The author has created a unique and complex world with living gods. This is a scifi/paranormal/fantasy book. You must read book one first. Every event in this book is started in book one. I believe this book was a set up for another book but I’m not sure. I will definitely read more from this author in the future.

Was this review helpful?

Thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for the arc. I loved this series. FFM romantasy is my jam and this was so good. I loved seeing Zanya and Ash's relationship grow and Sachi come into her power. This was fast paced and steamy, grounded in great characters and a rich world. I know some weren't a fan of the length of the last battle but I love a drawn out climax battle scene. I also appreciated that we got a longer denouement to address what happened and provide a last steamy scene. I'm sad to let this world go. This is definitely a series I'll be rereading and an author I will revisit. So happy I took a chance on a second book in series arc. I highly recommend.

Was this review helpful?

This is the second installment in the series, that delivers a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. Ash, Sachi, and Zanya, three powerful lovers, unite to face the ancient evil of the Betrayer. Ash has waited millennia for a consort, but instead finds himself connected to Sachi and Zanya, who embody creation and destruction. The character development is superb, mainly as Zanya battles her inner darkness and Sachi navigates the Betrayer’s treacherous realm. The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists, making for a thrilling read. The book balances epic battles with intimate moments, offering a satisfying conclusion while leaving me eager for what’s next in this rich, magical world.

Was this review helpful?

A great conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I love a good fantasy story and if it is steamy, all the better!

Was this review helpful?

Sometimes when I'm reading high fantasy with epic romances, I do wish for some steamy scenes. Well, it's as if Kit Rocha heard my silent plea and made that happen in this epic conclusion to their duology!

This story is nothing if not FOR ME specifically. Epic love story, dragons, court politics, fighting against evil - this has it all! I continued to love Zanya, and Sachi was really giving time to shine in the hideous court of the Betrayer. I grew to adore the High Court of gods surrounding them as Zanya adapted to her new shadow queen powers. I knew Sachi's Super Saiyan moment was coming and was so excited throughout my read for it! Oh and when it hit? Perfection. A wonderful conclusion to a wonderful duology. I want many more of this style of romantasy!

Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

The conclusion to Ash, Sachi & Zanya’s task to rid their world of the Betrayer’s evil. Epic fantasy of a amorous dragon (iykyk - I don’t my review rejected) and the two women who join forces to stop their world from crumbling. Great ending to the duology. Heat level - 10 ghost peppers. 5 Stars.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams is book 2 in the Bound to Fire and Steel by Kit Rocha.
This was the perfect romantasy story!
I immediately got sucked into this amazing world. With these phenomenal characters.

Was this review helpful?

I was highly anticipating this sequel as I was letting wanting more of Zanya and Ash’s dynamic in the first book. Queen of Dreams did not disappoint — the romance, action, steamy scenes and side characters all delivered. Sachi is captured by Sorin and because of that Zanya and Ash are left to lean on eachother in her absence. Zanya’s unsure of her powers but Ash can relate to her feelings of isolation and fear, so him along with Sachi are able to help her realize the strength that comes from being supported by those that love you. Sachi also had an interesting arc here as she goes through a bit of changes while under Sorin’s harsh rule. I’m just happy that the characters have finally bonded and are a sturdy unit. I would give anything to have more books in this world following some of the other characters. I really enjoyed this one.

Was this review helpful?

If you've read any of Kit Rocha's books, you pretty much know what to expect. This time it is not a dystopian world, nor space, but a paranormal world where mages, werewolves, dragons and all possible magical and fantastic creatures live. But at the heart of it all is still love.

Since I haven't read the first book in the series, maybe some things were confusing for me, but at the same time, enough hints are given to the previous one that maybe only more detailed descriptions were missing, but I still got the general picture.

Far, far away, beyond the seven lands and seas, there is a country whose king has promised a monster living nearby that every hundred years a princess will be brought to him and he will protect them from other monsters during that time. But the king (as kings always do) doesn't want to sacrifice his daughter, so the orphans are found and raised in the royal household, one as a princess and the other as an assassin tasked with killing the monster the moment the princess needs to be handed over again. But these girls are no ordinary false princess and murderer. Something special happens when they are handed over, and to protect each other and the monster, they reveal abilities that have been kept secret until now.
This second book is about how the girls experiment with their new abilities, how they get to know each other as lovers, how they overcome their fears and prepare to accept everything their abilities have to offer.

There's excitement and sizzling love, and there's no limit to fantasy. At first it felt like I was reading an adult version of Millie Bobby Brown's new film “Damsel” :), but the similarity is only superficial, Kit Rocha's story goes much deeper, but yes, the beginning is quite similar.

Was this review helpful?

Queen of Dreams is so fun. It opens with Ash, Zanya, and other members of the High Court preventing soldiers from burning an old woman as a witch. Rot in The Sheltered Lands is being spread by the regents who took control after Zanya murdered the evil king. There are intrigues, preparations for war, gods fighting gods, lovers sparring using their full abilities, lovers loving to their full abilities, and endless buckets of hope. The world building in this series is amazing and I am so excited that we will get more duologies centered around the Court of the High Dreamers.

Our Dragon god, Ash, is still horny for his consort, Sachielle, and her lover, Zanya. Zanya has manifested her powers as the avatar of the Endless Void and still learning her powers. Sachi is an object of desire for the Betrayer, and he steals her away. As in Consort of Fire, Sachi is the emotional center of Queen of Dreams, but here we also see her bring her skills to undermining The Betrayer in his own power center.

I massively overthink things and tie myself into knots trying to express all the visceral and thinky thoughts that I have about books. I am quite capable of hyper fixating on a single element and my whole review of a fun, exciting book will make it sound like a dry treatise on emotional labor. I refuse to make Queen of Dreams sound dull by going on and on about the way the trio love all aspects of each other and the contrast between that and the rigid, extractive control The Betrayer exerts on his court and his people. I love this exchange between Ash and Zanya:

“There’s only one thing to remember,” he said softly. “Sometimes the world needs monsters. Everything you learned today? You’ll have it to use against the Betrayer.”

She nodded, her eyes shadowed.

“He’s a monster for the sake of being a monster. You?” He smiled. “You’re her monster. And that makes all the difference.”

I received this as an advance reader copy from Montlake and NetGalley. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.

Was this review helpful?