Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole is an absolute must-read for any romantasy lover. This BookTok sensation lives up to the hype, delivering a richly woven tale that combines epic world-building with characters you can’t help but get deeply invested in. Diem Bellator, a healer with a fierce will, is a breath of fresh air. Her journey from her small village to the dangerous realm of the Descended pulls you right in, and her morally grey, enemies-to-lovers tension with the darkly enigmatic heir, Luther, is everything fans of the genre crave.

Cole's world-building is mesmerizing—detailed yet not overwhelming, bringing Emarion and its powerful Descended rulers vividly to life. I’m a fan of complex settings, and this book nails it with layers of lore and high stakes that make the story feel immersive. The blend of classic romantasy tropes is done masterfully; nothing feels forced, and every moment feels natural and compelling. From the “who did this to you” vibes to the protective “touch her and die” moments, Spark of the Everflame taps into every romantic fantasy trope in the best way possible.

If you enjoy deeply flawed, realistic characters, Diem and Luther’s chemistry is the icing on an already perfect cake. Their interactions are charged with tension, and their individual journeys feel meaningful, adding an extra layer of depth to the romance. Diem's courage and vulnerability, paired with Luther's brooding protectiveness, make this story an unforgettable start to what promises to be an epic series.

I devoured this book in two days and can’t recommend it enough!

The ending of this book left be desperate for the next one! This is definitely a different and unique magical system, and one I haven't encountered before, which I enjoyed learning about. I like how feisty the main character is, and look forward to seeing her grow, especially with that cliffhanger. The forming relationship between the 2 characters is giving slow burn, which I love! As most books in a fantasy series, the first book tends to be more of an introduction to the world and set up of what is to come, so there is still some excitement/action and drama that could have made it better, but it has me hooked.

This book has been on my radar for a while and it did not disappoint! This is perfect for any romantasy lover! Full of excitement, tension and romance I can not wait to dive into book two!

A great start to a series, I really loved how the plot was so central to the overall storyline instead of the Romance.
Although this is a romantasy in part I really liked how it was a slower burn and other elements of the story were still explored and developed alongside the romance.

The mystery element of where Diem's mother is was really interesting as we are given possible hints about who she is really and where she could be. I liked how we, as readers, weren't told that the mother had just died to then show up again, as I liked the mysterious element of guessing her true motivations.

I did feel that some characters were developed better than others, however as this is only book 1 in a series, that is to be expected.

This left me wanting to read book 2 straight away after that cliff hanger. Would recommend this to anyone that wants a good romantasy with a developed plot line

I was very excited to read this after a friend spent ages raving to me about this series, and I whilst it wasn’t a revolutionary title I’m definitely intrigued to see where the rest of the series will go!

I found the world really interested and I’m excited to see how it continues to expand and be explored over time. I enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers dynamic, however I definitely need the conflicted emotions and angst to really sell and build up the believability of their connection. It was a bit of a hit and miss for me in this case, and ultimately I found this was explored a little late in the book which made the romance aspect feel rushed.

I really liked Diem initially but at the story went on she just became difficult to like at best, insufferable at worst. She was presented as an intelligent and strong-headed woman which disappointingly seemed to fade as the plot progressed forward to the point she almost seemed like a completely different character. Diem made a lot of poorly made decisions on a whim and ultimately come across as reckless and rash. I desperately wanted her to just *slow down* and think her actions through more before jumping into action.

The magic system itself was interesting and there’s definitely a lot of room for character development and plot progression, so I’m happy to see where it goes in the sequel before making a decision on whether this is a series for me.

Spark of the Everflame is one of those books where it takes a chapter or two to get into, but once you're past that point, it's game over. It consumes your thoughts, it's the only thing you want to talk about.
The plot, especially the world-building, was phenomenal-unique, complex, yet not overly complicated to the point of being hard to follow. The author did an amazing job incorporating all our favorite tropes without making them feel forced or excessive - if enemies to lovers, who did this to you, touch her and die and other stuff is your thing, this is the book for you.
I thoroughly enjoyed the fact that none of the characters were perfect, but rather flawed and morally grey. Diem with her impulsiveness and recklessness and Luther with his brooding demeanor were perfectly complimenting each other and making this journey even more enjoyable.
I honestly cannot recommend this book enough! If you're looking for a series that will evoke the same frenzy you experienced after finishing Acotar, Throne of Glass, he Plated Prisoner, etc., this should be your next read.

I really liked the premise of this book, so I've been quite excited to read it.
The world was reasonably easy to understand, it didn't have any excessive world building etc that can make getting into a book difficult. The plot was fun, and quick paced for the most part, with a few little twists and turns along the way but I wouldn't say there was a massive reveal or twist that I found shocking.

It's a slow burn romance, for sure. I wouldn't put it as an enemies to lovers, or at least not a true enemies to lovers. More a misunderstood 'enemy'.
Add in a dose of rebellion, and which side is the right side and I was hooked.

Diem... was, well, a young 20. She seemed extremely naive, and seemed to believe what people told her without thinking for herself which got a smidge annoying and eye-roll inducing. Though I guess that makes sense when she's been coddled from the world.
Henri was very much a holier than thou character who I enjoy hating and feel like he's probably on a villain arc, but that's my own feelings, nothing to indicate it yet.

Wow.

What an absolutely amazing read. From start to finish there was no one part where I felt bored or wishing for things to just get to the point. I was so invested in the story.

I loved her interactions with Lily and Luther and expecially loved the way she was with her patients. She didn't discriminate against Mortal or Descended — a lot of people could stand to see things the way Diem does.

Spark has quickly become one of my favourite books and I will 100% be buying Spark, Glow and Burn.

So here’s the thing, Diem is a teensy tiny bit annoying, but you’ll Stan her anyway. Penn Cole is a phenomenal writer and whilst you’ll want to shake Diem until her teeth rattle you’ll also be screaming ‘GO ON GIRL!’ at the same time.

Spark (and the rest of the series) is absolutely one of my 5 star reads of 2024. I think about these books constantly, and I’m genuinely chewing my nails off waiting for book 4. I need desperately to know what happens next.

If you like slow burn, majestic world building, feisty (and pig headed) FMCs, banter, shadow daddies, tip top plot lines and just all round good fantasy, read this. You wont regret it.

Wow!! I've seen this book on Instagram and I can now see why it's so popular! The writing has such a good flow to it and the plot had me on the edge of my seat.

The main character Diem is still figuring things out. She's slowly knowing her own mind but she's not fully there yet. I can't wait to see where book 2 takes this character and the plot. I also can't wait to read more about her mum and get some answers.

There is amazing chemistry between Diem and Luther. I can't wait to see how this develops too.

This book was fantastic—I couldn't put it down and finished it all in one sitting. Diem, the main character, is both compelling and deeply relatable. Her struggle against injustice and her role as the backbone of her family added such emotional depth to the story. The slow-burn romance was beautifully paced, allowing readers to truly connect with each character, and the stakes for them felt incredibly high. The plot is rich with unique magic and vibrant characters that make it unforgettable. It’s bound to leave you captivated.

An exciting start to what promises to be a wonderful series!

Such a brilliant, unique story, I absolutely fell in love with Diem. She is a fantastic example of a well fleshed out FMC, I found it exciting to go on the journey of this book with her. And don’t even get me started on Luther 🥵🥵, I love a true slow burn romance and penn Cole really hit the nail on the head with this one. I also felt the world building was well fleshed out and was immersed in the story and characters. I was left with a good amount of intrigue and excitement. Can’t wait for the next books!

But I didn’t choose to be a healer, nor did I choose to take my mother’s role. And I didn’t want gentle or delicate. I wanted to burn.

This was GOOD.
Amazing even.
I am in love with this book. For real. It was love at first chapter.

✨ simple yet effective world-building
✨ feisty FMC learning along with us
✨ rebellions and oppressive rulers
✨ absolutely gone MMC. he is gone. I am gone
✨ slow burn so slow it barely even started

I am gonna be realistic and say this is probably like 4 stars, but since I'm in love I don't give a fuck and I'm giving it 5 stars. 🥰 This was so fast-paced, and fun, and the vibes were there. Sure, some things were a bit predictable, but since I wanted the plot to go in that direction, I'm not mad! I simply love an angry FMC. I love how they are not trying to make themself seem small or less than. I gobble that right up. Go set fire to all the bastards.

The future love interest is showing a lot of potential. I'm talking new book boyfriend potential.
Super excited about what's happening next and immediately starting the next book!
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!

.Chosen one
.Enemies to lovers
.Secret identities
.Fated mates (maybe?)
.Caretaking when sick

I nearly DNF this book multiple times. It just didn't grab me in the beginning, but I kept strong and trusted the countless readers who said this book was fantastic. And I'm glad I’m stubborn as they get, because I began to see why it's so popular.

I’ll split this book in two segments. The first part dragged on a bit. And while I understand it’s necessary to introduce a new set of characters with their own idiosyncrasies, that there’s a world to be built and politics to be learnt, it did feel a little boring. If I were to rate this section alone, it would earn three stars. However, the second half is an entirely different story, deserving of a resounding five stars. Hence, the average rating of four stars.

Despite the slow start, I'm optimistic about the next book. There's potential for greatness, given the groundwork laid here. Diem is intriguing, albeit sheltered, and I'm eager to witness her character arc. Henri rubbed me the wrong way from the start, and Luther seems poised to become one of my favourite morally ambiguous villains (ehem… love interest). The supporting cast is equally interesting, and I'm eager to see how their stories intertwine in the sequel.

In this first book of four, we follow Diem Bellator, a young healer living in a world where mortals are despised by their rulers, offspring of the Gods known as the Descended. As she finds herself simultaneously drawn into the rebellion against the Descended and drawn to one of the Descended, she will have to decide where she stands and who she is.

I absolutely loved this book! This re-release of the original book (which was published in 2023) contains a bonus chapter from the point of view of secondary character Luther. As the rest of the book is from Diem's point of view, this provided a different take on the ending.
I have already added the sequel to my reading list for next month!

A recommended read for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses, From Blood and Ash, and The Serpent and the Wings of Night.

Thank you to Netgalley and Headline for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

4⭐️ 1🌶️

The first in a four part high fantasy series, The Kindred’s Curse, Spark of the Everflame came highly recommended and it did not disappoint!

Diem is a healer living a simple life in an oppressed mortal world ruled by the Descended. After her mother’s unexplained disappearance, Diem is set on a journey of self-discovery to unravel her secret past and to save her family.

Spark of the Everflame was a really enjoyable read! The unique magic system and world building is creative and feels unique even if some of the themes and tropes are common across the Romantasy genre.

It’s not romance heavy, there’s more political intrigue/ royal drama / mystery guiding the plot than romance. I’ve previously seen it compared to ACOTAR but I’d say it’s more similar to TOG in terms of romance and spice levels!

I did find Diem frustrating in parts. She’s feisty, witty and clever, but then goes and makes terrible decisions which don’t quite align. The second half Diem supposedly despises Luther for reasons which aren’t really convincing and so I was on a true rollercoaster of “I absolutely love her” and “argh she is irritating” for a while!

But on the whole I really enjoyed it, the cliffhanger ending had me looking for book two immediately and I can’t wait to see how the series concludes!

I knew from the very first page that this book would be one of the best reads of 2024!

Spark of the Everflame is the first book in the Kindred Curse series and it was an absolutely incredible introduction. I have read so many romantasy books that I find the genre to be rather repetitive so this book blew me away with how much it stands out from the crowd. I fell absolutely in love with characters and the beautifully crafted world. Penn Cole truly has a way with words because this book flowed so naturally and I became completely immersed in the story. The romance was the cherry on top of this utterly perfect book!

I need to get my hands on the sequel immediately because I am so incredibly eager to find out what happens next!

<b>I glared. "First of all, if you ever call me fragile again, I'll slice your precious royal balls off and shove them down your throat."
</b>
Diem Bellator is a healer living in the Mortal City, in a world invaded by the gods and ruled over years later by the Descended, their cruel and aloof offspring.

Her mother’s disappearance sees Diem taking over her duties as the Descended’s healer, caring for the dying King and constantly watched over by the (obviously gorgeous) heir. Not only must she reign in her burning anger and sharp retorts, she becomes aware of a violent mortal rebellion recruiting her to join the growing civil war.

I loved the sibling relationships! I always love seeing them represented in books and Teller was just the most funny, endearing, sweet younger brother!

<b>”What kind of sister would I be if I sent my favorite sibling-“
“You’re only sibling."
“My smartest sibling into the lion's den on his own?”</b>

This was fairly predictable - and I write this at 25% of the way in - knowing the romantic interest, the stirrings of a rebellion, Diem’s true heritage, power, and purpose. Yet, I understand why it’s so compelling to readers, especially those used to the YA/NA range.
One thing that did bother me was the repetition of <b>Burn</b> and <b>Fight</b> throughout. Every few pages repeated about four times. I get it, you’re angry. You want to fight. Either the foreshadowing was too heavy, or Penn Cole really wanted to get across the spark that’s always been inside Diem to set off the inferno.

Henri, one of the romantic interests (the childhood best friend) totally gave me Gale vibes from The Hunger Games.

And Luther… oh, Luther. Think Azriel, Casteel, Rhysand, Rowan, Raihn. Hard shell, soft, hidden, secretive, mysterious interior. Of course, the most powerful. The Prince. The protector.

<b>I hid behind false bravado and snarky jokes, while Luther's shield was forged with brooding stares and clenched jaws- but inside, we were one and the same. Inside, we rattled the bars keeping us trapped in lives we didn't choose. Inside, we roared with an insatiable craving for more.
Inside, we paced and we planned and we waited. Inside, we burned.</b>

I would recommend this if you enjoyed From Blood and Ash and The Serpent & the Wings of Night.

(Also I’ve just finished book two - and OH MY WORD YES. I’m so excited.)

luther hello??? 🧎‍♀️🧎‍♀️🧎‍♀️

in all seriousness though, i really enjoyed this, i feel like it was slow at times but the characters were so good and the dynamics were just chefs kiss!! i really want to find out more about the world and how everything will pan out in the next book because i genuinely have no clue where we could go from here, the ending was so so shocking to me, but also plotted out so so well once you look back at all the strings tying it together