4 stars

Heat of the Everflame book 3 in the series delivers another compelling chapter in The Kindred's Curse Saga. However I liked the first 2 books more.

It's still a very captivating romance amidst a backdrop of intriguing magic and political tension. The central relationship evolves satisfyingly, and the world-building remains rich and immersive.

While the pacing was sometimes a bit slow and some side characters could be more developed, the book successfully builds suspense and raises the stakes for the next book. Overall, a strong and enjoyable read for fans of romantasy, and I will be definitely picking up the next book in the series.


Thank you Netgalley for providing me an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Penn Cole has such a way with words and this may be my favourite story of hers so far. Enchanting writing, a magical setting and characters you root for.

Headlines:
All the lows
Power-up
Slooowww burn

This Everflame installment was a fast-paced, whiplashed kind of read that took me ages (because hello, page count) but I felt very invested in it. It was high on drama and the lows were immense. Cole is clever because she kept me reading with the slow burn and the need to see what was going to happen to Diem and Luther in general as well as in their relationship.

The guardian-descendant perspective grew in this story. I felt like I found out more particularly in relation to the guardians and their machinations. Vance was especially vile. We got many reveals about Diem's mother and some unexpected paternal reveals.

What was interesting about book three was that Diem travelled across the lands and met many of the crowns. That resulted in some unexpected outcomes and placed the reader face to face with the different magics which I enjoyed. I enjoyed seeing any of the gryverns on page and learning their differences. Sorae being the favourite of course.

I have to mention the length of this book. It's over 1000 pages and while it kept my interest totally, I did feel like there were 2-3 books in here and looking back, it's a lot of detail to consume and retain. I remain highly invested in this series, the characters and the magical world. I cannot believe she left us like that though!

Thank you to the publisher for the eARC.

Okay hear me out... I am really enjoying this series, however it does feel a little drawn and Diem did get a little on my nerves. HOWEVER it did feel like the deep breath before the epic finale which I am here and ready for, so although this probably was not y favourite of the series, I cannot wait for the epic finale because that ending has me in a chokehold.

This was such a good read - it is part of a series and what an awesome series it is. I cannot wait for the next book and honestly after that ending I need it asap!

The first two books in this series were amazing. When reading the first book I forgot the entire world around me, had no idea if we were anywhere near my bus stop and was just absorbed by this world and the characters. When I saw an arc for this book on Netgalley I therefore had to request a copy, even though my physical copy was already ordered. I was very happy that Headline granted me a review copy, but reading took more time than I anticipated. What a brick!

I have to admit that this book didn't have the same effect on me as the first two books. I think that's partly because there is so much happening in this book. A lot of new characters are introduced, a lot of new places are visited, a lot of new magic is discovered. We've barely recovered from one reveal and there's already another one. The book therefore feels a little chaotic and all over the place, which is made worse by the heroine of the story.

Our heroine is quite impulsive, and that's an understatement. And since she spends this book kidnapped, hunted and attacked, it means that she's constantly reacting to everything that's going on. There is little planning and therefore it feels like the heroine is just acting based on whims instead of thinking things through. There were quite a few moments where I could already predict what would go wrong, since it was easy to see why something was flawed to begin with.

However, despite all the chaos there were also quite some emotional and beautiful moments in this book. Luther might be one of the most amazing book boyfriends in history. I have to admit that his devotion goes a little far at times, but his love is so pure and real and unconditionally. He's the main reason I still cared about what was happening. I'm really really curious how the author is gonna get her characters out of this mess in the next book, though....

I am totally in love with this series and Heat of the Everflame does not disappoint! I absolutely devoured this and love the characters of Diem and Luther! I have loved seeing their relationship develop throughout the books so far although Luther is in my bad books for the secrets he's been keeping from Diem!! There is definitely a ramp up in plot and pace in this book with so many twists and turns I did not see coming.

This book made me feel all the emotions - I have laughed and cried my way through this in equal measure and after that cliffhanger ending (no spoilers but its a toughie) I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!!

This is a total must read for those into fantasy reading with spice, enemies to lovers and lots and lots of peril!

Could this be the best book in the series so far? I've been completely drawn into Diem's story from the very beginning and this book kept up the intrigue, political struggles, plot twists and romance that I enjoy. Though it's a really long book, there was plenty going on without it ever feeling like the story was being drawn out and dragging on. It held my attention throughout and I was absorbed in the twists and turns that Penn Cole took us on, following Diem's journey after the big cliffhanger of and ending in the second book. We see a lot of different settings in this book, with great descriptions to give us a taste of the lands and their people without being bogged down in it. There are new and old characters, friends and foes, descended and mortals. It was interesting to see the changes in some of Diem's relationships as the book progressed, with secrets revealed and dangers faced. Her path with Luther also faces its own challenges but you'll have to read for yourself and see if they finally get some time alone.

I did suss out several plot twists really quickly so I was finding it a little frustrating having this in my head as I'm reading - especially as for some, the reveals didn't come until much later in the story. That was, I think, the only draw back otherwise I was thoroughly enjoying seeing Diem grow into her power and her role, tackle the difficult political landscape and struggle with her morality when faced with challenges and enemies alike.

I received a free copy of this book. All views are my own.

This third book in the series picks up where the previous book left off. It cannot be read as a standalone. We follow Diem as she deals with the revelations from book 2 and develops her relationship with Luther.

This was a longer read than book 2 but was just as gripping. Plenty of action, new revelations, twists and some spice. I can't wait for book 4, which should complete the series, but has no pub date as of yet.

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

This is the third book in the series and pretty much picks up where the other left off.
I think in this one Diem doesn't always make the best decisions and I felt it was quite a long book and it dragged a bit in sections.
I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first two but maybe it will pick up in the next one.
Diem will maybe be given the time to grow and I want to give it a chance as it is a good series.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher.

Heat of the Everflame is a chunk of a book so I was worried about pacing issues. I shouldn’t have worried, so much happens and the anxiety at numerous points had me staying up late to read. This series is highly addictive and absorbing.
Diem had less character development in this instalment for me, I like her morals but maybe question her ability to make good decisions. She’s consistent in her decisions in that she literally just impulsively reacts.
Luther is by her side and there are so many amazing moments between the pair to warm the heart. He is utterly smitten but to have to wait till I think the last 10% of the book for there to be any spice was beyond frustrating for me. I feel it’s like the slow burn started all over again in that respect.
The action scenes are amazing, it’s vivid, intense and emotional. I’m still getting over half of this book!
Highly highly recommend this for any romantasy fan. This is one of those series that I would read again as there’s so much action, fun, impact and story to sink into.
The cliffhanger was extreme and I can’t believe I’m left waiting now!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.

Diem's journey leading up to this book has been one of growth and resilience. Starting this instalment as the newly crowned Queen of Lumnos, she embarks on a monumental journey. The book is packed with action, suspense, and excitement, as well as fantasy politics, battles, and wars. The world-building in this series is so incredibly immersive that it's easy to get lost within its pages.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, though at times it did feel a bit too long. It could easily have been split into two more digestible novels. There was a great deal of information to process, and the characters' growth from beginning to end is truly significant.

Diem and Luther remain our absolute favourites, but the miscommunication trope felt somewhat jarring at times, and occasionally Luther’s affection bordered on obsession. The slow burn lived up to its name, but it was rewarding to finally see these characters communicate openly and be together. I can't wait for the next book!

Continuing Diem’s story - I was so excited to read this one, I LOVE this series. The slow burn romance is done so well. I’m so invested in Luther and Diem!

Starts where book 2 ends so immediately back into the story. Some revelations are made and Diem’s reign does not start smoothly!

I love the found family in this series - how she gains close loyal friends and how her romantic relationship with Luther develops. The sense of loyalty and love between their little group is just my favourite!

This is such an emotional rollercoaster - I was well and truly hooked! I can’t wait for the next instalment, whenever that may be - it’ll defintely be worth the wait! That cliffhanger though - I’ll be thinking about it on the daily till the next book is out.

ARC copy provided by Headline & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

<b>“I intend to be a Queen that works for the good of all her people, regardless of their blood.”
</b>
Diem could burn me and I would probably accept I deserved it.

This one is slightly more slow-going, with more focus on the building of relationships, dealing with a lot of injuries, recovery; and discovering history and unravelling secrets . I did like the glimpse into the wider world and the other courts and how they conduct themselves. I low-key want to experience Umbros’s markets myself.

One slight grievance with this book - Diem just doesn’t learn. Her anger and big mouth keeps getting her into trouble. Whilst I love sassy, fiery, burn-down-the-world fmcs, it got frustrating how much trouble and notice she could have avoided if she just used common sense.

Whilst I enjoyed this, book two is by far my favourite (OBSESSED), perhaps because this one was a lot more romance heavy. Of course, this is a romantasy series, so it’s to be expected and I’m actually impressed how long it took for the spice to ramp up!

All that being said, I cannot wait until book four!

P.s. I LOVE TARAN

<b>”Everything alright?” Taran asked.
“Fine,” I snapped.
He looked back at Luther, then at me. “You two really need to just fuck this out of your system already.”</b>

I would recommend this if you enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses, Throne of Glass, The Serpent and the Wings of Night, or Book of Azrael.

*I started this series because I received this ARC and wanted to make sure I got a review in before it gets archived at the end of this month, and I have NEVER been so glad I started a series! I’ve loved every book and cannot wait for the next one.

This was A LOT. I feel like I was just thrown around on a rollercoaster, then flung off the edge at the end for good measure.

This book was SO good but also feels like they threw 2-3 books worth of information at us in one go. Like the other books, it was easy to read and follow what was happening which can often not be the case with action packed fantasy novels.

I did find it frustrating that EVERY time something important was going to be revealed, they would say something like “I’ll tell you tomorrow” - given the length of this book, I felt like we could have cut to the point a bit more. I understand a lot of this foreshadowing that they won’t have all the time in the world but considering Luther nearly died, yet they are all still acting like tomorrow is a given was a bit jarring.

I really love most of our characters, however I do find Diem to be a bit unlikeable at times. She is incredibly naive and quite arrogant, especially when talking to the other Crowns, which is so at odds with how she was in the first 2 books. I do see this as character grown that she is becoming more comfortable in her power, but it often comes across as unlikeable.
Taran is an absolute gem and comes out with some great one liners - he better make it out of this series unscathed!!

I hope next book we get more growth from Luther - as much as I love him, he spent 1000 pages feeling like just Diems lackey and he has so much more to give.

I need book 4 immediately 😭

🔥 BOOK REVIEW 🔥

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5/5)

The Heat of the Everflame is REAL, and I am obsessed. Thank you to NetGalley, Headline Publishing, and the wonderful Penn Cole for this ARC—I inhaled it like dragonfire. 🐉✨ And guess what? The paperback hits shelves March 11th, so mark your calendars! 📅

Diem Bellator is back, and she is not here to play nice. After that disastrous coronation (seriously, could it have gone any worse?), she’s stuck between two warring sides, trying to protect both the people she loves and the people she should love. But with secrets unraveling, Crowns scheming, and Luther making *everything* even more complicated (swoon 😍), Diem has to figure out who she can actually trust—and whether she’s strong enough to survive it all.

And let’s talk about the absolute madness of this book being over 1000 pages long… and yet, I still devoured it in under 24 hours. Sleep? Who needs it when there’s betrayals, magical chaos, and slow-burn tension so thick you could cut it with a sword? ⚔️🔥

This book gave me everything—high-stakes action, delicious tension, magical intrigue, and just the right amount of angst that had me SCREAMING. Enemies-to-lovers fans, you are FED. 🍽️🔥 The banter? Chef’s kiss. The world-building? Utterly immersive. The betrayals? Stabbed me in the soul. And the twists? Let’s just say, I did *not* see that ending coming. 😵‍💫

If you love complex heroines, morally gray love interests, and enough angst to fuel a very dramatic playlist, you need this book. Now excuse me while I go emotionally recover before book four destroys me completely. 😭💔

I'm a big fan of The Kindred's Curse Saga and Heat of the Everflame didn’t disappoint.

The world building was very impressive. You truly feel like you are going on a journey with the characters and discovering Emarion with them. Talking about the characters, I loved meeting new ones (Zalaric has my heart!)

You get a fast-paced plot with a lot of twists and turns and I could not put my kindle down. But you what wasn’t fast-paced? The relationship between Diem and Luther. Penn Cole is truly the queen of slow burns and I absolutely adore that.

What frustrated me with this book, was the very dumb decisions Luther and Diem make at times. Some part of the book also felt a little repetitive.

The cliffhanger had me screaming! I cannot wait for Burn to be published and to read the last book in this amazing series.The Kindred's Curse Saga is one I always recommend to everyone and really is a staple in the romantasy genre.

Thank you so much for NetGalley, the publisher&the author for an earc of this book!

I'm obsessed with this series and these characters! Almost 1000 pages in this book and I LOVED every single one of them. There's never a dull moment. The world expanded hugely, and if the plot isn't actively moving forward or an action scene isn't taking place, it's because there's important character or relationship development happening on page. We were given answers in this one, but so many breadcrumbs left to follow for the final book. The found family? The magic? Diem? LUTHER?! Perfection. That cliff hanger is killing me and we have no release date for the final book, but best believe whenever it releases I will drop everything to read it! In the meantime I'll be rereading the first three books over again.


Thank you so much to Headline and NetGalley for sharing rhe earc.

776 pages is not enough.

Now imagine the most popular romantasy series you’ve read and loved – just like that read, the world Penn Cole has created (and expands expertly in Heat of the Everflame) is not going to let you go. Sure, you’ll now be chasing the experience of reading Penn Cole’s series for a while, but you won’t take it back for the world.

And, you know the drill, these books will become ones you’d trade about anything to get to read for the first time again. I’ve read them all twice – and counting.

Heat of the Everflame is an example of why we love reading. Because you can be in a slump, thinking you’ve already read the best that BookTok or Bookstagram has to offer – and then stumble upon a series like this and start the process all over again. If you need a reminder that there will be another unexpected “Roman Empire” Romantasy series, do yourself a favor and pick up Heat of the Everflame.

The reader in me loves how completely immersive Diem and Luther’s story is. The literature PhD in me loves the gorgeous writing and expert pacing. The skeptic in me discovered that these are characters I could easily root for and believe in. And the book reviewer in me would pick this as her “one recommendation” for you, if pressed.

Here you’ll find slow burn (the best I’ve read) and eventual spice as the series progresses—and, trust that Heat of the Everflame DELIVERS in spice--political intrigue, found family, “he falls first.” Strength and moral compasses, deception and bargains – and THE best declaration from a love interest I’ve ever read.

This is my favorite series of the last few years. And each book gets better and better – so you know Heat is my favorite.

So far.

If NetGalley allowed more than five stars, this one would deserve it. Thank you so much for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. I simply cannot wait to see what's next from Cole.

Heat of the Everflame is an exhilarating and immersive read that had me hooked from beginning to end. The world-building is particularly impressive, with a richly detailed setting that feels both magical and grounded. The author’s ability to create a vivid, enchanting world really adds depth to the story and pulls you right in.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists, keeping you on the edge of your seat. There’s a great balance of action, intrigue, and emotional moments that make the story engaging and dynamic. The stakes feel high, and the tension builds steadily, making it hard to put the book down.

The characters are a highlight of the novel. They’re well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique motivations and growth throughout the story. The protagonist, in particular, stands out with her strength and complexity. The relationships between characters are nuanced and add significant depth to the narrative.

While the book is generally strong, there are a few moments where the pacing slows down a bit, and some plot points may feel a tad predictable. However, these are minor issues in what is otherwise a gripping and well-crafted story.

Overall, Heat of the Everflame is a fantastic read for fans of fantasy. It combines a compelling plot with rich world-building and strong character development, making it a standout in the genre. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an exciting and immersive fantasy adventure.