When you get sent in invitation to read an early copy of one of your favourite authors new book, you drop everything. This was a masterclass in yearning, heartbreak, and high-stakes fantasy.

Helen Scheuerer has done it again—Thorns and Fire is an emotional gut punch wrapped in exquisite worldbuilding, powerful character arcs, and the most delicious slow-burn yearning. Wren and Torj’s push-and-pull had me clutching the pages, and the way Helen writes relationships—messy, aching, and real—continues to be unmatched. The plot moves with purpose, setting up an epic finale while giving space for characters like Thea to shine (thank the Furies we’re getting more Thea content!). And Delmira’s return? A literal phoenix moment—I cannot wait to see how that thread explodes in book three.

This sequel never feels like a placeholder; it builds. The tension is tangible, the politics are layered, and the emotional payoff is earned. Watching Wren stand her ground, face betrayal, and still fight for her world—and for herself—was a highlight. I am feral for this series and would happily read Helen’s grocery list if it were written in the same tone. But this? This was art. Bring on the finale—I am so ready.

Thank you PanMacmillan and Netgalley for the ARC copy!

I have always said that Wren is without a doubt my favourite character in this series, and so I can’t tell you how excited I was to receive a copy of this book in my inbox!!! I was on ‘Do not disturb’ for the rest of the day.

I honestly cannot get enough of this series! Thorns & Fire had me HOOKED! I couldn’t put it down and I finished it in a day!

I absolutely adore Wren and Torj! Wrens heartbreak and her process in dealing with her emotions isn’t at all rushed, which I loved. She is angry and trying to make sense of what Torj did and where it leaves them. The tension in this book was off the charts! 🥵

As well as being introduced to some new and rather interesting characters (or villains) we also get reunited with Thea, Wilder, Cal and my favourite side character and life of any party, Kipp! This man and his mischievous ways will always make me laugh.

I don’t want to say too much to try and avoid giving away spoilers, but the ending had me shocked! I need answers Helen! Loved this book and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one!

Thank you soooo much @panmacmillan @helenscheuerer & @netgalley for pre approving me for this

— 5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"That man burns for you, Wren. The sooner you both catch alight the better, lest you set the whole world ablaze."

📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 448 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Helen Scheuerer
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Bramble, Tor UK
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 31 July 2025

What you can expect:
— Adult Epic Fantasy Romance
— Third Person X Dual POV
— Royal Alchemist X Warsword
— Hate-To-Love
— Reluctant Bodyguard
— Grumpy X Grumpy
— Forced Proximity
— Academic Setting
— Found Family
— Only One Horse
— Forbidden Romance
— Fated Love
— Deadly Trials & Prophecies
— 'Touch Her And Die'

𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Thorns & Fire is the second instalment in The Ashes of Thezmarr trilogy by author Helen Scheuerer. Whilst this series is advertised for its ability to be read separately from The Legends of Thezmarr series, I personally recommend reading that series prior to this one for better emotional impact, overall enjoyment and understanding. This book kicks off almost immediately where things left off in Iron & Embers as our entire cast of characters are left reeling in the aftermath of the Battle of Drevenor. Bonds have been irrevocably severed and the emotional impact of the choices made at the end of book one are a consistent theme explored throughout the duration of the book. Thorns & Fire has yet again proven the magic that sparks upon Scheuerer's fingertips as I have found myself starting and finishing this book within a twenty-four hour period in my desperation to predict where the story is leading us towards. I was like a woman possessed as I found myself unable to put this utterly addictive and emotionally devastating tale down as I battled with my desire to savour it alongside my growing need for answers. This book wonderfully guides the reader further into the intimate depths of our main characters' vulnerabilities and fears as the stakes continue to get higher and more impactful with the consequences more severe than ever. The well-paced story masterfully balanced supporting the growth of our compelling cast of characters alongside the thrilling plot that continues to grow and build with every new chapter. I continue to feel in awe of the author's storytelling as I seem to already find myself eagerly and impatiently awaiting the conclusion to this spellbinding trilogy that has had me ensnared in its grip from the very beginning. I'm beyond grateful that the final book is due to release late-2025 and I look forward to seeing how the author decides to conclude this unmissable story. The Ashes of Thezmarr is not a Romantasy to be missed in 2025, so please take this as your sign to pick it up if you haven't already.

𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭:
The plot within Thorns & Fire begins mere weeks after the Battle of Drevenor as we follow Torj Elderbrook in his mission to rescue the abducted Queen Reyna alongside his fellow Warsword, Wilder Hawthorne. War is once again brewing throughout the Midrealms with dissent and unrest threatening the precarious peace that many have tried desperately to nourish after the devastation left from the previous war. With the rise of a nefarious rebel group threatening to change the world as they know it with an unmasked man at the helm, the need for answers is more important than ever as magic itself becomes threatened. I really loved how much higher the stakes were raised throughout the duration of the book. The power of a Warsword was always seen as unstoppable and unbeatable force with their Furies-given strength so it was interesting to watch them crumble under a threat they had never before faced. To see their morality challenged offered a new perspective that opened up new discussions and explored a deeper sense of vulnerability that helped me feel connected to the characters and the challenges that they face. I often find with trilogies that a sequel can unfortunately sometimes suffer from 'middle book syndrome' as it struggles to live up to the expectations set at the end of book one, however I'm relieved to say that this has not been the case in Thorns & Fire. Every single chapter, character development and plot progression has felt intentional in its impact to drive the story towards what I anticipate to be an epic conclusion to the series. I savoured every new revelation that was dropped into our laps as some answers were unveiled whilst introducing further questions waiting to be explored. Wren Embervale and Torj find themselves once again pushed to their limit in a world determined to test their love and loyalty for one another. This is an emotional ride from start to finish, so I definitely recommend having your tissues on-hand for when you'll be in need of them.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬:
Wren Embervale is such a wonderfully complex character that I have loved getting to see grow and evolve over the duration of the six current core books that exist within the Thezmarr universe. The way she has grown and strives to channel her rage and heartbreak into something positive was such a wonderful transition to experience after seeing her struggle to lift herself back up from her lowest point in life. Her strive and determination towards discovering a cure was both admirable yet heart-breaking as I experienced rage over the unfair expectations placed upon her shoulders. Wren is expected to bare many burdens upon her shoulders without complaint and it made me feel so emotionally connected to her journey. Her despair and fear over not being enough to save the innocents of the Midrealms really gutted me as I desperately yearned for her success above all else. Seeing how far Wren has come on her journey has been such a rewarding and fulfilling experience as we are able to see her willingness to be more open towards the human connection and companionship that she had once openly rejected out of the fear of potentially facing that loss that ultimately comes with experiencing love. Seeing Wren face the trauma of her past and use it as motivation to strive for the future was the evolvement I craved and needed to see, and I honestly think that the author has done such a beautiful job at unravelling Wren's character just to build her back up brick-by-brick. Her loyalty and commitment to those she loves in unmatched and it was a joy to witness her begin to discover her authoritative voice with their unwavering support and belief in what she has to author. The way she commands a room and refuses to be undermined by peers and superiors alike had me audibly applauding, and I cannot wait to see what comes next for Wren's character in the final instalment in this trilogy. Wren is one of those characters that sticks with you for a very long time, and it has been nothing but a joy getting to follow her on this tumultuous yet impactful journey.

Torj Elderbrook you beautiful, unwaveringly strong-minded and sometimes frustrating man that I cannot help but love with my heart, soul and entire being. I can't lie... there was several moments I yearned for the ability to reach into my kindle and shake the stubbornness out of this man. Yet, at the same time I fully understand the struggles and motivations centred around his character so ultimately his decisions did make a lot of sense in context. I really feel for Torj as his notable reputation as the legendary 'Bear Slayer' Warsword has created this narrative that follows him within his everyday life for good and for bad. Torj is this incredibly strong and dependable man who feels a lot whilst being afraid of being an emotional burden on others. His yearning for friendship and companionship to form his own version of a family was devastating as Torj is the man who gives his everything to the people in life whilst refusing to expect anything back in return. His selfless nature and innate goodness are a huge part of his identity making it impossible to not root for as he's basically the human embodiment of a golden retriever. The lack of answers surrounding his missing grandmother really tugged on my heartstrings to the point that I desperately need Scheuerer to have mercy on my battered heart by resolving this plot-line on a positive note. Poor Torj has suffered and sacrificed more than enough on behalf of others, so now it's finally his turn to be happy. He's nothing but deserving of having that love and loyalty returned to him tenfold and I loved getting to see him realise that he's not just an extension of Wren. Seeing him to realise that the people within his life also care for him outside of Wren nearly had me sobbing as it was apparent that Torj never expected to be liked for who he is as his own independent person. Torj is such a strong character and devoted love interest who remains one of my all-time favourite book boyfriends, and I cannot wait to see him fight for the love and life that he knows he deserves in the final book in The Ashes of Thezmarr trilogy.

𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭:
I fear author Helen Scheuerer saw us all comment on the yearning within book one and said 'lol hold my pen' because I beg your finest pardon? The angst? The yearning? The PAIN? Took me out. Deceased. RIP Erin... because my god was I overwhelmed by the rollercoaster emotions that I experienced throughout the relationship development between Wren and Torj from beginning to end. There's no denying the electric connection between both characters and I had a great time getting to see them unravel over time as they fought as hard as they could to deny that connection. The yearning written between Wren and Torj was absolute perfection as it left me on the edge of my seat feeling ever variety of emotion possible. The frustration, sadness and sense of loss was palpable between both characters as I desperately wished for the ability to make them work it all out by smashing them together like Barbies. The beginning of Thorns & Fire really did hurt, but I also had the best time getting to experience the progression that was masterfully written through to the end as I'm weak for a slow burn dynamic filled with angst and hard worl. The wit and banter that exists between both characters never fails to make me laugh as they strive to get the last word in out of sheer stubbornness. The way Wren and Torj regard one another as equals despite their differences in station was wonderful to see as it helped their love story feel all the more authentic and honest. There's no denying that both characters love hard without restriction and it was beautiful to experience the truth finally laid out into the open. The way they learned how to better communicate felt hard-earned and wholly authentic after the many struggles that we have witnessed them face. The intimate insights into their fears and vulnerabilities done wonderful job at humanising both characters and making them all the more relatable to the reader. Seeing them learn how to grow and evolve as a couple was a fundamentally important development within their relationship and I cannot wait to witness Wren and Torj continue to grow in love and strength as a couple in their bid for a happy ending in the final book of the series.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
In conclusion, Thorns & Fire was a strong addition to The Ashes of Thezmarr trilogy which saw the author masterfully weaving the intricate nature between our two main characters alongside a compelling plot that continues to grow in strength with every release. That ending was an emotional whirlwind that left my jaw practically on the floor in shock and devastation. I would happily read more book series' centred around this world and its compelling cast of side characters that have been wonderfully introduced, so I cannot wait to see if the author decides that there is more stories waiting to be told within the Thezmarr universe. Author Helen Scheuerer has long solidified herself as an auto-buy author of mine, so it's no surprise to say that I already have book three on preorder as I eagerly await what I anticipate to be a thrilling conclusion to Wren and Torj's story in a currently unnamed book three, predicated to release sometime November/December 2025.

𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲.

When Pan Macmillan sends you one of your most anticipated reads of the year, you drop EVERYTHING and make it your priority!!
I am such a huge fan of Helen's work, and I am absolutely feral for these characters. I knew going into this book I was going to love it, and after finishing it, I can confirm: I LOVE IT! It was such an effortless read and I felt immediately pulled back into the world.
This book (and the series as a whole) ties in so wonderfully with the characters we know and love from Legends of Thezmarr. Wren, who has firmly claimed the top spot as my favourite character from the Thezmarr world, is still working through her trauma, and Helen handles this so realistically. She hasn't simply moved on, and it hasn't been brushed over; her grief is shifting as she learns to cope. I think a lot of readers, myself included, are going to see elements of themselves in her journey.
Torj....oh my. This man is SUFFERING. The yearning!! Also - Torj Elderbrock blushing is my new kink.
There is a lot going on in this book so at times it felt like some storylines and side characters don't get explored in as much depth. But ultimately, this book has set us up for the most epic of finales.

Thank you so much to Pan Macmillan for the ARC via NetGalley and for giving me the opportunity to share my honest thoughts on this book. I massively appreciate it!

I loveeeeeee this series, i literally cannot wait for book 3!

Highly recomment to all fanstay/Romantasy lovers, it will keep you gripped the entire way though.

I read the book in 2 sittings, would have read it in one if i didn't have to work!

Wow wow wow..
I cannot believe I have finished this masterpiece already and have to wait for the next one.
The spice was really turned up and I loved seeing Torj and Wren overcome so much together.
Emotionally this was powerful, I sobbed so many times because the depth of the writing and feelings Wren had to confront were so moving and heart wrenching.
Right at the end I was ready for more trauma but so many pieces came together in a very clever way, I’m now fired up for the finale and can’t wait to see how the gang tackle their latest hurdle.
Also, not a spoiler but when you get to the words IRON AND EMBERS.. oh my gosh.. brilliant!

R E V I E W

Thorns & Fire by Helen Scheuerer

☆☆☆☆☆

Advanced Reader Copy graciously provided by Pan Macmillan | Tor Bramble via Netgalley

When I received the invitation to read an advanced copy of this book, I was absolutely over the moon. Having read The Oremere Chronicles by the same author years ago and then The Legends of Thezmarr last year, it is clear this author has gone from strength to strength, honing her craft and creating addictive masterpieces of fantasy.

After binge-reading Iron & Embers earlier this year, the first in the Ashes of Thezmarr series, set five years after the original Legends books, I knew what I was in for with this sequel; an intricately woven but flawed world, a little bit of heartache and pining, and a whole lot of world-defying love as has become indicative of this author's work.

I felt the initial premise for Thorns & Fire was a little tenuous, with the bonds at play between Torj and Wren all but ensuring their forced separation and mutual heartbreak would not last. That being said, Scheuerer could publish her grocery list at this point, and I'd probably rate it five stars. Even with the knowledge that these two would ultimately find their way back to one another, I was gripped to every agonizing page they were apart, tormented by every secret they kept and gleefully celebrating every time they touched or they engaged in their top notch verbal repartee. Wren challenged Torj at every turn and refused to let him off the hook for anything, a character trait I can only relate to.

This may have been the middle book of a trilogy, but it was by no means a filler; establishing both the unbreakable connection between Torj and Wren but also between them and their allies, all of whom they're going to need to call upon in the final book if the ending of this story is any indication. I was so glad the author went easy on us in that final chapter, however, because my heart couldn't take any more and it was refreshing to see Torj stand by his words, have faith in their love and stand by Wren's side, demonstrating how open communication can win the day. I can't wait until the final instalment!

Fist of all, thank you so much to PanMacmillan and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book, because I'm FERAL for Helen's books, and having the chance to read the new instalment of the Thezmarr adventures she writes is the highlight of my year.
And OH BOY, it did NOT disappoint!
Picking up right after the shocking ending of Iron&Embers, our Thea navigates her role at Drevenor Academy, where's she's trying to replicate an alchemic process that could save the realm. Torj is... Torj and he's a man OBSESSED.
I cannot write an in depth review without spoiling stuff to you guys but YOU. ARE. NOT. READY.
This book is everything, the longing, the obsession, the tension, the politics... Things are changing swiftly, new villains and powers are coming into play, and I absolutely loved it!
I can say I've bookmarked and highlighted large part of this book :D
It's so good. SO. GOOD.
I love how the characters of the Legends of Thezmarr come and go seamlessly from this spin-off, and I can't wait where the next book takes us, because things are getting JUICY.
I'm so excited for everyone to read this book, and can't wait for the next!

The fact that we are 3.5 months out from the release of this one and I just really need book three makes me want to cry!

I am really enjoying this series, and I think i enjoy it more than the blood and steel series! I could not stop reading this installment and i can not get enough of Wren and Torj! The angst dynamic in the beginning of this one was so good, and I’m very happy it didn’t resolve within the first few chapters as we have seen from other series.
I feel like this one wasn’t as strong as the first one, and the plot lost me a little bit in the middle. However it ended so strong and I’m am dying for book three!

I am so thankful this one ended up in my inbox and I can’t wait to read the conclusion!

I couldn’t put this down! Thorns & Fire is everything I hoped for after Iron & Embers—and more. The romance gets hotter, the twists are wild, and the characters just keep growing on me. Helen Scheuerer knows exactly how to pull you into her world and keep you hooked. If you love fantasy with strong women, steamy moments, and lots of emotion, you’ll love this. I’m already counting down to the next one!

*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

Thorns and Fire
By Helen Scheuerer
Release Date 31st July
Rating 5 stars 9.67 CAWPILE

I cannot get over this book and I do not think I will when I received the email inviting me to read this I threw out my reading plans because I knew I was going to pick this up.

This was a wild ride and the emotions I felt with this, my heart was tore apart, I cried, it was healed only to be ripped apart and then patched together again. I was looking at people calling this low fantasy this is not low fantasy the world has the whole making of an epic fantasy, and my heart rate and moments I do not want to tell you what it was.

Wren and Torj are electric and not just because of the magic, I felt their need, their heartbreak and everything.

I now have to wait for the last book in the series because I need to know how this wraps on if I am good can I have it now.

I shall await for all of the people to fall in love with this series like I have and wait for the last to have more of Wren and Torj although I am going to be very upset when it is over. I need them like I need air. I feel I have been soul bonded to the two of them and I never want it to break. This series has engrained into my soul and I cannot wait to yap about it with all the romantasy loving people.

Instagram post goes up 14/4

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"He would do it all again to keep her safe. He would do it a hundred times over if it meant Wren still walked the midrealms, even if he couldn't walk beside her."

I loved diving back into this world, and this book starts off pretty much from where Iron and Embers finished.

In this book we have:

⚔️ Forced Proximity
🧪 Fated love
⚔️ Bodyguard/ Touch her and die
🧪 Academy
⚔️ Secrets and betrayal

Wren is heartbroken and angry as her and Torj try and navigate their new positions in each others lives. As a new threat spreads around the realm, Wren once again finds herself alone with the warsword who broke her heart, much to her annoyance.
The yearning, the angst, the sexual tension this book delivers on all fronts!
There's traitors and schemes, and all the things you'd expect as new political players emerge. Whilst trying to work together against this new threat, Wren makes startling discoveries about her homeland and her magic. With all this going on, can the Alchemist and the Warsword find their way back to each other, or will they remain at odds.
I devoured this book in one day and can not wait to find out where they go from here after the twist at the end!

This story had all the exciting stuff you come to expect from Helen's books. It's a must-read for any Romantasy lovers. I would definitely suggest the Legends of Thezmarr series first, although this is following different main characters it also contains those we know and love from the previous series.

Thank you to Pan Macmillan for the arc of this book for my honest review ❤️

“𝙙𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙧, 𝙞’𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙨𝙠𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙞 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙪𝙥 𝙤𝙛 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙥𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙗𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧…”

wren embervale and torj elderbrock share a complicated and bloody past. with thezmarr on the brink of war once again and emotions running high, torj is forced to confront the truth about their bond - and the painful choices he must make to protect her. meanwhile, wren is torn between legacy and love, loyalty and liberation, as her alchemical powers continue to grow… powers that could either save the realms or destroy them

i was so excited to receive an arc of this book - after absolutely loving the first one, i couldn’t wait to dive back into this world… and it was everything i hoped for and more

helen’s writing is beautiful. lyrical, emotional, immersive. she knows how to pull you into the story and never let you go. the pacing was perfect, and i loved the balance between emotional moments, worldbuilding, and action

one of my favorite things about this book is how seamlessly helen weaves in characters from the legends of thezmarr series. it felt like a mini reunion in the best way - getting to see what thea and wilder are up to?? loved it. and i adored getting to know cal and kip more deeply this time around. their dynamic brought so much heart to the story. i also really enjoyed how we’re continuing to learn more about the newer characters we met in book one - each one adds something unique, and it’s been so fun watching their relationships grow and shift alongside wren’s journey

now let’s talk about wren and torj. the tension. the longing. the heartbreak. it’s all chef’s kiss. they clearly care so deeply for each other, but torj’s secrets are a constant weight between them, pulling them further apart even as they want nothing more than to be together. it made for such an angsty, emotional read and i loved every minute of it

and the last 10% of the book? i had to physically close my kindle and just breathe. i’m still recovering. twist after twist, and that final moment?? no spoilers, but i gasped out loud. multiple times

overall, this is a stunning continuation of wren and torj’s story. a perfect blend of romance, magic, politics, and personal growth. helen scheuerer just keeps delivering, and i am so ready for book three

“𝙛𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙞 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝙞 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨. 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪… 𝙞 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚. 𝙞 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙬𝙧𝙚𝙣. 𝙞 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙤 𝙗𝙖𝙙𝙡𝙮 𝙞 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚”

★★★★.5

Thorns and Fire was another strong and immersive installment in Helen Scheuerer’s epic romantic fantasy series. I genuinely can’t say if I liked book one or this one more, because they both struck a similar balance of enjoyment and tension that kept me reading.

This series doesn’t rely on high-speed pacing or constant jaw-dropping twists; instead, it leans into a slower, character-driven narrative that prioritizes emotional arcs, inner conflict, and complex relationships. That might not be for every fantasy reader, but it really works here. There’s a steady pull to the story, and even when the plot itself isn’t racing forward, the layered character dynamics kept me deeply engaged.

One of the most compelling elements of this series is the ensemble cast. The side characters bring so much depth, warmth, and color to the world. Whether it’s the camaraderie, loyalty, or occasional clash, their interactions are rich and well-written, and I honestly look forward to their scenes just as much as the main romance—sometimes even more.

As for the central romance—Wren and Torj—it’s definitely a rollercoaster. Their relationship is constantly shifting, often due to miscommunication or emotional withholding, but that’s also what makes their connection feel raw and realistic. Torj, especially, really stood out to me in this book. He’s stoic, deeply loyal, and carries a quiet emotional intensity that made him incredibly compelling. His restraint, especially when it comes to protecting Wren—even at the cost of his own (and her) feelings—felt like a core part of who he is.

Wren, on the other hand, is more unpredictable. She’s fierce and passionate, but also frustrating at times with her hot-and-cold behavior. She pushes Torj away only to pull him close again, and that inconsistency made their dynamic a little rocky for me.

Now, a personal point: the spice.
The first half of the book was exactly my kind of pacing—focused on the characters, their inner growth, and the gradual development of their relationship. But in the second half, the romance turned very physical, very quickly. For me, the shift felt abrupt and a little overwhelming, with several scenes placed at moments that felt emotionally or contextually out of sync. I would’ve preferred a more balanced approach where the emotional payoff wasn't overshadowed by physical tension. That’s 100% a personal preference, and I know many readers will love the intensity and passion shown here, especially since the scenes now reflect a deeper emotional connection rather than escapism or denial (as was the case in book one).

Plot-wise, this installment does move at a slower pace, but I think that’s a conscious choice given the series format. We're clearly building toward something bigger, and while I would’ve loved a slightly more dramatic conclusion to set up the next book, there’s still enough intrigue and unresolved tension to keep me hooked for what’s to come.

Overall, Thorns and Fire continues to build a rich, emotionally driven fantasy world full of layered characters, slow-burning romance, and a deep sense of loyalty and love. I’m excited to see where the story leads next, and I’m in this for the long haul.


Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

5⭐️ 3🌶️

- Mate/ Soul bonds
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Bodyguard / charge
- Touch-her-and-💀
- Dark academia
- Forced proximity
- Heir to the throne
- Found Family

“I’m his to protect…and he’s mine.”

Following Torj’s ultimate sacrifice, breaking their soul bond to save Wren’s life, it appears that the two are destined to remain apart. However, as dark storm clouds gather and Thezmarr stands on the brink of war once more, their fates are once again intertwined. Delmira has awoken, and an Embervale Queen must rise to take her rightful place on the throne to protect the midrealms. Meanwhile, Wren and Torj find themselves at the centre of a prophecy that foretells the fate of their world and will test their power, love, and loyalty to the limit. They must swiftly decide whether the ancient magic that binds them will ultimately be their salvation or their downfall…

This was one of my most anticipated reads of 2025, thank you so much Pan MacMillan for the ARC! The second book in the Ashes of Thezmarr series was everything I hoped for. Thorns and Fire is a captivating romantasy with a slow-burn which will keep you hooked until the end!

Like Iron and Embers, book two alternates between Torj and Wren’s POV with short chapters and fast pacing. The plot picks up a few weeks after Iron and Embers, as Torj / Wilder and Wren/ Thea are quickly thrown into new respective quests. There’s lots of tension and angst in the first half as the main characters try to figure out their love lives whilst seeking a way to turn the tide of the impending war! It’s a brilliant adventure with lots of twists and turns in the plot. By the end we are left with as many questions as answers on a nail-biting cliffhanger!

I absolutely love Scheuerer’s world-building; the scale and immersive experience of her books are I think among the best in Romantasy! The Ashes of Thezmarr series offers so much - there are epic adventures, thrilling quests, formidable villains, and hilarious banter. The cast of characters is brilliant, with well-developed arcs that keep you engaged. You’ll find familiar faces from the Legends of Thezmarr series (I’m still in love with Kipp after six books - I’m here until the very end holding out for his HEA!), and there are also new faces and political power plays too.

While I still recommend reading The Legends of Thezmarr first to fully appreciate the characters and their world, Thorns and Fires definitely has enough memories and reflections to make it make sense as a great standalone series too.

I was so excited to read this. I loved it and can’t wait for the final instalment to this epic trilogy. But at the same time I also never want it to end!

Helen remains the undisputed queen of Romantasy! This next chapter was everything I could have hoped for and so much more! The Legends of Thezmarr remains the best Romantasy series I’ve ever read and this continuation of it in the Ashes of Thezmarr is phenomenal. Thorns and Fire is filled with all the angst, banter, unexpected twists Helen is known for. It is so perfectly written balancing, plot, action, spice and a magic beyond compare. A galaxy of stars! ✨