"A Fate Forged in Fire" | Reviewed by Andi Kloppe

“Eragon” meets “House of the Dragon” in the romantasy adventure, “A Fate Forged in Fire,” by Hazel McBride, a classic enemies to lovers tale with all of the exciting twists and turns that a world of magic and dragons can offer. McBride provides extensive world building in this first installment of a duology that will have readers immersed in the world of Erisocia. 

Erisocia has traditionally been ruled under a matriarchy, however, there has not been a female heir in centuries. A line of kings has taken to the throne, and the True Religion, who has anti-magic practices and teachings, has become more prominent. Aemyra Daercathian has been hiding in plain sight in the forges of Tir Teine, biding her time until she lays her claim to the throne that is rightfully hers by birth.  Aemyra is a Duileach, meaning she possesses elemental powers, in her case fire, and has the ability to bond with a Beathach. Her desired Beathach: a Dragon. More specifically, the king's dragon.  

When the mad king dies and Aemyra’s father finally comes for her after years of being raised in secret by her adoptive parents, she has no choice but to attempt to bond with the dragon to strengthen her claim and gain the power she needs to take back her throne. However, the royal family and the Chosen leaders of the True Religion are not ready to give up the throne so easily. The king's eldest son, Evander, has claimed the throne. His younger brother, Fiorean, is making every effort to keep him on it. 

After a quest for vengeance goes wrong, Aemyra finds herself a prisoner in the very caisteal she wished so much to rule from. War begins to appear more inevitable, especially with her father leading her armies. Forced into an unlikely alliance with Fiorean, Aemyra begins to realize he may be her only hope at reclaiming what is rightfully hers without costing the lives of thousands of soldiers in both armies. 

Aemyra is thrown into a political battle that not only has her questioning her ability to rule as queen, but also fighting for her life.

Be prepared for thrilling fight scenes, desperate plots, romance, betrayal, and more in this Celtic-based romantasy adventure. “A Fate Forged in Fire,” by Hazel MacBride will have you anxious to know what happens next to the main characters as alliances are formed and broken, plans are made and shattered, bonds are put to the test, and it becomes clear that no one can be trusted.  

This book contains a content warning as some themes could be distressing to some readers.

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