Thorns & Fire by Helen Scheuerer

Author : Helen Scheuerer

Book : Thorns & Fire

/Fantasy Romance/

/The Ashes of Thezmarr Book 2/

Publication date : July 31, 2025

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Blurb:

A golden thread joined them, a bond that went deeper than love – and it had nearly destroyed them.

Wren Embervale and Torj Elderbrock share a dark and bloody history. With Thezmarr on the brink of another war, and overwhelmed by the force of their feelings for one another, Torj discovers there is far more to their bond than mere passion. The legendary Warsword is determined to protect Wren at all costs, even if it means lying to her . . . Even if it means losing her forever.

Meanwhile, Wren is struggling to find her place in the world – both as an advanced student of alchemy at the ancient academy of Drevenor, and as one of the heirs to a lost kingdom. With the midrealms once again facing destruction, Wren must decide: loyalty or liberation? Legacy or love?

As new political players emerge, Wren discovers that her gift for alchemy is more powerful than she ever imagined – and that it could tear the kingdoms apart.

Will she and Torj find their way back to each other, or will the ancient magic that binds them become their undoing?

My thoughts:

I adore the whole The Ashes of Thezmarr world and was ecstatic that Wren and Torj have their own story. After devouring Iron & Embers in a few days and loving every bit of it, I was really anxious to start Thorns & Fire. But gods, not only it didn't disappoint, but I loved it even more than the first book!

The story continues shortly after where the events of the previous book left us.

Searching for answers on so many levels for our main characters, while at the same time trying to prevent another war until it's too late.

Fell in love with Wren's character from the very beginning because of her drive for revenge that was absolutely justified by everything she went through. In this book, we witness her character grow and learn from her mistakes but still at the same time unapologetic about her skills and drive. Although she changed, it was fascinating to witness how Torj, little by little, came to terms and loving even the Poisoner part of her that he admonished in the first book.

Amazing and emotional chemistry between them and them tackling the bond issue back and forth was entering to read among the trails they've faced.

The ending was such an emotional rollercoaster that I wish it was prolonged so we can stew a while longer in all the ups and downs that assaulted us. The final few lines were so perfect that they stuck in your throat from the emotional charge.

Judging by the end of the book, I can't imagine the tension and the emotional charge the next book will hold, and I definitely can't wait to read what happens!