First, I didn't finish "The Fiery Crown." I tried several times to push my way through, but I couldn't.

I loved the description of the book. I thought the concepts sounded great. So, I found myself very disappointed.

Here were my problems with the book and why I decided not to finish it.

1. I didn't care about any of the characters. "The Fiery Crown" is this second book in a series, so perhaps the author didn't feel the need to develop the characters. I didn't read the first book. I thought about it, but I worried I'd have the same negative experience with the character development.
2. There were too many scenes that were little more than talking heads discussing the past or events that were playing out somewhere else. I wanted some action and progress toward a goal. Those things weren't there. Perhaps later in the book, the story and characters take positive turns. If so, I gave up before I got there.
3. There was some action, but as a reader, I felt as if I were taking a stroll through the setting, overhearing bland characters talking about things that weren't interesting.

I do wish I had a more positive review because there are some ideas in this story that caught my interest, and I had high expectations for this book. I won't review this on my blog because I don't review books I can't finish.

This book definitely improves upon the previous, as the stakes get higher and the plot finally shifts to fighting the enemy. The first half deals with the plotting as Lia and Con along with the other try to decide the best way to take down Anure. They also grow closer despite their difference of opinions that come from the very different lives they’ve lived. There are still moment when they are able to more vulnerable with each other. Which I think is especially hard for Lia, whose lived her life behind a mask, hiding who she really is, and Con accepts her as she is.

The last half of the book had me on my edge. It was odd though, because it turned out Anure himself wasn’t that big of presence when Lia is eventually captured after the plan goes wrong. The wizards whom he employs are a much bigger threat. I wasn’t expecting anything to happen to Lia but when she did actually die (briefly) it was very tragic, especially when Con, who was miles away could feel her die, and gave up hope. Lia was incredibly brave and strong and really showed her endurance. Ambrose pops up again, and brings her back, thankfully and the fight is back on. I can’t wait to read how this series will conclude!

I received this ARC from NetGalley. All opinions stated here are my own.

With some series, the books can be read as stand-alone novels. The Forgotten Empires series is not one of them. I was not far into "The Fiery Crown" before I realized I was missing too much backstory, so I bought and read the first book (The Orchid Throne). The interaction between Queen Euthalia of Calanthe and her husband, Conri, the Slave King (and former Crown Prince of Oriel) are quite amusing, especially as they have potentially incompatible primary goals, Euthalia (Lia) to protect Calanthe, the last "free" kingdom, at all costs, and Conri to kill Emperor Anure, in revenge for what Anure did to Conri's family and homeland, along with numerous other former kingdoms. Both Lia and Con have significant secrets, especially Lia, which leads to a lot of contention between them, as their respective behavior often infuriates the other one. However, one area where there is a meeting of the minds (and bodies) is their intimate relations. Fantasy novels often contain sex scenes, but the quality is not always the best. Ms. Kennedy, however, has crafted some very well-written expressive and erotic scenes between Lia and Con. When not enjoying each other's company or antagonizing each other, they and their advisors try to figure out how to kill the Emperor and save Calanthe. The book contains plenty of action and intrigue. The ending contains some rather significant surprises and sets up well the next book in the series.

I received a review copy via NetGalley.

The Fiery Crown by Jeffe Kennedy is the 2nd book in her Forgotten Empires series. The story picks up immediately following the ending of the first book, The Orchid Throne. Lia and Conri are now married, and though they are both attracted to each other, especially in bed; they both have their own differences how to move forward to fight the evil Emperor Anure. Conri continues to want vengeance against Anure, who destroyed his home (Oriel) and his family. Lia, knowing that Anure wants her and her powerful Orchid ring, is determined to keep Calanthe safe, even if it means her life. The two of them continually argue over what is best, though when it’s bedtime, their sizzling chemistry takes over.

With word passed on to Anure about the marriage, he is now bent on coming to Calanthe to take the Queen, even if she is now ‘spoiled’. Despite his unbending determination to enact his vengeance against the emperor at any cost, Conri begins to have strong feelings for Lia, though using her as bait, could cost her life. Lia, is a fantastic heroine, who is tougher than she looks, and her bravery, especially nearer to the end was amazing. Slowly, she reveals a little bit throughout the book about her magic (she is an elemental), especially why there can be no blood on Calanthe. A surprise twist here.

What follows is a fantastic fantasy set in a world of magic, a flower island, and queen who puts her island first. The Fiery Crown is a much faster paced story line, with a lot of plotting and plans early on, and then the last half of the book was nonstop action, tense fighting, some of which held my breath. I will say that some torture scenes were painful to read. Besides Lia and Conri, Kennedy created some wonderful characters, including Ambrose, Sonia, Ibolya, Kara, Raven, Vesno, just to name a few.

To tell too much more would be spoilers, and I do not want to ruin this book for you. You need to read and enjoy every moment. Jeffe Kennedy did a masterful job writing this story, and I for one cannot wait for the final book in this trilogy. If you enjoy fantasy, romance, great couple, wonderful characters, including an evil villain, you should be reading The Fiery Crown.

The Fiery Crown is book 2 in the Forgotten Empires series and a steamy, action packed, romantic- fantasy with Queen Euthalia and her hubby Conri. A marriage of convenience, Lia and Con butt heads everywhere but between the sheets. The final showdown against their mutual enemy is in the works and Con thinks he can work both ends toward the middle. He knows sacrifices will be made to win but never counted on his feelings for his wife muddying the waters. Ancient forces come into play and in the midst of danger, Lia finds out just what she means to her Kingdom and her husband in an epic and totally addicting story. This story is better than the first book and now I wait impatiently for the next installment. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy from Netgalley.

As the next book in the series Jeffe didn't disappoint. It had action, suspense and conflict.
It was exciting up till the very end.

ARC from NetGalley

2.5 stars

It was easy enough to fall into this book, though it was the second in the series, and I hadn't yet read the first. I think the magic system is quite interesting, if very shallowly delved into. It would have been nice to know more. The romance was a bit meh. I didn't dislike any of the characters, I just felt like there wasn't much chemistry. It felt forced and orchestrated. I didn't really have much investment in the characters. I wasn't terribly concerned about them. The bad guy, eh, I didn't really hate him. I didn't really feel much of anything throughout, and that's why I've given this book 2.5 stars. There was nothing in particular about it that was bad. It's an interesting premise, but it wasn't a terribly interesting book.

The second in this series does not disappoint. In fact it may be better than the first. There is more tension and growth and I find myself actually rooting for characters.
Make sure you have read The Orchid Throne first!!!!

First off, you MUST read the first book in the series! This book pick up right where The Orchid Throne left us.
The marriage has happened. Lia & Conri are working towards a better alliance within this relationship. However, the Emperor views Lia as being spoiled, and has decided to bring her back.
The magic system in this book is quite beautiful. It flows so well, and we do get to see a lot more of it. The only issue I have with this book, is that we need....more. Hopefully all the goodness will come about in book 3!
I received a digital ARC copy from Netgalley for an honest review.

Review: This book is #2 in the Forgotten Empires series. Boy, that makes it hard to review without spoilers, at least for the first book in the series - but I guess I won't be spoiling anything the Goodreads synopsis doesn't say. I enjoyed book 1, and I was excited to get the chance to read this one - thanks netgalley!

In this sequel, Conri and Lia are married, but given the forced circumstances of the wedding, it is an uneasy alliance. However, the sex is hot (and they both enjoy it repeatedly in the book). They also gradually learn to respect each other more, and even gain a sort of trust. But the wicked Emperor is unhappy that Lia is "spoiled" and is coming to get her.

One of the things I like most about this series is Lia's magic - how it is tied to the land and how it manifests. We see a lot more of it in this book. I also like that although she is very different, Conri learns to love her differences. The supporting characters are also good, and more fleshed out than in book 1.

There is still more that needs to happen, but the book ended at a good, satisfying place. I'm looking forward to the next

This book was amazing and I couldn’t put it down. I was only going to read a few chapters and ended up finishing it in one sitting!

-- Read this review and more on my blog www.hookedbythatbook.com –

This book follows The Orchid Throne, and sees Lia and Con in an uneasy truce with each other. Each one has their own motivations for their union, and they don’t trust each other. They do come together well in die bedroom, though, which gives them some platform to build on. Emperor Anure is not giving up on his plan to have Lia for himself, and Con, Lia, and their advisors hatch a plan to draw the emperor out. And of course, things don’t quite go as planned for the people of Calanthe.

I didn’t read the first book, I wasn’t even aware there was one when I started this. And honestly, it didn’t matter to me. The world and the people and how everything fit together made sense. I admit, there were parts where I felt that maybe I’m missing something here, but it wasn’t anything that really hindered my enjoyment of the story.

The book is written from both Con and Lia’s points of view (alternating chapters), and that was interesting and gave a full picture of what was going on. Their relationship was very well defined and also very well developed. I loved both of them, and was rooting for them all the way.

The story flowed well with lots of action, and character growth. I definitely felt that there has to be more to Lia’s magic and that she should be able of great feats, but I guess that is still coming (I sure hope so). The book ended at an appropriate spot in the story, though it is definitely not the end of their journey yet. I had an “oh no!” moment there when I realised I have reached the end of the book.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing met with an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Jeffe Kennedy is such a wonderful weaver of stories. I feel as if i have gone on a journey , my heart in my throat awaiting all my new twists and turns .

This is book 2 of the of the Forgotten Empires series . The fiery crown may be read as a stand alone but i would highly suggest reading book 1 The Orchid Throne to get the full experience.

Our story in this book is faster paced. Queen Euthalia and Conri are now married , and trying to navigate what that means to each other and their people. These two characters are strong willed , stubborn and tentatively trying to figure out what do to about Emperor Anure. Conri the consort , wants to kill the emperor , in any way possible... vengeance is riding him hard. Queen Euthalia has more patience and just want to save herself , conri and their people.

This is a wonderful second book . I feel as if the world building has welcomed back a well seasoned traveler. Cant wait for the next book.

This is the second book in this series and I think to fully appreciate it reading the first book is essential - that being said it can be enjoyed as a standalone .

Lia and Conri's marriage was initially one of arrangement , of benefit for both their peoples …………… now as they get to know one another better their feelings towards each other start to grow . But will Conri's push for vengeance put these feelings behind them and be their demise when war does reach the shores of Calanthe.
Everything is now set up for a showdown with the Emperor ……………. can Lia and Conri put their differing agenda aside and come together once and for all .
This book being the middle book in the trilogy does not do too much to take the story much further , but does give a greater perspective on the differing characters , their motives and actions .
I liked the bickering and snarkiness between the characters which added a human element .

A thoroughly enjoyable book with great worldbuilding and brilliant characters - I look forward to the final book in the series .

I was given an ARC of this book by Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review

Kindly provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.....

I was not sure what I would be getting reading book 2 in this series......I liked the blurb and went from there. Well to say that it was a great read just does not cover it. I was blown away !!!. It's a story of Conri and Euthalia, two people who marry for "the greater good or should I say....their own specific reasons ". Any how both have their own little agendas and slowly they come to see that there might be something more important that their own quests.......Love.......or is it ?

Well developed plot and character development. I found myself very much immersed in this fantasy world. As every time an ending leaves me with a "what next", I find myself desperate to grab book 3.....I will just have to wait *sigh*. I absolutely will be reading the next book though !!!

Top story line and characters Jeffe !!. Many thanks for this opportunity xx

Later peeps xxx

After devouring book one I was so excited to get book two and OMG this one was just so exciting. I loved the continued story and I need the next one now!! I have loved this author since the 12th Kingdoms series and man this one was even better!!! I mean OMG this was good!!

The Slave King and The Queen of Flowers are now married. However, Conri and Euthalia must learn how to navigate their new alliance. Conri intends to use everything at his disposal to kill the false emperor. Euthalia strives to keep Calanthe and its people safe from both Emperor Anure and Conri’s thirst for vengeance. With their loyalties torn, they agree on a trap to lure Anure out of hiding. What sacrifices are Conri and Euthalia willing to make? Is there a greater threat than just Anure?
Conri shows such remarkable growth, especially emotionally. As a slave, he had to learn how to bury his emotions enough to survive to live another day. I adore Conri’s natural protectiveness towards Euthalia. They may still be strangers, yet he stubbornly keeps to his word about keeping her safe, even from herself. What I like most about Conri is his view of marriage. He has vague memories of his parents’ marriage, but Conri remembers enough to know he wants a monogamous relationship with Euthalia.
Euthalia is also showing amazing character growth. She is used to making important decisions alone, so it takes her a while to trust Conri enough in the areas she is not knowledgeable on. I like how Euthalia refuses to allow her subjects to refer to Conri by his moniker. She knows how much he hates it and insists they refer to him by either his name or as consort. What I like most about Euthalia is how she can explore her personality around Conri. Whenever in his company, she discovers something new about her personality.
THE FIERY CROWN is book two in Jeffe Kennedy’s fantasy-romance series, FORGOTTEN EMPIRES. The story’s pacing is quicker and smoother than the previous one. It is important to read the prior book, THE ORCHID THRONE, to understand the characters’ development and the events happening in the story. I love how this book picks up immediately where the first one leaft off.
THE FIERY CROWN is a thrilling tale of two strong-willed souls discovering what is truly important to them. I cannot wait to read more about Conri and Euthalia’s crusade against Emperor Anure.

A world of magic, an island of untold beauty, a queen like no other, a prince looking for revenge. I was soon drawn into this wonderful story and the main characters. Following Queen Euthalia and Conri as they worked on their sometimes at odds goals, and their growing understanding of each other, was delicately written. And as I began to know Ambrose better, he was almost my favorite character. The ending is not a cliff hanger, but a hint of things to come, perfect in a series.

When I saw Jeffe Kennedy’s The Fiery Crown I was intrigued and eager to read it. It didn’t take long to realize this was a series and I hadn’t read the first book. I felt I understood enough to enjoy The Fiery Crown, but I plan to go back and read The Orchid Queen. This is the first book I’ve read by Jeffe Kennedy, but it won’t be the last. Her writing is detailed, creating worlds and characters that are so well developed I could vision everything.

I received an ARC received from St Martins Press and NetGalley and this is my honest review.

Having been able to read the first book was a good thing. It’s an absolute necessity and this one is a continuation right from the beginning. Some books offer a little clue to the previous, just for a memory reload, but this one doesn’t. So beware!

When I do reviews of books, it can sometimes take me a day to really think about what I want to say. When that happens it usually means I’m conflicted. I like slow burn books, not plain slow. I also like to see characters grow, even if it is just a teensy bit, but that really didn’t happen here for me.

While the premise of this book is highly intriguing, the execution just didn’t work in my favor. Manipulating characters can only take you so far.

This book took me over a week and a half to read because I just couldn't get into it, which is a disappointment. I didn't realize this book was part of a series, nothing about the cover or title makes note of this. (This was an ARC granted me by NetGalley, so it may be a resolved issue by pub.time.) That aside, I really didn't enjoy this book. The story was bogged down by the two main characters, a man and woman who apparently got married in the first book. This couple annoyed me to no end, the constant bickering then using sex to control each other. The whole relationship seemed to be put there just to have a romance. I'm still not sure what the plot was and the explanation for the female leads powers was a jumbled mess. There was one scene that could be considered action, other than that, it was mostly people talking ad nauseam. The only character that I considered to be interesting was Ambrose, but unfortunately. I won't be reading the next book in the series to find out more about him.

Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC.