What a wild ride! I love Jeffe's writing. I am not much of fantasy romance but she can do no wrong. I really love this series. Thank you for letting me read and review this book.

The Fiery Crown picks up nearly where the first volume left off, and it does not function as a standalone, so if you haven’t read The Orchid Throne, go do that first.

The book opens with the wedding official and the sex good, but personal matters formal and stilted still between Lia and Conri. Of course, it’s only been a week that they’ve known each other as people, so that’s no great surprise. Much of this book is about Conri and Lia learning to work as a team, despite their imperfect trust for one another and the fact that neither one’s personal mission is the other’s first priority.

This leads directly into the major threat of the story: Anure’s imminent invasion. It presents an interesting dilemma: defending an island against invaders without spilling blood in violence either on the land or in the seas. Looking forward to seeing how this is solved. I really hoped to see it solved with cleverness and subterfuge, just as Conri’s people were tricked in the first book, rather than brute force. Of course, the fact that Conri and his people neither trust nor value the warnings of Lia and her people means it doesn’t go that way. I am furious with all of Conri’s people for what this means for Lia.

Speaking of Lia, her use of fashion as armor and expression throughout the book continues to be well done in this second volume, and blends well with the sex-positive messages the book sends, but the fact that Lia and Conri seem to use sex as a plaster for every disagreement they have, and a touchstone for regaining their mental and emotional equilibrium still strikes me as a kind of unhealthy approach to sex, particularly for two people in their position. At any rate, I continue to appreciate that Lia shaves her head (for Reasons, but still) and wears wigs that she changes to suit her outfit or her mood. For whatever reason her incredibly flexible (if uncomfortable) wardrobe just pleases me.

As does Kennedy’s writing, which is polished and easy to devour, reaching a good balance between describing the enchanting island nation of Calanthe and actually moving the plot forward. That being the case, it’s really frustrating to have Lia capitalize “Me” every time she refers to herself, since it’s the only real complaint I have about Kennedy’s writing. Yes, Lia is the ruler of a nation (and possibly its human embodiment), but it reads as obnoxiously affected. Particularly since that sort of capitalization is most famously used in the Bible, which is rife with formal speech patterns, and juxtaposed with the more informal prose of this book the “Me”, “My” thing is just grating. They even mention it at one point in the book.

All in all, this was an interesting sequel. There will clearly be a third book in the series and I intend to read it.

THE FIERY CROWN – Jeffe Kennedy
The Forgotten Empire series – Book 2
St. Martin’s Paperbacks
ISBN-13: 978-1-250-19433-6
ISBN-10: 1-250-19433-4
ASIN: B0818MRNYH
May 26, 2020
Fantasy

The Island of Calanthe

Queen Euthalia of Calanthe, or Lia as her new husband Conri calls her, wears the magical orchid ring, also known as the abiding ring. The ring has literally become a part of her body and lets her sense all life and conditions on Calanthe. She knows she must prevent any violent bloodshed on the island because beneath the land sleeps the ancient monster Calanthe. Such violence might wake the monster which will destroy the island. Lia captured and then chose to marry Con, the King of Slaves, as he may be Calanthe’s only hope to protect the kingdom from destruction by Anure, the Emperor of All the Known World. With his weapon of Vergesten, a mineral that changes into fire, Anure’s armies have destroyed and conquered all other kingdoms except Calanthe. Before his death, Euthalia’s father arranged an engagement between her and the emperor as a protection for Calanthe. Since her marriage to Conri, Anure writes her threatening messages of what he will do to her.

Con was formerly known as Prince Conri of Oriel. Lia now calls him Conri as an honorific of royal status. When Anure conquered the kingdom of Oriel, he sent Conri and his father the king to the Vurgmum mines where the weapon Vergesten is mined. His father died there, and the mineral’s toxins damaged Con’s voice and skin, but he escaped and is now a formidable warrior with an army of other escaped slaves. His wizard Ambrose, now proclaimed a Wizard of Calanthe by Lia, made the prediction: ‘Take the tower of the sun, claim the hand that wears the abiding ring, and the empire falls.’ He believes he has completed the first two parts of the prediction…but most predictions are open to interpretation.

While both Conri and Lia agreed to their marriage, it is a contentious one in most aspects except in their physical allure to each other and carrying out its gratification. Otherwise each has their own opposing goals and secrets, and neither trusts the other. Con wants to destroy Anure and his power above everything. Lia wants to ensure Calanthe’s preservation and safety. Slowly, with much confrontation, they reach a mutual plan to defeat the emperor, but many ifs, ands, or buts are involved which makes it very risky, and the mysterious Ambrose also seems to have a hidden agenda. Conri suspects and warns Lia that Anure wants her even more than he does Calanthe.

It is very helpful to have read THE ORCHID THRONE before reading this volume. THE FIERY CROWN presents an imaginative trip into a unique fantasy world.

Robin Lee

The Fiery Crown is the second in a series that I devoured with the voraciousness of sea monster. It has magic, sex, secrets, war, torture, death, and mystery. I couldn't put it down and I can't wait for book 3.

Second in series.
This book didn't hold my interest as much as the first .
Would have like some more info on the magic of the Island and people.
Like Con and Lia somewhat maybe if the magic was explain better I could connect it to them.
It was a okay read..It took me awhile to finish. The first was better.
Voluntarily Reviewed .

Title: The Firey Crown
Author: Jeffe Kennedy
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Release Date: May 26, 2020
Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Con and Lia's relationship is tested again and again. As they traverse their new relationship, they start to analyze their new feelings towards each other. It provides action, romance, and steamy intimate scenes. You get a funny wizard, a hard-headed king, a stubborn queen, and a living island. The ending revelation will leave you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait for book 3.

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.

Even though I am not super into fantasy, I read the first book in the series with much interest, which is why I accepted to read the second book in the series. The first one was quite fast paced with lots of intrigue and even though it was not strong on the romantic front, it was quite interesting. The second book didn't quite capture my interest, but I continued on. It was little bit disappointing compared to the first. It never quite grabbed me like the first one did. I would say to continue on reading if you are very into this genre, but my review is a bit ambivalent.

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.