I have to be honest, this book is not for me. I think the magic system is clever and there are some good characters in it. My challenge honestly was in having a bisexual main character in a smutty book. For me as a reader, I want to be able to relate to the romance. For the same reason I don’t want to read a male character thinking about a woman’s “spectacular breasts,” I didn’t want to read this female character doing the same. Like I said — isn’t for me. Could work for others.

I tried for two weeks, but I am resigning here at 42%

There are books that pull you in so completely, you forget you’re even reading. Then there are books like this where I am aware of every agonizing moment.

The concept had real potential. Unfortunately, the writing just didn’t live up to that promise. A lot of the story felt like it was just stringing together moments the book REALLY wanted to have, whether it made sense or not. The plot bent around those scenes instead of them coming naturally. Characters would suddenly act completely differently just to make something happen and it threw me off. So many big, key scenes didn’t hold up if you thought about it for more than a second. Also, some of the (I assume) Gaelic felt a bit jarring at times. The names and places were fine but words like “caisteal” and “breithday” didn’t blend naturally. They felt more like a list of vocab words that had to be crammed in somewhere even if it disrupted the flow of the story. I feel like there’s a right way to do it, but this wasn’t an example of one.

A big part of the problem for me, though, was Aemyra. I can usually hang on if I love, or at least am intrigued by, the main character, even in a bad book. But I couldn’t stand Aemyra. On top of that, she was all over the place. Sometimes brave and reckless, other times just standing there in a poofy gown while people talked around her. And coming from a fellow cry baby, she cried sooo much. Girl, get a grip.

I’m sure someone out there will see this as a five-star masterpiece. I’ll be over here stuck at 42% and kind of relieved I’m never seeing the cousins get together.

Hazel McBride has crafted something truly extraordinary with “A Fate Forged in Fire”, a dazzling, heart-pounding tale that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. This is not just a book; it’s a full-body experience of magic, courage, and emotional depth that burns bright long after the final chapter.

From the very first sentence, McBride draws you into a world so vivid and visceral that it feels real, and utterly impossible to leave. Her prose is sharp and lyrical, her pacing masterful, and her character work impeccable. The heroine is fierce, vulnerable, and refreshingly real, navigating a journey that is as emotionally wrenching as it is empowering.

The world-building is layered and rich, striking a perfect balance between epic fantasy and intimate personal stakes. And the romance? It smolders. The chemistry leaps off the page, but what makes it sing is the way McBride roots it in trust, growth, and mutual respect.

But what elevates this book to unforgettable status is its emotional core. “A Fate Forged in Fire” is about more than magic or destiny, it’s about resilience, identity, and the fire we forge within ourselves when the world tries to break us.

Hazel McBride has solidified her place as a powerhouse voice in fantasy. “A Fate Forged in Fire” is not just a five-star read, it’s a blazing triumph.

ARC Review of “A Fate Forged in Fire” by Hazel McBride

⭐ 4/5

“A Fate Forged in Fire” by Hazel McBride is a fast-paced, Celtic-inspired fantasy romance featuring a headstrong fire-wielding blacksmith, a forbidden throne, and an enemies-to-lovers romance with a dragon-riding prince. This book was a fun blend of political intrigue and slow-burning tension in a world steeped in dragon lore and goddesses. It’s the first in a duology, and it sets the stage for what promises to be an intense journey toward power and self-discovery.

This book swept me up in its lush, mythology-rooted setting and left me eager to know what’s next. I found myself captivated by the complex court politics, dragons, and the magic system, even if the dense worldbuilding and Aemyra’s often impulsive choices occasionally made her a challenging heroine to root for. That said, I appreciated how unapologetically fiery she was - flaws and all - and I’m curious to see how she grows in the next installment. The dynamic between Aemyra and Fiorean was strongest in their adversarial moments, and I’m hopeful for deeper emotional development in book two. Supporting characters like Terrea added warmth and humor, and I absolutely want more of her in the sequel. This was my first Hazel McBride novel, but I’m intrigued and impressed enough to explore more of her work - and I’ll definitely be continuing this series.

I was generously provided an e-ARC by Delacorte Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own ♡

Review posted on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/7238289782
And StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews/f2a69361-58c8-42c6-94a5-d4d87dc5c23d

DNF @ 23%

This writing style just isn't for me. I knew that early on but I was intrigued enough with the story to try and push past it. I felt like I was having to force myself to pick this up and then getting distracted easily.

The writing is very atmospheric and repetitive and that just isn't my vibe all the time. I read 23% and I fell like Aemyra's 'chest tightened' 100 times. I was so excited about this book and really wanted to love it, but it just wasn't for me.

Thank you to NetGalley, Ballantine, Delacorte Press, and Random House Publishing Group for this advanced copy. You can pick up A Fate Forged in Fire on May 27, 2025.

Normally, I'm all for an enemies-to-lovers, dragon-filled fantasy book. But I fear something was missing from A Fate Forged in Fire to sell me completely. It might have been the MMC, who had zero dimension and meh chemistry with the lead. It could be the lead herself, who felt like a regurgitation of so many other romantasy heroines. The world was somewhat interesting, but it could have been explained a bit better in the beginning. Even within the first chapter, we're thrown in with terms and characters that are a bit difficult to keep track of.

Overall, there's definitely an audience for this book, but I fear it isn't for me.

💥💥Book Review 💥💥

A Fate Forged in Fire
By Hazel McBride
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

“A Fate Forged in Fire “ is an amazing enemies to lovers Romantasy that is set in an epic fantasy world that captivates the reader on every page. I absolutely devoured this book because it was soo good! The lush world building that Hazel McBride brings to the book with it being rooted in Celtic mythology brings a fresh look to the novel. I felt so captivated and invested in the characters. I loved the way dragons and magic are intricately woven into the story. I can’t wait to read the next book!

I want to thank NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.

A week after finishing this book and I still cannot stop thinking about the ending. The book hasn't even released, and I already need the second book in this series.

Starting this book, I was unsure if it was going to be for me, as it felt a but dull but quickly picked up with a bar fight. The marriage of convivence between Aemyra, the bi-sexual FMC, and Fiorean, the MMC ties the characters together. The progression from enemies to lovers was very well done. I loved the witty banter between the two, laughing out loud. Hazel McBride made me hate Fiorean, love him, and then left me stunned at his actions.

Once this officially releases, I am going to buy the Audio book to listen to the narrator read the Scottish Gaelic words as it was hard to keep flipping back and forth in the e-book from the pronunciation guide and back to my spot.

I received an Uncorrected Proof ARC from NetGalley.

Rounded up to 4.5⭐️

Thank you so much to Random House Publishing for the eARC!

A Fate Forged in Fire is a Scottish, Game of Thrones vibes Romantasy with a strong-willed (to a fault sometimes) FMC and tons of political intrigue. There’s forced proximity and a marriage of convenience and an enemies to lovers to…enemies?!?

Ameyra has an interesting story arc. So unusual to most FMC plot lines where they don’t know they’re royal or that they have powers, she knows her right to the throne and is willing to do anything to take it.

I really enjoyed this aspect of the story and her overall badassery! She definitely reminded me of Daenerys from GoT, and she was my fave, so I think that connected me more to her story. She did have moments of “wtf are you doing?? That’s so dumb”, but she’s young and her bad choices in this book will hopefully help her make better choices in the next book!

The New Religion has me FUMING the entire time, I absolutely felt Ameyra’s rage against them. Alfred can burn in Hela and I hope he and his extremist religion get what’s coming to them in the next books.

Fiorian has me sooooo hot and confused cause what the actual fuck was that ending?!? Like, I knew it was coming, but still mad about it. Not sure how things can get better for them romance-wise, but I can’t wait to see how our MC’s reconcile the insanity that was the last few chapters. 🫠

If you love dragons and a Scottish setting with true enemies to lovers…read this book!

SO excited for the next one! 🐉🔥

Hazel McBride’s A Fate Forged in Fire introduces readers to a richly imagined Celtic-inspired fantasy world where fire magic, political intrigue, and dragon bonding collide. The story follows Aemyra, a blacksmith blessed with fire magic, as she attempts to reclaim her rightful place as queen in a kingdom corrupted by patriarchal rule and religious oppression. McBride crafts a compelling narrative that blends high-stakes rebellion with personal growth, as Aemyra navigates betrayal, shifting alliances, and the burden of leadership. The world-building is immersive, and the themes of power, legacy, and resistance are thoughtfully explored, making this a solid entry into the romantasy genre.

However, while the plot is engaging and the stakes feel real, the romantic chemistry between Aemyra and her adversary-turned-ally, Prince Fiorean, falls short of its potential. Their enemies-to-lovers arc, though central to the story, often feels forced rather than organically developed. The emotional beats sometimes lack the depth needed to make their connection truly resonate, which can be disappointing given the intensity of the surrounding narrative. For readers who prioritize authentic romantic tension, this may leave something to be desired. Overall, A Fate Forged in Fire earns a respectable 3 out of 5 stars—an enjoyable read with strong world-building and themes, but one that could have soared higher with more natural romantic development.

Hell yes. THIS BOOK. This is how you do high fantasy with a true enemies-to-lovers romance.

A long-lost queen fights to claim her rightful place on the throne and bond with the world's most powerful dragon to restore goddess-blessed rule in a realm poisoned by a patriarchal religious faction.

A Fate Forged in Fire has seriously addicting House of the Dragon/Game of Thrones vibes with a gloriously angry and stabby FMC. I thoroughly enjoyed the Celtic history-inspired world of dragons and magical bonds with mythical creatures of lore. The world-building is complex and immaculate, with incredibly high stakes for the main characters and their people.

There's a lot to love and loathe about the FMC and MMC. They're both incredibly stubborn and quick to anger and solve problems with their fists and daggers. But behind their fiery facades are big, soft hearts that hurt easily. They're quite literally perfect for each other, even if it takes them A LONG time to realize it. Their idea of foreplay involves knives and making the other bleed. Romantic! I was barking at the banter and tension.

This one is a must-read for those wanting more epic fantasy with their romance.

I had zero expectations going into this one and was pleasantly surprised. My heritage is Scottish so I loved that aspect of it- knowing Hazel is actually Scottish impacted my reading too. Some people have been bothered by the fact that the main characters are distantly related but this information just immediately left my brain as soon as it registered. I liked the political aspect of it and felt like the book was a roller coaster essentially from the first chapter- the cliff hanger at the ending - are you kidding me?!

A romantasy hasn't gotten me in a choke hold quite like this book did in SO LONG.
Dragons ✔️
Coup ✔️
"My Wife" 🤤 ✔️

The battle of Old Religion vs New Religion reminded me a lot of The Faith of the Seven in Game of Thrones albet loosely, mostly the concept of how tyrannical and wild it can get. Granted, a lot of the major plot points I could see coming a mile away, but I still devoured it. Anyone who likes Game of Thrones for the dragons and the politics of Kings Landing should pick up this book. I received a digital arc and I pre-ordered the book by the time I was at 40% that's how strongly influenced I am.

I received this arc from NetGalley and Random House Publishing.
This book exceeded my expectations. I was hooked when I saw that it was a Celtic inspired romantasy, and it did not disappoint. The ending of this book blindsided me completely, which just made me love it more. I can’t wait for the next book in this series because I need to know what happens next for Aemyra and her family. This book is full of elemental magic, corruption, dragons, romance, and a badass heroine right at the very center. I loved the matriarchal society that was described in this story with women meant to inherit the throne instead of men. There were so many twists and turns and betrayals in this story that I was unable to put it down.

ARC
Rating / Recommend: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶️🌶️ / YESYESYES

My Thoughts:
Amazing, awesome, fantastic. I have so many words and also no words to describe how I feel about this.

I loved the world in this book. It’s more of a high fantasy and the world building was so well done. The FMC had so much growth during this book.

The MMC… I like him? But that ending. Maybe I hate him…

If you love fantasy romance go read this. I feel so wrecked after that ending. I want book 2 right now.


CW: Read the trigger warnings!
• Adult language
• Open door scenes (easily skippable if you want)
• A lot of possible triggers!
Read the warnings!!

Thank you Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I can see why so many people enjoy this book, Aemyra is fiery and tough. Who doesn’t love a strong FMC? However, it just did not resonate with me. I really struggled to get into it. There were some scenes toward the beginning of the book that I just wasn’t a fan of, personally. It deterred me from wanting to finish it.

I know that my preferences are not the same as others, so please don’t let this review deter you from giving this book and author a shot. It is certainly an interesting story line. Full of magic, romance, corruption, dragons… I mean, it’s worth a shot, right? Aemrya’s story might not have been my personal favorite, but who knows, maybe you’ll love it.

🔥 fantasy romance
⚔️ hidden heir
🔥 slow burn
⚔️ banter
🔥 dragons
⚔️ fiery FMC
🔥 enemies to lovers

I could not get into this book no matter how hard I tried. The FMC was insufferable and demanding in a way that was not empowering, but embarrassing. How can you love a book when you don’t even like the main character? How do you root for them?

It felt like this book had a goal of hitting major tropes that are interesting to readers and publishers, but it wasn’t fleshed out enough to over look the cliche of the tropes.

Thank you NetGalley and Random House for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I should know better than to read things solely marketed as romantasy. I have struggled with almost every single one with a few exceptions. So many books are trying to capture
that Fourth Wing magic instead of writing a solid book. This was chock full of inconsistency, unsteady pacing, and just unlikeable characters. I didn’t know this was a GOT fanfic originally but the vibes are obvious and don’t work well. I have no doubt this will find its audience and I hope those readers are delighted but unfortunately I am not one of them.

This book had all the potential. I love the blurb, but unfortunately the blurb was the best part. I did not love the characters and there was a lot of inconsistencies in the plot.

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it unfortunately didn't meet my expectations.

I was so excited to read A Fate Forged in Fire, as I've had it on my TBR for almost a year. The premise had the perfect formula for a high-stakes, plot-driven romantasy (with DRAGONS!!!)—I should have absolutely devoured this book! Unfortunately, none of that was truly delivered at the level I had hoped. There were a lot of inconsistencies, causing me to raise my eyebrows and scratch my forehead, thinking I had missed something. The writing would teeter back and forth between being really descriptive with beautiful prose, to all of a sudden being hollow, simple, and flat. The pacing of the plot was odd, some moments had me sucked in wanting to continue and then as soon as I turned the page, I was bored out of my mind. The world did, however, feel lived-in and fleshed out, and I loved the Celtic influence since it was different than anything I've read before. I felt like the author really tried to balance the heavy plot and romance, but it wasn't executed well, as both aspects were fighting each other instead of blending together seamlessly.

As for Aemyra... ugh... where do I begin? She's presented as a character who is "yayyy girl power," but her actions and inner monologue completely contradict that. There is one scene where a woman she despises (only because of who her husband is), hides behind her husband because Aemyra "gave her a feral smirk." Then in her inner monologue, she states, "Pitiful. These women have no strength." Now this was weird for me because up until this point, Aemyra constantly talks about how women in this world are so powerful and how tHeY dOn'T nEeD nO mAn, but then she talks down about women that aren't as "strong" as she is (even though strength is subjective, and comes in many forms besides physical). This just came across as gross... like Aemyra looks at women she can overpower easily as completely weak and useless. Her only personality trait was being "stabby" and "feisty," even during moments that didn't make sense. I was waiting for her to show some sort of emotion other than rage, but there was no real character development, causing her to seem unrelatable and one-dimensional.

Sigh... don't even get me started on the "romance," I'm completely icked-out. For those of you who don't know, A Fate Forged in Fire was initially a House of the Dragon fanfiction, and while I never read the fanfiction, I am very familiar with Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. The romance was very... Targaryen-coded to say the least. The ruling clan of Tìr Teine is the Daercathians, who are distinguished by their auburn hair and green eyes. Aemyra keeps her hair hidden, pulled up in a scarf (because she has auburn hair green eyes), waiting for the opportune time to take back the kingdom that is rightfully hers because she is basically the lost heir of the Daercathian throne. Enter Prince Fiorean Daercathian, our MMC (whose father is the current king, obvi), with his auburn hair and green eyes... NOW I'M NOT SAYING THEY ARE RELATED!!! But if 1+1=2... And obviously, they are both Daercathian, how far removed are they from the family tree? It's giving incest, without just outright saying it. I even went back after reading to try to find some clarity, but there isn't any.

I should never have to question whether or not the leading couple is blood-related.

I do appreciate that the first 50% or so felt like a true enemies-to-lovers, but there was literally ZERO time between enemies becoming lovers. Like give as a breather, damn. I blinked and all of a sudden they were having sex and confessing their feelings... LIKE YOU JUST HATED EACH OTHER A MINUTE AGO??? This could have been an excellent setup for an excruciatingly slow burn (which I would have loved), but nope. There was no chemistry, no lingering touches, no sweet moments, or buildup to their blossoming relationship after they were "done" being enemies. I felt nothing for either of them and didn't believe their relationship for a single second.

The only redeeming quality was the very end when the plot finally picked up, and of course, the dragons. I really, really wanted to love A Fate Forged in Fire and I'm so upset that it just didn't work for me :( There was so much potential, but so little payoff.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing for the ARC (I still can't believe I got approved) for an honest review!