Thank you NetGalley for an audio arc. This is an honest review. This was my first book by this author I am very surprised at how much I enjoyed this! There are some heavy themes in this book and you should definitely check the trigger warnings before reading. But I really enjoyed this. I can’t wait to see where this series goes and what happens, but I enjoyed the lore and world building a lot. The narrators did a very good job as well! They really brought these characters to life. A few parts of this book did kind of drag on, and I would’ve enjoyed a bit more action with that being said it was still very good. Will definitely be reading more by this author and in the series.

Firebird is my first read by Juliette Cross, and I was immediately pulled in by the Roman-inspired society and the political machinations woven throughout. The mix of empire politics, rebellion, and power struggles gave the world a grounded sense of realism, even with its magical elements.

Julian was a standout character for me—torn between doing what’s right and surviving long enough to overthrow the corruption around him. His choices often forced him into morally gray (or even black) areas, but his loyalty and long game made him easy to root for. Malina was equally compelling: fierce, independent, and—most importantly—self-aware. I appreciated that even when she believed Julian to be her enemy, she didn’t let that assumption cloud her ability to see his true intentions. She evolves as the story progresses, and she never stands in the way of her own growth.

One element that held this back from being a full five stars was the underdeveloped magic system. It has potential, and I’m hoping the next book in the series will delve deeper into its mechanics and history. Right now, it feels a bit too mysterious for the role it plays in the story.

As an audiobook, the narration was solid. Blair Dade and Kale Williams both did a great job bringing the characters to life, and the dual narration added depth to Julian and Malina’s perspectives.

Overall, Firebird is a strong start to a series with plenty of political tension, rich character development, and promise for more to come. Recommended for fans of fantasy romance with imperial intrigue and slow-burn dynamics.

I really enjoyed the audio of this! It's a dual narration style to accompany both POVs, and I think it was really well done from a narration standpoint. I do listen to audiobooks at ~2x speed (give or take), and the distortion at that speed was minimal,

If you threw a dragon shifter novel in an ancient roman empire setting, this is what you get! Being said, if you don't like the extreme possessiveness and use of the word "treasure" that accompanies dragon shifters--you're not going to have a good time. If that's up your alley, COME ON DOWN!

This is *technically* a master/slave relationship, but to be honest with you, I was expecting it to be a lot worse than it was given how many folks are up in arms about it. While he's TECHNICALLY her master, their relationship dynamic doesn't really reflect that at all. If anything, the idea of her being his slave was mostly just a plot point to get her into his proximity and doesn't really drive the story or relationship beyond that. Sure, there's a bit of a power difference, but not really any different from the prince or king falling in love with the special commoner we usually see in Romantasy.

I was definitely a fan of this taking a more historical approach and focusing on the politics of the Roman Empire (with a twist of magic, obviously) and how wild of a time that was. Did I also mentally say "We should totally just STAB CESEAR" 50 times while reading? Maybe. Am I here for it? Also yes.

Overall this was a fun read and a solid audiobook if you're a fan of dragon shifters and like historical settings.

It wasn't terrible, but it didn't thoroughly wow me either. I think that there could have been better marketing for this book. I didn't necessarily enjoy the master/slave dynamic. I know that some people do enjoy that, but it wasn't for me. The characters were not developed enough to genuinely care about them. I did enjoy the books' blend of historical and fantastical elements, but it just didn't stand out to me. The story did start off strong, but by the end I was not invested enough to consider continuing on with the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bramble for the advance listening copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.

I didn’t know I needed the Roman Empire in my life, but the men who think about it all day may be onto something. This was a richly reimagined romantasy set in Rome during the time of Caesar with dragon shifters, witches, magic, and the myth of Medusa. It had brutal court politics with backstabbing and betrayals, gladiator fights, and the most intense, slow-burn, captor x captive, forbidden romance ever. Julianus is morally grey, possessive, protective, brooding, and gives major “touch her and 💀” energy. He’s the emperor’s nephew and a general in his army, but he’s willing to risk everything for Malina. Their story is an epic, scorching hot, dark romantasy that had me hooked from the first chapter. I was lucky enough to get the advanced listener’s copy, and I highly recommend listening to it! It was dual narration by Blair Dade and Kale Williams and they did an excellent job giving each character their own voice, which brought them vibrantly to life and heightened the emotions and high-stakes plot. I loved this one and can’t wait to read more from Juliette Cross!
🐦‍🔥
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🐦‍🔥
Read if you like:
▫️Roman history
▫️the plot against Caesar
▫️dragon shifters, witches, and magic
▫️captor x captive
▫️forbidden love
▫️mates
▫️dual POV
🐦‍🔥
Thank you to Bramble Romance, Macmillan Audio, Juliette Cross, and NetGalley for the ALC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️

This story started off very interesting. The beginning was good. The story took a dark turn. All of a sudden the FMC starts to lose her strength and becomes compliant. I do understand that it’s all part of the romance but it was too fast.

I really liked her magic. It was an interesting and unique way to make her stand out. I also enjoyed the found family. The story felt rushed. I know there is going to be another book but it felt like the storyline was fast and I did not have enough time to bond to the characters.

I would also like to mention the terms that are used as her job gave me the ick. I had a hard time getting through it and did almost DNF at one point but pushed through. If I did not have the audio I probably would have DNFd.

I listened to the audio and I liked the narration. My rating is higher because the narration made me stick through it. It was a dual narration, two narrators. They both did a good job.

Juliette Cross does an amazing job mixing elements of ancient Rome with dragons and spice. Set in a richly imagined world where dragon shifters, war, and ancient power struggles collide, Firebird is a perfect storm of romance and suspense. Each chapter brought on a different set of emotions making me unable to put the book down. If you enjoy a good slow burn enemies-to-lovers epic fantasy - this will be your new obsession! This book has plenty of action, suspense, and romance perfect for all Romantasy/Fantasy readers out there!

**I received an advance review audio copy for free on NetGally, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**

Imagine a world where dragons rule Rome. Do I even need to say more?
HBO's Rome meets House of the dragon. We follow Malina as she is brought to Rome as a slave, but she is strong and fierce not at all what is needed to be a "good" slave. Julian is the sadistic emperor's nephew and should be Malina's sworn enemy.

Netgalley was generous enough to lend me the audiobook of Firebird and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment! Action packed, fast moving, realistic character reactions, this book does not disappoint! If you love ancient Rome, dragons and a fearless and fierce FMC with a touch her & die MMC who falls first, you need to read Firebird!

Witches, dragons, Ancient Rome. This sounded like a recipe for a five star read for me. I was really interested in the first quarter of the book but once the enslaved/slave master storyline started to develop, it was a huge turnoff. The words were just used so much it was hard to forget even though their relationship wasn’t as awful as one would think with those words. Also the use of an “empath” in the story was…a choice. I lost interest around 60% and would not continue this series.

The narrators did a great job of portraying the characters.

Thank you so much to Netgalley, Juliette Cross, and Macmillan Audio for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review. This published on April 8th!

I have very mixed feelings about Firebird. The premise and plot were compelling in theory, but as I delved deeper, I found myself conflicted about many aspects of the story.

First, the world-building is quite intriguing, set in a realm where dragon-born humans reign supreme, and those who are not are enslaved or killed. This setup immediately pulled me in, but I struggled with the portrayal of the slave/master dynamic throughout the novel. I honestly thought I could get past it, especially with the initial complexities of Julian’s character. However, as the story progressed, I found the relationship between Julian and Malina to be problematic. Malina doesn’t seem to spend much time grappling with the fact that she’s a slave or that her people were murdered by Julian’s warband. Instead, her focus is mostly on Julian’s good looks and developing feelings for him, which felt a little off considering the heavy dynamics at play. The book tries to present the idea that Julian treats his slaves well, which might make him seem like a "better" master, but I just couldn't shake the discomfort of that dynamic. Simply being "nicer" to slaves doesn't undo the fundamental imbalance of power and exploitation. Not to mention rape and imbalanced power dynamics used to take advantage of mainly woman was abundant.

What kept me engaged, though, was the narration. Blair Dade and Kale Williams did a fantastic job bringing the story to life. Blair Dade gave Malina’s character a level of maturity and cleverness that was enjoyable to listen to, and she definitely brought her emotional journey to the forefront. Kale Williams, on the other hand, absolutely nailed Julian's character—his performance captured the barely contained power and dangerous control of Julian, both as a man and as a dragon. His portrayal of Julian’s super alpha vibes, especially in moments where he was protective of Malina or enraged by anyone threatening her, was intense and absolutely spot-on. Honestly, even if the story itself wasn’t entirely to my taste, the audiobook experience made it much easier to get through.

In conclusion, while Firebird has an intriguing premise and some great narration, the uncomfortable slave/master relationship and lack of emotional depth regarding Malina’s situation made it difficult for me to fully embrace the story. That being said, the audiobook itself is an enjoyable experience, and if you can overlook the problematic themes, the performances by Blair Dade and Kale Williams make this book worth a listen.

Rating N/A
Y'all, I cannot bring myself to finish this book, I'm only on chapter 10 but I'm calling it lol. Our MMC meets our FMC as a teen and seems taken by her from that moment which is already weird and then they meet again 3 years later when she's an adult but oh wait, she's actually his new "body" slave. And on top of all that, she's a minority and he's a colonizer... None of that makes me want to root for this couple or even continue their story and I really did want to like it because I got the FL special edition too. The audiobook narrators did a good job at giving the characters life but I just couldn't get into this one unfortunately.

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC!

📖 Bookish Thoughts
Let’s start with the good! I really enjoyed this book! This had a lot of elements I love: dragons, magic, and some solid political drama. The political tension was easily the strongest part of the book. And I am a total sucked for a fated mates romance! Especially because his dragon recognized Malina as their mate. 😍

That said, I do think the synopsis could’ve done a better job making it clear this is a dark romance. I didn’t mind darker romances, but it’s definitely something readers should know going in.
There’s also a master/slave power dynamic (Malina is enslaved by the MMC). Malina is technically his body slave, she’s responsible for things like helping him dress and tending to his personal needs. Julianus treats her well and with care from the start, but the power imbalance is still very present. Julianus does really love Malina and protects her, but that power imbalance is a major part of the book, and it should’ve been flagged. Especially since owning slaves is so common for the dragons.
Seeing a child in a slave collar was especially upsetting. Even though Julianus actually saved the boy and clearly cares for him, it was still really difficult to read about a child in a slave collar.

I really loved watching Malina’s magic grow throughout the book. At first, it seemed like she could only influence emotions. By the end, she was using it to calm the MMC. She also used it to make another dragon shifter sick (he totally deserved it). I'm really excited to see how her magic continues to evolve as the series goes on.

Overall, I did like the book. I think it is a strong start to the series, and I will continue reading along.

🎙️ Narration Style: Dual
🎧 Audio Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📖 Book Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Book + audiobook released April 8th — time to add it to your TBR!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the audio ARC. All thoughts are my own.

Firebird is the first book in Juliette Cross' new series, The Fire That Binds, and it definitely delivered! Set in an alternate version of Roman history where dragons rule as the patrician class, this book offers a fascinating and unique twist on the romantasy genre. The world-building is rich, drawing readers into a society that feels both ancient and fantastical.

One of the things I loved most was how the characters' relationship unfolded against the backdrop of an oppressive empire. Malina, the FMC, is part of a rebel uprising, and Julian, the MMC, is a Roman general sent to crush the rebellion. Their chemistry is electric, and the slow-burn romance is equally compelling as they navigate political intrigue, personal stakes, and the looming threat of a tyrannical empire.

Juliette Cross does an excellent job of capturing the harsh realities of Roman society—especially the treatment of women and the brutal consequences of rebellion. The story doesn’t shy away from the darkness of the era, and that means there are tough moments throughout. The portrayal of the patriarchal society is raw, and for those unfamiliar with Roman history, it’s important to note that when rebellions were crushed, the rebels were often enslaved. Additionally, the emperor in this world channels some serious Caligula-like vibes, adding to the tension and danger.

This book is not a cozy romantasy. It’s a fast-paced, action-packed journey filled with political tension, spice, and intrigue. The pacing is quick, making it an easy binge. While some plot points and character arcs are carried into the next book, the romance between Malina and Julian is mostly resolved by the end, leaving room for new characters and stories in the next installment.

I can’t wait to see where the next book goes! Based on the way Firebird ends, I have a feeling it’s going to be gut-wrenching, but absolutely worth the wait.

Highly recommended for fans of action-packed romance, political intrigue, and dark fantasy!

Thank you to NetGalley for providing an audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I always find Juliette's books so hooky right from the get-go. She has a way of getting me sucked in quickly and getting me to feel connected to her characters right away that makes for such a fun and immersibe reading experience.

This dark fantasy romance hit on all the things I like about this sub genre. A unique take on Roman history that is indeed just as brutal as you think it will be, an interesting take on dragons and dragon shifters, and a heroine with what appears to be immense power but she hasn't fully realized it yet.

And of course, the one thing that always keeps me coming back to Juliette's books is how deeply and madly the hero falls for the heroine. This man is the definition of touch her and die and only soft for her, and I truly never get tired of that!

The romance between Julianus and Malina did have fated mates vibes to it, which lends it an insta love feel, but I didn't mind that one bit.

I enjoyed the setup for this book and world and can't wait to see our story really take off in book two!

CW: master/slave dynamic in the romance, attempted sexual assault (not between the mc's), dubious consent

I enjoyed both narrators and felt they suited the story very well!
I received an ARC for review

Overall: 3.5/5
Spice: 3/5
Tropes/Themes: Roman inspired mythology & politics, dragon shifter & witch, dark romantasy, forced proximity- captive & captor, duel narrators

"I am death incarnate and the world will know my wrath."

You should definitely read the trigger warnings before starting this book, as it touches on some darker subjects, including SA. ALSO, can we take a moment for this cover?! 😱 It's so pretty!

That said, this was an intriguing read! I really enjoyed the plot. Picture a slightly altered Roman period, but with dragon shifters thrown into the mix!

The story follows Malina, a Dacian witch and dancer. At 17, she meets Julian, a Roman general, while performing. He gives her a talisman of Lady Fortuna. Fast forward a few years, and at 21, they cross paths again, with Julian saving her from some dangerous individuals. This time, he shifts into his dragon form and takes her to his "lair," which is really his home. From there, you’re immersed in royal politics, warfare, gods, lore, and rebellion.

Julian is the nephew of Caesar, the tyrant who rules Rome. He’s definitely possessive, but in a gentle way. I thought the FMC’s power was unique, and I believe Malina’s backstory will play a crucial role in the upcoming books. For some reason, I didn't really connect with her that well. There is a bit of an insta-love element, mainly because they are mates, but the romance develops slowly, with the spice taking time to build. I also really liked the incorporation of gods and ancient prophecies.

The dual narration was well done! They did a great job at bringing the story to life! I did find myself zoning out a bit, but that could be because I’m used to listening to the audiobook while reading. I had to focus a little harder this time.

I’m curious to see what book two will bring! A big thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC!

🔥 BOOK REVIEW 🔥

FIREBIRD by Juliette Cross
4/5
Out now!

FIREBIRD is an enthralling romantasy taking Roman mythology and spinning it on its head. I was worried that the power dynamic between the two main character's wasn't going to work, but I think the author did a good job of acknowledging the uneven power/authority while allowing our main characters' relationship to grow. I will definitely be reading the next in the series. It seems like each book will follow a different couple in this universe.

Firebird is set in the Roman empire, though the gods from mythology are actually dragons, as are the elites of society. The story follows a Dacian witch as her life intertwines with a Roman dragon shifters. Please read if you like the following:

🐲 Historical romances with a magical twist
🐲 The grittiness (and maybe sexiness?) of a warcamp
🐲 Fated mate tropes
🐲 Planned coups trying to take down the crazy man in charge

Thank you to Netgalley, Bramble, and Macmillan Audio for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

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i was IMMEDIATELY pulled into this book. dragons, smut, greek gods, witches. highly recommend and can’t wait for the next book! it’s also great on audio.

thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

Thank you NetGalley and MacMillian Audio for the ALC in return for my honest review

Tropes:

💫Master/Slave (advertised as captor/captive)
💫Forced Proximity
💫Fated Mates
💫Dragon Shifters
💫Forbidden Love
💫Strong FMC

Trigger warnings:
💢implied and attempted SA

⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶/5
🎧🎧🎧🎧/5

This book.. idk where to even begin. The plot was not plotting. Like there was good intentions but it just fell flat for me. The world building was adequate. It is set in Ancient Rome where all the roman nobles are Dragon Shifters, that's all that was really needed to set the world for this book. There was nothing in this book to add to the plot up until like chapter 25. It just overall felt underdeveloped.

The romance in this book was lacking. It was instant love/lust. There was no yearning, there was no build up, and there was no tension. It also was off putting since it was Master/Slave (even though this is advertised as captor/captive which yeah technically but it is master/slave) which occurs in like the first 3 chapters.

The spice was boring. I usually get quite giddy during spicy scenes. I felt nothing.

I almost DNF'd this book but i powered through only because the narrators really carried this book. It just did hit how I wanted/hoped it would.

Dragon shifters, magic, Roman mythology, and characters who make terrible decisions in the name of love. This new Romantasy delivers all of that. I enjoyed the e-book, but the audio narration made me love this book. Dual narration was phenomenal. Each voice added a richness that brought the characters to life and deepened my connection to the story.

Read if you enjoy:
✨ Roman mythology
✨ Dragon shifters
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Political conflict
✨ Captor / captive

The Roman mythology and dragon lore hooked me instantly. I loved how Cross reimagined history through a romantasy lens. It felt unique and made for a more interesting story.

That said, the romance moved a little fast and out of nowhere. It was a little too insta love for me. I love a good fated mates moment, but I craved a little more build up to fully buy into their connection. Give me some longing. Some tension. A little more “will they or won’t they” before the magical soul binding kiss of destiny.

Thank you so much MacMillan Audio for the audiobook and Bramble for the ebook!

There were a lot of things that I truly enjoyed about this book. I loved how protective Julianus was of Malina. I enjoyed her bond with her adoptive family. I love that the setting was ancient Rome and there were some truly good characters. I feel like there was a lot missing but it’s possible that the sequel will solve this. I found myself really struggling to connect with Malina as a character and didn’t enjoy the storyline as much as I expected to. I feel like there was room for more world building, which could definitely happen in the next book. Overall, I feel like I may not be the target audience for this romantasy but the author has definite potential and I’d like to try more of her work sometime.