No second-book slump here, though I'm wearying of the long descriptions of battle. Still, this is a very enjoyable number two in a series, with action, sexy times, and just enough love to keep it from feeling gross (for me; YMMV). Also, I'm not sure about the politics of this situation, but okay. It's good enough that I don't care THAT much.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the Digital ARC!

When I read A Promise of Fire last year I knew I'd need to read the sequel. I wasn't the most impressed by this first book but the story itself had a lasting effect. The author's take on Greek mythology is refreshing and intriguing making you want more.

Breath of Fire was full of unrelenting challenges for the characters. They're thrown into one dangerous situation after another with the pacing never letting up. The story itself consists of serious do-or-die scenarios but the unexpected humour at the most inappropriate of times made all the dangers bearable. So much happens in this book and it was just a breeze to read.

Cat is the main reason I enjoy this series. Her ability to crack jokes and make light of the scariest of situations has me laughing all the time. Her inner monologues are laugh out loud hilarious. Though like Griffin, I was not impressed by her recklessness. She kept throwing herself in direct paths to danger like she wanted to get hurt. I understand she has the Gods on her side but she really could use more caution and be more considerate to the people that care deeply for her.

The romance in Breath of Fire was still a bit cheesy. Cat and Griffin's feelings (lusty or otherwise) were a little over the top for me. I will say however, I love the way he motivates and encourages her. Griffin's a great influence even if he's way too bossy and unyielding at times. Ms. Bouchet cranked up the heat scale in this second installment. The sexy scenes between Cat and Griffin were flaming hot. I'd say it even bordered on erotic. I didn't mind though there was one extremely predictable plot twist I saw very early on in the book. We're left till the end for confirmation but it was honestly too obvious to miss.

My second favourite thing about this series is the characters. While Cat and Griffin are the centerpiece on the table the secondary characters are no side dishes. Carver, Kato, Flynn and Jocasta all have their share of turn in the spotlight. Whether it's a simple conversation or random outbursts, there's so much more to them. With the addition of new characters, I'm excited to see what kind of new dynamic might spring up.

I love how beautifully Ms. Bouchet ends the story. She leaves us with the promise of more without dangling a cliffhanger in our face. There's life. There's hope. I'm definitely going to be there to witness both growth!

A blend of Greek myth and original fantasy romance makes this series a tasty treat.  The Kingmaker Chronicles launched hard and fast with the first book and I had high hopes for more gritty adventure and sparkling character interactions with Breath of Fire, the second leg of the story and I indeed got that.

At this point, I would caution anyone who wishes to read the series that it might be best to skip my review until after reading the first book as there will be some series spoilers involved in discussing this second installment which really shouldn’t be read out of order.

Breath of Fire leaps right back into the fray of Cat and Griffin’s tempestuous courtship when Griffin discovers the truth about Cat’s identity as the Lost Princess.  She fears her dishonesty might have pushed him too far on top of learning that the neighboring kingdom of Tarva has designs on conquering their own.  Cat and Griffin decide on a bold plan to defend Sinta so their Beta patrol group heads out on a quest to acquire the perfect border defense.  Their journey is fraught with danger as is the test the gods put to them.  Even more truths become known as the group learns more about themselves and each other.  Cat is terrified that each new revelation will be enough to drive Griffin away and he is strained, but mostly trying to keep her impulsiveness and lack of trust in check.

And then the real danger confronts them…

Wow, this one did not let up.  The action was palpable and had me holding my breath and flying through the pages as did the tension caused by Cat and Griffin’s circumstances and relationship.  More reveals and I could see how this one was like a chess game moving players into position for the end of the game.  The gods favor Cat and their group, but yet even their interference barely keeps them alive and pushing forward with the goal of uniting the warring kingdoms.

Those who read my review of book one, A Promise of Fire, know that I was somewhat on the fence about Cat because her behavior and personality felt younger than she really was.  This feeling continued and even grew stronger which made the abundance of sexy time feel weird to a certain extent.  Cat is more impulsive and pulls a lot of stubborn-stupids in this one.  She’s lucky more than right which I guess isn’t a big deal except others are affected by her choices, too.  The redeeming factor is that Cat is self-aware and learns from her mistakes.  There is also a reveal at the end that shows there is a valid reason for a great deal of Cat’s behavior and forced me to re-assess and lose some of my ambivalence toward her character.

As to Griffin and the others of their family and friends group, they are solid secondary characters.  Each has their own backstory and ongoing plot thread that weaves around Cat who is the focal point.  I love the cast of characters the author has assembled to go on adventures and journeys with Cat.  They work together as a team and they work as a motley crew of underdog friends.

The villains and conflict set against Cat and the others is powerful and tough so that there were no easy wins.  This series relies on the Deus Ex Machina literary device (a god or god figure introduced into a story to resolve the conflict) which generally is a no-no, but I actually thought it worked fabulously with this story in particular.  I think this is because the author doesn’t try to sneak it in just to cover a weak moment in the plot, but the reader knows all along as does Cat that she’s got big-time back-up when things go awry.  I grew to highly anticipate the danger moments just to see what the watching gods would do to aid Cat.

Cat and Griffin’s tested and tried relationship deepens.  I felt that there were probably more sex scenes than necessary particularly under the circumstances, but there were also pivotal moments when they make the choice to hold together and be a couple.  Cat wants to pull away and spare Griffin just as he wants to keep her out of danger, but both know deep down that they must push forward together.  There are changes in this one and I appreciated how strong and courageous Griffin had to be to not just fight, but sometimes to stand strong and let Cat fight and go it without him.  He stood beside her when the time came for her call the shots.

In the end, I am left well-satisfied with this installment and waiting (im)patiently for the next part of the Kingmaker Chronicles story.  Fantasy Romance fans who like spice and strong action really need to pick up this book/series.

My thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The following two tabs change content below.

Sequels. I have a complicated relationship with them, especially if I loved the first book. A Promise of Fire was one of my favorite books this year. It had everything that I wanted out of the book, a sizzling romance, witty characters and a fantastic fantasy world. I couldn’t wait to pick up Breath of Fire when I came into possession of a copy and I’m thrilled to say that yes, this is a sequel that lives up to the first book.

Feisty Cat is back in Breath of Fire, in her full sarcastic glory. I love this girl and her growth and journey throughout this sequel only solidifies my love for her. I like that she’s a heroine that makes mistakes, but she’s also willing to learn from all her mistakes. She had that perfect combo of strength and vulnerability that I absolutely love in fantasy heroines. Though I love it when Cat is kicking butt, I love it even more when she shows her more emotional side, and you see that a lot in Breath of Fire, as she slowly struggles and comes to term with the fact that she has to face a villain who is out to get her and her loved ones. Cat is still as stubborn as ever and there are moments that had me going, “What is she doing?!” as she risks her life, but that’s who Cat is, and that’s not something that’s going to change for a long time.

Alongside Cat, was the gruffy, sexy and oh so swoony, Griffin, who continues to make me melt. As Cat’s partner, we get to see a lot of the guy in Breath of Fire, and I loved every scene with this protective, loving guy. The romance in Breath of Fire was just as steamy as in A Promise of Fire. Actually, I think it was better, because their bond and trust in each continued to strengthen. I will say that there was one scene at the beginning that I really could have done without, because it left a sour taste in my mouth. View Spoiler » Even with that uncomfortable scene, I enjoyed the progression of their relationship. I especially liked that they were a couple that worked through the obstacles that they faced as a team.

Breath of Fire was also amped up on the fantasy elements and the plot. We learn more about the Greek-mythology-inspired world that Bouchet has crafted, as well as more background on Cat’s lineage. The plot too had a different tone to it compared to its predecessor, in that the stakes were much higher and there was more of an adventurous element to it, with more landscapes explored. I loved it all! I was also pumped that we were back with the rest of the secondary cast, who were just as lovable as always. Kato, especially, is at the center of this sequel, and he goes through hell and more, but throughout it all, his love and respect for Cat and Griffin was palpable. I sincerely hope that we will get to see the rest of the Beta Team get a happily ever after too.

Breath of Fire ends on an interesting revelation about Cat, that I’m actually not 100% sure how I feel about yet, but I am looking forward to reading the finale in this trilogy next year. Amanda Bouchet has easily become a favorite author with this debut series, and this sequel in particular, is proof of just how much talent she has to offer the fantasy romance readers.

“Breath of Fire,” book 2 of the Kingmaker Chronicles Trilogy begins where book 1 “A Promise of Fire” left off. Cat’s secret out of the bag turned out to be a new beginning instead of the end of her love affair with Griffin. 

But, that love comes with a price and the price is a journey to the most dangerous part of the realm. And though they have a very small chance of succeeding, their success in this first quest means they must go to a do or die challenge that can change the world or end it. 

To Cat, it is a matter of damn if she does, and damned if she doesn’t. So, does she really have a choice? And will Griffin agree?

Hard to put down once you start, “Breath of Fire” appeals to fantasy readers who are fans of A Game of Thrones. Amanda Bouchet might be a new name in the genre, but she definitely is catching the attention of the very discerning sci-fi/fantasy fans. 

“Breath of Fire” is Rated M for Mature due to violence and sexual content.

This book picks up right where A Promise of Fire left off and doesn't let up with the action, adventure and romance.  Once again I could not put it down. Cat's true identity is no longer a secret. Because she loves Griffin she is willing to face her destiny, even though she's afraid of what it really means. They have a plan that needs a few steps to be successful and they have to survive before they can implement it. The battles they endure kept me on the edge, sweating,worrying about all of these characters. Love Cat's snarky, sarcastic humor and the banter between her and Griffin.  There is still a major confrontation coming as a big part of the third book that will be interesting with an added development. This book will be on my favorite of 2017 list.

Breath of Fire (The Kingmaker Chronicles #2)
Amanda Bouchet
Published: Jan. 3, 2017 (Sourcebooks Casablanca)
Purchase: Book Depository or Amazon
Review source: copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

Reviewed by: Jo

Rating (out of 5): 4 stars

Note: While this review will be spoiler free, it will make reference to the previous book. If you haven’t started this series yet, check out VBC’s review of book 1, A Promise of Fire.

Cat has once again found herself at the heart of Thalyrian politics, the very place she’s been running from for the last eight years. This time though she has a family to stand with, rather than battle against. Cat would be happy with just keeping those she loves out of danger but her love, and Beta Sinta, Griffin has a vision of taking out the vicious magical Royal Families and uniting Thalyria once again. Cat may be starting to want the same goal as Griffin, but with a long ago prophecy naming her as The Harbinger, she’s terrified she may be the very reason it fails.

With the neighboring kingdom of Tarva looking like it may make a Power Bid against Sinta, Cat, along with Griffin and his Beta Team, must travel to the foothills of Mount Olympus in the hopes of securing aid from powerful magical creatures to protect the Sintan borders. But with gods involved things are never simple and quests rarely run smoothly.

Breath of Fire and I got off to a rocky start. It opens with Griffin discovering Cat is in fact the lost princess of Fisa, leading to a brutal argument that sees Griffin destroying their bedroom with a sword and walking out on Cat. It’s all sorted out within the matter of a chapter, and I didn’t really understand the point of it, other than giving me emotional whiplash for seemingly very little pay off and damaging Griffin’s character with behavior that just didn’t sit right for me. These first few chapters also seemed to offer very little in the way of recapping, leaving me feeling pretty lost on some key details from the previous book. (I still can’t remember why Griffin is immune to magic.) This confusion, and a relatively slow pace to begin with, lead to me picking this book up and putting it down a number of times in the first third.

However, after that point something clicked and once again I was utterly swept up in Cat’s story. The quest-vibe gave me nostalgic memories of a favorite childhood film Jason and the Argonauts, with tasks and obstacles constantly challenging our characters. I was really pleased there was more explanation of the world in this installment; I finally understand exactly how Greek mythology fits in and it’s totally working for me. It’s rich and vibrant and I could read about it for days.

Cat and the guys careen from one life or death situation to another, barely pausing for breath, and man do they do it with swag. I love the dynamics between these five; the dialogue had me snorting out loud at times. Cat and Kato in particular form a strong bond when they have to tackle a certain foe together, but her relationships continue to strengthen with all those around her, including Griffin’s sisters as Cat teaches them to kick ass.

Cat’s past, present and future play a big role, and I honestly felt for her as she tried with everything she had to shoulder the weight. She is riddled with self doubt, which she covers with, at times reckless, courage and a wonderful talent for sarcasm, but she’s an easy character to get behind. She discovers some big truths in Breath of Fire, and I can’t wait to see how she goes forward. One things for sure, she’ll be doing that with Griffin firmly at her side. Their romance is absolutely at the heart of this series (get ready for plenty of sexy time), and while Griffin’s overprotectiveness grated a bit for me at times, I loved that their relationship felt rock solid.

All in all, Breath of Fire is a great follow up to A Promise of Fire. While it didn’t give me all the feels like the first, it did make me fall even harder for these characters and this world. I cannot wait to see how it all comes together in the third and (sadly) final book.

Sexual content: graphic sex

Amanda Bouchet’s Breath of Fire continues the tale begun in A Promise of Fire and delivers more romance between Griffin and Cat. As always, our duo is fighting dangers from Cat’s past, enemies from all sides and negotiating with the gods.  Doing a masterful job of delivering a fresh take on the ancient Greek myths, Ms. Bouchet’s series delivers heat and heart as well as action and adventure.

Memorable moment: Hard to say but here is one of many heated kiss scenes.

Griffin leaps forward and yanks me into his arms. Our bodies connect, and a spasm wrenches my chest. It feels so perfect, so right when he holds me like this. Surrounding me, squeezing me until I almost can’t breathe, he rains kisses all across my face.

Enjoyed this sequel to A Promise of Fire.  Had just as much adventure, twists and turns as the first book.  Ready for more!

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Jordan – ☆☆☆☆☆
I read the first book in the Kingmaker Chronicles, A Promise of Fire, and I absolutely loved it, which means I was very excited to get my hands on book #2. Thankfully, Bouchet did not disappoint. Breath of Fire pretty much picks up where A Promise of Fire left off and keeps you enthralled until the very end. The book has just the right amount of action, Greek mythology, and romance neatly woven together. I will say that the beginning was a little slow for me, but it quickly picked up and kept me reading late into the night. I cannot get enough of Cat and the rest of Beta Team, I love them all! I think Bouchet has found a compelling combination and I look forward to seeing what all my favorite characters are up to in book #3 and anything else she does in the future! A solid 5 star read! *****

I encourage fans of Fantasy Romance to start reading this series. Also, for fans of Sarah J Maas' Throne Of Glass series, this one definitely belongs on your TBR List!


Jacki – ☆☆☆☆
I had easily fallen in love with this story after reading the first book and was excited for this installment. I was not disappointed.

Book two of the Kingmaker Chronicles was not any less action filled or exciting as book one had been. It is difficult to review this book without giving too much away.

Catalia's secrets are slowly unraveling one by one, and as they do, her problems keep piling up. She not only has to be even more vigilant of her own safety, but now her relationship with Griffin will face even more tests in the midst of danger being around every corner. She knows that the world needs to be changed, but unlike everyone else, she isn't sure that SHE is the one capable of changing it.

The secondary characters that I loved so much return in this book, and I was just as delighted to see them this as I was before. Griffin's brothers and Cat's friends keep me completely entertained. That is one of my favorite parts of these books. The characters have so much personality that you can't help but love (or hate) them. Cat is a complete firecracker of hilarious sarcasm, and Griffin is an amazing complement to her. Their butting heads is just as entertaining as the fireworks they create together in bed.

Overall, I devoured this book in a very short amount of time and loved every minute of it. This series is one of few of its genre that I have actually liked, let alone fallen in love with. I look forward to the next book and highly recommend it.


Erica – ☆☆☆☆
4.5 Stars.

Breath of Fire had a difficult task ahead of it – living up to the anticipation the debut in the series created. While that was an impossible task, as everything was new and exciting during book one, the sequel made a strong attempt.

Cat and Griffin take on the realms in this installment. Mission 1: Protect their territory. Mission 2: Infiltrate. Mission 3: Stay alive during Missions 1 & 2.

The opener was slightly difficult to digest and felt out of place, as if Griffin suffered from a character trait lobotomy, where he acts out of character. It’s resolved as quickly as it started, but if I were to don my editor hat, I would have told the author to reel it in and find another path to the same conclusion. This tainted my reading experience for a few chapters, because it was written in a different writing style, perfect for a different genre, and at odds with how book one ended. Book two literally picked up where book one ended, which I just finished, so it was whiplash and confusion for both me (the reader) and Cat, followed by nonstop makeup sex.

I will state the novel takes some time to get moving, maybe a quarter of it, where I was unsure what the plot would be for the entirety. (I felt the author didn’t know either, and that’s my professional opinion). But once it’s revealed, the book takes off at light-speed, flowing fluidly, making the reader ravenous for more.

On the adventure front: the novel had this in spades. It reminded me of dungeon looting in an MMORPG, mixed with the ability to respawn of a first-person shooter. The dungeon (cave and arena, and everything in between) was filled with imagery that was lifelike and exciting, creating creatures in my imagination. However, knowing Cat could respawn, took the emotion out of her nearly dying nonstop – this took my enjoyment away and became repetitive. (Not that I want the author to kill anyone.)

On the romance front: the author could’ve chosen to break up Cat and Griffin or make them a stronger couple, and I thank the gods the readers weren’t subjected to unnecessary angst (after that opener). With book one including the build-up to their relationship, book two is working out the relationship kinks while kicking butt and taking names – partners. However, where I felt the lusty tidbits in the predecessor added to the overall enjoyment and anticipation in the novel, there was a ton of between-the-sheets action by our couple in Breath of Fire – it felt like filler in a wash-repeat style and at inopportune times. A few scenes would have added value to their relationship – I ended up skimming past about four more. But that’s my reading style: I need tension and buildup, but once a couple is together, it becomes boring and repetitive in an ‘I’ve read it before’ sort of way. That’s how my mind works, and I don’t assume another reader’s does. Since there are many fantasy traditionalists who don’t enjoy it turning more erotic, I felt the need to add it to my review. I’m in the ‘less is more’ camp, but I do want some, which is why I praised it in book one but not two.

There is a strong thread of family throughout the series thus far. Family doesn’t necessarily equate blooded either. I enjoyed the bits of human emotion displayed by Griffin’s family, and the side stories shown. I’d love a more in-depth look into the romances happening beneath the surface, as they seem to promise an angsty read, but I’d want it from their points of view. (Hoping)

Book three is set by the events in this installment, and I can’t wait to get my greedy little hands on it and see how it all plays out. I truly look forward to anything this author publishes next.

My Thoughts

Back in September I reviewed book one of this trilogy, ‘A Promise of Fire’ and enjoyed it (click on the title to read that review). So it was with great anticipation that I received a copy of book two. Now admittedly I was a little at odds in reviewing book one, due to the seemingly awkward clash of fantasy and fun. However, I overlooked some things, believing in what I thought would be it’s long term promise. Now I’m not so sure. Don’t get me wrong, I did enjoy book two, just not quite as much as I loved, ‘A Promise of Fire’. Book one demonstrated real potential, with snappy comebacks and good action scenes. Sady, it would appear the dreaded second book syndrome reared its ugly head. 

“What’s it like being the Lost Princess? The woman everyone is looking for?”

To pinpoint where it exactly went off is difficult, as much of the same winning formula is there, but perhaps to excess. Was book two on steroids and became overkill? Maybe. This was narrated at a crazy pace with the formulaic adventure/crusade, leads to near death, leads to magic healing, leads to manic sex, then repeat it all again until the end of the instalment. From start to finish this was just full on action as they brave the Ice Plains, battle innumerable scary creatures and come out with their lives from each encounter time and again. I just wanted more character development and less near death experiences.

Does he think I’m not afraid? I’m terrified. Constantly. I just do things anyway and hope for the best. Admittedly, that’s not always the best strategy, but sometimes there really isn’t much choice.

It’s hard to admit how much I struggled to get through this book. As I said, it’s not bad, it just seemed a rehashed, overpowering imitation of the first book. The sexual tension between the two main leads,  has been replaced with, at times, questionable physical interactions, to put it nicely. The first few passages are confronting and rather topical as many may see it as domestic violence. To even have that question hanging is detrimental to the good of the story. Of course there are the same fights and make-ups throughout, but it all became a bit tedious. However, here is more to the story than their relationship and that sets things up for a dramatic book three.

You are my soul, and yes, I will fight for you and protect you until my dying breath.”

There is still much to appreciate about this fast paced action book. Bouchet’s writing style is highly engaging and her research and twist on Greek mythology amazing. Also the secondary characters really come to the fore in this book and add great depth to the tale. Would I read book three? Most definitely as Bouchet has me invested in the dramatic plot and whether the kingdoms will ever be united and what of Cat’s mother. 

We’ll change the world, Cat, and we’ll do it without the war you fear. 

So whilst the second book did not live up to my expectations, it still maintains that strong storyline which is sure to please fans - and one must remember, these books MUST be read as one entity, they are not standalones. Here is hoping that this is just a small hiccup and ultimately this series will prove to be a memorable debut. 

“You end the scourge. You rebuild the kingdom. You’ve had more than eight years to think about it. Now stop hiding and do something!”



This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release

Wow I didn't think I could love this as much as book 1 but I was wrong! It's more action packed and the romance gets turned up to eleven (sorry had to throw that little Spinal Tap line here lol) I am DYING to read the finale to this series like now!!!!

I was so happy to be back in this world.  I love that it’s based in Greek Mythology and the characters are phenomenal.

I missed Cat and Griffin so much. They have an intense bond no matter how hard Cat tries to fight it at times. They fight well together, and when they are alone sparks fly off the pages. They are a couple that I absolutely love! We also learn a bit more about some of the secondary characters, and I love how fierce Jocosta becomes when she needs to be.

There are still some pretty humorous moments. I mean Cat is a wonderful smarty pants and sarcastic which I really enjoy. And be prepared for lots of action. I swear Cat can’t stop from getting herself into trouble.

I loved this book, and I really like where this series is headed.  The wait for book three is going to be torture, but well worth the wait.

Cat, Griffin and Beta Team continue on their mission to try and unite the three kingdoms. All the while, Cat’s mother tries to force her to go back to Fisa. It took me until I was three quarters of the way through the story to really get into it. After the quests, the team arrive at the Agon games and this is where the story really kicks off.
I enjoyed the last quarter of the story so much more than the rest! By this time, Cat has come into her own – she is less “sassy” and more witty, and a true force to be reckoned with. I also enjoyed the various cameos made by the Olympian gods.

Action and adventure, gods and magic – Breath of Fire is a rollicking fantasy romance with characters that leap off the page. It’s no CL Wilson or CS Pacat, but, aside from some red flag behaviour, it’s a fun fantasy romance.

I had high expectations for this book. While I did enjoy the book, I didn't love it nearly as much as the first book in the series.

The book literally picks back up where the first book left off. Griffin is furious at Cat for lying to him about her identity. He goes into a fit of rage and becomes destructive. Cat believes their relationship is over but she can't leave due to the binding vow she took. She leaves the main castle and Griffin loses his mind. I was confused by all of this because the communication between them started off poorly.

They make up and the story slowly starts to propel forward. Cat and Griffin's bond is tight despite the fact that she doubts herself. She holds onto a few more secrets but we soon discover them. What I like is that we learned about her painful past and the prophecy of what is to come. She will ultimately become the big bad.

I like the Greek mythology however it takes up a good portion of the book. Cat is very reckless in her behavior. Though she is strong and bad ass, she doesn't have any real challenges because every time you turn around a God is there to save her. So I never held my breath through any of the action scenes and there are tons. The games at the end was too drawn out for my taste. 

Cat and Griffin fight, have sex (it was very steamy too!) and get thrown into action scene where she almost dies. This happens over and over. I want them to get ready to fight big bad momma now and close this out.

*ARC provided to me via netgalley for an honest review*

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1797611846

I don't want to give anything away for the first book but I absolutely loved this book! Everyone should have this book on their TBR!!

Breath of Fire is  the second book in the Kingmaker Chronicles by Amanda Bouchet.  Much like the first one it is full of magic, Greek mythology and action.

Cat is now well accepted and even loved in Sinta, and Griffin and herself now set their sights on Tarva and Fisa, their aim is to unite these three into one and rule with care and justice. In this book Cat reveals more about herself to Griffin and his family. There are some fireworks between the couple, but really Griffin has one true love and that's Cat and it's not about to change.

They travel on a long arduous journey to seek help, and while Cat might have the gods on her side, it is not always certain they'll show up and support when the going is rough.  And just when one journey is completed, the action takes on an even more deadly course.  Tarva is hosting a games where teams fight to the death. Reminded me a little of The Hunger Games!

There is always something happening in this book, be it the relationship between Cat and Griffin, the many fights and tight corners the team finds themselves in, or the people who show up at opportune times. 

I enjoyed seeing Jocasta - Griffin's sister, taking more of a role in this book and would really like to see her have a stable relationship develop with Flynn one of Griffin's team. There is news for Cat that she doesn't see coming, although Griffin has an inkling and plenty of hints are dropped for the reader to pick up on.  And I enjoyed the way Griffin helps Cat to see herself as she truly is, so that as the story moves on, she grows as a leader and a person. She can also be pessimistic so his optimism is refreshing and healing for her as well.

I will certainly be looking forward to the third book in the trilogy as they turn towards Fisa, and Cat's wily, tyrannical mother who needs to be dealt with.

I cannot even tell you how excited I was for this book. The first book in this series hooked me so bad! I’m so thankful I was able to get approved for this one so I didn’t have to wait in between the books at all!

*Fair warning: This review will have spoilers for the first book in the series. Don’t read further if you don’t want to know.*

Having just finished the first book, this second one starts exactly after the first one. It was nice reading them back to back to not have any of the recap that some books do but if it’s been a while since you read the first one, you might need to do a quick review before starting the second. Unless maybe you’re unlike me and have a great memory.

Another thing you should be prepared for with this one is that Cat and Griffin’s relationship is definitely different than the first. Which, if you’ve read the first, then you know. But what I wasn’t expecting from it was for so much of the beginning of the book to be just sex scenes. And cliched scenes at that. You know, the kind where everything is amazing and the women want everything and it’s all mind-blowing, like eight times in a row and they can’t believe how perfect they are for each other. All of that.  It was almost so bad that I stopped reading but I knew from reviews that it would move on in a bit, so I stuck with it. And I’m glad I did. But getting through that first part that was almost just erotica and then the alpha Griffin moments, it was a little disappointing for me. But by the end, I loved them together. They learned to work together and respect each other and had a much better relationship in the end. Which is really what it’s all about. Especially considering neither really seem to have had a lot of real experience in the relationship department. So while the relationship between them wasn’t always what I wanted, I did appreciate the growth they went through together during the story.

Once we got past the beginning and all of the sex scenes, things really started happening to move the plot along. I really enjoyed about the last 30% where so much of it is action and fighting scenes and page-turning moments. I know we need the in between and I was fine with most of it but it did get a little bit slow in the middle. And I also really enjoyed getting to see Griffin’s family again and spending some more time with all of them. We also get to see some of the characters from Alosa’s old lives too, which was interesting. I really like all of the characters and their developments throughout the book. I know that can sometimes take a backseat when you’re talking about romances and fantasy stories for all of the action but none of them felt neglected and I loved that. It’s probably my favorite part of the books, just getting to spend more time with the characters.

In the end, I didn’t love this one as much as the first but it was still a really good installment. I wish I had liked the romance parts better but I did really love the fantasy and action elements. Plus, the characters continue to pull me in. I have a few predictions for the next one but I’m not going to share them because I’m usually pretty wrong on those kinds of things. But I am definitely interested in seeing how the next book plays out after that ending!

If you’ve been looking for epic fantasy and romance all smashed into one great series, I highly recommend you check out these books!

Explosive action and romance!

Talk about clash of the titans!  This second in the Kingmaker Chronicles has it all. Greek gods and goddesses, a love story that keeps on giving, and monsters out of legends.
Cat (Catalia Fisa), warrior and Kingmaker, is still fleeing from her destiny and as usual just ends up tumbling towards it at breakneck speed, despite her avowed reluctance (but then that seems to be Cat--she falls from one situation into another within the blink of an eyelid.) She's still fleeing from her mother and determined to stay with Griffin--after all she bound herself to him magically. Still being confronted magically by her mother and hurt every time--physically and emotionally.
What with crossing the Ice Plains, confronting a Chaos Wizard, obtaining doubtful god given gifts (be careful what you wish for!), facing off various trials in a monstrous labrynth, and facing the Hydra! The tension just keeps escalating!
But when Cat and Griffin hatch a plot to overcome the neighbouring king, the action shifts up to a whole new and explosive pitch!
And I haven't even mentioned the way Cat and Griffin's relationship keeps growing, despite Cat's many misgivings. Her deep passion for Griffin is splendid.

A NetGalley ARC

All reviews appear on Amazon, Goodreads plus Gr Facebook, LibraryThing plus LT  Twitter, eyes.2c review blog (January 2017)