I devoured this book in 24 hours. Literally. Couldn't. Put. It. Down. Reading into the middle of the night, telling myself “just one more chapter".

Deb Ellen has created a world that's alive with:

🪄 Magic that’s both mysterious and dangerous
🏰 Intricate political power plays
💘 Romance that feels earned, not forced
🌍 Stunning world-building
👯‍♀️ Friendships that made me emotional

The plot and storline was unpredictable in the BEST way. Every time I thought I had something figured out—absolutelynot! I never knew what was coming, and that’s so rare these days.

But I’ll be honest—keeping track of the factions, lands, and all the names was a lot. At times, I had to flip back or pause to reorient myself. A glossary or map would’ve helped. Though I do find myself in this predicament with other fantasy books, it's alot to take in.

Still, that didn’t take away from how much I loved this story. The pacing was electric, the stakes were high, and the emotional payoff and interpersonal relationships between the characters was fantastic.

I’m now desperate for book two. I need answers. I need more of these characters. I need MORE WILDFIRE.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8 if I’m being picky about the complexity)

With thanks to Deb Ellen, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review.

Wildfire surprised me—in the best way. It starts with heartbreak and ballet shoes, then sweeps you into a world of elemental magic, political unrest, and a heroine who’s just trying to keep her world from falling apart (again).

Evie is raw and real. She’s grieving, angry, and powerful in ways she doesn’t fully understand yet. Watching her grow into that power—while navigating a complicated new world and an even more complicated ex-assassin named Kit—was such a satisfying journey. Their dynamic is slow-burn perfection: tense, tender, and never overdone.

Deb Ellen’s writing is vivid and immersive, with just the right balance of action, emotion, and world-building. The lore is rich , but it never overshadows the heart of the story: a girl learning to trust herself again.

If you love romantasy with depth, danger, and a touch of the unexpected, Wildfire is absolutely worth your time. I'm looking forward to book 2!

Some stories entertain, but Wildfire did more. I loved this book and couldn't put it down. Evie’s journey was one of strength, struggle, and self-discovery, and every moment with her felt raw and real. I found myself rooting for her, aching with her, and celebrating her triumphs. 

And Kit—what a beautifully complex character. The slow-burn romance between him and Evie had me completely hooked, each interaction brimming with tension and emotion. Their chemistry was palpable, making their connection feel so authentic.

And then there’s Ishmael—complex, mysterious, and impossible to ignore. Every scene with him added depth to the story, making me constantly question his motives and alliances. Although I feel he only took interest in Evie when he found how who she really was.

Beyond that, the world-building is incredible. Syrestia feels so real, like a place I could step into and get lost in. The magic, the politics, the danger—it all came together perfectly. 

This book left me thinking about it long after I finished. If you’re into fantasy with high stakes, deep emotions, and characters that stay with you, Wildfire is absolutely worth the read! 

P.S Team Kit 🥰

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for gifting me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I am so ready for book 2! This leaves you with wanting more and devouring the book all at the same time. It had a good intense slow burn and you can't help but feel for Evie who is struggling, grieving and fierce all at the same time. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I enjoyed reading how this developed and seeing where it goes

Wildfire was an intriguing read, but I found myself getting distracted by not fully understanding the world building which was key to the larger plot and conflict. I understand that this was important as Evie was also brand new to the world as she grew up in the mortal realm and kept in the dark regarding her birthright and her parents’ backgrounds.

The political intrigue felt unique and kept me guessing of what was going to happen. There was a wide variety of powers that I wish was further explained and fleshed out.

Kit was an interesting MMC, but one of my most frustrating things was his behavior whenever he almost became or was intimate with Evie. It was really disappointing that I felt he was using her.

The introduction of Ishmael is the main reason that I am most interested in continuing the series.

I feel like the writing doesn’t do a good enough job of conveying what’s happening to us in certain scenes. Also the world building is hard to follow at times. It just feels a little forced, overall.

The action in the book was repetitive in my opinion. Girl gets upset, does something she’s not supposed to, something bad happens and she gets caught, rinse and repeat.

The idea itself is very cool. I love the “normal” modern human world aspect and different worlds and realms, and the lore as well. I’m interested to see how this will end up playing out but tbd on if I’ll pick up book 2..

I do not like Kit. At all. I’ve read plenty of books with rough MMCs, and usually I don’t mind, but this is too much for me… lifting her BY HER THROAT, slamming her into walls and furniture, etc… and then saying he cares for her.. it just doesn’t track. But Ishmael is intriguing and I am curious about THAT storyline playing out.