I didn’t expect to get pulled in so quickly, but I was. The story has that exciting feeling of stepping into a hidden world, the same kind of thrill I remember from the fantasy books I loved growing up. Riley feels like a normal guy who suddenly lands in something much bigger than him, and watching him figure things out and rely on his friends felt real. The pacing moves along without dragging, the magic is fun and easy to follow, and the friendships give the story its heart. It was an enjoyable read and I’m genuinely curious to see what happens in the next book.

This was really well done. I was surprised at how much this kept me engaged. I am excited to see where this one leads and will absolutely be checking out the next book in the series.

Riley Jordan sabía que crecer en el mundo mágico no garantizaba tener todas las respuestas. En su último año universitario en Lestoria, un reino escondido entre dimensiones, solo tiene claro que todo el mundo parece tener un destino menos él. Pero cuando un viaje mágico sale terriblemente mal, Riley y sus amigos irrumpen accidentalmente en la vida de Emma, una chica humana capaz de resistir la magia. Su encuentro desencadena preguntas prohibidas, secretos milenarios y un vínculo imposible de ignorar. Ahora Riley debe decidir si sigue la vida que otros trazaron para él o si desafía las reglas de un mundo que podría destruirlo todo por proteger sus verdades.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

This is a really interesting story dealing with a college for people with magic. There is a tight group of 4 in the college that will end up taking on a huge task to help save many. They have a friendship that reminds me of Harry Potter. It was a fun read with plenty of action.

Amazing book. I couldn't stop reading I stayed up all night. I loved the book so much thank you for the arc.

Lion of Fire was an engaging and entertaining start to a fantasy trilogy that blends magic, prophecy, and portal travel with a modern college setting. The story follows Riley Jordan, a college senior who feels behind in life and unprepared for the magical responsibilities he was born into. When an accident brings Emma, a human from another world, into his orbit, Riley begins experiencing disturbing visions of a future ruled by a dark wizard where Emma plays a central role. As his powers awaken, Riley is forced to confront both the prophecy hanging over him and his own insecurities.
The pacing kept me invested, especially once the portal hopping and larger magical stakes came into play. The friendships between Riley and his companions added warmth and humor, balancing the darker elements of prophecy and impending war. While some parts of the story felt familiar within the genre and a few moments could have used deeper emotional development, the overall journey was exciting and well constructed. This book sets up the larger conflict clearly and left me curious to see how Riley’s role in the prophecy will continue to unfold.

This was a fun read. It reminded me of Percy Jackson with older characters. I enjoyed not only the world building, but the characters as well. They all felt like their own person and not cookie cutter. Riley is a great underdog character and I’m really interested in. I can’t wait to see where the series goes.

Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC

Lion of Fire by Brittany Ranew is book #1 of The Fire Prophecies.
Riley Jordan is a senior in college in the magical realm of Lestoria. Although most of his classmates know their special magic power, Riley hasn't found his. One day, Riley and his three best friends accidentally land in a human girl's bathroom. Instantly, Riley feels a special connection with Emma. He begins to have visions of a dark wizard threatening the elimination of humankind, including Emma. With his best friends by his side, they vow to stop the dark wizard and discover more than they bargain for.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Brittany Ranew for sending me an advance copy. This is my honest review.

I thought this book was a delightful read. The pacing was good and I really enjoyed the friendships that Riley and his friends have cultivated. Each of their special magic powers compliment one another. I thought the author did a great job in creating the magical world of Lestoria. The magical creatures, special transportation modes, and creative tunnel systems all add to the world building. Personally, I thought it was refreshing that Riley and Emma's relationship is the slowest of slow burns. I love a book that has yearning, so if you are looking for a spicy book this is not it.

If you enjoy Percy Jackson, a protective MMC, found family, and elemental magic then you will definitely have a fun time reading this book. Honestly, I cannot wait to read book #2 when it comes out in 2026!

First and foremost, a huge thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy (eARC) of this spectacular debut! Lion of Fire is everything you could possibly want in a gripping upper YA fantasy. The Lit Whisperer's analysis confirms that this book delivers a phenomenal opening to a prophecy-driven series. The plot is great—it moves with a relentless energy, throwing the protagonist into dangerous situations and high-stakes choices that are compelling and believable. Beyond the action, the settings are sublime, feeling richly realized and vividly brought to life; you can practically feel the heat and magic emanating from the page. With a satisfying conclusion and a host of unanswered questions, I am eagerly waiting for book 2!
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This YA fantasy sweeps you into a world of fire, magic, humor, and twists driven by intricate prophecies. At its center is a loyal group of four friends fighting to keep magic users from being extinguished—a mission that becomes more dangerous and emotional than any of them expect. The story balances action and heart beautifully, with a fire dragon that absolutely steals the show.

While it carries echoes of Percy Jackson and Harry Potter, the book stands out with its own unique flare, modern tone, and creative magic system. Engaging, funny, and full of spark.
Note: does contain some language.