A USA Today bestseller “Breath of Fire is a heart-pounding and joyous romantic adventure. Amanda Bouchet’s talent is striking.”-NALINI SINGH, New York Times bestselling authorI AM CATALIA FISA, AND I DO NOT BREAKDeep breath in. Long breath out. The Gods are telling me I’m some sort of new Origin, which apparently means it’s my job to give Thalyria a fresh start. Griffin crowned me with the … which apparently means it’s my job to give Thalyria a fresh start. Griffin crowned me with the symbols of the three realms.
If I’m supposed to be not just a queen but the Queen, I’d better start acting like it.
The Kingmaker Chronicles:
A Promise of Fire (Book 1)
Breath of Fire (Book 2)
Heart on Fire (Book 3)
More praise for Breath of Fire
“Bouchet sets the bar for high-concept fantasy romance. Simply brilliant.”-Kirkus STARRED Review
” Bouchet’s] world-building reaches new heights … a] page-turning addition to the series.”-Booklist, STARRED Review
Readers are raving about the Kingmaker Chronicles
“Give this to your Game of Thrones fans.”-Booklist STARRED Review
“Loved it “-ELOISA JAMES, New York Times bestselling author
“Utterly breathtaking “-DARYNDA JONES, New York Times bestselling author
“Masterful worldbuilding.”-Kirkus STARRED Review
“Absolutely fabulous.”-C.L. WILSON, New York Times bestselling author of The Winter King
“Easily my favorite book of 2016 “-Bookriot
“I think you all should just go read it now.”-Smexy Books
“Simply awesome “-The Romance Reviews
more
It’s hard to find good Romantic Fantasy. This is GREAT Romantic Fantasy!
I love when a series continues from where the last book left off the way this one did. Cat is rapidly maturing into the leader she needs to be and has lost the touches of what seemed like annoying personality traits in book 1; her home environment left a whole lot to be desired and her reasons for leaving would turn anyone’s hair white. To expect her to be an adjusted young woman after that is asking too much. Her character growth arc was awesome to watch.
Book two offered more imaginative monsters, battles, and well-crafted action scenes. I loved the relationships between all the characters and the twisty surprises. There was also some satisfaction that a couple of my premonitions proved to be true, which is interesting because if that happens too often a book might be called predictable. It definitely was not, and I was excited to read the final book in the series.
Breath Of Fire gets five/five glowing stars
This was so good and in some ways even better than book one! The action is non stop and the romance ramps up a notch and I just devoured this book. Cat is still as feisty as ever and Griffin still as grumpy. Their banter was such fun and their chemistry off the charts. Cat is really coming into her own and I loved watching her continue to be her badass self. Cat and Griffin have come so far in their relationship but haven’t lost that tension and banter. Kato has also stolen my heart along with Flynn and Carver. And I love how far Jacosta has come and her feistyness. This is just such a great cast and I love all of these characters so much. This really is a fantastic high fantasy world and it has such a good romance. It balances both of those aspects perfectly. And I adore the heavy Greek mythology aspect. That really blends nicely into this world. I’m just loving this series and can’t wait to see how it concludes.
The books are set in a land called Thalyria. It seems to be based largely on Ancient Greece, with Greek language, Greek Gods (who are real in this world), etc. Half the world is ice and half is desert, or so it seems. Magic is stronger in the regions with ice, and weaker in the regions without. Magic is might in this world…
Our two primary characters are Cat and Griffin. Cat is hiding from her evil family, and has made a home with the circus. She is kidnapped by Griffin, who is a warlord who has recently taken control of one of the three Kingdoms in Thalyria. He wants Cat because she has the magic his family lacks.
Cat takes a long time to warm up to Griffin and his team, but I felt that was understandable considering that he literally kidnapped her, put her in danger and made her leave the only people she loved. Yup, fair enough. They are good guys though, and she can’t help but warm to them. Sometimes she resents liking them, which feels like it fits the situation pretty well! I’ve read other reviews that say Cat is a bit whiny, but frankly, I would be too if I was treated the way she was!
I never felt like the story dragged, even after reading all three books in the trilogy. It’s an epic adventure and story, and so it feels okay that it takes three books to tell it.
There is an enormous amount of world building that has gone on behind the scenes, and the creatures (some are mythical creatures I’ve heard of, some aren’t), the gods, the secondary human characters, etc., are all well described and feel like integral parts of the story. You get enough scenery to picture the scene, but not so much that you feel the need to skip pages of description.
There is plenty of action, and if you’re squeamish, it might squick you out a bit. Even the healing scenes can be pretty gory or squicky in their own right.
The general plot of the story is obvious, but the story doesn’t feel predictable. So many things happen that I don’t expect, and things don’t go how I thought they were going to, and it all adds up to keep me interested and keep me turning the page.
The romance between Cat and Griffin is secondary to what is an epic fantasy adventure story. But it’s there.
The secondary characters are fantastic additions to the story, and Kato is a clear favourite. I’m not sure if that’s because he’s Cat’s favourite or mine. Ha ha!
All in all, it’s a fascinating read, and I rated all three books in the trilogy a solid five stars. I recommend them to anyone who enjoys fantasy or epic adventure stories.
In book two of the Kingmaker series, BREATH OF FIRE, Cat and Griffin have many challenges ahead including navigating their passionately intense yet still developing relationship. And now, Cat has a family she cares deeply about and wants to protect. She has been less than forthcoming with her personal history and as happens with secrets, “the truth will out.” Griffin is none too pleased when he discovers the cataclysmic secrets Cat has been keeping from him. Cat’s true identity as the Harbinger of the world puts her and all those she loves in danger as she and Griffin embrace and follow their destines for a united Thalyria. They undertake quite the epic journey beset by magical trials and feats of bravery as well as engaging in a heroic contest in a rival province that will test all of team Beta Sinta’s strength and bravery.
Cat’s heinous upbringing with an abominable mother, who is around causing major trouble, creates a big learning curve in her relationship with Griffin. His ability to love her despite all she has seen and done astounds Cat as she believed herself unworthy of the love now so deeply rooted in her soul. Their relationship gives this book tremendous heart that balances well with all of the fierce action of the story. They undertake, thanks in part to the whims and pleasure of the gods, breathtaking adventures and quests. The bond Cat and Griffin forge is strong and unbreakable; they work together as equals in their missions as Griffin tells her: “You are the shield and I am the sword. Together, we’ll forge a new world.” Even though Cat and Griffin go through some dark and difficult times, their conversations are imbued with fun and humor to lighten the load.
Amanda Bouchet makes magic by skillfully combing elements of Greek mythology with the modern day sensibilities of the challenges a woman faces being a leader among men as she did in the first book of the series, PROMISE OF FIRE. Each tale has all the ingredients of an exciting read including action, adventure, and romance: the perfect trifecta for readers of this genre. The characters have a depth and a quality that makes reading this series a true pleasure. I like characters who, despite their fears, step out in bravery knowing full well they face the ultimate sacrifice which is the true meaning of courage. Cat and Griffin have a long way to go with many challenges to face and battles to fight, but there is joy in the journey because love is the greatest power of all to shed light on the darkness and overcome evil.
“You’re the shield, and I’m the sword. Together, we’ll forge a new world.”
The first book in this series was one of my favorite reads of 2016. I was hooked on the intriguing and amazing world Amanda had created. The characters were so awesome and I fell in love with each and every one of them (not including the villains of course). I first tried to read this book in January when it released, however I wasn’t in the mood for a Fantasy read, so I stopped at 27%. I decided to give it another go, and the story consumed me right away. I had to get used to all the unusual terms and names, so that took some chapters. But after that I was back into the story and could fully enjoy it.
“I would move Mount Olympus itself to hold you in my arms and feel your heart beat against mine. You are my soul, and yes, I will fight for you and protect you until my dying breath.”
I really missed Cat and Griffin, and the rest of the gang. We learn so much from this book, and I loved all the suspense and action. The author does a great job in balancing the right amount of fantasy, action and romance. Everything fit just perfectly together. There was heartbreak and twists to the story. For Cat and Griffin to take over the world and make it a better place, they have to walk a very calculated line, so that there are the least amount of casualties/victims. These two and the Beta Team (Carver, Flynn and Kato) are so courageous and would sacrifice themselves for the greater good. I also loved Griffin’s sisters Kaia and Jocasta. There was also humor in this book and breathtaking action scenes. This series is set in such an UNIQUE world, with so many incredible (mythological) creatures. I wish the third book wasn’t the last one!
Breath of Fire is book two in the Kingmaker Chronicles and it starts right where A Promise of Fire ends.
I did a re-read of A Promise of Fire; before picking this one up. I wanted to be fresh on all the events and also I just loved book one so much that I felt it was time to revisit it.
The beginning was my only issue with this book. I have to say, WOW, I was not expecting that start to a Breath of Fire. I was very shocked and disappointed in Griffin. He knows her past. The abuse both physical and mental, so for him to act that way, was just sad and shocking. I felt for Cat. She didn’t know what was going on, has no experience or good role models on relationships, so it was just heartbreaking. Once that boom and issue got resolved, thankfully it was fast, things moved fast and I do mean fast.
I will say their is a lot more sex and thinking of sex in this book. It felt a bit overwhelming at times and I was wondering if the story was going to get lost in their, but things pick up and we are through back into the gang, now the Alpha Team, to head off to the Iceplains to secure magical creatures to protect Sinta’s boarder, but before that we go on a quest from the Gods and many many things are reveled about several of the Alpha Team members. We also know that war is coming, so to stop this Cat must take up the mantle she has been avoiding, her destiny.
The story, characters, and world are magical. I like the mythology woven in and how the stakes continue to rack up. Cat, Griffin, and Company must face their destinies and their futures. They will have to make tough decisions and take risks that will change them all. The biggest battle is yet to come.
This was another action-packed adventure. So much happens, so much is reveled, new allies, and much much more. I don’t want to spoil it, because really this Fantasy Romance needs to be read. You will not be disappointed.
Rated: 4 Fire Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
4.25/5
I’ve had this for ages (it’s 2nd in trilogy), and I’m so glad I got the push from a book club to continue on. It’s been a minute since I devoured the first one (and loved it!) so it took me a chapter or two to refresh my memory on where we were at.
There’s fantasy, romance, suspense and lots of action here. Also wonderful world-building and ditto on the character development (growth/maturity).
My only con was a repetition of a theme…Cat and her team find danger (in the form of magical creatures/villains), Cat takes the lead to vanquish, gets in over her head and is grievously wounded, is aided by her team and makes a victorious comeback to save the day. I know this was used to illustrate the bond/closeness of her team (“family”), but it could get a bit predictable.
The romance is steamy, but Cat and Griffin are deeply committed and very much in love.
I really enjoyed this, and it was exciting to return to their world. If interested, I do recommend beginning with the first book, A Promise of Fire. I look forward to the conclusion of the trilogy.
Title: Breath of Fire (Kingmaker Chronicles #2)
Author: Amanda Bouchet
Publisher: Piatkus
Edition: Kindle
Amount of Pages: 448
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, New Adult
Date: 05-08-2019 – 06-08-2019
Favorite Quote: “I don’t know why it’s not universally acknowledged that looking back is a terrible idea. It only makes going forward that much harder.”
Review:
Sometimes in a series, a book suffers from the second book syndrome. Meaning that the first book was great, but the second one wasn’t as good as the first one. With this book that wasn’t the case. It was as good as the first one was, maybe even a bit better.
I was so happy to see Cat and Griffin’s relationship developing. I already figured out what Cat was hiding, in book 1 or so, but I’m waiting for her to come out and stay it and for Griffin to find out.
There was still allot of action in this book, the banter was still there and still great, the chemistry with Cat, Griffin and the rest of beta team was great.
I really enjoyed reading this book, the gods where more present in this book and I loved that. I can’t wait for the last book and see how Cat and Griffins story end.
Rating:
4 I really liked it stars
A beautiful read like all Amanda Bouchet books
Thanks to my local library for providing me a copy of the book to borrow, so I can finally read and finish the Kingmaker Chronicles. I’ve had this trilogy on my Goodreads TBR for quite a while now and finally got to the books. After reading the first book to Amanda Bouchet’s new trilogy that came out earlier in 2019, I know I had to read her Kingmaker Chronicles. Her storytelling and characters are addicting to read and listen to when I’m looking for stories to take me away from reality for a while.
First off, you must read the trilogy in order, so if you haven’t read the first book then I highly recommend you do and not read this review. I try not to spoil in my reviews, but just in case I always recommend not reading my reviews of books that follow trilogies/series.
The second book in the Kingmaker Chronicles had a lot of action, adventure, drama, romance, and magic in it compared to the first book, which is why it’s getting a higher rating from me. Five-star rating from me since it was my favorite of the trilogy. (I ended up finishing the last book before typing up this review, so this was my favorite of the trilogy.)
There’s an issue that arises from the first book that is addressed in the second book. Cat’s real identity comes forward and Griffin confronts her about it. These two together though are unstoppable. I loved Cat and Griffin together because they were meant for each other. The adventures these characters go through in this book will test their relationship. There’s also the secondary characters that end up getting the spotlight in this book; Kato, Carver, and even Griffin’s sister. There’s a particular part of the book where a specific secondary character has to do something that is out of his comfort zone, but he does it anyway. There’s also the ending of this book that will have you in shock. I had a feeling though it was going to happen. This book tests all the characters, which is why I enjoyed this book. It kept you turning the page to find out what was going to happen next.
Now onto typing up my review of the third book. If you haven’t read this trilogy yet, then I highly recommend you do if you enjoy Fantasy Romance. I loved how Amanda wrote mythology in this trilogy.
Story Rating: 5 stars
Steaminess Rating: 3.5 stars
Standalone or part of series: Part of a trilogy and highly recommend reading in order.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, definitely.
Will I read other books from the author? Yes. She’s one of my auto-buy authors.
Tropes/Elements: Fantasy Romance; Mythology (Gods/Goddesses)
While this second installment was good, I liked the first one better. I do like how things progressed, but maybe it was a bit too long? I’m still going onto the next book.
I liked this book but not as much as the first one. This book was just a lot of battles but I still enjoyed it.
Amanda Bouchet has a wonderful voice and her characters are multi-dimensional in every way. I have read and enjoyed the entire trilogy tremendously!
Really enjoy this series.
Part of a very entertaining trilogy with great characterization and imaginative plot twists.
Cat and Griffin are back, and they are going to shake things up!!!
In Breath of Fire the Beta Team needs to find a way to protect their borders, while they confront a terrible tyrant. The journey isn’t simple and they don’t know if they’ll come out alive…. but they can try.
Just like the previous book, the story is fun, steamy, and action packed. Cat is still reckless and her body takes some serious beatings, but she takes it all in like an Olympian. Other characters also shine and come into light. I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
Really enjoyed this fantasy. Different take using Greek mythology. Hard to wait for third book. Very good read.
I could use a lot less porn – wish there were more plot, and less “romance”.
Love the series!