Heat of the Everflame: The Kindred's Curse Saga, Book Three Paperback – 9 Sept. 2023

“The heart doesn’t care who it should love. Only who makes it sing.”This book continues Diem's journey as she finds true meaning to the prophecy "Devourer of crowns". Her character development is highlighted, although she is still alternating between being immature, do-not-know-what-she-was-doing-as-queen and at the same time I-am-the-face-of-the-revolution. She makes do and as she grapples with the challenges of wielding immense power she has formed a good support network around her. Diem's relationship with Luther Corbois remains a cornerstone of the series, and his devotion provides a heartwarming and swoon-worthy element. However, her strong desire to protect him with her life adds friction to their relationship.As this mammoth of a book delves deeper into Diem's magical abilities, revealing her true destiny. We see her power grow, we follow her confronting the fear and suspicion that can accompany such potential. The consequences of wielding too much power are explored, highlighting the human tendency to fear the unknown and the powerful.Cole's ability to maintain a gripping and fast-paced narrative remains a strength. The plot is filled with unpredictable twists and conflicts that keep readers on the edge. The introduction of new characters is seamless, the back stories of these characters add the right amount of complexity to the storyline without feeling forced.The world-building continues to impress. The realm expanded but maintained the meticulous crafting, filled with vivid landscapes and intricate political systems. The author's ability to transport readers into this world is a testament to their storytelling.The series' signature emotional impact is evident in this instalment. Diem's journey is filled with moments of triumph, heartbreak, and fear. The ending is particularly impactful, leaving readers with a cliffhanger that will undoubtedly leave them eager for the next book.Overall, the book is loooooooong, this is the longest of the 3 so far. A lot has happened but it's so gripping that you just can't put the book down. I need BURN OF THE EVERFLAME like 2 weeks ago but there is yet to be an announcement from the author on when in 2024 it will be released.Patiently waiting, tic.. toc...

Okay this was a much better read than the first two. The hatred I had for Diem massively reduced and things actually happened in this book. A lot less frustrating and a more decisive Diem.The pace is faster, the content more interesting, and more world building.

This is the third book in The Kindred's Curse Saga and we join Diem straight after the events of Glow of the Everflame. This book is a wonderfully long read and A LOT happens in it. Put aside a few days because you will not be able to do anything else.Diem really grows as a character and I love her! I find it very easy to understand her feelings and motivations. She continues to be torn between her loyalties to the mortals and her Descended friends and allies. We get a brilliant tour through all of the different realms in Emarion which helps add so much depth to the story, meeting new enemies (and friends) along the way. We also find out a lot more about her background as well as her mother's, which definitely answers questions from the first two books.It's a slow burn, emphasis on the slow but absolutely worth it. The chemistry (and flirting) between Luther and Diem gets better and better as the story progresses and their relationship really builds trust.I can't decide if this is my favourite out of the three books or they are all too good to pick a best one. Either way it's one of my favourite series I've read.Warning: it does end on a cliff hanger but good news is book 4 will be here soon!

*Spoiler Free*I received an ARC of this book, but my review is honest and voluntary.This book has evaporated my soul, crushed my heart, fried my brain, and scalded my sanity. And when it was over, I wanted to return to the start and go through it all again. I thought Glow of the Everflame would be my favourite read this year, but Heat has surpassed it by a mile.What I loved most about this book is that, despite its length, every single chapter kept me hooked and fully entertained. We get to experience so many new, vibrant settings and meet a diverse range of characters (most of whom I instantly fell in love with).That being said, this read was STRESSFUL! So much tension (in all aspects of the word) that it felt like my heart was constantly racing. Grief, sorrow, anguish, emotional hurt, physical hurt, love, betrayal, happiness, joy, relief: everything Diem felt, I went right through it with her. Yet, between all that, there was one particular character that offered the perfect comedic relief and had me dying with laughter from everything that came out of his mouth (tbh, I was even laughing at him when he was silent).I love seeing Diem and Luther's relationship progress throughout this book. Not only do they push the boundaries and learn more about each other, but in the process, they also learn so much about themselves. Seeing them stand by each other through every challenge and battle is heartwarming; it's the true epic love story that every romantic fantasy reader craves.On that note, I have to mention that the magic system and fantasy elements, along with the world-building, are phenomenal and faultless. Penn Cole has added so much depth to these books that I found that it took me twice as long to read because I was painstakingly scouring every sentence for hidden clues and easter eggs. Every time I read between the lines and figured something out, it gave me a thrill, and this was by far the most fun I've had reading a book in a long time. Some secrets were revealed throughout this book, but there's still enough outstanding that makes me so excited for book four. And don't get me started on that cliffhanger! Penn, really? How can you do this to us?I may add more to this review as it pops into my head; as it stands, I'm still reeling. Safe to say, I love this book! <3

Heat of the Everflame had a fascinating premise and moments of real spark, but it didn’t completely ignite for me. The pacing dragged in parts, and while I liked the characters, I didn’t feel fully invested in their journey. A decent read, just not one that gripped me start to finish.