Fantasy Romance Review ~ The Fiery Crown (Forgotten Empires, Book #2) by Jeffe Kennedy

Print Length: 398 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1250194334
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (May 26, 2020)
Publication Date: May 26, 2020
Sold by: Macmillan
Language: English
ASIN: B0818MRNYH
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A queen and her rebel prince turn from enemies to lovers while evil forces plot to destroy them in this lush romantic fantasy.

Following The Orchid Throne, Conri and Lia’s marriage of convenience has turned into an uneasy alliance. If only the two leaders could agree on something. Driven by revenge, Conri wants to attack Emperor Anure before the tyrant gets to them first. But Lia needs to keep Calanthe safe, and refuses to sacrifice her kingdom. Their ongoing battle for control has built up tension they’re both more than happy to release in bed, the only place where they find common ground. But Conri and Lia are developing deeper feelings for each other that are complicating matters. In the second book in the Forgotten Empires trilogy, Conri and Lia find their loyalties torn, and with Emperor Anure’s threat growing, will they be able to risk everything with each other before it’s too late?

The Fiery Crown is the second book in Jeffe Kennedy's Forgotten Empires fantasy series. A fake emperor has overthrown all kingdoms claiming the lands, resources, and citizens for himself. All that is but Calanthe, the flower island, because he was promised Euthalia's hand in marriage - a marriage Euthalia has managed to delay time and time again. In book 1, she made the delay permanent by marrying Conrí, a former crown prince, now king, of a long-destroyed kingdom.

Their union is one of convenience and has slowly turned into one of uneasy alliance. Euthalia and Conrí continue to battle for control over what to do about Emperor Anure and how to protect Calanthe. Concessions are made that both allow for Conrí’s revenge and for Euthalia to protect Calanthe but the Emperor has tricks up his sleeve that may destroy Calanthe and Euthalia before the battle is over.

I love both Euthalia and Conrí. They have endured so much in their short lives. So much death, destruction, and injustice and they both seek revenge on the tyrant that brought it all about. I was equally intrigued and horrified by the events that unfolded during the battle between Calanthe and the Emperor. What transpires in the last half of the book had me on the edge of my seat trying not to cry as the inhumanities of war were delivered front and center. The author’s descriptions and vivid imagery brought forth disturbing scenes and emotion-evoking events, but they were necessary parts of the story being told.

I enjoy the author's continued slow path bringing Euthalia and Conrí together. As their affection for each other grows in The Fiery Crown, we get to see the different, tender sides to them, providing views into their humanity outside of the revenge and protection armor they typically wear.

With breathtaking imagery, heart-wrenching scenes and events, and a plethora of twists and turns, The Fiery Crown drew me in, captivated me, and kept me engaged. The book weaves together many other genres besides the fantasy element. The book also features paranormal and magical elements, romantic undertones, mystery, and suspense. I devoured this epic fantasy novel and look forward to The Promised Queen’s release.

I was given a copy of this book to read.