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All hail the Fire Queen.

Against all odds, Ruby has defeated the villainous Frost King and melted his throne of ice. But the bloodthirsty Minax that was trapped inside is now haunting her kingdom and everyone she loves. The answers to its demise may lie to the south in Sudesia, the land of the Firebloods, and a country that holds the secrets to Ruby’s powers and past…

Despite warnings from her beloved Arcus, Ruby accompanies a roguish Fireblood named Kai to Sudesia, where she must master her control of fire in a series of trials to gain the trust of the suspicious Fire Queen. Only then can she hope to access the knowledge that could defeat the rampaging Minax—which grows closer every moment. But as sparks fly in her moments alone with Kai, Ruby no longer knows whom to trust. The fates of two kingdoms are now in her hands.

416 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 2017

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About the author

Elly Blake

13 books1,996 followers
NYT bestselling author of the Frostblood Saga. Elly Blake loves fairy tales, old houses, and owls. After earning a BA in English literature, she held a series of seemingly random jobs, including project manager, customs clerk, graphic designer, reporter for a local business magazine, and library assistant. She lives in Southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and a Siberian Husky mix who definitely shows Frostblood tendencies.

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5,069 (34%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,283 reviews
Profile Image for Melissa ♥ Dog/Wolf Lover ♥ Martin.
3,540 reviews9,969 followers
December 3, 2017
I loved it as much as I did FROSTBLOOD. =)



Ruby is a member of King Arcus court after defeating the old crazy king. But the Minax is still loose on the world and Ruby must find it and destroy it or it's going to keep killing more people.

Meanwhile, a whole bunch of jerks don't like Ruby around and want to take out Arcus because they are evil and all of that. Then they are stupid enough to stage an attack (fail) and this introduces Ruby to Kai, another Fireblood. What? And then Ruby sails off and tries to win over the Fireblood Queen and such, ends up in some trials and some crazy stuff happens with the Minax AGAIN. Can we not get rid of that thing -er- things.

Like I said, I really enjoyed this book and I'm hoping we will have happy endings in the last book, I think it will be the last book. Anyway, happy endings or I'm going to throw things =)

Happy Reading!

Mel ♥

MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
Profile Image for Khurram.
1,672 reviews6,661 followers
July 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. The book did start out a bit slow, but when it started to get going, the action and revelations came thick and fast. I can't believe this is Elly Blake's second novel. I thought Frost Blood was a great debut she carries the momentum on in this novel.

The character development is great, but the characters still stay true to themselves from the original story. In the first novel, we were introduced to Ruby, the outcast, a Fireblood in a kingdom ruled by ice. Here, we lean more of her origins as well as the land of fire. Prophecies, magic, and destiny combine to create a great story.

The stunning revelations of the story just kept coming, and I was just hungry for more. Till the last page, I can not wait to see what happens next. I hope book three does justice to the great first two books of the series.

This book is a great combination of storytelling, twists, and character development. If this was the prelude to the war, I really can't wait for the next chapter. There is not as much action in this book as the first book, not the development of both the characters and their powers, as well Ruby's origin more than make up for it.
Profile Image for Ahmed  Ejaz.
549 reviews323 followers
January 25, 2019
“You are a flame, Ruby, and fire can either be free or it will be smothered. The last thing I want...The last thing I want is to smother you.” 
I read this book sometime in November 2018 but forgot to review it because of uni routine. But now I'm gonna review it by recalling as much as I remember.

>>There was an addition of a new character named Kai. Liked him. He is as much adorable as Arcus. The amazing thing is he is a Fireblood.
>>Ruby, along with Kai, went to Sudasia to find more about Minax. I loved their journey to Sudasia.
>>Ruby had to take some trials to become a Fireblood Master which will help her to gain more access to domain of Firebloods. And hence she would find more about destroying the Minax.
>>The thing I really love about this series is its mythology. It's one the best.
>>The writing of this author is also one of best. Really loved this.
>>The love interest in the series has become very confusing in this part. Ruby has spent equal amount of time with both of the protagonists: Arcus and Kai. Both the boys care about her very much. And she has become close to both of them. She is also confused I think.
>>The character of Ruby has become more strong.

I also started the last book in December of 2018 and still hasn't completed it because of the same reason. Now I'm free, so will complete it soon.

23 January, 2019
Profile Image for Lauren.
1,179 reviews316 followers
Shelved as 'lost-interest-not-for-me'
April 24, 2017
LOLOLOL NOPE.

Explain to me how one guy can be 'the love of her life' and called 'beloved' while 'sparks fly' with another one. I just can't with this nonsense. *insert major eye roll*

This is exactly why I don't usually read a book without carefully researching what's to come. Looks like I'm still being burned.
Profile Image for Nasom.
195 reviews141 followers
September 1, 2018
Full Review

Love triangle and cliches aside, I really enjoyed this

What I liked
- Whereas the first book was all about Frost, this was all about fire. I enjoyed reading about Ruby's journey to self discovery. She is finally in a place that doesn't see her as the enemy, and she gets to master her fire powers and find out more information about the land that her mother was from.

- I liked the mystery element in this. In the first book, there was a clear sense of who the evil person or entity was but in this, everyone just seemed suspicious to me. I didn't know who was good and who was pretending to be good.

- There is also a suspense plot: Ruby is on a mission to destroy a dark entity called the Minax and to do so, she has to sneak around and lie to people because she doesn't really trust them. The whole sneaking around thing made the book interesting and it kinda made me anxious lol.

- There was a plot-twist that I didn't see coming so that was good!

- I Love Arcus so much!! and Ruby + Arcus. They would literally do anything for each other (especially Arcus to Ruby). Arcus calling Ruby 'his home' was just too cute 💕❤️

What I didn't like
- The love triangle. To fair, it wasn't as bad as others, I just don't like triangles. I Ship Ruby with Arcus so much that I wasn't pleased with the introduction of Kai. Good news is that it was handled somewhat properly.

- This book had a heavy case of special girl syndrome! If Ruby becomes any more special, she would be a literal unicorn.
Profile Image for Anniebananie.
552 reviews399 followers
November 27, 2018
3,5 Sterne

Also mal abgesehen vom Liebesdreieck und einigen etwas zu einfachen/offensichtlichen Lösungen von Problemen hat mir auch Band 2 wieder gut gefallen und mich unterhalten können.
Ich mag die Richtung in die sich das Buch entwickelt hat und auch unsere Protagonisten waren mir nach wie vor sympathisch. Allerdings bin ich nicht der allergrößte Fan unseres Antagonisten, da gibt es irgendwie interessantere 🤷🏼‍♀️
Gegen Ende gab es leider noch einen Logikfehler, der mich ziemlich gestört hat. Allerdings mag ich Elly Blake's Schreibstil nach wie vor, das Buch lies sich wieder flüssig und flott weglesen und die trockene Art von Ruby und auch von Arcus und Kai haben mich ab und an echt zum Lachen gebracht. Zusammengefasst: holpriger Start, richtig guter Mittelteil und holpriges Ende.
Freue mich dennoch sehr auf das große Finale in Band 3 😊
Profile Image for Lucie V..
1,013 reviews2,079 followers
August 16, 2022
✅ Kind of love triangle / Angst and drama
✅ Magic / Powers
✅ Action
✅ Plot
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Politics
✅🆗 World-building

I enjoyed Fireblood more than Frostblood, it is less predictable, but even so, the story and love triangle are nothing new.

The new love interest (Kai) is a really good character, I like him way more than Arcus. It was not really a love triangle, more of Ruby having a crush on Kai while she was far away from Arcus, but poor Kai never stood a chance against Arcus. Honestly, I am sad that Ruby didn't ditch Arcus so she could live happily ever after with Kai.

The only parts I really enjoyed with Arcus in this book were the parts with all the angst and drama between Ruby and him, because they both love each other, but they are also both afraid to let it show.

“Why do we always go back to hurting each other?” I asked in a small voice, hoping not to destroy the fragile truce.
He paused long enough that I started to worry. “Because we feel too much,” he said roughly.


In Fireblood, Ruby is going to Sudesia to meet with the Fireblood queen and hopefully convince her to sign the peace treaty with Arcus. I liked that this book was more about Ruby's self-discovery, and it was also more mysterious. In Frostblood, it was quite clear from the first chapter who was the big mean guy in the story. In this sequel though, it was not as clear and I was doubting everyone, there was also a plot twist near the end that I didn't see coming.

I really enjoyed reading this book, but I hope that the "special girl syndrome" will be toned down in the next book because if Roby gets any more special I think she will become a Goddess.

I am eager to read Nightblood and to see how it will all end.

“We need to be prepared for the worst.”
“Except the worst keeps getting…worse.”



Frostblood ⭐⭐⭐⭐




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Profile Image for nick (the infinite limits of love).
2,120 reviews1,365 followers
November 23, 2017
UPDATE AFTER READING

OK so it really wasn't a love triangle. The synopsis is very bait-y, in my opinion, and makes it seem like the relationship between Kai and Ruby goes beyond friendship. It doesn't. Ruby is still devoted to Arcus despite the distance between the two.

Anyways, this one lacked the spark of the first book in general. A lot happens, plot-wise, but I missed some of the character interactions from the first book. I'll be reading the finale to wrap up the series for sure though!

----------------------------------------------------

Why must this have a love triangle? The romance in the first book was so good.
I AM NOT A HAPPY CAMPER after reading that summary. :( :( :(
Profile Image for Suzzie.
918 reviews161 followers
September 14, 2017
You know how when you love characters in a book so much that you just hope someone stirs up some s**t so you can get another book or two out of the series? These are those type of characters! I love them! I remember when I read Frostblood I was skeptic because of some mixed reviews but that has never stopped me from reading a book so I dove in...and I really really liked it! This one was even better in my opinion. I started it last night after I finished Warcross and had half it read before bed when I only planned on reading a couple chapters before bed.

Overall, better than the first (which I enjoyed immensely) and with awesome characters to read about; even the bad ones!
Profile Image for Mlpmom (Book Reviewer).
3,010 reviews378 followers
August 22, 2017
Stayed up all night reading this and I do't even regret it, it was so good! Full review to come!

EDITED TO ADD FULL REVIEW:
The first book in the Frostblood series completely captivated me. I plowed through it in no time at all. It was completely addicting and hard to put down. I was surprised that this was the author's debut novel and even more surprised that something that seems like it's been done before could so capture my attention and seem new and exciting.

With her sequel Fireblood, she proved that Frostblood was no fluke, this woman can write and weave a story that both seems unique and is completely compelling and once again, hard to put down. I read into the wee hours of the morning to finish this and I don't regret the bags under my eyes or the loss of sleep, not. One. Single. Bit.

I can't even begin to describe how much this series hooked me. The writing, the fast paced story line, the very heart of the characters themselves, all of it. It is just one of those series that you truly need to try and experience for yourself to truly get it and understand how addicting it can be. I seriously can not recommend it enough.

*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Dana Kenedy (Dana and the Books).
212 reviews1,013 followers
January 20, 2018
3.75/5: This review can also be found on my blog, Dana and the Books.

Sequels can be a tricky thing to get right. You have to recreate the magic of the first book, yet make sure the second book shines on its own.

Thankfully, Fireblood is a worthy sequel. Actually, I thought it was better than Frostblood. It's fun and easy to read. The perfect combination when all you want to do is escape in a book!

Yes, Frostblood wasn't the most original of stories, and Fireblood follows suit. It definitely follows the YA Fantasy formula with some cliches thrown in:

Ruby has to compete in trials
Love triangle
Royalty from neighbouring country
A few others, but spoilers!


But honestly? I'm fine with all that as long as it's done well. The cliches make sense in the story. They don't feel as though they're included Just Because - they all contribute to the larger plot.

In my review for Frostblood, I mentioned the romance between Ruby and Arcus didn't do anything for me and would have been better had it been left out. To me, Arcus was the weakest part of book one. I felt like he was included purely as a convenient love interest and let's be real, he was kinda a dick. After reading Fireblood, I still dislike Arcus. However, now we get Kai! I think it's absolutely safe to say I'm Team Kai. The scenes between him and Ruby didn't feel contrived or forced like they did with Arcus. I don't think they'll be the endgame, but one can dream!

Circling back to the trials: I personally loved that plot line! Competitions are always such a blast - especially in fantasy books.

Overall, Fireblood surpasses Frostblood in quality. It's tighter, well paced, and addictive.  If you enjoyed the first book, or even moderately enjoyed it, you'll want to pick this one up. If the trend continues then Nightblood may end up being the best of the bunch!

Book Links: Book Depository | Amazon US | Amazon Canada | Amazon UK
Profile Image for Lara (Bookish_turtle).
261 reviews189 followers
October 6, 2017
Okay. Where to start? Let me begin this review with a paragraph summarising my overall feelings:

ASDGNHMAJM>FADslfg.gf;sdg..h./j.k/j./g???????NOOOOOOOOO!!!UGH!?!?!?ASDFGHJKL ASDFGHJKKKKK.ajifdsbhfbdkwdjfkjButYESYESYESARGHHHHHHHHdfgsdjfgshiNOWAYWHATREALLY???DTFGJHBfnsdkglfgkeljmeknrghebgkurgASDFGHJK!!!!!.<3<3
<3

So, yes. That is how I felt. I will now attempt to translate, but I am very emotional right now, so consider yourselves warned. 

Okay. It was awesome! <3<3<3 The plot was absolutely incredible. Plot twists, plot twists everywhere! The character development was awesome and the new history you find out about Frostbloods, Firebloods and Nightbloods was really fascinating and well done. I would say that the sequel lived up to it's predecessor. With one exception...

Sorry about that rant. Moving on...

Much of the criticism that Frostblood received was because it seemed cliché and generic. So if you disliked Frostblood for those reasons, I think you will like Fireblood a lot better. It is very different, unique, and has several plot twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. Personally however, I was perfectly happy with my cliché storyline and super cute couple from the first book. So I was very disappointed in Fireblood (to say the least) with the

The Minax definitely deserves a mention. This creature of darkness definitely has the desired creepy effect in the book. The idea of this dark magic develops a lot from the first novel where the idea is introduced. In Fireblood, we get to see a lot more about the origins of the world's magic from legends and stories being passed down, as well as various books. It was wonderful to understand more about how the magic worked, and the Minax in particular. 

It was also interesting to meet other Firebloods. They are practically non-existent in the first book (for evident reasons), but it was really interesting to get to understand how the society of Firebloods in Sudesia functions, and how they differ from the Frostbloods in Tempesia. It also allowed you to better understand the nature of their conflict and how the events of the first book came about. 

Okay, protagonists. My favourite section!

Ruby is so great in this book! She becomes a really strong, independent female protagonist which most people love. I was happy with her in the first book, but it was really nice to see how she grew after all that she had seen.

Arcus! My most precious cinnamon roll of all cinnamon rolls! He is my most favourite male character out of any book I can recall reading in the history of forever! He is so fierce and determined and wants the best for his people as he looks after the kingdom, but the way he looks after Ruby. ASFDFGSDFHKSJDFL! Sorry, I love him so much and don't know how to put that into words. Arcus forever!

Brother Thistle is not really a main character, or particularly key to the plot in any way, but he's just great. A shout-out to brother Thistle for being reasonable, logical and an all-round great character all the way through the series even when everybody else was running around like headless chickens trying to solve all the world's problems at once.

Look, if you've been reading my spoiler tags, you've probably guessed my feelings about Kai long ago. But, if you want more, click here -> -> ->.

But despite my rants, this was a really, really, great book.

I was terrified at what Elly Blake would do to my poor heart (and my precious characters) and VERY stressed about what would happen, but I can reassure y'all that it was an exceptional book, definitely worth your while. I can not wait until June for the next one. JUNE! I am very grateful that they are not spread further apart. Three books released in two years is awesome. I just don't know how I will wait until then. It feels like so long away...

Can't wait for Nightblood! My cinnamon rolls need a happy ending. Ideally there will be a few chapters at the end after all the conflict is resolved with just Ruby and Arcus being a cute couple without anything getting in the way. I know it's unrealistic, but a girl can always dream!
Profile Image for Chelsies Reading Escape.
631 reviews362 followers
November 14, 2018
I love it when I find YA Scifi/Fantasy books by Canadian authors, especially when the concept is this fun. In this series there's huge divide between the two elemental groups; Frostbloods and Firebloods. After being at war for so long most of them have learned to hate each other. Our main character, a Fireblood named Ruby lives in the Frostblood Kingdom where shes hunted for her gift and unable to make it to the Fireblood Kingdom since the borders have closed. She must keep her gift hidden or risk death.

I love elemental magic and the author did such a great job creating a fascinating and unique mythology that really gives life to this world. Despite having such a developped fantasy world, the writing was easy to get into. The quick pace was exactly what I needed at the time and it wasnt too fast where I felt like other elements were lacking. I enjoyed getting to explore Sudesia and its culture. I also thought the Fireblood master trials were entertaining and intense to read about. I loved the bigger plot with the Minax and the prophecies.

Theres a love triangle in this book, but I personally dont mind them. I know lots of people dont like them, but Ive always believed its possible for some people to love more than one person. Just like Arcus in the first book, it took me a while to warm up to Kai. I dont usually like bossy men but his cocky attitude grew on me. I was still rooting for Arcus and felt so bad for him. I didnt expect the Fireblood Queen to be so ruthless, but I ended up really liking her Consort. Ruby was a captivating protagonist. Shes smart, strong and independent.

I liked that this story had more than one twist. I saw some of the twists coming, especially if there was some forshadowing before hand. I didnt predict them all though and I still enjoyed the outcome when I did. I cant wait to see what will happen in the next book. I think this series would be perfect for fantasy beginners, or if you're like me and want a quick fantasy that doesnt lack any world building or character developpement. Those kinds of books are rare in my opinion, but tend to be the ones I enjoy the most. Not to mention the covers are amazing.

*received for honest review consideration*
Profile Image for Emma.
221 reviews84 followers
March 10, 2018
5 stars holy crap!
I loved this book almost more than the first! The twist was amazing and I just, I can’t wait for the next book. 😍😍
June 28, 2023
—🔥 3 stars 🔥—

“You are a flame, Ruby, and fire can either be free or it will be smothered. The last thing I want..." His voice broke, and the sound was like a kick in my chest. "The last thing I want is to smother you.”

————about the book————

Age: YA (very, very YA)
Genres: Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Teenage Fiction,
Writing: 5/10
Quotes: 5/10
World building: 6/10
Characters: 5/10
Romance: 5/10
My rating: 6/10

trigger warnings: scars, death, violence, OM, arranged/forced marriage, fire and burning, etc.

———my thoughts———

Ruby has defeated the Frostblood king, and her beloved Arcus is returned to the throne.
But Ruby is the only Fireblood in a land of ice.
And the Ice court is becoming unwelcoming.
The dark threat of the Minax still walks the world, and to find the knowledge she needs, Ruby will have to sail to the Firebood nation.

This book is better than the last.
The writing has improved, and most importantly, there are more side characters now!
And the plot, the world has become a little more complex.
The fire kingdom is far more interesting than the frost.
First of all, the people are interesting, the clothes and traditions seem well put together, and it’s simply better.
Furthermore, the challenges/trials are thought out, and actually interesting to read.
And in this book, we’re introduced to my favourite character, Kai.
He’s mostly my favourite because he’s the only one with a interesting personality.
Unfortunately, Ruby suffers from Alina syndrome and will of course choose old faithful over the fun flirty other point in the love triangle.
But not without angst.
And kissing even though you’re promised to someone else HUH RUBY
I’m going to say it, I don’t like Arcus and Ruby’s relationship.
The way they don’t trust each other, and switch from fighting and screaming at each other to all “I’d die for you” doesn’t sit well with me.
It feels like a toxic relationship.
And I know I read dark books. I read about toxic relationships all the time.
But there’s a difference to books that are labelled and described as toxic, and a YA book that younger readers might want to copy with their own relationships.
There’s points where I like them together, but not most of the time.
All in all...I’m still glad I reread them, but I don’t think I ever will again.

————quotes————

“You've melted my icy heart.”

“We both know that the future… We might have choices ahead that we can’t predict now. We have to allow each other to make them without blame.”

“Heat flared, instant and sharp, and it was a relief. I preferred anger to that killing uncertainty.”

———random extra thoughts———

I’m working my way though my RTCs 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

Thanks for reading! ❤️
Profile Image for Stacee.
2,742 reviews712 followers
October 5, 2017
2.5 stars?

I really really reaaaaaallly enjoyed the first book and I was so excited to get to this story. Even though it breaks my heart to rate this so low, I'm wondering if 2.5 stars may be too high.

The plot of this story is filled with clichés. I wanted to be sucked into the story and found myself skimming pages out of boredom and rolling my eyes so hard, I'm surprised they're still in my head.

Plot wise, it is fast paced. Lots of things happen with the trials and there are some double crossings and the ending is intriguing. Sadly, by the time I got to the last chapter, I was just happy for it to be over.

Obviously from high reviews, I'm in the minority. I will be reading the last book as I definitely want to know how it all ends, but I'm not sure I'll be clamoring for it.

**Huge thanks to The Novl for providing the arc free of charge**
Profile Image for Alexa.
Author 5 books3,269 followers
April 1, 2017
A rare instance where the second book in the trilogy doesn't suffer from "second book syndrome"! Many second books feel like bridges to the third and don't stand alone, but Fireblood is an organic development of Ruby's journey and has as many twists/turns/excitements and AMAZING new characters as the first one. At the same time, it does build to what should be an exciting third book/conclusion to the trilogy.

I'll start with Kai, since I know a LOT of people are worried about a love triangle. Double warning, re: spoilers. Behind this tag I'll say what happens: Anyway, I LOVED KAI and he is my new fave.

I LOVED LOVED LOVED the

The ending!

Fireblood was a great read that sets us up for a big, exciting conclusion. And, also, THAT COVER OMG.
Profile Image for Zoe Stewart (Zoe's All Booked).
309 reviews1,456 followers
April 12, 2018
I had read that this one is better than the first, but honestly, I thought it was just as average as Frostblood. I didn't care about the characters or the romance. The plot was interesting, but it wasn't executed that well. I saw the plot twists coming a mile away, and it felt like it had all been done before. A lot of it felt like it was trying to be like the Sarah J Maas series but fell short.

I'm so over love triangles. Actually, that's not entirely true.

As underwhelmed as I was with this one, I have to finish the series. I'm curious how it ends, and I have a thing about finishing series. I came so close to DNFing this book though, and that rarely happens.
Profile Image for Kay.
301 reviews57 followers
March 25, 2018
At the end of Fireblood, Arcus has been restored to the crown, the ice throne has been melted, freeing the kings from the Minax, and Ruby has a place in the Frost Court with the king she loves. But nobody will accept a Fireblood in the land of ice, and the Minax is still out in the world, terrorizing and possessing people, spreading its darkness over the land. It seems there's only one thing for Ruby to do--travel to the fiery land of Sudesia where she'll learn more about the curse and the other Minax...and maybe more about herself than she ever could have imagined or even wanted to know.

Once in Sudesia, Ruby must train with Kai, a Fireblood with secrets of his own, to complete trials and become a Fireblood master. I loved seeing Ruby training here! It was so amazing to see her in her natural element of fire. She was able to really grow into herself and become so much stronger and more powerful than she ever was in the previous book while surrounded by all Frostbloods. While her character annoyed me at time in the previous book, I completely loved her here.

The world building is amazing too! I loved getting to see Sudesia, and I could imagine it as this beautiful paradise and I really want to go now! A lot of history and mythology of this world was explored too, more so than in the last book. The gods that seemed more background characters before really came alive, and I was terrified of them!

This book was a lot more original than the last book as well, which is the reason that I enjoyed it a lot more. While Frostblood was packed full of cliches and overused tropes, this one felt a lot more original, and I was kept on my toes guessing what was going to happen the whole way through.

And the ending! What a plot twist ahh I did NOT see it coming and I was so stressed out and scared for Ruby and all the characters all the way through. I need the next book pronto! While the end of Frostblood left me not really needing to read the next book and pretty indifferent, this one is killing me with anxiety!

I loved all the characters at the Fire Court. Some of them seemed to have questionable actions, and some seemed just as cruel as those of the Frost Court, but I felt like they were all complex and real, and I also felt like they all had deeper motives to be uncovered.

With the entire Fire Court, I loved Kai. Of course I loved Kai. He's so flirty and funny and friendly, and I absolutely loved the banter between him and Ruby. With that being said...there's not much of a love triangle in this book. I feel like there is only a love triangle for the sake of having a love triangle, not because Ruby is actually conflicted between the two love interests of anything. Which was extremely annoying because it totally got my hopes up for the guy who I can tell isn't going to win!!!

4 out of 5 fiery red stars.
Profile Image for Trina (Between Chapters).
876 reviews3,754 followers
June 11, 2019
So much royal intrigue! This was even better than the first book. Def read this series if you enjoy elemental magic, trials, and hidden identities.

Audiobook: Good. Not a stand out in comparison to the hundreds of audiobooks I've listened to, but I found her voice very pleasant to listen to. Would recommend, but not one to go out of your way for this format.

tw: possession, unwanted arrange marriage, being trapped in a room on fire with a bunch of bugs stinging you
Profile Image for Zainab.
384 reviews531 followers
May 23, 2019
Look at that cover! Just look at it. The book was just as good!
Profile Image for Imani.
509 reviews52 followers
October 22, 2017
Actual Rating: 4.5
This was so good. Elly Blake has become one of my fave authors, and that will be cemented permanently if she finishes this series spectacularly.

I initially thought I wouldn't be able to take it- reading this book. Reading the blurb about a new dude named Kai, a Fireblood, irked me to the core. Arcus is the one I love. Fiercely. Idk what it is, but he's been a hero who's nabbed my heart in a way few authors have been able to achieve. So I knew I'd be set up for disappointment considering we'd have a long absence of time in this book without him.

Or so I thought.

Kai still irked me. I was having none of him. He is a funny, almost endearing character who becomes a great friend of Ruby's. I enjoyed that, but I just can't and won't accept him as a love interest. (hint: I don't think the author genuinely does either. Hoorah!) We leave the Frost kingdom of Tempesia around chapter 6, effectively leaving the sweet ice king behind. It was necessary. The Minax was free from the throne and is a terror to the kingdom. The only way to put a stop to it is go the Fire Kingdom, get access to a book that contains the answer on how to do just that, but the only way TO do that is by becoming a Fireblood master and enduring trials, or else the texts are barred from most eyes. No one besides the masters can get them.

Ruby really needed this as further growth. She gets more strength and confidence, works her butt off, curious as well about her own people and where her mother had come from. She's doing this for her beloved Arcus and plans to scram from the place as soon as her goal is accomplished. Kai helps her all through this was a good sense of humor and harmless flirting. Elly Blake I thought, masterfully wrote about Ruby and the fire islands here so it felt like it took almost no time at all to read through it. You were enthralled by it and it wasn't so hard to bear that Arcus was gone.

To Arcus fans, we meet him almost at no time at all it seems. I wasn't sure we'd get to, but we do, and it's surprising and sweet and just awesome. The ending was intense and action packed (not that the rest of the story wasn't- it was too) but I also love how Elly Blake didn't make it easy to guess who the villain was in this second book. You get a hunch about maybe a character or two, but it's not until the end that we really see who it is.

I really believe Elly Blake knows what she's doing, and we're in for something fantastic. This would've been 5 stars if I hadn't been so unhappy with Kai and having to leave our darling Arcus for a bit. lol
 photo julie-andrews-gif-julie-andrews-practically-perfect-in-every-way-mp_zpsqifhsgij.gif

Review Before Reading:

WHO THE HECK IS KAI? GET LOST!

ARCUS IS DA ONE. THE ONLYYY ONEEEE. HOW DARE YOU.
February 5, 2019
He nodded, lips twisting in a slight grimace. “It frustrates Lord Ustathius to no end to find me here instead of in the council chambers. I told him this helps me think.”
“And does it?”
“Yes. It helps me think of you.”


It’s never my intention to belittle a book series on the second book (which I genuinely generally hate), or any of the books, really, if I love it with my whole heart. But, no, this was not a satisfying novel, no matter how much I wish it was so. I can’t love a book solely for the male lead, much as I want to, sometimes.

His lips twitched, the scar pulling taut in that way I found endlessly endearing. “And then there’s the matter of me having to duel with anyone who dared to stare at you. Which would be every man here.”
“They’d only stare because they’re afraid of me. They’re all waiting for me to melt something.”
“Ah, but, Lady Ruby, you already have,” he said, letting go of my waist to spin me in a quick circle. As I came back around, his hand returned to steady me. “You’ve melted my icy heart.”


I loved Arcus. I STILL love Arcus-even after Ruby’s typical heroine bullshit (yes, I cursed, which I have been trying not to do in my reviews anymore) where she feels the need to go against all reason, trust a complete stranger-a BOY stranger-and betray Arcus, in a manner. And yet, he still was an upstanding hero. He supports her-to an extent-because he loves her. And they still have their issues-their differences in powers and class-their worlds are different…yet he trusts her and would do anything for her, even when his whole court objects. To this, I say bravo, and I love him as a hero for it. Because, in the end, he let her do her thing, and that’s a beautiful sentiment.

“Home.” I sat trembling in the chair, his words and tone affecting me more than I wanted, making me want to curl up and weep in his arms. “I don’t even know where that is.“
“You’re my home,” Arcus said softly.


He was jealous, but not in a manner that held Ruby back from her dream. He was possessive, but only when he knew she wanted him-and only him-and he wanted the other male(s) to know it. And, finally, he would follow her anywhere. I just adore him….and I hope the final book does him justice, even as I found myself skimming this whole book because, alas, he was hardly in it (HOORAY FOR THAT SECOND BOOK PREDICTABILITY). Now, onto the copy of Nightblood I won in an Instagram giveaway-I am so excited! :D

***************

Eh. I knew this one wasn't going to be a win because of the second book tropes: Distance from Hero, extra random hero, boring self-discovery blah blah. But she hurt Arcus-which is unforgivable. So, three it is.

Plus, my goodness. I am reading faster than I can review-I'm only, oh, SIX reviews behind?!

Profile Image for Jenny.
314 reviews6 followers
February 22, 2019
Bin direkt wieder gut in die Geschichte reingekommen. Das lag auch daran, dass es zu Beginn auch einige Rückblenden gab, die das Vergangene aus Teil 1 nochmal aufgefrischt haben.
Vieles was im Laufe des 2. Bandes passiert ist, habe ich schon im Laufe des Buches vorausgeahnt, aber das fand ich nicht schlecht.
Ich denke dadurch, dass ich relativ viel lese, fällt es mir sowieso schön öfter leichter vorherzusehen wie sich eine Geschichte entwickelt.
Spannung war dennoch genug da, weil auch immernoch Dinge passiert sind, die ich eben noch nicht so auf dem Schirm hatte.
Bin jetzt gespannt wie es im finalen dritten Teil weitergeht.
Profile Image for Melissa.
595 reviews820 followers
April 1, 2018
How I am going to survive until August to read the third book of this series is a mystery to me. I devoured the second book faster than the first, so I really can’t wait to see what the third will hold for Ruby, Arcus and Kai!
Profile Image for Scrill.
408 reviews204 followers
October 9, 2017
“The flame, eternal, like the spirits of the Fireblood people. Crush us, beat us, cut us down. We will not be extinguished. We live in the embers and rise again to consume our enemies.”

Taking over the country after his brother, Arcus has set out to create peace with Sudesia and have a safe place for firebloods. Unfortunately the court is less inclined to accept the warm blooded people.Meanwhile, the Minax is possessing citizens and wrecking havoc in the city by making them kill other people. When his court is attacked because of his new policies, Ruby takes the opportunity to protect Arcus by separating herself from his court and set out on a mission to infiltrate the Sudesian court to find the Fire Minax so the Frost Minax can be destroyed.

The Story– The things I liked about the first book were completely lost here. There was maybe 5 pages of broody Arcus, and obviously no arena scenes. Ruby did have to go through some challenges in order to accomplish her goal, but it wasn’t nearly as captivating as the gladiator-esque scenes while battling the willpower of the Minax. Fireblood was this drawn out story of Ruby just needing acceptance and the entire time she was like “Arcus forever”, turns around, “mmm Kai, you’re conveniently here and flirting with me.”

Around the 80% mark I realized, that this just isn’t going to wrap up nicely in time. Which caused me to realize, that this just isn’t the end.

“‘We need to be prepared for the worst.’
‘Except the worst keeps getting…worse.'”




The World Building-There was pretty much no additional world building in this book. What little there was was spent on the dynamic of the Fireblood masters and the trials to become a master.

The Characters

Ruby-Despite there obviously being a love triangle, it was really just so lighthearted that it should hardly count. Ruby being the key element in the triangle turned out to be flighty in the fact that she was so easily swept away. I found that she fell more into the convenience rather than actual feeling.

Arcus-True to form, Arcus was broody and romantic at the same time. Unfortunately, he was only in maybe 10% of the book, yet his presence was enough to keep Ruby faithful enough. My dear Arcus, you deserve better.

Kai-I don’t have any feelings for this guy. Despite him being a fireblood I found him to be lukewarm at best. Honestly, if he was going to sweep Ruby off her feet couldn’t he have had a bigger impact of character traits?


Theme song- The Chainsmokers ft. XYLØ - Setting Fires

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