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Sun-Blessed Trilogy #3

Facing the Fire

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“We’re probably going to lose. Why should we even try?”“Trying gives us purpose. Sometimes trying is the whole point.”

The Grays have won. Despite resistance from Tavi Malin and the rest of the Golds, Konner Burrell and his puppet king now rule Cormina. Knowing their lives are in danger, the fugitive Golds have gone into hiding.Tavi bides her time, striving to craft the perfect strategy to defeat the Grays. But when Konner’s people begin killing innocents, Tavi realizes the battle for her nation’s freedom cannot wait. As gray magic infiltrates the land, the Golds plot to lure Konner into one final confrontation. But Tavi isn’t only fighting to liberate Cormina, she’s also struggling with her own future—and how her friend Tullen fits into it. It’s hard enough for Tavi to risk her life. She must also decide if she will risk her heart. Join the Golds for the magical conclusion to the Sun-Blessed Trilogy. Pick up Facing the Fire today!Here’s what early readers of the series are “The magic system is beautiful and completely original!”-Stephanie, Goodreads reviewer“The third book of the Sun-Blessed Trilogy brought closure but also left me wanting more! Readers are in for a real treat as unexpected characters and plot twists are sure to keep them on the edge of their seats!” -Kim Decker“I felt so connected to the characters in the Sun-Blessed Trilogy, I carried them with me throughout the day even after I put the book down!” -Michele Gryniewicz“The Sun-Blessed Trilogy was one of the most exciting, breathtaking, and heart-stopping series I’ve ever read! Readers of all ages will enjoy this wonderful series.” -Madysun WaldropAuthor What makes this new world unique?In the Sun-Blessed Trilogy, the magical system is tied to childbirth. I love the miracle of birth, and tying magic to such an incredible event felt natural and appropriate. Some of the heroes in this series are midwives, who pass magic on to sun-blessed children and later train these same children to use their gifts.

What audiences is the series appropriate for?This trilogy is appropriate for teen and adult audiences. There is no cursing, explicit sexual content, or gory violence. (The series contains childbirth scenes, details of puberty, non-gory murder scenes, and non-explicit references to adultery). I wanted to write a series my own kids could read, and I’m happy to provide an exciting, quality story that a wide variety of ages will enjoy.

Reading the Sun, Facing the Gray, and Facing the Fire should be read in order.Birth of Magic is a prequel novella that may be read before or after the main trilogy.Content This trilogy contains non-explicit descriptions of childbirth and other discussions of women's health issues. It also contains scenes depicting murder and abduction.

464 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2018

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About the author

Carol Beth Anderson

25 books298 followers
Thanks for visiting my Goodreads Author page! I'm Beth, author of fantasy novels, microfiction, and nonfiction for authors.

If you're interested in what books I'm reading, feel free to connect with me on my personal Goodreads too.

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5 stars
37 (66%)
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16 (28%)
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2 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Nicole Dunton.
1,419 reviews36 followers
January 13, 2020
The Grays have taken over. Despite all the efforts from the Golds, they managed to overtake the government and change the system entirely. The Golds are now in danger. They are wanted for many different supposed crimes to the new King and Queen. They must stay hidden and find a successful way to shut they Grays down once and for all.

I really enjoyed this book. In fact, I think it might even be my favorite book of the entire trilogy. It held my attention for the entire book. If I could have gotten away with finishing the book in one sitting, I would have. In a heartbeat. There were some things I feel could have been detailed a little bit differently, but it wasn't really anything major. I'm probably being just nit-picky.

I went back and forth on my thoughts on Tavi. She has great potential. She also has a great deal of responsibility on her plate. She's the ONLY person that's ALL blessed! That's a lot to process. There's nobody who can fully understand exactly what she's going through. It's just that she doesn't really process things properly. She also doesn't communicate with others well. She expects everybody to include her, but she wants to do things alone. Yes, the intentions are honorable, but still. I don't want to butcher the names, but I loved the rest of the Golds too. Especially Tavi's love interest. He's so sarcastic. I'm a sucker for sarcastic characters.

The author narrated this book and the first two books. I stated in previous reviews that she's an incredible narrator. I stand by that. If she narrates any of her other books or for other authors, I will gladly pick up a copy of the audiobook and listen to it. She has great vocals. It's amazing how much of a pull she has. She definitely pulled me right into the story.

While I feel like this trilogy could have used a lot more flair and dramatics, I really enjoyed it. I may not consider this one of my favorite trilogies of all time. This book was the best of the three. It definitely hit a lot of the expectations that I had for this book. I was also impressed that I was never able to predict anything in this entire trilogy. I love that I was completely floored with every turn!
Profile Image for Lana.
2,789 reviews60 followers
December 2, 2021
This is the final episode in this magnificent light against the dark series in which we find Tavi and the rest of the Golds fearing they have lost to the Grays. Konner had placed two puppets on the thrones as the new monarchs of the land and his hunger for power knew no bounds and he was totally without a conscience. However, the Golds could not afford to give up, this was not an option especially as more people were killing other blessed ones to steal their final breath and turn their magic to Gray. Many people were disgruntled with the things happening around them and being enforced on them, taxes were levied, passes were issued and all the blessed were forced to register and wear tag bracelets which put them in so much danger. Many refused and a revolution seemed to be on its way but could the Golds win against the evil of the Grays and could they rally more support to free their land from the evil of the Grays? This final book is a real tense read, I found I could not put the book down but in the end we got the ending we were routing for I am sure. It is a great series full of magic, children born facing the sun who were given gifts by Sava through their midwives breath, and a tyrant who wanted to bring an end to the beautiful powers as they were meant to be used to serve the community. Life in Cormina were people lived in peace and enjoyed democratic leadership was under threat and fear ran rampant but this had to end!
Profile Image for Jacob Klop.
Author 8 books68 followers
December 31, 2020
Facing the Fire, the third and final book in the Sun Blessed Trilogy, brings us to the final confrontation between The Greys and The Golds and we also find out whether Tavi and Tullen become more than just friends.

The things I enjoyed most in this book were the complex situations that arose after the general population discovered how grey magic is acquired. I also liked some of the new powers that we see, such as a fire breather. The author is very clever when it comes to the world building aspects of the novel. For the most part I liked the characters as well, however I did find most of them had become somewhat one dimensional. In the first two novels it seemed like there was a bit of a dispute as to whether grey magic could be of some use and I even wondered whether Tavi would end up being forced in that direction, but that conflict seemed to disappear and kind of went unaddressed.

The other aspect that felt weaker in this novel than in the first two was the lack of initiation from the main characters and The Golds. It felt like they were travelling from place to place for most of the novel and doing very little to try to stop the Greys.

The novel did come to a satisfying conclusion and I very much enjoyed the trilogy over-all, though Facing the Fire was my least favorite of the three books.
Profile Image for Emmy.
909 reviews11 followers
April 17, 2019
•audiobook•

As the trilogy comes to a conclusion, I realize I enjoyed the book but wish there was more. Not more like another book, but more like more details and relationship building (or destroying).

We are introduced to more characters as the Resistance grows. It’s good to see Tavi struggles and makes her own decisions regarding her trust/mistrust of the Greys in her circle. But I feel like it was too much at times.

Tavi certainly should have sought help at the Healing House (Why was the Healing House brought up so many times, yet never really played a viable role - only offscreen with a parent?) as she is still grieving over the death from the first chapters in book 2? It (the death) really started to feel like The Death was it’s own character and it became annoying.

I thought the Colonel and the gardener would have a more central role when we followed them at the beginning... but then they disappeared until the climax. Nice tie - in, but it felt too contrived and instead of a HOORAY, it was like waves lapping at my toes.

I didn’t like that the author kept all of her cards to herself and didn’t trust the readers to draw their conclusions, true or false.

I think readers may enjoy this more if they don’t desire a book where they are included in the ride, but go along for the ride. There’s still more telling than showing and backtracking to explain ... and the caverns - what a total loss of description opportunity.
Profile Image for Liz.
5 reviews
June 3, 2019
Wonderful Story, Satisfying Ending

The Facing the Sun trilogy was an enjoyable, emotional, imminently satisfying read.

The magic system was designed in such a way that made the world itself believable, even as utopian as it was. The conflict within the plot was well thought out, and the conclusion was both satisfying and believable in itself.

I give this third and final book 5 stars in spite of the one thing I had trouble with, which was the main character herself, who, at times, seemed stubborn and prone to fly off the handle, to a degree that was difficult to believe. I didn't let this detract from my rating because it may have just been a personal preference, and she was probably actually meant to have these traits as a character.

If so, it worked! I found myself wanting to slap her once or twice!

Excellent, enjoyable story! I am loathe to say goodbye to this world, and hope more books are out there or will be written set in the magical and picturesque land of the sun-blessed.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
Author 19 books398 followers
January 5, 2020
Couldn't Wait to Listen Every NIght! (Review for the trilogy.)
I received a free copy of this audiobook trilogy in exchange for an honest review. I was a little hesitant at first because authors don't always make the best narrators. But, I'm so glad I got it! The author does a really good job narrating the different voices and emotions. It was a pleasure to listen to. The story itself was entertaining, well-written, and full of wonderfully developed characters. I also like that Tavi is a flawed character. She isn't a supernatural that does everything right all the time. And, the reasons for her actions or inactions are drawn from her experiences and the way they've impacted her. While Tavi is a teen as are some of the other main characters, there are adult characters that also get to share their points of view. So, while it's young adult-friendly, I wouldn't say it's specifically a young adult book. But, that's my point of view. You may think differently. All in all, I really enjoyed the audiobook and recommend it. I'll be seeking out more from this author.
Profile Image for Lisa.
604 reviews66 followers
April 28, 2020
An excellent finish to the Sun-Blessed Trilogy! Here, Tavi, Tullen, and the Golds are at a distinct disadvantage. The Grays have won. Konner Burrell has installed his puppet king and queen, and believes he's on his way to a country run the way he envisions it. But the Golds haven't given up. They are determined to stop him.

I really enjoy Anderson's writing. She builds wonderful worlds and fills them with interesting characters, and while this story took a bit longer to pull me in than the other two in the trilogy, it wasn't long before I was hooked and could hardly put it down.

The Golds work so hard to overthrow the status quo, it's easy to forget sometimes that, for the most part, they're teenagers, barely young adults. Tavi in particular acts her age at times, and her actions toward Tullen and how she feels about him are sometimes terribly frustrating. But they're accurate. I can see teenagers acting just that way.

This wound up the trilogy in a satisfying fashion, and I look forward to more of Anderson's writing.
Profile Image for ErinTurnsPages.
610 reviews6 followers
August 18, 2019
I think the best part of this book is the hardships the Golds face. When they start asking themselves those real questions of, why try? What's the point? Should I just give up? I think if we're honest to ourselves we will find that that is how the majority of "rebels" at the very least, think and feel at some point in their lives. I think we forget that, that these "rebels" are fighting for a cause that they truly believe in, such as both the Golds' and the Grey's do. The ending was both fulfilling and a bit of a letdown. I don't know what I was expecting, but it seemed to end just a touch flat. Though every bit of the remaining questions were left filled in a very satisfying manner.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Also, I listened to the audiobook.
Profile Image for Donamarie Fournier.
189 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2019
A wonderful ending to a fantastic series. Against all odds and despite all doubts this tiny group of mostly teens is out to stop the evil forces behind the current monarchy. Wanted, on the run, hiding wherever they can find refuge this small group has to find the courage, strength, and allies to help them with their task.

This series is slow to read at times but kept me going with the attachment to the characters. Tavi and Tully are very believable characters that struggle with what their relationship should or can be. Konner is the evil scheming mastermind behind his puppet King and Queen.

This book brought everything to an ending that was not scripted and did not turn out like expected. Even though not planned the outcome is one to cheer for.
68 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2019
Tavi and her fellow Golds are still hard at work, trying to oust the Grays, magic-wielders who have overcome the resistance in their magic by stealing the last breath of a gifted person as they’ve killed him or her.

It is no small thing to take a band of young adults, just barely out of their childhood, up against the power of the state, especially when it is being run by a totally unscrupulous chief minister, but that is the task they have set themselves. They will come back with their shields or on them, so to speak.

How do they fare on this do-or-die journey? Oh, come on, you can’t expect me to give it all away, can you? It’s a good read and high adventure as the plot proceeds.
Profile Image for Kenzie Millar.
18 reviews
January 31, 2022
I often find the 3rd book can be the hardest. It's either too action packed, or too many random deaths just to try and amp up the emotional impact. This had neither issue. There's action and emotion a-plenty, but still balanced with great character development. I loved that since the series took us over years, I really saw the characters actually change and grow up (even the side characters). Yes they're still making teenage mistakes, they're still teens, but they're learning from the hard experiences they're going through. That's really tough to balance.

Really enjoyable series, and definitely makes me want to read more of Anderson's work!
Profile Image for Rosemary Hughes.
4,192 reviews23 followers
July 14, 2025
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title within the series set box. (Audible)


This saga draws to a close. How teenagers, although gifted with unique magical abilities, they are still young people with very limited world experience. The master manipulater they are potted against is more than twice their age. His early life experience alone gives him a vast understanding of the working of the seedier side of the world.
Sure their are a group together united in their cause, but to bring down the king as well as the man behind the throne. That is an extremely tall order.
Profile Image for drama_mama73.
89 reviews6 followers
February 1, 2019
Facing the Fire is the 3rd book in the Sun Blessed trilogy. This book brings the whole story to closure. At times the story seems too long and slow but the story itself is wonderful. There is magic and action and danger and love- all the things a good story should have. I love that not just one person is the savior, but it really is a team effort (even though the whole story is based on one person being the one). The story is appropriate for 10 yrs and older but young kids might get bored at times. This is a magical unique tale that I highly recommend!
Profile Image for Cat Bowser.
Author 6 books43 followers
July 3, 2021
I’m starting to think Carol is incapable of ending a series badly. Nailing the ending is one of the hardest aspects of a series and she handles it perfectly.

The ending is hard fought. It doesn’t come easy. There are hard decisions to be made and sometimes I didn’t think I’d have been able to cope right alongside our protagonists.

You believe the ending. It’s earned. It’s realistic yet fits perfectly into the world it takes place in. I hood she gives us more trips to this world because it’s been a treat.
Profile Image for Kim.
6 reviews2 followers
November 16, 2018
I loved this book. It finished the Sun-Blessed Trilogy beautifully. I loved the big themes, the nuanced plot, the character development (I love these people), and I was left wanting more. Even though I got closure...I didn't want to say goodbye to the characters. To me, this is a true sign of success. I don't want to ruin any part of the story line, but if you love character development and unlikely friendships and alliances, this trilogy is for you!
Profile Image for Alain Davis.
30 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2019
Bravo!! The third book in the Sun-Blessed Trilogy was everything I hoped it would be. Tavi and The Golds take on The Grays. There are big battles, small battles. Tavi and her friends learn new and different ways to use their magic. They suffer triumphs and losses. They grow, they grieve. The run of emotions spans the spectrum in the most delightful way. I highly recommend this book - and this series. Appropriate for all ages!!
Profile Image for Erin Mendoza.
1,630 reviews24 followers
September 23, 2018
This was a satisfying end to the Sun Blessed Trilogy.
Book 2 was probably my favorite of the series. Book 3 felt a little slow at times, but it was all purposeful and probably necessary for the story ARC.
There was great world building and character development throughout the series. I liked this take on magic a lot.
I'd definitely recommend!
Profile Image for Eileen Hammond.
Author 10 books28 followers
July 31, 2019
Fabulous ending to a phenomenal series. The writing is terrific and instantly transports you into the book. You root for Tavi and her band as they face incredible odds. Good vs. Evil tale where the boundaries are murky to start and become more and more clear as the series progresses. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Sarah Green-Hart.
Author 3 books52 followers
February 26, 2019
What a finish!

I know I should try to be articulate and express what I liked or didn't like, but... really... I just think the thing to say is: "what a finish!"

I'm so glad I read these books. I loved the characters, and I'd love to visit their world for just a day... Well done. :o)

164 reviews
February 10, 2021
Satisfying ending

Oh what a great ending to this series. Good character development and plot twists abound, with some romance thrown in for good measure, but not too much. Great final showdown and aftermath.
Profile Image for Sara Lawson.
654 reviews58 followers
May 15, 2020
After the build-up in book two and the Golds losing the battle (although you could barely call it a fight), Tavi is more cautious than ever. This time she and her friends are "hiding out" in Tullen's hometown, the Meadow. But after the Meadow is attacked, they all realize that waiting until they're ready only gives the Grays time to grow in power and strength and numbers, so they prepare to fight. This book is more interesting than the previous two as it takes us through many new locations, from the Meadow, to a newly formed Dukedom, to a monastery, to Savela, and back to all of those places again. It also looks at different philosophies of resistance, from pacifism to infiltration to open rebellion. I appreciated that there was a place for all of those viewpoints and that some even changed their stance out of necessity for the current situation while others never did. There was also a lot more strategy in this book than the previous ones. Finally, they have stopped underestimating Konnor. They also have some new allies in several of the Grays. And once again, there were several points in the story where it seemed that all hope was lost, only for it to be regained because of a chance encounter or a new awareness that things were not all as they seemed. Overall, this was a fitting ending and a beginning of a new world of possibility.

I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author who also narrated it beautifully and have reviewed it willingly.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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