What do you think?
Rate this book
Firebrand #4
Scorched Heart
My parents were brutally murdered when I was five years old. Their killer has spent the last twenty five years in prison for his terrible crimes - but I still have unanswered questions. After all, I am the phoenix. When I die, I am reborn in fire and brimstone. It happens again and again and again. I have no idea where my strange ability came from and nobody to ask.
Now another shocking murder has been committed in the small village where my parents died and there is evidence which suggests the killer is supernatural. The crime gives me the perfect reason to return to my childhood home. I can offer my expertise as a Supe Squad detective - and seek the truth behind what I really am.
The trouble is that I might not like what I find.
Scorched Heart is the fourth book in the action-packed urban fantasy Firebrand series. Events occur at the same time as The Noose Of A New Moon in the Wolfbrand series, although the books do not have to be read together to be enjoyed.
Now another shocking murder has been committed in the small village where my parents died and there is evidence which suggests the killer is supernatural. The crime gives me the perfect reason to return to my childhood home. I can offer my expertise as a Supe Squad detective - and seek the truth behind what I really am.
The trouble is that I might not like what I find.
Scorched Heart is the fourth book in the action-packed urban fantasy Firebrand series. Events occur at the same time as The Noose Of A New Moon in the Wolfbrand series, although the books do not have to be read together to be enjoyed.
278 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2017
497 people are currently reading
1899 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
August 29, 2025
✅ Characters
✅ Pace
✅ Paranormal creatures
✅ New setting
✅🆗 Romance (sweet, but we didn’t see much of it)
✅🆗 Plot
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: mentions of murders
3.5 stars
In this fourth book, we finally learn more about Emma’s parents and their mysterious and brutal death. Emma was already searching for answers in the third book because she wanted to understand why she was a phoenix, but in this fourth installment, she is sent to her natal little town to investigate a murder that might have been committed by a supe. When she starts helping the local police, however, she quickly realizes that this death is connected to her parents’ murder, and worse, the killer is not done yet.
The plot was good, and the intrigue was complex enough for us not to guess the identity of the killer or killers right away, but for some reason, I was less involved in this book than I was in the previous ones. I liked that Emma was sent to another town, it allowed the author to develop a new set of secondary characters, and to show us a new setting with a “little town” vibe instead of bustling London city, but I still wasn’t hooked as much as I was with the other books.
I was really happy in the third book when the romance between Emma and Lukas finally moved forward (although I also liked that they took their time and it was not an insta-love), but I was hoping to see more of it in this book. Now that they are officially together, I wanted more than just a few mentions of how they spent their nights together. Sure, we got to see a cute side of them, and they had cute attention toward each other, and I know it’s still early in their relationship, but I still wanted to feel more sparks. I wanted the excitement of a new relationship, the giddiness that comes when you see that special person and are finally “allowed” to show your affection. I didn’t want them to become silly love-blind teenagers, and I like that the author didn’t go down that route, but I was still expecting and hoping to see a bigger difference in their dynamic.
While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the previous books, I still had a good time reading it. It is still an entertaining light, fast-paced paranormal investigation novel, and I will continue with this series for sure. I might read the first book of Deverau Webb’s spinoff first though as I know it happens at the same time as the events of this book, but I am reading book 5 right after for sure.
1. Brimstone Bound ⭐⭐⭐.5
2. Infernal Enchantment ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Midnight Smoke ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Pace
✅ Paranormal creatures
✅ New setting
✅🆗 Romance (sweet, but we didn’t see much of it)
✅🆗 Plot
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: mentions of murders
3.5 stars
In this fourth book, we finally learn more about Emma’s parents and their mysterious and brutal death. Emma was already searching for answers in the third book because she wanted to understand why she was a phoenix, but in this fourth installment, she is sent to her natal little town to investigate a murder that might have been committed by a supe. When she starts helping the local police, however, she quickly realizes that this death is connected to her parents’ murder, and worse, the killer is not done yet.
‘I really am sorry, you know,’ I told him. ‘About stabbing you in the heart.’
Lukas’s phone started ringing again. Again he declined the call. ‘You stabbed me in the heart long before you shot me with a silver arrow,’ he told me with a chuckle.
The plot was good, and the intrigue was complex enough for us not to guess the identity of the killer or killers right away, but for some reason, I was less involved in this book than I was in the previous ones. I liked that Emma was sent to another town, it allowed the author to develop a new set of secondary characters, and to show us a new setting with a “little town” vibe instead of bustling London city, but I still wasn’t hooked as much as I was with the other books.
‘Here.’
I blinked. ‘What’s this?’
‘Sandwich. Flask of coffee. A few snacks.’
‘I’m going to Kent, not Australia.’ Lukas gave me a long look.
‘I want to look after you. If the only way you’ll let me do that is by making sure you have lunch, that’s the way it’ll be.’
‘Thank you,’ I whispered. It might only be a packed lunch but the gesture spoke volumes.
I was really happy in the third book when the romance between Emma and Lukas finally moved forward (although I also liked that they took their time and it was not an insta-love), but I was hoping to see more of it in this book. Now that they are officially together, I wanted more than just a few mentions of how they spent their nights together. Sure, we got to see a cute side of them, and they had cute attention toward each other, and I know it’s still early in their relationship, but I still wanted to feel more sparks. I wanted the excitement of a new relationship, the giddiness that comes when you see that special person and are finally “allowed” to show your affection. I didn’t want them to become silly love-blind teenagers, and I like that the author didn’t go down that route, but I was still expecting and hoping to see a bigger difference in their dynamic.
While I didn’t enjoy this one as much as the previous books, I still had a good time reading it. It is still an entertaining light, fast-paced paranormal investigation novel, and I will continue with this series for sure. I might read the first book of Deverau Webb’s spinoff first though as I know it happens at the same time as the events of this book, but I am reading book 5 right after for sure.
1. Brimstone Bound ⭐⭐⭐.5
2. Infernal Enchantment ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Midnight Smoke ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
May 26, 2021
This is fourth in a UF fantasy that builds over the series. I definitely recommend reading in order, not least because this one reveals some core background mysteries that have persisted from the first.
That's right, we get answers to Emma's history and what happened to her parents. All the answers, it seems, and a double-edged mystery and a twist I didn't see coming until just before it hit. Yes, I found all of this delightful. So delightful that I stayed up way too late before a work day. One day I'll learn discipline. And read way fewer books. Wait. No I won't!
So yeah, by this time you know what you're getting and this one delivers. Also, Lukas is still lovely and I just love their relationship as it matures. I'll just say it's all five stars and deserves them all.
A note about Chaste: While Lukas and Emma are together, and sexually so as well, all the details are off-page. There is a conversation or two that include intimate things, but I didn't find those explicit. So I found it chaste, but stricter evaluations could easily differ.
That's right, we get answers to Emma's history and what happened to her parents. All the answers, it seems, and a double-edged mystery and a twist I didn't see coming until just before it hit. Yes, I found all of this delightful. So delightful that I stayed up way too late before a work day. One day I'll learn discipline. And read way fewer books. Wait. No I won't!
So yeah, by this time you know what you're getting and this one delivers. Also, Lukas is still lovely and I just love their relationship as it matures. I'll just say it's all five stars and deserves them all.
A note about Chaste: While Lukas and Emma are together, and sexually so as well, all the details are off-page. There is a conversation or two that include intimate things, but I didn't find those explicit. So I found it chaste, but stricter evaluations could easily differ.
May 10, 2021
4.5 stars.
I’ve been quite lucky with my reading lately 😍.
Well that’s probably because I was very picky! 😂
With this book too.
It’s one of my favorite paranormal series, however with this one, I feel like reading a mystery/thriller and who’s done it kind of book than a total paranormal! LOL
Oh, I’m not complaining! 😘
But now I have to wait months for the next one! Ugh 😑😳😂.
If you love PNR series, read this series.
A good storyline with fantastic heroine and hero.
I love it!
❤️❤️❤️
I’ve been quite lucky with my reading lately 😍.
Well that’s probably because I was very picky! 😂
With this book too.
It’s one of my favorite paranormal series, however with this one, I feel like reading a mystery/thriller and who’s done it kind of book than a total paranormal! LOL
Oh, I’m not complaining! 😘
But now I have to wait months for the next one! Ugh 😑😳😂.
If you love PNR series, read this series.
A good storyline with fantastic heroine and hero.
I love it!
❤️❤️❤️
May 26, 2021
I NEEEED this book! Is it May yet? So excited!
July 20, 2024
Definitely Worth the read.
If you haven't read the first three books then don't read this review please.
Were you hoping that this book was going to unveil some of Emma's passed.
Then buckle up and go for a ride because this book is going to reveille all and then some.
Still enjoying the series alot at this point, and I am hoping that Emma and the Vampire Lord either involve or break up at this point. Seriously need some attention their one way or the other.
So still interested and moving on to the next book.
Happy Reading 📙📕📚📗📒📘📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📚📓📒📘📓📚📙📗📚📙📕📒📘📔📚📙📕📓📗📘📔📒📖
If you haven't read the first three books then don't read this review please.
Were you hoping that this book was going to unveil some of Emma's passed.
Then buckle up and go for a ride because this book is going to reveille all and then some.
Still enjoying the series alot at this point, and I am hoping that Emma and the Vampire Lord either involve or break up at this point. Seriously need some attention their one way or the other.
So still interested and moving on to the next book.
Happy Reading 📙📕📚📗📒📘📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📚📓📒📘📓📚📙📗📚📙📕📒📘📔📚📙📕📓📗📘📔📒📖
December 17, 2024
2,5 Sterne
Vor 2 Jahren fand ich die Reihe noch sehr vielversprechend.
Entweder ist dieser Band tatsächlich schwach, konstruiert und in den inneren Monologen etwas lächerlich bzw. insgesamt ziemlich flach, oder mein Empfinden dieser Reihe gegenüber hat sich dramatisch gewandelt und die anderen Bände sind genauso Banane. Ich hab’s dann nur nicht gerallt. Wer weiß.
Ich hör es nach wie vor gerne. Ist eine nette urban Fantasy Unterhaltung, die sich rasant flott weghören lässt.
Gegen die Welt von Throne of Glass, das meine aktuelle Marke für gelungene junge Fantasy ist, stinkt das jedenfalls meilenweit ab.
Vor 2 Jahren fand ich die Reihe noch sehr vielversprechend.
Entweder ist dieser Band tatsächlich schwach, konstruiert und in den inneren Monologen etwas lächerlich bzw. insgesamt ziemlich flach, oder mein Empfinden dieser Reihe gegenüber hat sich dramatisch gewandelt und die anderen Bände sind genauso Banane. Ich hab’s dann nur nicht gerallt. Wer weiß.
Ich hör es nach wie vor gerne. Ist eine nette urban Fantasy Unterhaltung, die sich rasant flott weghören lässt.
Gegen die Welt von Throne of Glass, das meine aktuelle Marke für gelungene junge Fantasy ist, stinkt das jedenfalls meilenweit ab.
July 2, 2023
Enthält Spoiler zu den Vorgängern!
Im vierten Band der Firebrand-Reihe besucht Emma Bellamy eine abgelegene englische Kleinstadt: Es ist die Stadt, in der sie als Kleinkind gelebt hat und wo ihre Eltern ermordet wurden. Jetzt gab es einen neuen Mord und es sieht so aus, als wäre der Täter ein Übernatürlicher - eine Gelegenheit für Emma, sich sowohl den Fall anzusehen, als auch mehr über ihreVergangenheit herauszufinden.
In der Stadt ist Emmas Fall schon sehr bekannt, denn so viele Morde gibt es dort auch nicht. Sie ist eine Sensation und eine Geschichte, die man Touristen erzählt, und auf die viele neugierig sind, aber wegen der grausamen Tode gilt sie auch als Pechvogel. So oder so ist es für sie gar nicht so leicht, mehr über die Vergangenheit und ihr übernatürliches Wesen herauszufinden, aber sie merkt schon bald, dass es noch viel komplizierter ist, als sie bisher angenommen hat.
Es gibt auf jeden Fall wieder spannende Ermittlungen und durch Emmas persönliche Verbindungen wird es auch ziemlich emotional. Sie muss einen alten und neue Mordfälle lösen und wird dabei mit ihrem Kindheitstrauma konfrontiert, während schon wieder jemand versucht, sie umzubringen. Die Fantasywelt bietet immer wieder neue magische Möglichkeiten und bleibt abwechslungsreich und unvorhersehbar, aber ich finde es etwas wenig schade, dass es dadurch etwas willkürlich wirkt. Aber so merkt Emma, dass sie noch viel über die Welt zu lernen hat und ihre Erfahrung in der Kleinstadt machen sie darauf aufmerksam, dass es noch viel Aufklärungsbedarf gibt, was Übernatürliche betrifft.
Fazit
Wie immer: Wer andere Bücher der Autorin mag, wird auch hier wieder Spaß haben, denn die Bücher vereinen Spannung, Magie und Humor auf eine Weise, die immer wieder gelingt.
Im vierten Band der Firebrand-Reihe besucht Emma Bellamy eine abgelegene englische Kleinstadt: Es ist die Stadt, in der sie als Kleinkind gelebt hat und wo ihre Eltern ermordet wurden. Jetzt gab es einen neuen Mord und es sieht so aus, als wäre der Täter ein Übernatürlicher - eine Gelegenheit für Emma, sich sowohl den Fall anzusehen, als auch mehr über ihreVergangenheit herauszufinden.
In der Stadt ist Emmas Fall schon sehr bekannt, denn so viele Morde gibt es dort auch nicht. Sie ist eine Sensation und eine Geschichte, die man Touristen erzählt, und auf die viele neugierig sind, aber wegen der grausamen Tode gilt sie auch als Pechvogel. So oder so ist es für sie gar nicht so leicht, mehr über die Vergangenheit und ihr übernatürliches Wesen herauszufinden, aber sie merkt schon bald, dass es noch viel komplizierter ist, als sie bisher angenommen hat.
Es gibt auf jeden Fall wieder spannende Ermittlungen und durch Emmas persönliche Verbindungen wird es auch ziemlich emotional. Sie muss einen alten und neue Mordfälle lösen und wird dabei mit ihrem Kindheitstrauma konfrontiert, während schon wieder jemand versucht, sie umzubringen. Die Fantasywelt bietet immer wieder neue magische Möglichkeiten und bleibt abwechslungsreich und unvorhersehbar, aber ich finde es etwas wenig schade, dass es dadurch etwas willkürlich wirkt. Aber so merkt Emma, dass sie noch viel über die Welt zu lernen hat und ihre Erfahrung in der Kleinstadt machen sie darauf aufmerksam, dass es noch viel Aufklärungsbedarf gibt, was Übernatürliche betrifft.
Fazit
Wie immer: Wer andere Bücher der Autorin mag, wird auch hier wieder Spaß haben, denn die Bücher vereinen Spannung, Magie und Humor auf eine Weise, die immer wieder gelingt.
May 18, 2021
In Scorched Heart, Emma returns to the town of her birth, the place her parents were murdered when she was just five years old.
They assigned a new boss to the Supernatural Squad and her liaison at the police department and direct superior suggests (demands) Emma take two weeks off while her new boss adjusts. She can go interview the man who was convicted of killing her parents and help her hometown police department in an unofficial capacity with a murder investigation that may involve a supernatural.
Things are not as they seem, and Emma soon finds herself in trouble and investigating murders that may be related to her parents’ death. This was a great installment and Harper delivered answers surrounding not only her parents’ death but about her supernatural powers.
The murders appear to have been committed by a sup, but things aren’t adding up and Emma has her handsful connecting the dots and getting the detective in charge to see the connections. Harper builds up the suspense and threw in plenty of suspects, twists and surprises. A certain smexy vampire shows up and offers his aid, leading to some heated moments. The one-on-one relationship moments helped balance out the suspense.
Phone calls back to the squad give us hints of the changes the new boss is making… ugh, but we’ll deal with that in the next audio.
Ruth Urquhart narrates the series her voices for Emma and other enhance the overall series. From her pacing to the way she captures the snark, banter, emotions and suspense, she makes listening is a pleasure. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
They assigned a new boss to the Supernatural Squad and her liaison at the police department and direct superior suggests (demands) Emma take two weeks off while her new boss adjusts. She can go interview the man who was convicted of killing her parents and help her hometown police department in an unofficial capacity with a murder investigation that may involve a supernatural.
Things are not as they seem, and Emma soon finds herself in trouble and investigating murders that may be related to her parents’ death. This was a great installment and Harper delivered answers surrounding not only her parents’ death but about her supernatural powers.
The murders appear to have been committed by a sup, but things aren’t adding up and Emma has her handsful connecting the dots and getting the detective in charge to see the connections. Harper builds up the suspense and threw in plenty of suspects, twists and surprises. A certain smexy vampire shows up and offers his aid, leading to some heated moments. The one-on-one relationship moments helped balance out the suspense.
Phone calls back to the squad give us hints of the changes the new boss is making… ugh, but we’ll deal with that in the next audio.
Ruth Urquhart narrates the series her voices for Emma and other enhance the overall series. From her pacing to the way she captures the snark, banter, emotions and suspense, she makes listening is a pleasure. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
July 29, 2021
I've had a great time reading the four books in the Firebrand series, 'Brimstone Bound', 'Infernal Enchantment', 'Midnight Smoke' and 'Scorched Heart' in a week. It was a fun ride and I'm glad to say it's not over (although I'll probably have to wait until 2022 for the next one).
'Scorched Heart' was probably the best book yet. I liked that Helen Harper moved the action outside of London and away from Supernatural politics and instead focussed on Emma's backstory.
Emma is sent by her Detective Inspector boss on an unofficial mission to the village where she spent her early years and where, when she was five, her parents were murdered and she was found crying in their blood.
The set-up for the mission was clever. Emma's boss wants to find out more about the origins of Emma's unique ability to come back to life twelve hours after she dies so she offers her informal help in an investigation in the same village into a murder in which a Supernatural may have been involved. She also wants Emma out of the way while a DS, who outranks her, is installed as the lead detective of the Supernatural Division that Emma has been the only detective in since her arrival.
So Emma is investigating her parents' murder and supporting another murder investigation in a tiny village that she barely remembers but where everyone remembers her. Both investigations bring her into contact with colourful characters and give her puzzles to solve. They may or may not be related to one another but it soon becomes clear that someone wants Emma dead, again.
I enjoyed the murder mysteries and learning about Emma's past. I didn't guess the outcome, although it made sense in a slaps-forehead-for-having-missed-it way that added to my enjoyment. It was also fun to see the tall dark and undead lord of all the vampires playing a supporting, almost eye-candy, role and being treated as a very unwelcome visitor by most of the village.
This series is really in its stride now. I hope it runs for several more books. I'll certainly be reading the next one.
Read
June 4, 2022I am so into this series now!!! Glad it took off so now it matches the awesomeness of the narrator.
May 6, 2021
This is the best book in this series so far - I absolutely loved it!
DC Emma Bellamy, phoenix and girlfriend of Lord Lukas Horvath, Lord of the Vampires is the only detective in the Supernatural squad of London and so far has been doing a great job learning about the supes at the same time as learning about her own abilities and how to become a better detective.
However, when a murder with a possible supe perpetrator occurs, her boss sends her on a vacation to this small town to offer her help and expertise if needed. Unfortunately, this little town in the Kent countryside happens to be the same place where Emma once lived, where her parents were both brutally murdered leaving her an orphan. As much as it pains her to go back there, she heads there in case she can find any answers to what happened to her family 25 years ago...
The supe in question was a great one - not one I had read about before and definitely not one you would ever expect either. Having read loads of shifter books, I really did expect it to be one I did know about, but this new-to-me creature was brilliant!
And even after you thought it was all over, it was far from over and I loved this extra bit to the plot! I won't say much more otherwise it will give too much away, but this book is definitely worth a read and although it can be read as a stand alone, the whole series is great and highly recommended, so why not read them all!
Thank you to Helen for my ARC copy of this book - as always a truly fantastic read!
DC Emma Bellamy, phoenix and girlfriend of Lord Lukas Horvath, Lord of the Vampires is the only detective in the Supernatural squad of London and so far has been doing a great job learning about the supes at the same time as learning about her own abilities and how to become a better detective.
However, when a murder with a possible supe perpetrator occurs, her boss sends her on a vacation to this small town to offer her help and expertise if needed. Unfortunately, this little town in the Kent countryside happens to be the same place where Emma once lived, where her parents were both brutally murdered leaving her an orphan. As much as it pains her to go back there, she heads there in case she can find any answers to what happened to her family 25 years ago...
The supe in question was a great one - not one I had read about before and definitely not one you would ever expect either. Having read loads of shifter books, I really did expect it to be one I did know about, but this new-to-me creature was brilliant!
And even after you thought it was all over, it was far from over and I loved this extra bit to the plot! I won't say much more otherwise it will give too much away, but this book is definitely worth a read and although it can be read as a stand alone, the whole series is great and highly recommended, so why not read them all!
Thank you to Helen for my ARC copy of this book - as always a truly fantastic read!
July 16, 2023
Meinung:
Vielen Dank an den Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
Meinen kalt gewordenen Kaffee in der Hand, saß ich hinter dem Steuer von Tallulah und sah aus dem Fenster.
Das Cover sieht wieder ähnlich wie die anderen der Reihe aus, so erkennt man gleich, dass sie zusammen gehören. Hier finde ich die Farbe besonders schön und natürlich hat man auch wieder London darauf.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist wie immer sehr einfach und flüssig zu lesen. Dazu hat sie diesen leicht humorvollen Schreibstil, der das Buch etwas auflockert. Geschrieben ist es wieder aus Sicht von Emma.
Der Band schließt recht bald an die Ereignisse aus Band drei an. Dieses Mal zieht es Emma zurück in ihre Heimat, in der es einen Mord gab und bei dem sie eine beratende Unterstützung sein kann. Da kommen dann noch alte Gefühle hoch, denn ihre Eltern wurden eben dort ermordet und vielleicht hängen die beiden Morde auch zusammen.
Der Einstieg in das Buch ist mir wieder sehr leicht gefallen und dann bin ich auch nur schon so durch die Seiten geflogen. Ich will schon seit Band zwei wissen, wieso Emma nicht sterben kann und da sie nun zurück in ihre Heimatstadt geht wollte ich unbedingt wissen, ob sie da etwas herausfindet. Dann wurde es so spannend, dass ich das Buch an einem Tag durch hatte. Tja.
Emma ist wie immer ein toller Charakter und sie bleibt stark, auch wenn alles etwas viel ist. So dachte ich, dass sie emotional wird, wenn sie den Mörder ihrer Eltern im Gefängnis besucht, oder zu ihrem alten Haus kommt, aber sie ist durch und durch professionell und lässt sich dadurch nicht wirklich aus der Ruhe bringen. Man merkt zwar, dass sie aufgewühlt ist, aber nach außen hin zeigt sie das nicht wirklich.
Ansonsten haben wir noch einen Haufen Nebencharaktere, aber wie immer ist auch Lukas, der Lord der Vampire dabei. Er hat hier wirklich eher eine Nebenrolle und war dadurch nicht so präsent, aber ich find ihn süß, wie er Emma über alles andere stellt und immer auf sie aufpasst. Ansonsten sind noch viele Polizisten involviert und natürlich die ganzen Dorfbewohner.
Wie immer gibt es einen Fall, in dem Emma ermittelt und hier ist es der Mord an einem Dorfbewohner. Emma ist als beratende Instanz dabei, da alles auf einen Übernatürlichen als Täter hindeutet. Dieses Mal war die Auflösung irgendwie einfach und irgendwie auch nicht. Ich hatte schnell einen Verdächtigen, aber das war dann nur die halbe Wahrheit. Ich habe mit trotzdem gefreut, dass ich wenigstens mit irgendwas recht hatte, denn meist bin ich eine totale Niete bei sowas. Man muss aber sagen, dass die Hinweise eindeutig waren. Auf die andere hälfte wäre ich nie gekommen. Zwar hatte ich vermutungen und habe gerätselt, ob der Mord an Emmas Eltern und der aktuelle Mord zusammen hängen, aber ich war am Ende wieder baff und fand den Einfallsreichtum der Autorin bewundernswert.
Aber nicht nur darum geht es in dem Buch, denn Emma will immer noch herausfinden, wieso sie nicht sterben kann und da bietet es sich an, dass sie in ihrer alten Heimat ist. Als Leser hofft man natürlich, dass man endlich Antworten bekommt und allein schon deswegen wollte ich unbedingt weiter lesen. Ich möchte aber nicht verraten, ob man in diesem Band schon Antworten bekommt oder nicht.
Lukas kommt wie gesagt auch vor, allerdings nicht so viel und irgendwie wirkte er auch schwächer auf mich, als in den anderen Bänden. Für mich fehlte seine bedrohliche Aura und sein Auftreten. Das fand ich Beswick, den mutmaßlichen Mörder von Emmas Eltern, schon viel interessanter, obwohl er nur kurz am Beginn und dann am Ende vorkam. Emma hat ihn besucht und allein schon da konnte man viel über seinen Charakter sagen. Ich hätte gerne noch mehr von ihm gelesen.
Die Auflösung von dem Fall und der Höhepunkt des Buches kamen wie immer am Schluss und es war wirklich so spannend, dass ich es einfach beenden musste, obwohl meine Augen schon weh taten. Es passiert hier nochmal so viel und man lernt noch mehr über die Übernatürlichen und natürlich über Emmas Vergangenheit und ihre Eltern. Bis dahin war das Buch gut, aber dann das letzte Drittel war gefüllt mit Spannung und ich habe alles daran geliebt. Man bekommt auch schon einen Vorgeschmack auf den nächsten Band, aber jetzt heißt es wieder warten.
Fazit:
Wie immer ist es ein tolles und spannendes Buch, vor allem da Emma in ihrer Heimat ermittelt und sie dort auch fast alle kennen. Endlich erfährt man mehr über ihre Eltern, den Mord und allgemein über Emma. Einige Fragen, die von den vorherigen Teilen noch offen waren wurden beantwortet und jetzt kann ich mich auf Band fünf freuen. Wie immer eine ganz große Empfehlung!
Vielen Dank an den Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!
Meinen kalt gewordenen Kaffee in der Hand, saß ich hinter dem Steuer von Tallulah und sah aus dem Fenster.
Das Cover sieht wieder ähnlich wie die anderen der Reihe aus, so erkennt man gleich, dass sie zusammen gehören. Hier finde ich die Farbe besonders schön und natürlich hat man auch wieder London darauf.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist wie immer sehr einfach und flüssig zu lesen. Dazu hat sie diesen leicht humorvollen Schreibstil, der das Buch etwas auflockert. Geschrieben ist es wieder aus Sicht von Emma.
Der Band schließt recht bald an die Ereignisse aus Band drei an. Dieses Mal zieht es Emma zurück in ihre Heimat, in der es einen Mord gab und bei dem sie eine beratende Unterstützung sein kann. Da kommen dann noch alte Gefühle hoch, denn ihre Eltern wurden eben dort ermordet und vielleicht hängen die beiden Morde auch zusammen.
Der Einstieg in das Buch ist mir wieder sehr leicht gefallen und dann bin ich auch nur schon so durch die Seiten geflogen. Ich will schon seit Band zwei wissen, wieso Emma nicht sterben kann und da sie nun zurück in ihre Heimatstadt geht wollte ich unbedingt wissen, ob sie da etwas herausfindet. Dann wurde es so spannend, dass ich das Buch an einem Tag durch hatte. Tja.
Emma ist wie immer ein toller Charakter und sie bleibt stark, auch wenn alles etwas viel ist. So dachte ich, dass sie emotional wird, wenn sie den Mörder ihrer Eltern im Gefängnis besucht, oder zu ihrem alten Haus kommt, aber sie ist durch und durch professionell und lässt sich dadurch nicht wirklich aus der Ruhe bringen. Man merkt zwar, dass sie aufgewühlt ist, aber nach außen hin zeigt sie das nicht wirklich.
Ansonsten haben wir noch einen Haufen Nebencharaktere, aber wie immer ist auch Lukas, der Lord der Vampire dabei. Er hat hier wirklich eher eine Nebenrolle und war dadurch nicht so präsent, aber ich find ihn süß, wie er Emma über alles andere stellt und immer auf sie aufpasst. Ansonsten sind noch viele Polizisten involviert und natürlich die ganzen Dorfbewohner.
Wie immer gibt es einen Fall, in dem Emma ermittelt und hier ist es der Mord an einem Dorfbewohner. Emma ist als beratende Instanz dabei, da alles auf einen Übernatürlichen als Täter hindeutet. Dieses Mal war die Auflösung irgendwie einfach und irgendwie auch nicht. Ich hatte schnell einen Verdächtigen, aber das war dann nur die halbe Wahrheit. Ich habe mit trotzdem gefreut, dass ich wenigstens mit irgendwas recht hatte, denn meist bin ich eine totale Niete bei sowas. Man muss aber sagen, dass die Hinweise eindeutig waren. Auf die andere hälfte wäre ich nie gekommen. Zwar hatte ich vermutungen und habe gerätselt, ob der Mord an Emmas Eltern und der aktuelle Mord zusammen hängen, aber ich war am Ende wieder baff und fand den Einfallsreichtum der Autorin bewundernswert.
Aber nicht nur darum geht es in dem Buch, denn Emma will immer noch herausfinden, wieso sie nicht sterben kann und da bietet es sich an, dass sie in ihrer alten Heimat ist. Als Leser hofft man natürlich, dass man endlich Antworten bekommt und allein schon deswegen wollte ich unbedingt weiter lesen. Ich möchte aber nicht verraten, ob man in diesem Band schon Antworten bekommt oder nicht.
Lukas kommt wie gesagt auch vor, allerdings nicht so viel und irgendwie wirkte er auch schwächer auf mich, als in den anderen Bänden. Für mich fehlte seine bedrohliche Aura und sein Auftreten. Das fand ich Beswick, den mutmaßlichen Mörder von Emmas Eltern, schon viel interessanter, obwohl er nur kurz am Beginn und dann am Ende vorkam. Emma hat ihn besucht und allein schon da konnte man viel über seinen Charakter sagen. Ich hätte gerne noch mehr von ihm gelesen.
Die Auflösung von dem Fall und der Höhepunkt des Buches kamen wie immer am Schluss und es war wirklich so spannend, dass ich es einfach beenden musste, obwohl meine Augen schon weh taten. Es passiert hier nochmal so viel und man lernt noch mehr über die Übernatürlichen und natürlich über Emmas Vergangenheit und ihre Eltern. Bis dahin war das Buch gut, aber dann das letzte Drittel war gefüllt mit Spannung und ich habe alles daran geliebt. Man bekommt auch schon einen Vorgeschmack auf den nächsten Band, aber jetzt heißt es wieder warten.
Fazit:
Wie immer ist es ein tolles und spannendes Buch, vor allem da Emma in ihrer Heimat ermittelt und sie dort auch fast alle kennen. Endlich erfährt man mehr über ihre Eltern, den Mord und allgemein über Emma. Einige Fragen, die von den vorherigen Teilen noch offen waren wurden beantwortet und jetzt kann ich mich auf Band fünf freuen. Wie immer eine ganz große Empfehlung!
August 28, 2023
Endlich erfahren wir mehr über Emmas Vergangenheit!
Ich habe den vierten Teil dieser Reihe genauso gemocht wie die anderen. Helen Harper ist einer meiner liebsten Autorinnen geworden und ich werde wahrscheinlich jedes Buch lesen, was sie schreiben wird.
Man hat sich wirklich gefreut wieder in dieser Welt zu sein, ein bisschen wie nach Hause kommen. Das Setting war in diesem Band ein ganz anderes , mir hat aber alles daran gefallen.
Endlich hat man mehr über Emmas Vergangenheit erfahren. Ich habe seit Band 1 auf diese Enthüllung gewartet und wurde nicht enttäuscht.
Die Beziehung zwischen Lukas und Emma mag ich an sich total, ich weiß nur nicht wie ich deren Dynamik jetzt finde. Ich mochte deren Anziehung und Spannung so gerne und fand den Aspekt in diesem Band deutlich schwächer.
Warum nur 4 Sterne? Ich mochte den Plot eigentlich sehr gerne, aber irgendwie hat er mich auch nicht umgehauen. Für 5 Sterne hat es nicht gereicht, aber diese Reihe ist im allgemeinen einfach nur zu empfehlen.
Ich habe den vierten Teil dieser Reihe genauso gemocht wie die anderen. Helen Harper ist einer meiner liebsten Autorinnen geworden und ich werde wahrscheinlich jedes Buch lesen, was sie schreiben wird.
Man hat sich wirklich gefreut wieder in dieser Welt zu sein, ein bisschen wie nach Hause kommen. Das Setting war in diesem Band ein ganz anderes , mir hat aber alles daran gefallen.
Endlich hat man mehr über Emmas Vergangenheit erfahren. Ich habe seit Band 1 auf diese Enthüllung gewartet und wurde nicht enttäuscht.
Die Beziehung zwischen Lukas und Emma mag ich an sich total, ich weiß nur nicht wie ich deren Dynamik jetzt finde. Ich mochte deren Anziehung und Spannung so gerne und fand den Aspekt in diesem Band deutlich schwächer.
Warum nur 4 Sterne? Ich mochte den Plot eigentlich sehr gerne, aber irgendwie hat er mich auch nicht umgehauen. Für 5 Sterne hat es nicht gereicht, aber diese Reihe ist im allgemeinen einfach nur zu empfehlen.
September 7, 2023
Hat sie wie ein Filler angefühlt, auch wenn man mehr über Emmas Vergangenheit erfährt.
December 22, 2024
As expected, keeping up with the fun and adventures. You don't need to think with books like this. It flows and has an overall good vibe.
May 14, 2021
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Urban Fantasy Romance
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Scorched Heart is the fourth installment in author Helen Harper's Firebrand series. After being told by her supervisor to take a vacation after a very public case which lots of people learned of her secret, Detective Constable Emma Bellamy knows that this might be the perfect opportunity to find out where her unique powers came from. For Emma, this case is personal. 25 years ago, her parents were murdered and she somehow survived. Since learning that she is the Phoenix who grows stronger every time she dies, this case might actually answer some important questions as to why she was chosen, and why her parents were murdered.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy Romance
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Scorched Heart is the fourth installment in author Helen Harper's Firebrand series. After being told by her supervisor to take a vacation after a very public case which lots of people learned of her secret, Detective Constable Emma Bellamy knows that this might be the perfect opportunity to find out where her unique powers came from. For Emma, this case is personal. 25 years ago, her parents were murdered and she somehow survived. Since learning that she is the Phoenix who grows stronger every time she dies, this case might actually answer some important questions as to why she was chosen, and why her parents were murdered.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
November 17, 2021
This was a another quick and fair book in the series but this is book 4 and there's minimal growth. The MC finds out her origin, yet does not get actual details to what it means or what she can do. Supernaturals are feared and hated by virtually every human they encounter despite the fact they are the weakest creatures I've ever read. Every book contains a scene where the "most powerful leader" of all vamps or weres are throttled to near death by a human.
February 13, 2022
Okay, I have another book in this series - and clearly the series isn't over yet - but I'm ready to say that this is ONE of the best of them. I'm really impressed with how Harper set the tone from the beginning (with Emma visiting the man who murdered her parents) and brought out not one but two BIG information regarding Emma's past.
One, and two, . I really loved how everything was laid down into us readers.
I loved how Emma really settled in her detective occupation. I loved how she also show respect to the local police (and I loved how they were being helpful because I read enough murder mystery books that had animosities between local police and those coming from big city). I loved Emma and Lukas's relationship (and how Lukas really supported Emma)
I may feel a bit dismayed because and I was really but in overall, I was HIGHLY satisfied with this installment. I loved it from beginning to end.
FIVE STARS most definitely
I am going to keep book #5 on my to-read list for a while until Harper released book #6. Simply because I don't want to feel run out already.
One, and two, . I really loved how everything was laid down into us readers.
I loved how Emma really settled in her detective occupation. I loved how she also show respect to the local police (and I loved how they were being helpful because I read enough murder mystery books that had animosities between local police and those coming from big city). I loved Emma and Lukas's relationship (and how Lukas really supported Emma)
I may feel a bit dismayed because and I was really but in overall, I was HIGHLY satisfied with this installment. I loved it from beginning to end.
FIVE STARS most definitely
I am going to keep book #5 on my to-read list for a while until Harper released book #6. Simply because I don't want to feel run out already.
July 23, 2022
4.5/5.0
Top-notch Urban Fantasy/Mystery!! LOTS of twists and turns in this one! Yes, the surprise villain was a bit of a reach but all the revelations concerning Emma, her past and the awesome relationship she and Lucas have developed is well worth every single word read!
Top-notch Urban Fantasy/Mystery!! LOTS of twists and turns in this one! Yes, the surprise villain was a bit of a reach but all the revelations concerning Emma, her past and the awesome relationship she and Lucas have developed is well worth every single word read!
September 10, 2022
Das Buch hat mir tatsächlich besser gefallen, als Band 3! Die Reihe ist perfekt für laue Sommernächte oder kühlere Herbstnächte, da sie die perfekte Mischung aus Humor & Spannung enthält 🫶🏼
July 20, 2021
Meh. I feel like this entire series could be summed up as: problems with furries. I don't know how the other sup species deal with these shinanigans. I dunno. I don't really enjoy the books, but I don't hate them. I'm sort of bored-reading them, if that makes sense.
In this one, we get Emma's back story but I was also meh about that. I don't really enjoy her sup status and her whole death thing is meh to me as well. Like, how would the lady have know there wasn't already a Phoenix already in existence? What a weird super power. I feel, while interesting, it's sort of the bad kind of interesting like it takes away from her sup power and makes the whole thing even more meh? I dunno. Luke's whole EMMA DON'T DIE AGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIN! thing is annoying too.
Honestly, the mysteries are okay. I just don't really like Emma. She's alright, to a point. And I don't really like the relationship. Luke is boring. Most of the sups are boring. It's like all meh. LOL.
In this one, we get Emma's back story but I was also meh about that. I don't really enjoy her sup status and her whole death thing is meh to me as well. Like, how would the lady have know there wasn't already a Phoenix already in existence? What a weird super power. I feel, while interesting, it's sort of the bad kind of interesting like it takes away from her sup power and makes the whole thing even more meh? I dunno. Luke's whole EMMA DON'T DIE AGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIN! thing is annoying too.
Honestly, the mysteries are okay. I just don't really like Emma. She's alright, to a point. And I don't really like the relationship. Luke is boring. Most of the sups are boring. It's like all meh. LOL.
May 13, 2021
I was really looking forward to this book, I have really enjoyed this series so far. I liked moving out to a different area, seeing more of Emma and Horvath and the mystery. We get some answers about Emma's past and the source of her powers, I will say the big bad was a bit weak and didn't make much sense to me. However this didn't detract from enjoying the book, the characters carried this story for me.
July 4, 2021
A good series to binge 😊
I’ve enjoyed the 4 books in this series, I’ve binged them across 2 days and now need to wait until the next book in The Firebrand series is released. Thankfully the ending to Scorched Heart wrapped up nicely and I wasn’t left waiting with a cliffy for the next book.
I’m enjoying the progression of the relationship between Emma & Lukas - it was a slow build up across the first 2 books so I’ve been happy to see the progression across books 3 & 4.
I’ve enjoyed the 4 books in this series, I’ve binged them across 2 days and now need to wait until the next book in The Firebrand series is released. Thankfully the ending to Scorched Heart wrapped up nicely and I wasn’t left waiting with a cliffy for the next book.
I’m enjoying the progression of the relationship between Emma & Lukas - it was a slow build up across the first 2 books so I’ve been happy to see the progression across books 3 & 4.
February 27, 2023
“As anyone who’s ever suffered a similar loss will know, you spend as much time consoling others about what’s happened as you spend feeling sorry for yourself.”
Title: Scorched Heart
Rating: 4 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Spice: ✖️
Tropes: Slow-burn romance, Whodunit Mystery, UF Sassy Heroine, Age Gap, Crime Fighting Duo, Close proximity, Protective Alpha.
Blurb: Emma’s parents were brutally murdered when she was five years old and their killer has spent twenty-five years in prison. She had no idea where her strange abilities came from and nobody to ask. Now, a shocking murder has been committed in the small village where her parents died and there is evidence that suggests the killer is supernatural. This gives Emma the perfect reason to return to her childhood home and seek the truth behind what she really is. However, those answers might not be what she wants to find.
Trigger warnings : Graphic Death, Graphic Death Descriptions, Prejudices Against Supes, Guns, Betrayal, Serial Killer, Wrongful imprisonment, Strangulation, Broken Neck.
I love the series. It’s official. The crime element, the Supes, the side characters. I love it all. What I don’t love, however, is Detective Superintendent Lucinda Barnes barging in and bringing in a new superior detective to replace Emma as leader. Barnes forced Emma into this gig in the beginning ( despite loving it now) and now Barnes has got her where she wants her, and the relations between Supes and the squad are better than ever before. She wants someone to come in and take over. It’s a bit of a slap in the face, but Emma deals with it better than I would have. This wasn’t what I wanted when I said I wanted new additions to the Squad. This will only bring trouble and tension within the team, not to mention what it will do to the new fragile relations with the Supes.
To allow DS Owen Grace to settle in, Barnes demands that Emma go and offer assistance to a murder investigation that takes Emma back to the town where her parents died. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that the case is linked to Emma's own past and the circumstances of her transformation into the Phoenix ( which we get confirmation on what she is), as well as the murder of her parents. Not all is what it seems and Helen managed to keep me guessing right until the end about who and what was responsible for the past and present murders.
It was refreshing to see Emma working with other law enforcement agencies outside London and how well she integrates with a team that isn't her own. The author does an excellent job showing how well she can work with others even when she isn’t officially invited. The murder investigation was the main focus, but it did open the doors to learning more about other supernaturals in hiding and the magic that helped create them.
Our crime duo continue to work well together. However, I thought we would make more romantic headway in this book, but we only got a few casual mentions of them spending their nights together. I love them working together, but I did expect their dynamic to change at least a little, it left me wanting more. I suppose it’s a good thing, the anticipation makes it all the more exciting. I can't wait to see how their relationship develops in the future, and hopefully, with a new boss as head of the Supe squad it won’t interfere with what they’re building together.
I really appreciate Laura as a character too. She is always there whenever Emma needs her. Shes turned into a true friend which is always a good thing.
Title: Scorched Heart
Rating: 4 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐
Spice: ✖️
Tropes: Slow-burn romance, Whodunit Mystery, UF Sassy Heroine, Age Gap, Crime Fighting Duo, Close proximity, Protective Alpha.
Blurb: Emma’s parents were brutally murdered when she was five years old and their killer has spent twenty-five years in prison. She had no idea where her strange abilities came from and nobody to ask. Now, a shocking murder has been committed in the small village where her parents died and there is evidence that suggests the killer is supernatural. This gives Emma the perfect reason to return to her childhood home and seek the truth behind what she really is. However, those answers might not be what she wants to find.
Trigger warnings : Graphic Death, Graphic Death Descriptions, Prejudices Against Supes, Guns, Betrayal, Serial Killer, Wrongful imprisonment, Strangulation, Broken Neck.
I love the series. It’s official. The crime element, the Supes, the side characters. I love it all. What I don’t love, however, is Detective Superintendent Lucinda Barnes barging in and bringing in a new superior detective to replace Emma as leader. Barnes forced Emma into this gig in the beginning ( despite loving it now) and now Barnes has got her where she wants her, and the relations between Supes and the squad are better than ever before. She wants someone to come in and take over. It’s a bit of a slap in the face, but Emma deals with it better than I would have. This wasn’t what I wanted when I said I wanted new additions to the Squad. This will only bring trouble and tension within the team, not to mention what it will do to the new fragile relations with the Supes.
To allow DS Owen Grace to settle in, Barnes demands that Emma go and offer assistance to a murder investigation that takes Emma back to the town where her parents died. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that the case is linked to Emma's own past and the circumstances of her transformation into the Phoenix ( which we get confirmation on what she is), as well as the murder of her parents. Not all is what it seems and Helen managed to keep me guessing right until the end about who and what was responsible for the past and present murders.
It was refreshing to see Emma working with other law enforcement agencies outside London and how well she integrates with a team that isn't her own. The author does an excellent job showing how well she can work with others even when she isn’t officially invited. The murder investigation was the main focus, but it did open the doors to learning more about other supernaturals in hiding and the magic that helped create them.
Our crime duo continue to work well together. However, I thought we would make more romantic headway in this book, but we only got a few casual mentions of them spending their nights together. I love them working together, but I did expect their dynamic to change at least a little, it left me wanting more. I suppose it’s a good thing, the anticipation makes it all the more exciting. I can't wait to see how their relationship develops in the future, and hopefully, with a new boss as head of the Supe squad it won’t interfere with what they’re building together.
I really appreciate Laura as a character too. She is always there whenever Emma needs her. Shes turned into a true friend which is always a good thing.
November 11, 2022
Emma is determined to find out more about her past, and why she is the Phoenix. After a visit to see the person who murdered her parents when she was 5 left her shaken and afraid of herself, she gets the opportunity to go to Barchapel - the town where her parents were killed. A gruesome murder has occurred, and evidence points to supe involvement. DSI Barnes sends Emma off on some vacation time to assist with the murder, but of course she also takes the opportunity to dig into her own past. As events unfold Emma feels like there is more than meets the eye, and is certain that the current murders are linked to her parents' from 25 years ago. There's a mystery surrounding Barchapel and how Emma became what she is, and she is determined to find it.
Accidentally on purpose read this book in less than 2 days. I'm so immersed in this world and it's characters, the story just swallows me whole and won't let me go until I've finished.
I loved the fact that we got to explore Emma's past and get some answers to questions, but not in a boring way. Events from the past are linking with those of the present, and it's going to take some great detective work to figure them out.
So many twists and unexpected reveals, and even a new type of supe, keep this book interesting until the last. I really enjoy the fact that Harper can write these amazing twists at the end of her books, they fit so well and make so much sense, but you could never see them coming.
Of course, I also loved watching the relationship between Emma and Lukas become deeper. After the previous book I was so excited and hoping that Lukas would get lots of page time, and was honestly disappointed when Emma left for the Kent countryside without him. Yes, he said he'd join her soon, but I wanted more Lukas! Despite being apart, you could still tell how much he cared for her, and I love that.
There was also his unwavering support when he did join her later, despite his plans to surprise her not going quite how he intended.
I'm kinda happy that Harper didn't attempt to write another lead up to a sex scene, it was bad enough in the previous book. But the little references to them sleeping together she does put in there are much better, even if one or two had me laughing.
I am well aware I only have two more books left in this series. I am literally dreading finishing it. I don't think I've loved a series this much this year. I am eagerly awaiting the news that there will be a book 7, I don't want to face the fact that these 6 books are it.
Accidentally on purpose read this book in less than 2 days. I'm so immersed in this world and it's characters, the story just swallows me whole and won't let me go until I've finished.
I loved the fact that we got to explore Emma's past and get some answers to questions, but not in a boring way. Events from the past are linking with those of the present, and it's going to take some great detective work to figure them out.
So many twists and unexpected reveals, and even a new type of supe, keep this book interesting until the last. I really enjoy the fact that Harper can write these amazing twists at the end of her books, they fit so well and make so much sense, but you could never see them coming.
Of course, I also loved watching the relationship between Emma and Lukas become deeper. After the previous book I was so excited and hoping that Lukas would get lots of page time, and was honestly disappointed when Emma left for the Kent countryside without him. Yes, he said he'd join her soon, but I wanted more Lukas! Despite being apart, you could still tell how much he cared for her, and I love that.
He handed me a bag. ‘Here.’
I blinked. ‘What’s this?’
‘Sandwich. Flask of coffee. A few snacks.’
‘I’m going to Kent, not Australia.’
Lukas gave me a long look. ‘I want to look after you. If the only way you’ll let me do that is by making sure you have lunch, that’s the way it’ll be.’
There was also his unwavering support when he did join her later, despite his plans to surprise her not going quite how he intended.
He splayed out his hands in a gesture of humility. ‘I won’t do anything like this again. Next time you’re murdered, I’ll keep out of the way.’
I'm kinda happy that Harper didn't attempt to write another lead up to a sex scene, it was bad enough in the previous book. But the little references to them sleeping together she does put in there are much better, even if one or two had me laughing.
I am well aware I only have two more books left in this series. I am literally dreading finishing it. I don't think I've loved a series this much this year. I am eagerly awaiting the news that there will be a book 7, I don't want to face the fact that these 6 books are it.
August 21, 2021
Detective constable Emma Bellamy is an excellent police officer but the one crime that affects her the most is her parents' murder. When another murder is committed in the same small village as Emma's parents she can't let it go and it looks like she was right not to. There are plenty of twists and turns in Scorched Heart but with Lord Lucas Horvath by her side, Emma is sure to solve the crime that is if she doesn't become a crime to solve.
Emma has gotten along pretty well in her life but when another murder occurs in the village of Barchapel, she takes the opportunity to look into her own parents' murder. Emma has good instincts, she follows all the clues and puts together good theories. I like the fact that she doesn't shy away from asking questions about her parents and how she comes up with a plan to get the information she needs.
Things are most definitely weird in this town and she calls in for reinforcements, Emma reaches out to her friend doctor Laura to help with some forensic evidence she finds that seems to imply that the events of her parents' murder don't add up. Laura is one of my favorite characters in this series,, she doesn't treat Emma or Lucas like they are any different from her, she doesn't have the prejudices that others seem to have about the supers plus she's just quirky and nice.
After a few days and another murder, Lucas joins Emma in Barchapel. They are officially together but I think it might be more than that because Lucas admits to deeper feelings for Emma. There are a couple of speeches he makes and I swooned, Lucas is head over heels in love with Emma, I believe they are mates but it hasn't been confirmed. Emma obviously has deep feelings for Lucas but she has her reservations while Lucas is all in with Emma and is willing to wait for that trust and understanding. I find them to be adorable together, their banter is great, and they work well together, solving supernatural crimes.
Helen has amazed me putting together this detective story and adding in the supernatural twists and turns. I didn't have a clue as to who the killer was until right before it was revealed. I loved learning about new supes in this one, the subject of new supes put a focus on the rules and laws supes have to live by and the effects not only on them but the unattended consequences to humans as well.
Scorched Heart was a fantastic read, Ruth Eckhart has once again done an excellent narrating the story. There were plenty of clues, crazy twists, and a raven that I find hard to believe is just a raven. Scorched Heart is the fourth book in the Firebrand series but I hope not the last, I would love to go on more crazy adventures with Emma and Lucas.
Emma has gotten along pretty well in her life but when another murder occurs in the village of Barchapel, she takes the opportunity to look into her own parents' murder. Emma has good instincts, she follows all the clues and puts together good theories. I like the fact that she doesn't shy away from asking questions about her parents and how she comes up with a plan to get the information she needs.
Things are most definitely weird in this town and she calls in for reinforcements, Emma reaches out to her friend doctor Laura to help with some forensic evidence she finds that seems to imply that the events of her parents' murder don't add up. Laura is one of my favorite characters in this series,, she doesn't treat Emma or Lucas like they are any different from her, she doesn't have the prejudices that others seem to have about the supers plus she's just quirky and nice.
After a few days and another murder, Lucas joins Emma in Barchapel. They are officially together but I think it might be more than that because Lucas admits to deeper feelings for Emma. There are a couple of speeches he makes and I swooned, Lucas is head over heels in love with Emma, I believe they are mates but it hasn't been confirmed. Emma obviously has deep feelings for Lucas but she has her reservations while Lucas is all in with Emma and is willing to wait for that trust and understanding. I find them to be adorable together, their banter is great, and they work well together, solving supernatural crimes.
Helen has amazed me putting together this detective story and adding in the supernatural twists and turns. I didn't have a clue as to who the killer was until right before it was revealed. I loved learning about new supes in this one, the subject of new supes put a focus on the rules and laws supes have to live by and the effects not only on them but the unattended consequences to humans as well.
Scorched Heart was a fantastic read, Ruth Eckhart has once again done an excellent narrating the story. There were plenty of clues, crazy twists, and a raven that I find hard to believe is just a raven. Scorched Heart is the fourth book in the Firebrand series but I hope not the last, I would love to go on more crazy adventures with Emma and Lucas.
July 18, 2023
ACHTUNG das ist ist Band 4 der Reihe, daher Spoiler vorhanden!!!!
Und plötzlich ist es ein Krimi und nicht mehr eine Liebesgeschichte...
Meinung:
Es gibt nicht viel, was mich wirklich an Büchern stört und ich kann auch ein Krimi aushalten, wenn dafür eine gute Liebesgeschichte dahinter steckt. Oder zumindest genügend Anreize gegeben sind. Ich fand den Plott gut, das schon, aber mich hat die nicht gegebene Entwicklung von Emma gefehlt oder auch mehr von Lukas mit ihr zusammen. Versteht mich nicht falsch, es war ok, aber im Gegensatz zu den vorherigen Bändern fehlte mir hier die Bindung zur Protagonistin und das obwohl man in diesem Band herausfindet, warum sie der Phönix ist. Vom Schreibstil her ist es flüssig und einfach zu lesen, auch gibt es keine komplizierten Sachverhalte und ich fand es auch gut, dieses Band gelesen zu haben, um das bisherige zu verstehen. Für mich ist es das bisher schwächste Buch der Reihe, trotzdem bin ich gespannt wie die Beziehung zwischen Emma und Lukas weitergeht und was die beiden in London erwartet.
Fazit:
Am besten ohne Erwartungen herangehen, dann könnte man positiv überrascht werden. Für alle, die die Firebrandserie von Anfang an verfolgen: Ein Zwischendurch-Read.
2,5/5 Sternen
Inhalt:
Eine Reise in die Vergangenheit bringt nicht immer, was man erwartet ...
Emma Bellamy hat schon viel erlebt, seit sie zur Supernatural Squad versetzt wurde. Nach den Ermittlungen gegen Werwölfe und Vampire und der Erkundung ihrer eignen unerwarteten magischen Fähigkeiten, scheint sie nun endlich ihren Platz in der Welt der Londoner Sups gefunden zu haben. Das liegt nicht zuletzt an dem attraktiven Vampirlord Lukas Horvath, für den sie mittlerweile mehr als nur körperliche Anziehung empfindet.
Doch dann erregt ein Mord Emmas Aufmerksamkeit, der nicht in London, sondern ihrem alten Heimatort begangen wurde - dem Ort, in dem ihre Eltern ermordet wurden, als sie fünf Jahre alt war. Da dieses Verbrechen Spuren übernatürlicher Kräfte aufweist, wird Emma gebeten, die Ermittlungen zu unterstützen - und dabei mit ihrer eigenen Vergangenheit konfrontiert ...
Wichtige Info:
Dieses Buch muss in der Reihenfolge gelesen werden, denn sonst kommt man nicht wirklich hinterher.
Reihenfolge:
1 Magic Sparks
2 Magic Flame
3 Magic Smoke
4 Magic Fire
Ich habe dieses Buch als Rezensionsexemplar erhalten, das hat meine Meinung jedoch nicht beeinflusst.
Und plötzlich ist es ein Krimi und nicht mehr eine Liebesgeschichte...
Meinung:
Es gibt nicht viel, was mich wirklich an Büchern stört und ich kann auch ein Krimi aushalten, wenn dafür eine gute Liebesgeschichte dahinter steckt. Oder zumindest genügend Anreize gegeben sind. Ich fand den Plott gut, das schon, aber mich hat die nicht gegebene Entwicklung von Emma gefehlt oder auch mehr von Lukas mit ihr zusammen. Versteht mich nicht falsch, es war ok, aber im Gegensatz zu den vorherigen Bändern fehlte mir hier die Bindung zur Protagonistin und das obwohl man in diesem Band herausfindet, warum sie der Phönix ist. Vom Schreibstil her ist es flüssig und einfach zu lesen, auch gibt es keine komplizierten Sachverhalte und ich fand es auch gut, dieses Band gelesen zu haben, um das bisherige zu verstehen. Für mich ist es das bisher schwächste Buch der Reihe, trotzdem bin ich gespannt wie die Beziehung zwischen Emma und Lukas weitergeht und was die beiden in London erwartet.
Fazit:
Am besten ohne Erwartungen herangehen, dann könnte man positiv überrascht werden. Für alle, die die Firebrandserie von Anfang an verfolgen: Ein Zwischendurch-Read.
2,5/5 Sternen
Inhalt:
Eine Reise in die Vergangenheit bringt nicht immer, was man erwartet ...
Emma Bellamy hat schon viel erlebt, seit sie zur Supernatural Squad versetzt wurde. Nach den Ermittlungen gegen Werwölfe und Vampire und der Erkundung ihrer eignen unerwarteten magischen Fähigkeiten, scheint sie nun endlich ihren Platz in der Welt der Londoner Sups gefunden zu haben. Das liegt nicht zuletzt an dem attraktiven Vampirlord Lukas Horvath, für den sie mittlerweile mehr als nur körperliche Anziehung empfindet.
Doch dann erregt ein Mord Emmas Aufmerksamkeit, der nicht in London, sondern ihrem alten Heimatort begangen wurde - dem Ort, in dem ihre Eltern ermordet wurden, als sie fünf Jahre alt war. Da dieses Verbrechen Spuren übernatürlicher Kräfte aufweist, wird Emma gebeten, die Ermittlungen zu unterstützen - und dabei mit ihrer eigenen Vergangenheit konfrontiert ...
Wichtige Info:
Dieses Buch muss in der Reihenfolge gelesen werden, denn sonst kommt man nicht wirklich hinterher.
Reihenfolge:
1 Magic Sparks
2 Magic Flame
3 Magic Smoke
4 Magic Fire
Ich habe dieses Buch als Rezensionsexemplar erhalten, das hat meine Meinung jedoch nicht beeinflusst.
May 10, 2021
Another supernatural mystery for DC Emma... on top of the one about herself.
This is my favorite of the Firebrand series, surprisingly (or at least surprising me)! I would label this book as a cross between CSI and Supernatural. Emma heads back to her home town, where she was a child, for answers about herself -- and runs into a seemingly supe-related serial murder while she is there. The cast of characters, trail of clues and obstacles flowed perfectly in this whodunnit, a la the movie "Knives Out". I felt some was a bit obvious but I liked the surprises along the way that threw me off and complicated the storyline. It's also interesting to see Emma and Lukas's relationship grow and Emma fit a bit more into her career.
Some typical Helen Harper humor, quirky characters, and steady pace with reveals and twists. I very much enjoyed this book. A bit darker than her usual stories, but an entrancing tale. Would read again, would recommend, and hoping for a book 5!
This is my favorite of the Firebrand series, surprisingly (or at least surprising me)! I would label this book as a cross between CSI and Supernatural. Emma heads back to her home town, where she was a child, for answers about herself -- and runs into a seemingly supe-related serial murder while she is there. The cast of characters, trail of clues and obstacles flowed perfectly in this whodunnit, a la the movie "Knives Out". I felt some was a bit obvious but I liked the surprises along the way that threw me off and complicated the storyline. It's also interesting to see Emma and Lukas's relationship grow and Emma fit a bit more into her career.
Some typical Helen Harper humor, quirky characters, and steady pace with reveals and twists. I very much enjoyed this book. A bit darker than her usual stories, but an entrancing tale. Would read again, would recommend, and hoping for a book 5!
May 25, 2021
I loved all the Firebrand-books so far, but this one was definitely even better than the first 3.
Emma has a new case, this time not in London, but in Kent, in the small town in which she was born. She’s not only trying to solve the new case, but discovers that it is connected to her and her parents’ murder all these years ago, and finally learns about her Phoenix-origins.
Emma must be one of the nicest FMC ever written, without being boring or having a dark side. She’s funny, loyal, smart and badass - I can’t think of a single thing that I don’t like about her. And Lukas... he’s one of the swoon-worthiest book-boyfriends ever *sigh
The audiobook narration by Ruth Urquhart is just perfect, she gives each character (even the smaller ones) a distinctive voice, it’s like a movie playing in your head. Highly recommended series if you’re looking for a murder-mystery-pnr with more than a grain of British humor!
Emma has a new case, this time not in London, but in Kent, in the small town in which she was born. She’s not only trying to solve the new case, but discovers that it is connected to her and her parents’ murder all these years ago, and finally learns about her Phoenix-origins.
Emma must be one of the nicest FMC ever written, without being boring or having a dark side. She’s funny, loyal, smart and badass - I can’t think of a single thing that I don’t like about her. And Lukas... he’s one of the swoon-worthiest book-boyfriends ever *sigh
The audiobook narration by Ruth Urquhart is just perfect, she gives each character (even the smaller ones) a distinctive voice, it’s like a movie playing in your head. Highly recommended series if you’re looking for a murder-mystery-pnr with more than a grain of British humor!
September 22, 2024
Another gruesome murder has been committed in the small town where Emma’s parents were murdered. As it was possibly a supernatural killer, Emma takes some time off to offer her support and knowledge to the local police. Along the way she is hoping to find more about her parents’ deaths, including a visit to the man convicted of the murders.
She quickly realized that the current murder and the old one are connected but has to figure out how.
This book reveals a lot about Emma’s background as well as a good mystery. And Lukas comes to help.
There are a bunch of interesting characters as well as some action. There is also some humour in this nice little mystery. I had an idea who it would be but there was a surprise ending.
A fun, quick, fairly light read.
She quickly realized that the current murder and the old one are connected but has to figure out how.
This book reveals a lot about Emma’s background as well as a good mystery. And Lukas comes to help.
There are a bunch of interesting characters as well as some action. There is also some humour in this nice little mystery. I had an idea who it would be but there was a surprise ending.
A fun, quick, fairly light read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews