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Everwood Falls #1
Light My Pyre
EVERWOOD FALLS… a small supernatural community tucked up in the Colorado Rockies where witches, werewolves and vampires can live without fear of discovery, and those with curses they can’t control are sent to keep the existence of magic from being revealed to Mundanes.
As a prince of the fae High Court, Asher Heath has always been caught between two worlds—the kingdom of faerie where his fire magic is unparalleled and the human realm where he works as a firefighter. But two months ago, he lost control of a blaze his fae magic was supposed to contain, with tragic results. With his magic poisoned by a demon curse, he can’t risk getting close to anyone… including Gwyn, the fierce and beautiful dragon shifter he encounters out in a thunderstorm in the woods. But trouble has followed Asher to Everwood Falls. An arsonist is setting fires around town using demon magic to possess their victims—and their targets get bigger every time.
Gwyneth Drake doesn’t need a prince to save her. She shifts into a twenty-foot fire-breathing dragon who can fight her own battles. A fierce advocate for the dragon community, she was forced into hiding when an ex tried to sear her dragon from the skies. Now dragon blood has been found at one of the arson sites and she and Asher will have to work together to stop the arsonist before they strike again. Someone from Gwyn’s past may have followed her to Everwood Falls, and they’re too close to the case for comfort…
With a herd of enchanted elk, carnivorous spruce trees, and sentient pumpkins that stalk the local landscaping, Everwood Falls is a quirky mountain town where scales and fur mean found family.
As a prince of the fae High Court, Asher Heath has always been caught between two worlds—the kingdom of faerie where his fire magic is unparalleled and the human realm where he works as a firefighter. But two months ago, he lost control of a blaze his fae magic was supposed to contain, with tragic results. With his magic poisoned by a demon curse, he can’t risk getting close to anyone… including Gwyn, the fierce and beautiful dragon shifter he encounters out in a thunderstorm in the woods. But trouble has followed Asher to Everwood Falls. An arsonist is setting fires around town using demon magic to possess their victims—and their targets get bigger every time.
Gwyneth Drake doesn’t need a prince to save her. She shifts into a twenty-foot fire-breathing dragon who can fight her own battles. A fierce advocate for the dragon community, she was forced into hiding when an ex tried to sear her dragon from the skies. Now dragon blood has been found at one of the arson sites and she and Asher will have to work together to stop the arsonist before they strike again. Someone from Gwyn’s past may have followed her to Everwood Falls, and they’re too close to the case for comfort…
With a herd of enchanted elk, carnivorous spruce trees, and sentient pumpkins that stalk the local landscaping, Everwood Falls is a quirky mountain town where scales and fur mean found family.
537 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2023
118 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Kat Kinney
14 books612 followersAuthor Kat Kinney writes spicy paranormal romance and heartwarming cozy fantasy. Her books have found family, adorable pets, strong female characters, and happy endings!
She lives with her family and three extremely pampered guinea pigs who do not like werewolves, vampires, or dragons and wonder why their human insists on writing about things that like to eat them. When she isn’t writing about things that bite and howl, Kat can be found knitting crazy socks, puttering about her garden, baking entirely too many pies, and plotting out future books!
She lives with her family and three extremely pampered guinea pigs who do not like werewolves, vampires, or dragons and wonder why their human insists on writing about things that like to eat them. When she isn’t writing about things that bite and howl, Kat can be found knitting crazy socks, puttering about her garden, baking entirely too many pies, and plotting out future books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
February 10, 2023
Light My Pyre is the first book in Kat Kinsey’s new paranormal romance series Everwood Falls. Kat Kinney writes such fantastic paranormal romances, and I’m grateful to have received an advanced copy of the book. The world Kinney created is so interesting, and I enjoyed learning about the social hierarchy and the contrasting cultures and traditions of different supernatural beings. I’m also really intrigued by Everwood Falls and its variety of citizens who struggle to control their power. The town is hidden from the human world, so the witches, vampires, fae, and werewolves with unpredictable or difficult-to-control magic can live without worrying about being discovered. It’s a unique community, and you never know what to expect between the carnivorous trees, enchanted elks, and other magical happenings.
Ash is everything I love in a male protagonist. Prince of the fae High Court, he is also a firefighter in Everwood Falls, and he sounds super swoon-worthy. He’s smart, honorable, and brave, and he’s well-respected in the community. And he falls so hard for Gwyn! I loved that! With a curse on him, Ash doesn’t want to get close to her and put her life at risk, but Gwyn proves she can take care of herself. She’s as strong, smart, and courageous as Ash, and it’s awesome to see Ash acknowledge and accept that even when he wants to protect her.
Gwyn and Ash have a great love story that develops while they work together to investigate arsons across Everwood Falls. They have an instant connection and great chemistry, though they both struggle to let each other in. They have secrets in their pasts that still haunt and threaten them in the present, so neither wants to put the other in even more danger than they’re already in. But their resistance is futile, and the more time they sled together the more they struggle to resist their feelings. I love them together. They make such a great team, and their banter is great. You can really feel the connection between them both when they tease each other and when they have more serious moments.
And one of my favorite tropes is in the story! I always enjoy a great found family, and that’s so prevalent, especially as Gwyn becomes more ingratiated into the community. Gwyn is hiding from a dangerous man and an abusive situation, so she barely communicates with her family, but she finds a new family in Everwood Falls.
With Ash’s curse, Gwyn’s troubles, and an arsonist plaguing the city, the plot is rife with action, intrigue, and suspense. The secondary characters are great too, and I’m eager to learn more about Lucien. He’s an enigmatic character who hinted at a past loss that broke his heart. I need to know more! Lol Hopefully, we’ll learn more in future books in the series. Also, can I just say how much I love the title? Considering Gwyn is a dragon, and Ash has fire magic, the title is perfect! I always get a kick out of a book title that’s inspired by a song title. lol Special thanks to Kat Kinney for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Ash is everything I love in a male protagonist. Prince of the fae High Court, he is also a firefighter in Everwood Falls, and he sounds super swoon-worthy. He’s smart, honorable, and brave, and he’s well-respected in the community. And he falls so hard for Gwyn! I loved that! With a curse on him, Ash doesn’t want to get close to her and put her life at risk, but Gwyn proves she can take care of herself. She’s as strong, smart, and courageous as Ash, and it’s awesome to see Ash acknowledge and accept that even when he wants to protect her.
Gwyn and Ash have a great love story that develops while they work together to investigate arsons across Everwood Falls. They have an instant connection and great chemistry, though they both struggle to let each other in. They have secrets in their pasts that still haunt and threaten them in the present, so neither wants to put the other in even more danger than they’re already in. But their resistance is futile, and the more time they sled together the more they struggle to resist their feelings. I love them together. They make such a great team, and their banter is great. You can really feel the connection between them both when they tease each other and when they have more serious moments.
And one of my favorite tropes is in the story! I always enjoy a great found family, and that’s so prevalent, especially as Gwyn becomes more ingratiated into the community. Gwyn is hiding from a dangerous man and an abusive situation, so she barely communicates with her family, but she finds a new family in Everwood Falls.
With Ash’s curse, Gwyn’s troubles, and an arsonist plaguing the city, the plot is rife with action, intrigue, and suspense. The secondary characters are great too, and I’m eager to learn more about Lucien. He’s an enigmatic character who hinted at a past loss that broke his heart. I need to know more! Lol Hopefully, we’ll learn more in future books in the series. Also, can I just say how much I love the title? Considering Gwyn is a dragon, and Ash has fire magic, the title is perfect! I always get a kick out of a book title that’s inspired by a song title. lol Special thanks to Kat Kinney for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
May 31, 2023
How to love a dragon? It is absolutely obvious that you cannot train one.
Asher is a firefighter, a loving brother and grandson, a faithful friend, and – a fae. He is many things, but definitely not a coward. So, when he meets Gwyn for the first time – in her twenty-foot fire-breathing dragon form – he is ready to do everything to keep his dog Daisy safe (now, if it isn’t the most adorable name for a huge Irish wolfhound who likes nothing better than eating one sock out of every pair, then I don’t know what is).
Gwyn – apart from being able to transform into a huge, menacing-looking dragon – is a girl from a loving family who is forced to run from her perfect life.
Everwood Falls is a small town in the Rocky Mountains – a sanctuary for some supernatural creatures and a place of exile for others.
“Light My Pyre” by Kat Kinney has everything to make your heart beat faster. A mysterious arsonist who seems to follow Asher even when he moves to another town after a tragic event at work. A kaleidoscope of events that put almost everyone under suspicion. A slow-burn romance between a fae prince (who is an impossibly and seductively handsome firefighter) and a red-haired beauty who turns into a powerful dragon.
In addition to the mystery, romance, rules and intrigues of the supernatural world, “Light My Pyre” teases readers’ appetite with eloquent descriptions of delicious food and tugs at your heartstrings by making you fall in love with adorable pets and then putting them in grave danger. Did I mention a herd of enchanted elk with their antlers glowing in the dark? The werewolves of Everwood Falls have a peculiar sense of humour…
I’m certainly looking forward to the next book in this series.
Asher is a firefighter, a loving brother and grandson, a faithful friend, and – a fae. He is many things, but definitely not a coward. So, when he meets Gwyn for the first time – in her twenty-foot fire-breathing dragon form – he is ready to do everything to keep his dog Daisy safe (now, if it isn’t the most adorable name for a huge Irish wolfhound who likes nothing better than eating one sock out of every pair, then I don’t know what is).
Gwyn – apart from being able to transform into a huge, menacing-looking dragon – is a girl from a loving family who is forced to run from her perfect life.
Everwood Falls is a small town in the Rocky Mountains – a sanctuary for some supernatural creatures and a place of exile for others.
“Light My Pyre” by Kat Kinney has everything to make your heart beat faster. A mysterious arsonist who seems to follow Asher even when he moves to another town after a tragic event at work. A kaleidoscope of events that put almost everyone under suspicion. A slow-burn romance between a fae prince (who is an impossibly and seductively handsome firefighter) and a red-haired beauty who turns into a powerful dragon.
In addition to the mystery, romance, rules and intrigues of the supernatural world, “Light My Pyre” teases readers’ appetite with eloquent descriptions of delicious food and tugs at your heartstrings by making you fall in love with adorable pets and then putting them in grave danger. Did I mention a herd of enchanted elk with their antlers glowing in the dark? The werewolves of Everwood Falls have a peculiar sense of humour…
I’m certainly looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 23, 2023
Another fun, Kinney paranormal mystery with a side of cozy and romance. Gwyn was charming and vulnerable but also a fire breathing dragon, so yeah. Don’t mess with her! And Asher was a delightful LI. They each come with their own baggage, and I loved seeing them work through it while simultaneously searching for the town’s mysterious arsonist. Kinney does a great job of filling her towns with fun characters you can’t help but look forward to reading about in future books. Overall, a solid read!
May 13, 2023
Light My Pyre is a fabulous cosy paranormal mystery romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. I love Kinney's writing style anyway, and this series will be a great addition to her catalogue.
Kinney's world-building, as ever, is fantastic, and Everwood Falls is a charming place where every type of supernatural exists. All have a common reason for living there—they are not able to live in the mortal world for one reason or another. The story cracks along at a great pace, and the character development is good; there are some great personalities, and I can't wait to find out more about them. The relationships are believable and engaging, and the romance is sweet. And I have to mention Daisy, the wolfhound. She sort of stole the show. The added mystery was wonderfully executed, and as we find out, never judge a book by its cover—not all baddies are stereotypical or expected.
Definitely 5 stars from me, and one I'd highly recommend you take a chance on.
Kinney's world-building, as ever, is fantastic, and Everwood Falls is a charming place where every type of supernatural exists. All have a common reason for living there—they are not able to live in the mortal world for one reason or another. The story cracks along at a great pace, and the character development is good; there are some great personalities, and I can't wait to find out more about them. The relationships are believable and engaging, and the romance is sweet. And I have to mention Daisy, the wolfhound. She sort of stole the show. The added mystery was wonderfully executed, and as we find out, never judge a book by its cover—not all baddies are stereotypical or expected.
Definitely 5 stars from me, and one I'd highly recommend you take a chance on.
June 21, 2024
I am so glad this series exists. And it’s the best kind because you don’t necessarily have to read them in order. The setting is what makes it a series and that’s something I wish I saw more of!
Speaking of setting—easily my favorite aspect of these books! A cozy little town in the Colorado mountains that just happens to mix vampires, witches, dragons, angels and all other manner of mystical creatures with humans. And they just want to live out their lives!
I love the stakes here because they aren’t world-ending, except for our MC and that’s what makes us engaged! We want her to succeed, we sympathize with her, we want her to get away from whatever is haunting her.
And when we find out what’s haunting her, we despise the antagonist even more. But nothing is to be taken at first glance! There’s a mystery to it so I won’t give it away but the more clues you get, the more excited you become.
And let’s talk about Gwyn and Asher because, your honor, I love them. They’re alike enough that you understand why they’d be drawn to one another, different enough to be enchanting and both stubborn enough to put a mule to shame. I loved seeing them put up their walls and make dumb mistakes because it was absolutely believable.
But their vulnerable moments, where we got to see all Gwyn’s fear come out and Asher’s marshmallow center who just wants to help her! I lived for those.
And all the side characters are amazing. I love there are familiars, friends and they all feel fleshed out. It truly draws you into this world. Plus having an adorable wolfhound called Daisy immediately earns you bonus points!
Can’t wait for book 3!
Speaking of setting—easily my favorite aspect of these books! A cozy little town in the Colorado mountains that just happens to mix vampires, witches, dragons, angels and all other manner of mystical creatures with humans. And they just want to live out their lives!
I love the stakes here because they aren’t world-ending, except for our MC and that’s what makes us engaged! We want her to succeed, we sympathize with her, we want her to get away from whatever is haunting her.
And when we find out what’s haunting her, we despise the antagonist even more. But nothing is to be taken at first glance! There’s a mystery to it so I won’t give it away but the more clues you get, the more excited you become.
And let’s talk about Gwyn and Asher because, your honor, I love them. They’re alike enough that you understand why they’d be drawn to one another, different enough to be enchanting and both stubborn enough to put a mule to shame. I loved seeing them put up their walls and make dumb mistakes because it was absolutely believable.
But their vulnerable moments, where we got to see all Gwyn’s fear come out and Asher’s marshmallow center who just wants to help her! I lived for those.
And all the side characters are amazing. I love there are familiars, friends and they all feel fleshed out. It truly draws you into this world. Plus having an adorable wolfhound called Daisy immediately earns you bonus points!
Can’t wait for book 3!
November 9, 2024
Excellent Start . . .
Asher Heath is a Fae prince firefighter in Everwood Falls whose skill is the manipulation of fire. The ability to control fire was rare, especially with a Mundane (human) father. His wolfhound, Daisy, probably the star of the story or at least the favorite character who will steal your heart, was a loyal and protective friend. And Gwyn Drake is a dragon shifter whose abusive ex injured her wing so she could not fly. Asher and Gwyn will slowly fall for each other, but in the meantime, they will join forces to find the arsonist setting the fires in their supernatural community of witches, werewolves and vampires. The arsonist is trying to implicate Asher, and they need to figure out why as he seems to be escalating. Will they be able to find and defeat him? Or will the demon magic he is using be too powerful even for them?
The narrator for the audiobook version, Monica Franklin, brings the “reading” experience alive for the listener. She does a good job with the voices to personalize the story and make it easy for the listener to get an accurate impression of what each character is like. It helps to set the mood, familiarize the reader with the characters, and offers a pleasant way to “read” and enjoy the book.
Asher Heath is a Fae prince firefighter in Everwood Falls whose skill is the manipulation of fire. The ability to control fire was rare, especially with a Mundane (human) father. His wolfhound, Daisy, probably the star of the story or at least the favorite character who will steal your heart, was a loyal and protective friend. And Gwyn Drake is a dragon shifter whose abusive ex injured her wing so she could not fly. Asher and Gwyn will slowly fall for each other, but in the meantime, they will join forces to find the arsonist setting the fires in their supernatural community of witches, werewolves and vampires. The arsonist is trying to implicate Asher, and they need to figure out why as he seems to be escalating. Will they be able to find and defeat him? Or will the demon magic he is using be too powerful even for them?
The narrator for the audiobook version, Monica Franklin, brings the “reading” experience alive for the listener. She does a good job with the voices to personalize the story and make it easy for the listener to get an accurate impression of what each character is like. It helps to set the mood, familiarize the reader with the characters, and offers a pleasant way to “read” and enjoy the book.
Want to read
June 11, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBOX contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
Our MC is relocated to a quiet Colorado town of witches, werewolves, and other fae to lie low after a fight with a raging forest fire that should have killed him, but a spate of arson involving demonic objects demands his attention.
This urban fantasy romance has a wonderfully readable style. Its dialogue is fun and establishes character and setting alike, and its 3rd person prose is totally competent, introducing us to our MC and the world of secret fae that live alongside Mundanes.
This introduction belies a sense of humor in local werewolves who have cultivated a heard of magical elk to chase on full moons—just for exercise, mind. They hate all the morning-after ticks and hair in their teeth and all the other discomforts of an actual wild hunt.
The immediate opening has a grounded focus as our MC builds a pyre by hand. His name, Asher, is playfully apt, because he is an unusually powerful fae who can control fire.
He was in the forestry service, fighting fire fires before an unnatural fire got out of control. This makes his character seem rather heroic, and establishes a dark, lurking mystery early in the story as a background to the more immediate mystery of local arson.
This opening has a patient confidence that is to its credit. It moves through time naturally, giving the reader snapshots of the incident that lead to our MCs relocation, while losing no time in establishing the ongoing demonic arson.
Tho the setting seems standard, the opening doesn’t take its readers familiarity with the genre for granted, and carefully establishes the who, what, and where of its paranormal elements and their governing order and mandate of secrecy.
This seems like an easy, engaging read. I feel I’m in competent hands and already would like to get to know our protagonist better, as well as his 5,000 yr old demon friend. What’s up with that? We’re off to a delightful start. I’m in!
Our MC is relocated to a quiet Colorado town of witches, werewolves, and other fae to lie low after a fight with a raging forest fire that should have killed him, but a spate of arson involving demonic objects demands his attention.
This urban fantasy romance has a wonderfully readable style. Its dialogue is fun and establishes character and setting alike, and its 3rd person prose is totally competent, introducing us to our MC and the world of secret fae that live alongside Mundanes.
This introduction belies a sense of humor in local werewolves who have cultivated a heard of magical elk to chase on full moons—just for exercise, mind. They hate all the morning-after ticks and hair in their teeth and all the other discomforts of an actual wild hunt.
The immediate opening has a grounded focus as our MC builds a pyre by hand. His name, Asher, is playfully apt, because he is an unusually powerful fae who can control fire.
He was in the forestry service, fighting fire fires before an unnatural fire got out of control. This makes his character seem rather heroic, and establishes a dark, lurking mystery early in the story as a background to the more immediate mystery of local arson.
This opening has a patient confidence that is to its credit. It moves through time naturally, giving the reader snapshots of the incident that lead to our MCs relocation, while losing no time in establishing the ongoing demonic arson.
Tho the setting seems standard, the opening doesn’t take its readers familiarity with the genre for granted, and carefully establishes the who, what, and where of its paranormal elements and their governing order and mandate of secrecy.
This seems like an easy, engaging read. I feel I’m in competent hands and already would like to get to know our protagonist better, as well as his 5,000 yr old demon friend. What’s up with that? We’re off to a delightful start. I’m in!
April 18, 2023
In Light My Pyre Author Kat Kinney draws her reader into a paranormal world where supernatural outcasts ~ fae, demons, dragon shapeshifters, fallen angels, vampires and werewolves try to coexist.
In our lives we often find people cast out based on the indignity of their birth, where they come from or who they are. Kat Kinney shows us that the magical world is not immune to ostracising someone based on their origins. Some are better than others and some are best kept at arms length. What do they feel? Do they hurt? Does their pain lead them to walk down paths they never should have to begin with?
Told in an enticing manner the entire focus is on embracing your differences instead of letting it fester and turn into something ugly.
Such profound writing ~ visible in the fear and blame targeted toward a dragon shape shifter, the hate toward demons, the dislike for vampires or witches who cannot control their power. Kat lets the story unfold so beautifully, leaving us with the message that we cannot just make assumptions about folks. Because someone has all the traits of a villain doesn't mean he has crossed a line and just because someone comes across as a victim doesn't mean there isn't deceit lurking in their minds.
I loved the part about the dragon rescuing the prince, the fact that the dragon is a female shape shifter makes it all the more endearing to me.
Light My Pyre is a delicious concoction of magic, suspense, secrets, deceit and most of all love that will keep its readers engaged with its swirlingly mouth watering dishes, dreamy characters and adorable heroes also disguised as pets.
In our lives we often find people cast out based on the indignity of their birth, where they come from or who they are. Kat Kinney shows us that the magical world is not immune to ostracising someone based on their origins. Some are better than others and some are best kept at arms length. What do they feel? Do they hurt? Does their pain lead them to walk down paths they never should have to begin with?
Told in an enticing manner the entire focus is on embracing your differences instead of letting it fester and turn into something ugly.
Such profound writing ~ visible in the fear and blame targeted toward a dragon shape shifter, the hate toward demons, the dislike for vampires or witches who cannot control their power. Kat lets the story unfold so beautifully, leaving us with the message that we cannot just make assumptions about folks. Because someone has all the traits of a villain doesn't mean he has crossed a line and just because someone comes across as a victim doesn't mean there isn't deceit lurking in their minds.
I loved the part about the dragon rescuing the prince, the fact that the dragon is a female shape shifter makes it all the more endearing to me.
Light My Pyre is a delicious concoction of magic, suspense, secrets, deceit and most of all love that will keep its readers engaged with its swirlingly mouth watering dishes, dreamy characters and adorable heroes also disguised as pets.
February 5, 2023
This cute series starter will likely make you smile if nothing else. It's perfect for cozy romance lovers more than paranormal fans (if one had to choose), though you will get dragons, witches, demons, and fae, along with a dose of other paranormal characters. I'm not sure how small the small town of Everwood Lake really is (it reads more like a midsized suburban city), but it's complete with the quirky residents and charming shops common in cozy Romancelandia.
So Asher is a fire fae (Ash, get it?), able to absorb and create fire, making him a good match for Gwyn's wounded dragon, whom he meets while walking with his dog one night. I personally didn't feel all that much chemistry, though they slid into a cleanly expressed boyfriend/girlfriend relationship pretty much instantly. The romance is secondary to the string of paranormally created arson fires that have been plaguing the town ever since Ash started working there as an interim fire chief. The author does a good job throwing red herrings at us, though I had my suspicions pretty early on (I'm a bit of a savant in that way). The dialog is laced with snappy humor that felt a bit distracting to me; I adore humor but not when it starts to feel schticky. The dialog here at times skirted the line.
Several future books in the series are teased, which will delight those who enjoyed this one. I may very well be one of those persons. Lucien and Isobel? Bring it on.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
So Asher is a fire fae (Ash, get it?), able to absorb and create fire, making him a good match for Gwyn's wounded dragon, whom he meets while walking with his dog one night. I personally didn't feel all that much chemistry, though they slid into a cleanly expressed boyfriend/girlfriend relationship pretty much instantly. The romance is secondary to the string of paranormally created arson fires that have been plaguing the town ever since Ash started working there as an interim fire chief. The author does a good job throwing red herrings at us, though I had my suspicions pretty early on (I'm a bit of a savant in that way). The dialog is laced with snappy humor that felt a bit distracting to me; I adore humor but not when it starts to feel schticky. The dialog here at times skirted the line.
Several future books in the series are teased, which will delight those who enjoyed this one. I may very well be one of those persons. Lucien and Isobel? Bring it on.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
April 5, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh this was the cozy paranormal mystery romance I needed! This was a lovely story to sink into with a believable contemporary fantasy world I needed. The magic town definitely gave me some Eureka vibes (does anyone else remember that TV show!?) Also, making the female the dragon? Love it!
Ash is a solid, comforting male lead in this book being targeted by an arsonist who possibly infected his magic.
Gwyn doesn't need a hero, she needs a bolthole. Driven into hiding, injured and unable to fly, someone seems to have followed her to Everwood.
Fair warning - this book will make you hungry!
I did really enjoy this book, it was a nice cosy read, there is not a massive amount of depth to the mystery but there is enough meat to the book that you can easily sink into the story. So many types of paranormals though so could have done with a glossary of the different characters!! Sometimes I forgot which power the character on the page had.
Oh this was the cozy paranormal mystery romance I needed! This was a lovely story to sink into with a believable contemporary fantasy world I needed. The magic town definitely gave me some Eureka vibes (does anyone else remember that TV show!?) Also, making the female the dragon? Love it!
Ash is a solid, comforting male lead in this book being targeted by an arsonist who possibly infected his magic.
Gwyn doesn't need a hero, she needs a bolthole. Driven into hiding, injured and unable to fly, someone seems to have followed her to Everwood.
Fair warning - this book will make you hungry!
I did really enjoy this book, it was a nice cosy read, there is not a massive amount of depth to the mystery but there is enough meat to the book that you can easily sink into the story. So many types of paranormals though so could have done with a glossary of the different characters!! Sometimes I forgot which power the character on the page had.
April 3, 2023
A woman afraid of her gift of fire combined with a guy gifted with ice. Now that is an unlikely pairing or is it.
Do they get over their fears? Will they find love together when they are totally opposite regarding their gifts?
I could give you those answers but I'm not. what's going to engage your curiosity and the need to find those answers. And the most important is how will you get those warm fuzzies their romance can bring.
I will tell you it will be worth your while because it gave me a blissful few hours in which to forget my lonely heart and physical obstacles I'm trying to overcome. That my fellow romance fans is a well written story. A slow burn to warm this icy heart, yes puns are intended.
Do they get over their fears? Will they find love together when they are totally opposite regarding their gifts?
I could give you those answers but I'm not. what's going to engage your curiosity and the need to find those answers. And the most important is how will you get those warm fuzzies their romance can bring.
I will tell you it will be worth your while because it gave me a blissful few hours in which to forget my lonely heart and physical obstacles I'm trying to overcome. That my fellow romance fans is a well written story. A slow burn to warm this icy heart, yes puns are intended.
May 30, 2023
Asher Heath is part fae and part human, gifted with extraordinary fire magic - but when he tried to fight one particularly large blaze, he failed and has been haunted by that day ever since. It doesn't help that suspicious fires keep following him. He's not the only one being hunted - Gwyn Drake is a dragon shifter with her own troubles. It's a good thing fire and dragons are an excellent combo.
Light My Pyre is a cosy small-town paranormal romance and this is an excellent combo itself. And I just love that title! I really enjoyed the mystery that Kinney gave us - and obviously my favourite character was Daisy the Wolfhound, who is such a scene stealer. But I was a little disappointed that we didn't really get to see Asher and Gwyn properly fall for each other.
Light My Pyre is a cosy small-town paranormal romance and this is an excellent combo itself. And I just love that title! I really enjoyed the mystery that Kinney gave us - and obviously my favourite character was Daisy the Wolfhound, who is such a scene stealer. But I was a little disappointed that we didn't really get to see Asher and Gwyn properly fall for each other.
April 17, 2023
Where to begin with this review? Never did I think I needed a cosy dragon romance in my life, but now I've read it, I want more! The description of Everwood Falls was so lovely! It had me wanting to move there and munch on cinnamon buns all day long. I'll be honest, Daisy was my favourite character. Who couldn't love her?! But Asher and Gwyneth were close seconds. Actually, I loved all the characters. The author really hit the right notes for a cosy read, which had me feeling as though the characters were all my friends.
Despite the cosiness and delightful characters, there was a great mysterious plot. It kept me guessing until the multiple twists at the end!
A fantastic story and all that's left to say is when will book 2 be out?
Despite the cosiness and delightful characters, there was a great mysterious plot. It kept me guessing until the multiple twists at the end!
A fantastic story and all that's left to say is when will book 2 be out?
July 30, 2024
Wonderful book
Light Your Pyre by Kat Kinney is a wonderfully written, engaging, and vivid tale set in the enchanting supernatural haven of Everwood Falls. The story follows Asher Heath, a fae prince and firefighter, and Gwyneth Drake, a formidable dragon shifter. Together, they face a demon-driven arsonist threatening their community. With a cast of quirky characters and a beautifully crafted world, this book is an absolute delight.
Light Your Pyre by Kat Kinney is a wonderfully written, engaging, and vivid tale set in the enchanting supernatural haven of Everwood Falls. The story follows Asher Heath, a fae prince and firefighter, and Gwyneth Drake, a formidable dragon shifter. Together, they face a demon-driven arsonist threatening their community. With a cast of quirky characters and a beautifully crafted world, this book is an absolute delight.
April 25, 2025
Light My Pyre is the third book I've read by this author and I just can't get enough!
I wasn't sure what to expect with Everwood Falls, but I loved the world-building with this magical community. Paranormal misfits who all live and coexist together in a hidden town in Colorado, hiding from the "normal" human world (the Mundanes). I was immediately drawn to the two MCs when they meet out in the forest and fight - WITH FIRE, NO LESS - over the sweetest dog ever! Gwyn is a dragon and Asher is a fire wielding Fae, so sparks definitely fly between them. You will fall in love, not only with the MCs, but with all their friends as well. I can't wait to dive into book 2!
I wasn't sure what to expect with Everwood Falls, but I loved the world-building with this magical community. Paranormal misfits who all live and coexist together in a hidden town in Colorado, hiding from the "normal" human world (the Mundanes). I was immediately drawn to the two MCs when they meet out in the forest and fight - WITH FIRE, NO LESS - over the sweetest dog ever! Gwyn is a dragon and Asher is a fire wielding Fae, so sparks definitely fly between them. You will fall in love, not only with the MCs, but with all their friends as well. I can't wait to dive into book 2!
April 12, 2023
Oh my I loved this story I am so glad to have read the first in the series. The hard part will be the wait for the next book.
I loved the characters and the community spirit.
Oh and I can't forget to mention Daisy who even brought a tear to my eye.
A cosy fantasy with a happy ending I couldn't ask for more.
This is one of those books I will probably be buying in paperback once the whole series is out.
I loved the characters and the community spirit.
Oh and I can't forget to mention Daisy who even brought a tear to my eye.
A cosy fantasy with a happy ending I couldn't ask for more.
This is one of those books I will probably be buying in paperback once the whole series is out.
June 15, 2023
Light My Pyre is a cosy romance story set in Everwood Falls, a town full of supernatural beings.
The two main characters, fae prince Asher, and dragon shifter Gwyn, are both very likeable. Both main characters are escaping trauma, with Gwyn escaping an abusive relationship. The supporting cast includes demons, witches, werewolves, and others, and worked well, although at times I did lose track of all the different people.
The mystery element centres around trying to discover who is lighting fires in Everwood Falls. With dragons and class-one fire wielders roaming around, it’s a difficult challenge.
I enjoyed the fantasy elements, Everwood Falls is very well drawn out with plenty of details that allow you to picture the place, and fun elements like carnivorous trees and enchanted elks. My favourite character was Daisy, the sock-eating Irish wolfhound.
Overall, an enjoyable read that is likely to appeal to romance, fantasy, and mystery readers.
The two main characters, fae prince Asher, and dragon shifter Gwyn, are both very likeable. Both main characters are escaping trauma, with Gwyn escaping an abusive relationship. The supporting cast includes demons, witches, werewolves, and others, and worked well, although at times I did lose track of all the different people.
The mystery element centres around trying to discover who is lighting fires in Everwood Falls. With dragons and class-one fire wielders roaming around, it’s a difficult challenge.
I enjoyed the fantasy elements, Everwood Falls is very well drawn out with plenty of details that allow you to picture the place, and fun elements like carnivorous trees and enchanted elks. My favourite character was Daisy, the sock-eating Irish wolfhound.
Overall, an enjoyable read that is likely to appeal to romance, fantasy, and mystery readers.
April 20, 2023
A lovely, cosy, paranormal romance, urban fantasy book, that really surprised me with how much I enjoyed it. A great new universe with seemingly every supernatural creature in existence resides, with engaging characters to follow through the series. I’ll definitely will be revisiting this universe often!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 8, 2023
I feel the need by saying that I hate the cold. Having lived in Maine for over half my life I have grown to dislike winter, snow and the cold. That being said I would happily move to Everwood Falls and spend the rest of my life there. That's how much I fell in love with this quaint, magical town.
This story quickly had me hooked and I kept reading just to find out what would happen next. Not only was the story great but so were the characters. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Asher and Gwyn's, which I thought was well written. The rest of the characters we were introduced to were also fun and I can't wait to learn more about them in future books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story quickly had me hooked and I kept reading just to find out what would happen next. Not only was the story great but so were the characters. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Asher and Gwyn's, which I thought was well written. The rest of the characters we were introduced to were also fun and I can't wait to learn more about them in future books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
I just looked at the page count for this book, and I was honestly surprised it's over 500 pages long as it did not read like a 500+ page book to me. Anyway, let's dive right in, shall we?
POV: Third person
POV Character(s): Asher, Gwyn
Verb Tense: past
Trigger Warnings: mentions of past physical/verbal abuse, running from an abusive home, death, fires
Spice Level: low, a couple mentions of kisses mostly? I can't even remember if there were actual explicit scenes
So I rated this one three stars, and I'll be straight and say it's because I felt there were parts that just didn't jive for me. It's not to say the plot isn't interesting; it's a decent plot for a paranormal romance, and it didn't just focus on the romance but gave us more than that going into it, which was nice. I liked that the story wasn't just "guy meets fiery girl, fiery girl nearly flambes him in an effort to protect the dog she's met in the woods, guy falls for fiery girl, they have an HEA." In fact, I appreciated that Kinney kind of twisted the trope of the big, strong guy rescuing the damsel into the opposite, considering our FMC, Gwyn, is a very tall dragon shifter who's physically strong, eats like she's starving, and takes care of herself.
My problems were mild but enough to leave me scratching my head at times. I had some moments where things were stated, and then the plot moved on, leaving me wondering how I'd missed some event that would explain why these statements were made. Vague enough for you? Well, feel free to click the spoiler for an example.
That complaint aside, I did find myself bored at times. It wasn't that the story was boring; it just felt very... lilting. And normally I don't mind a slower plot, but I found myself wishing we could get to the point where we learned if Gwyn's dangerous ex was involved in any of the arson attacks Asher had been fighting against.
And see? There was definitely plot throughout. Asher's a fae firefighter whose main power is, clearly, the ability to control fire. He's slowly recovering from a horrible forest fire gone wrong where he blacked out and woke up to learn some of his crew were injured and one died. Since the human team assumed he died as well, he's moved to small-town magical community Colorado, where a little town of magical folks is filled with those who can't be let out in the greater human society for fear of the humans learning of the existence of magic. Those with uncontrollable powers or strange curses are all living together in this little town, and Asher is the new interim fire chief.
Meanwhile we meet Gwyn, a dragon shifter with a secret past she's trying to escape, who happens to be unable to fly after having had her dragon burned by another dragon. She's living in this tiny town, and we don't really know how long she's been there. She keeps herself set apart from the other folks and doesn't want to get too close to anyone besides her friend, Sage, a green witch who's letting her stay in her home. Gwyn is taller than average, and after shifting into her dragon form and using her magic, her appetite is enormous; she's really my kind of woman with her love of delicious food. She's hiding out from both her family and the man who attacked her, and she has no time or interest in getting to know Asher, even if he is cute and has the sweetest wolfhound.
The story had good character development, and I liked the supporting cast of characters. They all felt pretty well-rounded. And there was a great twist in the end with the final villain reveal, the puppet master who followed Asher with arson attacks across the town he's hoping to recover in.
I think the only other critique I had, which is admittedly small, is how unearned some of the character motivations felt for Asher and Gwyn. Both of them sound like they've only been in town a short time--Asher longer than Gwyn--and shouldn't have such a close connection to the town so quickly. Sure, you can fall in love with a place pretty fast, and I won't argue that, but some of the ways they described how they felt about this little town made it sound as if they'd been there far longer than the text implied, and that was where I found myself side-eyeing the book a bit.
Overall, the book was pretty fun and not a super difficult read. I liked the plot. I just had a couple quibbles with some of the details and found myself wanting to simply be done at times. Thus, the three star rating.
POV: Third person
POV Character(s): Asher, Gwyn
Verb Tense: past
Trigger Warnings: mentions of past physical/verbal abuse, running from an abusive home, death, fires
Spice Level: low, a couple mentions of kisses mostly? I can't even remember if there were actual explicit scenes
So I rated this one three stars, and I'll be straight and say it's because I felt there were parts that just didn't jive for me. It's not to say the plot isn't interesting; it's a decent plot for a paranormal romance, and it didn't just focus on the romance but gave us more than that going into it, which was nice. I liked that the story wasn't just "guy meets fiery girl, fiery girl nearly flambes him in an effort to protect the dog she's met in the woods, guy falls for fiery girl, they have an HEA." In fact, I appreciated that Kinney kind of twisted the trope of the big, strong guy rescuing the damsel into the opposite, considering our FMC, Gwyn, is a very tall dragon shifter who's physically strong, eats like she's starving, and takes care of herself.
My problems were mild but enough to leave me scratching my head at times. I had some moments where things were stated, and then the plot moved on, leaving me wondering how I'd missed some event that would explain why these statements were made. Vague enough for you? Well, feel free to click the spoiler for an example.
That complaint aside, I did find myself bored at times. It wasn't that the story was boring; it just felt very... lilting. And normally I don't mind a slower plot, but I found myself wishing we could get to the point where we learned if Gwyn's dangerous ex was involved in any of the arson attacks Asher had been fighting against.
And see? There was definitely plot throughout. Asher's a fae firefighter whose main power is, clearly, the ability to control fire. He's slowly recovering from a horrible forest fire gone wrong where he blacked out and woke up to learn some of his crew were injured and one died. Since the human team assumed he died as well, he's moved to small-town magical community Colorado, where a little town of magical folks is filled with those who can't be let out in the greater human society for fear of the humans learning of the existence of magic. Those with uncontrollable powers or strange curses are all living together in this little town, and Asher is the new interim fire chief.
Meanwhile we meet Gwyn, a dragon shifter with a secret past she's trying to escape, who happens to be unable to fly after having had her dragon burned by another dragon. She's living in this tiny town, and we don't really know how long she's been there. She keeps herself set apart from the other folks and doesn't want to get too close to anyone besides her friend, Sage, a green witch who's letting her stay in her home. Gwyn is taller than average, and after shifting into her dragon form and using her magic, her appetite is enormous; she's really my kind of woman with her love of delicious food. She's hiding out from both her family and the man who attacked her, and she has no time or interest in getting to know Asher, even if he is cute and has the sweetest wolfhound.
The story had good character development, and I liked the supporting cast of characters. They all felt pretty well-rounded. And there was a great twist in the end with the final villain reveal, the puppet master who followed Asher with arson attacks across the town he's hoping to recover in.
I think the only other critique I had, which is admittedly small, is how unearned some of the character motivations felt for Asher and Gwyn. Both of them sound like they've only been in town a short time--Asher longer than Gwyn--and shouldn't have such a close connection to the town so quickly. Sure, you can fall in love with a place pretty fast, and I won't argue that, but some of the ways they described how they felt about this little town made it sound as if they'd been there far longer than the text implied, and that was where I found myself side-eyeing the book a bit.
Overall, the book was pretty fun and not a super difficult read. I liked the plot. I just had a couple quibbles with some of the details and found myself wanting to simply be done at times. Thus, the three star rating.
March 3, 2023
Before I start in with the review, one quick spoiler, which will be very important for the people who need it and inconsequential for the people who don't. Pet imperilment/death spoilers under the cut:
Anyway, now that that's out of the way, this was a sweet, cozy small town urban fantasy romance, and for the most part was a gently atmospheric read. The book is set in a cute little town with Stardew-Valley-meets-low-stakes ASMR series vibes, where everyone is a magical being of some sort, most of the businesses have punny names, and all the food is delicious. The story starts in autumn a little bit before Halloween, and ends in early winter, with characters settling in on a snowy day to watch a Christmas movie.
It's not all low-stakes, though. Everwood Falls is also a refuge for people who don't want to or can't live in the human world -- and, to some extent, a low-security prison for well-behaved magical people who can't control their magic for whatever reason.
The hero, Asher, is half human and half fae, with elemental fire powers. Now he's the interim fire chief, but he was sent to Everwood Falls after he failed to control a disastrous forest fire that killed one of his human team, and left them thinking he and his cousin were dead. It's become clear over the last few months that there was a magical arsonist behind the fires -- someone who's followed him to Everwood Falls, and has committed a series of disturbing arsons which are being committed by mind-controlled fire magic users.
The heroine, Gwyneth Drake, is a dragon shifter; she's on the run from the marriage arranged for her by her parents. The dragon community is mistrusted in the magical world due to their destructive abilities, and stereotyped as big dumb jerks with short tempers; as a consequence they're very insular and traditional, discouraging intermarriage with other non-dragon groups. And Gwyneth was willing to go along with the arranged marriage, even though there was no chemistry there -- only her fiance started to get weird and clingy and controlling. Eventually things escalated, and she narrowly escaped him, but not without sustaining a terrible wound to her wing and grounding her indefinitely. She's hiding from him in Everwood Falls, and worse, her parents have taken her fiance's side, so she's hiding from them too.
I will be honest, I did not find the chemistry between Asher and Gwyneth to be super compelling. It wasn't actively bad or anything; they are sweet together and I believe they care about each other, but I'm not sure how they went from flirty teasing to definitely dating to spending their lives together. I did really enjoy the familial relationships in this book, and the friendships, I guess I just think the romance itself could've gotten a little more oomph. That said, a lot of what I enjoy about fantasy romance and mystery romance is high-stakes situations with a guaranteed happy ending, so the book's mixture of magical crises and cozy autumnal outings worked really well for me, and I found the arson and stalking plotlines' resolution to be very satisfying.
I also really appreciated that Gwyneth was intimidating -- one of the things that drew me to the book was that the heroine seemed like the more "monstrous"/dangerous in terms of magical power, and I wasn't disappointed on that at all. Asher sees her as a dragon first, and even as she is menacing him he thinks she's beautiful. She is traumatized and skittish and cagey, sometimes to her detriment, but she is also brave and stands up for herself and is protective of those she cares for (and also random dogs she meets in the forest, very valid, love that for her) and can be scary when necessary, and I really enjoy that kind of heroine.
If I had one other criticism it would be that there's a lot of asides explaining magical intracommunity issues, which as a worldbuilding enthusiast I was fine with, but the discussion of stigma facing dragons and demons got a little repetitive. It didn't actually slow the book down, though, which is kind of impressive; it's a fast-paced book that's very readable. It definitely made my laundry day go faster.
I received this book for free as an ARC (it comes out this April!) and all opinions are my own honest thoughts on the book.
Anyway, now that that's out of the way, this was a sweet, cozy small town urban fantasy romance, and for the most part was a gently atmospheric read. The book is set in a cute little town with Stardew-Valley-meets-low-stakes ASMR series vibes, where everyone is a magical being of some sort, most of the businesses have punny names, and all the food is delicious. The story starts in autumn a little bit before Halloween, and ends in early winter, with characters settling in on a snowy day to watch a Christmas movie.
It's not all low-stakes, though. Everwood Falls is also a refuge for people who don't want to or can't live in the human world -- and, to some extent, a low-security prison for well-behaved magical people who can't control their magic for whatever reason.
The hero, Asher, is half human and half fae, with elemental fire powers. Now he's the interim fire chief, but he was sent to Everwood Falls after he failed to control a disastrous forest fire that killed one of his human team, and left them thinking he and his cousin were dead. It's become clear over the last few months that there was a magical arsonist behind the fires -- someone who's followed him to Everwood Falls, and has committed a series of disturbing arsons which are being committed by mind-controlled fire magic users.
The heroine, Gwyneth Drake, is a dragon shifter; she's on the run from the marriage arranged for her by her parents. The dragon community is mistrusted in the magical world due to their destructive abilities, and stereotyped as big dumb jerks with short tempers; as a consequence they're very insular and traditional, discouraging intermarriage with other non-dragon groups. And Gwyneth was willing to go along with the arranged marriage, even though there was no chemistry there -- only her fiance started to get weird and clingy and controlling. Eventually things escalated, and she narrowly escaped him, but not without sustaining a terrible wound to her wing and grounding her indefinitely. She's hiding from him in Everwood Falls, and worse, her parents have taken her fiance's side, so she's hiding from them too.
I will be honest, I did not find the chemistry between Asher and Gwyneth to be super compelling. It wasn't actively bad or anything; they are sweet together and I believe they care about each other, but I'm not sure how they went from flirty teasing to definitely dating to spending their lives together. I did really enjoy the familial relationships in this book, and the friendships, I guess I just think the romance itself could've gotten a little more oomph. That said, a lot of what I enjoy about fantasy romance and mystery romance is high-stakes situations with a guaranteed happy ending, so the book's mixture of magical crises and cozy autumnal outings worked really well for me, and I found the arson and stalking plotlines' resolution to be very satisfying.
I also really appreciated that Gwyneth was intimidating -- one of the things that drew me to the book was that the heroine seemed like the more "monstrous"/dangerous in terms of magical power, and I wasn't disappointed on that at all. Asher sees her as a dragon first, and even as she is menacing him he thinks she's beautiful. She is traumatized and skittish and cagey, sometimes to her detriment, but she is also brave and stands up for herself and is protective of those she cares for (and also random dogs she meets in the forest, very valid, love that for her) and can be scary when necessary, and I really enjoy that kind of heroine.
If I had one other criticism it would be that there's a lot of asides explaining magical intracommunity issues, which as a worldbuilding enthusiast I was fine with, but the discussion of stigma facing dragons and demons got a little repetitive. It didn't actually slow the book down, though, which is kind of impressive; it's a fast-paced book that's very readable. It definitely made my laundry day go faster.
I received this book for free as an ARC (it comes out this April!) and all opinions are my own honest thoughts on the book.
November 30, 2025
Potentially offensive items: racism against supernatural groups, adult situations, homosexuality, alcohol, violence, domestic violence, violence against women, (attempted) murder, lying, dysfunctional family, supernatural powers, divination
After reading the two books of the Dyrwolf series, I was looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, it was disappointing. Asher is a forest firefighter and fire fae who usually controls the fire to help put it out. The problem is that a demonic firestarter seems to be following him. He stumbles across a dragon fleeing an abusive relationship, and he awkwardly starts a relationship with her.
Like the other books by Kat Kinney, Light My Pyre has repetitiveness (such as hearing the dog eats only one sock from each pair) and the long descriptions that slow the story down. Here we get to hear minute details about what everyone is eating and about alpaca care. At the same time, the romance appears out of nowhere and seems to be secondary to the plot. I did not feel like they were really a couple—it was more like they were going through the motions of being a couple. I also thought it was weird that she was in an abusive relationship and was technically still betrothed (or even married, I wasn’t quite clear on what stage the relationship had achieved), but she jumped into dating Asher. Personally, if my husband burned me so badly I could no longer walk while I was escaping him, I don’t think I would be kissing someone else any time soon.
Unlike the other books by Kat Kinney that I have read, this one just didn’t make sense in so many ways. Gwyn (or Rachel or Gwyneth or Guinevere) not only has numerous names, but the excuse for having two last names—that dragons don’t take the name of their spouses so children get two last names—doesn’t work—the fourth generation would have six last names and two more would be added with each generation. In addition, the premise of a female dragon fleeing her abusive betrothed didn’t work because too many incompatible details kept piling on that didn’t add up. She starts in her car, ends up as a dragon fleeing him in the air from Kansas City; he burns her to the point she can no longer fly, and she lands in a lake to put it out; then apparently, he does not chase her any longer, and later she ends up in Everwood Falls, Colorado. She has a friend there, but her betrothed and parents don’t know this despite their possessiveness. Or consider that the dragons are a dying race so all marriages must be arranged, but her brother’s arranged marriage is to another male dragon, and they have to have a surrogate to have a kid!! The ending was ridiculously contrived. The bad guy jumped through a lot of hoops so everything could be tied up neatly—except it wasn’t really tied up. It left me with more of a "Huh?" feeling.
After reading the two books of the Dyrwolf series, I was looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, it was disappointing. Asher is a forest firefighter and fire fae who usually controls the fire to help put it out. The problem is that a demonic firestarter seems to be following him. He stumbles across a dragon fleeing an abusive relationship, and he awkwardly starts a relationship with her.
Like the other books by Kat Kinney, Light My Pyre has repetitiveness (such as hearing the dog eats only one sock from each pair) and the long descriptions that slow the story down. Here we get to hear minute details about what everyone is eating and about alpaca care. At the same time, the romance appears out of nowhere and seems to be secondary to the plot. I did not feel like they were really a couple—it was more like they were going through the motions of being a couple. I also thought it was weird that she was in an abusive relationship and was technically still betrothed (or even married, I wasn’t quite clear on what stage the relationship had achieved), but she jumped into dating Asher. Personally, if my husband burned me so badly I could no longer walk while I was escaping him, I don’t think I would be kissing someone else any time soon.
Unlike the other books by Kat Kinney that I have read, this one just didn’t make sense in so many ways. Gwyn (or Rachel or Gwyneth or Guinevere) not only has numerous names, but the excuse for having two last names—that dragons don’t take the name of their spouses so children get two last names—doesn’t work—the fourth generation would have six last names and two more would be added with each generation. In addition, the premise of a female dragon fleeing her abusive betrothed didn’t work because too many incompatible details kept piling on that didn’t add up. She starts in her car, ends up as a dragon fleeing him in the air from Kansas City; he burns her to the point she can no longer fly, and she lands in a lake to put it out; then apparently, he does not chase her any longer, and later she ends up in Everwood Falls, Colorado. She has a friend there, but her betrothed and parents don’t know this despite their possessiveness. Or consider that the dragons are a dying race so all marriages must be arranged, but her brother’s arranged marriage is to another male dragon, and they have to have a surrogate to have a kid!! The ending was ridiculously contrived. The bad guy jumped through a lot of hoops so everything could be tied up neatly—except it wasn’t really tied up. It left me with more of a "Huh?" feeling.
May 31, 2023
Absolutely Fantastic Story
by Barbara Kelley
"Light My Pyre" is Book 1 of the Everwood Falls Fantasy Romance and Mystery series, written by Kat Kinney. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. This book takes place in a small hidden Colorado mountain town of Everwood Falls, a town where most of its residents are paranormal shifters, members of the Fae community, Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, and actually normal non-paranormal individuals, all living together. Supposedly, other members of the Colorado population don't know about this little town of extraordinary beings. This first novel focuses on three characters: Asher, Gwyn, and Daisy. What is a of Fae heritage, supposedly around 30 years of age. One of his parents is Fae, one is a Mundane (Human). Consider Mundanes just like you would Muggles in the Harry Potter series. Asher is a powerful half-blood with the ability to absorb huge amounts of fire, a really good-looking, sandy-haired, light blue-eyed hunk, who is not quite 6 feet tall. Even though he is a powerful fire squelcher,, his ability can be overwhelming when a gigantic fire is set by arsonists. He is a paranormal firefighter who lost his human firefighting partner a couple of years ago. He is still friends with Wyatt, the human brother of the firefighting partner. Gwyn is a beautiful woman over 6 foot tall, with red hair and green eyes, who shifts into a 20 foot tall red female dragon named Guinivere, and her human form has a hankering love for Chicken Fried Steaks and Apple Cider Donuts. Gwyn is running from both her parents, as well as from a powerfully mean dragon named Taurus, who her father wants her to marry. However, Gwyn doesn't like Taurus, and when she said this, he burned her wing so that she'll never be able to fly again. She's hiding out in Everwood Falls, Colorado, and only a few people know who and what she is. Daisy is Asher's dog, who was originally his firefighter partner's dog before he died. Daisy is a large dog who loves to stalk and then eat only one sock from every single pair if socks in Asher's sock drawer. If she doesn't get a special treat from each of the wonderful bakeries or cafes in town, she might decide to eat the remaining socks. These are the three main characters, but there are several other characters, such as Norah, Bryce, Lucien, Wyatt, and Sage, that future books could be written. This was an excellent, dramatic, as well as laugh out loud funny novel about a firefighter Fae and a dog named Daisy, helping, protecting, and falling in love with a sweet, gentle dragonshifter. I gave this book a 5 star rating.
I received a copy to read, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
by Barbara Kelley
"Light My Pyre" is Book 1 of the Everwood Falls Fantasy Romance and Mystery series, written by Kat Kinney. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. This book takes place in a small hidden Colorado mountain town of Everwood Falls, a town where most of its residents are paranormal shifters, members of the Fae community, Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, and actually normal non-paranormal individuals, all living together. Supposedly, other members of the Colorado population don't know about this little town of extraordinary beings. This first novel focuses on three characters: Asher, Gwyn, and Daisy. What is a of Fae heritage, supposedly around 30 years of age. One of his parents is Fae, one is a Mundane (Human). Consider Mundanes just like you would Muggles in the Harry Potter series. Asher is a powerful half-blood with the ability to absorb huge amounts of fire, a really good-looking, sandy-haired, light blue-eyed hunk, who is not quite 6 feet tall. Even though he is a powerful fire squelcher,, his ability can be overwhelming when a gigantic fire is set by arsonists. He is a paranormal firefighter who lost his human firefighting partner a couple of years ago. He is still friends with Wyatt, the human brother of the firefighting partner. Gwyn is a beautiful woman over 6 foot tall, with red hair and green eyes, who shifts into a 20 foot tall red female dragon named Guinivere, and her human form has a hankering love for Chicken Fried Steaks and Apple Cider Donuts. Gwyn is running from both her parents, as well as from a powerfully mean dragon named Taurus, who her father wants her to marry. However, Gwyn doesn't like Taurus, and when she said this, he burned her wing so that she'll never be able to fly again. She's hiding out in Everwood Falls, Colorado, and only a few people know who and what she is. Daisy is Asher's dog, who was originally his firefighter partner's dog before he died. Daisy is a large dog who loves to stalk and then eat only one sock from every single pair if socks in Asher's sock drawer. If she doesn't get a special treat from each of the wonderful bakeries or cafes in town, she might decide to eat the remaining socks. These are the three main characters, but there are several other characters, such as Norah, Bryce, Lucien, Wyatt, and Sage, that future books could be written. This was an excellent, dramatic, as well as laugh out loud funny novel about a firefighter Fae and a dog named Daisy, helping, protecting, and falling in love with a sweet, gentle dragonshifter. I gave this book a 5 star rating.
I received a copy to read, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
April 11, 2023
Interesting characters, great world building, engaging plot
This is a new-to-me author, and though I haven’t read much in the cozy mystery genre, the blurb for this book caught my attention, and I’m very glad I gave it a read.
I’ve been reading fantasy almost exclusively since the start of the pandemic (what can I say; I like the escape fantasy offers), and I really like the mix of magic and tech, as well as the relatable real world problems mixed with fantasy elements I found here. While I can’t comment on how well this fits the “cozy mystery” parameters, I have been reading fantasy of all kinds since I was a teenager (long, LONG, ago, lol), as well as various romance genres, with the odd sprinkling of mystery/suspense books, and I found the world building and setting to be wonderfully crafted, leaving plenty of room for a large variety of characters and stories.
The plot itself was well paced, keeping me engaged with plenty of action, and guessing as it twisted. There was also an enticing array of interesting characters. Most of the stories I’ve read where one of the lead characters is Fae have been placed mostly in the world of the Fae, so this was a nice change. I’m also used to the Fae being characterized as remote, often cruel, so I found the way Asher cared not only refreshing, but sometimes touching.
In fact, I thought the author did a great job making me feel like I was really there in that small Colorado town, in the human world, but hidden, filled with all types of magic users, many of them misfits who are unable to live among “Mundanes”. I loved the humorous touches, like elk with enchanted glowing antlers because the werewolves wanted to make them easier to hunt, and, as a dog lover, Daisy the sock stalking and frequently disobedient Irish Wolfhound was a particular favorite.
While this book came to completely satisfactory conclusion (it absolutely can be read as a standalone), the setup for the next books was intriguing without being intrusive. I want to know more about where the stories for all those great secondary characters are going to go without being frustrated at being left with too many questions, so I’m absolutely planning on reading the next book in the series. I’ll also be exploring the author’s backlist.
One of my favorite reads so far for the year. 5 stars
This is a new-to-me author, and though I haven’t read much in the cozy mystery genre, the blurb for this book caught my attention, and I’m very glad I gave it a read.
I’ve been reading fantasy almost exclusively since the start of the pandemic (what can I say; I like the escape fantasy offers), and I really like the mix of magic and tech, as well as the relatable real world problems mixed with fantasy elements I found here. While I can’t comment on how well this fits the “cozy mystery” parameters, I have been reading fantasy of all kinds since I was a teenager (long, LONG, ago, lol), as well as various romance genres, with the odd sprinkling of mystery/suspense books, and I found the world building and setting to be wonderfully crafted, leaving plenty of room for a large variety of characters and stories.
The plot itself was well paced, keeping me engaged with plenty of action, and guessing as it twisted. There was also an enticing array of interesting characters. Most of the stories I’ve read where one of the lead characters is Fae have been placed mostly in the world of the Fae, so this was a nice change. I’m also used to the Fae being characterized as remote, often cruel, so I found the way Asher cared not only refreshing, but sometimes touching.
In fact, I thought the author did a great job making me feel like I was really there in that small Colorado town, in the human world, but hidden, filled with all types of magic users, many of them misfits who are unable to live among “Mundanes”. I loved the humorous touches, like elk with enchanted glowing antlers because the werewolves wanted to make them easier to hunt, and, as a dog lover, Daisy the sock stalking and frequently disobedient Irish Wolfhound was a particular favorite.
While this book came to completely satisfactory conclusion (it absolutely can be read as a standalone), the setup for the next books was intriguing without being intrusive. I want to know more about where the stories for all those great secondary characters are going to go without being frustrated at being left with too many questions, so I’m absolutely planning on reading the next book in the series. I’ll also be exploring the author’s backlist.
One of my favorite reads so far for the year. 5 stars
October 23, 2023
🐲🔥Ehh....They suddenly started talking like they're friends.
🐲🔥You create a fierce dragon h but choose her problems to be controlled by men and marriages? I don't know if it's supposed to be like that or not but she's like any other victims and it's kinda disappointing to me cause you're a freaking dragon girl! I know I'm stereotyping here but You should be a fighter! How she doesn't even know self defense? Why you're afraid to take a walk in the dark? Why your problem is your ex stalking you? Why make her a dragon?
🐲🔥Uhh... So she just blurt out her life story to Norah who she just met, "just" as in not even 5min. I thought it's supposed to be secret or something.
🐲🔥What is happening? When did she tell Asher about Taurus? Did Norah tell him? Are we skipping that part and just going with "ok he knows now"?
🐲🔥Ok apparently Gwyn also knows about his curse. When did they share their life stories? How could they do this off page?
🐲🔥Okay apparently everyone share their history without a question.
🐲🔥Except the world building and maybe the mystery everything else is on a speedtrain in this story. The author likes to describe fantasy parts not build and emotions. And we see only actions of the characters no explanation. Like when a scene changes we don't know where we are or what's happening, you just have to guess. Every scene feel unfinished. For example chapter 8 ends when Asher get a text from Ember saying something happened to grandma and calling him there urgently but next chapter starts as we see Asher, Gwyn and Norah visiting another arsoned place. Disorienting.
🐲🔥Yeah! Now that's what I'm talking about. Don't take any shit dragon girl!
🐲🔥You know I believe Phoenix when he said he's been discriminated. Whenever we got fae realm scenes grandma never asked about Phoenix nor Ember. I didn't even realize Phoenix is this close of a relative to them until that cafe discussion with Asher. I assumed he's some distanced cousin who worked with Asher and they bonded. So of course others wouldn't care about him like Asher. But they actually grew up together which is more sad cause how did they not notice?
🐲🔥I enjoyed this book especially the second half. It was quite disorganizing tho. I wouldn't dare reading Lucien's book. It'd be an amazing story without a doubt. But I also know it'll be depressing as hell.
🐲🔥You create a fierce dragon h but choose her problems to be controlled by men and marriages? I don't know if it's supposed to be like that or not but she's like any other victims and it's kinda disappointing to me cause you're a freaking dragon girl! I know I'm stereotyping here but You should be a fighter! How she doesn't even know self defense? Why you're afraid to take a walk in the dark? Why your problem is your ex stalking you? Why make her a dragon?
🐲🔥Uhh... So she just blurt out her life story to Norah who she just met, "just" as in not even 5min. I thought it's supposed to be secret or something.
🐲🔥What is happening? When did she tell Asher about Taurus? Did Norah tell him? Are we skipping that part and just going with "ok he knows now"?
🐲🔥Ok apparently Gwyn also knows about his curse. When did they share their life stories? How could they do this off page?
🐲🔥Okay apparently everyone share their history without a question.
🐲🔥Except the world building and maybe the mystery everything else is on a speedtrain in this story. The author likes to describe fantasy parts not build and emotions. And we see only actions of the characters no explanation. Like when a scene changes we don't know where we are or what's happening, you just have to guess. Every scene feel unfinished. For example chapter 8 ends when Asher get a text from Ember saying something happened to grandma and calling him there urgently but next chapter starts as we see Asher, Gwyn and Norah visiting another arsoned place. Disorienting.
🐲🔥Yeah! Now that's what I'm talking about. Don't take any shit dragon girl!
🐲🔥You know I believe Phoenix when he said he's been discriminated. Whenever we got fae realm scenes grandma never asked about Phoenix nor Ember. I didn't even realize Phoenix is this close of a relative to them until that cafe discussion with Asher. I assumed he's some distanced cousin who worked with Asher and they bonded. So of course others wouldn't care about him like Asher. But they actually grew up together which is more sad cause how did they not notice?
🐲🔥I enjoyed this book especially the second half. It was quite disorganizing tho. I wouldn't dare reading Lucien's book. It'd be an amazing story without a doubt. But I also know it'll be depressing as hell.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
Light My Pyre is a standalone paranormal/fantasy romance by Kat Kinney and is the fir book of the Everwood Falls series. The audiobook narration is performed by Monica Franklin. I've read the full series before and thoroughly enjoyed it (particularly book 2) and so when I needed something for my commute, I was definitely interested.
Look, I'm not going to lie, every time I see this book title I end up with Light My Fire by The Doors in my head, and was part of the motivation I why I ready the ebook in the first place. I'm shallow like that when it comes to books.
The book introduces us to the world of Everwood Falls. A small, enchanted town in a remote mountain location in the USA. It is where paranormal beings unable to control their beasts or their powers are sent so that they don't harm anyone or reveal their secrets to the humans. It is the town where Fae prince, Asher Heath, is sent when the half human/half fae fire wielder who lost control of his magic in a massive forest blaze.
Asher is a "halfling" and never felt he truly belonged, except in the human realm where he chose to become a firefighter. Now, he's been exiled, he's the acting fire chief of Everwood Falls, where he also inherits the previous chief's dog, a silly wolfhound called Daisy.
Gwyn Drake is a dragon. Dragon shifters are quite insular in that they really don't interact, and they definitely don't marry or have kids with, other species of shifter or humans. Gwyn fled her dragon clan when the man that her parents were arranging for her to marry very nearly gives her a fatal injury.
There is a mysterious fire bug in town and that person is bringing together the stories of both Gwyn and Asher, even as they find love.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I've read it before, so there was no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't. But it's always different when you read the book and listen to the audio book, something always changes a bit. So, in saying that, I have to admit that I didn't totally connect with the narration. While I enjoyed Franklin's interpretation of Asher's parts, I wasn't totally sold on Gwyn's parts of the book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Look, I'm not going to lie, every time I see this book title I end up with Light My Fire by The Doors in my head, and was part of the motivation I why I ready the ebook in the first place. I'm shallow like that when it comes to books.
The book introduces us to the world of Everwood Falls. A small, enchanted town in a remote mountain location in the USA. It is where paranormal beings unable to control their beasts or their powers are sent so that they don't harm anyone or reveal their secrets to the humans. It is the town where Fae prince, Asher Heath, is sent when the half human/half fae fire wielder who lost control of his magic in a massive forest blaze.
Asher is a "halfling" and never felt he truly belonged, except in the human realm where he chose to become a firefighter. Now, he's been exiled, he's the acting fire chief of Everwood Falls, where he also inherits the previous chief's dog, a silly wolfhound called Daisy.
Gwyn Drake is a dragon. Dragon shifters are quite insular in that they really don't interact, and they definitely don't marry or have kids with, other species of shifter or humans. Gwyn fled her dragon clan when the man that her parents were arranging for her to marry very nearly gives her a fatal injury.
There is a mysterious fire bug in town and that person is bringing together the stories of both Gwyn and Asher, even as they find love.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I've read it before, so there was no doubt in my mind that I wouldn't. But it's always different when you read the book and listen to the audio book, something always changes a bit. So, in saying that, I have to admit that I didn't totally connect with the narration. While I enjoyed Franklin's interpretation of Asher's parts, I wasn't totally sold on Gwyn's parts of the book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2024
It is autumn where I am, and I was looking for a light read that suited the season. I have read another of the author's books, Dyrwolf, and heard good things about Light My Pyre, so I decided to try it. I am glad I did as it was full of surprises. It is a fantasy romance and a cosy mystery, with plenty of banter and descriptions of delicious foods throughout.
I am not familiar with Colorado, so I wouldn't be able to tell fact from fiction when it comes to descriptions of the scenery, but Everwood Falls is a lovely, natural setting for a hidden town of supernatural beings. The whole place is one big found family. Most of those who go there are struggling to contain their powers, or are in hiding. It is a place of refuge.
Asher (the muscular man on the cover) is a class one firewielding fae, which serves him well as a fireman. He comes to Everwood Falls after an accident leaves him mistrustful of his powers. His love interest and fellow POV character, Gwyn, is a dragon shifter on the run from a bad situation at home. The story reads like a TV miniseries set in the world we know, and there are references to pop culture sprinkled throughout. Sparks of humour come from the interplay between the everyday and the magical.
Threading all the cosy scenes together is an ongoing investigation into instances of arson around the town. I had a great time trying to figure out who was behind the attacks, but the author remained one step ahead of me. Many plot threads were put forward and, impressively, each one was addressed. The things left unresolved by the end of the book feel intentional (and will probably be the subjects of future books). While Everwood falls remains our home base, we hear a lot about the fantastic realms beyond. Light my Pyre lays the foundation for a series that could take us in many new directions.
The story has a lot of heart. By that I mean it has a lot of Daisy. The lovable, sock-eating Irish Wolfhound steals every scene she's in. She has a way of looking for trouble, and I could not put the book down because I needed to know she would be safe.
Content warnings:
I am not familiar with Colorado, so I wouldn't be able to tell fact from fiction when it comes to descriptions of the scenery, but Everwood Falls is a lovely, natural setting for a hidden town of supernatural beings. The whole place is one big found family. Most of those who go there are struggling to contain their powers, or are in hiding. It is a place of refuge.
Asher (the muscular man on the cover) is a class one firewielding fae, which serves him well as a fireman. He comes to Everwood Falls after an accident leaves him mistrustful of his powers. His love interest and fellow POV character, Gwyn, is a dragon shifter on the run from a bad situation at home. The story reads like a TV miniseries set in the world we know, and there are references to pop culture sprinkled throughout. Sparks of humour come from the interplay between the everyday and the magical.
Threading all the cosy scenes together is an ongoing investigation into instances of arson around the town. I had a great time trying to figure out who was behind the attacks, but the author remained one step ahead of me. Many plot threads were put forward and, impressively, each one was addressed. The things left unresolved by the end of the book feel intentional (and will probably be the subjects of future books). While Everwood falls remains our home base, we hear a lot about the fantastic realms beyond. Light my Pyre lays the foundation for a series that could take us in many new directions.
The story has a lot of heart. By that I mean it has a lot of Daisy. The lovable, sock-eating Irish Wolfhound steals every scene she's in. She has a way of looking for trouble, and I could not put the book down because I needed to know she would be safe.
Content warnings:
February 28, 2023
Asher is a prince of the High Fae, but he lives in the human world. He feels pulled in both directions, spending time with his grandmother, - sister of the king - and time fighting fires in his small town of Everwood Falls.
Gwyn is a dragon shifter on the run, trying to escape her abusive fiance. She shows up in Asher's town and they feel an instant connection.
Someone has been lighting fires, committing arson in various places around town, and they seem to have followed Asher from his previous job as a fire jumper. As the arsons continue, a dragon is seen at one of the scenes, which worries Gwyn, who is trying to stay incognito. Will others in town assume it's her, if they find out she's a dragon?
With a town full of supernaturals, from witches to vampires to angels, can they solve the arsons before the town - and Asher - gets destroyed? Will Gwyn be able to stay, or will she have to keep evading her fiance?
There was so much to like about this book. Great world building, interesting characters, twists I never saw coming. I absolutely adored Daisy, the sock-eating Wolfhound. She is loyal and protective, and loved by all. Asher's sister and friends were so varied and unique, I would love to learn more about each of them. I hope the author plans to get into the lives of other Everwood Falls residents.
The story only lacked in the romance department for me. Here were two characters who were interested in each other. Then we skip to a few days later, and suddenly they're kissing. What happened in that time that wasn't written about? I needed more evidence in order to believe in the romance. It felt like a lot was skipped, or glossed over. It was also decidedly un-spicy, only a few sweet kisses here and there. I suspect the author wanted to focus on the time crunch in solving the arsons, but I think the story could have been fleshed out a little more, while still maintaining that intensity and sense of urgency.
*I received a digital ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily submitting my review.
Gwyn is a dragon shifter on the run, trying to escape her abusive fiance. She shows up in Asher's town and they feel an instant connection.
Someone has been lighting fires, committing arson in various places around town, and they seem to have followed Asher from his previous job as a fire jumper. As the arsons continue, a dragon is seen at one of the scenes, which worries Gwyn, who is trying to stay incognito. Will others in town assume it's her, if they find out she's a dragon?
With a town full of supernaturals, from witches to vampires to angels, can they solve the arsons before the town - and Asher - gets destroyed? Will Gwyn be able to stay, or will she have to keep evading her fiance?
There was so much to like about this book. Great world building, interesting characters, twists I never saw coming. I absolutely adored Daisy, the sock-eating Wolfhound. She is loyal and protective, and loved by all. Asher's sister and friends were so varied and unique, I would love to learn more about each of them. I hope the author plans to get into the lives of other Everwood Falls residents.
The story only lacked in the romance department for me. Here were two characters who were interested in each other. Then we skip to a few days later, and suddenly they're kissing. What happened in that time that wasn't written about? I needed more evidence in order to believe in the romance. It felt like a lot was skipped, or glossed over. It was also decidedly un-spicy, only a few sweet kisses here and there. I suspect the author wanted to focus on the time crunch in solving the arsons, but I think the story could have been fleshed out a little more, while still maintaining that intensity and sense of urgency.
*I received a digital ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily submitting my review.
April 19, 2023
This book was such an enjoyable read! I immediately connected with both Asher and Gwyn and wanted them to survive the dangers that came to Everwood Falls. Their sweet, romantic subplot was a nice addition to the larger storyline. I loved that Gwyn was a strong female character who not only needed no man’s help but served as a hero herself.
Except for its magical residents, enchanted forest surrounds, and magical elk, the setting for the story could be any small town with that warm, welcoming atmosphere. The camaraderie of the residents who mostly know and help one another, the community events, and the local shops' charm (no pun intended) all made for a very inviting feel. Despite the cold winters, I would love to live in a place like Everwood Falls.
While the plot was certainly intricate enough to hold my focus, Light My Pyre is an easy read with a classic “cozy” vibe. No scenes depict bloody battles or lurid love scenes on the page. Most of the action is character-based and that, for me, is what made the book so good. There’s a fair share of family drama filling the mid-ground throughout the story, too, which will likely strike a chord with many readers. The author also threw a few well-done twists into the tale that I did not see coming. Bravo!
There is a subtheme in the tale that focuses on discrimination, even racism, pointing out that most magical folk automatically jump to conclusions about dragon shifters or demons, and how that creates a gulf in understanding between the races—as true in Everwood Falls as it is in real life. The author’s handling of this sensitive topic was top-notch. While not preachy, she definitely points out how automatic assumptions about others can hurt both parties. I was glad to see that the characters in the book came to better understand this truth by the end of the story.
Thankfully, this is not the last we’ll see of Everwood Falls and its fine residents. The second book is in progress. I look forward to reading more from this author. Definitely recommended.
Except for its magical residents, enchanted forest surrounds, and magical elk, the setting for the story could be any small town with that warm, welcoming atmosphere. The camaraderie of the residents who mostly know and help one another, the community events, and the local shops' charm (no pun intended) all made for a very inviting feel. Despite the cold winters, I would love to live in a place like Everwood Falls.
While the plot was certainly intricate enough to hold my focus, Light My Pyre is an easy read with a classic “cozy” vibe. No scenes depict bloody battles or lurid love scenes on the page. Most of the action is character-based and that, for me, is what made the book so good. There’s a fair share of family drama filling the mid-ground throughout the story, too, which will likely strike a chord with many readers. The author also threw a few well-done twists into the tale that I did not see coming. Bravo!
There is a subtheme in the tale that focuses on discrimination, even racism, pointing out that most magical folk automatically jump to conclusions about dragon shifters or demons, and how that creates a gulf in understanding between the races—as true in Everwood Falls as it is in real life. The author’s handling of this sensitive topic was top-notch. While not preachy, she definitely points out how automatic assumptions about others can hurt both parties. I was glad to see that the characters in the book came to better understand this truth by the end of the story.
Thankfully, this is not the last we’ll see of Everwood Falls and its fine residents. The second book is in progress. I look forward to reading more from this author. Definitely recommended.
August 4, 2025
Light My Pyre: Everwood Falls Book 1 @katkinneywrites2
Narrated by Monica Franklin
Asher Heath, a prince of the fae High Court is caught between two worlds. The Faerie kingdom where his fire magic is unparalleled and the human realm town Everwood Falls where he works as a firefighter. Two months ago something happened and Asher sadly lost control of his magic, now his magic is poisoned by a demon curse and he can’t risk getting close to anyone.
Gwyneth Drake or just Gwyn isn’t looking for a prince to save her. Her twenty-foot fire breathing dragon form can do that just fine. Though she may be in hiding from her ex, he had tried to sear her dragon from the skies.
Quiet supernatural community Everwood Falls is no longer safe as an arsonist starts setting fires around town and whats worst is that dragon blood has been found at the latest spot. Will Asher and Gwyn be able to let love bloom and stop an arsonist, or will their pasts come back and separate them?
Kat has created and woven an intriguing story full of fire, mystery, passion, and love. This story has all the feels from the happy moments to moments I may have gotten as angry as the characters, to even some sad points where I was contemplating writing a very sad HOW Could YOU message. But in the end there is a HEA or mostly. This story does set up nicely for the next book which will follow characters we meet in this first one.
The Narrator Monica Franklin did a wonderful job making the entire cast feel like their own people. Her voice was enjoyable to listen to and not overly slow.
Now if you’d all excuse me I think I need to go Scorch some marshmallows.
Note regarding the authors books: Her Everwood Falls Series (Light My Pyre, Fallen & The Siren’s Cursed Kiss) is a no spice only kissing series, also her YA books (Dyrwolf & Darkwitch) are also no spice. She does have a Texas Shifters series that has spice, so just FYI if you go to read anything you are aware of the differences.
Narrated by Monica Franklin
Asher Heath, a prince of the fae High Court is caught between two worlds. The Faerie kingdom where his fire magic is unparalleled and the human realm town Everwood Falls where he works as a firefighter. Two months ago something happened and Asher sadly lost control of his magic, now his magic is poisoned by a demon curse and he can’t risk getting close to anyone.
Gwyneth Drake or just Gwyn isn’t looking for a prince to save her. Her twenty-foot fire breathing dragon form can do that just fine. Though she may be in hiding from her ex, he had tried to sear her dragon from the skies.
Quiet supernatural community Everwood Falls is no longer safe as an arsonist starts setting fires around town and whats worst is that dragon blood has been found at the latest spot. Will Asher and Gwyn be able to let love bloom and stop an arsonist, or will their pasts come back and separate them?
Kat has created and woven an intriguing story full of fire, mystery, passion, and love. This story has all the feels from the happy moments to moments I may have gotten as angry as the characters, to even some sad points where I was contemplating writing a very sad HOW Could YOU message. But in the end there is a HEA or mostly. This story does set up nicely for the next book which will follow characters we meet in this first one.
The Narrator Monica Franklin did a wonderful job making the entire cast feel like their own people. Her voice was enjoyable to listen to and not overly slow.
Now if you’d all excuse me I think I need to go Scorch some marshmallows.
Note regarding the authors books: Her Everwood Falls Series (Light My Pyre, Fallen & The Siren’s Cursed Kiss) is a no spice only kissing series, also her YA books (Dyrwolf & Darkwitch) are also no spice. She does have a Texas Shifters series that has spice, so just FYI if you go to read anything you are aware of the differences.
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