Breath of Fire

I started reading this series after it was recommended by CL Wilson (as I'm patiently waiting her next book) and fully loved both the first in the series (Promise of Fire) and this one. Cat and Griffen make an amazing team. I don't want to spoil it, but these were both books I found myself not being able to put down, glancing at the clock and cursing myself because it was after midnight. I will be eagerly waiting for the next to come out and the others to follow. Amazing job on your first couple of books!!

In book two of the Kingmaker series, BREATH OF FIRE, Cat and Griffin have many challenges ahead including navigating their passionately intense yet still developing relationship. And now, Cat has a family she cares deeply about and wants to protect. She has been less than forthcoming with her personal history and as happens with secrets, “the truth will out.” Griffin is none too pleased when he discovers the cataclysmic secrets Cat has been keeping from him. Cat’s true identity as the Harbinger of the world puts her and all those she loves in danger as she and Griffin embrace and follow their destines for a united Thalyria. They undertake quite the epic journey beset by magical trials and feats of bravery as well as engaging in a heroic contest in a rival province that will test all of team Beta Sinta’s strength and bravery. Cat’s heinous upbringing with an abominable mother, who is around causing major trouble, creates a big learning curve in her relationship with Griffin. His ability to love her despite all she has seen and done astounds Cat as she believed herself unworthy of the love now so deeply rooted in her soul. Their relationship gives this book tremendous heart that balances well with all of the fierce action of the story. They undertake, thanks in part to the whims and pleasure of the gods, breathtaking adventures and quests. The bond Cat and Griffin forge is strong and unbreakable; they work together as equals in their missions as Griffin tells her: “You are the shield and I am the sword. Together, we’ll forge a new world.” Even though Cat and Griffin go through some dark and difficult times, their conversations are imbued with fun and humor to lighten the load. Amanda Bouchet makes magic by skillfully combing elements of Greek mythology with the modern day sensibilities of the challenges a woman faces being a leader among men as she did in first in the series, PROMISE OF FIRE. Each tale has all the ingredients of an exciting read including action, adventure, and romance: the perfect trifecta for readers of this genre. The characters have a depth and a quality that makes reading this series a true pleasure. I like characters who, despite their fears, step out in bravery knowing full well they face the ultimate sacrifice which is the true meaning of courage. Cat and Griffin have a long way to go with many challenges to face and battles to fight, but there is joy in the journey because love is the greatest power of all to shed light on the darkness and overcome evil.

I really enjoyed the characters development. I think the story is good and can not wait for the last book to come out.

Buy this book! Yes, you, the one debating if it's worth it. It is. Buy the whole series and participate in the magic that is Amanda Bouchet!

"You're the shield, and I'm the sword. Together, we'll forge a new world." The first book in this series was one of my favorite reads of 2016. I was hooked on the intriguing and amazing world Amanda had created. The characters were so awesome and I fell in love with each and every one of them (not including the villains of course). I first tried to read this book in January when it released, however I wasn't in the mood for a Fantasy read, so I stopped at 27%. I decided to give it another go, and the story consumed me right away. I had to get used to all the unusual terms and names, so that took some chapters. But after that I was back into the story and could fully enjoy it. "I would move Mount Olympus itself to hold you in my arms and feel your heart beat against mine. You are my soul, and yes, I will fight for you and protect you until my dying breath." I really missed Cat and Griffin, and the rest of the gang. We learn so much from this book, and I loved all the suspense and action. The author does a great job in balancing the right amount of fantasy, action and romance. Everything fit just perfectly together. There was heartbreak and twists to the story. For Cat and Griffin to take over the world and make it a better place, they have to walk a very calculated line, so that there are the least amount of casualties/victims. These two and the Beta Team (Carver, Flynn and Kato) are so courageous and would sacrifice themselves for the greater good. I also loved Griffin's sisters Kaia and Jocasta. There was also humor in this book and breathtaking action scenes. This series is set in such an UNIQUE world, with so many incredible (mythological) creatures. I wish the third book wasn't the last one!

One of my favorites. Amazing debut.

Awesome can't wait for the next one. Very funny and full of surprises.

Warning: Past Abuse I didn’t like this one as much as the previous book but it was still very enjoyable. Again, the world of Thalyaria is very unique and I enjoyed all the new parts of it we got to explore with the Ice Plains, the Agon Games, and Tarva. Griffin and Cat are now together and except for a moment in the beginning their relationship remains strong throughout. It was nice to see Cat show some vulnerability and learn to lean on Griffin like a lover should. Just like with the first one, there is plenty of action and adventure in this one. I also liked that Cat and Griffin were together in this one. I always worry with series that following a single couple, that they will get broken up or a third person will get thrown in for a love triangle. But after an initial fight in the beginning, these two are more in love than ever before. However, I would have liked Griffin’s emotions to be a bit more stable; he was all over the place with his anger and his over-protectiveness of Cat was getting annoying. In the first book, it always felt like Griffin respected Cat’s strength and independence and the fact that she’s very much a warrior. In this book, Griffin was constantly trying to stop Cat from fighting. On one hand, I understand that he loves her and wants to protect her, especially after he develops some suspicions about Cat, but still, he was getting a little ridiculous. Also the opening scene was a bit much, and Griffin was very close to crossing a line for me. He’s too aggressive with Cat. Thankfully, that behavior is not repeated. There was even more of the Gods and Goddesses in this one as they begin to reveal to Cat what her true destiny is. The Agon Games were interesting and I’m glad they were included. They’re basically gladiator like battles that people compete in for glory and recognition.

Loved this book actin adventure swordfights Gods true love this has it all

Even if it wasn't quite as good as the first one, this was still a solid book that advanced the story and raised some extremely interesting points for the next book to solve. Not sure I can wait until January for the last one!!!

As much as I loved the first book, I was prepared to be disappointed by the second book in a proposed trilogy. However, I was ecstatic to receive early access on NetGalley (in exchange for an honest review), and even more excited when Breath of Fire was just as good as A Promise of Fire. I’m not exaggerating either! Amanda Bouchet was able to jump the hurdle of a defunct trilogy middle that is all exposition and no moving action. This book starts exactly where the first left off but then gets rather rocky as secrets are revealed and Griffin gets a bit aggressive and borderline abusive. I think that the reaction fits both of the characters and their situation. Also, I want to point out that no one was actually hurt, and that kind of almost abuse does not happen again. Once the short roller coaster of emotional turmoil is past, the rest of the book’s pacing makes more sense. I really don’t want to spoil anything, but know that the gods have a bit more page time, there’s more steamy scenes between Cat and Griffin, and lots of traveling. There’s plenty of character building and some more world building. We even get to see more creatures, some new and some previously described. That’s just say that there was plenty to get excited about. I thought the ending wrapped up nicely, but I was saddened by the fact that it was the end and book three doesn’t come out for a while yet. This has to be one of my favorite new series, and I am looking forward to see where this series goes and how it ends. But I hope that after this series there might be more stories written in this world.

Excellent read! I always enjoy a book with great adventures, quick surprises and fun, friendly banter among characters I grow to love. This book made me laugh and root for the good guys! My only disappointment is that I have to wait so long for the next book. This is the second book in Amanda Bouchet's series: The Kingmaker's Chronicles Book 1: A Promise of Fire -- Excellent book too!

Breath of Fire, by Amanda Bouchet Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews Back when reviewing book one I wrote “This is one of those fantasy reads that can cross age limits, being suitable for teens and YAs, as well as those like me long, long past that. Its a fascinating story with enough romance to keep me hooked, for me that gives a story something special, and some cracking magic. Its not a historical LotR type fantasy, but one that brings in Olympus and the Greek Gods and Goddesses.” Book two has all that and more. The story continues with the main characters facing death and disaster from humans and magical creatures alike, in their Quest to bring peace and end the reign or terror and raise up the standard of living for all the citizens, not just a favoured few. Its easy when faced with the kind of destiny they’re looking at and the sucess they’ve had so far to let the power go to their heads. Cat, Griffin and friends aren’t like that though, Cat’s background gets revealed and we know already just how much she’s been through in her short life. Griffin comes from the other side, the non-magical folk, ones that do the hard manual work and are always subject to the whims of their rulers. He has a vision though and its aligned with that of higher powers who seem to favour his ideas. Cat is central to his and their quest for a new regime, for peace, for fairness for all. They want a world with a hopeful, peaceful future for all the citizens, a world free of torture, slavery, all the things imposed on the non magical folk that currently provide enjoyment for a favoured few. I love the relationship progression, Griffin is so protective of Cat and yet doesn’t try to stop her from doing what she needs, encouraging her when she faces her very natural fears. Once more they face Gods and Goddesses, (and Kato gets to find that you can have too much of a good thing!) fierce, deadly magical creatures, as they take the next step in their journey. Its a fabulous book, that touch of romance lifts in from just a fantasy read and beings in the personal side, and yet sensual though it is it never overtakes the story, never overshadows the magic that’s happening around them. They’re learning a lot about each other too, becoming a tight knit team, learning to trust each other fully. Griffin has had their trust and pledge for a long while but now Cat’s in the team and they look to her as a leader too. She and Griffin both have their own specialities, and when needed they’re happy to let the other take point, lead, make the tough decisions. Back in 2014 I read a YA story that I felt would be perfect for film. The Paper Magician trilogy has since been snapped up by Disney, and I think this trilogy too would be perfect for the big screen. Its got so much in it, the romance thread  which I love is just enough for those like me who enjoy that angle, but won’t put those off who profess not to enjoy “romance”, the magic is fabulous, gripping, exciting, almost bloodthirsty at times but without too much horrific descriptions  ( they made me queasy, I’m a wimp, I know) and welded throughout is the message of fairness, of taking into account the effects of things all all members of society, of morality, kindness, and there’s a very clear Right and Wrong barrier in behaviour. Stars: Five, terrific read, more magic and mayhem, with romance and Right on Cat and Griffin’s side.   ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers

Breath of Fire started right where A Promise of Fire left off, with some fairly significant…revelations about Cat’s past coming to light. To be honest with this one, I had already guessed it about halfway through A Promise of Fire. But, it was sure interesting to see how those Cat has come to love react to the news. Hint: Griffin does not take it well at first. But seeing Cat attempt to come to terms with her past and her role in the future of the realm is a joy to watch. It’s the whole fiercly-independany-person-now-has-loved-ones-and-is-therefore-more-vulnerable-but-also-more-grown-up thing. Yes, that’s a thing. You know what I’m talking about. I had feared that with all the shenanigans and adventuring and romantic tension that A Promise of Fire held, we would see a departure in Breath of Fire to more subdued settings – some political maneuvering, some family squabbling, and general posturing. HURRAH FOR BEING WRONG. Note: I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I could not put it down.

Breath of Fire is book two in the Kingmaker Chronicles and it starts right where A Promise of Fire ends. I did a re-read of A Promise of Fire; before picking this one up. I wanted to be fresh on all the events and also I just loved book one so much that I felt it was time to revisit it. The beginning was my only issue with this book. I have to say, WOW, I was not expecting that start to a Breath of Fire. I was very shocked and disappointed in Griffin. He knows her past. The abuse both physical and mental, so for him to act that way, was just sad and shocking. I felt for Cat. She didn’t know what was going on, has no experience or good role models on relationships, so it was just heartbreaking. Once that boom and issue got resolved, thankfully it was fast, things moved fast and I do mean fast. I will say their is a lot more sex and thinking of sex in this book. It felt a bit overwhelming at times and I was wondering if the story was going to get lost in their, but things pick up and we are through back into the gang, now the Alpha Team, to head off to the Iceplains to secure magical creatures to protect Sinta’s boarder, but before that we go on a quest from the Gods and many many things are reveled about several of the Alpha Team members. We also know that war is coming, so to stop this Cat must take up the mantle she has been avoiding, her destiny. The story, characters, and world are magical. I like the mythology woven in and how the stakes continue to rack up. Cat, Griffin, and Company must face their destinies and their futures. They will have to make tough decisions and take risks that will change them all. The biggest battle is yet to come. This was another action-packed adventure. So much happens, so much is reveled, new allies, and much much more. I don’t want to spoil it, because really this Fantasy Romance needs to be read. You will not be disappointed. Rated: 4 Fire Stars *Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.

This is just my kind of book! This one really has it everything from excellent characters to an exciting plot that rarely slows down. I am loving this new fantasy romance series and already know that this is a book that I will most likely read again. This book picks up right where the first book, A Promise of Fire, leaves off so you really do want to read this series in order. From the moment I finished the first book, I couldn't wait to start reading the second one and it lived up to my expectations. All of Cat's secrets are revealed at the start of the story and it seems that everything she has feared is now coming true. Cat does have power and abilities unlike anyone else. To save and protect the people she cares about and the kingdom, Cat goes on a quest with Griffin, Carver, Flynn, and Kato where all of their lives will be in danger. This book started out with a really strong romance feel and I was a bit worried that the awesome fantasy of the first book was going to be overshadowed by romance. I had no need to worry because the fantasy in this book is quite strong. There really is a little bit of everything and the excitement never slowed down. I don't want to give any of the story away but as I sit here thinking about what happens in this book, I can't believe that it all fit in this single volume. The characters in this book are just wonderful. Cat is fierce and caring. She is brave and will sacrifice herself to keep others safe. Griffin is smart and tough. He will not let anything happen to Cat no matter what. We get the chance to know Kato, Carver, Flynn, and Jocasta better in this book and I grew to like them even more. Kato had a really important role in this book and my heart ached for him at times. The book was very well balance. It was filled with excitement and fantasy elements. The romance between Griffin and Cat is strong and their chemistry is still off the charts. There are a couple of secondary romances that are just starting to show promise in this book as well. There are moments in the story that I found rather funny as well and thoroughly enjoyed the banter between the characters. I would highly recommend this series to others. I think it is well crafted and highly entertaining. I can't wait to read more of the Kingmaker Chronicles. I received an advance reader copy of this book from Sourcebooks Casablanca via NetGalley.

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog*** Breath of Fire by Amanda Bouchet Book Two of the Kingmaker Chronicles Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca Publication Date: January 3, 2017 Rating: 4 stars Source: eARC from NetGalley ***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers*** Summary (from Goodreads): SHE'S DESTINED TO DESTROY THE WORLD... "Cat" Catalia Fisa has been running from her destiny since she could crawl. But now, her newfound loved ones are caught between the shadow of Cat's tortured past and the threat of her world-shattering future. So what's a girl to do when she knows it's her fate to be the harbinger of doom? Everything in her power. BUT NOT IF SHE CAN HELP IT Griffin knows Cat is destined to change the world-for the better. As the realms are descending into all-out war, Cat and Griffin must embrace their fate together. Gods willing, they will emerge side-by-side in the heart of their future kingdom...or not at all. What I Liked: Only two books into the series and I'm already declaring this trilogy a new favorite. I don't think I've ever read anything quite as unique as this fantasy romance series. I also can't remember the last time I was in love with a sequel novel as much as I was the first book - or almost as much. While A Promise of Fire is still the better of the two (in my opinion), I loved Breath of Fire. This book is nonstop action from start to finish. Cat and Griffin and the rest of Beta Team are back in the Sinta castle, but there is much to be done, with the Power Bid in full effect. With the Sintan borders unprotected, Cat and Beta team leave home to journey to the Ice Plains, in order to find Centaurs who might be persuaded to defend the Sintan borders. But reaching the Ice Plains is obstacle enough, let alone finding the fabled Chaos Wizard who can help them find the Centaurs. And even if they get the Centaurs to help - Cat and Griffin must find a way to take down the Tarvan royalty. Cat may be the key to Sintan success - or their destruction. I think the most unique aspect of this series is Cat's voice. She is hilarious and sarcastic and so prickly. This series is written entirely in her first-person perspective - there is no dual perspective - and I actually love this because it's fun to follow the story from her perspective. She's so entertaining! I love how Bouchet writes Cat's voice, and the story. In general, this book is so well-written. Bouchet has a strong writing style, and it shows. She also does an amazing job with the world-building. I thought this series was influenced by Greek mythology - but really, it's full of Greek mythology! This sequel throws us headfirst into a ton of Greek mythology, which is spun to Bouchet's liking, for the world-building. We get up close to hydras, centaurs, nymphs, even goddesses. And a cameo appearance from Cerberus! I adore Cat. I couldn't love her more, to be honest. She's so funny, but she's also tough as nails and very selfless. She doesn't want to be Beta Fisa, or any kind of royal in charge, but she's a natural. She's intelligent and experienced in so many different things, but she isn't a hardened, jaded person. She's got a mean streak and she is fierce, and she has a low opinion of herself at times, but she's a warrior and a fighter, and I love how she keeps going. Read the rest of my review on my blog, The Eater of Books! - eaterofbooks DOT blogspot DOT com :)

Breath of Fire by Amanda Bouchet is the 2nd book in her fantastic The Kingmaker Chronicles series. After I had read the first book of this series, I had said that I was adding Amanda Bouchet to my list of authors I must read. Well after finishing, Breath of Fire, nothing has changed. This was another fantastic addition to this series, and I love Bouchet’s writing. In Breath of Fire, we pick up shortly after the last book ended. Cat, our marvelous heroine, has kept many secrets from Griffin, our hero. But their love for each other is very strong, and Griffin will come accept that Cat is more than a Kingmaker, as she is the infamous lost princess, who has more powers that she herself doesn’t know about. Griffin is determined to take over other realms to create land of peace. As they prepare to leave with his Beta team (his wonderful hunks, Carver, Kato and Flynn), they learn quickly that there is more secrets from Cat, who is called the harbinger, something she has been afraid to tell Griffin. But he convinces Cat that this does not mean bad; it just means she will help him end the bad realms and bring forward a new peaceful realm with her as the Queen. Before anything can be done, they must retrieve items that are needed for them to enter Tarva and take that evil throne. Of course, the gods do not make it easy, as each step of the way is dangerous and death defying tasks. What follows is non-stop action in an intense, suspenseful mythical adventure, that will have us constantly on the edge of our seats, praying that they survive each task. At each stop along the way, every member of the team will find themselves in death terrifying situations, which will include the final step; winning the arena game of death, which was almost hopeless. Such an amazing adventure, including the wild exciting finale. Most of all, the romance between Cat and Griffin becomes so much more, as their love for each other and their sexual chemistry glows throughout the entire book. I loved them together, as now they have become one in every faction of their lives. It is Griffin who helps Cat get beyond her fears of her future, and makes her become what she is destined to be……a powerful Queen. But they still need to get past the biggest obstacle, the evil Queen Andromeda (Cat’s mother), which will lead us to the next book, Heart of Fire. Thank you, Amanda Bouchet for another fantastic story that left me breathless. If you have not started this series, and you enjoy fantasy, non-stop action, suspense, great characters, and a super wonderful couple; then you should be reading A Promise of Fire, then Breath of Fire. Do yourself a favor, and add Amanda Bouchet to your list of authors to read.

A great high fantasy with a swoony romance! “It’s time to be the person you were meant to be, Cat. You don’t just have to make decisions and stand by them now. You have to live with them.” I am raising my hands in thunderous applause for Breath of Fire as Amanda Bouchet’s Kingmaker Chronicles trilogy continues its awesomeness-beyond-measure! It is truly a wild, action-packed read and it utterly blew me away. Magical creatures abound along with mythological gods and prophecies! My heart was in my throat most of the book. Breath of Fire takes up right where A Promise of Fire ended with Cat in her villainous power-hungry mother’s sight as Cat is recovering from her near-death experience with a knife to the gut. As the story opens, there is trouble in paradise as long-held secrets are revealed and Griffin is blindsided. Cat runs, but she can’t run far because she is physically bound by the verbal pledge she made binding herself to him. That’s just the beginning. Hold on to your seats as we embark on an epic quest, visit with the oracle, become participants in the deadly Agon Games, fight epic battles and more. Of course, things don’t always go according to Plan A or Plan B. Is there a Plan C? Catalia Andromeda Eileithyia Fisa “Cat” is coming more into her own. She’s learning to use her powers and to trust in others, most especially Griffin and the rest of the Beta Team and with her connection with the gods. But, she’s still holding dear more secrets – secrets predicting a dire future. Griffin is awesome! He’s strong and has all the faith in the world in Cat even when she doesn’t. The two clash over his protectiveness and I have to give him credit. He’s really trying to do better. I laugh at their names for each other; Your Growliness, Your Logicalness, Your Nakedness… This powerful alpha couple connects not only with hot sex but with such intense passion that they are still coming to terms with it. Supporting characters are not ignored and they face plenty of challenges on their own. B-Teamer Kato plows on no matter what’s thrown at him. I will never forget his snake or what he had to do to please the goddess! Another B-Teamer Flynn and Princess Jocasta are grappling with their own attraction. Carver, B-Teamer and brother to Griffin, is fighting his own demons and my heart goes out to him. Do yourself a huge favor and read this series in order. I can’t imagine jumping into Breath of Fire without having first read A Promise of Fire. You won’t be sorry. Each book is superb reading. Breath of Fire is a great high fantasy with a swoony romance! Seriously, if you enjoy epic romantic fantasies with kickass heroines and Greek mythology overtones throughout, you really, really, really need to check out this series! I especially love that this author doesn’t leave readers dangling with cruel cliff-hangers. THANK YOU, AMANDA! Believe me, even without a cliffhanger, you will be excited for the next installment! I can’t wait for Heart of Fire, the conclusion of this trilogy which will release Fall 2017! My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there!

Amanda Bouchet’s BREATH OF FIRE is a thrilling addition to the Kingmaker Chronicles. Catalia Fisa and Griffin continue their adventure to unifying the realms. This mythological fantasy is suitable for new adult audiences. I loved this story. Amanda Bouchet does an amazing job with both her character development and plot. She is extremely creative and does an incredible job with visualization in the story. Cat is a wonderful heroine. She is the runaway princess, Beta to the Fisan line. She is powerful and clever. She is concerned about her prophecy thinking the worst, instead of the possible positive outcome. I love Griffin. He is brave and idealistic. He cares about his people. Due to their very different upbringings, Cat and Griffin have some epic misunderstanding. However, the two have amazing chemistry and rule well together. I really enjoyed the plot. I love the mythological aspect of the story. Their visit to the Ice Plains and to see the Chaos Wizard was entertaining. I thought their entering the Agon Games was creative. The story had a sort of gladiator/Hunger Games feel. BREATH OF FIRE was full of action and suspense. It had exciting twists. I would love to see The Kingmaker Chronicles turned into movies. I cannot wait for the next book, HEART ON FIRE. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.