I received a copy of A Kiss of Hammer and Flame by Amy de la Force from NetGalley. This book is a fantasy romance adventure, and it is the first book of the Fated for Hael series. The story follows Cahra, a young blacksmith. She carves an ancient symbol unknowingly, leading to the first omen of an old prophecy. Now, she has to go on the run to find answers and protect herself.
Cahra is a young blacksmith in Kolyath, one of the kingdoms. A young lord commissions a sword and gives Cahra a free hand with its design. Cahra unknowingly incorporates an ancient symbol that is the first omen of a prophecy related to the weapon. This weapon is said to be all-powerful, and all three kingdoms want it. Now, hunted for her creation, she runs away with Lord Terryl, who commissioned the sword. They have to navigate through trouble and learn more about the prophecy and Cahra’s role in it. Meanwhile, Cahra starts seeing someone in her dreams, Hael. He has been imprisoned in the capital of Hael’stromia for centuries. With the first omen, he is awoken, and Cahra and Hael have a connection.
The world created by the author in the book is enchanting and intriguing. The connection between Hael and Cahra and how they can see and speak to each other in their dreams is very fascinating. The whole prophecy element is created and executed well. Cahra and Hael are brought together through this prophecy. When Cahra and Lord Terry are on the run, Cahra learns more about her inner strength. She is a survivor; growing up with nothing and fighting to stay alive has made her resilient and kind. I loved how her arc came full circle when her role in the prophecy was revealed. It was not completely unexpected, but it surprised me nonetheless.
There is a bit of a love triangle situation between Cahra, Hael, and Lord Terryl. Cahra and Terryl are on the run; they learn a lot about each other. But Terryl keeps secrets from Cahra. For Cahra, she has been alone almost all her life. Trusting others is not an easy task for her, yet she finds common ground with Terryl. Her connection to Hael is more instant. His otherworldly, yet alluring presence makes her feel safe around him. Hael is honest with Cahra. He has been trapped and at others’ mercy, which is something Cahra can relate to. I thought that the chemistry between Cahra and Hael was undeniable. I am glad we got a resolution to this love triangle towards the end.
A Kiss of Hammer and Flame by Amy de la Force has a lot of aspects going well for it. I liked the fantasy world related to the story. The blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure keeps the reader engaged. The characters, especially Cahra and Hael, are intriguing and grounded. They make you root for them. Overall, I enjoyed reading this story. I will be waiting for the second book.
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