Firebird
A spicy historical romantasy set in Ancient Rome where Emperors may govern but dragons rule . . .
By: Juliette Cross
Passion ignites in Firebird, a scorching, dark romantasy set in Ancient Rome. From acclaimed author Juliette Cross, this is House of the Dragon meets From Blood and Ash. A conqueror captivated. A witch prophesied to save them all. A world where dragons rule Rome. From the moment Roman general and nephew to the emperor Julianus Dakkia laid eyes on Malina, he was enthralled by the Dacian dancer. Years later, the fierce beauty stands before him on a scarred battlefield, her life in danger. He instinctively shifts into his dragon form to save her, an action that may result in his head on the imperial gate. But he and his dragon know one thing: she belongs to them. Malina can’t believe that the centurion who had once bestowed a secret talisman on her is the Roman general of legendary brutality. His warrior prowess cannot be denied, yet it doesn't reveal the secret he hides. All Malina knows is his protection and gentle touch and how her soul has always seemed to answer his. As they navigate a world where flying deathriders conquer and burn, their love will ignite a firestorm that can only end in heartbreak or death. Or both. Why readers love Firebird: 'An addictive, fast paced read with chemistry off the charts!' 'Seriously intense and steamy romance' 'The romance? Utter perfection' Firebird by Juliette Cross is the first fiery book in the The Fire That Binds dark romantasy series. Firebird is a fantasy with some dark themes, including elements of master/slave relationship, attempted sexual assault (not between MCs), and dubious consent (not between MCs). Readers who may be sensitive to these elements, please take note.
AI Overview
Comprehensive Overview of "Firebird" by Juliette Cross
Plot Summary: "Firebird" by Juliette Cross is a dark romantasy set in a fantastical Ancient Rome where dragons rule. The story revolves around Roman general Julianus Dakkia, nephew to the emperor, and Malina, a Dacian dancer with magical abilities. Julian is captivated by Malina from the moment he sees her dance, and years later, he finds her on a scarred battlefield, saving her from danger by shifting into his dragon form. This action puts him at risk of being executed, but he and his dragon know that she belongs to them.
Malina is unaware that the centurion who once bestowed a secret talisman on her is the legendary dragon general. She only knows his protection and gentle touch, which her soul has always responded to. As they navigate a world where flying deathriders conquer and burn, their love becomes a central conflict that could lead to heartbreak or death.
Key Themes:
- Forbidden Love: The relationship between Julian and Malina is fraught with power imbalances, as Julian owns Malina, but he respects her powers and treats her as an equal.
- Fated Mates: The story explores the concept of fated mates, where Julian and Malina are destined to be together.
- Dark Themes: The book includes elements of master/slave relationships, attempted sexual assault (not between the main characters), and dubious consent (not between the main characters). These themes are noted as potential triggers for some readers.
- Political Intrigue: The novel is set in a world with political unrest and intrigue, where the Roman Empire is threatened by internal conflicts and external enemies.
- Magic and Fantasy: The story features magical elements, including Malina's empathic abilities and the dragon shifters, adding a fantastical layer to the historical setting.
Critical Reception:
- Mixed Reviews: Some readers have praised the book for its addictive and fast-paced narrative, intense romance, and intriguing world-building. However, others have noted that the story lacks depth and nuance in handling certain themes, particularly the master/slave dynamic and the romance.
- Trigger Warnings: Many reviewers have emphasized the need for trigger warnings due to the dark themes, including elements of master/slave relationships and dubious consent.
- Positive Aspects: The book has been praised for its compelling characters, especially Malina, and the well-constructed world-building. The cover art has also been highlighted as stunning, drawing readers in.
Conclusion
"Firebird" by Juliette Cross is a dark romantasy that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and political intrigue set in a fantastical Ancient Rome. While it has received mixed reviews, it is clear that the book has a strong appeal for fans of romantasy and fantasy, particularly those who enjoy forbidden love stories and magical bonds. However, readers should be aware of the dark themes and potential triggers before diving into the book.