I am living the development of Torj and Embers relationship almost more than Wilder and Thea’s. The added political intrigue and alchemic mysteries to solve make it an engaging read. The spice is all consuming and so believable for these two that it fit seamlessly into the story. Great read, can’t wait for the next instalment!

Really good continuation of this series. This was well-paced and kept me engaged throughout. High stakes and some great romance and spice. Definitely recommend

this was a rollercoaster of a sequel and I loved every second of it!

I have to admit that it did take a bit for me to remember everything that happened in the first book, but after that it was quite easy to get lost in this magical world and to really feel the incredible connection between our main characters, Wren and Torj. seriously, the love they had for each other is my absolute favorite kind - angsty and star-crossed!

another thing I appreciated was the plot and how every moment was well thought out. while there are many second books out there that are simply filler books that don't add much to the overall story, that's not the case for 'Thorns & Fire'. the stakes are high, the magic even more dangerous and complex, and there's this sense of 'who can the heroes trust?' that made the book very engaging.

and after that ending, I need the next book now!!

‘That man burns for you, Wren. The sooner you both catch alight the better, lest you set the whole world ablaze.’

You know how sometimes you get worried about second book syndrome for a book you loved?
WELL FEAR NOT MY FRIENDS.
Because this book was fantastic. From my previous review we know I was obsessed with this world, the characters and the direction the plot went.
I can confirm that I was screeching just as loudly while reading this one.
By the very first page there was action and the route was carved for the plot line, and I was here for it ALL. It was soft on the info dumping which helped to keep me engaged and when I tell you I couldn’t have fallen anymore for Torj?! WELL I DID. If there’s light at the end of the tunnel, I don’t want it. Let me stay in the warm embrace of the blissful words and actions of Torj Elderbrock, I beg you.
There was a point of frustration with Torj where his protective tendencies made me scream JUST TELL HER ALREADY but the yearning and love this man had for Wren… completely unmatched.
Wren was again, very awesome to follow, such a strong FMC. She has a strong will, stubbornness, but is incredibly smart and witty. Her scenes with Torj, and that spice factor, WOW, all I’m saying is Torj isn’t the only one with a dirty mouth
The camaraderie from characters was high, the banter was great and I did laugh/slightly rage and gasp at moments too! A full on emotional rollercoaster.

And would highly recommend tropes of grumpy x sunshine, touch her or him and unalive, forbidden romance, one horse, bodyguard x princess, found family, forced proximity and he falls first (HARD)!

Thorns & Fire is a beautifully written continuation of The Ashes of Thezmarr series that deepens both the world building and the emotional stakes. I LOVED returning to Wren and Torj’s journey, especially the slow burn rekindling of their relationship, which felt both tense and tender in all the right ways.
Scheuerer manages to balance magic, political intrigue, and romance with skill, and while I personally found the start a little slow, the payoff was definitely worth it.
If you're into romantasy with emotional depth and a strong female lead grappling with power and purpose, this is well worth your time. Excited to see where the series goes next!

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book.

I was sadly a bit underwhelmed by it, first of all I struggled to get back into the universe and remember exactly what had happened to the characters even if I read the books a few weeks ago.
Second of all, the book suffers from the 2nd book in a trilogy archetype, it felt like it should’ve just been a longer duology.
I am unsure if I’d like the read the final book I didn’t grew attached to any of the characters they seemed pretty boring in my eyes at that point.

I would still recommend the book for a nice universe and political setting.

Thank you to the author and publishers for allowing me an ARC via NetGalley!

I think it’s safe to say that this sequel absolutely lived up to everyone’s expectations. I love the way that Helen writes the dynamics of the relationship between Torj and Wren; the emotions felt so incredibly genuine and it really draws on the readers own emotions. You can’t help but feel every feeling the characters feel: guilt, rejection, anger, disappointment, and even the strength of the love they have for each other.
The pacing of the book was excellent, as no part felt rushed or prolonged, which made it really easy to digest and finish. It was a good balance of plot, and relationship building/world building. Helen is incredible at describing the intricacies of a ‘forbidden’ relationship, and the dual POV just really emphasised the connection Wren and Torj have despite everything working against them.
There’s a great amount of plot progression from Iron & Embers, and it doesn’t feel ‘too much too soon’. I appreciate the fact that this series can be read apart from her previous series, however I think this has inspired me to go back and read those books for deeper context and understanding.
As an author, I feel as though Helen does an excellent job at portraying human emotions, and we see the humanity in all of the characters as their feelings are multi-dimensional and it really personified each person for me.
Writing a multiple books in a year is no easy feat, but Helen has handled it with ease and there has been no change in the quality of her writing, as both books released this year are easily deserving or 5 stars. I will sell my soul for part 3 and will be eagerly awaiting it!


Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for providing me with this e-arc in return for an honest review.

5⭐️ 3🌶

This book was everything and more, if there's one thing Helen Scheuerer knows how to do above everything else it is to write characters who YEARN

The pace of these books are so well written, it doesn't feel like you've just read a 500 page book by the end. Every small moment feels like something bigger and you're right there along with the characters for the ride.

I don't want to give anything away about the plot but this has set the next book up for a tonne of action. I hope Helen writes more books in this world because I can not say goodbye ⚡️

This is a super bingeable romantasy series with high stakes and a swoon worthy romance. I love the found family element to this series (and the prequel series). Very easy to get through and I can’t wait for the next instalment!

If there’s one trope that trumps all other known tropes, it’s yearning. I’m talking the kind of yearning that moves mountains and changes lives; the kind of yearning that changes people, perspectives, priorities; the kind of yearning that makes a beast of a man, and a viper of a woman ache for one another, until that ache is all that they know. Iron & Embers was a sensational read, and I am beyond grateful to get the chance to return to Thezzmar, Torj and Wren so soon. I am putty in the hands of this author, she’s delivering angst, yearning, desire (a tent! “I got you!”, “fuck it!!” tending to his wounds!, “you’re mine and I’m yours”) romance, lust, trauma, and gut wrenching heartache and I am beyond addicted. A perfect sequel to a perfect book. I’m going to die waiting for the next one.

Thank you to NetGalley, Pan Macmillan and Helen for allowing me to read and review this ARC!

5⭐️

Well, Helen! You have done it again, you are the QUEEN of fantasy romance and this book is perfection!!! I absolutely LIVE for Helen’s writing style and honestly, this series is MILES better than legends of Thezmarr for me. I never want it to end.

Thorns & Fire is the sequel to Iron & Embers, following our MCs Wren and Torj 5 years after the events of the Shadow War, Wren is on her way to becoming a Master Alchemist whilst Torj is tasked with being her bodyguard and protector! The tension, the banter, the spicy. CHEF F*#KING KISS!!!!!! Alongside is a gripping story that keeps you invested and ALREADY I’m pulling my hair out with impatience for the next book!

Book two in the Ashes of Thezmarr series picks up just a few weeks after the absolutely heartbreaking end of book one. Wren, our fierce FMC, is holed up in Drevenor trying to recreate the cure, and after being pushed away, and pushing her sway, Torj has returned to his Warsword duties with Wilder. But it’s not long before he’s back by Wren’s side as her guard, and their fake-hate relationship reignites in all its glory.

The dynamic between these two is everything. The tension, the longing, the quiet moments—they just melt me. That said… I still cannot wrap my head around Torj’s genius idea to lie to Wren and push her away. Honesty is the best policy!

I enjoyed Thorns & Fire even more than Iron & Embers—the pacing was tighter, the plot had more momentum, and everything just clicked. The slow burn romance absolutely ruined me (in the best way). Every single time they spoke, I was practically vibrating with anticipation—“Is it now? Finally?” And of course, it took forever… but when we finally got there? Perfection.
There’s a little spice around the 50% mark, but the real magic doesn’t happen until closer to 80%—and wow. With their new bond, it turns into a can’t-keep-their-hands-off-each-other situation and it seriously delivered.

But that ending?! I knew something big was coming but what was that?! The cliffhanger was downright cruel and I am not okay.

Can someone please tell me when book three is coming out? Because I need it. Immediately.

Thorns and fire review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Helen! What are you doing to me?!

First of all, I will never get over this incredible world Helen has created. I am obsessed with every single one of the characters in this epic, fantasy world.

This was a solid read for me, as always. Helen’s writing style is absolutely top tier and this book, along with all of the others in the Thezmar world, will forever be my ultimate happy place, minus the emotional torture 😏.

SO romantic, so spicy, so full of action, clever magical elements, short chapters, fast paced and rammed full of delicious book tropes.

HS has worked her way up to one of my favourite epic, Romantasy authors and it’s a given I will read anything the woman produces.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, for gifting me this early copy, I’m so grateful. And now my wait for the next book starts…

A huge huge thank you to Pan McMillan for this arc, I’ve been anxiously awaiting this after THAT Iron & Embers ending!! Thorns & Fire picks up straight after and oh my, the yearning in this is visceral, I mean..I felt it in my bones…Torj!🥺 I loved this, the tension, the wanting…I may have stayed up far too late after being about to put it down and then getting to only one tent - HELEN!! Fully to blame for my zombie like state the next morning! I honestly could not stop reading this and though I wanted to savour it I ended up flying through it. I just need all the Wren & Torj! and Wilder & Thea…and Cal & Kipp, I adore them all. Helen has created such an incredible world in Thezmarr and everything she writes is just pure brilliance! I cannot wait to see what is in store next for Wren & Torj…and the Midrealms

Of course I had to read Thorns & Fire - the sequel to Iron & Embers pretty much as soon as I got the invitation and I have no regrets…except for how long I now need to wait for the conclusion to The Ashes of Thezmarr trilogy!

Following the end of Iron & Embers, I was in exactly the same position- how could I not be? Wren and Torj have been through so much and this second book in the trilogy just built upon that, layering on the physical, political and sexual tension that left me on the brink in book 1!

This is no filler, second book syndrome disappointment! Thorns and Fire builds upon the world-building, magic system development and social, and emotional relationships to bring even more growth, development and challenges for these much loved characters!

There’s no questioning the spice and power of their relationship, with some truly inferno like scenes but, this book builds on their relationship within and without - there is more development for supporting characters, including Kipp, Dessa, Cal and Xavier’s personal arc that will blow you away!

I absolutely love Wren as a character too! She is independent, strong, feisty, and determined but, she has grown into recognising when to ask for help and to recognise her own skills and abilities, particularly as the situation around her heightens and the stakes increase exponentially!

Another truly explosive chapter of The Ashes of Thezmarr that totally blew my socks off and had me up far too late to read just one more chapter!

Thanks to Pan MacMillan, Tor Bramble and
NetGalley for the invitation to review this book in exchange for my honest and sincere review.

Thorns & Fire plunges us right back into the captivating, richly imagined world of Thezmarr, picking up in the wake of Torj’s heart-wrenching decision to sever his Soul Bond with Wren. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear there’s far more to the bond than either of them could have expected. Determined to protect Wren at all costs, Torj must wrestle with his lingering feelings—can he keep her safe without acknowledging the depth of their connection?

Meanwhile, Wren is on her own journey, trying to navigate her place in a world that constantly demands more from her. As a gifted alchemy student at Drevenor and one of the lost heirs to a broken kingdom, Wren faces impossible choices as the Midrealms stand on the brink of destruction once again. Her growth throughout this book is incredible—she’s no longer the isolated poisoner from book one. She’s becoming a true leader.

Helen Scheuerer’s writing continues to blow me away. She does not miss. After Iron & Embers became my first five-star read of the year, I was nervous about the sequel living up to it—but Thorns & Fire delivers in every way. With each new instalment, we get deeper into the Thezmarr lore, uncovering a world that is as beautiful as it is brutal. The expansion of the mythology and political tension is masterful.

One of my favourite aspects of this book is the villain: a mysterious figure cloaked in darkness and alchemy, who twists Wren’s own creations into weapons. The way he manipulates the victims of the first war is chilling—and yet, completely understandable. Wren’s empathy toward them adds so much complexity to her character. She knows change is necessary, and her final choice in the book (yes, the one involving her sister) had me tearing up, even though I saw it coming.

And then there’s Torj and Wren. These two just work. Helen writes their dynamic with so much care—balancing secrets, sacrifice, and longing—without falling into the dreaded miscommunication trope. Their romance feels earned and never drags. The emotional tension, the subtle spice, the cliffhanger ending... chef’s kiss. I already can’t wait for book three to see how Wren’s bold plan unfolds.

We also get more time with beloved side characters—Kip and Cal especially continue to shine. And that Bloodteller name drop? I nearly screamed. If we don’t get more of that in the next book (or even a spin-off), I will riot. Honestly, I’d read a whole book about his kidnapping escapades alone—it would be both tragic and hilarious.

I’m still in awe that Helen is releasing all three books of this trilogy in a single year. It feels like we’ve barely had to wait, and yet each instalment is packed with so much depth and development.

If you loved the Legends of Thezmarr series or are a fan of dark fantasy with heart, Thorns & Fire is an absolute must-read. I’m officially obsessed with Helen Scheuerer’s world-building, romance, and characters—and I need to dive into her entire backlist ASAP.

@Helen Scheuerer 📚 Author has absolutely done it again. 5 stars each and every time. I can honestly say Helen can do no wrong in my eyes. This is the second instalment in the ashes of thezmarr series. Although Helen stated this can be read as a standalone series, in my opinion it is best to be read after the legends of the Thezmarr which is 5 years prior to Wren & Torj story.
The book followed on beautifully from the heart shattering cliff hanger at the end of Iron and Embers. I honestly didn’t think it could get any better but it really does. This book was everything. You have
- reluctant bodyguard,
- hate to love,
- forced proximity,
- academic setting and the best part for me is the
-found family aspect. The plot and character development in this series has been amazing. It’s just everything. I just want to stay in this world forever. The ending of this book.. was jaw dropping and although I could tell a little of what was coming it still shocked me to my core. Helen has and always will be an autobuy author for me. Although this book is an arc for me I will always go out to purchase a beautiful hard copy of this world. I adore it so much.

@NetGalley @Pan Macmillan UK
#grumpyvgrumpy #forcedproximity #onehorsetrope #hatetolovetrope #trials #adademia #alchemy #BookTok #fantasy #warswords #torjandwren #wrenandtorj #thornsandfire #ironandembers #ashesofthezmarr #legendsofthezmarr #theaandwilder #fyp #booktokuk #fypuk #foryou #viral #fantasybooks #fantasyworld #lightningweilder

ALL THE STARS!!! The second book in the Ashes of Thezmarr series was everything I hoped for and more! I was so escited to be approved for this title!
Thorns and Fire is a captivating romantasy with a slow-burn which kept me hooked and at no point did my children eat a home cooked meal that exceeded prep time of over 10 min for the two days I was walking around the house with my kindle as an extension of my hand!
I love Scheuerer’s world-building; her books are ABSOLUTE TOP-TIER and most definitely amongst the best of the genre, and she is on my auto-buy author list. Adventure, political intrigue, amazing banter, character development, supporting side characters and Wren and Torj just… *chef’s kiss*

I would still recommend reading The Legends of Thezmarr first to fully appreciate the characters and their world, you would be doing yourself SUCH a disservice by jumping into Ashes first. I read A LOT of romantasy, and you don’t come across this level of writing often so do it right, you will not regret it, I promise! Holding my breath for book no3! If you haven't explored the world of Thezmarr yet, I envy you, you're in for a ride!

Thank you to Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for this review copy, all opinions are my own.

first off i just want to say thank you to the Pan Macmillan team for sending me the ARC of this book🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹means the absolute WORLD to me because i LOVEDDD iron & embers. Being in this world again was nothing short of magical and these characters honestly feel like home. I loveeee all the side characters: kipp, dessa, zavier, cal, thea, wilder, they all hold a special place in my heart!!!

Torj and Wren are just absolutely everything. Their love is honestly like no other. The slow burn and yearning in this book was chef’s kiss🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽🤌🏽

The reasons as to why it wasn’t a 5🌟:

Miscommunication trope << (torj took wayyy too long to finally come clean about everything)
The focus became too heavily on the romance to the point where the plot was lowkey forgotten… it honestly felt like nothing was happening at all
A lot of unnecessary dialogue & dragged out scenes.. focus could’ve been more on the development of the plot

Nonetheless, i LOVEE this series and love the author’s writing and that ending?????! Definitely need book 3 asap!😩😩😩😩😩

Sadly, this felt more like a filler book in terms of plot - it is more to work out the fall out of book one in terms of Wren and Torj’s relationship and the secrets Torj is hiding.

Saying that, the ending sets up beautifully for book three and I have better hopes for that.

<b>‘You’re playing with fire, Embers . . .’ he warned.
‘You’re forgetting how much I like to go up in flames,’ she whispered in his ear.
</b>
Wren is learning she is not alone.
Kipp still meddles in their relationship.
There’s a one-tent troupe.
There is a lot of jealous possessiveness.

I missed the academia setting, the trials, the bantering. There is a lot of travelling and catching people up on what happened in the previous series Blood and Steel.

Arc gifted by Tor Bramble.