A review by natashaleighton_
Chaos & Flame by Tessa Gratton, Justina Ireland

adventurous mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Anyone currently in their Dragon Fantasy Era needs to read this! The political intrigue, warring (magical) houses and enemies to lovers dynamics (between protagonists Talon and Darling) is soo scorchingly entertaining that I really didn’t want it to end!

Told from the alternating POV of two characters on opposite sides of a decades long war. Darling, an assassin determined to get revenge for the murder of her family (at the hands of House Dragon.) And Talon, House Dragon’s war general who’ll do anything to protect the family he has left, his older brother Caspian (the realm’s High Prince Regent.)

After a battle between Talon’s soldiers and Darling’s rebellious adopted family (House Kraken), Talon captures Darling, and with orders from the High Prince Regent brings her back to the palace for punishment.

But punishment isn’t exactly what Caspian has in mind. Instead, Darling finds herself the newly reinstated head of House Sphinx —and for the first time navigate the complicated inter-house politics that, if she isn’t careful, could lead her (and House Dragon) into a chaotic and fiery downfall. 

The lore and history surrounding the different mythical creatures and their connections to each house was really fascinating, though not as detailed as I would’ve liked. I loved the dragon scenes which for the most part were actually quite lighthearted, except for one scene (but wish we got a bit more Kitty the dragon content.) 

I was a little disappointed we didn’t get to see more of Caspian (or have him as a POV character) as his actions and motivations were shrouded in mystery and I would’ve loved to have explored his (rather chaotic but insightful) thought processes.

But the emotional development we explore in our two POV characters, Darling and Talon, was really good. Having both experienced losses (at the hands of each other’s families) I really enjoyed delving into their inner thoughts —especially surrounding their attraction/ conflicted feelings for one another and  directly opposing loyalties. 

The chemistry between them was scorchingly good, if a little angsty at times (with all the long, yearning looks and emotionally conflicted inner monologues) but did proceed quite quickly—so perfect for anyone who doesn’t enjoy slow-burn narratives. 

Also, given how integral the romance aspect is to the story, I just wanted to remind everyone that this is YA (the target audience being teens) so please don’t go into this expecting it to be spicy. 

Overall, an enjoyable read with a PHENOMENALLY FIERY, cliffhanger of an ending that I’m still in shock over —I’m not sure if I’ll survive the wait for book 2 but I’ll be eagerly awaiting it nonetheless. 

Also, a huge thank you to Penguin Teen and The Tandem Collective for the finished PB copy. 


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