Fire by Kristin Cashore

Fire

Synopsis:

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.

This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she had the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.

Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom.

If only she weren't afraid of becoming the monster her father was.

Review:

It has been a while since I read Graceling, but I remembered liking that story. I might have to go back and re-read it now that I have finished this one and before moving on to the next book. I really enjoy the world the author created, the characters and things that live in that world. Fire's side of that world with the colorful monster animals seem like it would be beautiful, but dangerous. Fire herself is super sweet, though most others treat her horribly because of what she can do if she wanted. Her father definitely made people hate the monster that she is (though they are called monsters, she definitely is not one). I loved how she slowly became friends with Brigan and how their relationship grew. He disliked her at first, but eventually when he let himself know her instead of assuming what she would be like they learned to trust each other and really care for each other. It was all very sweet. 

The one thing that was disappointing in this book was the villain. I mean you start with this great opening talking about him and how he was raised and came to be on that side of the mountains, and how evil he is. Then he is just kind of forgotten for most of the book. Yes you get the foggy archer, and I always assumed that had to do with this kid, but there is no real confrontation with him until the end. Then he is defeated way too easily. Really everything just wrapped up too quickly for the pace of the rest of the book. I still enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next book. 

Rating: ★ ★ ★