Cover of Iron & Embers: The Ashes of Thezmarr, Book 1

Iron & Embers: The Ashes of Thezmarr, Book 1

by Matt Haynes Helen Scheuerer

4.4
Published January 28 2025
Epic Fantasy Romance Fantasy Romance forced proximityhate to lovegrumpy sunshineslow burnforbiddenbully to boyfriend

Wren Embervale is an alchemist-turned-assassin who has spent years in the shadows, fueled by a singular, burning need for vengeance. However, her reclusive life is shattered when a mysterious and lethal form of alchemy threatens the midrealms. To uncover a cure, she must secure a spot at the prestigious Drevenor academy by surviving the Gauntlet—a series of deadly, sanity-testing trials. As she navigates a treacherous web of political deception and targeted magic, Wren finds herself forced into an uneasy alliance with her greatest adversary: Torj Elderbrock. A silver-haired war hero and the man tasked with her protection, Torj harbors a deep-seated hatred for Wren, stemming from her past role in the assassination of his former charge. Featuring a high-stakes enemies-to-lovers romance, the story crackles with sharp banter, simmering tension, and the constant threat of betrayal. As Wren and Torj are thrust together, they must decide if their undeniable chemistry is a path to salvation or a lethal poison that could destroy them both. Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and slow-burn yearning, this gripping series opener delivers pulse-pounding action and emotional turmoil in equal measure.