Overview
Taran Wird holds the unique
ability to conjure fire and lightening. She is mated to Gemini, Second in
Command to the Squaw Valley Pack of the Lake Tahoe Region, and the sole
werewolf to possess the ability to split into two wolves. And although they are
mates, Taran's insecurities have driven them apart.
Devastated by an injury that left
her with a zombie-like limb, Taran struggles to regain command over her magic.
But when her arm and her power turn against her, lashing out on those she most
loves, she knows she can no longer carry this burden alone. Not that she likes
the alternative.
The only way to regain control of
her magic is to align and learn from the local coven of witches―the very ones
who sought to banish her when she and her three unique sisters first moved to
the mystical region. But although Taran is trying, the teachings don't come
easy, and the tasks leave her weak and emotionally shattered.
Yet Taran must learn and learn
fast. Time is running out. The fire she once mastered so easily has become her
greatest adversary and is now slowly burning her alive . . .
About Of Flame and Light
Recommended Ages: 18 and up
kindle edition has 350 pages
Published: October 18th 2016
For This Review: *E-book copy provided by Tasty Book Tours for Review*
When
I started reading the Weird girls series a few years back, I fell deeply
in love with Cecy Robson's sharp, funny dialogue, hilarious characters
and brilliant world building. The ups and downs of Celia's journey
caused quite a few tears and many laughs, and, while I loved the way
Robson wrapped up Celia's journey in 'A Curse Unbroken', I'll admit that I wasn't quite ready
to say goodbye to all the characters I'd grown inordinately attached
to. Taran, in particular, interested me. There's just something about
her brashness that really lights up the page. So I was understandably
thrilled when it was revealed that Taran would get to have her say in
(at least one) feature length book.
It's fair to say I had ridiculously high expectations when I started
'of Flame and Light', and, luckily, Taran didn't disappoint. If
anything, my already sky high expectations were blown away by the
reality of the novel. One caveat; I think that this novel could be read as a stand alone, but it will be much, much better if read as part of the overall series.
Of Flame and Light picks up very close to where 'A Curse Unbroken' left off, so
readers won't be jarred by entering the world they've come to love years
after the main events of the last book occurred. Taran's powers are
acting up, her relationship is going through a rough patch, and the very
attractive and very superior head witch (Genieve) seems to have eyes
for her man. Of course, that's just the first few couple of chapters. As
always, Robson delivers a roller coaster full of twists, turns and
shenanigans you don't see coming.
Taran
manages to maintain her trademark wit, even in her darkest moments. And
while the overall tone of Of Flame and Light is similar to the earlier books in the
series, Taran has her own voice and imparts her own imprint on readers that is
distinct from Celia.
Of course, we get to catch up with all the Wird Girl favourites,
including Bren, Emme and Shayna. I was particularly intrigued by the
hints that were dropped regarding Emme, and am really looking forward to
seeing what her future holds. The introduction of a few new characters,
and the deeper exploration of characters - like Genieve - who were more
on the periphery of Celia's story really added to the novel. As always,
any passage with Mrs. Mancuso
left me howling with laughter - she is
simply the best, worst neighbour I have ever read.
Taran was a relatable, brilliant and wonderfully fleshed out character. Her sass and her confidence are awe inspiring, and you just cannot help rooting for her. Even when you may not agree with her decisions, you can understand where she is
coming from. I found this particularly true of her relationship with
Gemini. While I did not agree with much of her thought process, and
found her actions at times ignorant or frustrating, she was not unrealistic or even annoying in her beliefs, as you understand her insecurities and
interpretation of events, even as you want to scream at her that she has
obviously got it wrong.
I really cannot stress enough how much I loved this book. It has
everything; love, lust, heartbreak, betrayal, sisters, witches,
werewolves, and zombies. Yes, there are zombies. Really, fans of this author should just read Of Flame and Light to see how she handles the
zombies.
Overall: Recommended!
Genre: paranormal
About the Author
Cecy Robson is an
award-winning author of magical realms, to-die-for Alpha heroes, and young
adult adventure. A double RITA® 2016 finalist for Once Pure and Once Kissed,
and published author of more than fifteen titles, you can typically find her on her laptop or stumbling blindly in search
of caffeine.