Genres: Fantasy Romance, Romantic Fantasy, Epic Fantasy | Release Date: 3 July 2025 | Series: Fated for Hael | Series Book: #1 | Pages: 409 | Publisher: Canelo | Review
“There will be no mercy.”
Amy de la Force
Overview:
A huge thank you goes to Amy de la Force and Net Galley for letting me read an e-ARC of A Kiss of Hammer and Flame! This is the first book in the Fated for Hael series, and is such a breath of fresh air in the romantasy genre. I went in with high hopes for this tale, and I can already tell you that Amy’s writing well and truly exceeded all of them. So without further ado, let’s give you an overview!
Cahra was delighted when she was commissioned to craft a sword, for once without any restrictions. But when she inadvertently awakens the immortal Hael because of her design? A prophecy is set in motion, one which will soon change the world… Hunted for what she’s done, Cahra escapes with Terryl, the man who’d commissioned the sword from her. But not knowing who she can trust, Cahra is caught between vying powers and a brewing war. With Hael visiting her in her dreams, Cahra is lured ever deeper into the workings of the ancient prophecy. Who will emerge victorious in the race to gain the ultimate weapon? Will the lost capital of Hael’stromia finally be restored? And why is Cahra’s heart telling her to stand between Hael and those who are edging ever closer to the black gates?
Who needs space with books like this?!
Happiness Boost:
A Kiss of Hammer and Flame is a sumptuous, decadent romantasy full of incredible world building, character development and plot. But holy guacamole glitterbugs, let’s talk about Cahra… Because this character is *fierce*. She’s so capable with a sword, and so loyal to those she befriends. I’m a huge fan of her! I honestly think Cahra was a paladin in another life, because her moral compass is unwavering. I really enjoyed travelling with her throughout this romantasy, particularly as she wrestles with the choices laid before her. Should she remain true to herself? Or should she abandon those surrounding her once secrets are revealed? Amy de la Force, *you* are an auto-buy author.
Excuse me, but I do believe we need to put A Kiss of Hammer and Flame on some kind of podium. In first place. With a crown. And roses. Because when you get a story *this* captivating, this haunting with a delicious character like Hael? Where do I sign my name for all of eternity to keep reading a romantic fantasy like this?! Give me a permanent marker right now, I’ll do it! The only question you need to ask yourself is if you want a story featuring a morally grey immortal? And obviously the answer is ‘who wouldn’t’, am I right?!
Within A Kiss of Hammer and Flame we are immersed in a tale of darkness, magic and desperate deeds. At no point is there an easy path for these characters to take, and I honestly love that there isn’t. If you’ve been reading these happiness boosts so far and I still haven’t sold you on this story? That’s on me. Because trust me, you *will* fall in love with Amy’s writing as soon as you dive into it!
Downside:
There’s none whatsoever in my eyes, I just have a whole lot of love for this book!
Final Thoughts:
A Kiss of Hammer and Flame by Amy de la Force is an exquisite romantasy featuring morally grey characters, forbidden love and an ancient prophecy. This isn’t just a normal story, glitterbugs. Really, it isn’t. It’s an immersive experience which steals your breath from your lungs and your heart from your body. And I am completely okay with that. So if you love what you’ve heard from my review? Click on either of the links below and pre-order this incredible tale! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can pre-order A Kiss of Hammer and Flame via these links:
