Hazel McBride: A Fate Forged in Fire [2025] paperback New

Born to rule. Blessed by fire. Broken by desire. . . In A Fate Forged in Fire, a powerfully blessed blacksmith must use her wits and fire magic to become the first queen in centuries and overthrow the corrupt powers ruling the kingdom while also fighting her desire for her dragon-riding adversary. The first book in a sizzling Celtic-inspired fantasy romance duology. Once a territory built on matriarchal rule, Tir Teine has been without a female heir for centuries. Through a long line of corrupt kings, an oppressive anti-magic teaching has infected the land – leading to the tragic decline of the dragons. Aemyra was born to rule, gifted with fire magic from the Goddess Brigid. For years she has hidden in the shadows, waiting for the king to die so she can bond to his dragon, claim her birthright and protect her people. But when her ambitious plan is foiled, Aemyra is thrust into a vicious game of politics and plots. Her biggest adversary is dragon rider and fire wielder Prince Fiorean. A cold and arrogant member of the royal family, he is everything Aemyra despises. As chaos engulfs the court, Aemyra and Prince Fiorean are forced to forge an uneasy alliance – one that quickly ignites into something more dangerous than either of them expected. Behind enemy lines and slowly falling for her so-called nemesis, Aemyra uncovers the true weight of the crown. How much is she willing to sacrifice to claim her throne?