A Curse of Blood & Stone by K. A. Tucker is the second book in the Fate & Flame series and what an awesome sequel. Branded a traitor to the throne, Romeri flees Cirilea. Zander’s decision to escape with her resulted in the loss of his throne to his brother. Tucker delivered a delightful mix of magic, action, suspense, romance and humor in this long-awaited sequel to A Fate of Wrath & Flame.
From internationally bestselling author K.A. Tucker comes the second novel in her Fate and Flame series, an adult fantasy story that should be read in series order. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This post contains affiliate links you can use to purchase the book. If you buy the book using that link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.
Title: A Curse of Blood & Stone
Author(s): K.A. Tucker
Series: Fate & Flame #2
Also in this series: A Fate of Wrath & Flame
Published by Self Published on July 12, 2022
Pages: 485
Genre(s): Fantasy
Source: Valentine PR
Format: eArc 
Purchase: Amazon
Rating: 
“I do not know how to love you and be a good king to my people.”
From jewelry thief to interloper to queen-in-waiting, Romeria flees Cirilea a traitor to all. But the yawning distance between her and Zander troubles her more than any king’s bounty on her head. While Zander may have escaped by her side, he seeks to regain his throne, and no immortal will ever welcome her as Islor’s queen. She fears it won’t be long before Zander abandons her as everyone else she’s ever loved has.
Zander sacrificed his crown to save Romeria’s life, yet he dreads what her existence means for the future of his realm. As Ybaris’s plan to destroy Islor unfurls, a more insidious threat, orchestrated by rival fates, lurks beneath the surface. He can offer his allies no honest explanation for why he protects the Ybarisan princess and takes counsel from Queen Neilina’s caster, leading those closest to doubt his wisdom—and his allegiance.
As their company aims for the Venhorn Mountains, steered by prophecy, Romeria is desperate to wield her newfound abilities to undo Princess Romeria’s treachery before the kingdom tears itself apart. But with the mortal rebellion swelling, bolstered by the gift of Ybaris’s poison, it may already be too late.
A Curse of Blood & Stone picked up from where book one left off. I was worried that I would be lost having read book one more than a little over a year ago. My worries were for naught. As soon as I began reading, it all came back. I enjoyed book one, but A Curse of Blood & Stone was so much better. Action, suspense, adventure, romance, political intrigue and humour all combined made for an exciting and unputdownable read.
While book one focused on the world building, the focus of A Curse of Blood & Stone was on the development of Romeria’s magical abilities. She is the key to unravelling the meaning behind the prophecy, saving the people of Islora and aiding Zander to regain his throne. Hence the need to ensure she honed and control her magical abilities. She came a long way since book one. Her bravery, strength and kindness amid the turmoil she faced showed how great a queen she would make. The perfect person to stand beside Zander when he reclaims his throne.
The story introduces new characters which added depth to this installment. The relationship dynamics between Romeria and Jareck, the guard tasked with protecting her amused me. There was lots of mistrust between the two. However, as the story progressed, the dynamics of their relationship shifted. Soon, they shared a healthy respect for each other.
I loved how Zander and Romeria’s relationship developed throughout the story. Zander is determined to keep his distance, but Romeria is not about to make it easy for him. A force of nature she is and one who will keep him on his toes.
This fun, fast-paced, and page turn story kept me thoroughly entertained from start to finish. This book delivered all I expected and more. My only issue is the wait for the next book, to learn what next is in store for these awesome characters.
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About K.A. Tucker
K.A. Tucker writes captivating stories with an edge. She is the internationally bestselling author of the Ten Tiny Breaths and Burying Water series, He Will Be My Ruin, Until It Fades, Keep Her Safe, The Simple Wild, Be the Girl, and Say You Still Love Me. Her books have been featured in national publications including USA Today, Globe & Mail, Suspense Magazine, Publisher’s Weekly, Oprah Mag, and First for Women. K.A. Tucker currently resides in a quaint town outside of Toronto.
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