by Cecy Robson
Series: Weird Girls #7, Flame #1
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Rating:
Heat Level:
Taran Wird holds the unique ability to conjure fire and lightning. 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 . .
After the events in Of Flame and Promise, I could hardly wait to jump into Of Flame and Light the seventh novel in the Weird Girls urban fantasy series by Cecy Robson. When you begin, reading Of Flame and Light the rest of the world will slip away. Action-packed with heart, growth, and supernatural awesomeness it is time to get a little witchy!
While Robson does a wonderful job of recap as the story unfolds, I have to recommend reading the series from the beginning to experience everything from character and relationship growth to the supernatural community of the Lake Tahoe Region. For my part, I have kept this as spoiler free as possible.
A little time has passed since the previous novel and we find Taran Wird struggling with her new limb. Although mated to Gemini, second in command of the Squaw Valley Were Pack the two are estranged. Her newly acquired limb and magic seem to be clashing and the arm is giving her fits. It was hard to see our kick-ass, snarky diva down and out. Always the fashion queen she does the bare minimum for her sister’s sake. When her arm goes out of control, Aric takes her to the local coven. The events that unfold will have you flipping the pages, laughing, banging your head in frustration and screaming like a banshee.
Taran, Bren, Emme, and Shayna go on a mission to retrieve a witch and end up in a battle to save themselves. Creepy, suspenseful and action packed, Robson’s imagery was stellar. I could almost spell the rot. This adventure ends with Taran acquiring a new pet and having to attend witchy classes.
I absolutely loved time spent within the coven. Potter fans will love this adult version of Hogwarts with classes, spells and more. We meet some of the lesser witches and spend time with the Supreme Witch. Who apparently has to work closely with s certain wolf and this causes Taran all sorts of misery. Sorry, no more details but you all know Taran. Can you see her taking this quietly?
Taran really struggles in Of Flame and Light and our little diva goes through some serious growing pains. Her sisters are there to help but aside from a few scenes, this storyline focuses on Taran, her magic, romance, and growth. Taran makes some observations about Emme and a certain wolf that have me itching for their story. Our favorite vamp makes an appearance and teases us with things yet to come.
Of Flame and Light mixes intense action scenes with humor, character growth, and heart. Robson blended them perfectly creating an ebb and flow to the tale that was addictive. While the story has as much action as previous books, it has a polish that can be attributed to the author’s own growth. I am excited to see where that leads us.
For fans of the series and those just joining, Of Flame and Light was another addictive, heart-stopping edition to the Weird Girls series.
Read an Excerpt
Dirt. All I sense is that and dank heaviness that accompanies a . . . cave? Through the fog taking up residency along my brain, I make out a dim glow.
It takes me a moment to realize it’s coming from my light-saber arm. I push up on my hands, grimacing when my fingers sink into the soil. Yet it’s what I see when I glance up that has me scrambling to my feet.
A lonely hand scuttles by me, chasing after a rat. Oh, but it gets better. I press my back against a dirt wall as a foot hops by, chasing after the hand, that’s chasing after the rat, with a decapitated head rolling —I shit you not—merrily behind them.
It’s like some kind of fucked up nursery rhyme. I don’t want to know the next verse, especially not with the collection of zombies gathering from all sides. These are different from the ones who pulled us onto shore. Their grisly faces are more emaciated and their bodies are in a more advance stage of decomposing. As they shuffle toward me, pieces of their skin fall in small moist clumps.
I hold out my hand. “Stay back.”
They collectively moan.
And move closer.
I grit my teeth, summoning that spark from deep in my core. The dank air seems to enclose around me, giving me a chill and snuffing out my inner heat.
Shit, shit, shit.
On wobbly legs, I slide my back against the dirt wall, my hands out. The zombies gather closer, cocking their heads, their empty sockets mesmerized by the glow of my arm. At first, I think they’re simply curious. But then their short thick tongues push forward, appearing to lick what’s left of their lips.
I jump when another hand scrambles by, its pinky brushing against my foot. My back presses against the dirt wall as I slide against it. I’m not sure where to go. I only know I can’t stay here.
I bang my fists against the wall, trying to stimulate my fire. My left hand doesn’t react, tensing uselessly. But that spark I so need triggers from my right arm, igniting flames along the path of my blue veins only to putter out.
Come on, light.
It's time to get witchy with Taran, Of Flame and Light by Cecy Robson Share on X*Disclosure: I am currently assisting this author and received my copy for free. However, if you follow my blog you know I am a long time fan and working with her did not influence my opinion.
Paij Slater
Kim, Kim, Kim….book 7? Really? Can they be read as stand alones? You keep getting me into more and more series. Of course I could refrain, but I think blaming it on you is far more fun :)….I kid…I kid.
kimbacaffeinate
While yes, I think you could read maybe six and seven together and be ok, I wouldn’t recommend it. You lose some of the emotional connection that comes from reading from the beginning.
Laura Thomas
She can split into two wolves. Now that’s something new. Such a lovely cover too! I think I just might go garb it!
kimbacaffeinate
No, she cannot but a character can. If you look at the names mentioned in my review, I bet you can guess how.
Laura Thomas
Aah, it’s Gemini!
kimbacaffeinate
Hehe…nailed it!
kimbacaffeinate
I hope you do, the books and characters will get to you 🙂
Bookworm Brandee
I’m so happy this series continues to be so entertaining, Kim. I really must make time to start it! 😀
Debbie Haupt
I knew you liked her Kim and I’ve seen her work around the blogosphere and this one looks really good. Thanks!
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, this is a favorite series. Thanks Debbie 🙂
AngelaReadingCa
I adored this one! Seriously brings all the feels, even ugly tears. I wanted to hug Taran so many times. As well as face punch a certain witch.
kimbacaffeinate
I am so glad you enjoyed this as well. Ha, yeah she did make me a little witchy!
The Bibliophile Babe
I’ve been seeing a lot of this one!
kimbacaffeinate
Yay, I am glad it is getting some attention.
Lorna
I so need to continue on with this series. Every time I see another review for a new book by her I kick myself! Great review 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
LOL, I have a few series where I am behind and kick myself too!
Katherine
I’ve been hearing all kinds of glowing praise for this series and this review is the last straw. I really must try this series!
kimbacaffeinate
I hope you try them Katherine. 🙂
Cecy
Thank you for taking the time to read, review, and feature OF FLAME AND LIGHT, Kim. And many thanks for all your hard work. I actually had no idea you read it and am happy you enjoyed it. <3
kimbacaffeinate
Of course, I read it. I read and love all of your books…that will never change. Now when do we get Emme’s story?
Angela
Wonderful job on the review. I really enjoyed this one too and man did I feeling for Taran. I’m excited for Emme and a certain wolf too. I can’t wait for the next installment. Totally a fun and emotional series to read.
kimbacaffeinate
Oh me too…the wait is the killer!
Angela Adams
“It was hard to see our kick-ass, snarky diva down and out.” — Love your descriptive adjectives! Thanks for the post.
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Angela I hope you had a wonderful Monday 🙂
Heidi
I really loved this one too. I am glad to see that Taran found her way again. Looking forward to more.
kimbacaffeinate
I am glad you loved it. I really want Emme’s story and what is up with our vampire?
Tyler H. Jolley
Dang, that’s a giveaway of epic proportions. Thanks for the expert and awesome review, Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
Thank you Tyler. My site is steady now, but still waiting to move host this week. Fingers-crossed.
Kristin
My heart specifically broke for Taran! And OMG, I so need Emme’s story SOOOOO quickly. I thought I saved an email from Cecy where she spelled out how many books she had left for Taran and how Emme’s book(s) would go but I lost the email and now I’m crying b/c I MUST know!!! I don’t want to bug Cecy b/c she probably mega busy author now, blah, blah, blah. But isn’t Cecy the nicest person ever???
YUP, I’m drinking coffee and babbling… sue me. You wrote a fantastic review and I’m excited to relive the story 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I want Emme’s story too Kristin. Hmm, I will ask her about that. I love Cecy..dream job 🙂
Cecy
Just email me, Kristin. I’ll be happy to tell you. <3
blodeuedd
Such awesome things you can win
kimbacaffeinate
Isn’t it cool, thanks Linda 🙂
Genesis
Wait, adult version of Hogwarts?!! Uh sign me up!! This sounds so brilliant! I hadn’t heard of this series before so I have to check it out now. Great review!
Genesis @ Latte Nights Reviews
kimbacaffeinate
Hahaha yes, in this book but I would love a whole book on the school.
Melissa (Books and Things)
This is one of those series that has gotten away from me but I want to read every time I see a review. I so need to get started and I want to go to an adult Hogwarts school! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I hope you do, I love the series and so do a lot of our friends. Yes I would attend the school 🙂
sherry fundin
I love that cover. As an author, how much input do you have in the final product. Great review, Kim.
kimbacaffeinate
In this instance a lot, some have no control.
Sophia Rose
Oh yeah, this one definitely falls in the unputdownable category. I was so glad to see this story address the estrangement, her limb, and the ‘mission’ and witch school were just fantastic extras. And as usual, can’t wait to see what comes next.
Great review, Kimberly!
kimbacaffeinate
I loved the witch school..so cool.
Mary Kirkland
I haven’t been reading this series but it sounds like one I’d enjoy.
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, I could see you enjoying it. It begins with Cursed Embrace.
Cecy
*cough, cough* Sealed with a Curse 😉
kimbacaffeinate
*smacks forehead*
Quinn's Book Nook
I’ve heard good things about Cecy Robson, but I haven’t read any of her books. I’m not sure I would like this one, but I’m glad that you enjoyed it.
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks, Quinn, I know paranormal, and urban fantasy isn’t your thing, but I love her contemporary romances too.
Stormi
Always wanted to try this series but just not got around to it. Sound good though! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Time to play catch up Stormi!
rae
My goodness, her last name is WILD…and that cover! Your review was delightful and very well written. I’ll bet you drew new readers to the series!
kimbacaffeinate
Her last name is Wird. She is one of four sisters who were cursed.
Kim
This sounds like a great addition to the series and fun, witchy magic that’s perfect for a October read. I know many of you adore this series, so I’m thrilled you enjoyed it, Kim! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Thank Kim, yes I love how emotionally invested I have become in the series and its characters 🙂
Nick
I’m really glad that everyone is enjoying this series so much, Kim. It makes me even more motivated to catch up. Taran sounds like she’s her lovely self here and I can’t wait to know more about her and her new abilities. Wonderful review, Kim
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Nick. I adore Taran and her attitude. I hope you catch up soon!
kindlemom1
I really do adore this series and I can’t wait to get more from these sisters!
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed Ali. I am anxious for more!
Ailyn Koay
I can see why you are a fan, the story sounds amazing!
kimbacaffeinate
It really is. The story and characters take up residence inside your heart 🙂
Christy LoveOfBooks
lol – Taran doesn’t take anything quietly an that’s why we love her.
kimbacaffeinate
Hehe..so very true!!
Melliane
I agree with you, I really enjoyed this one as well, a great addition to the series!
kimbacaffeinate
Yes, and of course she left us begging for more!