Juliette Cross has written one of my favorite paranormal romance series and when I saw that she was writing a romantasy series, I was all for it! This is a fast paced book set in Ancient Rome with lots of spice and intrigue!
Malina has lost her family, her home and now she is a captive of the Romans, when the Roman general saves her. She is now a slave into his home but she soon realizes that the great warrior has many secrets that will endanger both.
Julian is the nephew of the depraved emperor, he leads an army killing all that stays in his way but the fierce girl calls to his dragon inside of him. His dragon immediately considers Malina his and he will do anything to keep her.
I really liked Malina’ s character. She is a witch with the ability to control others’ emotion and although, she is strong, she is not cruel.I would have preferred for her talent to be more explored. Julian is a dragon shifter and brutal and you cannot justify all the murders of the innocent people but his goal is to kill the emperor, so it is common for Ancient times. I loved his kindness towards his slaves and how different was into his home.
I am not a fan of insta-lust/ love even though these two are mates, so I would have liked to see more tension and build up into their relationship. I love good banter and animosity and these two were all in instantly despite the fact that they are sworn enemies.
I loved that this book was set in an alternate Ancient Rome which was unique and I am curious about the secondary characters that seem to get their own story.
Firebird is a nice start to this series and hopefully, the next book will get us more action, political twists and turns and undeniable love!
