From Goodreads:
A queer retelling of “The Firebird,” a Russian folktale
When twin heirs are born in Tourin, their fates are decided at a young age. While Izaveta remained at court to learn the skills she’d need as the future queen, Asya was taken away to train with her aunt, the mysterious Firebird, who ensured magic remained balanced in the realm.
But before Asya’s training is completed, the ancient power blooms inside her, which can mean only one thing: the queen is dead, and a new ruler must be crowned.
As the princesses come to understand everything their roles entail, they’ll discover who they can trust, who they can love—and who killed their mother.
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
"Izaveta's gaze caught on the serene face of Saint Lyoza, the girl who'd made a bargain with a witch to grow claws and then gouged out the eyes of those who wronged her. A woman who refused to crumble beneath what people expected."
I need someone to please tell me I'm getting book two today.
I don't know what I love more- the beautiful writing, the relentlessly addictive plot, the uncertain, loyal and complex bond between Iza and Asya, the enemies-to-lovers slowburn romance I'm very much invested in, Nikov (I LOVE him) or the richly-imagined Russian-inspired setting.
Alexandra Overy weaved a complicated and addictive story steeped in Russian folklore and culture. The idea of twins being born and modeled into predetermined, opposing roles is intriguing. Izaveta and Asya were forced to grow apart to play their respective parts in a future they didn't choose. Iza modeled herself a mask with a cold detachment that sees other people as chess pieces. Asya grew up questioning her ability to take up the mantle of being a Firebird. These two are vastly different from each other. But what they do have in common is their irrepressible strength to try to do what's right and stand by their people, and the loyalty and love they have for each other.
Everything about These Feathered Flames was impossible not to love! This is a four-hundred-page book that is filled to the brim with magic, political intrigue, strong female MCs, complicated relationships and vibrant worldbuilding.
This reimagining of The Firebird is AMAZING. Why has everybody not read this yet?!? I need more people to fangirl with!
I received an ARC to read and review.
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