Blog Tour – These Feathered Flames by Alexandra Overy

**Disclaimer: I was given a free ARC in exchange for an honest review from as part of a tour from TBR and Beyond Tours.**

Tour Schedule

Title These Feathered Flames
Author Alexandra Overy
Release Date April 20, 2021
Date Finished April 20, 2021

Description

Content warning: Death of a parent, On page emotional abuse, References to physical abuse, On page death, Fantasy violence.

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.

Initial Thoughts

I was so excited to be chosen for this tour. This book sounded so fantastic. I love Russian folktales and didn’t realize how much I wanted this retelling of “The Firebird” until I started reading this book.

Some Things I Liked

Dual POVs and twins! I love stories of siblings and I love multiple POVs. The contrast between Izaveta and Asya was so interesting as they learned to navigate their strained relationship and rebuild trust that was lost a long time ago. I also loved that they were not together for many scenes so the world building and plot felt richer when they were separated, and narrating different things at the same time.
The romances. I loved both of the romance plots. They were subtle and understated but oh so important to the story (and also very different from each other). Both Izaveta and Asya found themselves drawn to people they didn’t expect to be and the banter that ensued was perfect. I think I’m more partial to Asya’s love story as I love enemies to lovers.
Complex history and world building. I have to applaud the author’s ability to build a complicated political structure and a rich world in such a small amount of time. I feel like I understand the world but ache to know more about it. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

Series Value

That ending. I need book two IMMEDIATELY! It should go without saying that I plan to continue to read this series. The ending hurt but it was so worth it! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for these characters.

Final Thoughts

I loved the mythology and world building in this book as well as the dynamic between the main characters. I knew I’d like it, but I really loved this story and can’t wait to read whatever else Alexandra Overy wants to write.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Recommendations for Further Reading