Fire is a monster. The only living human monster in the Dells. Equally hated and adored, she has the ability to control minds, but Fire knows firsthand the destruction that can be caused by her monster gifts after watching her father, a monster in more ways than one. When Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, she is asked to help uncover a plot against the King. Her power could save a kingdom, but Fire is afraid that to use her powers may unleash a true monster.
A companion novel to Kristin Cashore's Graceling, readers will recognize some names and places, but make no mistake, this book stands on its own. I was told by more than one reader that they couldn't figure out how this book ties into Graceling, which I found an interesting criticism, because I could definitely see what Cashore was doing and how the two storied interlinked. I found it a very interesting and unique way to introduce back story without a bunch of needless back flashes throughout Graceling.
Fire is a strong female character, but her secrets and fear make her vulnerable in a way that I found both endearing and frustrating. I know it must be difficult to live in the shadow of a father as monstrous as hers and yet, I wanted her to realize sooner that she creates her own destiny. Also, Fire's monster abilities can literally cause men to go made, some wanting to rape her while others fall in love with her. This is only heightened if she is on her monthly menstrual cycle and since the story takes place over a period of months, we are definitely given the nitty gritty on that account.
I liked the back story and the introduction of characters, but in the end I don't think I cared about what would happen to Fire only what would happen to the truly evil child who eventually becomes king of the Dells. I am not upset that I read, but I am really looking forward to the sequel Bitterblue, because it is time to find out what happens.
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