Isabella's mysterious pregnancy gives her cause for concern as she ponders what good could come of carrying not one but two children with demonic bloodlines. Long after Blaze and Kaida come into the world, they must come to terms with the dramatically different paths their lives would take as they grow to maturity. Can they break away from their dark origins or will they become the new pawns in the ongoing war between good and evil where the battle lines are not as simple to discern as one may think? Only time will tell in Children of Fire: The Chosen, Book 2, the latest in the series by Brandy Marks.

Populated with some famous characters associated with the Bible who take on roles drastically different from what we might expect, then adding elements of folklore, ramped up the intrigue in this unusual novel. Credit must go to Brandy Marks for creating a story that lived up to my basic expectations. The characters are well-fleshed out and their motivations seem obvious enough while the conversations between them are revealing once you get used to their flowery construct. What stands out for me though is the attention to detail. From the descriptions of the mythical creatures to the graphic nature of the battle scenes, it is evident that Marks made an extra effort to bring a colorful story to life. Karaban's antics easily stood out for me with the developing romantic relationship between him and Kaida making an interesting subplot. Children of Fire is an entertaining novel that would hold its own in the fantasy genre quite well.

Children of Fire is book two in The Chosen series by Brandy Marks. While a few audience favorites make an appearance, this novel picks up after Isabella ultimately follows the storylines of Kaida, Blaze, and Isadora. The fate of these three seemed to be determined before their birth, which makes for an interesting but complicated turn of events. Join these characters on their journey into adulthood with a coming-of-age story, on their quest for love, and witness how their newfound bonds are tested.

If you are a lover of fantasy and epic world-building, I highly recommend Children of Fire by Brandy Marks to fellow readers! Each setting was beautifully created, which left no question in my mind. I liked how Marks connected each of the worlds presented by tunnels so to speak. This brought me the image of Norse mythology’s Bifröst; even though it exists outside planet Earth, it serves as a bridge to another world. Additionally, there is character development we can see occurring, not only in Kaida, Blaze, and Isadora but Isabella as well. I feel that she was so young when she became a mother, with no one really to rely on. And when help came, she feared it was a little too late. I loved seeing how this independent and strong woman was able to let her guard down and accept the help being offered. This resonated with me and I think this sends a very powerful message to all young, strong, and independent women. Well done, Brandy Marks!