Book Review for Heir of Storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray

 Storm Weaver #1

Heir of Storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray

Published:  June 3, 2025 by Roaring Brook Press

Genre:  Fantasy, Young Adult, Romantasy

Taken from Goodreads:  RED QUEEN meets SHADOW AND BONE in this explosive start to a YA romantasy trilogy about dangerous magic, forbidden love, and a cut-throat competition for the throne in an empire where crowns are not inherited -- they're won.

The very day Blaze came into the world, she almost drowned it. A Rain Singer born into one of the most powerful fire-wielding families in the empire, Blaze's birth summoned a devastating storm that left thousands dead. She's been hidden away ever since with a dark secret: the same torrential power that branded her an outcast disappeared that fateful day. And she’s not sure she wants it back.

When an unexpected invitation arrives for Blaze and her twin brother, Flint, to compete as future rulers of the empire, she’s suddenly thrust into the limelight again -- and into battle. Threats abound at the Golden Palace, where intrigue and romance await with not one but two handsome suitors: the enchanting Crown Prince and a dangerously alluring newcomer at court.

As Blaze explores her untapped power, she discovers the throne may be within her grasp. But in order to take it, she’ll have to leave behind the stories that others have told about her, and find the courage to write her own.

My Thoughts:  I devoured this 416 page young adult romantasy book in less than 36 hours and it only took me that long because I had to sleep.  I did not want to put the book down.  The characters became my friends, their story became mine, and I was invested in who would be the future rulers. 

Blaze experienced so much loss in her young life, but she is a character full of love for her family and strength.  It is a strength that she gave herself, a strength that she received from the few around her who see her and love her.   She goes into the battle of her life feeling powerless but she has more power than she knows and has the strength within her to make a difference. 

The relationships between those who go into battle are intense.  Those against Blaze were especially hateful but I felt it was fear of the unknown…Blaze.  The romance, sigh.  I looked forward to those small scenes and love how it played out.  I cannot wait to see what will come next.   This is a series that I cannot wait for more of.  Lauryn Hamilton Murray is a new to me author and I cannot wait to see where she will take the reader in book 2 of this series.

Thank you Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

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