Aria has come a long way since the first book but she is still trying to get a control on her powers and now she has more power than one person should have and it just may be too much for her. But with her growing feelings Declan may just be the only thing that can keep her grounded and in control of her powers if not then she could level a city.

Branded by Fire is the best one yet (and the other 3 books in the series rock!).

As Aria's powers to continue to manifest stronger and stronger, the prophecy of her destroying the city becomes more evident. The only person who can truly calm her and keep her from hurting herself and other is Declan, her bonded mate. As the story progresses we see a different Aria and Declan than we've seen in other installments and I must say - I love them! Sure, Aria is struggling against the bond; she didn't agree to it after all, but there is a definite shift (no pun intended) between Aria and Declan.

While Aria is trying to figure out her feelings for Declan, her evil mother is using psychological methods to try and manipulate her. Aria's mother is playing games and planning for something huge that involves all of the shifters surrounding Aria. As a group, it's up to everyone to figure out what that plan involves and how to stop it before it starts.

The books in the Blook & Magic series are fast paced and easy to follow. Aria isn't the perfect heroine - in fact, she's extremely flawed. True to the series, Aria is reckless and impetuous, acting before she thinks about the potential consequences, and is historically unable to ask for help because she has the "I can do anything" attitude. Strong and independent is great but putting yourself in harms way to prove a point is just reckless. Her actions in Branded by Fire could have cost her everything because she jumps in guns a blazin' without regard to the situation or circumstance. Fortunately, she has a small group of devoted men who are there to back her up.

I really enjoy the world created by Danielle Annett in the Blood and Magic. I like the continued development of the world the series is based in and the characters that run across the pages. Her attitude toward Declan changes as she begins to realize that he's not there to control her but support her in a way that she's not used to being supported. There are action sequences that deliver and keep the reader engaged. The book is full of action, fast paced, and twists and turns abound!

You have to read the previous books to fully understand the world. I was able to pick up on what had happened, but knowing the previous books would have been appreciated.

I liked it. Moved fast. Aria is struggling with being mated to Declan and her new powers. A few life and death situations that cause them to admit how they feel about each other. A quick read, with an interesting world built up.

A big thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. First time reading this author. I took a chance since this is number four in a series. It does not read well as a stand alone. Once you get the premise it's actually an enjoyable book. It was a fast read and no true resolution. Not a ton of romance mostly paranormal. I would recommend starting with the first book.