Review: Her Hidden Fire

Éadha, a servant girl, would do anything for her best friend, Ionain. The future of Ailms Keep relies on Ionain and whether or not he has the ability to channel power. So, when Éadha discovers that she possesses the gift to channel magic - but Ionain doesn’t - she hides her gift and allows everyone to believe the power is his.

In a world where the nobility control the narrative, and the lower class are just pawns, Éadha must learn to hide and control her forbidden magic or there will be devastating consequences.

When the pair are sent away to an island to train among the elite and learn how to wield their power, Éadha begins to question the world she has been thrown into. She soon realises that the magic the kingdom values so highly comes with a far darker and deadly cost than anyone is willing to admit.

It admittedly took me a little while to be fully absorbed into this fantasy world, but once I was - I became captivated, and found the book to be a real page turner. Once it picked up speed, around a third of the way through, I couldn't put the book down. 

The story was full of action, drama and romance, with an array of interesting characters and villains. I am so invested in Éadha's story, and found her strength, resilience and empathy inspiring. I can't wait to read the next book and to re-enter this magical world. I am hoping for more dragons and adventure so I can truly immerse myself in Ailms Keep. 

It is important to note that there are some confronting scenes of a sexual nature, so I would only recommend this book to mature YA readers, or teens aged 15+.

I look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy, as it ended with a major cliffhanger!

Congratulations to ClÍodhana on a wonderful debut novel.

Title: Her Hidden Fire
Author: ClÍodhna O'Sullivan

Publisher: Penguin, $19.99

Publication Date: 5 March 2026

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9798217040506

For ages: 15+

Type: Young Adult Fiction