REVIEW: The Fiery Heart (Bloodlines #4) by Richelle Mead

Title: The Fiery Heart

Series: Bloodlines #4
Author: Richelle Mead

Publisher: Razorbill

Release Date: November 19, 2013

Pages: 438, Hardcover
Source: Library

Summary from Goodreads:

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

---

• I think one of Richelle Mead’s greatest talents is her character development. Not only are her characters memorable and unique, but the growth they experience over the course of a series is remarkable. Sydney is a perfect example of this. I always liked Sydney because I saw little pieces of myself in her but I wasn’t impressed by her as a protagonist at the start. She was relatively bland and not-fun in Bloodlines, which was a big change after having Rose as a protagonist in VA. But four books later, her character has become much more complex, much more appealing. She still has all the attributes that make her Sydney, but is less robot-like. Her opinions and actions have definitely evolved. Adrian’s character is experience an equally significant transformation, but in the opposite direction. He’s becoming more stable, among other things


• Sydrian <3. This book was largely about their relationship which has finally come to fruition. I am kind of fascinated by their romance because I don’t think two people could be more different yet work together so well. There were some growing pains, a whole lotta sexual tension, but mostly it was just sweet and honest. AND LONG OVERDUE J


• The ending. I knew it was coming but that didn’t make it any less nail-biting. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I have some predictions about what is going to happen. 

---

• Adrian is probably my favorite character in existence. Yes, I love him that much. And I was thrilled to get his POV for the first time. But in the end, I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed in what I saw. I don't mind getting a sensitive, more stable Adrian. I think that is only inevitable when he is with Sydney. But this Adrian was a total bore. I feel like he lost what makes him him. He wasn't snarky, or fun. In fact, his POV made the snark seem like it was always just an act. 


• Also, essentially nothing noteworthy happened outside of Sydney and Adrian's relationship. Really, nothing. And don't get me wrong, I love Sydrian, but I needed more than that. In fact, after 400 pages of nothing but relationship woes, I was almost tired of Sydrian. 

---

I love the world and characters that Richelle Mead created, so I always enjoy reading her books. But if I am being honest, this one was a bit of a let down. It is still a solid read, and I recommend readers to continue because this series does hold promise. Just.. don't have too high of expectations.