Glow of the Everflame Audiobook – The Kindred’s Curse Saga, Book 2

Some evenings call for the kind of story that sweeps you so completely into its world, you forget your tea has gone cold beside you—Glow of the Everflame is exactly that sort of listen. I settled in with this audiobook after a long week, ready to lose myself somewhere else entirely, and Penn Cole’s richly layered sequel did not disappoint. As someone who craves stories with both heart and high stakes, Diem Bellator’s journey felt deeply satisfying: part perilous adventure, part aching romance, all told against the backdrop of a world brimming with magic and intrigue.

From the outset, I was gripped by how deftly Cole increases the tension—not just politically (with looming war threatening everything Diem cares about), but also personally. The devil’s bargain Diem strikes with House Corbois had my pulse quickening; every conversation felt like stepping onto ice that might shatter at any moment. What struck me most—and what lingered even after I finished listening—was how fluidly Cole explores moral ambiguity. In real life as in fiction, it’s rarely easy to discern friend from foe; through Diem’s eyes we’re invited to question old certainties and lean into empathy for even those characters we’d love to hate.

I’ve always admired audiobooks where narration becomes an extension of character rather than just a reading. Amanda Dolan delivers on this front beautifully: her portrayal captures Diem’s fire and vulnerability in equal measure, while giving distinct voices to allies and adversaries alike. There are moments when Dolan channels such dry wit or suppressed longing in dialogue that I actually laughed—or caught my breath—out loud (much to my partner’s amusement). Her pacing balances urgency with lyricism; nothing ever feels rushed nor drawn out.

The evolving romantic triangle here sizzles with slow-burn tension—a special treat for fans who enjoyed book one but craved more emotional complexity! Both love interests feel fully realized, offering genuine chemistry rather than tired tropes; their banter had me grinning one minute and sighing wistfully the next. But even more compelling is how these relationships force Diem (and us) to confront questions about loyalty and identity: Who are we without our histories? What do we owe ourselves versus our communities? It reminded me a bit of pivotal crossroads from my own twenties—the bittersweet choices between comfort and growth.

As immersive as the politics are—with mythical creatures lurking beneath every alliance—I especially loved how personal secrets ripple outward throughout Glow of the Everflame: mysteries surrounding Diem’s mother are revealed just enough to tantalize without frustrating cliffhangers. The Guardians’ demands add another thread of suspense without overwhelming other plotlines—a tricky balance well-handled by both author and narrator.

If there was anything less stellar for me, it would only be that some side characters seemed ripe for further exploration (perhaps something future installments will tackle). The world-building continues at such a high level though—it never feels confusing or forced—and overall pacing makes these 20+ hours fly by much too fast!

In sum: Glow of the Everflame stands out as an emotionally resonant fantasy romance that refuses easy answers but rewards close listening. Whether you’re already invested in The Kindred’s Curse Saga or arriving fresh alongside Diem herself, this installment offers an unmissable blend of danger, desire, wit—and above all else—a heroine worth rooting for until her last stand.