Her Hidden Fire

Brought to you by Penguin.

The first book in a searing new romantasy trilogy, perfect for fans of A LANGUAGE OF DRAGONS and THE PRIORY OF THE ORANGE TREE.

If he has the ability to wield magical powers, everyone will rejoice – especially the girl who loves him.
But what happens when they realize she has the gift?

In a world where dragons stalk the skies and magical abilities are an elite privilege, the ruling family of Ailm’s Keep is on a knife edge: can Ionáin, the heir apparent, channel magic, or will the family be cast out and replaced?

So when Éadha, a servant girl who loves Ionáin, discovers that she can draw power, she finds herself in grave danger. It’s extremely rare for a girl to have this talent, and certainly never outside the great families. At Ionáin’ s moment of truth, Éadha makes a desperate gamble – a trick – to save him, Ailm’s Keep, and herself. But how long can this ruse last?

Sent to the very heart of the Masters’ control, Éadha and Ionáin enter a whirlwind of patriarchy, class, jealousy and heartache, as Ionáin must make a suitable match and Éadha finds herself undeniably attracted to the enigmatic Gry. Here they also learn the true, terrible cost of channelling magic – a price the Masters willingly pay.

How far would you go to empower the one you love?

© Clíodhna O'Sullivan 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026

Reseñas de la Crítica

Pacey and gripping at every turn, this is a thrilling fantasy about power and patriarchy.

A complex web of magic, feminism, sexual desire, Irish folklore and, of course, dragons – this will leave fans desperate for the next in the trilogy. (Sally Morris)

Riveting, romantic and thought-provoking, this chunky YA fantasy interrogates patriarchy, power-hoarding and the myths by which injustice sustains itself. (Imogen Russell Williams)

O’Sullivan deftly interweaves Irish-mythology-inspired worldbuilding with dystopian fantasy trappings to deliver an intriguingly dark romance.

Brimming with intrigue, romance, and peril, this fast-paced fantasy sweeps readers into a world of impossible choices and breathtaking twists that will leave them racing toward the end. A lush and compelling debut.

O’Sullivan’s Irish-inspired fantasy creates a lush landscape filled with magic and deceit that readers will be eager to uncover. Highly recommended. (Emily Walker)

O’Sullivan doesn’t shy away from exploring the human cost of magic and how far patriarchal societies will go to indoctrinate the next generation. This story will captivate any romantasy reader and have them eagerly awaiting the sequel. (Stacey Shapiro)

An excellent start to a new trilogy. (Anna Bonet, "The 14 best new children's books for spring 2026")