Step into the swashbuckling world of Steel and Fire, where duels spark, magic simmers, and a young heroine carves her destiny in a kingdom teetering on the edge! Jordan Rivet’s gripping fantasy series whisks readers to Vertigon, a mountaintop realm of misty peaks and fiery secrets. Follow Dara Ruminor, a fierce duelist with dreams bigger than her family’s lantern shop, as she tangles with royal intrigue, a charming prince, and dangers that threaten her world.
Blending heart-pounding swordplay, slow-burn romance, and political machinations, Steel and Fire offers a fresh spin on young adult fantasy. It’s a tale of grit, loyalty, and uncovering hidden strengths—perfect for fans of Throne of Glass or A Knight’s Tale craving adventure with a side of wit.
How Steel and Fire Began
Jordan Rivet, a fantasy enthusiast and former fencer, crafted Steel and Fire to blend her love for swordplay with rich world-building. Self-published in 2016, the series kicked off with Duel of Fire, inspired by Rivet’s desire to create a strong female lead who wields a rapier, not magic—at least, not at first. Drawing from her college fencing experience, Rivet infused authenticity into the dueling scenes, making Vertigon’s spectator-sport culture feel vibrant and real.
Rivet’s vision was to build a medieval-inspired world with modern dialogue, appealing to YA readers who love action and romance. The series grew from a single novel into a five-book saga, fueled by fan enthusiasm and Rivet’s knack for weaving complex characters into a magical setting.
The Heart of Steel and Fire
The series begins with Duel of Fire, where Dara, an 18-year-old duelist, trains with Prince Siv, a cocky yet duty-bound heir. As assassins target Siv, Dara uncovers Vertigon’s fragile peace, forcing her to protect him—despite his infuriating charm. King of Mist follows Dara as a Castle Guard, grappling with newfound fiery abilities and royal conspiracies. Dance of Steel escalates the stakes, with global conflicts and cur-dragons (adorable, fiery creatures) adding epic flair. Later books, City of Wind and Night of Flame, dive deeper into Dara’s powers and Vertigon’s fate, culminating in a war to save the continent.
Steel and Fire shines through its themes of resilience, loyalty, and self-discovery. Dara’s journey from a determined athlete to a world-shaping hero resonates with readers, while the slow-burn romance with Siv keeps hearts racing. Vertigon’s misty cliffs, suspension bridges, and Fire magic create a vivid backdrop, blending medieval grit with fantastical allure. Rivet’s witty dialogue and diverse cast—think quirky duelists like Vine Silltine or steadfast princesses like Sora—add depth and charm.
The series’ style is addictive, balancing intense dueling sequences with political intrigue and emotional growth. It’s less about sprawling world-building and more about intimate character arcs, making it a cozy yet thrilling read for fantasy fans.
Why Steel and Fire Resonates
Steel and Fire has carved a niche in YA fantasy, earning praise for its relatable characters and immersive setting. Fans on Goodreads and Reddit rave about Dara’s tenacity and the “will-they-won’t-they” tension with Siv, comparing it to The Princess Bride for its humor and heart. The series’ focus on a female duelist as a professional athlete, not just a warrior, feels refreshingly modern, inspiring readers who love strong, driven heroines.
Its lasting appeal lies in its balance of action, romance, and intrigue, wrapped in a world that feels alive yet accessible. Rivet’s ability to craft a complete fantasy saga in five books makes it a binge-worthy gem for readers seeking a satisfying journey without a decade-long commitment.
- Publication Years: 2016–2018
- Number of Books: 5 (Duel of Fire, King of Mist, Dance of Steel, City of Wind, Night of Flame)
- Narrator (Audiobooks): Caitlin Kelly, produced by Tantor Media
Ready to clash swords and uncover secrets? Grab Duel of Fire and dive into Steel and Fire’s thrilling fantasy world!