She was taught to stay small.
Now becoming what she fears might be the only way to survive.
After years of isolation, control, and carefully crafted lies, a violent public incident forces Irma Hagtorn to flee the only life she’s ever known. With nothing but hidden memories, dangerous magic, and a pull she can’t explain, she crosses into a kingdom she’s only read about.
But Irma’s presence draws attention—and not all of it human.
A godlike entity known as The Shadow is already moving against her, turning allies into enemies as his influence tightens in the shadows.
Irma was never meant to have anyone at her side.
Yet she isn’t entirely alone. Åsa—once her closest friend—and Brand, Åsa’s brother—reckless, infuriating, and impossible to ignore—refuse to leave her behind, while Henrik, steady and sharp-eyed, becomes someone she never expected to trust. What begins as necessity slowly becomes something far more dangerous: people she might lose.
But Irma’s magic is growing stronger—and more unpredictable. When those she’s come to trust are put in danger, survival is no longer enough.
To save them—and herself—she must embrace the very magic she was taught to fear…
or risk becoming the thing they already believe her to be.
The Rising Flame blends Nordic folklore–rooted worldbuilding with psychological elemental magic. It will appeal to readers who crave emotional, character-driven fantasy where power and identity are two sides of the same wound.
Tropes include:
Reluctant found familyChildhood friends to loversTrauma recovery arcSlow-burn awakening of powerGodlike villain obsessed with the heroineNordic folklore–inspired worldbuildingA survival journey that becomes destiny
