Wednesday 17 October 2018

Two Dark Reigns (Three Dark Crowns Series, book 3) 

By Kendare Blake


Blurb: 
Katharine sits on the throne, Mirabella and Arsinoe are in hiding, and an unexpected renegade is about to wage a war of her own. The crown has been won, but these queens are far from done.

Review: 
It seems like I have been waiting ages for this book, and then I had to post pone it because I couldn't get to Waterstones in tome for the release was just pure torture. I have been waiting for this book for so long so I had quite high expectations and I'm pleased that they definitely met my expectations.

The book first started off 400 years before the current 3 Queens, when the war queen was giving birth to the Queens. I found this chapter very interesting as you actually discover about the birth of the Blue Queen. To discover how the world coped with this was also quite interesting.

After reading the rest of the book I really appreciated the first chapter more because it seemed to be giving you an insight of what the main story line of the book was going to be about or at least the main topic of conversation between the main characters.

It then starts of with a present moment of Queen Katharine being painted for her Queens portrait which she seems to be struggling with because she does not see how she can be made to look beautiful when she says she is not. I found this quite arrogant if she was actually pretty but because I imagine her as not so beautiful then I sort of forgive her. But then again several thousand people are in their body who are beautiful but do not feel beautiful. So I understand if she has a slight image wrongness/mental illness. Can't think of the proper word for describing her seeing herself worse than she actually is. (Lauren update - I believe Sammie is describing someone distorted body image).

I'm not too sure how I felt about the main character in this book being Jules, she is a great character and has developed quite a lot but I'm not sure if she deserves it yet. With her being the main character I did actually enjoy the reading and the little twist some of her war friends are putting in to the story. So it quite interesting to read to see how the three sisters react to the news about Jules. 

I also found it really interesting how the book carried on with Arsinoe, Mirabella and Billy once they were on the mainland. I also felt the connection that Arsinoe was getting fitted into the story really well. As she had left Fennbirn after doing quite a lot of low magic, so it only made sense for her to be the character choice of contact and for this part of the story line to fit in perfectly, as she does do anything for her sisters and friends that she loves to protect like any person does to an extent when they care for them.

The action within the book is also quite dramatic, but it does definitely fit with the story line, and for the mist to make another appearance and effect the lives of the people on Fennibirn island was quite interesting, as it seemed like history was repeating itself. When in fact it was just the past speaking to the future in a way to help certain people. 

I loved the aspect of Arsinoe going into dreams and being Daphine in them as I felt these two characters were so similar in personality and the actions they do to ensure that they get the ones they love to safety or to prevent them from getting hurt. 

The ending of this book is just another story waiting to happen. In a way I'm pleased it was another cliff hanger, it's a shame that I have to wait potentially another year. But I suppose that just gives me another reason to reread the rest of the series.

Within this book I did think that the characters had developed even more which I didn't really think was possible, but obviously it was. I was quite happy with how the characters were before this book started, I felt like I connected to them. But now I suppose we are getting a better understanding of Jules and the war gifted people. This is a good thing in a way and I feel sorry for Jules because I'm not 100% she wants to be the person they are forcing her to be. It would be nice to have a private conversation between her and Arsinoe as I feel she would tell her how she feels and why she is doing it.

I have a feeling in the last book we may find out the growth of Fennbirn Milone. Also maybe what actually happens with Katharine because she seems to be getting out of control with the dead Queens inside her. I wonder who else comes across them and discovers her true secret. 

In a way I hope Katharine dies as I'm not a huge fan of her, but we will see, only time will tell.

This book is 100% a must read an if it is not on your TBR you have to get it on there now. The whole series from start to now has been amazing and the story line has been so great and twisted with so many little twists that you would never think possible. Each book keeps captivating you more, the whole thing is really well written and is easily read.

This book is perfect for anyone who loves adventure, well wrote book/series, great scenery, great characters and excellent twists throughout that keep changing as your reading.


Favourite Characters: Arsinoe

Read: 08/10/18 - 12/10/18

5 stars out of 5
Written by Sammie
Check out Sammie's review of book 4: Five Dark Fates

Two Dark Reigns (Three Dark Crowns Series, book 3) 

By Kendare Blake


Blurb: 
Katharine sits on the throne, Mirabella and Arsinoe are in hiding, and an unexpected renegade is about to wage a war of her own. The crown has been won, but these queens are far from done.

Review: 
It seems like I have been waiting ages for this book, and then I had to post pone it because I couldn't get to Waterstones in tome for the release was just pure torture. I have been waiting for this book for so long so I had quite high expectations and I'm pleased that they definitely met my expectations.

The book first started off 400 years before the current 3 Queens, when the war queen was giving birth to the Queens. I found this chapter very interesting as you actually discover about the birth of the Blue Queen. To discover how the world coped with this was also quite interesting.

After reading the rest of the book I really appreciated the first chapter more because it seemed to be giving you an insight of what the main story line of the book was going to be about or at least the main topic of conversation between the main characters.

It then starts of with a present moment of Queen Katharine being painted for her Queens portrait which she seems to be struggling with because she does not see how she can be made to look beautiful when she says she is not. I found this quite arrogant if she was actually pretty but because I imagine her as not so beautiful then I sort of forgive her. But then again several thousand people are in their body who are beautiful but do not feel beautiful. So I understand if she has a slight image wrongness/mental illness. Can't think of the proper word for describing her seeing herself worse than she actually is. (Lauren update - I believe Sammie is describing someone distorted body image).

I'm not too sure how I felt about the main character in this book being Jules, she is a great character and has developed quite a lot but I'm not sure if she deserves it yet. With her being the main character I did actually enjoy the reading and the little twist some of her war friends are putting in to the story. So it quite interesting to read to see how the three sisters react to the news about Jules. 

I also found it really interesting how the book carried on with Arsinoe, Mirabella and Billy once they were on the mainland. I also felt the connection that Arsinoe was getting fitted into the story really well. As she had left Fennbirn after doing quite a lot of low magic, so it only made sense for her to be the character choice of contact and for this part of the story line to fit in perfectly, as she does do anything for her sisters and friends that she loves to protect like any person does to an extent when they care for them.

The action within the book is also quite dramatic, but it does definitely fit with the story line, and for the mist to make another appearance and effect the lives of the people on Fennibirn island was quite interesting, as it seemed like history was repeating itself. When in fact it was just the past speaking to the future in a way to help certain people. 

I loved the aspect of Arsinoe going into dreams and being Daphine in them as I felt these two characters were so similar in personality and the actions they do to ensure that they get the ones they love to safety or to prevent them from getting hurt. 

The ending of this book is just another story waiting to happen. In a way I'm pleased it was another cliff hanger, it's a shame that I have to wait potentially another year. But I suppose that just gives me another reason to reread the rest of the series.

Within this book I did think that the characters had developed even more which I didn't really think was possible, but obviously it was. I was quite happy with how the characters were before this book started, I felt like I connected to them. But now I suppose we are getting a better understanding of Jules and the war gifted people. This is a good thing in a way and I feel sorry for Jules because I'm not 100% she wants to be the person they are forcing her to be. It would be nice to have a private conversation between her and Arsinoe as I feel she would tell her how she feels and why she is doing it.

I have a feeling in the last book we may find out the growth of Fennbirn Milone. Also maybe what actually happens with Katharine because she seems to be getting out of control with the dead Queens inside her. I wonder who else comes across them and discovers her true secret. 

In a way I hope Katharine dies as I'm not a huge fan of her, but we will see, only time will tell.

This book is 100% a must read an if it is not on your TBR you have to get it on there now. The whole series from start to now has been amazing and the story line has been so great and twisted with so many little twists that you would never think possible. Each book keeps captivating you more, the whole thing is really well written and is easily read.

This book is perfect for anyone who loves adventure, well wrote book/series, great scenery, great characters and excellent twists throughout that keep changing as your reading.


Favourite Characters: Arsinoe

Read: 08/10/18 - 12/10/18

5 stars out of 5
Written by Sammie
Check out Sammie's review of book 4: Five Dark Fates

Friday 12 October 2018

The Caged Queen (The Iskari Series, book 2)

By Kristen Ciccarelli


Blurb: 
Once there were two sisters born with a bond so strong that it forged them together forever. When they were angry, mirrors shattered, and when they were happy, flowers bloomed. It was a magic they cherished—until the day a terrible accident took Essie’s life and trapped her soul in this world.

Dax—the heir to Firgaard’s throne—was responsible for the accident. Roa swore to hate him forever. But eight years later he returned, begging for her help. He was determined to dethrone his cruel father, under whose oppressive reign Roa’s people had suffered. Roa made him a deal: she’d give him the army he needed if he made her queen.

Together with Dax and his sister, Asha, Roa and her people waged war and deposed a tyrant. But now Asha is on the run, hiding from the price on her head. And Roa is an outlander queen, far from home and married to her enemy. Worst of all: Dax’s promises go unfulfilled. Roa’s people continue to suffer.

Then a chance to right every wrong arises—an opportunity for Roa to rid herself of this enemy king and rescue her beloved sister. During the Reliquishing, when the spirits of the dead are said to return, Roa can reclaim her sister for good.

All she has to do is kill the king.

Review: 
This review will be slightly different as I'm actually going to be discussing the cover of the book too. I'm slightly disappointed that it is only available in paperback in the U.K. I know Lauren ordered it from the US to get the hardback to match her FairyLoot book which I really wish I done but to be honest I'm quite happy with the paperback. The cover is so similar to the first which I like and since the paperback is almost the same size as book one which was hardback I find that more comforting. The cover is fitting for the book as it shows a person kissing a feather, which I assume is Roa kissing on her sisters feathers (Essie). This I find quite sweet because you can clearly see the love in the cover after reading the book.

The start of the book starts with a story in the past being told (the Skyweaver knife). I won't go into too much detail about it, but basically it is a knife which can be used to bring someone back if their soul hasn't crossed and the reason they died is still alive. The story is quite fitting to start off with considering the circumstances of Essie which you discover more going throughout the book. 

It then goes on to a scene where Roa and Dax are in a meeting trying to discuss the new terms that Roa wants to be put in place for the scrublanders. Which is when you discover that Dax couldn't care less and seems really laid back. But Roa is thinking now that something is in writing that he has signed to help her people, so things will be okay as he has to abide by it.

The story throughout the rest of the book is really interesting and is fast paced. There is quite a few twists that come along the way and there is a lot of betrayal that happens in the book. The betrayal and twists make it more interesting though and want to make you keep reading.

At the start of the book I didn't like Dax because I thought he was just a cheater sleeping around with every other girl, eventhough Roa said she didn't want to sleep with him ever. I still felt bad for her because she seemed to be upset with his actions, which made me think she did actually have feelings for Dax and Theo.

Later on in the book you discover more about Dax and the reason why he does these things, also you discover the true him which totally changed my opinion on him altogether. I now actually respect him and understood why he did those things, he is quite a smart guy with loads of tactics and reasons behind his actions.

Roa also changes her opinion on him and Theo which is interesting to see how this opinion changes. It also makes me feel sorry for her because she starts to feel terrible for the way she feels towards these characters.

The heartbreak within this book is quite touching and you most definitely need some tissues. I won't go into too much detail, but it is really not the heartbreak that you are expecting, for what Roa has to do and what she actually does I am amazed and quite proud that she is so strong.

The characters within this book mainly change their personalities which is good because it's like real life not one person stays the same the whole way through life with experiencing several different circumstances throughout.

For this book to be set on a different main character was really good it was different, not what I was expecting. But it was nice to see the point of view from the Queen and King's view to understand the problems that they were having to face, while trying to protect the people they loved the most.

The ending of the book I felt was perfect because all the questions I had were answered. Also to find out why the book was actually called what it was, was great it made me feel complete. So I don't really know what the third book will be about. I don't know if it will be from Roa's point of view or if it will be Asha's, but either way I'm really looking forward to the next one. I also really wonder what will happen in this last book too, as I really can't see what will happen unless it's what Asha has being doing since she went on the run.

I'd 100% recommend this book to anyone that loves adventures, twists, betrayal, old tales, sisterly love. But I'd definitely have some tissues nearby. 


Favourite Characters: Dax

Read: 01/10/18 - 07/10/18

5 stars out of 5
written by Sammie


The Caged Queen (The Iskari Series, book 2)

By Kristen Ciccarelli


Blurb: 
Once there were two sisters born with a bond so strong that it forged them together forever. When they were angry, mirrors shattered, and when they were happy, flowers bloomed. It was a magic they cherished—until the day a terrible accident took Essie’s life and trapped her soul in this world.

Dax—the heir to Firgaard’s throne—was responsible for the accident. Roa swore to hate him forever. But eight years later he returned, begging for her help. He was determined to dethrone his cruel father, under whose oppressive reign Roa’s people had suffered. Roa made him a deal: she’d give him the army he needed if he made her queen.

Together with Dax and his sister, Asha, Roa and her people waged war and deposed a tyrant. But now Asha is on the run, hiding from the price on her head. And Roa is an outlander queen, far from home and married to her enemy. Worst of all: Dax’s promises go unfulfilled. Roa’s people continue to suffer.

Then a chance to right every wrong arises—an opportunity for Roa to rid herself of this enemy king and rescue her beloved sister. During the Reliquishing, when the spirits of the dead are said to return, Roa can reclaim her sister for good.

All she has to do is kill the king.

Review: 
This review will be slightly different as I'm actually going to be discussing the cover of the book too. I'm slightly disappointed that it is only available in paperback in the U.K. I know Lauren ordered it from the US to get the hardback to match her FairyLoot book which I really wish I done but to be honest I'm quite happy with the paperback. The cover is so similar to the first which I like and since the paperback is almost the same size as book one which was hardback I find that more comforting. The cover is fitting for the book as it shows a person kissing a feather, which I assume is Roa kissing on her sisters feathers (Essie). This I find quite sweet because you can clearly see the love in the cover after reading the book.

The start of the book starts with a story in the past being told (the Skyweaver knife). I won't go into too much detail about it, but basically it is a knife which can be used to bring someone back if their soul hasn't crossed and the reason they died is still alive. The story is quite fitting to start off with considering the circumstances of Essie which you discover more going throughout the book. 

It then goes on to a scene where Roa and Dax are in a meeting trying to discuss the new terms that Roa wants to be put in place for the scrublanders. Which is when you discover that Dax couldn't care less and seems really laid back. But Roa is thinking now that something is in writing that he has signed to help her people, so things will be okay as he has to abide by it.

The story throughout the rest of the book is really interesting and is fast paced. There is quite a few twists that come along the way and there is a lot of betrayal that happens in the book. The betrayal and twists make it more interesting though and want to make you keep reading.

At the start of the book I didn't like Dax because I thought he was just a cheater sleeping around with every other girl, eventhough Roa said she didn't want to sleep with him ever. I still felt bad for her because she seemed to be upset with his actions, which made me think she did actually have feelings for Dax and Theo.

Later on in the book you discover more about Dax and the reason why he does these things, also you discover the true him which totally changed my opinion on him altogether. I now actually respect him and understood why he did those things, he is quite a smart guy with loads of tactics and reasons behind his actions.

Roa also changes her opinion on him and Theo which is interesting to see how this opinion changes. It also makes me feel sorry for her because she starts to feel terrible for the way she feels towards these characters.

The heartbreak within this book is quite touching and you most definitely need some tissues. I won't go into too much detail, but it is really not the heartbreak that you are expecting, for what Roa has to do and what she actually does I am amazed and quite proud that she is so strong.

The characters within this book mainly change their personalities which is good because it's like real life not one person stays the same the whole way through life with experiencing several different circumstances throughout.

For this book to be set on a different main character was really good it was different, not what I was expecting. But it was nice to see the point of view from the Queen and King's view to understand the problems that they were having to face, while trying to protect the people they loved the most.

The ending of the book I felt was perfect because all the questions I had were answered. Also to find out why the book was actually called what it was, was great it made me feel complete. So I don't really know what the third book will be about. I don't know if it will be from Roa's point of view or if it will be Asha's, but either way I'm really looking forward to the next one. I also really wonder what will happen in this last book too, as I really can't see what will happen unless it's what Asha has being doing since she went on the run.

I'd 100% recommend this book to anyone that loves adventures, twists, betrayal, old tales, sisterly love. But I'd definitely have some tissues nearby. 


Favourite Characters: Dax

Read: 01/10/18 - 07/10/18

5 stars out of 5
written by Sammie


Saturday 6 October 2018

FairyLoot - September 2018 

Theme: Starcrossed Swoons 

Items: 
  • Bella and Edward Candle by Nerd Poured Candle
  • Pythian Shoelaces by Fictiontea Designs
  • Constellation Notebook by Read At Midnight
  • Dreamer Apron by Literacy Life Co
  • Love Rune Enamel Pin by Fictiontea Designs
  • Angelic Fire Candle Matches designed by Fictiontea Designs
  • Swoon-worthy Postcard set by Taratjah
  • Mal and Alina Cocoa & Shea Butter
  • Mirage by Somaiya Daud
Review: 
So the theme was Starcrossed Swoons. I could tell instantly before looking at any other details that I would end up getting this box. A common theme from the books I read is that there is some form of love involved, usually triangles or forbidden. Then I read it would include items themed with Twilight and The Mortal Instruments which just confirmed my need to purchase.

I said in my last box that it was the most value for money so far. Well I would now say so far this box has definitely been the most value for money. They managed to top the previous month box, which I thought wouldn’t be possible. Although I loved my August box, this one was even better since I’ve read some of the books the items were based on.

The first item I saw when I opened the box was the Bella and Edward Candle. The candle was white with red glitter on top, which I guessed was to symbol blood for this being a vampire series. The scent of the candle was crisp apple, pine and cedarwood. I love this scent, it reminds me of christmas and so far has been my favourite. 

A unique item in the box was shoelaces. I didn’t expect that, I haven’t read the book they were based on. It was A Court of Thorns of Roses by Sarah J.Maas, it is on my to read pile though. I would have loved the laces more if they were the mortal instruments themed item but either I do like the design and quite like them so they are already on my shoes. The laces seem to come undone easily but I think that’s just because they’re new.

The most unexpected item was the Dreamer Apron. It’s such a beautiful designed item and I love to bake so I have no doubt I will use it soon but I do know it fits lovely. I just find it amazing to have and thats without me knowing the origin of the quote. The quote is from Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor and I just love the design and the quote.

The Love Rune Pin I loved instantly. I just liked the smart choice of the rune and how its really nice to add to my collection on my book cover. It was based on the Shadowhunter books, so I just can’t help but love it. There was also a second Shadowhunter item of matches with the Fire rune on the packaging. I loved them too and used them to light the candle. My only problem with these two items are they aren’t the most exciting but they are still really nice and this box was filled with great stuff. 


A nice item included was a notebook, which was perfect timing since I just started University. The notebook has a pretty design, sadly though it is plain paper rather than lined but I think that is to make it more flexible for people uses so I still appreciate it. It has a similar design to the apron and it’s based on the book Star-touched Queen, which I also plan to read. I just appreciate it. 

The box also contained a set of postcards which had couples from the series. I’ve put the one of Emma and Jullian from The Dark Artifices on my wall as it’s cute and I love the couple. I’ve kept the other postcards and if I enjoy those books I will add them too. Pretty design. 

The odd thing in this box was the Mal and Alina cocoa and shea butter. It has a nice smell and doesn’t irritate my skin but the info card provides no information about it. I don’t know what book it’s based on, I just know it’s by Little Heart Gifts because of the label. Very odd to leave it off the card but I do like it.


Finally the book, this month’s book was Mirage by Somaiya Daud. It’ll be a while yet till I get round to reading it but when I do I will make sure to upload a review of it. The book was hardback which I always prefer and it had the edges sprayed a pretty purple. I love the colour purple and it’s been the best sprayed edges so far. Inside the book was signed by the author. It looks like a great book and hopefully I will read it soon.


This was an amazing box and way better than my expectations. I don’t currently have another box lined up and no idea when I will buy another but I would love to.

Rating: 5 runes out of 5
written by Lauren



FairyLoot - September 2018 

Theme: Starcrossed Swoons 

Items: 
  • Bella and Edward Candle by Nerd Poured Candle
  • Pythian Shoelaces by Fictiontea Designs
  • Constellation Notebook by Read At Midnight
  • Dreamer Apron by Literacy Life Co
  • Love Rune Enamel Pin by Fictiontea Designs
  • Angelic Fire Candle Matches designed by Fictiontea Designs
  • Swoon-worthy Postcard set by Taratjah
  • Mal and Alina Cocoa & Shea Butter
  • Mirage by Somaiya Daud
Review: 
So the theme was Starcrossed Swoons. I could tell instantly before looking at any other details that I would end up getting this box. A common theme from the books I read is that there is some form of love involved, usually triangles or forbidden. Then I read it would include items themed with Twilight and The Mortal Instruments which just confirmed my need to purchase.

I said in my last box that it was the most value for money so far. Well I would now say so far this box has definitely been the most value for money. They managed to top the previous month box, which I thought wouldn’t be possible. Although I loved my August box, this one was even better since I’ve read some of the books the items were based on.

The first item I saw when I opened the box was the Bella and Edward Candle. The candle was white with red glitter on top, which I guessed was to symbol blood for this being a vampire series. The scent of the candle was crisp apple, pine and cedarwood. I love this scent, it reminds me of christmas and so far has been my favourite. 

A unique item in the box was shoelaces. I didn’t expect that, I haven’t read the book they were based on. It was A Court of Thorns of Roses by Sarah J.Maas, it is on my to read pile though. I would have loved the laces more if they were the mortal instruments themed item but either I do like the design and quite like them so they are already on my shoes. The laces seem to come undone easily but I think that’s just because they’re new.

The most unexpected item was the Dreamer Apron. It’s such a beautiful designed item and I love to bake so I have no doubt I will use it soon but I do know it fits lovely. I just find it amazing to have and thats without me knowing the origin of the quote. The quote is from Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor and I just love the design and the quote.

The Love Rune Pin I loved instantly. I just liked the smart choice of the rune and how its really nice to add to my collection on my book cover. It was based on the Shadowhunter books, so I just can’t help but love it. There was also a second Shadowhunter item of matches with the Fire rune on the packaging. I loved them too and used them to light the candle. My only problem with these two items are they aren’t the most exciting but they are still really nice and this box was filled with great stuff. 


A nice item included was a notebook, which was perfect timing since I just started University. The notebook has a pretty design, sadly though it is plain paper rather than lined but I think that is to make it more flexible for people uses so I still appreciate it. It has a similar design to the apron and it’s based on the book Star-touched Queen, which I also plan to read. I just appreciate it. 

The box also contained a set of postcards which had couples from the series. I’ve put the one of Emma and Jullian from The Dark Artifices on my wall as it’s cute and I love the couple. I’ve kept the other postcards and if I enjoy those books I will add them too. Pretty design. 

The odd thing in this box was the Mal and Alina cocoa and shea butter. It has a nice smell and doesn’t irritate my skin but the info card provides no information about it. I don’t know what book it’s based on, I just know it’s by Little Heart Gifts because of the label. Very odd to leave it off the card but I do like it.


Finally the book, this month’s book was Mirage by Somaiya Daud. It’ll be a while yet till I get round to reading it but when I do I will make sure to upload a review of it. The book was hardback which I always prefer and it had the edges sprayed a pretty purple. I love the colour purple and it’s been the best sprayed edges so far. Inside the book was signed by the author. It looks like a great book and hopefully I will read it soon.


This was an amazing box and way better than my expectations. I don’t currently have another box lined up and no idea when I will buy another but I would love to.

Rating: 5 runes out of 5
written by Lauren



Monday 1 October 2018

The Last Namsara (Iskari Series, book 1) 

By Kristen Ciccarelli


Blurb: 
In the beginning, there was the Namsara: the child of sky and spirit, who carried love and laughter wherever he went. But where there is light, there must be darkness—and so there was also the Iskari. The child of blood and moonlight. The destroyer. The death-bringer.

These are the legends that Asha, daughter of the king of Firgaard, has grown up learning in hushed whispers, drawn to the forbidden figures of the past. But it isn’t until she becomes the fiercest, most feared dragon slayer in the land that she takes on the role of the next Iskari—a lonely destiny that leaves her feeling more like a weapon than a girl.

Asha conquers each dragon and brings its head to the king, but no kill can free her from the shackles that await at home: her betrothal to the cruel commandant, a man who holds the truth about her nature in his palm. When she’s offered the chance to gain her freedom in exchange for the life of the most powerful dragon in Firgaard, she finds that there may be more truth to the ancient stories than she ever could have expected. With the help of a secret friend—a slave boy from her betrothed’s household—Asha must shed the layers of her Iskari bondage and open her heart to love, light, and a truth that has been kept from her.

Review: 
This book starts of with a scene that is forbidden within the kingdom. Asha the main character is telling old stories to the dragons, this is to entice them near her so she can can kill them. She is away from the rest of her team because she does not want them to know she can no longer kill a dragon without telling it a story.

But by speaking the old stories to the dragons it makes them stronger and the person telling them weaker. When a dragon becomes stronger they are able to breathe fire once again.

This is how Asha got the scar on her face and down her body she was hurt by the first dragons fire. But once again she ends up getting burnt and someone turns up asking that she go see her father straight away.

Asha is then enticed by her fathers offer to not marry the man she hates. So she tries her best. But the thing is a lot of things seem to be getting in her way and stopping her from doing the task she really wants to do.

Throughout this book there is forbidden romance and quite a few historic myths with the dragons and her people.

While reading this book I enjoyed reading about the present life and then the past told through one of the old stories. There was a great amount of detail for the scenes and characters. You felt connected to the whole book and I really wish that we hadn't had to wait a year for the second book: The Caged Queen.

This book felt perfect, there was quite a bit of action, forbidden love, brotherly love and hierarchy.

Throughout the book there is a few twists which you start to make sense towards the end. You also discover who the enemies are and who the friends are.

I'd 100% recommend this book to anyone that likes twists, forbidden love and families. 

This is my second time reading it, my rating and opinion of the book has increased and it has went higher up my recommended list. I'm not sure why it's actually changed if I'm being honest. I just feel like I can relate more to the characters now and appreciate the situations they all get in. I also really enjoy the forbidden love now and know what happens to them in the future.

Another thing that I really enjoyed about the old stories being separate from the chapters was that it allowed you to put time frame stamps on them and also understand the meaning of something happening to the main character, so I thought they really fitted in with the story and made them come alive.


Favourite Characters: Torwin

Read: 25/09/18 - 30/09/18

5 stars out of 5
written by Sammie
Check out review of book 2: The Caged Queen