Breaking the rules was the only way in. Death is the only way out.I thought I knew danger, but the Equinox Trials? They are vicious. Cruel. And they hide a secret that can change the very fabric of our world.
A secret that the priests will kill to keep hidden.
Between the perilous tests, rivals’ ambushes and the truths lurking in shadows, one thing becomes love isn't just a feeling, it's our pack’s only hope of survival.
But can love truly overcome the darkness awaiting us on the trial grounds… and in our pasts?
Dragons’ Mate takes place in Lunos, the world of Alex Lidell’s best-selling Power of Five novels. Expect spice, fated-mate bonds, powerful dragon shifters, and a fake relationship that turns all too real. One-click order now!
Alex Lidell is the Amazon Breakout Novel Awards finalist author of THE CADET OF TILDOR (Penguin) and several Amazon Top 100 Kindle Bestsellers, including the POWER OF FIVE romance series. She is an avid horseback rider who believes in eating dessert first. She writes as both Alex Lidell and A.L. Lidell.
Dragon’s Mate is book three in the Her Royal Dragon Pack series by Alex Lidell.
Kit is in the trials now to be a bride with multiple groups playing against her and her dragons.
This one had a lot of surprises and an evil plot. We actually learn a lot and have a lot of erotic times. We also have a surprise at the end and a cliffhanger.
I still had trouble reading this one. It had some one scene a BDSM in front of an audience and forced sex. It’s a bit much for me.
Dragon’s Mate was ok, but again I won’t be reading again and I won't be finishing the series. I’m done. Just not for me.
This opens as the other ends, almost like in between chapters. After all of the books are done, a single omnibus edition is needed for seamless reading, but that’s normal for Lidell’s writing. She is consistent like that.
We get a little more action and development of plot and characters in this one. And we get the bigger, secondary plot right at the end. All the hints are there for those willing to pick them up and some of it was eluded to at the end of the previous book.
I like how Lidell tells a story, I like how she writes smut, and I like and dislike that her characters are turning out to be the same collective set as the ones in Power of Five. From a familiarity point of view, it’s easy to read about characters that you already “know”, like reading fanfiction, but this series did start out with these men behaving very differently. They have become the 4 fae from her pervious Lunos series more and more, and that’s a bummer. These dragons need their own development and history, same with Kit. She deserves to have a different origin story than Lera did (if you remember Lera was also orphaned and living as an abused indentured servant aka slave when her men found her).
I am also not sure about the amount of inspiration that other popular dragon/fae romance fantasy books may or may not have had on this. Parts of it feel directly influenced by Fourth Wing and a significant part of it has that blended with elements of ACOTAR. As someone having read both of those books, it was obvious as I was reading this to see it there, though the writing and details of the situations are different, it at least felt derivative.
Overall, I like it still. The twists aren’t OMG surprises but they are inventive and the story is engaging.
Until Next Time, MC.
Thank you to the author and BookSprout for access to an eARC of this book. This is my honest review.
This series keeps getting better and better! So much goes on in this third installment of the series that I couldn’t put the book down. Dragons Mate picks up where the last book ended. Relationships cement and new ones are made. Book ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s bearable. Looking forward to the 4th book!
Alex’s never disappoint when it comes to angsty reverse harem fantasy! They way she writes is so immersive that i kept on imagining and drawing the trials throughout my reading. On to the final book!!
What a wild ride, and I loved every minute of it. The first 2 books of the series introduces the characters and the plot . . . The Immortal Trials that will determine the fate of dragons. The first book was all about finding our heroine, Kit. The second book was about preparing her for the trials. This book is the pack competing at the trials against 30+ other packs. These trials make Hunger Games look like child's play though. I mean, when you add in magic and dragons of course it's going to leave Hunger Games in the dust, but I'm here for it. We also meet with 4 prince's father, and what an epic asshole he is. Albeit a very handsome one.
I want Ms. Lidell to teach a class on how to write an effective heroine, because so many authors GET. IT. WRONG. When they go for strength, they end up with bitchy. When they go for vulnerable, they end up with insipid and it all ends up spoiling what could otherwise be a good story. That is not the case here. Ms. Lidell has written a perfectly splendid character in "Kit." She is strong, especially given the circumstances of her life - but she never descends into harridan territory. She is vulnerable at times, and you will feel it in your soul, but she never sinks into self-pity. I find strength in someone who is completely overwhelmed or terrified, yet they pull up their big girl panties and just do what needs to be done. That is the very definition of our Kit. And she has such a sarcastic mouth, her comebacks will have you literally laughing out loud. On more than one occasion, my husband wanted to know what was so funny.
This book does end on a cliffhanger, and at the time of this writing, I have to wait a couple of months for the final book in the series. And you better believe that I will download that book the very moment it is released. Do I recommend the series? Hell yeah.
Worldbuilding: We start this installment straight after the cliffhanger of the previous one, woohoo! As this is the third book of the series, we know quite a bit of what's going on in the world, but we will still face some exciting twists and turns in this book! Scenes and environments were well described and detailed enough to relax and enjoy the ride (cause, omg, what a ride!).
Character development: In this installment, we mainly follow Kit and Quinton, with the rest of the group joining up later on. Without spoiling everything (well, trying to!), I can say that a simple bite changes everything haha. Kitterny is getting a little fed up with Quinton's hot and cold attitude, while he wants to keep her safe from harm (and away -but not really- from him, too). When Kitt decides to join the Trials, they can only pray that she has learned enough to stay alive. As you read the book, you'll notice the growth everyone has gone through, not just for themselves, but as being part of a group. There are some significant revelations about the characters in this installment. Did not see that coming, to be honest :D Characters (both main and side characters) are well fleshed-out and feel alive; they are a pleasure to read!
Pacing and flow: It's go time from the start :D With some necessary breathing room now and then. But be advised to not plan anything when you're going to read this book cause it only let me go at the end! There is a good balance between all the action and conversations.
The book: The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. It has spicy scenes (if that is important to you), but then again, so did the previous installment :) It has 221 pages, spread over 29 chapters, and is told from multiple points of view.
Final thoughts: I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, and I'm really enjoying this series! It keeps me on my toes while giving me everything I want in a book. We have drama, action, romance, spicy scenes, and facepalm moments... What more would you want? The characters are interesting, and the story is well-paced... the only thing I don't like... are the cliffhangers :( Why would you do this to us? I can't wait for the next installment! But yeah, if you're in the mood for a good reverse harem and don't mind the cliffs, pick this one up!
WARNING! Cliffhanger! This rates a pretty high 5/5 on my trauma scale, but the next book is not yet out. Fortunately, despite the high trauma rating, some pretty interesting things happened shortly before the end, and may well be enough to temper this.
Kit is determined to keep her word, because she knows that the dragon princes have the best chance of success with her at their side during the equinox trials. Now she’s got to sneak into the trials and take her place without anyone noticing before it’s too late. The trials are a means to an end, with determined and desperate dragons teamed up with humans; many of them willing and able to do anything to win. The one group they need to beat above all others, might just be the one group with the most lethal participants.
This book unlocks a number of secrets and mysteries for Kit, and exposes some dangerous lies being told by powerful people. There’s a lot of action and adventure for our MCs, as they start to come together more as a pack. Her time with the princes had given Kit confidence (though perhaps not much wisdom!) and it shows in her relationship with the dragons- an edge they need.
This is an engrossing read, the cliffhanger ending not really a surprise, and the character development seems… promising. I’m looking forward to finding out more answers, and seeing what fate had in store for our quint, once the final book is released!
This is an enthralling read for the RH fantasy fan, but is definitely a steamy one, so consider yourself warned.
I love this series more and more with each new book that's being released! "Dragons' Mate" is the third book in "Her Royal Dragon Pack" series, and I absolutely loved everything about it. This book finally brings Kit and her men to the trials they need to face, but the real trial seems to be something they didn't anticipate. With dangers looming everywhere, they have to fight for their lives multiple times, and the only way to do that is to become a true pack and fight together.
I absolutely love the world building of this series, the silent power Kit holds over herself and her men, and the hilarious interactions between her and Quinton. They bring out both the best and the worst in each other, and it's fun to watch them grow closer together while never losing the original connection they have. Kit has a unique relationship with every one of her four men, and I believe that's precisely what a great reverse harem series needs to have.
The writing style of this series still throws me out of the story sometimes; the switch between first and third person's POV is something I have to get used to again every time I start a book in this series. Still, the story is so good I can't let it bother me. I can't wait to find out how their story continues in book four!
A wonderful read, wonderful story and characters that hold you riveted This is a Simply wonderful read the characters have been beautifully written and the scenario will hold you transfixed as you read this wonderful next chapter in the series that I have so far thoroughly enjoyed every one equally and this as the same. It is apparent that the only way you were able to gain entry as to break the rules and the in so doing it seemed that there is no way out from this world other than to die and no one had made it apparent what exactly the Equinox Trials had been and as more is understood it is apparent that there are many secrets. It is apparent that if the pack is going to survive it may be simply down to their actual feeling for each other as pack members, it is a very nervous and highly changed and high risked game they are playing and can only hope for the best. I assure you that you will love every moment of this book it is simply a fantastic read. I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Equinox Trials are so much more intense than Kit even imagined. The brutality surpasses her worst nightmares but she is determined to keep her humanity and not join in the violence when it can be avoided. Her care of others draws the ire of the priests who set their sites on her destruction. But along the way, Kit discovers the priests aren't what they proclaim to be. She discovers a secret that can change the course of the world. But first, she must survive the Trials and the priests.
Hunger Games, dragon edition. I'll admit this is an entertaining series, however, I struggle with the author's writing at times. She changes perspective for no reason and sometimes within the same paragraph. First and third person are interchangeable with second person thrown in for added variety every once in a while. I can't believe an editor didn't catch this. Beyond the writing, the characters are good, the world-building could be improved, and the pacing and action are excellent. The big reveal wasn't shocking because of the hints. If you hate cliffhangers I suggest waiting for the final book release. This author prefers shorter books with cliffhangers. If you enjoy the tease, like dragons, a cutthroat competition, and a sassy heroine, this is the series for you.
Fantastic 3rd book in "Her Royal Dragon Pack" series
This is a fantastic read that I haven't been able to put down. I love how the chapters are written either from Kit's POV or looking at one of the dragon's POV. The chemistry between Kit, Quinton, Tavais, Cyril and Hauck is wonderful and there's action, drama, heated romance, secrets, discoveries and some MASSIVE twists in this the 3rd book in the "Her Royal Dragon Pack" series by Alex Lidell
Having bonded with the dragon in the pack she believes hates her the most, Kitterny returns to the palace to be accepted and sworn in to take part in the trials. But once at the trial grounds nothing is what is seems and the pack will need to fight for their lives with dangers at every turn.
The world Kit is finding herself in is wonderfully created, I loved the interaction between her and her pack and how she's slowly discovering the power she has with her dragons. The ending is wonderful with the pack truly bonding together; I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book “Dragons’ Future”.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have been following this on Vella as Lidell writes every chapter, and it's been another level of hell cause each chapter has a reveal or stops at the moment. Then, you have to wait seven days for the new chapters. That being said, it was lovely to sit down and read this cover to cover.
We pick back up with Kitterny sneaking into the ceremony, and her dragons have no idea that Quentin has brought and mated her. I love that she's a badass right out of the gate. She's bold and brave and looks out for the other women. There's a huge steamy scene near the end that is done well. I also loved the big reveal and honestly didn't see that coming. It could be because I have read only a few weekly chapters since June. So, my brain hasn't had time to think ahead beyond the cliffhangers.
l love Lidell's writing and the men she creates for her FMCs. I can't recommend this series enough, especially if you are a fan of Power of Five. Autumn appears in this series as the group fights to save the dragons. She brings her intellect and knowledge to the Scooby gang.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love all Alex Lidell's series. I was quite eager to read what happens to Quinton after getting shot with an arrow. What happens now that Quinton has claimed Kit as a mate? He's still struggling with it but he can't help but be possessive of her. Swoon, it's always the growly one. :)
We get to see the start of the bride trials (finally) and of course there's always that one conniving female that will do anything that takes to win.
It's a quick read. I have some small gripes though. I really wished we can have Hauck, Tavias, and Cyril fleshed out a bit more. I really can't tell the difference between them all.
Power of Five is still my favorite of all her series. But this is may be the second! I'm looking forward to reading the next book. Hope that she mates the other guys and for the readers to get to know their personalities a bit more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh my, oh my. I’m so hyped up on this book and series I literally got mad because it ended way too soon. I so wanted to jump right into the last book of this fantastic series .
In this book we have Quinton who is newly bonded to Kit while everyone is trying to kill her. Then add to the mix that Quinton, Hauck, Tavias, Cyril and Kit have to compete in the trial games where everyone is out to kill Kit, and this is where all hell breaks loose. Also, the reason why they want to kill her is an OMG moment and makes this series even more interesting.
This is a must read series if you like sexy, strong, dominant dragon shifters with a whole lot of twists and turns, and a lot of hot chemistry and a kick ass heroine her makes her dragons even for deadlier! This is a must series for you.
In closing, I’m trying to be patient for the conclusion of this wonderful series, but I want their HEA now!
Very action packed. I was dumbfounded when the realized I completed the book. Kit is really growing into the confident and resilient women that she wasn’t in the beginning. This book had me going through all sorts of emotions from being in suspense, from laughing my behind and off because of how Kit dealt with certain situations humorously especially when she was briefly kidnapped. Happy that she has made a new friend, mad at her circumstances and how the “establishment “ is out to get her. I am looking forward to the next book, I want to see her growth and how she thrives and survives challenges she faces with the help of her mates.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Amazing! Adventure. Suspense. Romance. Political Intrigue. Some spicy spicy scenes. This book has it all.
Kitterny is mated to a dragon. Once she believes hates her. However, she doesn’t realize how deep the feelings actually go. And that stands true for all four of them.
Choosing to go back into the trials as their bride starts a chain of events that can never be undone. As she faces more and more danger. She uncovers more and more secrets. Along with a deeper relationships with her dragons.
I loved everything about this book except for having to wait for the next one after that cliffhanger!! Man it’s brutal. Looking forward to the conclusion of the story with bated breath.
I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Not sure about this one. It's like she's come back very very sassy in book 3 and the men are not alpha anymore. So after all that carrying on about wanting to win the trials, to save the humans, the heroine decides to make a nuisance of herself by publicly questioning the priests. With no research or care about the dragons traditions banking on that she has the princes to back her....... Yeah hmmmm.
What really made me not like her was Shadow couldn't even stand up and was bleeding everywhere. Yet she thought it was a good time to have a make out session with the other MMCs not help him. The core values of the heroine are not the same as book 1 & 2. It doesn't read like character growth but one of those heroines on a power trip.
Kit and her dragons have entered the Trials. Kit wants to win to protect humans. The dragon princes want to win to save their race. Kit is hurt many times. Her dragons try to support her but other contestants want her dead. Then they must discipline Kit in front of everyone by showing the priests that Kit can successfully mate with them. The priests have their own agenda and it is not to help the dragons. There is a surprising development with Kit. Will this help or is death the only option to end the trials. Sadly it is going to be a long six months until we find out! I enjoyed this book.
Overall I like this series. It’s relatively fast-paced, interesting, spicy, and we can see the characters falling for each other.
That said, the things that irritated me about the first book still hold true here (the, ‘pushing you away for your own good’ trope, the switches in tense and 3rd person with the MMC POV, the abrupt ending to the book). Also, I found way more spelling/grammar errors in this one (“vile” instead of “vial,” “breath” instead of “breathe” etc on multiple occasions).
The storyline is relatively predictable but I’m enjoying it all the same. Moving on to the next book immediately!
No regrets. This book did not disappoint! A RH with great characters and well written dialog. Drama kings with issues and a main character that has grown over the series. This author always delivers a great story. The only thing that sucks is my fingers get sore from clenching while awaiting the next book. Oh well, will just have to reread the series until the next one releases. (YES! The story is good enough for rereading!).
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow...didn't see that coming!!! This was another amazing part to this series and I am here for it, can't wait for the next. This had unexpected twists, action, hot steamy times, and of course friction in our harem! I am still loving Kit and her men, we just keep getting deeper into everyone's story and the prophecy. I loved it and am looking forward to the next in the series, this does end on a cliff hanger.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Excellent Book 3 picks up right where 3 left off and it doesn't disappoint. Full if action and adventure. We also got steam, lots of feelings and a bit of humor. We see relationships between Kit and the princes change and grow. I loved the banter between the guys. I continue to love Kit. She is proving to be a kick butt FMC. We also learn some new things and find secrets and things hidden. We are left with a cliffhanger, but it only makes me more excited for book 4!!!
This book has everything you want in a book. Mystery, sex, bad guys (you don't know are bad guys) good guys, new friends and also enemy's. Surprises you don't see coming that are shocking( but good). I can't wait for the next book to find out what happens next. I love Alex's fantasy books, they never let you down, and always keep you interested.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, Alex is one hell of a talented writer in my humble opinion. I love love love her writing style and the stories she’s spun from what I’ve read so far!
There are times I’ve been on the edge of my seat for the next line or chapter, and binged into the wee hours of the morning on the series books. Never a dull moment! I could see her books being made into exciting, suspenseful, and of course, steamy movies. 😁
This is a fantastic, easy to read, engaging paranormal RH with dragon shifters and a strong, independent FMC. The storyline just flows and is completely addictive. The characters are complex and the chemistry just keeps building between all of them and it is delicious. There is so much action and new developments occurring each chapter. I cant' wait for the next book as this one ended with a bang!
The author is great at keeping the reader interested and hooked as well as guessing what’s gonna happen next. My review of book one notes that her spicy drive was really high and that I hoped there was a non-goofy reason for it, and it turns out there is! (Thank goodness) I also appreciate that the members of the harem weren’t all squared away in book one. That gets boring. It’s more real when they all take their own paths/time to bond