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Dragon Circle #2
Digging for Destiny
Kella Mabaki, dragon slayer extraordinaire, devoted sister, and celebrity hero of Jeenobi, has become a nobody by choice. Unable to continue hunting the dragons still tormenting her people and distanced from a brother she no longer understands, Kella is adrift in the city that was once her home. When she’s captivated by a rumor that could mean the end to the dragon sickness plaguing her land, she becomes obsessed with learning the truth of it. Nobody or not, she’s never been one for standing still.
Dragonrider Litz is torn when Kella reappears in her life, devoted to a quest she appears to have invented. Despite her beloved cousin’s disappearance and her growing doubts toward the empire she serves, Litz is experiencing an unexpected period of stability in her life. Kella’s arrival and the brewing war between their nations forces Litz to make a choice. Her country, career, and family, or the chance of making a better world with the woman she hasn’t been able to forget?
Dragonrider Litz is torn when Kella reappears in her life, devoted to a quest she appears to have invented. Despite her beloved cousin’s disappearance and her growing doubts toward the empire she serves, Litz is experiencing an unexpected period of stability in her life. Kella’s arrival and the brewing war between their nations forces Litz to make a choice. Her country, career, and family, or the chance of making a better world with the woman she hasn’t been able to forget?
312 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2024
9 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 26, 2024
A great adventure
Kella comes back into Litz’s life after becoming estranged from everything she’d known. Seeking answers about the dragon sickness sweeping the land, Kella is now determined to find answers but can’t do it alone.
An exciting continuation from Digging For Heaven, which I recommend reading before starting this one as it’ll provide all the understanding of Kella and Litz’s relationship. I loved the slight tension between them, despite Litz’s clearly not over all they’d shared. Again they find themselves on a dangerous adventure where they have to make sacrifices and be selfless if they are going to survive and save the land. A lot of exciting revelations about what was causing the dragon sickness and why came out, and I had not expected any of them.
On a journey that meant Kella and Litz had to work through their emotions but while doing that had to learn to trust one another again, meant they faced more challenges than I think either of them expected. There was just a touch of humor in there too, which at darker and heavier times, lightened the mood and gave hope they’d reaffirm their feelings for one another. I kept the faith they’d succeed, because their will to and supportive fellow adventures left no room for doubt.
Really enjoyed this and hope it’s not the last adventure and story for Kella and Litz.
Kella comes back into Litz’s life after becoming estranged from everything she’d known. Seeking answers about the dragon sickness sweeping the land, Kella is now determined to find answers but can’t do it alone.
An exciting continuation from Digging For Heaven, which I recommend reading before starting this one as it’ll provide all the understanding of Kella and Litz’s relationship. I loved the slight tension between them, despite Litz’s clearly not over all they’d shared. Again they find themselves on a dangerous adventure where they have to make sacrifices and be selfless if they are going to survive and save the land. A lot of exciting revelations about what was causing the dragon sickness and why came out, and I had not expected any of them.
On a journey that meant Kella and Litz had to work through their emotions but while doing that had to learn to trust one another again, meant they faced more challenges than I think either of them expected. There was just a touch of humor in there too, which at darker and heavier times, lightened the mood and gave hope they’d reaffirm their feelings for one another. I kept the faith they’d succeed, because their will to and supportive fellow adventures left no room for doubt.
Really enjoyed this and hope it’s not the last adventure and story for Kella and Litz.
June 25, 2024
After the ending of DFH I could not wait for this book to come out, and it did not disappoint!!
Kella follows through as one of my favourite chaotic characters, determined to find purpose in the aftermath of the first book, Kella is no longer a dragon slayer, by choice, and decides to set off on a quest while also managing to draw everyone around her along, however begrudgingly.
This book is much more fast-paced than the first; we jump straight back into the story and adventure ensues. The world-building is excellently done, and we get to learn more about Aelshia, which is very different from the vast desert we travelled through in book one. Instead, we are in what can only be described as a tropical rainforest version of Lothlorian but with space for dragons to mannouver and SWIM along with grander buildings and a new type of gremlin!
Along with our main characters, Kella, Litz, Loren and Ker, we also get to know a few more characters better such as Ellonya, Nic, Evlo and Queen Xoia, along with some new faces like Captain Sailback.
“She once killed a kraken using only her ship anchor.” - this exchange between Evlo and Kella really tickled me, what can't Sailback do?? However, the relationships are complicated and
After all the drama at the end of the first book, there is war brewing again between Jeenobi and Aelshia, tensions are high and there are a lot of politics and relationships between high-ranking characters we start to see more of. We find out a little bit more about the Dragon Circle and who they are. So many dragons in this book, I love it! There also are sea monsters! And that was a whirlwind to get through!!
The last 20% of the book goes by so quickly I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what happened and of course, the book ends on another cliffhanger!! I can not wait to find out what happens in the next book, there is so much happening and I need to know how it turns out!
Kella follows through as one of my favourite chaotic characters, determined to find purpose in the aftermath of the first book, Kella is no longer a dragon slayer, by choice, and decides to set off on a quest while also managing to draw everyone around her along, however begrudgingly.
This book is much more fast-paced than the first; we jump straight back into the story and adventure ensues. The world-building is excellently done, and we get to learn more about Aelshia, which is very different from the vast desert we travelled through in book one. Instead, we are in what can only be described as a tropical rainforest version of Lothlorian but with space for dragons to mannouver and SWIM along with grander buildings and a new type of gremlin!
Along with our main characters, Kella, Litz, Loren and Ker, we also get to know a few more characters better such as Ellonya, Nic, Evlo and Queen Xoia, along with some new faces like Captain Sailback.
“She once killed a kraken using only her ship anchor.” - this exchange between Evlo and Kella really tickled me, what can't Sailback do?? However, the relationships are complicated and
After all the drama at the end of the first book, there is war brewing again between Jeenobi and Aelshia, tensions are high and there are a lot of politics and relationships between high-ranking characters we start to see more of. We find out a little bit more about the Dragon Circle and who they are. So many dragons in this book, I love it! There also are sea monsters! And that was a whirlwind to get through!!
The last 20% of the book goes by so quickly I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what happened and of course, the book ends on another cliffhanger!! I can not wait to find out what happens in the next book, there is so much happening and I need to know how it turns out!
September 4, 2024
I need the next on like, yesterday.
August 4, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4
IT. KEEPS. GETTING. BETTER
Everything I craved after finishing the first book, Digging for Heaven, was given to me in this installment. Adventure? Character depth? Political intrigue? Yes to all and more! Plus, there are so many new characters that make the story so much fuller. This story is so full in every department it goes for.
Adventure? Oh, we're traveling places all right. After the dessert and Jeenobian adventure last book, it's Aelshia and the seas' time to shine. The missions and fights have never been more intense.
Political intrigue? We have consort rivalry, dragon politics, witch entanglements, secret staircases, and a brewing war. The climax is going to be epic.
Romance? It has lesbian angst, enemies-to-lovers tension, asexual musings, platonic soulmates, and more.
Atmosphere? Total vivid imagery. I personally would love to see the big fish migration as the dragons fill the skies, the library, and the majestic pirate ship sailing over the icy waters full of deadly creatures.
It's even better that the new characters tie so well with the existing ones and to the plot that's starting to go deeper. I am so intrigued at what Xoia and Jev's next moves will be that I need the next book out soon.
Well, that and because my brain will once again forget the details of what I've read in a few days. To be honest, I was confused in the beginning because I have forgotten how the first book ended. Don't judge, I read for the ✨ vibes. ✨ I can still remember asking myself, 'what war are we talking about?' 'wait, magic is banned? why?' 'they're fugitives for what?!' But it all turned out well. The memories started filling in with the help of the many callbacks from the first book. Truly, my brain is grateful.
Final Thoughts
I am amazed at the number of plotlines being intertwined in this story. Almost all of them, from world building to personal relationships, managed to pique my interest and that kept me so immersed in the story. The pacing of playful and serious conversations made the characters shine brighter.
I recommend this to readers who enjoy reading Young Adult (YA) fantasy about dragons, epic battles, and love a good LGBTQIA+ representations where the characters' sexual identities are not the cause of conflict.
IT. KEEPS. GETTING. BETTER
Everything I craved after finishing the first book, Digging for Heaven, was given to me in this installment. Adventure? Character depth? Political intrigue? Yes to all and more! Plus, there are so many new characters that make the story so much fuller. This story is so full in every department it goes for.
Adventure? Oh, we're traveling places all right. After the dessert and Jeenobian adventure last book, it's Aelshia and the seas' time to shine. The missions and fights have never been more intense.
Political intrigue? We have consort rivalry, dragon politics, witch entanglements, secret staircases, and a brewing war. The climax is going to be epic.
Romance? It has lesbian angst, enemies-to-lovers tension, asexual musings, platonic soulmates, and more.
Atmosphere? Total vivid imagery. I personally would love to see the big fish migration as the dragons fill the skies, the library, and the majestic pirate ship sailing over the icy waters full of deadly creatures.
It's even better that the new characters tie so well with the existing ones and to the plot that's starting to go deeper. I am so intrigued at what Xoia and Jev's next moves will be that I need the next book out soon.
Well, that and because my brain will once again forget the details of what I've read in a few days. To be honest, I was confused in the beginning because I have forgotten how the first book ended. Don't judge, I read for the ✨ vibes. ✨ I can still remember asking myself, 'what war are we talking about?' 'wait, magic is banned? why?' 'they're fugitives for what?!' But it all turned out well. The memories started filling in with the help of the many callbacks from the first book. Truly, my brain is grateful.
Final Thoughts
I am amazed at the number of plotlines being intertwined in this story. Almost all of them, from world building to personal relationships, managed to pique my interest and that kept me so immersed in the story. The pacing of playful and serious conversations made the characters shine brighter.
I recommend this to readers who enjoy reading Young Adult (YA) fantasy about dragons, epic battles, and love a good LGBTQIA+ representations where the characters' sexual identities are not the cause of conflict.
July 1, 2024
I committed the cardinal sin of book reviewers. I picked up a new novel without realizing it was a sequel. For some books, this is a minor thing, and you pick up the plot and characters very quickly, but this was not really the case for Digging for Destiny. I struggled to catch up to things. The book felt kind of like an extended portion of a previous novel, than something that can stand on its own. This is not a deal breaker; after I got about halfway through the book, I was pretty much up to speed, but even then, there were moments when a character entered a scene without any sort of introduction, and it threw me off. So, I am not saying not to read the book. I am just saying your experience will be better if you pick the other one up first.
Digging for Destiny continues the story of Dragon Rider Litz and Former Dragon Slayer Kella. After the events in the first book the pair struggle to return to their former homes as things have changed for both of them. Kella, once the celebrity warrior, has become a common dock worker while Litz has moved from the battlefield to the world of court intrigue. They are reunited when Kella finds clues that might lead to the salvation of the dragons in her homeland. These clues lead her back to the capital and back to Litz. The reunion leads to upheaval for both of their lives all the while a variety of groups plot in the shadows to achieve their own goals.
The book has a very strong Empire Strikes Back feel to it. The heroes spend a lot of time on the run and we are not sure that things are going to turn out for the best. The story anchors itself with the romance between Kella and Litz. They reunite, but as time passes, they do not know where they stand, and their affection and desire are undeniable. Their own issues and communication struggles make it difficult for them to get back together. It’s the perfect mix for a fan of fraught romances. The other thing that Jenna Jarvis excels at is her world-building. The magic system and how she handles dragons in the book are fresh and were one of the biggest reasons that I will be running out to get the previous book.
All in all, it was a good read, and it gets a thumbs-up from this girl.
originally posted on paperphoenixink.com
Digging for Destiny continues the story of Dragon Rider Litz and Former Dragon Slayer Kella. After the events in the first book the pair struggle to return to their former homes as things have changed for both of them. Kella, once the celebrity warrior, has become a common dock worker while Litz has moved from the battlefield to the world of court intrigue. They are reunited when Kella finds clues that might lead to the salvation of the dragons in her homeland. These clues lead her back to the capital and back to Litz. The reunion leads to upheaval for both of their lives all the while a variety of groups plot in the shadows to achieve their own goals.
The book has a very strong Empire Strikes Back feel to it. The heroes spend a lot of time on the run and we are not sure that things are going to turn out for the best. The story anchors itself with the romance between Kella and Litz. They reunite, but as time passes, they do not know where they stand, and their affection and desire are undeniable. Their own issues and communication struggles make it difficult for them to get back together. It’s the perfect mix for a fan of fraught romances. The other thing that Jenna Jarvis excels at is her world-building. The magic system and how she handles dragons in the book are fresh and were one of the biggest reasons that I will be running out to get the previous book.
All in all, it was a good read, and it gets a thumbs-up from this girl.
originally posted on paperphoenixink.com
January 8, 2025
Just like the first book, I absolutely LOVED this book and it may have been even more amazing. And like the first, I flew through it. Okay, I do wish I’d written this review sooner, because it’s been like 2+ months since I finished and I’m not sure how well I’m going to get things across in this review because a lot happened in this book. I may edit it in the future. Anyway … (Spoiler-Free Review)
I was already very fond of these characters by the end of the first book, but idk, seeing where they are in book 2 as their entire worldviews and identities are dramatically shifting just made me infinitely more attached to these characters. And oh my God, every character is amazing! I loved every point of view and the character progression was so well done. Honestly, Kella worked her way up to my favorite (in the first book I was back-and-forth between Litz and Ker, but Kella’s growth in Digging for Destiny made me love her so much more). I loved seeing everyone’s priorities and goals change as they adapt to each others’ worldviews and challenge themselves to break away from their pasts. It was so satisfying watching Litz and Kella deal with their internal dilemmas to come together again. Plus, we get a lot of drama, development, and new light shined on several characters who didn’t have as much last book (as in more POVs). Digging for Destiny is even more character-centric than the last book and I loved it!
The worldbuilding and political climate was once again amazing and deeply fleshed out. It felt so real and far bigger than any of the characters. I think each of these characters can truly be a change for good and a better world. Anyway, we get to see a much different society this time: Aelshia, which is just as developed as Jeenobi and very different in its culture, customs, and politics. Aelshia has colonial parallels that are pointed out with how they deal with tribes.
Digging for Destiny has a lot going on for its characters, political turmoil, and world. There’s so much going on but if anything, it felt slow enough in the first half to get so much character development across. Again, I really appreciated how much development the characters and plot got. The series is so complex and multifaceted and well-written. There’s always a lot happening, but it never feels like it’s fast (until the finale, which ramps up a lot pacing-wise).
Anyway, a great group of developing, complex characters who you love, an evolving sapphic romance, a complex, multi-faceted plot, and characters who truly care about changing the world for the better. I loved this sequel so much!!!
Queer Rep: Lesbian, Bi, Ace-Spectrum, Nonbinary, Gay (I'm pretty sure), et cetera (all great and natural)
I was already very fond of these characters by the end of the first book, but idk, seeing where they are in book 2 as their entire worldviews and identities are dramatically shifting just made me infinitely more attached to these characters. And oh my God, every character is amazing! I loved every point of view and the character progression was so well done. Honestly, Kella worked her way up to my favorite (in the first book I was back-and-forth between Litz and Ker, but Kella’s growth in Digging for Destiny made me love her so much more). I loved seeing everyone’s priorities and goals change as they adapt to each others’ worldviews and challenge themselves to break away from their pasts. It was so satisfying watching Litz and Kella deal with their internal dilemmas to come together again. Plus, we get a lot of drama, development, and new light shined on several characters who didn’t have as much last book (as in more POVs). Digging for Destiny is even more character-centric than the last book and I loved it!
The worldbuilding and political climate was once again amazing and deeply fleshed out. It felt so real and far bigger than any of the characters. I think each of these characters can truly be a change for good and a better world. Anyway, we get to see a much different society this time: Aelshia, which is just as developed as Jeenobi and very different in its culture, customs, and politics. Aelshia has colonial parallels that are pointed out with how they deal with tribes.
Digging for Destiny has a lot going on for its characters, political turmoil, and world. There’s so much going on but if anything, it felt slow enough in the first half to get so much character development across. Again, I really appreciated how much development the characters and plot got. The series is so complex and multifaceted and well-written. There’s always a lot happening, but it never feels like it’s fast (until the finale, which ramps up a lot pacing-wise).
Anyway, a great group of developing, complex characters who you love, an evolving sapphic romance, a complex, multi-faceted plot, and characters who truly care about changing the world for the better. I loved this sequel so much!!!
Queer Rep: Lesbian, Bi, Ace-Spectrum, Nonbinary, Gay (I'm pretty sure), et cetera (all great and natural)
September 20, 2025
4.5 stars
I spent quite a bit of time debating whether to round up or down my rating. In the end I rounded up, but I enjoyed the first book a little more than this one. Not that it was a bad book, far from it, it was just slower paced, had enough extra words and weird phrasings to be a bit annoying and some of the decisions the characters made were too abrupt, like they changed their minds too quickly to be realistic, in my opinion. But the worldbuilding was just as awesome with the addition of a few more exciting places and fantastical creatures and the main characters were just as endearing as in book one. In all honesty, I was a little annoyed with Litz at a certain point, but then I realised she was going through pretty much the same thing Kella had been in Digging for Heaven so I cut her some slack. But Kella remained my favourite character of the series, followed by Ellonya. It was very interesting learning more about the Aelshians and their culture and seeing the differences between them and the Jeenobians.
The ending was a cliffhanger, but after reading several in the last few months I think I am becoming inured to them. Still, even if I wasn't especially shocked by it, I am looking forward to the third book.
I spent quite a bit of time debating whether to round up or down my rating. In the end I rounded up, but I enjoyed the first book a little more than this one. Not that it was a bad book, far from it, it was just slower paced, had enough extra words and weird phrasings to be a bit annoying and some of the decisions the characters made were too abrupt, like they changed their minds too quickly to be realistic, in my opinion. But the worldbuilding was just as awesome with the addition of a few more exciting places and fantastical creatures and the main characters were just as endearing as in book one. In all honesty, I was a little annoyed with Litz at a certain point, but then I realised she was going through pretty much the same thing Kella had been in Digging for Heaven so I cut her some slack. But Kella remained my favourite character of the series, followed by Ellonya. It was very interesting learning more about the Aelshians and their culture and seeing the differences between them and the Jeenobians.
The ending was a cliffhanger, but after reading several in the last few months I think I am becoming inured to them. Still, even if I wasn't especially shocked by it, I am looking forward to the third book.
April 5, 2025
What a thrilling continuation of The Dragon Circle Series! Jenna’s worldbuilding in this story is incredible. And there is SOO MUCH going on in this story. We get to learn a bit more about several characters from Digging for Heaven, including getting some of their POV in this book as well as new characters. This story is filled with action and adventure - even more than book one! And in addition to the dragons and magic, book two gives us pirates and a seafaring adventure, too! Plus I just love all the various LGBTQ+ rep in the story. So many moving pieces and twists in the story. But I also am just here for Kella and Litz. Love those two so much! And talk about found family. Only this family also includes dragons and gremlins. And the way this book ended… I can’t wait to find out what happens next! I just know already it’s gonna be even more intense than the first two books! Also…I still want to bond with a dragon. 🐉
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books and this is my honest review. Also - I read this book like 9 months ago and I feel so bad I'm just now getting my review done, but I really loved this story!
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian, Bi, Asexual, Nonbinary, Deaf (minor SC), & other LGBTQ+ SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Adventure/Survival, Against All Odds, Slow Burn, Dragons, Magic, Found Family, Forced Proximity, Pirates, Only One Bed
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books and this is my honest review. Also - I read this book like 9 months ago and I feel so bad I'm just now getting my review done, but I really loved this story!
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian, Bi, Asexual, Nonbinary, Deaf (minor SC), & other LGBTQ+ SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Adventure/Survival, Against All Odds, Slow Burn, Dragons, Magic, Found Family, Forced Proximity, Pirates, Only One Bed
June 29, 2024
The events of the first book have significantly changed the characters - Kella, Litz, and Ker, and really, there isn't any going back, even if they've gone separate ways. For Ker, it's his dragon. For Kella and Litz, it's each other.
There is a lot going on in this book, and I really mean it. A lot. We get more than just the three pov's, and a bit more frequently as well, seeing things from other characters to deepen the plot and explain what's going on - the good and the bad. For all that was set up in the first book, things are certainly going sideways now, and with some of the reveals, and new knowledge presented, it could well get a lot worse. It's more than just their happiness and the kingdoms at stake - it is very much epic fantasy with dragons at the core.
I enjoyed the story, seeing the changes that they've gone through, the decisions that they make, and how this whole drama is unfolding. I will admit that I am stressed for the characters - things could go very badly for them, but I am holding out hope. The world building is great and well thought out, especially with the additions for this book, and there really is no knowing how the final(?) book will play out. Looking forward to reading it when comes out, and irrespective, this was a solid entry to the series
There is a lot going on in this book, and I really mean it. A lot. We get more than just the three pov's, and a bit more frequently as well, seeing things from other characters to deepen the plot and explain what's going on - the good and the bad. For all that was set up in the first book, things are certainly going sideways now, and with some of the reveals, and new knowledge presented, it could well get a lot worse. It's more than just their happiness and the kingdoms at stake - it is very much epic fantasy with dragons at the core.
I enjoyed the story, seeing the changes that they've gone through, the decisions that they make, and how this whole drama is unfolding. I will admit that I am stressed for the characters - things could go very badly for them, but I am holding out hope. The world building is great and well thought out, especially with the additions for this book, and there really is no knowing how the final(?) book will play out. Looking forward to reading it when comes out, and irrespective, this was a solid entry to the series
May 27, 2024
All sorts of dragons and adventure
This is the second book in the Dragon Circle and Jenna Jarvis dazzled me again with her superb world building - when book one ended we knew that the dragons of Jeenobia are very different from those in Aelshia. Now surprise - we find out even more about them. And its getting even more intriguing.
Kella, the ex-dragon slayer, and Litz, dragon rider, collide again and continue their slow dance around each other. Mainly they are on a quest with lots of twists and turns and new developments. Definitely no rest neither for the wicked nor our heroes.
If you like high fantasy and dragons and strong female main characters this is a good read for you. BUT in my opinion you need to start with book one - even having read book one I found it difficult to re-enter this fantasy world since no effort is made to ease the reader into it. And I asked the author - this is series will encompass probably four books. So a heads-up: be prepared that this is not the last book in this series.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
This is the second book in the Dragon Circle and Jenna Jarvis dazzled me again with her superb world building - when book one ended we knew that the dragons of Jeenobia are very different from those in Aelshia. Now surprise - we find out even more about them. And its getting even more intriguing.
Kella, the ex-dragon slayer, and Litz, dragon rider, collide again and continue their slow dance around each other. Mainly they are on a quest with lots of twists and turns and new developments. Definitely no rest neither for the wicked nor our heroes.
If you like high fantasy and dragons and strong female main characters this is a good read for you. BUT in my opinion you need to start with book one - even having read book one I found it difficult to re-enter this fantasy world since no effort is made to ease the reader into it. And I asked the author - this is series will encompass probably four books. So a heads-up: be prepared that this is not the last book in this series.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.
July 1, 2024
I was so excited to read this and it did not disappoint! This book deepens our understanding of the characters and their struggles, building on Digging for Heaven. It was engaging watching the characters grow and overcome some of the challenges they faced.
The pacing was fast and the intertwining story lines created a rich, immersive experience! The way these stories comes together feels surprising at times and at others there is a satisfying inevitability.
I couldn’t put the book down towards the end and now I cannot wait for the third!
The pacing was fast and the intertwining story lines created a rich, immersive experience! The way these stories comes together feels surprising at times and at others there is a satisfying inevitability.
I couldn’t put the book down towards the end and now I cannot wait for the third!
June 24, 2024
I recommend you read the first one in this series before you read book two. I didn’t and I regretted it as it took me quite a while to work out who was who, and what exactly was going on. I’m still a little hazy on where everyone is and how they relate to each other, but it’s a terrific tale so I was happy to keep reading. Plenty of dragons and a good fantasy world that’s complex enough to keep your interest. Nice hang at the end too, which has left me awaiting book three with interest.
July 31, 2024
Thank you netgalley for providing me with a copy of this arc.
I love Litz and kella so much. Ofcourse Loren is a top tier character. I am enjoying this series but im not loving it, i am going to read the third one when it comes out as i enjoy it enough to see what happens.
I love Litz and kella so much. Ofcourse Loren is a top tier character. I am enjoying this series but im not loving it, i am going to read the third one when it comes out as i enjoy it enough to see what happens.
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January 24, 2025Ker from Dragon Circle is asexual!
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
September 27, 2025
Just wow! That ending?! I need the next book TODAY.
Characters: 4/5
Since this is a sequel, the same characters in book one reappear. I love all of the main cast. Kella and Litz are made for each other, and that boat scene….HOT. Ker was my favorite in book 1, and I think he is still my favorite in this one. Sallvayn played less of a role in this book which made me a little sad, but the overall dynamic between Ker and the others was great. I love the potential demiromantic representation in this book, and we get to see more nonbinary characters YAY!
My only gripe is character descriptions. I want to know what they look like, not just “Litz is taller than everyone and Evlo is short with a long neck.” Especially since there isn’t any kind of world map to help picture the world this book takes place in, it’s hard to envision them in my head since no descriptions are given about any of these characters.
Plot: 5/5
So much is happening at once, and I love it. I love how the book is diving deep into personal feelings and relationships, while also bringing in complex politics and high stakes. I enjoyed the plot more in this book because it seemed like more happened. The plot is starting to get a little complex, and on multiple occasions, I had to search back through book 1 to be reminded who a particular character was (but that was probably my bad since my memory isn’t so good).
Worldbuilding: 4/5
Similar rating here as with the characters. The settings change frequently in this book, and I just feel like the descriptions can be a bit more lengthy to bring the world to life a little more. However, the worldbuilding was still pretty great. Each place in this world feels very distinct, and I love the added touch about the language barrier in some of the places.
Pacing: 3.5/5
The first half of the book was a little tough for me, not going to lie. Given how fast paced book 1 felt, I was expecting a similar pace in this book. It took me a little while to get back into the series, but once it started picking back up, it picked back up QUICK. The second half of the book flew by for me, and I was shocked when I reached the end. I kept flipping the pages hoping there was more to read but alas…
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, and I want to thank NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Characters: 4/5
Since this is a sequel, the same characters in book one reappear. I love all of the main cast. Kella and Litz are made for each other, and that boat scene….HOT. Ker was my favorite in book 1, and I think he is still my favorite in this one. Sallvayn played less of a role in this book which made me a little sad, but the overall dynamic between Ker and the others was great. I love the potential demiromantic representation in this book, and we get to see more nonbinary characters YAY!
My only gripe is character descriptions. I want to know what they look like, not just “Litz is taller than everyone and Evlo is short with a long neck.” Especially since there isn’t any kind of world map to help picture the world this book takes place in, it’s hard to envision them in my head since no descriptions are given about any of these characters.
Plot: 5/5
So much is happening at once, and I love it. I love how the book is diving deep into personal feelings and relationships, while also bringing in complex politics and high stakes. I enjoyed the plot more in this book because it seemed like more happened. The plot is starting to get a little complex, and on multiple occasions, I had to search back through book 1 to be reminded who a particular character was (but that was probably my bad since my memory isn’t so good).
Worldbuilding: 4/5
Similar rating here as with the characters. The settings change frequently in this book, and I just feel like the descriptions can be a bit more lengthy to bring the world to life a little more. However, the worldbuilding was still pretty great. Each place in this world feels very distinct, and I love the added touch about the language barrier in some of the places.
Pacing: 3.5/5
The first half of the book was a little tough for me, not going to lie. Given how fast paced book 1 felt, I was expecting a similar pace in this book. It took me a little while to get back into the series, but once it started picking back up, it picked back up QUICK. The second half of the book flew by for me, and I was shocked when I reached the end. I kept flipping the pages hoping there was more to read but alas…
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, and I want to thank NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me an arc in exchange for my honest review.
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