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Empire of Ash and Song #1.5
Casandra’s Dragon
If no one else will challenge the Firebloods, Casandra will do it herself.
Princess Casandra, daughter of the Dragon Judge, knows there is nothing she cannot do. No cliff she cannot climb, no fight she cannot win, no man who can best her in a battle of wits.
So when her best friend is banished for failing the Dragon Judge's test, there is no question in her mind.
She has to set this right. She has to get her best friend back. She has to rid the world of a slumbering evil her father is too cowardly to face.
Armed with her father's twin swords, her dragon, and her clever mind, Casandra sets off on an unsanctioned mission that will lead to freedom for her family...or to her death.
Princess Casandra, daughter of the Dragon Judge, knows there is nothing she cannot do. No cliff she cannot climb, no fight she cannot win, no man who can best her in a battle of wits.
So when her best friend is banished for failing the Dragon Judge's test, there is no question in her mind.
She has to set this right. She has to get her best friend back. She has to rid the world of a slumbering evil her father is too cowardly to face.
Armed with her father's twin swords, her dragon, and her clever mind, Casandra sets off on an unsanctioned mission that will lead to freedom for her family...or to her death.
163 pages, ebook
Published August 29, 2023
9 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 29, 2023
This was absolutely amazing! I enjoyed her world building and how our main character Cassandra evolved throughout the story. She didn’t just throw in some stereotype she took her time to develop the character, and I appreciate that! I can’t wait for the first full length book!
September 13, 2023
This was such an amazing Fantasy novella and a wonderful way to get to readers engaged before the first novel comes out! I can’t wait to read her first debut novel, To Bind Fire! Casandra’s Dragon, is a beautifully written, action packed, adventurous novella. The world building and character development was smooth and well executed. Unlike some novellas I’ve read, this story wasn’t rushed and didn’t lack detail. I loved Casandra’s Dragon and cannot wait to read To Bind Fire, and any other work D.E. Carlson puts out! Because this is a no spice/clean fantasy it can be enjoyed by readers of all ages!
***Note, I am a spicy book reader. However, this novella was so well written it didn’t leave me feeling like I was missing anything! Such a great read!! 5/5 stars!!
***Note, I am a spicy book reader. However, this novella was so well written it didn’t leave me feeling like I was missing anything! Such a great read!! 5/5 stars!!
October 16, 2023
This novella was the first work I'd ever read by D.E. Carlson, and I had no idea what to expect! I was so pleasantly surprised!
“Casandra turned her face to the wind and let it sing to her."
From page one, the description blew me away. Carlson is so talented, and her writing style shone. I could picture each location, the caves, the cliffs, the sea, the valley and the Fire City.
Each character was vivid. Casandra stole my heart. I loved her courage and spunk. Trav was SO precious. I don't read a lot of fantasy, especially with dragons, but Aurora was loveable, and I found the bond between the dragons and the Dragonbloods fascinating. The Captain and Bee were frustrating - which was intentional, and yet I enjoyed their presence on the page.
The faith aspect in the story was really well done!
When I reached the end, I couldn't wait to read more and find out what happened next in Casandra's adventure. Carlson is a wonderful storyteller, and this novella is a perfect introduction to her Empire of Ash and Song series.
“Casandra turned her face to the wind and let it sing to her."
From page one, the description blew me away. Carlson is so talented, and her writing style shone. I could picture each location, the caves, the cliffs, the sea, the valley and the Fire City.
Each character was vivid. Casandra stole my heart. I loved her courage and spunk. Trav was SO precious. I don't read a lot of fantasy, especially with dragons, but Aurora was loveable, and I found the bond between the dragons and the Dragonbloods fascinating. The Captain and Bee were frustrating - which was intentional, and yet I enjoyed their presence on the page.
The faith aspect in the story was really well done!
When I reached the end, I couldn't wait to read more and find out what happened next in Casandra's adventure. Carlson is a wonderful storyteller, and this novella is a perfect introduction to her Empire of Ash and Song series.
August 29, 2023
What a great way to stir up interest for book one coming out soon! It definitely left me wanting more and eager to get my hands on “To Bind Fire.” The story is easy to follow with characters that pull the reader into the story. The end is really just the beginning. Looking forward to diving head first and immersing myself into this fantasy world soon!
June 27, 2025
Princess Casandra - daughter of the Dragon Judge.
✨ “You can do this, Casandra. You were named for strength and life, and strength and life are in you.” ✨
She sets out on a mission to save her best friend Trav after he was banished. I loved getting to read this one after reading To Bind Fire. It made so much sense why she was so passionate & driven about her mission in book 1.
I thought this book was fantastic & so well done leading up to her mission in the Fire City! I am so excited to continue on with this series.
Content -
No foul language
Clean fantasy read
✨ “You can do this, Casandra. You were named for strength and life, and strength and life are in you.” ✨
She sets out on a mission to save her best friend Trav after he was banished. I loved getting to read this one after reading To Bind Fire. It made so much sense why she was so passionate & driven about her mission in book 1.
I thought this book was fantastic & so well done leading up to her mission in the Fire City! I am so excited to continue on with this series.
Content -
No foul language
Clean fantasy read
September 12, 2023
This was a great way to get ready for To Bind Fire! I’m here for this story and can not wait to see what happens. 🔥
July 27, 2024
4.5 stars. Longer review to follow
April 1, 2025
Wow, just, wow — I didn’t know what to expect going into this, but I absolutely loved this little novella. So much happened I’m the span of so few pages — I loved the world building, the character development based on Cass’s poor life choices, and the blatant Christian elements that are far too often missing from modern fantasy. I do wish there was a little more relationship building, especially between Cass and Aurora and maybe Bee and Cass (it felt like 0 to 180), but given the length of the novella that really wasn’t a problem, I just personally love seeing how relationships bloom and grow (maybe I’m just a sucker for slowburns, I don’t know lol). I’m very intrigued to see where Cass’s story will continue since this seems very much like the beginning of a novel instead of it’s own installment — which I actually really like honestly. This has a very nice readability as well as bingeability, and I found myself itching to read more throughout the day when I didn’t have time to read it. I would give this 4.5 stars :)
Edit: reread 2025: I LOVE THIS SO MUCH MORE NOW THAT I KNOW THINGS 5 STARS
Edit: reread 2025: I LOVE THIS SO MUCH MORE NOW THAT I KNOW THINGS 5 STARS
September 15, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish, but I have to say the worldbuilding was incredible! The way it opened up throughout the story to expand into a larger world certainly fills the reader with intrigue. I was pulled right into its mysteries alongside the story’s vivid characters!
April 22, 2024
This novella was so much fun! Adventure, dragons, lore... It's really easy to get sucked into the world of the book and learn about it alongside Cassandra!
Want to read
July 16, 2025To Bind The Stars 4.5 stars!
A powerless fireblood. A foreseeing dragonblood. A pained weaveblood. A brave seablood. Dying Dragons. Fighting armies. Insane Plot Twisting. Heart-wrenching deaths. Death-defying antics. Tearful conversions. Tested faith. And an impossible war. Iris is lost. She has nothing more than a dying faith, a broken heart, and a dead song. Being used by others, she seeks the only light left. El. Forced to trust a dangerous pirate, an indecisive spy, and the person who tried to murder her last, Iris will stop at nothing to reach the only light left in this dark world, El. Join Iris, Jacin, Besaun, Cassandra, Dox, Allsander, Captain Veldan, Bettania, and many more lovable and loathable characters in this final battle between good and evil. Right and wrong. Light and dark. Life and death. One person may just be the balance between life and death.
Things Parents would like to know…
1. Romance (between main character and boyfriend, kissing maybe 2 times, maybe 6 hugs, very clean romance. Between side character and side characters girlfriend, maybe 3 kisses, maybe 4-5 hugs, very clean romance)
2. A mention of adultery (not detailed)
3. Possessions (twitching, eyes turning red, being possessed by a demon, the main villain. May be scary for 11 and under)
4. Demon monsters
5. Gore (Blood, dying, stabbing, killing, pain, throwing up, passing out, knocked out, detailed. Scary for kids under 13)
6. Beating/Torturing people (burning people, peeling their skin off, hanging them on a rack, starving them, choking them, throwing them, slapping them, scratching them, making them scream)
These things are ideal for parents to know and I would suggest this book for early high schoolers and up.
OMGOODNESS this book was still amazing tho! I’m going to be a hundred percent honest, ok. This was a gorgeous book and my heart is still throbbing from the final battle.
I loved the characters so much. I like that we got rid of Tabin and got Jacin as a second main character and a replacement. Jacin is such a godly and just wise character. I won’t spoil anything but I literally love him!
I love the faith themes in this. They were very moving and I related with many descriptions of feeling El’s love. I whooped every time El came onto the scene. He just made me so happy with his gentle reprimanding and nudges in the right direction. I feel like God is very pleased with these descriptions of El/Himself in this book. And Iris still having doubts but at the same time having faith jusy made me so happy. Because when we accept God, everything isn’t perfect but it is easier to bear because we have God guiding us and that is what I saw in this beautiful book.
Ok, the rest of this review is spoilers so I can vent and just relate with the people who already read this beautiful book. Do not read these spoilers unless you want your this book to be completely spoiled.
***********SPOILER!!!!!!**********
Jacin and Iris just pulled my heartstrings! They are so cute and sweet together. Jacin is SOOOOO much better than Tabin. Tabin just made me uncomfortable and eventually mad. Jacin makes me smile and laugh. He is so godly and I like that he asked El before he actually tried to make Iris his girlfriend. I also love that in the first book, Jacin I’m attacking Iris and Tabin has to save her but in this final book, Tabin has kidnapped Iris and Jacin has to save her! And when I thought he was dead! It had been like 4 months and then he showed up! I wished they could’ve heard more about Jacin and Iris in the end but I’m pretty satisfied!
ANOTHER SPOILER!!!!!
Captain Winters…..or should i say, Tabin Dal-Son! I knew he was Captain winters when Iris was on his horse and he let her drink the watered down buttchae. I don’t know why, but at that moment I was like “ITS TABIN!!!! OOH YOU DIRTY CHEATING LYING KIDNAPPER YOU!” And from then on, it all made sense. It was such a wonderful plot twist.
ANOTHER SPOILY!!!!!
Why did Gedaue have to die!? He was amazing! I loved him so much. He started wittling and he made me laugh as he got older. And he had learned about his fire like a week ago and now he’s dead. Why? I dont know. It’s sad he won’t have grandchildren and never see Besaun’s wedding.
SPOILER!!!
🎵Allsander and Dox sitting in a tree 🎶! What a plot twist. And honestly, it was perfect. She knew to much anyway. And then surviving and him recovering super slowly made me so happy. He’s so funny!
Dox: “And he walked three steps yesterday!”
Allsander: “Oh, isnt life grand.” I love his sarcasm. And I knew he was a good guy from the beginning! Again, I really just wanted him to be a good guy so I held to the belief he was and it turned out he was! 🤣
********NO MORE SPOLIERS!!!!********
Thank you for reading this review and I hope you enjoyed or enjoy this wonderful book: To Bind The Stars! 🔥⭐️👑
A powerless fireblood. A foreseeing dragonblood. A pained weaveblood. A brave seablood. Dying Dragons. Fighting armies. Insane Plot Twisting. Heart-wrenching deaths. Death-defying antics. Tearful conversions. Tested faith. And an impossible war. Iris is lost. She has nothing more than a dying faith, a broken heart, and a dead song. Being used by others, she seeks the only light left. El. Forced to trust a dangerous pirate, an indecisive spy, and the person who tried to murder her last, Iris will stop at nothing to reach the only light left in this dark world, El. Join Iris, Jacin, Besaun, Cassandra, Dox, Allsander, Captain Veldan, Bettania, and many more lovable and loathable characters in this final battle between good and evil. Right and wrong. Light and dark. Life and death. One person may just be the balance between life and death.
Things Parents would like to know…
1. Romance (between main character and boyfriend, kissing maybe 2 times, maybe 6 hugs, very clean romance. Between side character and side characters girlfriend, maybe 3 kisses, maybe 4-5 hugs, very clean romance)
2. A mention of adultery (not detailed)
3. Possessions (twitching, eyes turning red, being possessed by a demon, the main villain. May be scary for 11 and under)
4. Demon monsters
5. Gore (Blood, dying, stabbing, killing, pain, throwing up, passing out, knocked out, detailed. Scary for kids under 13)
6. Beating/Torturing people (burning people, peeling their skin off, hanging them on a rack, starving them, choking them, throwing them, slapping them, scratching them, making them scream)
These things are ideal for parents to know and I would suggest this book for early high schoolers and up.
OMGOODNESS this book was still amazing tho! I’m going to be a hundred percent honest, ok. This was a gorgeous book and my heart is still throbbing from the final battle.
I loved the characters so much. I like that we got rid of Tabin and got Jacin as a second main character and a replacement. Jacin is such a godly and just wise character. I won’t spoil anything but I literally love him!
I love the faith themes in this. They were very moving and I related with many descriptions of feeling El’s love. I whooped every time El came onto the scene. He just made me so happy with his gentle reprimanding and nudges in the right direction. I feel like God is very pleased with these descriptions of El/Himself in this book. And Iris still having doubts but at the same time having faith jusy made me so happy. Because when we accept God, everything isn’t perfect but it is easier to bear because we have God guiding us and that is what I saw in this beautiful book.
Ok, the rest of this review is spoilers so I can vent and just relate with the people who already read this beautiful book. Do not read these spoilers unless you want your this book to be completely spoiled.
***********SPOILER!!!!!!**********
Jacin and Iris just pulled my heartstrings! They are so cute and sweet together. Jacin is SOOOOO much better than Tabin. Tabin just made me uncomfortable and eventually mad. Jacin makes me smile and laugh. He is so godly and I like that he asked El before he actually tried to make Iris his girlfriend. I also love that in the first book, Jacin I’m attacking Iris and Tabin has to save her but in this final book, Tabin has kidnapped Iris and Jacin has to save her! And when I thought he was dead! It had been like 4 months and then he showed up! I wished they could’ve heard more about Jacin and Iris in the end but I’m pretty satisfied!
ANOTHER SPOILER!!!!!
Captain Winters…..or should i say, Tabin Dal-Son! I knew he was Captain winters when Iris was on his horse and he let her drink the watered down buttchae. I don’t know why, but at that moment I was like “ITS TABIN!!!! OOH YOU DIRTY CHEATING LYING KIDNAPPER YOU!” And from then on, it all made sense. It was such a wonderful plot twist.
ANOTHER SPOILY!!!!!
Why did Gedaue have to die!? He was amazing! I loved him so much. He started wittling and he made me laugh as he got older. And he had learned about his fire like a week ago and now he’s dead. Why? I dont know. It’s sad he won’t have grandchildren and never see Besaun’s wedding.
SPOILER!!!
🎵Allsander and Dox sitting in a tree 🎶! What a plot twist. And honestly, it was perfect. She knew to much anyway. And then surviving and him recovering super slowly made me so happy. He’s so funny!
Dox: “And he walked three steps yesterday!”
Allsander: “Oh, isnt life grand.” I love his sarcasm. And I knew he was a good guy from the beginning! Again, I really just wanted him to be a good guy so I held to the belief he was and it turned out he was! 🤣
********NO MORE SPOLIERS!!!!********
Thank you for reading this review and I hope you enjoyed or enjoy this wonderful book: To Bind The Stars! 🔥⭐️👑
September 6, 2023
This was a great read!
The world building was easy to follow, descriptive without being overwhelming or confusing. I love how the reader jumps right into the action, with plenty of excitement from the very first page, whilst still having elements of the world being constructed within the adventure, rather than lengthy sections of description and no interactions or intrigue.
The banter and camaraderie between characters endear them to the reader, though also at times provide very real eye-rolling moments! These moments show how the author has captured a realness to her characters which is delightful and refreshing; they're not unrealistically perfect, instead have very human flaws and weaknesses.
Cassandra's character development through the novella has me intrigued to see how she will continue to grow and respond to other characters and the challenges hinted to be coming her way in To Bind Fire. From starting as a very naive, sheltered princess, and a little over confident in the speed of her mission, she grows to realise she doesn't have the answers to every scenario, but she does have the courage, spunk and persistence to keep trying and learn from her mistakes.
I look forward to exploring the dragon bonds more in To Bind Fire, but what was explained in Cassandra's Dragon has my interest captured and was a great introduction point.
The Christian parallels throughout the story are beautifully added without feeling forced or awkward. El's love and goodness show through strongly in complete contrast to the evil ruling the world, along with El's guidance gently but firmly nudging Cassandra along her journey.
Cassandra's Dragon is a fast-paced, easy to ready introduction to what promises to be a thrilling adventure, filled with good old fashioned bad guys vs good guys, action, intrigue, humour and of course DRAGONS (as if we could forget them!) and faith driven hope. A beautiful blend of exciting adventure and Christian values and beliefs brought together perfectly by D. E. Carlson. A brilliant debut! I'm looking forward continuing Cassandra's and her companions' journeys in to To Bind Fire.
The world building was easy to follow, descriptive without being overwhelming or confusing. I love how the reader jumps right into the action, with plenty of excitement from the very first page, whilst still having elements of the world being constructed within the adventure, rather than lengthy sections of description and no interactions or intrigue.
The banter and camaraderie between characters endear them to the reader, though also at times provide very real eye-rolling moments! These moments show how the author has captured a realness to her characters which is delightful and refreshing; they're not unrealistically perfect, instead have very human flaws and weaknesses.
Cassandra's character development through the novella has me intrigued to see how she will continue to grow and respond to other characters and the challenges hinted to be coming her way in To Bind Fire. From starting as a very naive, sheltered princess, and a little over confident in the speed of her mission, she grows to realise she doesn't have the answers to every scenario, but she does have the courage, spunk and persistence to keep trying and learn from her mistakes.
I look forward to exploring the dragon bonds more in To Bind Fire, but what was explained in Cassandra's Dragon has my interest captured and was a great introduction point.
The Christian parallels throughout the story are beautifully added without feeling forced or awkward. El's love and goodness show through strongly in complete contrast to the evil ruling the world, along with El's guidance gently but firmly nudging Cassandra along her journey.
Cassandra's Dragon is a fast-paced, easy to ready introduction to what promises to be a thrilling adventure, filled with good old fashioned bad guys vs good guys, action, intrigue, humour and of course DRAGONS (as if we could forget them!) and faith driven hope. A beautiful blend of exciting adventure and Christian values and beliefs brought together perfectly by D. E. Carlson. A brilliant debut! I'm looking forward continuing Cassandra's and her companions' journeys in to To Bind Fire.
May 11, 2024
4,5 stars rounded to 5
I’ve listened to the audiobook narrated by Amanda Newman and I think it’s best to enjoy this novella before To Bind Fire, but it can definitely be read / listened to at any point in the series.
I loved Casandra with all her sass, loyalty and courage and that Carlson even managed to put character growth into the rather short story when Casandra realizes, that her plans - if one could even call her ideas that - are quite naive and that there isn’t just more to the world than she thought, but that she might need help and is not as powerful and completely independent as she thought. I expect and hope her character to grow and mature even more in the following series, but the novella made a great start, not only on her redemption arc but also on the world building and adventure we will see in the following books.
The novella ends on a note that made me eager to jump into To Bind Fire and I don’t recommend Casandra’s Dragon if you’re not planning on reading the Empire of Ash and Song series because you will definitely want to after finishing the novella.
The novella (purposefully) leaves plot threads unfinished and questions unanswered, some even after the second book To Bind Court and I am still curious about a lot of things surrounding Casandra and can’t wait for the series to continue.
I loved the bond between Casandra and her dragon and also how the author brought Christian faith elements into the story, but I think the second point gets clearer in the novels.
I absolutely recommend this novella, especially as a pre-series starter, if you love fantasy worlds, dragonriders, faith elements, strong female main characters and adventures.
* Thank you to the author for giving me access to this audibook. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
I’ve listened to the audiobook narrated by Amanda Newman and I think it’s best to enjoy this novella before To Bind Fire, but it can definitely be read / listened to at any point in the series.
I loved Casandra with all her sass, loyalty and courage and that Carlson even managed to put character growth into the rather short story when Casandra realizes, that her plans - if one could even call her ideas that - are quite naive and that there isn’t just more to the world than she thought, but that she might need help and is not as powerful and completely independent as she thought. I expect and hope her character to grow and mature even more in the following series, but the novella made a great start, not only on her redemption arc but also on the world building and adventure we will see in the following books.
The novella ends on a note that made me eager to jump into To Bind Fire and I don’t recommend Casandra’s Dragon if you’re not planning on reading the Empire of Ash and Song series because you will definitely want to after finishing the novella.
The novella (purposefully) leaves plot threads unfinished and questions unanswered, some even after the second book To Bind Court and I am still curious about a lot of things surrounding Casandra and can’t wait for the series to continue.
I loved the bond between Casandra and her dragon and also how the author brought Christian faith elements into the story, but I think the second point gets clearer in the novels.
I absolutely recommend this novella, especially as a pre-series starter, if you love fantasy worlds, dragonriders, faith elements, strong female main characters and adventures.
* Thank you to the author for giving me access to this audibook. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
September 22, 2023
So right off the bat, re-looking at the summary after I finished reading the story, it really has changed the last time I read it and I'm not going to lie, I like it lots. ^w^
For starters, I love the story's protagonist, Casandra, she is pretty flawed in her ways and bits of her mindset that you get to see quite the character development as the story progresses and I'm all in for flawed characters who learn something in their journey, and Casandra is definitely no different and I'm all for it.
As for the other characters, I do love em, though there are a few characters I would want to see more of them a bit, yet good nonetheless. I even enjoyed Bee, despite being a character who appears later, I find myself faving him as a fun character to be around (yet I kinda joked on the Kindle notes on the topic of this guy that are absolutely chaotic and wrote them around 2-3 AM while finishing the story to make this funnier asdffkakldagnd-).
As for story, its really good, especially coming from the goals of our MC who we watch throughout the story. It's a bit of an easy-quick-read type level to me, but something easy to digest, especially as it serves the purpose of a novella. So to me, it's something that I can keep up with considering as I was busy on my own stuff during those days, but happy that I get to have such a treat as this book.
Considering it is a novella, it is short and it's a neat introduction to the Ash and Song series just for a neat starter until "To Bind Fire" comes out. It really has Christian elements to it hidden that a believer would notice. Which to say, it's a really good story and I recommend it if any are looking for a neat new read to get into! (You won't regret- plus, it is a free book *wink* ;3 )
For starters, I love the story's protagonist, Casandra, she is pretty flawed in her ways and bits of her mindset that you get to see quite the character development as the story progresses and I'm all in for flawed characters who learn something in their journey, and Casandra is definitely no different and I'm all for it.
As for the other characters, I do love em, though there are a few characters I would want to see more of them a bit, yet good nonetheless. I even enjoyed Bee, despite being a character who appears later, I find myself faving him as a fun character to be around (yet I kinda joked on the Kindle notes on the topic of this guy that are absolutely chaotic and wrote them around 2-3 AM while finishing the story to make this funnier asdffkakldagnd-).
As for story, its really good, especially coming from the goals of our MC who we watch throughout the story. It's a bit of an easy-quick-read type level to me, but something easy to digest, especially as it serves the purpose of a novella. So to me, it's something that I can keep up with considering as I was busy on my own stuff during those days, but happy that I get to have such a treat as this book.
Considering it is a novella, it is short and it's a neat introduction to the Ash and Song series just for a neat starter until "To Bind Fire" comes out. It really has Christian elements to it hidden that a believer would notice. Which to say, it's a really good story and I recommend it if any are looking for a neat new read to get into! (You won't regret- plus, it is a free book *wink* ;3 )
September 3, 2023
For a while, I had been searching for the right book. It took me a while, until D. E. Carlson's Instagram page showed up on my Instagram FYP.
As I'm reading the plot of Casandra's Dragon, I was immediately drawn to it. I had goosebumps and everything. Which doesn't happen very often, especially with books.
However, I saw that it had dragons in this one. I've not particularly been drawn to dragons at all in my entire life, yet, the way she wrote about it, I thought, I really need to know what happens.
I read it in two days... and I was floored. I cried, I laughed out loud - literally, I stopped breathing, and I sighed. My heart beat out of my chest and my heartstrings were tugged on.
I loved Casandra. I saw so much of myself in her as I looked back on who I was. She has spunk, courage, drive, and a love and bond for her friend that goes beyond any fear or discouragement she may have.
Reading it encouraged me to not give up. To keep fighting for those we love. To keep pressing forward even when times get tough. Plus, it encouraged me in the Lord. You'll see when you read it.
It's a story filled with adventure and hope... and she's just the side character in the main series in that world. How amazing!
Also, side note: Bee will forever and always hold my heart! Just saying.
As I'm reading the plot of Casandra's Dragon, I was immediately drawn to it. I had goosebumps and everything. Which doesn't happen very often, especially with books.
However, I saw that it had dragons in this one. I've not particularly been drawn to dragons at all in my entire life, yet, the way she wrote about it, I thought, I really need to know what happens.
I read it in two days... and I was floored. I cried, I laughed out loud - literally, I stopped breathing, and I sighed. My heart beat out of my chest and my heartstrings were tugged on.
I loved Casandra. I saw so much of myself in her as I looked back on who I was. She has spunk, courage, drive, and a love and bond for her friend that goes beyond any fear or discouragement she may have.
Reading it encouraged me to not give up. To keep fighting for those we love. To keep pressing forward even when times get tough. Plus, it encouraged me in the Lord. You'll see when you read it.
It's a story filled with adventure and hope... and she's just the side character in the main series in that world. How amazing!
Also, side note: Bee will forever and always hold my heart! Just saying.
April 8, 2025
I'm not going to lie... I was just a tad nervous going into this book. This is a novella in the Empire of Ash and Song series that follows Casandra, a character from the first book To Bind Fire. I had a hard time really caring about Casandra's character in TBF, entirely because she was such a mystery, and I couldn't quite put my finger on her motives. After completing this novella, I can whole heartedly say that I LOVE CASANDRA, and I cannot WAIT to see her character grow throughout this series.
Without spoiling anything, I really hope Travis makes an appearance later on in this series. I absolutely ADOREEEE his character and I NEED MORE TRAVIS CONTENT!!! I have heard that there are pirates later in the series and I will simply cease to exist if Travis makes his grand entrance in rugged pirate attire.
I also want to mention I am really happy with choosing to read this book after reading the first book To Bind Fire. I think you could read Casandra's Dragon first and then read To Bind Fire. In doing so, you would have all of the background for Casandra's character and would technically be the chronological reading order. However, in reading Casandra's Dragon second it brought a lot of mystery to her story and character, and I was able to pick up on a couple of easter eggs if you will which was fun to pick out. Solid book... solid read... now onto To Bind the Court!
Without spoiling anything, I really hope Travis makes an appearance later on in this series. I absolutely ADOREEEE his character and I NEED MORE TRAVIS CONTENT!!! I have heard that there are pirates later in the series and I will simply cease to exist if Travis makes his grand entrance in rugged pirate attire.
I also want to mention I am really happy with choosing to read this book after reading the first book To Bind Fire. I think you could read Casandra's Dragon first and then read To Bind Fire. In doing so, you would have all of the background for Casandra's character and would technically be the chronological reading order. However, in reading Casandra's Dragon second it brought a lot of mystery to her story and character, and I was able to pick up on a couple of easter eggs if you will which was fun to pick out. Solid book... solid read... now onto To Bind the Court!
April 15, 2025
An Empire of Ash and Song Novella
In this novella we learn more about “Lady Cassandra” from the series. We learn her story of how she left her family and got roped into going undercover in the Fire Empire.
Princess Casandra is the daughter of the Dragon Judge. We learn that Casandra has been raised in isolation with the Dragonbloods and only after bonding with her dragon does she learn the truth that the world outside her safe community is under the Fire Empire rule.
Her best friend fails the Dragon Judge’s “test” and is banished. In a need to find her friend and set things right Casandra finds herself in a world unfamiliar to her.
During her quest she meets a rebellion who’s working hard to infiltrate the Fire Empire.
I loved getting the background behind how Casandra ended up in the Fire Empire. I read this Novella after book 1 & 2. Some readers have commented that it can be read in any order. As a novella this is shorter than the other books, it left me wanting more. It was wonderful to get Casandras backstory so we know how she ended up at the Fire Empire court.
In this novella we learn more about “Lady Cassandra” from the series. We learn her story of how she left her family and got roped into going undercover in the Fire Empire.
Princess Casandra is the daughter of the Dragon Judge. We learn that Casandra has been raised in isolation with the Dragonbloods and only after bonding with her dragon does she learn the truth that the world outside her safe community is under the Fire Empire rule.
Her best friend fails the Dragon Judge’s “test” and is banished. In a need to find her friend and set things right Casandra finds herself in a world unfamiliar to her.
During her quest she meets a rebellion who’s working hard to infiltrate the Fire Empire.
I loved getting the background behind how Casandra ended up in the Fire Empire. I read this Novella after book 1 & 2. Some readers have commented that it can be read in any order. As a novella this is shorter than the other books, it left me wanting more. It was wonderful to get Casandras backstory so we know how she ended up at the Fire Empire court.
September 3, 2023
This is a coming of age story revolving around Cassandra, an initially very sheltered and naive princess. The character development is well done. Cassandra reacts appropriately to her circumstances and develops in a way that really makes the readers route for her. She’s a sweet character, very well intended and very chaotic. I’m looking forward to seeing her story progress in later books.
The writing is charming and whimsical - definitely following the style of a classic fairytale. A lot of the dialogue is over dramatic but that works well with this style of storytelling.
The world building is promising. We don’t get to see a lot as we are closely following Cassandra, who is still very new to the wider world, but the little insights we do get into the political and social workings of Carlson’s fantasy world are interesting.
A really good introduction to what will hopefully be an excellent series!
The writing is charming and whimsical - definitely following the style of a classic fairytale. A lot of the dialogue is over dramatic but that works well with this style of storytelling.
The world building is promising. We don’t get to see a lot as we are closely following Cassandra, who is still very new to the wider world, but the little insights we do get into the political and social workings of Carlson’s fantasy world are interesting.
A really good introduction to what will hopefully be an excellent series!
September 13, 2023
I was in such a reading slump that I not only stopped reading mid-book; but mid-series. Then I read almost this entire book in one sitting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall thoughts:
✨Amazing story, can’t wait to keep reading in this universe
✨Quick read, short and sweet
Likes:
✅Characters that you fall in love with instantly ✅Imperfect heroine who learns a lot over the course of the story and still has much to learn
✅Beautiful narrative with powerful quotes
✅Her and her best friend are one of the cutes couples ever
Dislikes:
❌Some parts of the plot move too quickly for the flow to be natural
❌Some characters in the story do some pretty messed up things, and I can already feel the “they did it for the right reasons”/“everything worked out in the end” redemption coming, and I can’t stand those. Hopefully I’m wrong though
❌I already know the couple I love doesn’t end up together and I’m bitter about it 😢
highly recommend
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall thoughts:
✨Amazing story, can’t wait to keep reading in this universe
✨Quick read, short and sweet
Likes:
✅Characters that you fall in love with instantly ✅Imperfect heroine who learns a lot over the course of the story and still has much to learn
✅Beautiful narrative with powerful quotes
✅Her and her best friend are one of the cutes couples ever
Dislikes:
❌Some parts of the plot move too quickly for the flow to be natural
❌Some characters in the story do some pretty messed up things, and I can already feel the “they did it for the right reasons”/“everything worked out in the end” redemption coming, and I can’t stand those. Hopefully I’m wrong though
❌I already know the couple I love doesn’t end up together and I’m bitter about it 😢
highly recommend
November 4, 2023
✨Dragons
✨Fast-paced Adventure
✨Friendship
✨Family
✨Betrayal
✨…And did I mention dragons?
Casandra’s Dragon is a prequel novella by D. E. Carlson @decarlsonauthor. It follows Casandra, a Dragonblood sheltered all her life, before she joins a force that gets her into a dangerous circumstance among the elite of the Empire.
It was an enjoyable and fast-paced read—and that cliffhanger at the end has me itching to know more! I already got To Bind Fire to get reading that so I can get answers!
Story: 3/5
Worldview: 5/5
Solid story and worldbuilding gives this novella a spotlight. Dialogue was very good, with a few awkward moments, but great pacing and some characters have strong personalities, if a bit larger than life at times. The novel gave prep academy vibes, then rebellion vibes, and it all fit together almost seamlessly.
Worldview is so entrenched in this novel, and I love how it’s not just subtle themes. Faith, sacrifice, relationship with God—all these concepts shine through brightly and unapologetically, and it’s refreshing.
Overall: 4/5 can’t wait to read To Bind Fire! Check out my review next week!
✨Fast-paced Adventure
✨Friendship
✨Family
✨Betrayal
✨…And did I mention dragons?
Casandra’s Dragon is a prequel novella by D. E. Carlson @decarlsonauthor. It follows Casandra, a Dragonblood sheltered all her life, before she joins a force that gets her into a dangerous circumstance among the elite of the Empire.
It was an enjoyable and fast-paced read—and that cliffhanger at the end has me itching to know more! I already got To Bind Fire to get reading that so I can get answers!
Story: 3/5
Worldview: 5/5
Solid story and worldbuilding gives this novella a spotlight. Dialogue was very good, with a few awkward moments, but great pacing and some characters have strong personalities, if a bit larger than life at times. The novel gave prep academy vibes, then rebellion vibes, and it all fit together almost seamlessly.
Worldview is so entrenched in this novel, and I love how it’s not just subtle themes. Faith, sacrifice, relationship with God—all these concepts shine through brightly and unapologetically, and it’s refreshing.
Overall: 4/5 can’t wait to read To Bind Fire! Check out my review next week!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
This is the prequel of the Empire of Ash and Song book series. It is a teeny- tiny little Novella of only 163 pages of pure, YA, christian fantasy gold. I was not expecting to like this book very much. I thought maybe it might be OK. The reason for that is because there's a negative stigma on christian fiction that it's boring; especially if it's YA. But this shocked me. It was dynamite in a small package. I don't know how the author did it. I don't know! The character development was there, the world building, adventure, intrigue, all of it. The best part, to me, above all, was the christian allegory interwoven in the story. I was constantly playing this game in my mind of seeing how many biblical connections I could make; trying to look for hidden meaning in everything. It was so fun! It does end on a cliffhanger, so keep the next book handy to continue the story. I think one of the major things you'll learn from this book is humility and why we have to go through hard things, sometimes, as Christians to strengthen our faith and our character. The author, D.E. Carlson, put her blood, sweat, and tears into this one. I can sense that. ❤️
One more thing I wanna point out. If dragons from fantasy novels unsettle you because, in the bible, dragons represent satan. Let me say, I completely understand that; however, Lucifer is actually a fallen angel, and the Dragon just represents him in allegorical fashion in the bible. In fantasy novels, dragons are usually looked upon with favor. In this particular novel, it seems to me, that the dragons can represent the Holy Spirit given to us by God. I like that because it allows for a beautiful biblical reference, while maintaining the "beloved dragon" idea from fantasy novels. We get the best of both worlds.
One more thing I wanna point out. If dragons from fantasy novels unsettle you because, in the bible, dragons represent satan. Let me say, I completely understand that; however, Lucifer is actually a fallen angel, and the Dragon just represents him in allegorical fashion in the bible. In fantasy novels, dragons are usually looked upon with favor. In this particular novel, it seems to me, that the dragons can represent the Holy Spirit given to us by God. I like that because it allows for a beautiful biblical reference, while maintaining the "beloved dragon" idea from fantasy novels. We get the best of both worlds.
September 2, 2023
This was such a fun book to read! It allowed the reader to peek into a new world that D.E. Carlson has created. I loved seeing Cassandra's character growth, her peoples way of life, and the religious aspects in the story. If there is anything I love more than dragons, it's people bonding with dragons and D.E. Carlson included that so well in her book. I loved to find that there were different groups of people with different societies and gifts. It was also cool to read all the little hints at what's to come in "To Bind Fire". The story of a demon possessed overlord, a banished best friend, a resistance, a young hero, and an undercover mission to overthrow a tyrant in order to free the world is everything!! I was so pleased with this read and can't wait to see what's next! :)
September 9, 2023
I found D E Carlson right before Cassandra’s Dragon released and I have to say, I am so glad I did! I loved the sneak peak into the world of Empire of Ash and Song and I can’t wait for To Bind Fire to come out.
Cassandra is strong, fearless, and more than a bit spicy. I love her determination even if it’s sometimes misguided. It will be extremely interesting to see the role she plays in To Bind Fire.
The only downside is a small feeling of incompleteness which obviously stems from the fact that it is a novella and only meant to be a prelude for To Bind Fire. I definitely would recommend reading it and checking out the Empire of Ash and Song series when it comes out.
Cassandra is strong, fearless, and more than a bit spicy. I love her determination even if it’s sometimes misguided. It will be extremely interesting to see the role she plays in To Bind Fire.
The only downside is a small feeling of incompleteness which obviously stems from the fact that it is a novella and only meant to be a prelude for To Bind Fire. I definitely would recommend reading it and checking out the Empire of Ash and Song series when it comes out.
September 11, 2023
OK, so I liked Casandra. She was a little annoying at first. Then I really started liking her. Then something happened, and after she got the dragon, I was like. Oh, my gosh, you're a complete idiot. But she was a complete idiot like we all are when we're 17/18 years old. We think we know everything. My favorite character is probably the grandmother. Idk how I feel about any of the rebls. Once I got 65% through, I could not stop reading, and I needed answers. AND THEN I'M LEFT WITH ALL THE QUESTIONS. I'm so excited to have the ARC for To Bind Fire tomorrow. I need to know what happens to these characters!
September 15, 2023
Thank you so so much to the author for sharing this with me!!!
I’m so so glad I had the pleasure of reading this #0.5 novella in the Empire of Ash and Song series !!! The first time meeting Casandra and her dragon and the first time meeting the incredibly wonderful world that is made of Dragonblood and Fireblood. In a story of rebellion, heroes and villains, and a young girl whose curiosity can lead her to the end of the world or to its saving, this fantasy book will catch you from the very first pages and will keep you in its grasp until the very end. I’m very very curious about getting to the first book in this series and watch Casandra’s adventure developing!!!
I’m so so glad I had the pleasure of reading this #0.5 novella in the Empire of Ash and Song series !!! The first time meeting Casandra and her dragon and the first time meeting the incredibly wonderful world that is made of Dragonblood and Fireblood. In a story of rebellion, heroes and villains, and a young girl whose curiosity can lead her to the end of the world or to its saving, this fantasy book will catch you from the very first pages and will keep you in its grasp until the very end. I’m very very curious about getting to the first book in this series and watch Casandra’s adventure developing!!!
October 7, 2023
THIS BOOK had me HOOKED! I’m mean obsessed! Putting it down was not an option!
Two dragon bloods- Casandra a girl who wants to be free, she feels there is more to life than a cave! Her best friend is the opposite, he just wants the basic life. But when faced with a test, fate was not in his favor. Failing meant banishment from his people. This event Sends Casandra spiraling. Now she must leave her cave behind to save her best friend and her people! Going in blindly and having no clue of the real world beyond the cave she grew up in!
Dragons, missions, fate and more! This book hits it all and will leave you wanting soooo much more! I wish you luck!
Two dragon bloods- Casandra a girl who wants to be free, she feels there is more to life than a cave! Her best friend is the opposite, he just wants the basic life. But when faced with a test, fate was not in his favor. Failing meant banishment from his people. This event Sends Casandra spiraling. Now she must leave her cave behind to save her best friend and her people! Going in blindly and having no clue of the real world beyond the cave she grew up in!
Dragons, missions, fate and more! This book hits it all and will leave you wanting soooo much more! I wish you luck!
September 10, 2023
This was such an amazing book. It definitely got me excited for “To Bind Fire” coming out in October 2023.
If you’re new to fantasy a lot of the world building can be kinda hard to follow or be overwhelming; but this was so easy to follow. Very descriptive with out being overwhelming. I fell in love with the MFC, Cassandra. You can tell the author spent a long time developing her and making her come to life.
The way she wrote about the bond with her and her dragon, Aurora, made me wish I had a dragon too!
If you’re new to fantasy a lot of the world building can be kinda hard to follow or be overwhelming; but this was so easy to follow. Very descriptive with out being overwhelming. I fell in love with the MFC, Cassandra. You can tell the author spent a long time developing her and making her come to life.
The way she wrote about the bond with her and her dragon, Aurora, made me wish I had a dragon too!
January 21, 2024
This was a great short story!! Despite its shortness in length, it was packed with adventure, humor and intrigue. As someone who read “To Bind Fire” first, I enjoyed seeing Casandra’s character grow and how she got to her position in “To Bind Fire.” Personally, I think I should have read “Casandra’s Dragon” first! HAHA! I am also looking forward to seeing what happens to Casandra in book 2 of this series! (Hurry, D. E. Carlson!! HAHA)
I totally recommend this book! If you like clean fantasy with adventure and dragons, this is the book for you!
I totally recommend this book! If you like clean fantasy with adventure and dragons, this is the book for you!
October 31, 2025
Pretty solid for a free novella.
The world introduced is promising, the dragons have some interesting lore, and the characters seem to have some interesting motivations to be explored. I had a couple minor issues with some of the later plot stuff, but overall it's a neat little novella and well worth checking out. I'll probably end up checking out the main series down the line, too.
It's free with signing up for the author's newsletter, so I'd definitely recommend grabbing a copy and checking it out.
The world introduced is promising, the dragons have some interesting lore, and the characters seem to have some interesting motivations to be explored. I had a couple minor issues with some of the later plot stuff, but overall it's a neat little novella and well worth checking out. I'll probably end up checking out the main series down the line, too.
It's free with signing up for the author's newsletter, so I'd definitely recommend grabbing a copy and checking it out.
September 4, 2023
an exciting experience that will give new readers a fascinating introduction to DE Carlson's world in the Empire of Ash and Song series. For those who have enjoyed the main novel, this novella will offer more lore and backstory into already beloved characters. The author has quite a command of language and structure, weaving a tale that paints pictures of action, adventure, and suspense that will stick with you long after you have finished.
Read it!
Read it!
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