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Pretense and Poison
As official emissary of the dragon-shifter Sea Clan, Tomas is ostensibly in Ardell to celebrate his brother's betrothal to the kingdom's crown princess and negotiate a new treaty. As unofficial spymaster, he's there to retrieve treacherous magic before it could be used against the dragons of his clan.Lady Alisandra flits through ballrooms and salons as naïve and carefree as any other noble-born daughter of Ardell. But a sacred oath leads her to more dangerous pursuits when no one is watching.When Alisandra and Tomas break into Ardell's royal vault on the same night, they find themselves thrown together on a strange quest filled with ancient secrets, renegade dark fey, and unimaginable danger.But will family duty and unbreakable vows end their new partnership before it truly begins?
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Published March 26, 2024
22 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Amberlyn Holland
31 books63 followersAmberlyn grew up reading her older sister’s SFF collection and her mother’s category romances so it’s only natural her storytelling leans toward fantasy and paranormal romance.
She currently lives in Northern New York where her writing schedule, and life, revolve around the whims of her dog. When not catering to a demanding terrier or getting lost in books, she enjoys crafting, watching football and hockey, and hanging out with her husband.
If you want to keep up to date on new releases and special events, sign up for her newsletter.
She currently lives in Northern New York where her writing schedule, and life, revolve around the whims of her dog. When not catering to a demanding terrier or getting lost in books, she enjoys crafting, watching football and hockey, and hanging out with her husband.
If you want to keep up to date on new releases and special events, sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 8, 2024
In "Pretense and Poison," Amberlyn Holland crafts a captivating narrative set in the enchanting world of the Dragon Ever After series, where readers are once again transported to the mesmerising realm of dragon-shifters and ancient magic. Set directly after the events of "Kiss the Dragon," this novel serves as both a standalone adventure and the beginning of a new series, the Sea Dragon Chronicles, promising an exhilarating journey filled with romance, mystery, and danger.
At the heart of the story are Tomas, the official emissary of the dragon-shifter Sea Clan, and Lady Alisandra, a noble-born daughter of Ardell. As they navigate the intricacies of courtly life and pursue their own personal quests, their paths converge on a fateful night when they find themselves embroiled in a quest to retrieve treacherous magic and thwart an ancient evil.
Holland's skilful characterisation brings Tomas and Alisandra to life, imbuing them with depth and relatability. Both of them, with their sense of duty and honour, are compelling protagonists who resonate with readers.
The chemistry between Tomas and Alisandra is solid, with their intrigue for each other and their banter adding levity and charm to their burgeoning relationship. Against the backdrop of romance, Holland seamlessly weaves elements of mystery and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns.
While "Pretense and Poison" can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, Holland expertly integrates references to previous instalments for returning readers, enriching the narrative with layers of depth and continuity. Moreover, her meticulous world-building draws readers into a rich tapestry of magic, politics, and mythology, immersing them in a world that feels both familiar and enchanting.
With a satisfying conclusion to the romance but with hints at future adventures to come in order to resolve the mystery and drama, "Pretense and Poison" leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Sea Dragon Chronicles. Whether you're a long-time fan of Amberlyn Holland's work or new to her enchanting universe, this novel promises an enthralling escape into a realm of dragons, romance, and adventure.
*I received an ARC but was not required to give a review - all thoughts are my own*
At the heart of the story are Tomas, the official emissary of the dragon-shifter Sea Clan, and Lady Alisandra, a noble-born daughter of Ardell. As they navigate the intricacies of courtly life and pursue their own personal quests, their paths converge on a fateful night when they find themselves embroiled in a quest to retrieve treacherous magic and thwart an ancient evil.
Holland's skilful characterisation brings Tomas and Alisandra to life, imbuing them with depth and relatability. Both of them, with their sense of duty and honour, are compelling protagonists who resonate with readers.
The chemistry between Tomas and Alisandra is solid, with their intrigue for each other and their banter adding levity and charm to their burgeoning relationship. Against the backdrop of romance, Holland seamlessly weaves elements of mystery and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns.
While "Pretense and Poison" can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, Holland expertly integrates references to previous instalments for returning readers, enriching the narrative with layers of depth and continuity. Moreover, her meticulous world-building draws readers into a rich tapestry of magic, politics, and mythology, immersing them in a world that feels both familiar and enchanting.
With a satisfying conclusion to the romance but with hints at future adventures to come in order to resolve the mystery and drama, "Pretense and Poison" leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the Sea Dragon Chronicles. Whether you're a long-time fan of Amberlyn Holland's work or new to her enchanting universe, this novel promises an enthralling escape into a realm of dragons, romance, and adventure.
*I received an ARC but was not required to give a review - all thoughts are my own*
February 19, 2025
Loved this one! Fast paced read that pulls you in right away. Reminiscent of Melanie Cellier’s Four Kingdoms. Loved Tomas & Alisandra together. Fun banter & great chemistry! Looking forward to reading the other crossovers🤎
March 12, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The male lead, Tomas, was very believable and relatable as a person. Both he and Alisandra were had a great chemistry that was low key but delightful. It is always nice to see two people who don’t think that they will ever be able to have someone meet that person and start to fall for that person! Their banter was very crisp and amusing. There was romance, action and even a mystery. Don’t forget the dragons and the need to defeat an ancient evil. This book had a HEA, but the story seems like it will continue on with two of Tomas’s brothers. From the epilogue, I can’t wait to read the next one.
If you haven’t read Amberlyn Holland before, this is a great book to start with. It is the beginning of what looks to be a three-book series all about guys/dragons that don’t see romance as an option. This ticks so many boxes for me. Don’t quote me on the exact number, but the next two books seem to be about his two brothers, so I am guessing. While this book takes place in the same world as Amberlyn’s other books, it is very much separate and doesn’t require that you have read any other books to be fully engaged with the plot and characters.
If you are already a fan, these book focuses mainly on Tomas and Alisandra, but you get to meet a few returning favorites as well.
I received this book as an ARC, but my thoughts are my own.
If you haven’t read Amberlyn Holland before, this is a great book to start with. It is the beginning of what looks to be a three-book series all about guys/dragons that don’t see romance as an option. This ticks so many boxes for me. Don’t quote me on the exact number, but the next two books seem to be about his two brothers, so I am guessing. While this book takes place in the same world as Amberlyn’s other books, it is very much separate and doesn’t require that you have read any other books to be fully engaged with the plot and characters.
If you are already a fan, these book focuses mainly on Tomas and Alisandra, but you get to meet a few returning favorites as well.
I received this book as an ARC, but my thoughts are my own.
March 25, 2024
Pretense and Poison was an enjoyable read. While it had some magic I have seen elsewhere a bit, it had an original plot line that I found most interesting. It really drew me in around the 30% mark and I ended up reading instead of sleeping. This is a stand-alone book and the main plot is resolved, but the background plot is not and I eagerly look forward to finding out more about that in the next book!
Romance: clean, some kisses but they are not too intimate. I felt the romance did move a little fast, but this is fiction. ; )
Violence: some fighting and near death, no blood that I can remember. Altogether, it felt very mild
I received an advanced copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own, and I was going to read the book anyway, advance copy or not. : )
Romance: clean, some kisses but they are not too intimate. I felt the romance did move a little fast, but this is fiction. ; )
Violence: some fighting and near death, no blood that I can remember. Altogether, it felt very mild
I received an advanced copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own, and I was going to read the book anyway, advance copy or not. : )
March 26, 2024
A delightful T&YA royalty fairy tales & folklore title. Tomas is ostensibly in Ardell for his brother's betrothal celebration and to negotiate a new treaty. In reality, he's there to recover magic dangerous to his clan. Lady Alisandra fits in among aristocrats. She also has other plans. When they nefariously meet in the royal's vault, danger erupts around them.
The tension and flirty banter between the story's protagonists is enchanting. Their initial quests, while a bit droll, serve to unite them on a much more grand adventure. The end of this couple's tale is enticing. The epilogue serves as a foreshadowing of a future title.
Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Tragic. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
The tension and flirty banter between the story's protagonists is enchanting. Their initial quests, while a bit droll, serve to unite them on a much more grand adventure. The end of this couple's tale is enticing. The epilogue serves as a foreshadowing of a future title.
Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Tragic. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
March 26, 2024
This series I believe is only a trilogy since it deals with four brothers. The youngest brother’s story takes place in “Kiss the Dragon” and this starts just after it.
It was interesting that the author decided to keep to the same universe as the Dragons Ever After Series but to fill in some details of the past. “Kiss the Dragon” was the love story of a couple who had four children who later went on to have their own love stories told in the Dragons Ever After Series. And hints were given at the end of “The Huntsman Redeemed” of that something that happened in the past but was never explained. So this story fills in those gaps.
And while you get your happily ever after in this book, you know there is more adventure to come and still an enemy to defeat.
Another great story. I can’t wait until the next one!
(I received a free copy.)
It was interesting that the author decided to keep to the same universe as the Dragons Ever After Series but to fill in some details of the past. “Kiss the Dragon” was the love story of a couple who had four children who later went on to have their own love stories told in the Dragons Ever After Series. And hints were given at the end of “The Huntsman Redeemed” of that something that happened in the past but was never explained. So this story fills in those gaps.
And while you get your happily ever after in this book, you know there is more adventure to come and still an enemy to defeat.
Another great story. I can’t wait until the next one!
(I received a free copy.)
March 28, 2024
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. Beautifully written with a gripping suspenseful plot and an emotionally charged storyline, this story will keep your attention from the first page til the end. Tomas, an undercover spy for his clan of dragons has his steelclad emotions in upheaval after meeting Alisandra, who has a duty of her own, at his brother’s betrothal party. Why is she there and what is her agenda? Danger becomes too real as a plot is uncovered that would threaten their existence. Can these two search for answers and work together to stop evil from destroying everything without their emotions getting involved, or will their developing attraction make them stronger against an evil plan? Fast paced action has the story moving quickly as all is uncovered with an ending that leads you wanting to know more!
May 7, 2024
Dragons, Fae, & More Mysteries.
This was an introductory story about a new clan of people, the Sea Dragons, but still from the worlds of Amberlyn’s Ever After series. After all the introductory and back story of nations and people, the story was told well without a lot of extraneous feelings and descriptions, but with lots of action. This world keeps getting more interesting. There is an evil fae on the loose trying to overturn kingdoms, and there are people fighting against falling in love. The legends say fae are a myth, but evidently they aren’t a myth, but are real. The legends say water people are a myth, but will they turn out to be real, also? Will Alisandra and Tomas and Tanraed and others find out mermaids are real? Can’t wait for the next book in the series! I received an ARC copy from the author.
This was an introductory story about a new clan of people, the Sea Dragons, but still from the worlds of Amberlyn’s Ever After series. After all the introductory and back story of nations and people, the story was told well without a lot of extraneous feelings and descriptions, but with lots of action. This world keeps getting more interesting. There is an evil fae on the loose trying to overturn kingdoms, and there are people fighting against falling in love. The legends say fae are a myth, but evidently they aren’t a myth, but are real. The legends say water people are a myth, but will they turn out to be real, also? Will Alisandra and Tomas and Tanraed and others find out mermaids are real? Can’t wait for the next book in the series! I received an ARC copy from the author.
February 15, 2026
This was an enjoyable read for sure, but I must admit the wordiness did make it feel bogged down just a little. Definitely description-heavy. Which isn't bad, it just felt a little distracting.
I enjoyed both POVs, Tomas and Alisandra's. I did like Alisandra more though; she's less dramatic and cocky than Tomas. I do like Tomas too and I love how soft and gentle he is with her even if he is a little bit of a sassy little jerk sometimes 😅 It is funny to me though, Tomas prides himself on hiding his feelings and being secretive when that man has big enough emotions for all of them. Oh, and the romance in this is both enemies-to-lovers AND fake dating, which is fun. It did move kind of fast (like, enemies to lovers in under a week) but hey, this is a fantasy romance, so I'm not necessarily expecting it to be realistic. It is quite fun, with all the banter and chemistry between them.
The villian is deplorable but I can't say I'm surprised by the big reveal. Although the *bad guys* at the very end were kind of cool to me actually 😅 Minor spoiler: for anyone else who has watched Once Upon a Time, they reminded me of Peter Pan's shadow.
Sensitive content includes mild violence, romance/kissing (not very heavy), and lots of magic, both dark and light.
I enjoyed both POVs, Tomas and Alisandra's. I did like Alisandra more though; she's less dramatic and cocky than Tomas. I do like Tomas too and I love how soft and gentle he is with her even if he is a little bit of a sassy little jerk sometimes 😅 It is funny to me though, Tomas prides himself on hiding his feelings and being secretive when that man has big enough emotions for all of them. Oh, and the romance in this is both enemies-to-lovers AND fake dating, which is fun. It did move kind of fast (like, enemies to lovers in under a week) but hey, this is a fantasy romance, so I'm not necessarily expecting it to be realistic. It is quite fun, with all the banter and chemistry between them.
The villian is deplorable but I can't say I'm surprised by the big reveal. Although the *bad guys* at the very end were kind of cool to me actually 😅 Minor spoiler: for anyone else who has watched Once Upon a Time, they reminded me of Peter Pan's shadow.
Sensitive content includes mild violence, romance/kissing (not very heavy), and lots of magic, both dark and light.
March 25, 2024
Pretense and Poison (Sea Dragon Chronicles Book 1) is an exciting thrilling fantasy by Amberlyn Holland. It is clean, wholesome fantasy but don’t let that made you think it is slow or boring because it is certainly action-packed. Two characters who at first seem to be on opposite sides find that they are trying to do the same thing, look out for the good of the people when evil threatens.
This short novel is packed with characters who are well developed and a plot that is well thought out too. I was able to read Tomas’ and Lady Alisandra’s story in one afternoon. The author gives a bit of a teaser at the conclusion so now I can hardly wait for the next in the series.
This short novel is packed with characters who are well developed and a plot that is well thought out too. I was able to read Tomas’ and Lady Alisandra’s story in one afternoon. The author gives a bit of a teaser at the conclusion so now I can hardly wait for the next in the series.
May 8, 2024
This is such a good read! A wonderfully written story filled with action, suspense, magic and intrigue as this gripping and thrilling adventure takes off. Two strong mc’s who find themselves having to work together to find answers and stop evil from destroying everything as they know it, all whilst battling their chemistry and feelings for each other. Throw in some twists and turns, a few surprises and incredible world building and you find yourself hooked and wanting more!
July 20, 2025
Decent storyline, needs work in several areas
I liked the overall storyline. It develops well from mysterious to more world-threatening. I found the grammar not so good - far to many unnecessary fragments. I also did not care much for the show and tell, especially with emotions of the characters, as though the reader couldn't tell from the show and needed to be told on to of that. A good effort overall that needs some serious content editing.
I liked the overall storyline. It develops well from mysterious to more world-threatening. I found the grammar not so good - far to many unnecessary fragments. I also did not care much for the show and tell, especially with emotions of the characters, as though the reader couldn't tell from the show and needed to be told on to of that. A good effort overall that needs some serious content editing.
January 4, 2026
dnf at 21%
Not my style of writing. It is very tell-not-show, and feels a bit like the author assumes you‘re an idiot. The pacing is a bit odd and scattered, short dialogue followed by long paragraphs of explaining every tiny thought the character has and making random, unrelated statements in the middle of the text.
Plus, the beginning already exhausted me because it was just a huge info dump.
Not my style of writing. It is very tell-not-show, and feels a bit like the author assumes you‘re an idiot. The pacing is a bit odd and scattered, short dialogue followed by long paragraphs of explaining every tiny thought the character has and making random, unrelated statements in the middle of the text.
Plus, the beginning already exhausted me because it was just a huge info dump.
March 15, 2024
I love this vibrant world Amberlyn has created and I am so excited every time she revisits it with new stories! Her skill as a writer has only grown since the beginning, bringing her innate talent for world building into even more satisfying tales. I can’t wait for book two of this new series!
March 1, 2025
Exciting clean read
I am loving this first book in the spin off series. Dragon shifters, fey, and a quest to retrieve dangerous fey artifacts, lots of witty banter and unexpected romance (well unexpected for Tomas and Lis) have me eager to read the next book in the series.
I am loving this first book in the spin off series. Dragon shifters, fey, and a quest to retrieve dangerous fey artifacts, lots of witty banter and unexpected romance (well unexpected for Tomas and Lis) have me eager to read the next book in the series.
November 29, 2025
interesting and exciting
Love the back story to the fantastic stories in the previous series. Enjoyed and continuing to read more of these fantasy characters.
Love the back story to the fantastic stories in the previous series. Enjoyed and continuing to read more of these fantasy characters.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews