A Curse of Scales & Feathers

Brides of the Dragon Kings

by S.D. Huston

She’s tormented for being different. He’s sick of burying his wives. When their fates are bound, can they forge a peace that entwines their hearts?

Airi’s unique hair and skin color bring her unrelenting grief. Scheming to flee her cruel mother, the seventeen-year-old awakens after a vicious beating to find her beloved sister enslaved over an accusation of theft. And when she trades her freedom to save her sibling, she’s horrified when she’s given as a tribute to a brutal Ice Dragon.

The Dragon King, Kalden keeps his true form hidden from the world. Cursed to wed those not of his choosing, the immortal reluctantly accepts a new offering but throws her into a cold tower refusing to grow close to the filthy mortal. But after a scolding from his brothers, he relents and gives his unwelcome guest comfortable accommodations with a warm bath that reveals her alluring beauty.

Desperate to escape, Airi befriends a kind hunchback who urges her to accept a proposal of marriage from the king as a means of avoiding slavery. And though Kalden tries to end the evil infecting his neglected kingdom, his increasing obsession with his stunning captive could end in a catastrophic heartache.

With a slaver and a magical nemesis plotting their demise, can they reclaim free will and find their own forever?

A Curse of Scales & Feathers is the heartwarming first standalone book in the Brides of the Dragon Kings fantasy romance series. If you like resilient heroines, slow-burn relationships, and deeply realized worlds, you’ll adore S.D. Huston’s flight of fancy.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Dragons

516 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2024

About the author

S.D. Huston is an epic romantasy and fantasy author with a passion for broken characters who claw their way through trauma, loss, and adversity to come out changed. She builds magic laced, war torn worlds where love is as dangerous as any blade and choosing each other can be the bravest act of all. Her stories pit fierce, complicated relationships against bloodshed, ruthless power, and destinies that do not play fair. Expect sweeping worlds, emotional stakes, and love that refuses to die. There may or may not be dragons, but there is always a hard-fought love story at the heart of the chaos.

Connect with S.D. Huston on her website at https://www.sdhuston.com.

Reviews

[Isabella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary: Meet Airi, a young woman tormented for her uniqueness – her hair and skin color set her apart, inviting nothing but grief. When she sacrifices her freedom to save her sister from enslavement, Airi finds herself in the icy clutches of the Dragon King, Kalden. Cursed to marry against his will, Kalden hides his true form and begrudgingly accepts Airi as his new tribute. But as their paths intertwine and their hearts awaken, they must navigate treacherous plots and magical enemies to reclaim their freedom and forge a future together.

Pros:
🌟 Five stars for this enchanting tale! "A Curse of Scales & Feathers" is a delightful blend of fantasy and romance that's sure to captivate readers from start to finish.

😍 A refreshing Beauty and the Beast retelling that breathes new life into a timeless tale. Huston weaves a spellbinding narrative filled with intrigue, romance, and mythical creatures aplenty.

🏰 The worldbuilding is top-notch, transporting readers to a realm where dragons reign and magic thrives. From icy towers to hidden chambers, every detail is meticulously crafted, immersing readers in a world of wonder.

❤️ Airi and Kalden's slow-burn romance is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. Their journey from reluctant companions to soulmates is a testament to the power of love amidst adversity.

Cons:
🐲 While the plot and characters shine, there were moments where the pacing felt a bit sluggish, like a dragon trudging through snowdrifts. But fear not, dear readers, for the story soars to new heights when the action ignites.


📚 In conclusion, "A Curse of Scales & Feathers" is a fantastical escapade that sweeps readers off their feet and carries them on a whirlwind adventure through a world where love conquers all – even the fiercest of dragons! Bravo, S.D. Huston, for crafting a tale as captivating as a dragon's gaze! 🐉✨

Disclaimer: A dragon-sized thank you to illustrious S.D. Huston for this ARC. All opinions are as uniquely mine as a phoenix rising from the ashes. 📚🔥

[Dianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I did very much enjoy this book- there were often times when I was very frustrated with it as well. There is a mild romance, found family, decent pace, villianous villian, all in a world that you uncover along the way. The fmc is strong and smart, and yet many times she is unbelievably obtuse and misses the mark. The Mmc is somewhat better and not quite as frustrating but not by much. I liked the dragons and fae and mild romance, but came away feeling more irritated with Airi than anything. Ultimately I'd call this a 3.5 if that were an option. This would be a 5 star based on the general plot and characters- but the times that Airi refused to hear what she was being told or directly did things to harm herself were frustrating and it kept popping up and leaving me mad, lol. She is young and some of her behaviors are attributed to that and her experiences- but often she seems to discount or ignore things that could have progressed her arc in a less frustrating way- she is in general a smart character, so this repeated obtuseness doesn't really fit with the rest of her as she's written. It's a great concept and mostly good but that fmc just took some of the enjoyment out.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible. From beginning to end there was not a part of it that made me want to put it down. It was brutal at some points, but that just had me aching for the characters and the outcomes even more. I'm pleased to say there was a happy ending and the evil in the book was defeated. I can't wait to read more in the world of Agondray!

*I received a copy of this book for free. The review is my own, honest and unsolicited.

[Maria]

DNF at page 100

[Ágnes Kovács · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started great but then slowed down. It only became enjoyable at the very end. The main characters were okay but honestly, the side characters were more interesting and I often found myself thinking that the book would be better if they were in the focus.
I wasn't satisfied with the world building either. A part of it is understandable because they can't talk about the curse. But sometimes it felt like that new information was treated as common knowledge, like I should know this stuff from a previous book or something.
The pacing was off as well. It started okay then in the middle(ish) it slowed down and became boring, and the ending was rushed.
All in all, the story itself was good. There is a lot of foreshadowing, especially in the epilogue. However, I'm not sure that I will read the rest of the books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of the Brides of the Dragon Kings series and this one has Dragon King, King Kalden the Eighteenth, the Unseen King of the northern kingdom Nordrun, realise he has to marry again or his their curse will kill him. He has three other brothers, Edmar, Zane, and Rin, all Ice Dragon Kings of separate kingdoms neighbouring his, who also have to go through all of the same issues regarding this curse. After he saw his last wife Mira die, he withdrew from his kingdom and from ruling his people. His role was supposed to be to protect the humans in his kingdom, but instead he has hidden himself away in the Ice Dragon’s lair at Castillo Castle and forgotten himself, whilst he went into a dark and deep depression. He had closed off most of the castle and let it go, whilst his loyal former nanny and now steward, Bryn, there to look after him. Some twenty years passed in this manner, but he knows he has to make a Dragon Call, for an innocent tribute to be brought to him. He cannot marry anyone he wants, only someone he comes across by chance and he cannot tell them anything about the curse. It will only be broken if he can get the woman to fall in love with his true self. As his curse begins to countdown the remaining time he has left, his body becomes more deformed, stuck in-between his fae and dragon forms, leaving him disfigured and covering his bulky back and legs in a long cloak and his snout and face with a mask. No one knows that the kings are in fact the last remaining Ice Dragons and they have kept it that way for over a thousand years!

Airi has never been treated well by her mother, a brothel madam, made to cover herself in ashes to hide her unusual light blue skin colour and strange coloured hair. She is nearing her eighteenth birthday, her Naming Day, and won’t have much choice in a future role, as her mother would have her work in the brothel in her back, like she does at times, or be sold as a slave to Lord Cyrillus Galton. At the moment, she works in the kitchen and cleans all the rooms after they are used, having to sleep on the floor of the kitchen with her little sister Briallen. Her mother seems to hate her for her differences and beats her at every chance she gets, leaving Airi black and blue. Airi got herself a job at Lord Galton’s estate a year ago, hoping to save enough money to help get her and her sister away from her mother, but she would owe him something in the near future! Now he has come for her, asking for her hand in marriage and she can’t figure out a way to say no to him without him taking offense! After her mother hears of Lord Galton’s interest in Airi, she beats her almost to death, and Airi finds her sister in Lord Galton’s hands after she tried to take a rose form his garden to replace the one Airi brought home that he had given her, but their mother had ripped apart and thrown away in anger. Airi tried to catch up to her before she got to his estate, but she was too late. Now she could lose her sister to him and so offers herself to him in her place, knowing she won’t be there as his wife now after refusing him, but as a slave of some kind and he doesn’t threat his slaves well, as she has seen. She gets locked away in an iron cabin he has on his land, finding a prisoner within, Adar, an Earth Fae, who is responsible for the estate being able to grow so much food, unlike the severe winter over the rest of the lands.

She is saved from whatever Lord Galton had planned for her, as the Dragon Call is heard and he is forced to give her over as the tribute to the Ice Dragon, taken under guard to the Ice Dragon’s cave lair and left there, with the exit covered so she can’t escape. If she was not given as a tribute, someone else would have had to be sacrificed and she is the odd one out in her community and someone her mother would love to see sacrificed! Kalden wants nothing to do with his latest tribute and locks her in a cold, bare tower, without even a blanket to keep her warm. Thankfully, she has never really minded the cold and also heals quicker than most. He practically ignores her, having Bryn only place a tray through her door, but not interact with her. His brothers berate him and make him realise he has to interact with her and if she doesn’t agree to marry him, he will need to send her out of the kingdom, or his life will be forfeit! Airi meets the hunchbacked resident of the castle, who seems to be the liaison between her and the king, and tries to convince her to marry the king to save herself from a life of slavery, as well as helping to save the kingdom. But he can’t tell her the ins and outs of his curse and that of his brothers, without severe consequences. Airi isn’t happy that the king doesn’t speak to her directly and berates his lack of effort in looking after his people, having been absent to what has been happening to them. He has allowed the winters to increase in length and severity and meeting his brothers only makes this worse. Kalden starts to take notice of what she has raised and to take back control of his kingdom, but certain people have become very wealthy and power hungry in his absence, and aren’t exactly keen to have him return to power.

Most who see Airi’s true skin and hair colour, realise she is not fully human, but what she actually is, is something hidden from her knowledge and long forgotten by most still alive today. Lord Galton believes there is something special about her and this as behind his reasoning to gain control over her! He broke the king’s former rules about slavery and was the main slave owner in the kingdom and the money he made, has allowed him to amass a large private army and amass some very dangerous weapons, with which he wants to eliminate the last of the Ice Dragons, blaming them for the perpetual winter the kingdom suffers from. Airi finds herself beginning to like Kal, as the cloaked figure calls himself, soon finding her conditions improving as Kal takes more notice. He wants information from her in return, about a dangerous black powder being traded by the dwarves. Airi wants to escape and save her sister, but agrees to a deal to lure Kal into thinking she won’t just run away even though she won’t agree to marry the king. There is so much more going on in the background for this first story in the book and Airi meets a magical nemesis in her dreams most nights, who seems like a friend, but who she really knows nothing about and who is in fact in league with the slaver and wants the Ice Dragons to suffer and die as well as he does. When Kalden opens up the castle to other slaves after enforcing the ancient laws that should never have allowed it to happen, Airi gets to make friends with a young human Eddie, who is in fact a fae with a very unusual gift. One that allows him to know far more than he should and which doesn’t end nicely for some.

Other fascinating characters are the mysterious snow leopard who is drawn to Airi, and a strange man wrapped in bandages, except his eyes, who can become invisible at will, has his own agenda in helping the dragon. Airi will finally find out who she really is, but that will bring lots of new discoveries and painful moments for her, and as the castle is laid under siege she will attempt to save her sister. She comes to realise just how much Kalden means to her and that he felt the same, but she may be too late to help him. So much more to come from this series and I can’t wait to hear more of the other brothers, especially Rin, whose love seems to have started this curse, the carefree Zane who passes on responsibility for his kingdom to a council, and Edmar who fell in love with a woman who saved him from the sea, but the path to true love is never easy as he finds out. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic start to "the Brides of the Dragon Kings" series

A fantastic story; a hint of Beauty & the Beast mixed with dragons (and other shifters), fae, elemental magics, battles, discovery, innocent romance and a love that conquers. Set in the same world as "The Sun Stone & Hybrid Prince", but centuries after, this focuses on Kalden, the younger of the 2 Dragon Princes (though he has more brothers since the last book).

Kalden and his brothers are cursed and keep their true forms hidden from the world; people only know them as the Dragon Kings and believe the dragons to be their pets. They must marry women, not of their choosing, and watch their wives die each time. Kalden has had enough of losing his wives, but after hiding from the world for 20 years (and becoming more beast than man) his brothers persuade him to put out the call for his next wife, chosen by his people.

Airian has always been tormented by her mother and everyone else due to her unusual colouring. After her sister is captured for stealing a rose she offers her freedom to save her. But then the Dragon's Call is heard and she is taken to be a tribute to the Ice Dragon. But rather than being eaten she's thrown in a tower and only visited by a hunchback trying to persuade her to marry the King.

Though she befriends the hunchback, she doesn't trust the King, having never met him; and when she sleeps she's visited by a kindly fae who warns her things are not what they seem at the castle. She accepts an offer from the hunchback that she'll let the King court her in return for a promise to help his people, free the slaves and rescue her sister from their mum. While still turning down his offer of marriage, she does get to know the King better, making friends and learning more about the land and her heritage.

But with the Lord working with other enemies to recapture her and claim the kingdom for his own will they manage to admit their growing love for each other before the curse claims them forever?

A great story, I haven't been able to put it down. Full of action, drama, magic, plot twists and love, all in a fantastic world created by S.D Huston. There are some great hints to Kalden's brother's stories and I can't wait to read what happens with Edmar (and his mermaid), Zane and Rin. There are also some lovey bits of humor throughout, I particularly loved Lord Hrothgar's response to Lord Galton's threats, which really made me smile (no spoilers, you'll have to read the book ).

I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Curse of Scales and Feathers is a fantasy romance by SD Huston, and is the first book in the Brides of the Dragon Kings series. This is one of those series that will be best read in order, which is why I wanted to get onto the bandwagon early, I was intrigued by the world presented in the blurb.

This is a fun high fantasy series - great for those that enjoy series such as Hunger Games, Eragon, although in my mind I think more of Tales of Verania (by TJ Klune) for the mix of fantasy, danger and romance that we get in this series.

The premise is simple: Many, many centuries ago four dragon brothers were cursed because one of them backed out of an arranged marriage. They were cursed to have to marry brides "found" for them - only to have to watch them grow old and die. The only way to break the curse is to find a true mate, but they are also in danger of losing their humanity and becoming full dragon if they allow themselves to spiral.

Airi has been relentlessly bullied and neglected her whole life - all because she looked different to everyone else. She is a human with a strange complexion but her parents are human and she is certain that there is no fae in her. She starts the book at seventeen, almost eighteen, and being forced to marry an evil human lord. The dragon king of her area, the Ice King, started to give up when his last wife died a couple decades earlier. In order to save her sister, Airi is suddenly now the unwilling tribute for the Ice King.

Kalden is the Ice Dragon and he doesn't realise what his descent into self pity is doing to the humans that had relied on him as their king and protector of their lands. Kalden's brothers give him an intervention and forces him to take this next wife given to him, despite the fact that Kalden is at the edge of his endurance with the curse.

However, with Airi things aren't so simple when they meet. Airi doesn't want to marry him and she doesn't see his as a mighty king. When Airi and Kalden meet things start to escalate - there is the threat of war, people and fae alike to protect (also, Airi does have a birthday before any romance remotely happens). There is a lot going on and Airi and Kalden need to learn to work together before they get to know each other to save innocent lives.

I'm definitely interested to see what happens with Kalden's brothers, we got a sneak peek into what is happening with them in this book and I need to know more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alexandra Preston · Rating 3 out of 5]

The thing that frustrated me about this book is that it has so, so very much promise. The premise is extremely interesting and there is a layer of intrigue to the story at the start that always pulls me in. But its at the middle where (like in the last S.D. book I read) where things start to fall apart a bit. Story bits don't get as much attention as they really need, like what is the importance of the moon stone, why do the Winter Princess and Airi meet in dreams, if Airi is so very powerful then why at the end of the book does she need to be rescued by basically everyone else? She does one thing and that seems more by happenstance than because she is powerful. It just seems so weird. Also why do we have beaver-bears and elephant-panthers with absolutely no description whatsoever. Did those animals start breeding together all of a sudden or is that just a lazy short hand used so that we don't have to come up with new animal types, spend time describing and naming them? Cause I would guess the second.
Also Airi's recklessness just seemed to kick into overdrive in the second half of the book and while I understand that is part of her being a G******* I just don't really understand why we don't really see much of her struggles with controlling her reckless urges earlier in the book. She honestly pulls two TSTL moves surrounding the Snow Leopard (which why do we have normal animals in with Elephant Panthers? I just want to know) and I cannot condone that. I just absolutely wanted to abandon her to her fate of death at that point.
Overall I think the potential is there, but there needs to be a bit of a heavier hand in the editing department. There are unnecessary plot sidelines that need to be cut from this book (perhaps saved for a later one) and the central plot needs to be tightened up a bit. There needs to be a bit more focus on the two main characters, their relationship, the logistics and overcoming the curse, and the defeat of someone who threatens the Kingdom and the main character's relationship. I think a lot of the separate time needs to be cut down, the travel time needs to be cut down, unnecessary secondary characters who provide the deus ex machina need to be trimmed, etc.
Lots of potential, but that is also what left me so frustrated because at the end of the book I just felt it could have been so much more than it was.

[Heather Kruczek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't underestimate a woman scorned. Slow burn between the main characters, but action packed for most of the storyline which will have you on the edge of your seat. Knowing the book is coming to a close and wondering how will the characters survive with so little time left. The first in the fantasy romance series of Brides of the Dragon Kings, there is no steam, but it doesn't detract from the enjoyment of the story. I loved both Kalden and Airi, along with the mysterious grouping of side characters. It does end in a HEA for Kalden and Airi, but leaves on a slight cliffhanger for the other brothers and the Snow Princess. This gave me some slight Beauty & the Beast vibes in some ways.

Never having read a book by this particular author, I wasn't sure what to expect, but the book hooked its talons into me and I found myself emerged in this wonderful vast land of fae, dragons and other magical creatures. I can certainly say I will be reading the rest of this series. Airi is such a strong, willful and loyal woman. Living a rough and poor life, she is beaten by her mother, forced into slavery, and then sent as the chosen sacrifice to the Ice Dragon. What she doesn't expect is to live a life without bruises as she tries to figure out Kalden, the curse, and what she is. The Snow Princess is quite the mastermind of evil. Upset by a lie, she cursed the four brothers to live an eternity of misery, while single handedly destroying a technologically robust city and numerous races. Only slightly more evil is Lord Galton, a man thirsty for so much power that he doesn't realize he is simply a puppet in a bigger play.

If you are a fan of fantasy romance, dragons, fae, and shifters, this book is worth the read. You won't be able to put it down. The characters are strong and resilient against all odds. Love and compassion can change a person and make a difference.

I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ana Lives For Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Straight to the point, I absolutely loved this book. Could've lived without certain issues but I guess it was for the plot.

“You have to convince her to marry you, Kalden. Whether you enjoy her company, you have to persuade her. Treat her right. Talk to her. Find out if she likes to read or go on long walks.” Zane’s eyebrows wiggled. “If that doesn’t work, most girls like it if you nibble on their ear.” ~ *Zane is my favourite*

Zane cocked his head, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Kalden couldn’t remember his youngest brother ever taking anything seriously. Zane boldly faced the world with a laugh and a smile, as if everything was one big joke or a game. - *Honestly that's me sometimes. Okay most times.*

*“Not everything pretty is nice and not everything ugly is awful.”*

“Never devalue yourself. It doesn’t matter what others think.”
“It matters when it comes from the person who is supposed to love you.”

Kalden had grown sick, not of his brothers, but of not having Airian awake and at his side. Life looked bleak. He lowered his forehead to his hand holding hers. “Airian, please.” I need you in my life.

The baron turned a triumphant look up to Kalden. “When I win, which I will, I will blind every soul within your walls if you don’t surrender before today’s battle. If we go another day, I will rupture every eardrum. The next day, I will cut out every tongue.” He smiled up at Kalden. “It’s up to you how much your people want to lose.”
At first, silence met Lord Galton’s threats. Kalden jumped at the sound of flatulence next to him. With pants down and a wide butt in the crenellation gap, Hrothgar let out one long, high-pitched passing of gas. The baron pulled his shoulders back. “I see I have your answer.” “You do.”

Need I put more? I'm excited for Rin's book next. I hope we get to see more of Airi and her heritage but I guess that's it? Onto the next brother.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[O'Livia Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the concept of A Curse of Scales & Feathers Brides of the Dragon Kings: Book 1 by S. D. Huston. It was very well written and thought out. I love how in this book by S. D. Huston we get to discover the wonderful world of Agondray and all the magic and magical creatures that reside there. We first get to discover the story of our first Dragon King, Kaldon who is the second oldest brother but he has had to take on the role of being the era because his oldest brother has lost his way. We discover that the dragon kings are four brothers who are cursed to marry and watch their wives die. In Kaldon case that has left him to become antisocial, neglectful, and on the verge of completely losing himself to his beast because he’s tired of losing his wife. However his brother comes to the rescue and convince Kaldon to give it one more chance and in enter his new bride of chance Airian. Airian is not what Kaldon was expecting but she just may be exactly what he needs. Airian is a powerhouse who may look different, has been brutally tormented by her mother, and is extremely overprotective of her younger sister. As a result Airi has a spine of steel and is extremely closed off to anyone other than her sister to protect herself. Will Kaldon and Airi get it together, or will they let the evil forces keep them for discovering what could be between them? I guess that you will have to read A Curse of Scales & Feathers to find out. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bethanne Bruninga-Socolar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not the biggest fan of fairytale retellings, but I enjoyed this creative retelling of Beauty and the Beast! Both Belle and her Beast (Airi and Kalden in this retelling) get much more extensive backstories and were convincing, well-developed characters. I really like that Huston developed a whole new world full of magic and myth in which to place the story (I feel like can't give any details for fear of interesting spoilers!). I also really like that this book serves as the start of a series, which will feature other fairytale retellings and interconnected characters. My one critique of this 1st book was that I would have appreciated a little bit more unfolding of some of the mysteries in the fantasy world and how the magic system works - we get teasers, but I still felt more in-the-dark at the end of the book than I usually feel at the end of the first book in a fantasy series. So, this definitely crosses genres with slightly different expectations than the straightforward fantasy that I spend more time with, and a delightful emphasis on the budding romance between our two heroes. And I highly recommend the separate scene detailing Airi's and Kalden's first time "lying together" *cough cough*! The book itself is clean romance, but that scene is scalding (excellent)!

Note: I do know the author via interactions through our channels on YouTube, but I genuinely enjoyed this book and tried not to let me personal admiration of her affect my feelings about the book.

[Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Brides of the Dragon Kings" series is defo going to be one to watch if A Curse of Scales and Feathers is anything to go by!

Brilliantly stunning and thrilling, kept my attention the who way at a screaming pace!

Beauty and the Beast, Dragaons, Fae, Dragons, magic, DRAGONS. Did I mention dragons? Oho, maybe I should say "dragon king" or leave you to discover that for yourself!

The dragon kings are brothers who are cursed to marry and watch their wives die. Absolutely antisocial, but there you have it, However, they didn't bank on Airian and what a powerhouse of an FMC she is! She looks different, has always been brutally tormented by her hellion of a mother and as such, has a spine of steel and a sheer bloody-minded tenacity that can melt rock. Her sister is a bit of a naughty bean so Airian steps in to take her place and here the fun begins!

I am not going to describe the story further, you can get that from the synopsis, but what I will say is that this series is going to be epic! I am absolutely certain that it will take off in a very big way! The writing style is gripping yet illustrious, the world building and character building is glorious, the litany of side characters stupendous! I absolutely loved this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one of the Brides of the Dragon Kings series. The story is like a fairy tele retelling with so many elements, dragons, princesses, a hunchback, magic, and good and evil. From the start of the book, you are drawn in and can’t put it down. This book has a strong, well-developed and an interesting story line with twists and unexpected turns that keep you reading and turning the pages. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginative and so well done that you're drawn into a fantastic world unlike any other. Strong, interesting, and fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic, Fae, danger, death, politics, intrigue, and subterfuge. The plot thickens, the suspense builds, and the passion erupts! I can’t wait to read the rest of this series. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story with all the characters that were within this book. The main characters were Airi's and Kalden.

Airi is different. She has unique hair and colored skin. She wants to leave home because her mother is mean. But she stays because she doesn't want to leave her sister there. One day, her sister, something that gets her into trouble with a neighbor. While saving her sister, she gets put in a building. The next day, the mayor came to get her because all the young women in the village got to see the dragon. Because the dragon has called. It is a tradition that the village has. She doesn't want to see the dragon.

Kalden is the dragon king and the dragon. He is a shifter. He has a curse on him. He and his brothers are trying to break it. It is not an easy curse to break. They have been trying for years. He hopes that it might work this time.

This was a fun story to read. It had action, adventure, suspense, and drama throughout.
There were a few giggles within.

I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout. This is my honest, unbiased opinion.

[Tina Lincoln · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing new version of Cinderella... kinda!
I Loved this long and well thought book! When you grow up poor, different than everyone else, are beaten, degraded, hungry all the time, and that is just the beginning of how Airi starts her life, as she was told.
She does everything she can for her sister, even give herself to be a slave to take the place of her sister after she takes a rose from the garden where one had been given to Airi.
It then goes on to Kalden, The Dragon King, who has been in Airis' mind as 'The Hidden King' as he has not been seen in years. She ends up being given to the King as a sacrafice for the dragon... but that is where the story gets really good! What better to hide someone, but in plain sight...
This story is suitable for most readers.
Thank you, S.D. Huston for a wonderful story! I look forward to the next one.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Msmomo73 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this new fantasy book and there are dragons. And I love dragons! This is a Beauty and the Beast retelling that was done wonderfully.

The world building was excellent and throughout the book you learned more and more why the world is the way it is today. I loved development of Airi over the course of the book. She went from being a beaten down young woman to a strong MFC. I loved how she came into who she is and she learned to stand up for herself while still maintaining her kind soul.

The Dragon King, Kaldon was a fantastic MMC. I loved how the curse played out and how he grew throughout the book. Deep down his is a good guy, despite how he started out at the beginning of the story. I truly grew to love him and I loved the interactions he has with his brothers. My heart broke for him and I was mad at him all at the same time throughout the book.

I highly recommend A Curse of Scales & Feathers and I look forward to the next installment of the series.

[Dcw · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a type of retelling of Beauty and the Beast, IMO, with a lot more intricacy and fantasy. It is the story of Airi (FMC) and Kalden (MMC) and how they come together (or almost don’t). Airi has a difficult decision to make whether to become the bride of a very cruel and abusive ruler, Lord Galton, or mysterious Kalden, who is King Kalden the Eighteenth or the Unseen King. Airi also has a third choice, neither suitor, and taking death as an escape but she lives only to take care of her sister and try to find freedom for both of them. There is much world-building, almost too much IMO, along with a bit of repetition. I understand that this is the first of the Brides of the Dragon Kings series but everything doesn’t have to be put into this first novel. Between the sheer number of characters and the different magical things happening, this has notes of War and Peace by Tolstoy in its complexity. It was an enlightening read but could perhaps benefit from being “less”.

[Joanna C · Rating 4 out of 5]

The blurb is what initially drew me in to this book. Overall, I enjoyed reading the story though there were some instances where I was confused about what was going on. I loved that even though the MMC really need the FMC to do something for him he didn't force her at the end. Their relationship started off rocky and after some mishaps they seemed to learn how to understand each other better. In the end the FMC was able to learn about her ancestry and who her family was. Which brought her the peace that she had been seeking. Both she and the MMC were able to finally come to terms with with who they were and that led them to be able to love each other completely. A good read if you like fantasy stories with dragons and mythical creatures.

[Ben Pick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic story. The lush world created had unique magic, creatures, and... curses. The rules were well defined and allowed for natural progressions of the story.

The character relations is where S.D. Huston shined. The multifaceted characters had clear drivers and the shifting points of view allowed us to know what the characters didn't. That led to plenty of moments where we felt the King's pain and Airi's frustration.

The action carried me through well to the end and excited to see the side characters step into the spotlight for the sequels.

There were clear inspirations from multiple classics that were infused to create something new.

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a treat to be immersed in Huston’s world of myth and legend and this new book lived up to my expectations. It is a page turner, but one of those you never want to end. I love the way Huston, seamlessly, toggles between her two main characters and draws out empathy towards them. I became totally invested in the Airi and Kalden’s growing relationship, although it never ran smoothly.

Huston builds the different plot lines skilfully; everything has purpose, should it be the impending war with Lord Cyrillus Galton or the mystery behind Airi’s heritage. I had a “ but of course” moment, when her heritage was revealed, and Huston’s introduction of this information, at this part of the story, enabled her to explore more possibilities for this book and future ones.

Once at the denouement stage of the story, I had moments of concern that all would not be well, but the ending is most satisfying. I am already looking forward to the next in the series.

[Heather Downs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I was up late several nights in a row reading it. Airi and Kalden's stories are interesting and I love the way that Airi's history unfolded. I also really enjoyed the fact that it wasn't instant love between the two.
There were a couple of moments of confusion for me, but I just had to read back a few pages to figure out my confusion. Full disclosure on the confusion though, it could have been due to the fact that it was 2 am and I just had to finish the chapter, haha.
I received an ARC copy for this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is def a twist on Beauty and the beast with added fantasy creatures and elemental powers and an amazing world to get lost in! I enjoyed the world development and how the book just kept building into the world, but never seemed overwhelming or unable to grasp the additions.

At times it did seem slow, but it more than made up for it as the story progresses!

This was def a slow slow burn, and there’s an added romance scene you can view, although I haven’t figured out how to get it yet. But I loved how the romance between the characters continued to progress throughout the story!

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse of Scales and Feathers is book 1 in Brides of the Dragon King Series by S D Huston. I could not put the book down. Yes, the book is about 500 pages… BUT, the story is so interesting and well written not to mention exciting that I flew through the book. Airi and Kalden are great characters and the supporting characters are incredibly outstanding. Airi was chosen to be the dragon tribute. Kalden kills all of his wives. I found a touch of Beauty and the Beast and I m looking forward to reading book 2. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another giveaway book finished! This was a fairly quick read, at less than 600 pages. Gives beauty and the beast vibes complete with a Curse and all. It is the first in the series and the only book out right now with the second in Kickstart and the 3rd planned for next year. Magic, enemies to lovers, dragons, fae, war, etc this has just about everything in a fantasy YA novel. I advise only reading when you know you have time, otherwise you might find yourself awake at 3 am unable to put it down.

[Linda Collister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ari was unloved, abused and felt no self worth. Kalden has given up hope of ever finding the one to break his curse. Can he ever stop burying the one chosen to be his wife. When Ari is chosen to be sacrificed to the Ice Dragon, she meets a strange disfigured man. She starts to think of him as a friend. To save the kingdom and rescue her sister, she must agree to wed the king. What she discovers about the disfigured man and her own secret past can change everything. Can she find love with the one man who might be able to set her free. Lots of surprises and a great story.

[Rose Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This originally exciting and enchanting tale enthralls the reader as it transports you to a world where magic is woven in with mystery, drama, intrigue, danger, and enticing love. Airi’s development is what made this tale worth reading. I love MFCs who come into their own while maintaining their inherent kindness. I’m excited for the next installment in the “Brides of the Dragon Kings” saga.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tonia Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Kal and airi are great. Enemies to love. I even liked all the side characters. The author kept me reading from start to finish in one go. She gives just enough of the other brothers to make you want more and just enough information on the back story to keep you engaged and turning the pages. Love, betrayal, family friends, enemies, and a deep calling between characters… Loved it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this had a great overall concept for a enemies to lovers fantasy novel, it had a great world and worked with everything that I was looking for. It was a strong start to the Brides of the Dragon Kings series, and loved the overall feel of this book. S.D. Huston has a great writing style and I'm glad I was able to read this.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.