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A Wildfire in the Grove: The Druid and the Dragon Queen, Book One
"The dragons are a part of me. They're in my blood.”
Aiya Velanyon is a descendant of conquerors; a dynasty of dragon riders that flew across the sea to dominate a continent. The druids who lived there have been wiped out, and magic disappeared from the land. The dragons died out within a generation.
As the last heir to the Velanyon bloodline, Aiya must marry. The king calls for all eligible noblemen from across the continent to come prove their worthiness for the Dragon Princess.
When Aiya's world crumbles to dust around her, she finds an unexpected safe harbor in Draven, a mysterious ranger who holds a dark secret.
She is his madness. He is her salvation.
But her trials are far from over, She needs to find a way to bring back the dragons, or she'll never be whole.
And she needs to do it before someone else does it; someone who would use them to break the world.
Aiya Velanyon is a descendant of conquerors; a dynasty of dragon riders that flew across the sea to dominate a continent. The druids who lived there have been wiped out, and magic disappeared from the land. The dragons died out within a generation.
As the last heir to the Velanyon bloodline, Aiya must marry. The king calls for all eligible noblemen from across the continent to come prove their worthiness for the Dragon Princess.
When Aiya's world crumbles to dust around her, she finds an unexpected safe harbor in Draven, a mysterious ranger who holds a dark secret.
She is his madness. He is her salvation.
But her trials are far from over, She needs to find a way to bring back the dragons, or she'll never be whole.
And she needs to do it before someone else does it; someone who would use them to break the world.
477 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2024
26 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 9, 2024
It's a breath of fresh air when the female main character, Aiya, isn't a born killer who takes lives like she has done it her entire life. She grieves, she's does not hide her emotions, she's a easily relatable character, AND SHES 26! As someone whose 20s have come and gone - a novel about a woman princess who isn't around 17 years old makes me so happy. 🤣
The worldbuilding flows so beautifully in this book, and the scene descriptions are wonderfully worded without being wordy. The story moves at a great pace, you never feel that a scene is drawn out for too long (and sometimes it feels it might not be long enough!).
Wildfire in the Grove is full of forbidden love, twists that will make your jaw drop (and if you're me, gasp aloud), strong main characters that are still relatively normal with emotions, and more.
Ultimately I can't wait for more. I'm sad I read this as an ARC so now I have to wait EVEN LONGER for the sequel. But 🤞🏽 good things come to those who wait (and hopefully dragons). 🐲
The worldbuilding flows so beautifully in this book, and the scene descriptions are wonderfully worded without being wordy. The story moves at a great pace, you never feel that a scene is drawn out for too long (and sometimes it feels it might not be long enough!).
Wildfire in the Grove is full of forbidden love, twists that will make your jaw drop (and if you're me, gasp aloud), strong main characters that are still relatively normal with emotions, and more.
Ultimately I can't wait for more. I'm sad I read this as an ARC so now I have to wait EVEN LONGER for the sequel. But 🤞🏽 good things come to those who wait (and hopefully dragons). 🐲
September 4, 2024
Idea and concept wise— interesting and has a lot of potential. I think that's the strength of this novel overall.
As much as I want to give this one a higher rating, I just couldn't. Again, this novel is interesting, that much I admit.
My main issue and the reason why I can't give this a higher rating is because of the writing and execution overall. I wasn't really that convinced with the world-building and the plot flow. It feels like it wasn't that fleshed out for me, and it took me a while to really picture it out.
Other than that, there's also some semi-direct nod to HOTD names that had me raising my brow.
Furthermore, the dialogues or some of the phrases felt awkward at times. You can also feel the inconsistency of it.
Another thing is the FMC. For a 26 years old FMC, she's quite immature and, at the same time, weak for me. Her character wasn't really that captivating for me. I really wish that she was much more likeable.
MMC, quite intriguing, I hope to see more developments of him in the 2nd novel.
Although the romance could quite need developments and tweaking, I could say the spice were decent.
Plus, points are also for the interesting characters here. I hope to see more of them in the 2nd novel.
Overall, it could have been better. Potential is there, I wish the execution delivered. Might be anticlimactic as well.I hope the 2nd one will be better.
Thank you, author, for the e-arc opportunity.
—-----
Release Date: September 5, 2024
Date Read: August 29- September 4, 2024
Ratings: 3⭐️
As much as I want to give this one a higher rating, I just couldn't. Again, this novel is interesting, that much I admit.
My main issue and the reason why I can't give this a higher rating is because of the writing and execution overall. I wasn't really that convinced with the world-building and the plot flow. It feels like it wasn't that fleshed out for me, and it took me a while to really picture it out.
Other than that, there's also some semi-direct nod to HOTD names that had me raising my brow.
Furthermore, the dialogues or some of the phrases felt awkward at times. You can also feel the inconsistency of it.
Another thing is the FMC. For a 26 years old FMC, she's quite immature and, at the same time, weak for me. Her character wasn't really that captivating for me. I really wish that she was much more likeable.
MMC, quite intriguing, I hope to see more developments of him in the 2nd novel.
Although the romance could quite need developments and tweaking, I could say the spice were decent.
Plus, points are also for the interesting characters here. I hope to see more of them in the 2nd novel.
Overall, it could have been better. Potential is there, I wish the execution delivered. Might be anticlimactic as well.I hope the 2nd one will be better.
Thank you, author, for the e-arc opportunity.
—-----
Release Date: September 5, 2024
Date Read: August 29- September 4, 2024
Ratings: 3⭐️
July 4, 2024
This is the first ARC I’ve ever received and boy, did it give me high hopes for the future! This book is AMAZING! I found myself full face grinning often, gasping out loud, just all around in shock at how good this book was. I highly highly highly recommend this book. It is a phenomenal first book in this series and I’m so excited for where this story is going! Aiya is an amazing FMC who is strong willed and so easy to love. She doesn’t take crap from anyone and has a fire inside her that I’m dying to see develop in future novels in this series. And the MMC is to die for! No spoilers but it’s impossible not to fall for him! The world building and history spelled out in this story are so compelling and lovely. Seriously, do yourself a favor and read this! Now I’m just frustrated I have to wait who knows how long for the next one!
September 6, 2024
ARC Reciew- A Wildfire in the Grove by Esmeray Sultan
Rating 5⭐️ and spice is 2🌶️
TROPES—
🗡️Forbidden Love
👑Touchbher and ☠️
🗡️Healthy Romantic Relationship
👑Strong and Relatable FMC
🗡️Dragons and Druids
👑He Falls First
This is my first book by Esmeray and I thank you so much for letting me read because D^MN you got me hooked. I absolutely loved this book and I can’t wait for book 2. I need to know if everything that happens goes to lead to a HEA or will it shatter me. This book has plot twists I never saw coming and yet I crave more.
AIYA— She is the dragon princess. However dragons haven’t been seen for years. She feels them in her soul but she doesn’t know where they are or the eggs can be found. She is supposed to find a husband and fulfill her duties of a soon to be Queen. She is fierce and she takes no shit from anyone sometimes even her father the King. She didn’t expect that one of the men courting her would change things forever for her.
DRAVEN— He has so many secrets that you don’t see coming and yet you understand them. He had come to her kingdom to court the princess but her also had other plans in mind too. All the plans seems to be nonexistent when it comes to her. He falls for her hard.
“Ayia,” “I need you,” “just as I need breath in my lungs, food in my belly, or earth beneath my feet.”
They are enemies and while he knows it, she has no clue. He changes everything for her and yet she does the same for him. He will protect her at all costs and anyone dare hurt her will die by his hand. However when she learns of his secrets and lies will they come closer together or will she hate him forever.
Rating 5⭐️ and spice is 2🌶️
TROPES—
🗡️Forbidden Love
👑Touchbher and ☠️
🗡️Healthy Romantic Relationship
👑Strong and Relatable FMC
🗡️Dragons and Druids
👑He Falls First
This is my first book by Esmeray and I thank you so much for letting me read because D^MN you got me hooked. I absolutely loved this book and I can’t wait for book 2. I need to know if everything that happens goes to lead to a HEA or will it shatter me. This book has plot twists I never saw coming and yet I crave more.
AIYA— She is the dragon princess. However dragons haven’t been seen for years. She feels them in her soul but she doesn’t know where they are or the eggs can be found. She is supposed to find a husband and fulfill her duties of a soon to be Queen. She is fierce and she takes no shit from anyone sometimes even her father the King. She didn’t expect that one of the men courting her would change things forever for her.
DRAVEN— He has so many secrets that you don’t see coming and yet you understand them. He had come to her kingdom to court the princess but her also had other plans in mind too. All the plans seems to be nonexistent when it comes to her. He falls for her hard.
“Ayia,” “I need you,” “just as I need breath in my lungs, food in my belly, or earth beneath my feet.”
They are enemies and while he knows it, she has no clue. He changes everything for her and yet she does the same for him. He will protect her at all costs and anyone dare hurt her will die by his hand. However when she learns of his secrets and lies will they come closer together or will she hate him forever.
June 27, 2024
Update: changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars this book has been stuck in my head. My mind is still processing this book. It's 100% a one more chapter at 11:30 pm till you realize that you have now finished the book.
This book had me guessing the whole way through. This series definitely has the potential to be an amazing series. Can't wait for the next
This book had me guessing the whole way through. This series definitely has the potential to be an amazing series. Can't wait for the next
September 9, 2024
This was my first arc reads and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I could tell that this book would be the first in the series by the amazing world building and detail that went into it. I cannot wait for book two to come out. The story had twists and turns that had you guessing and kept you hooked in the night reading “one more chapter”. Definitely add this to your TBR! I’m excited to see where the story goes.
April 17, 2025
3.5⭐️
Pretty solid Romantasy, emphasis on the romance because those scenes were spicy 🌶️ (and a bit long, but that’s just my taste)
The final 50 pages were my favorites, especially pacing wise. There were some moments of slow pacing, which can be understandable considering it is the first book of a series and details need to be shared.
I greatly appreciated Aiya being capable of defending herself whilst also embracing her femininity. So often with girl bosses they become these very masculine, cold blooded killers. It was a welcomed surprise that not only does she allow herself to feel her emotions but she also prefers dresses to pants. Cute.
Caveat about Aiya though, her personality wasn’t my favorite. Often her reactions were wildly large for situations, they didn’t match which was a bit jarring at times.
Fans of Romantasy should give this one a go. Especially if you like the spice.
Pretty solid Romantasy, emphasis on the romance because those scenes were spicy 🌶️ (and a bit long, but that’s just my taste)
The final 50 pages were my favorites, especially pacing wise. There were some moments of slow pacing, which can be understandable considering it is the first book of a series and details need to be shared.
I greatly appreciated Aiya being capable of defending herself whilst also embracing her femininity. So often with girl bosses they become these very masculine, cold blooded killers. It was a welcomed surprise that not only does she allow herself to feel her emotions but she also prefers dresses to pants. Cute.
Caveat about Aiya though, her personality wasn’t my favorite. Often her reactions were wildly large for situations, they didn’t match which was a bit jarring at times.
Fans of Romantasy should give this one a go. Especially if you like the spice.
August 16, 2024
°••°••°📖 ARC REVIEW 📖 °••°••°
A Wildfire in the Grove
by Esmeray Sultan
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book stole my heart. I'm devastated it's over and the next one isn't out.
If you love:
•Touch her and die
•Forbidden love
•Strong FMC
•Obsessed MMC
•Romance, drizzled in action and spice.
This book is for you. Esmeray has really provided when we said we wanted relatable.
Aiya remind me of Merida in Brave. (Ya know the Disney movie) Aiya is stubborn, strong willed, and not your typical 'princess'. Aiya's journey is definitely one that explores growth, loss, finding yourself.
Along her journey we meet Draven. The relationship that develops with these two displays a healthy dynamic as they learn each other.
I would describe Draven as a our mysterious Azriel mixed with Rhysand and Cassian out of the famous ACOTAR series. Basically Draven is the bat boys in one and damn does it make him the ideal book boyfriend.
While the spicy scenes are minimal spice they focus on all the right things. And the power in our FMC as she completely embodies the seductive woman we all want to feel.
Then the plot twists. My oh my, just when you think the story will start to slow down.... BANG! Plot twist that completely pulls you back in.
Overall I fell in love with this book as it went on and I am desperate for more!
PS. Did I mention dragons?!
PPS. Did I mention Esmeray is an indie author?!
PPPS. The release date for this book is 5th of September, pre order available now!!!
A Wildfire in the Grove
by Esmeray Sultan
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This book stole my heart. I'm devastated it's over and the next one isn't out.
If you love:
•Touch her and die
•Forbidden love
•Strong FMC
•Obsessed MMC
•Romance, drizzled in action and spice.
This book is for you. Esmeray has really provided when we said we wanted relatable.
Aiya remind me of Merida in Brave. (Ya know the Disney movie) Aiya is stubborn, strong willed, and not your typical 'princess'. Aiya's journey is definitely one that explores growth, loss, finding yourself.
Along her journey we meet Draven. The relationship that develops with these two displays a healthy dynamic as they learn each other.
I would describe Draven as a our mysterious Azriel mixed with Rhysand and Cassian out of the famous ACOTAR series. Basically Draven is the bat boys in one and damn does it make him the ideal book boyfriend.
While the spicy scenes are minimal spice they focus on all the right things. And the power in our FMC as she completely embodies the seductive woman we all want to feel.
Then the plot twists. My oh my, just when you think the story will start to slow down.... BANG! Plot twist that completely pulls you back in.
Overall I fell in love with this book as it went on and I am desperate for more!
PS. Did I mention dragons?!
PPS. Did I mention Esmeray is an indie author?!
PPPS. The release date for this book is 5th of September, pre order available now!!!
August 23, 2024
This book now lives rent free in my head and I'm not mad about it. Esmeray's writing is so beautiful, transformative and her world building makes it feel like you're right there in Ashtara and Tir Rúnda. In the story follow Aiya Velanyon who is by no means a damsel in distress, but a dragon princess who has found herself forced to be married in order to produce an heir to keep her bloodline going. While Aiya falls for one of the suitors Draven a man of mystery, but her father has a different plan for her and she finds herself betrothed to another suitor. Shortly after that scandal hits the kingdom and Aiya and Draven find themselves escaping for their lives. The story goes on from there with twists and spice and a mission back to Aiya's kingdom to rescue the dragon eggs.
Upon finishing this book you'll be left with wanting more, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't wait read it when it comes read it when it comes out on Sept 5th. Thank you Sultan Publishing for the free arc in exchange for my honest review! If you love fantasy, adventure, and like your books on the spicy side-A Wildfire in the Grove: The Druid and the Dragon Queen is the book for you!
Upon finishing this book you'll be left with wanting more, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't wait read it when it comes read it when it comes out on Sept 5th. Thank you Sultan Publishing for the free arc in exchange for my honest review! If you love fantasy, adventure, and like your books on the spicy side-A Wildfire in the Grove: The Druid and the Dragon Queen is the book for you!
September 5, 2024
Where do I begin?!?!
This book had me hooked from the first page! The writing flows extremely well and the world building and descriptions of people are beautifully done. This was my first ARC book and boy it did not disappoint! As an AVID Game of Thrones fan I was happy to see the comparison of the two did not fall short!
Also as a woman in her 30s it was so refreshing to see a princess who was not a “child” and who could hold her own! Too many times in fantasy books the FMC is maybe 17 and still seems very childish which can sometimes be hard to fully allow myself to get immersed into the character, so having the ability to better connect with this FMC was a breath of fresh air! The romance had me grinning ear to ear and kicking my feet at times, I love the chemistry our two have!
My only “complaint” is how long I have to wait for the next book! If you love fantasy romance then this is a MUST READ for you, I promise you will not be disappointed!
This book had me hooked from the first page! The writing flows extremely well and the world building and descriptions of people are beautifully done. This was my first ARC book and boy it did not disappoint! As an AVID Game of Thrones fan I was happy to see the comparison of the two did not fall short!
Also as a woman in her 30s it was so refreshing to see a princess who was not a “child” and who could hold her own! Too many times in fantasy books the FMC is maybe 17 and still seems very childish which can sometimes be hard to fully allow myself to get immersed into the character, so having the ability to better connect with this FMC was a breath of fresh air! The romance had me grinning ear to ear and kicking my feet at times, I love the chemistry our two have!
My only “complaint” is how long I have to wait for the next book! If you love fantasy romance then this is a MUST READ for you, I promise you will not be disappointed!
September 3, 2024
If you’re a fan of A Song of Ice and Fire or TOG, you will love A Wildfire in the Grove! Independent, badass FMC, dragons & a swoon worthy MMC are what await you in this enthralling fantasy. I absolutely cannot wait for the sequel and quite frankly, I am excited for anything else Esmeray Sultan plans to write. Do yourself a favour and pick up this book as soon as it’s released!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as an ARC reader.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book as an ARC reader.
August 1, 2024
Aiya, the dragon princess, is forced to marry in order to continue the Velanyon line. In the beginning, we follow the introduction of her many suitors and the competitions they must participate in to gain the family’s favor. However, Aiya is left wishing to follow her hearts desire instead of her sworn duty as heir.
Overall, I found this book to just be okay. Draven, our MMC, was by far my favorite part of the book. His devotion to Aiya was what kept me wanting to read on. I also enjoyed all the side characters and how they fit into the story.
I would have liked to have seen more of the trials the suitors had to participate in and less hearing about the results through conversation. I also thought the pacing in the middle really lagged compared to the beginning and end of the book. I found that the “twists” were fairly predictable, but that could be because I read a lot of books similar to this. The biggest thing, however, that took away from my enjoyment was I felt that characters would just randomly appear out of nowhere in the middle of a scene or that we they were suddenly somewhere else. I had to reread a lot of scenes and I still had trouble following the story in some points.
I know I listed a lot of negatives, but the story was engaging enough for me to want to finish and I am curious to see where the second book goes. If you like romantasy, this will likely be for you. It does have older characters which was a big win for me personally.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Overall, I found this book to just be okay. Draven, our MMC, was by far my favorite part of the book. His devotion to Aiya was what kept me wanting to read on. I also enjoyed all the side characters and how they fit into the story.
I would have liked to have seen more of the trials the suitors had to participate in and less hearing about the results through conversation. I also thought the pacing in the middle really lagged compared to the beginning and end of the book. I found that the “twists” were fairly predictable, but that could be because I read a lot of books similar to this. The biggest thing, however, that took away from my enjoyment was I felt that characters would just randomly appear out of nowhere in the middle of a scene or that we they were suddenly somewhere else. I had to reread a lot of scenes and I still had trouble following the story in some points.
I know I listed a lot of negatives, but the story was engaging enough for me to want to finish and I am curious to see where the second book goes. If you like romantasy, this will likely be for you. It does have older characters which was a big win for me personally.
Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 16, 2024
First things First…
If you’re a fan of ACOTAR or Darkness of Ruination…if you love Azrial, Rhysand, Cassian, and Calix…then this book A Wildfire in the Grove is a MUST READ.
Let me start off by saying this is the first fantasy book I’ve read in a few months and when I say it had me hooked it had me legit hooked to it and I’m so glad I decided to get back into ARC’s with this as my very first one after 1 1/2 months of no ARC’s.
We get first introduced to Aiya who is the dragon princess and the last of the Velanyon line. As you go through the beginning of this book we are introduced to the many suitors that come far and wide to win over the Dragon Princess. We get to meet Florian, Casimir, and Draven and follow them through the competitions they have to go through.
But Draven is the one that wins Aiya’s heart and the Azrial/Rhys/Cassian/ Calix of this amazing book. The devotion that Draven has for Aiya throughout this whole entire book is something to be reckoned with. Towards the middle of the book we find out who Draven really is and watch Aiya get angry with him. Do I blame her for it? No because I would’ve been too but I totally get why Draven kept secrets like he did.
The twists and turns had me second guessing myself as I continued on with this book. I constantly thought I knew what was going to happen again and every single time I found myself wrong. Then you have the spice in this book and let me tell you this book has a lot of spice.
I’m so thankful the Esmeray gave me the chance to read and review her book and I’m so glad I did.
If you’re a fan of ACOTAR or Darkness of Ruination…if you love Azrial, Rhysand, Cassian, and Calix…then this book A Wildfire in the Grove is a MUST READ.
Let me start off by saying this is the first fantasy book I’ve read in a few months and when I say it had me hooked it had me legit hooked to it and I’m so glad I decided to get back into ARC’s with this as my very first one after 1 1/2 months of no ARC’s.
We get first introduced to Aiya who is the dragon princess and the last of the Velanyon line. As you go through the beginning of this book we are introduced to the many suitors that come far and wide to win over the Dragon Princess. We get to meet Florian, Casimir, and Draven and follow them through the competitions they have to go through.
But Draven is the one that wins Aiya’s heart and the Azrial/Rhys/Cassian/ Calix of this amazing book. The devotion that Draven has for Aiya throughout this whole entire book is something to be reckoned with. Towards the middle of the book we find out who Draven really is and watch Aiya get angry with him. Do I blame her for it? No because I would’ve been too but I totally get why Draven kept secrets like he did.
The twists and turns had me second guessing myself as I continued on with this book. I constantly thought I knew what was going to happen again and every single time I found myself wrong. Then you have the spice in this book and let me tell you this book has a lot of spice.
I’m so thankful the Esmeray gave me the chance to read and review her book and I’m so glad I did.
September 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“To everyone who craved justice for our first Dragon Queen.”
✨
Right from the beginning, I was HOOKED!
While world building isn’t everyone’s favorite…it is mine ! HA!
So this book really touched that point for me and was executed extremely well, not dragged on, and in a suitable pace. You’ll be thinking about it a lot even after reading!
Right away, the opening scene captivated me by the writing style. The way this author can describe combat scenes is stunning! I just loved how descriptive, it makes me feel like I can put myself right in the fight!
**Warning: You will stand up, and pose…you will get dirty looks from your fiancé, and a “should I even ask?”**
The characters are passionate, and this author writes in such a way that pulls your emotions. You really feel the good and bad complexities that just come along with life. Truly theres such a touching way this story was written!
The SPICE ! Oh gosh def re read over again because WOW. Incredible how realistic these scenes are !
“Gods above, Aiya, I love it when you do that for me. It’s so f*çking pretty,”
Like how could you not fall in love with that?
Strong and relatable FMC (who I’m in love with 😍 )
MMC you’ll just fall for ❤️🔥( gives ‘talks her through it’ energy 🫣)
Forbidden Love 😱
DRAGONS and Druids 🐉💜✨
Touch her and 💀
Spice 😮💨🥴
Twists!
Turns!
Betrayals !
I cannot wait for more!!
Thank you so much Esmeray Sultan so much for allowing me to read your amazing work! This review is my honest opinion 🥰
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“To everyone who craved justice for our first Dragon Queen.”
✨
Right from the beginning, I was HOOKED!
While world building isn’t everyone’s favorite…it is mine ! HA!
So this book really touched that point for me and was executed extremely well, not dragged on, and in a suitable pace. You’ll be thinking about it a lot even after reading!
Right away, the opening scene captivated me by the writing style. The way this author can describe combat scenes is stunning! I just loved how descriptive, it makes me feel like I can put myself right in the fight!
**Warning: You will stand up, and pose…you will get dirty looks from your fiancé, and a “should I even ask?”**
The characters are passionate, and this author writes in such a way that pulls your emotions. You really feel the good and bad complexities that just come along with life. Truly theres such a touching way this story was written!
The SPICE ! Oh gosh def re read over again because WOW. Incredible how realistic these scenes are !
“Gods above, Aiya, I love it when you do that for me. It’s so f*çking pretty,”
Like how could you not fall in love with that?
Strong and relatable FMC (who I’m in love with 😍 )
MMC you’ll just fall for ❤️🔥( gives ‘talks her through it’ energy 🫣)
Forbidden Love 😱
DRAGONS and Druids 🐉💜✨
Touch her and 💀
Spice 😮💨🥴
Twists!
Turns!
Betrayals !
I cannot wait for more!!
Thank you so much Esmeray Sultan so much for allowing me to read your amazing work! This review is my honest opinion 🥰
July 28, 2024
Read this as an ARC.
I really enjoyed this one. There were quite a few points where the story seemed to lag (more so towards the beginning), and then rush through other (more interesting) parts. I’m going to breakout things I enjoyed and disliked as best I can, while avoiding spoilers.
Overall, it was an interesting read combining a few different common themes. I liked some of the twists, and the character dynamics. I loved Aiya’s desire and draw to the dragons. I appreciated the detail in Draven’s home and how the history of the Druid magic was explained.
Giving a 3/5 because while it was entertaining, I did struggle to get through the first half of the book and was a little let down with the ending. But I feel like there were some really strong elements that made this a good storyline.
1. The beginning drags a bit. But worth pushing through! Around the 25-30% mark, I considered DNFing but around 40% I was glad I kept going.
2. The “bad guy” was very predictable. This didn’t feel like a surprise at all.
3. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Aiya and Draven. Although there were some points where Aiya was rather annoying.
4. The ending felt like a bit of a let down. Yes, I understand the need for a cliffhanger to carry into the next book, but it did feel like an insignificant ending considering the amount of things packed into the last 10% of the book.
5. I will read the next one, because I need to know what the heck the outcome is. But hopefully it’ll take a little less time to get into the action for the next one.
6. Once things started moving, I was really into this book. It just took a while to get to that point.
7. I wish certain points of the story had more detail and lasted longer, rather than other parts that seemed unreasonably long. I would’ve appreciated more about their last trip to Ashtara rather than so much extra detail about the potential suitors at the beginning, for example.
I really enjoyed this one. There were quite a few points where the story seemed to lag (more so towards the beginning), and then rush through other (more interesting) parts. I’m going to breakout things I enjoyed and disliked as best I can, while avoiding spoilers.
Overall, it was an interesting read combining a few different common themes. I liked some of the twists, and the character dynamics. I loved Aiya’s desire and draw to the dragons. I appreciated the detail in Draven’s home and how the history of the Druid magic was explained.
Giving a 3/5 because while it was entertaining, I did struggle to get through the first half of the book and was a little let down with the ending. But I feel like there were some really strong elements that made this a good storyline.
1. The beginning drags a bit. But worth pushing through! Around the 25-30% mark, I considered DNFing but around 40% I was glad I kept going.
2. The “bad guy” was very predictable. This didn’t feel like a surprise at all.
3. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Aiya and Draven. Although there were some points where Aiya was rather annoying.
4. The ending felt like a bit of a let down. Yes, I understand the need for a cliffhanger to carry into the next book, but it did feel like an insignificant ending considering the amount of things packed into the last 10% of the book.
5. I will read the next one, because I need to know what the heck the outcome is. But hopefully it’ll take a little less time to get into the action for the next one.
6. Once things started moving, I was really into this book. It just took a while to get to that point.
7. I wish certain points of the story had more detail and lasted longer, rather than other parts that seemed unreasonably long. I would’ve appreciated more about their last trip to Ashtara rather than so much extra detail about the potential suitors at the beginning, for example.
August 10, 2024
I received an ARC copy of A Wildfire in the Grove from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Aiya, the Dragon Princess is being forced to find a husband by her father. The first part of the book reminded me a little of The Bachelor- especially when Aiya didn’t get to pick her dance partners at the ball. I had no idea what to think of Casimir. He was very mysterious but that doesn’t automatically mean he’s a bad guy. Draven seemed super suspicious from the beginning- he was the most surprising character in my mind.
The world building overall is well done. It’s enough to give a foundation that my imagination can build on but not too much where it feels dragged out.
The story sometimes felt a little slow in the beginning. It’s a necessary evil so we can get more background about the people and history so I wouldn’t say I was bored but anxious for something big to happen. Once the king has decided who Aiya will marry there’s a lot of action and from there until the end which of course if left open for the story to continue.
I am a little sad we never met any dragons, but with this being book one and unhatched dragon eggs are around I think it’s only a matter of time before that happens.
Aiya, the Dragon Princess is being forced to find a husband by her father. The first part of the book reminded me a little of The Bachelor- especially when Aiya didn’t get to pick her dance partners at the ball. I had no idea what to think of Casimir. He was very mysterious but that doesn’t automatically mean he’s a bad guy. Draven seemed super suspicious from the beginning- he was the most surprising character in my mind.
The world building overall is well done. It’s enough to give a foundation that my imagination can build on but not too much where it feels dragged out.
The story sometimes felt a little slow in the beginning. It’s a necessary evil so we can get more background about the people and history so I wouldn’t say I was bored but anxious for something big to happen. Once the king has decided who Aiya will marry there’s a lot of action and from there until the end which of course if left open for the story to continue.
I am a little sad we never met any dragons, but with this being book one and unhatched dragon eggs are around I think it’s only a matter of time before that happens.
August 17, 2024
If you’re looking for a fantasy book with a forbidden romance this is a great book to choose. The novel revolves around the “Dragon Princess”, curious about her ancestors and the void she feels in her soul for her lost species. Beautifully written, starting off on the slower side to help build the world of Araxa, along her journey she is forced into an arranged marriage by her father the king, while going through marriage deliberations she falls in love with the one man her father would never choose to become her husband and future king.
Attempting to raise her species from the extinction, the princess faces adversity from the very people she grew up with, and thought she could trust. Learning that everything she was taught had been wrong and the truth was hidden to cover up the secrets of her ancestors.
This will be a phenomenal series and i cannot wait for the second book to be released. Give the book a read if you’re interested in the journey of a strong main female character taking back what is rightfully hers, falling into the purest of love along the way.
Attempting to raise her species from the extinction, the princess faces adversity from the very people she grew up with, and thought she could trust. Learning that everything she was taught had been wrong and the truth was hidden to cover up the secrets of her ancestors.
This will be a phenomenal series and i cannot wait for the second book to be released. Give the book a read if you’re interested in the journey of a strong main female character taking back what is rightfully hers, falling into the purest of love along the way.
September 4, 2024
As soon as I read the description for A Wildfire in the Grove, I knew I was going to like this one.
I really enjoyed all of the characters throughout. Aiya was such a great fmc. I loved that she was strong and fierce but also had emotions that weren't seen as a weakness. Was she perfect? No, she had her annoying moments but don't we all. As for Draven... I loved him. He was my favorite character throughout the book and the absolutely devotion he had to Aiya was everything to me. Both the fmc and mmc were well written, complex, and easy to relate to.
The pacing was a little off for me. While I understand that world building is a necessary evil in a fantasy novel, it always slows down the plot/pacing for me. I really struggled to get through the beginning half (which isn't unusual for me) but once it picked up about 45% of the way through, I was hooked.
All in all, I really enjoyed A Wildfire in the Grove and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Thank you to Esmeray Sultan and Sultan Publications for the arc!
I really enjoyed all of the characters throughout. Aiya was such a great fmc. I loved that she was strong and fierce but also had emotions that weren't seen as a weakness. Was she perfect? No, she had her annoying moments but don't we all. As for Draven... I loved him. He was my favorite character throughout the book and the absolutely devotion he had to Aiya was everything to me. Both the fmc and mmc were well written, complex, and easy to relate to.
The pacing was a little off for me. While I understand that world building is a necessary evil in a fantasy novel, it always slows down the plot/pacing for me. I really struggled to get through the beginning half (which isn't unusual for me) but once it picked up about 45% of the way through, I was hooked.
All in all, I really enjoyed A Wildfire in the Grove and I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Thank you to Esmeray Sultan and Sultan Publications for the arc!
September 4, 2024
4.75 🌟 ‘s
Received an ARC from the author for an honest review in return.
Starting this review off with…. I REALLY REALLY LOVE THAT THESE CHARACTERS ARE OLDER!!!!!! So many times the main characters are high school age or under 21 and it was so nice to read a fantastic book with a 26 year old FMC.
Now, the world building I felt was done very well! It didn’t feel slow, but descriptive enough where I had a picture in my head and followed the story wonderfully and easily. I loved the characters and THE TWISTS!!!! Some of things that happened I didn’t see coming and I LOVE IT when that happens in a fantasy!
I stayed up till 3 am one night because I couldn’t put it down, I was too excited to see what happened. I was never bored. My husband was laughing at me as I was finishing the book because I couldn’t sit still, and the looks on my face apparently showed intensity and worry 😂.
This was so so so much fun!
This was SO close to being a five star read. I absolutely LOVED this and am ecstatic to continue the series! The ONLY reason it wasn’t a 5 star for me was simply because the spice scenes were too descriptive for my liking. That is strictly a preference thing! It just took me out of the book a bit. I ended up skimming those scenes when they came up.
I still highly recommend!
Received an ARC from the author for an honest review in return.
Starting this review off with…. I REALLY REALLY LOVE THAT THESE CHARACTERS ARE OLDER!!!!!! So many times the main characters are high school age or under 21 and it was so nice to read a fantastic book with a 26 year old FMC.
Now, the world building I felt was done very well! It didn’t feel slow, but descriptive enough where I had a picture in my head and followed the story wonderfully and easily. I loved the characters and THE TWISTS!!!! Some of things that happened I didn’t see coming and I LOVE IT when that happens in a fantasy!
I stayed up till 3 am one night because I couldn’t put it down, I was too excited to see what happened. I was never bored. My husband was laughing at me as I was finishing the book because I couldn’t sit still, and the looks on my face apparently showed intensity and worry 😂.
This was so so so much fun!
This was SO close to being a five star read. I absolutely LOVED this and am ecstatic to continue the series! The ONLY reason it wasn’t a 5 star for me was simply because the spice scenes were too descriptive for my liking. That is strictly a preference thing! It just took me out of the book a bit. I ended up skimming those scenes when they came up.
I still highly recommend!
February 3, 2025
Received this as an ARC and was impressed, to say the least. It's a little bit of the Selection Series and Fear the Fear the Flames mixed together with a lot more spice and a bit more violence.
Aiya is the only heir to the throne , the dragon princess. At the age of 26, she is past due to marry. Her father invites all the nobelman across the continent to compete for her hand. However, when she is betrayed, she finds an ally in Draven, a ranger and noble.
I'm a sucker a dragon story, and this one delivers. Plenty of action and spice (3.5 / 5 in my opinion). The FMC and MMC are well developed as well as most of the side characters. And well, when Draven says " Good girl.." 🔥
I would maybe like a little more backstory with Bowen. I feel there is a reason he hates Aiya more than Draven's other friends. Perhaps that will be covered in the next book?
I really enjoyed the tournament part of the book and would have liked more of it.
Either way, I'll be reading the one in the series.
Aiya is the only heir to the throne , the dragon princess. At the age of 26, she is past due to marry. Her father invites all the nobelman across the continent to compete for her hand. However, when she is betrayed, she finds an ally in Draven, a ranger and noble.
I'm a sucker a dragon story, and this one delivers. Plenty of action and spice (3.5 / 5 in my opinion). The FMC and MMC are well developed as well as most of the side characters. And well, when Draven says " Good girl.." 🔥
I would maybe like a little more backstory with Bowen. I feel there is a reason he hates Aiya more than Draven's other friends. Perhaps that will be covered in the next book?
I really enjoyed the tournament part of the book and would have liked more of it.
Either way, I'll be reading the one in the series.
September 6, 2024
*** spoiler free review ***
Can I just say wow?!
This was a fantastic end of the summer read! And so well written!!
If you like:
Strong FMC
Obsessed MMC
Forbidden Love
DRAGONS
Touch her and ☠️
Kind of enemies to lovers
A hint of 🌶️
Then this is the book for you!
Our story follows dragon princess Aiya, our strong headed FMC, who is being forced to marry in order to produce an heir and continue her bloodline. She is exactly the kind of bad ass, take no shit female you’d want from an FMC. A scandal shortly follows her surprise betrothal and Aiya and our mysterious MMC Draven find themselves on the run. Draven is so secretive but would also give the world to Aiya and it makes my heart SING. In some aspects I felt like I was falling in love with Rhysand and Feyre all over again. 🥹
I won’t say much else but please, please, PLEASE give this book a go! It leaves you wanting more and more with each turn of the page! I definitely had a HARD time putting my phone down while reading, but unfortunately bills needed to be paid 😅
Can I just say wow?!
This was a fantastic end of the summer read! And so well written!!
If you like:
Strong FMC
Obsessed MMC
Forbidden Love
DRAGONS
Touch her and ☠️
Kind of enemies to lovers
A hint of 🌶️
Then this is the book for you!
Our story follows dragon princess Aiya, our strong headed FMC, who is being forced to marry in order to produce an heir and continue her bloodline. She is exactly the kind of bad ass, take no shit female you’d want from an FMC. A scandal shortly follows her surprise betrothal and Aiya and our mysterious MMC Draven find themselves on the run. Draven is so secretive but would also give the world to Aiya and it makes my heart SING. In some aspects I felt like I was falling in love with Rhysand and Feyre all over again. 🥹
I won’t say much else but please, please, PLEASE give this book a go! It leaves you wanting more and more with each turn of the page! I definitely had a HARD time putting my phone down while reading, but unfortunately bills needed to be paid 😅
August 15, 2024
I really had no idea what to expect from this book. I took a chance and signed up to receive an ARC by an author I had never read before. I was not disappointed! I loved it. Writing a strong female lead character can be tough. And a lot of authors miss the mark. Often overdoing it to the point the character can become insufferable. This was not the case here. I thought the FMC was very well balanced. She was strong, feisty and independent. But she was also playful and caring, with emotions and weaknesses. I also loved she was an actual ADULT and not 17/18. I thought some of the pacing in the first half could have been sped up a bit but even with that said, it didn’t feel slow or like it dragged on and I found I really didn’t want it to end. I really enjoyed the world building and getting to see the relationship develop between the main characters. And once the SHTF things kicked off. I finished this book several days before writing this review and I still can’t get it out of my head. I can’t wait for book 2. Hopefully the wait won’t be too long!
September 7, 2024
I haven't read a fantasy book in a long time but I have to say this one was pretty good and kept me on my toes until the end...and now I have to wait for book 2!!! At first when I saw there was a map I wasn't too sure about this read. I am not good at checking back at the maps and I tend to get lost while reading, but not in this case.
The main character, Aiya, took charge and in my opinion a strong female in a world that might not have been in her favor. Forced to marry another just to produce and heir for the kingdom, Aiya has other plans as she builds a relationship with Draven, someone with a past.
This book surprised me because when I began reading it just wasn't hitting the spot. I am grateful I kept reading as the story line grabs you and doesn't let you go. For being Esmeray's first book of The Druid and the Dragon Queen series, she really outdid herself and can't wait to see what she does next.
The main character, Aiya, took charge and in my opinion a strong female in a world that might not have been in her favor. Forced to marry another just to produce and heir for the kingdom, Aiya has other plans as she builds a relationship with Draven, someone with a past.
This book surprised me because when I began reading it just wasn't hitting the spot. I am grateful I kept reading as the story line grabs you and doesn't let you go. For being Esmeray's first book of The Druid and the Dragon Queen series, she really outdid herself and can't wait to see what she does next.
September 6, 2024
This was my first book by this author, and I have to say, it’s absolutely amazing! From start to finish, this book had me kicking my feet, smiling, gasping, yelling, and squealing. The protagonist, Aiya, is someone I can deeply relate to—especially refreshing as she’s not a teenager but a strong, determined character who truly stands her ground. It’s been a while since I’ve encountered a female main character of her age in a book, and I’m thrilled to see her evolve throughout the series.
As for the male lead, let’s just say he’s chef's kiss! The author excels in world-building, creating a richly detailed setting that draws you in, and the pacing between scenes is nothing short of perfect. I’m genuinely sad that I’ll have to wait for the sequel, but I’m eagerly anticipating how this captivating story will continue.
As for the male lead, let’s just say he’s chef's kiss! The author excels in world-building, creating a richly detailed setting that draws you in, and the pacing between scenes is nothing short of perfect. I’m genuinely sad that I’ll have to wait for the sequel, but I’m eagerly anticipating how this captivating story will continue.
August 3, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
A dragon princess, fierce and breathtaking. A swoon worthy man, coming to bid for her hand. But with enemies lurking in the shadows, and maybe even in plain sight, Aiya is forced to use all her wit to save the people she holds dear. With Draven by her side, she can do just about anything. Saving her people, her friends, and her dragons. But everything isn’t as it seems.
This story took me a while to get into, but I quickly found myself drawn to its characters and their dynamics. I loved Aiya. She’s such a strong and relatable character. The twists about Draven’s backstory were just perfect, and added so much more depth to his character. The dynamic between Aiya and Draven was sexy and sweet at the same time. It’s a unique story that definitely caught my attention. I’m hoping to see the magic become stronger as the story progresses next, and see more of the dragons. Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
A dragon princess, fierce and breathtaking. A swoon worthy man, coming to bid for her hand. But with enemies lurking in the shadows, and maybe even in plain sight, Aiya is forced to use all her wit to save the people she holds dear. With Draven by her side, she can do just about anything. Saving her people, her friends, and her dragons. But everything isn’t as it seems.
This story took me a while to get into, but I quickly found myself drawn to its characters and their dynamics. I loved Aiya. She’s such a strong and relatable character. The twists about Draven’s backstory were just perfect, and added so much more depth to his character. The dynamic between Aiya and Draven was sexy and sweet at the same time. It’s a unique story that definitely caught my attention. I’m hoping to see the magic become stronger as the story progresses next, and see more of the dragons. Can’t wait for the next book in this series.
September 3, 2024
WHAT A DEBUT!!!
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for A Wildfire in the Grove and it did not disappoint!
👑 Dragon Princess (26, foul mouthed, relatable and not a born assassin)
⚔️ Betrayal
👑 Bridgerton style festivities
⚔️ Magic
👑 Touch her and 💀
I really loved the way grief was portrayed in this book. I felt like Aiya’s feelings were my own and found myself tearing up much more than I anticipated. I can not wait for this beautiful story to continue!
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for A Wildfire in the Grove and it did not disappoint!
👑 Dragon Princess (26, foul mouthed, relatable and not a born assassin)
⚔️ Betrayal
👑 Bridgerton style festivities
⚔️ Magic
👑 Touch her and 💀
I really loved the way grief was portrayed in this book. I felt like Aiya’s feelings were my own and found myself tearing up much more than I anticipated. I can not wait for this beautiful story to continue!
September 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book had me in an absolute chokehold from the prologue to the very end. This book was easily one of the best & most enjoyable books i’ve read this year! Betrayal, friendships, forbidden love, smut, dragons, secrets / lies, i repeat, DRAGONS & so much more all evenly balanced & well written. The main characters are loveable & so detailed in the way they were written, along with the storyline! This book was amazing to read, so detailed & adventurous! We were left on quite an amazing cliffhanger & I truly cannot wait to see what book 2 in this series will hold for us!
This book had me in an absolute chokehold from the prologue to the very end. This book was easily one of the best & most enjoyable books i’ve read this year! Betrayal, friendships, forbidden love, smut, dragons, secrets / lies, i repeat, DRAGONS & so much more all evenly balanced & well written. The main characters are loveable & so detailed in the way they were written, along with the storyline! This book was amazing to read, so detailed & adventurous! We were left on quite an amazing cliffhanger & I truly cannot wait to see what book 2 in this series will hold for us!
September 9, 2024
4.5/5 stars Spice level 🌶️🌶️
I really loved this book and the story line! It's a must read for sure and I can't wait for the next book!
My only issue with the book is it seemed to get off to a slow start. But by the middle the action really began and there were some twists and turns you wouldn't expect!
I really loved this book and the story line! It's a must read for sure and I can't wait for the next book!
My only issue with the book is it seemed to get off to a slow start. But by the middle the action really began and there were some twists and turns you wouldn't expect!
August 4, 2024
Dragons? Druid’s? Magic? And another language to learn curse words in? YES to all :)
I’ll be honest, in the first few pages I wasn’t sure if I was going to keep reading. It was like, oh no another Princess who wants to do her own thing and not get married…but Aiya’s desire for dragons and her romantic (and SPICY) interactions with Draven…definitely kept the pages turning. Til I was done with the book BUT craving for more!
I definitely like how we get to see these different races of people and creatures of myth that are truly real, come alive and give hope to more magical stories.
Very grateful for this ARC and can’t wait til the next one!
I’ll be honest, in the first few pages I wasn’t sure if I was going to keep reading. It was like, oh no another Princess who wants to do her own thing and not get married…but Aiya’s desire for dragons and her romantic (and SPICY) interactions with Draven…definitely kept the pages turning. Til I was done with the book BUT craving for more!
I definitely like how we get to see these different races of people and creatures of myth that are truly real, come alive and give hope to more magical stories.
Very grateful for this ARC and can’t wait til the next one!
August 4, 2024
First of all, an FMC who’s 26? Yes please!!! I like for once reading a character who’s actually older than me (I’m 24). That’s not to say I don’t also enjoy reading characters who are 18-23. It was just refreshing!
I’ve been in a romantasy kick lately and this soothed all my needs. A badass FMC, a MMC you can’t help but love, dragons, what else do you need????
I am dying for the next book.
another positive not related to the plot (which, phenomenal, really enjoyed the plot twists because what book isn’t complete without a plot twist), having a glossary of pronunciation saved me soooo much heartbreak!
I’ve been in a romantasy kick lately and this soothed all my needs. A badass FMC, a MMC you can’t help but love, dragons, what else do you need????
I am dying for the next book.
another positive not related to the plot (which, phenomenal, really enjoyed the plot twists because what book isn’t complete without a plot twist), having a glossary of pronunciation saved me soooo much heartbreak!
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