What do you think?
Rate this book
Rise of the Empress #3
Ignite
If you're only ever going to see yourself as a person who made a massive mistake, you'll never become anything beyond that.
Since escaping royal life, Imperial Princess Redrinna has avoided anything that would force her back into the role of a princess. However, in order to continue protecting the friends she holds dear, she'll have to choose between staying hidden or facing her greatest fear head-on.
Redrinna and her friends go on the hunt for another dragon but quickly discover it's missing. While searching for clues, they discover three of the Dragon Gem's chosen—River, Thala, and Leonora—and the decrepit city of Póli, a place ruled by corrupt officials once responsible for conscripting children for war. While Redrinna refuses to be something she's not—a princess—she also can't turn her back on the people. However, if she's discovered by the officials, the fate that awaits her is worse than death: she'll fall into Osiris's hands for good.
In order to save them and herself, Redrinna will have to find a courage and strength she's never had or she'll lose it all.
Since escaping royal life, Imperial Princess Redrinna has avoided anything that would force her back into the role of a princess. However, in order to continue protecting the friends she holds dear, she'll have to choose between staying hidden or facing her greatest fear head-on.
Redrinna and her friends go on the hunt for another dragon but quickly discover it's missing. While searching for clues, they discover three of the Dragon Gem's chosen—River, Thala, and Leonora—and the decrepit city of Póli, a place ruled by corrupt officials once responsible for conscripting children for war. While Redrinna refuses to be something she's not—a princess—she also can't turn her back on the people. However, if she's discovered by the officials, the fate that awaits her is worse than death: she'll fall into Osiris's hands for good.
In order to save them and herself, Redrinna will have to find a courage and strength she's never had or she'll lose it all.
ebook
Published October 15, 2024
5 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Doraga
5 books12 followersC. S. Doraga grew up in the shadows of the Rocky Mountains with her nose stuck in any book within reach and imagination constantly running wild (to her parents' chagrin, at times). Her favorite author is the amazing mangaka, Hiromu Arakawa, the author of works such as Fullmetal Alchemist and Silver Spoon. What little free time she has, she spends playing the Fire Emblem video game series and a few, choice others. She has a deep love for the fantastic but also loves mystery and those characters that sit with you long after the story is over.
She has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Weber State University and lives in beautiful Northern Utah with her family and two, crazy cats.
She has a bachelor’s degree in creative writing from Weber State University and lives in beautiful Northern Utah with her family and two, crazy cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story carries a lighter undertone compared to some darker fantasy novels, yet it still explores themes of depression and self-doubt as the characters question whether they are truly worthy of joining the Dragon Kin. Throughout the narrative, we are introduced to several new characters, some of whom are potential candidates to become part of the Dragon Kin themselves. However, the city is not as safe as it seems—a spy is working for Osiris, adding an element of intrigue and danger to the plot.
A significant part of the story revolves around the search for a missing dragon. The characters are left wondering: is the dragon hiding, or has it been captured? This mystery adds tension and keeps the reader engaged.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is how the characters wrestle with their insecurities and doubts about their abilities. While this internal struggle adds depth and relatability, it can sometimes feel overwhelming when nearly every character is plagued by the same feelings. Despite this, the book delivers plenty of action and adventure. As Osiris says, "play the game"—and the story certainly feels like a high-stakes game where strategy and courage matter.
The situation in the city becomes increasingly chaotic, especially with the boyar seizing control. He is a ruthless character, and together with other nobles, he not only terrorizes the citizens but also holds a sort of ransom over the Imperial army. This political intrigue adds another layer of complexity to the story.
What I truly enjoy about this book is the rich tapestry of stories and the variety of beings that inhabit this fantasy world. As a fan of dragons, their presence alone makes the story captivating for me. The narrative raises several compelling questions: Can Redrinna fulfil the expectations placed upon her? Will the characters be able to overcome their perceived failures? And will Osiris finally gain control over Redrinna?
Overall, this book offers a blend of adventure, intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for any fantasy enthusiast.
This story carries a lighter undertone compared to some darker fantasy novels, yet it still explores themes of depression and self-doubt as the characters question whether they are truly worthy of joining the Dragon Kin. Throughout the narrative, we are introduced to several new characters, some of whom are potential candidates to become part of the Dragon Kin themselves. However, the city is not as safe as it seems—a spy is working for Osiris, adding an element of intrigue and danger to the plot.
A significant part of the story revolves around the search for a missing dragon. The characters are left wondering: is the dragon hiding, or has it been captured? This mystery adds tension and keeps the reader engaged.
One aspect I particularly appreciate is how the characters wrestle with their insecurities and doubts about their abilities. While this internal struggle adds depth and relatability, it can sometimes feel overwhelming when nearly every character is plagued by the same feelings. Despite this, the book delivers plenty of action and adventure. As Osiris says, "play the game"—and the story certainly feels like a high-stakes game where strategy and courage matter.
The situation in the city becomes increasingly chaotic, especially with the boyar seizing control. He is a ruthless character, and together with other nobles, he not only terrorizes the citizens but also holds a sort of ransom over the Imperial army. This political intrigue adds another layer of complexity to the story.
What I truly enjoy about this book is the rich tapestry of stories and the variety of beings that inhabit this fantasy world. As a fan of dragons, their presence alone makes the story captivating for me. The narrative raises several compelling questions: Can Redrinna fulfil the expectations placed upon her? Will the characters be able to overcome their perceived failures? And will Osiris finally gain control over Redrinna?
Overall, this book offers a blend of adventure, intrigue, and emotional depth, making it a compelling read for any fantasy enthusiast.
August 22, 2024
This was such an interesting addition to the Rise of the Empress series! I loved watching the characters grow, and I especially loved the new characters that were introduced! It was an interesting balance of calm and intensity, with some characters having to wait for the other characters to do their part. I loved the premise of the book, and the ending gives me chills no matter how many times I read it. Seeing how each character contributed to the ending awe-inspiring. It was interesting to have a character with a disability of a sort, but I think it was well done. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
October 23, 2024
Great story.Princess Redrinna will collect friends as she searches for the other dragon. All they will find is the dragon gem's chosen, River, Thala, and Leonora. Princess Redrinna will continue to avoid responsibility until she comes upon the decrepit city Poli and will have to make a choice, save the people or stay hidden. This book has drama, danger, and a ending that will shock you. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2024
3.5 and I received this ARC from Booksirens and am happy to leave this review.
Continuing to explore what it means to be a family and trust issues the band is slowy growing. Not everyone is happy with their new talents and even less so with growing responsibility. There was a lot of explaining and more world building in this third book. I also found it had enough action to keep my attention. The farther in you get with this series the more sense it all makes.
Continuing to explore what it means to be a family and trust issues the band is slowy growing. Not everyone is happy with their new talents and even less so with growing responsibility. There was a lot of explaining and more world building in this third book. I also found it had enough action to keep my attention. The farther in you get with this series the more sense it all makes.
September 14, 2024
I've loved the character growth and being able to watch them learn their strengths. I really hope there are more books because I need to know how this whole story ends
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews