4.5
Oh, A Book of Royals and Deities, where do I even start? This book is like strapping into a dragon saddle with zero training and hanging on for dear life—not because the ride is smooth, but because you have to see where the chaos lands.
First off, let’s talk about Story Dehana, our protagonist with a name as dramatic as her life. She’s a dragon rider with a broken heart, a fiery attitude, and more baggage than an airport carousel. Honestly, if surviving deadly magic and discovering your soulmate is your thing, Story’s got you covered. Her resilience is admirable, sure, but girl needs a vacation and a therapist.
Now, King Ziven. He’s the enemy-turned-lover we’ve seen before, but credit where it’s due—he does save her life a lot. That said, the whole “tethered forever” bit feels less like romance and more like a magical HR nightmare. Do they love each other? Do they hate each other? Do I care? (Answer: a little, but not enough to write their names in glitter on my notebook.)
The dragons, however, are the moment. They bring the fire, the wings, and the metaphorical hope that outshines most of the messy romance. Honestly, I’d rather hang out with these creatures than wade through some of the melodrama between Story and Ziven.
The plot twists? Chef’s kiss. Just when you think you’ve uncovered the last betrayal, another one smacks you across the face like an untrained dragon tail. It’s chaotic, it’s messy, and it’s occasionally brilliant—but it’s also exhausting.
This book is a wild blend of all the fantasy romance tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found family, a broody mate who can’t take a hint, and a heroine who keeps fighting because, well, she has no choice. It’s indulgent, dramatic, and unapologetically over the top.
So, should you read it? If you’re here for dragons, tension-filled romance, and a protagonist who somehow survives everything thrown her way, then absolutely. Just prepare to roll your eyes at least a dozen times and maybe scream into a pillow once or twice.
Rating: 4.5/5 dragons. Could it be less dramatic? Yes. Would I still read the next book? Also yes.