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Dragonis Academy #1
Trial of the Cursed Eggs
**Updated 4/10/2025**
Our traditions are old, but my wrath is fresh.
Dragonis Academy makes rulers or weapons, and I don’t need a crown to prove myself.
My plan is to enter the academy, march into Shadowcarve, and sharpen into the blade my father always wanted.
I’m a Shadowblade, the hidden knife in the night—unseen by you, unexpected by them, honed for a marriage I never wanted.
Dad took the girl I was, but the woman I am is untouchable.
A fated mate will break my chains, and Dragonis Academy? They’re about to learn what real terror is.
I’m not bending the knee unless I’m kicking the old ways in the teeth.
Trial of the Cursed Eggs - Year One Guardian of the Cursed Egg - Year Two Klauth - History of the Red Cursed Egg Progeny of the Cursed Egg - Year Three Thauglor - History of the Black Cursed EggQueen of the Cursed Egg - Year Four
Our traditions are old, but my wrath is fresh.
Dragonis Academy makes rulers or weapons, and I don’t need a crown to prove myself.
My plan is to enter the academy, march into Shadowcarve, and sharpen into the blade my father always wanted.
I’m a Shadowblade, the hidden knife in the night—unseen by you, unexpected by them, honed for a marriage I never wanted.
Dad took the girl I was, but the woman I am is untouchable.
A fated mate will break my chains, and Dragonis Academy? They’re about to learn what real terror is.
I’m not bending the knee unless I’m kicking the old ways in the teeth.
Trial of the Cursed Eggs - Year One Guardian of the Cursed Egg - Year Two Klauth - History of the Red Cursed Egg Progeny of the Cursed Egg - Year Three Thauglor - History of the Black Cursed EggQueen of the Cursed Egg - Year Four
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2025
1974 people are currently reading
839 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
April 11, 2025
First, a big thank you to the author for trusting me with her book! While this one ended up not being for me, I am so thankful for being given the opportunity to read it! I always feel bad giving an ARC review a low rating... but I believe in always giving my honest opinion on what I read.
The story itself has SO MUCH potential, the premise of the book is amazing and had a lot of things that are right up my alley which made me so excited for this one. I loved the dragons and the cursed eggs and I also thought the other different races were really cool and loved how diverse they were.
Honestly, the book started out relatively strong for me other than some small hiccups I could have overlooked, but about halfway(?) through I really started to struggle.
Mina... I loved her character in some ways because the character type is unique. I loved the badass assassin type vibes and the blend of her two different types of dragon parents. What her father puts her through is also brutal, but I think some of her badass vibes get lost in the "best of the best" character arc. Like there is seriously nothing she can't do, and even when she does get injured it's kind of glossed over. There isn't necessarily anything wrong with the "best of the best" character arc, but I wish there had been way more time spent working through the trauma from her father than we get. This could have been used to make her feel more relatable but it felt glossed over and we are "told" how horrible her life was before the academy, but we're not "shown".
I wanted more background on the world and I thought there were many opportunities for the author to explain the world, but it just never comes, and what we do get is surface level.
There are a lot of characters introduced rather quickly without a lot of introduction to any of them. I lost track of who was who a few times, especially with the two names that were similar (Leander and Lysander).
There were moments where scenes overlapped but from two different POVs. This made these sections of the book feel repetitive. There were also several phrases / scenes that were repeated which distracted me because I was like, "Didn't we already have this?" There were actual parts in the second half of the book that I had to flip backwards on because they didn't seem to make sense because of time skips / scene overlap / weird transitions. It was a bit jarring because I'm reading and like "OK so this character now knows xyz..." then less than ten pages later "Wait, didn't he already know that because he was there when Mina xyz..." It might be this will be cleaned up in editing or was caused by editing, I don't know.
At some point there are just too many different things happening, and none of them seem fully fleshed out. We're given bits and pieces of all these different things and not enough information for any one particular thing.
Seriously, check out the reviews on this one and give it a go yourself if you think you'd enjoy it. I can see why others might love this book, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
The story itself has SO MUCH potential, the premise of the book is amazing and had a lot of things that are right up my alley which made me so excited for this one. I loved the dragons and the cursed eggs and I also thought the other different races were really cool and loved how diverse they were.
Honestly, the book started out relatively strong for me other than some small hiccups I could have overlooked, but about halfway(?) through I really started to struggle.
Mina... I loved her character in some ways because the character type is unique. I loved the badass assassin type vibes and the blend of her two different types of dragon parents. What her father puts her through is also brutal, but I think some of her badass vibes get lost in the "best of the best" character arc. Like there is seriously nothing she can't do, and even when she does get injured it's kind of glossed over. There isn't necessarily anything wrong with the "best of the best" character arc, but I wish there had been way more time spent working through the trauma from her father than we get. This could have been used to make her feel more relatable but it felt glossed over and we are "told" how horrible her life was before the academy, but we're not "shown".
I wanted more background on the world and I thought there were many opportunities for the author to explain the world, but it just never comes, and what we do get is surface level.
There are a lot of characters introduced rather quickly without a lot of introduction to any of them. I lost track of who was who a few times, especially with the two names that were similar (Leander and Lysander).
There were moments where scenes overlapped but from two different POVs. This made these sections of the book feel repetitive. There were also several phrases / scenes that were repeated which distracted me because I was like, "Didn't we already have this?" There were actual parts in the second half of the book that I had to flip backwards on because they didn't seem to make sense because of time skips / scene overlap / weird transitions. It was a bit jarring because I'm reading and like "OK so this character now knows xyz..." then less than ten pages later "Wait, didn't he already know that because he was there when Mina xyz..." It might be this will be cleaned up in editing or was caused by editing, I don't know.
At some point there are just too many different things happening, and none of them seem fully fleshed out. We're given bits and pieces of all these different things and not enough information for any one particular thing.
Seriously, check out the reviews on this one and give it a go yourself if you think you'd enjoy it. I can see why others might love this book, it just wasn't my cup of tea.
June 17, 2025
basically unreadable
I tried. I tried so hard to read this, to give it a chance, to remember that it’s just dumb fun.
But literally the author wasted the entire premise.
The main character is set up to be a badass super confident super assassin, but at no point do we see evidence of this. We are simply TOLD she is amazing even with all the evidence to the contrary. She runs a “gauntlet” but there’s very little to explain what it is or what challenges she overcomes as almost invariably it is described by one of the guys from outside whatever the gauntlet is. And yet, the “bully” female character manages to trip her in a classroom hallway? She has a full screaming crying mental breakdown because she kills an assassin sent after her and needs a guy to sleep in her bed despite thinking the guy already has a mate because she’s so thoroughly traumatized?
And speaking of the guys, I hope you don’t like personality, because these guys have not one to split between them. Their only trait is that they adore the MC because she is so “badass” and are different flavors of shifters. She doesn’t even rely on tropes to give them discernible personalities.
The world building makes absolutely no sense and fails to even rely on tropes to prop it up, instead making itself a confusing mishmash of ideas and worlds. The school is huge and also required but also the death rate is like 30% but ALSO ALSO none of the other students are prepared for the trials and our MC was the only one prepared and that’s what makes her the super special?
I’m sorry, if you put 20 YEARS OF EFFORT into a child and you know at the end of that 20 years your child will attend a school that has such a high death rate, you’re gonna put some damn effort into making sure your child survives, particularly since all the female dragons are basically assigned the major of “stay-at-home mom.” What the fuck do they study if not “how to raise my child so they don’t fucking die?”
Also what kind of stupid future stay-at-home mom is going to try to bully a literal raised assassin? I don’t care HOW hot the guy is, that level of stupidity is bafflingly hilarious and not at all tension building.
On top of all of this, the main character is INSUFFERABLE. First, she’s introduced as a super badass Mary Sue, breaking records with ease and becoming the first female in the “war path” major—whatever that means, since again, the world building makes absolutely no sense—and yet she can get tripped by a stay-at-home mom in the hallway so that one of the robot men can catch her, she freaks out and screams and cries ALL NIGHT after killing a guy (and then is just like fine I guess?), and then!
Okay, so apparently it’s a thing in dragon culture to get betrothed at birth and have that betrothal revealed after you fully shift for the first time at 21. ON THE DAY OF HER 21st, her guy reveals himself, and she, I shit you not, runs out crying about being “betrayed” because he didn’t tell her before this.
And then spends weeks crying herself to sleep because she’s so betrayed and losing weight and generally being a wreck.
And when he tries desperately to apologize, her reasoning? “You didn’t try to keep it a secret because I’m a green dragon?”
Um… ???? Where did this insecurity come from??? Out of nowhere she’s suddenly ashamed of her heritage? What happened to the badass super weapon? And she never even asked, just assumed and gave him the cold shoulder for I think a month (it doesn’t exactly make it clear how much time has passed, but enough for her leathers to be loose on her frame, which points to the author having clearly never worn leather in their life if they think you can lose that much weight that quickly).
There are little things, too. “Putting together” a bow instead of stringing one is one that irritates me personally. The conversations are stilted. The characters are husks of words. The relationships are so toxic I might become a super hero from exposure by reading it. Honestly I kind of worry for the author. Like, you good, girl? You can’t honestly think this is somehow good, right?
Whatever. I was in for a fun stupid time, but this ain’t even fun. The MC is just too fucking annoying and there’s nothing else of substance to hold it together.
How the fuck this got 4.5 stars I will never understand.
I tried. I tried so hard to read this, to give it a chance, to remember that it’s just dumb fun.
But literally the author wasted the entire premise.
The main character is set up to be a badass super confident super assassin, but at no point do we see evidence of this. We are simply TOLD she is amazing even with all the evidence to the contrary. She runs a “gauntlet” but there’s very little to explain what it is or what challenges she overcomes as almost invariably it is described by one of the guys from outside whatever the gauntlet is. And yet, the “bully” female character manages to trip her in a classroom hallway? She has a full screaming crying mental breakdown because she kills an assassin sent after her and needs a guy to sleep in her bed despite thinking the guy already has a mate because she’s so thoroughly traumatized?
And speaking of the guys, I hope you don’t like personality, because these guys have not one to split between them. Their only trait is that they adore the MC because she is so “badass” and are different flavors of shifters. She doesn’t even rely on tropes to give them discernible personalities.
The world building makes absolutely no sense and fails to even rely on tropes to prop it up, instead making itself a confusing mishmash of ideas and worlds. The school is huge and also required but also the death rate is like 30% but ALSO ALSO none of the other students are prepared for the trials and our MC was the only one prepared and that’s what makes her the super special?
I’m sorry, if you put 20 YEARS OF EFFORT into a child and you know at the end of that 20 years your child will attend a school that has such a high death rate, you’re gonna put some damn effort into making sure your child survives, particularly since all the female dragons are basically assigned the major of “stay-at-home mom.” What the fuck do they study if not “how to raise my child so they don’t fucking die?”
Also what kind of stupid future stay-at-home mom is going to try to bully a literal raised assassin? I don’t care HOW hot the guy is, that level of stupidity is bafflingly hilarious and not at all tension building.
On top of all of this, the main character is INSUFFERABLE. First, she’s introduced as a super badass Mary Sue, breaking records with ease and becoming the first female in the “war path” major—whatever that means, since again, the world building makes absolutely no sense—and yet she can get tripped by a stay-at-home mom in the hallway so that one of the robot men can catch her, she freaks out and screams and cries ALL NIGHT after killing a guy (and then is just like fine I guess?), and then!
Okay, so apparently it’s a thing in dragon culture to get betrothed at birth and have that betrothal revealed after you fully shift for the first time at 21. ON THE DAY OF HER 21st, her guy reveals himself, and she, I shit you not, runs out crying about being “betrayed” because he didn’t tell her before this.
And then spends weeks crying herself to sleep because she’s so betrayed and losing weight and generally being a wreck.
And when he tries desperately to apologize, her reasoning? “You didn’t try to keep it a secret because I’m a green dragon?”
Um… ???? Where did this insecurity come from??? Out of nowhere she’s suddenly ashamed of her heritage? What happened to the badass super weapon? And she never even asked, just assumed and gave him the cold shoulder for I think a month (it doesn’t exactly make it clear how much time has passed, but enough for her leathers to be loose on her frame, which points to the author having clearly never worn leather in their life if they think you can lose that much weight that quickly).
There are little things, too. “Putting together” a bow instead of stringing one is one that irritates me personally. The conversations are stilted. The characters are husks of words. The relationships are so toxic I might become a super hero from exposure by reading it. Honestly I kind of worry for the author. Like, you good, girl? You can’t honestly think this is somehow good, right?
Whatever. I was in for a fun stupid time, but this ain’t even fun. The MC is just too fucking annoying and there’s nothing else of substance to hold it together.
How the fuck this got 4.5 stars I will never understand.
April 5, 2025
ARC Review:
Thank you Serenity Rayne for the trust!
This book ticks most of my boxes and this being my first from Serenity, that’s what got me so excited to read it - why choose trope, romantasy setting, paranormal world, familiars, multiple POVs and a strong female lead.
The premise for the first book in a series is also really attractive:
Mina Bladesong is a dragon shifter in her first year of Dragonis Academy, a dangerous place where some loose their lives, but she’s more prepared than any other student. Her father made sure of that. By any and all means necessary.
Honed into a weapon like no other exists, she’s about to take the entire place over by storm, whether they like it or not.
“Who is he, this man I’m supposed to fight alongside? And why does it feel like the world is holding its breath, waiting for me to step into a future I can’t quite see yet? ”
Abraxis Havock, a unique dragon shifter, has known Mina is his fated mate since she was born and will stop at nothing to protect her. The fact their fathers arranged their marriage is secondary to that. She comes first. Every time.
Him and his shifter friends will do everything in their power to make sure Mina strives at Dragonis Academy.
~*~
Now this is where the castle of cards comes down hard for me - Even though the premise eludes to an amazing story, It fell way too short on so many details it kind of spoiled it for me.
I go into it quite a lot, but it’s nothing personal, just trying to justify my 2 star review:
We are not provided with any background of the world we are diving in, which feels like assumptions were made that we would understand what the caracters mean to say or what the event/situation means and none gets explained - We miss their importance or significance right away, and worst, we feel like we missed something, which we did not. Any revelations become a tripping stone instead of a surprise.
A lot of characters are presented without introduction (as if we are supposed to know them) which makes it difficult not only to imagine them but to understand who they are.
There are time jumps skipping so much plot or character development, which we would very much appreciate for building an attachment to the main characters, only to land in small moments that bring nothing to the storyline or their relationships.
Another thing that I could not overlook is the fact that Mina presents herself as the best of the best. There doesn’t seem to be a limit to how great or special she is. At everything.
And maybe due to lack of world introduction, she comes out as superior to all without merit, including ordering around her teachers and the headmaster without consequences.
Everyone seems to be at her beck and call (friends included) and none think it’s weird.
There are also some incongruities - eg. object is suddenly missing, we are not told the action that made it go away.
Some positions are also not possible unless they have more limbs than the average human - too many hands or legs.
And while we have so many details missing, I believe this first book has too much information, too many developments, which becomes also a problem, in my opinion.
To top it all off, I could not relate to the characters’ emotional levels which felt to me, at times, incompatible with the situations they were in.
Even their friendships felt immediate without cause and hollow throughout the book.
~*~
I hate to give bad reviews but I really struggled to see this book to the end due to all the above.
Thank you Serenity Rayne for the trust!
This book ticks most of my boxes and this being my first from Serenity, that’s what got me so excited to read it - why choose trope, romantasy setting, paranormal world, familiars, multiple POVs and a strong female lead.
The premise for the first book in a series is also really attractive:
Mina Bladesong is a dragon shifter in her first year of Dragonis Academy, a dangerous place where some loose their lives, but she’s more prepared than any other student. Her father made sure of that. By any and all means necessary.
Honed into a weapon like no other exists, she’s about to take the entire place over by storm, whether they like it or not.
“Who is he, this man I’m supposed to fight alongside? And why does it feel like the world is holding its breath, waiting for me to step into a future I can’t quite see yet? ”
Abraxis Havock, a unique dragon shifter, has known Mina is his fated mate since she was born and will stop at nothing to protect her. The fact their fathers arranged their marriage is secondary to that. She comes first. Every time.
Him and his shifter friends will do everything in their power to make sure Mina strives at Dragonis Academy.
~*~
Now this is where the castle of cards comes down hard for me - Even though the premise eludes to an amazing story, It fell way too short on so many details it kind of spoiled it for me.
I go into it quite a lot, but it’s nothing personal, just trying to justify my 2 star review:
We are not provided with any background of the world we are diving in, which feels like assumptions were made that we would understand what the caracters mean to say or what the event/situation means and none gets explained - We miss their importance or significance right away, and worst, we feel like we missed something, which we did not. Any revelations become a tripping stone instead of a surprise.
A lot of characters are presented without introduction (as if we are supposed to know them) which makes it difficult not only to imagine them but to understand who they are.
There are time jumps skipping so much plot or character development, which we would very much appreciate for building an attachment to the main characters, only to land in small moments that bring nothing to the storyline or their relationships.
Another thing that I could not overlook is the fact that Mina presents herself as the best of the best. There doesn’t seem to be a limit to how great or special she is. At everything.
And maybe due to lack of world introduction, she comes out as superior to all without merit, including ordering around her teachers and the headmaster without consequences.
Everyone seems to be at her beck and call (friends included) and none think it’s weird.
There are also some incongruities - eg. object is suddenly missing, we are not told the action that made it go away.
Some positions are also not possible unless they have more limbs than the average human - too many hands or legs.
And while we have so many details missing, I believe this first book has too much information, too many developments, which becomes also a problem, in my opinion.
To top it all off, I could not relate to the characters’ emotional levels which felt to me, at times, incompatible with the situations they were in.
Even their friendships felt immediate without cause and hollow throughout the book.
~*~
I hate to give bad reviews but I really struggled to see this book to the end due to all the above.
August 4, 2025
4.75⭐️
April 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
📚 ARC Reader review 📚
Academy settings
Shifters and dragons
Arranged marriage
Fated mates
RH
Mina has been raised by her father to be the perfect weapon and is starting Dragonis Academy. She has been betrothed since birth but has never met her future husband and has no idea who he is.
Trial Of The Cursed Egg gave me Fourth Wing with maybe a little bit of Harry Potter mixed in vibes. Mina is a dragon shifter attending a war college academy. In addition to dragon shifters, there are griffin, basilisk, and gargoyle shifters as well. Students who score high enough can compete in the trial for a cursed egg. There are 7 of them, each representing seven deadly sins.
I absolutely devoured this book. I loved Abraxis, the MMC. There were a few questions I had with the world building/ pacing, but it's only the first book, so maybe we'll find out in later books...
Can't wait until the next book.
📚 ARC Reader review 📚
Academy settings
Shifters and dragons
Arranged marriage
Fated mates
RH
Mina has been raised by her father to be the perfect weapon and is starting Dragonis Academy. She has been betrothed since birth but has never met her future husband and has no idea who he is.
Trial Of The Cursed Egg gave me Fourth Wing with maybe a little bit of Harry Potter mixed in vibes. Mina is a dragon shifter attending a war college academy. In addition to dragon shifters, there are griffin, basilisk, and gargoyle shifters as well. Students who score high enough can compete in the trial for a cursed egg. There are 7 of them, each representing seven deadly sins.
I absolutely devoured this book. I loved Abraxis, the MMC. There were a few questions I had with the world building/ pacing, but it's only the first book, so maybe we'll find out in later books...
Can't wait until the next book.
April 11, 2025
Dragonis Academy book 1
SPOILERS in review. Complex story about a dominant female dragon shifter, finding her mates, and training for a hidden war. First, be sure you read and use the glossary in the back of the book, because this just dumps the reader into events with no explanation of the world construct. The first half is especially choppy and hard to get into. Everything is portrayed in an overly dramatic fashion, like OMG every day. Basically, A young cross bred female dragon is born and her mate is present at her hatching. She doesn't know who he is, but knows she has a "betrothed" arranged by her powerful and deadly father. They're lucky to be both mates and betrothed, because society leans towards pure, powerful breeding rather than fated love. Her father viciously trains her into wonder dragon all her life, she believes this is love and strives to please him. Just before her dragon emerges, at age 21, she is sent to an academy where her mate teaches. She excels in all the training, surpassing everyone. Her dragon emerges, she recognizes her mate(s) and suddenly realizes her father is evil. I mean for 20 years her mother, her sister and she are forced to wear magic collars that impose submission! She got her mage friend to fix her collar so she wasn't really bound, and she didn't realize Dad was bad? Anyway the book moves very fast with new information crashing in on each page. She has a strange, almost irritating, personality. Dominant and bossy, then weak and whining because her second mate is resistant. Of course she gets one of the cursed eggs which appear, but aren't explained until later in the book. Then she develops another super power. All while her father and a mean girl try to kill her. Ok, that's a lot, so take it slow. I definitely wanted more character descriptions of the nest members, so maybe in the next books.
SPOILERS in review. Complex story about a dominant female dragon shifter, finding her mates, and training for a hidden war. First, be sure you read and use the glossary in the back of the book, because this just dumps the reader into events with no explanation of the world construct. The first half is especially choppy and hard to get into. Everything is portrayed in an overly dramatic fashion, like OMG every day. Basically, A young cross bred female dragon is born and her mate is present at her hatching. She doesn't know who he is, but knows she has a "betrothed" arranged by her powerful and deadly father. They're lucky to be both mates and betrothed, because society leans towards pure, powerful breeding rather than fated love. Her father viciously trains her into wonder dragon all her life, she believes this is love and strives to please him. Just before her dragon emerges, at age 21, she is sent to an academy where her mate teaches. She excels in all the training, surpassing everyone. Her dragon emerges, she recognizes her mate(s) and suddenly realizes her father is evil. I mean for 20 years her mother, her sister and she are forced to wear magic collars that impose submission! She got her mage friend to fix her collar so she wasn't really bound, and she didn't realize Dad was bad? Anyway the book moves very fast with new information crashing in on each page. She has a strange, almost irritating, personality. Dominant and bossy, then weak and whining because her second mate is resistant. Of course she gets one of the cursed eggs which appear, but aren't explained until later in the book. Then she develops another super power. All while her father and a mean girl try to kill her. Ok, that's a lot, so take it slow. I definitely wanted more character descriptions of the nest members, so maybe in the next books.
March 31, 2025
This book has a lot of what I love - strong FMC, mates, dragons, a dangerous academy - but unfortunately, it fell a little short for me. It has a lot of potential and there are some funny and sweet moments between the characters. I just needed more detail to help me understand what was going on. I felt lost multiple times in the story. There are characters that are introduced with very little description, making it difficult to keep track of who was who. Background of the world and magic also would’ve been helpful. It seems as though there are tensions/war between different groups and I’m not sure why. I appreciated the fast pace of the story but do think it would’ve benefited from some slower moments to help develop the world and relationships.
There is such an interesting premise and I feel like there’s still a lot more to be discovered. I’m definitely intrigued enough to move on to book 2. Many thanks to the author for the advanced copy.
There is such an interesting premise and I feel like there’s still a lot more to be discovered. I’m definitely intrigued enough to move on to book 2. Many thanks to the author for the advanced copy.
March 27, 2025
ARC Review.
I went into this book having limited expectations since I’m new to this author and series, and ended up really enjoying it. The characters are well written and dynamic having their own pasts, problems and changing feelings. Mina is an amazing FMC who is very strong willed and willing to face everything thrown at her head first. But she’s also seen to be very smart and thinks through things before rushing in, and she always seems to be steps ahead of the rest of the crew. She has so much love for the characters surrounding her and willing to do anything for her mates, even in the face of bullying/ridicule. The rest of the characters are also interesting and having multiple POVs to see their thoughts/feelings was a bonus.
The spice is open door mostly, but limited at this point. More focused on the plot and world building, since she is still gathering her harem.
There were a few times I was confused, and wondering how we got to the point I was currently at. The pacing at times seemed to fluctuate and I couldn’t always tell how much time had passed between one paragraph to the next. But that could very well be this authors writing style that I’m simply not used to. It kept me interested and asking questions that I hope will be answered in the coming books. Overall I’m looking forward to seeing how Mina’s story develops, and can’t wait for the next book.
I went into this book having limited expectations since I’m new to this author and series, and ended up really enjoying it. The characters are well written and dynamic having their own pasts, problems and changing feelings. Mina is an amazing FMC who is very strong willed and willing to face everything thrown at her head first. But she’s also seen to be very smart and thinks through things before rushing in, and she always seems to be steps ahead of the rest of the crew. She has so much love for the characters surrounding her and willing to do anything for her mates, even in the face of bullying/ridicule. The rest of the characters are also interesting and having multiple POVs to see their thoughts/feelings was a bonus.
The spice is open door mostly, but limited at this point. More focused on the plot and world building, since she is still gathering her harem.
There were a few times I was confused, and wondering how we got to the point I was currently at. The pacing at times seemed to fluctuate and I couldn’t always tell how much time had passed between one paragraph to the next. But that could very well be this authors writing style that I’m simply not used to. It kept me interested and asking questions that I hope will be answered in the coming books. Overall I’m looking forward to seeing how Mina’s story develops, and can’t wait for the next book.
March 23, 2025
This was a first of the series for me and a first of this author. I really enjoyed her world building and the depth of her FMC. Mina is a green and iron dragon. She has been raised since birth to be a weapon, but she had no idea what kind or why. On her 25th year, she enters the war academy where she is to receive her final training and meet her betrothed. This academy is vicious, and not only is she betrothed, but she feels her mates too. The characters were really interesting, and I loved the world building and depth of characters. There wasn't much lull in the story or the action, and while I have lots of questions, I think they will get resolved as the series goes on.
"It’s not paranoia when you’ve been trained to expect the worst."
"It’s not paranoia when you’ve been trained to expect the worst."
May 8, 2025
Mina was betrothed to a man she never new much of since her egg hatched. Now in her first year at Dragonis Academy she knows on her birthday she will finally meet him, but will he want the woman she has trained to be or a breeder. Mina wants to be more, an equal, a fighter and a mate to a worthy man. Can she have all she dreamed of or is danger lurking trying to force them apart?
This was refreshingly unique. Mina is a tough as nails heroine. I liked that there is a vulnerability to her that does not come out often but endears you to her when it shows. I am eager to pick up the next book right away. A roller coaster ride that I did not want to end.
This was refreshingly unique. Mina is a tough as nails heroine. I liked that there is a vulnerability to her that does not come out often but endears you to her when it shows. I am eager to pick up the next book right away. A roller coaster ride that I did not want to end.
April 13, 2025
3.5 – 4 stars
Trial of the Cursed Egg: Dragonis Academy Year One is a Reverse Harem fun Paranormal Romantasy slow burn tale.
She may be damaged, but she is strong, sassy and takes no prisoners. All she wants is the freedom to find her mate not bow down to years of outdated and obsolete laws.
Serenity has captured all the elements of a great paranormal story, shifters, familiars, magical creatures, sexy Professors / Instructors, deadly trials, magic, secret agendas, mystery, action, frustrations, pain, suffering, romance, and much, much more.
The story is told in multiple POV which I think makes or breaks a story as you get inside their thoughts, feelings etc that make the story feel more rounded.
The elite war academy Dragonis is a dark and dangerous place full of secrets and lies and is brutal and deadly it will either make or break her. Will she survive and does she find her fated mates and the coveted legendary red egg. To find out you will have to read it.
I recommend this if you are looking for an enjoyable read.
Trial of the Cursed Egg: Dragonis Academy Year One is a Reverse Harem fun Paranormal Romantasy slow burn tale.
She may be damaged, but she is strong, sassy and takes no prisoners. All she wants is the freedom to find her mate not bow down to years of outdated and obsolete laws.
Serenity has captured all the elements of a great paranormal story, shifters, familiars, magical creatures, sexy Professors / Instructors, deadly trials, magic, secret agendas, mystery, action, frustrations, pain, suffering, romance, and much, much more.
The story is told in multiple POV which I think makes or breaks a story as you get inside their thoughts, feelings etc that make the story feel more rounded.
The elite war academy Dragonis is a dark and dangerous place full of secrets and lies and is brutal and deadly it will either make or break her. Will she survive and does she find her fated mates and the coveted legendary red egg. To find out you will have to read it.
I recommend this if you are looking for an enjoyable read.
August 7, 2025
Great storyline, but needs serious rewrites and editing
In the synopsis, it states this book was updated earlier this year. I highly recommend the author takes it to update and edit once again, because it's actually quite hard to read.
I actually like the story, it has so much potential and could be really great. Mina is a likeable FMC, the shifter world is interesting and the descriptions of the dragons are pretty good. I do even want to read the other books, but I might reconsider after book 2 if it has the same issues as book 1.
The whole mean girl scenario that plays out throughout the book doesn't really make sense past a certain point as well, it should have been resolved after a certain scene. Something else I didn't understand, is of these people are so well known in the academy, why is it that word didn't spread about who people actually were and who was mated? Why did the main characters have to constantly reintroduce their backgrounds or mated status in an academy that isn't even that big?
Reading this book was kind of like having a vivid dream, everything is going along smoothly and then suddenly without any lead up, a whole new component is added to the story, and then there's a quick dash to explain that it already existed, but just wasn't mentioned until that point in the book, unfortunately to explain further is to give spoilers.
Also, while the early parts of the book were relatively smooth, the further we got, the jumpier the story got. We would be told a fact, and then not long after, the same fact would be reintroduced as if it was new information. We would have a scene, and then without changing chapter or anything to indicate a shift, the story jumps to something else. In one part, we are told a character left, and in the next paragraph that character is present. I found myself constantly rereading sections to see if I missed something.
So in summary, story could be great, but it's a mess. If it was cleaned up it would be 5 stars.
In the synopsis, it states this book was updated earlier this year. I highly recommend the author takes it to update and edit once again, because it's actually quite hard to read.
I actually like the story, it has so much potential and could be really great. Mina is a likeable FMC, the shifter world is interesting and the descriptions of the dragons are pretty good. I do even want to read the other books, but I might reconsider after book 2 if it has the same issues as book 1.
The whole mean girl scenario that plays out throughout the book doesn't really make sense past a certain point as well, it should have been resolved after a certain scene. Something else I didn't understand, is of these people are so well known in the academy, why is it that word didn't spread about who people actually were and who was mated? Why did the main characters have to constantly reintroduce their backgrounds or mated status in an academy that isn't even that big?
Reading this book was kind of like having a vivid dream, everything is going along smoothly and then suddenly without any lead up, a whole new component is added to the story, and then there's a quick dash to explain that it already existed, but just wasn't mentioned until that point in the book, unfortunately to explain further is to give spoilers.
Also, while the early parts of the book were relatively smooth, the further we got, the jumpier the story got. We would be told a fact, and then not long after, the same fact would be reintroduced as if it was new information. We would have a scene, and then without changing chapter or anything to indicate a shift, the story jumps to something else. In one part, we are told a character left, and in the next paragraph that character is present. I found myself constantly rereading sections to see if I missed something.
So in summary, story could be great, but it's a mess. If it was cleaned up it would be 5 stars.
April 7, 2025
Once I started Trial of the Cursed Egg, I couldn't put it down. From the start, it was obvious that Mina was a warrior. She had an amazing amount of skill and a genius-level intellect. Add in how powerful she was and her cunning mind. Mina was pretty awesome, earning all of it through blood, sweat, and tears.
Mina has gotten herself some great backup. She's made friends with a bunch of fantastic guys. I thought they would have been a great addition to her harem, but for now, they're still friendzoned. One can hope. The one she does have locked down is Abraxis. He was a dream, protective, and possessive, but most importantly, he followed her lead. I couldn't help but love him.
I enjoy a good academy read, especially when it's the survival of the fittest type. You know, the type of places where there are a thousand and one ways to die. Well, that describes Dragonis perfectly. Something was always happening, and the student body was dropping like flies. I liked the element of danger. Mina got to show off, but I also enjoyed the amount of detail Serenity put into everything. The story actually felt like it was in an academy instead of just stating it. The story was at a decent pace, and I never knew what was coming next. There was a moment, about halfway through, where I felt like I was kind of blindsided. What I read in the earlier chapters didn't line up with what was happening. It was a little disorienting, but after I continued, things started to make sense. It was a unique way of writing a twist, and you know what? I wasn't mad about it.
So much happened, and this was just the first year. Trial of the Cursed Egg was an excellent read. I loved getting lost in this world., and I look forward to doing it again in the next book.
Mina has gotten herself some great backup. She's made friends with a bunch of fantastic guys. I thought they would have been a great addition to her harem, but for now, they're still friendzoned. One can hope. The one she does have locked down is Abraxis. He was a dream, protective, and possessive, but most importantly, he followed her lead. I couldn't help but love him.
I enjoy a good academy read, especially when it's the survival of the fittest type. You know, the type of places where there are a thousand and one ways to die. Well, that describes Dragonis perfectly. Something was always happening, and the student body was dropping like flies. I liked the element of danger. Mina got to show off, but I also enjoyed the amount of detail Serenity put into everything. The story actually felt like it was in an academy instead of just stating it. The story was at a decent pace, and I never knew what was coming next. There was a moment, about halfway through, where I felt like I was kind of blindsided. What I read in the earlier chapters didn't line up with what was happening. It was a little disorienting, but after I continued, things started to make sense. It was a unique way of writing a twist, and you know what? I wasn't mad about it.
So much happened, and this was just the first year. Trial of the Cursed Egg was an excellent read. I loved getting lost in this world., and I look forward to doing it again in the next book.
March 30, 2025
I really enjoy dragon shifter stories, and this one was magnificent. Fast paced, with great characters and fantastic world building.
The FMC Mina is a strong female dragon, whose past has shaped her into the woman we meet in this book. She has a fierce bravery which makes her an easy character to fall in love with. Her betrothed, Abraxis, is such a perfect partner for her and I really enjoyed their interactions.
There are quite a lot of other characters, of various species, in this book, but I didn't have too much trouble keeping track of who was who (which is something I have struggled with in other books). To me, they all felt like real people, rather than just names on a page, added to flesh out the plot.
A LOT happens in this novel, and it really kept me gripped to the end. I don't really want to spoil too much of it because I think it's definitely worth reading, especially if you like dragon shifter tales with an academic backdrop.
I received an eARC of this book from the author, via Literary Inspired and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
The FMC Mina is a strong female dragon, whose past has shaped her into the woman we meet in this book. She has a fierce bravery which makes her an easy character to fall in love with. Her betrothed, Abraxis, is such a perfect partner for her and I really enjoyed their interactions.
There are quite a lot of other characters, of various species, in this book, but I didn't have too much trouble keeping track of who was who (which is something I have struggled with in other books). To me, they all felt like real people, rather than just names on a page, added to flesh out the plot.
A LOT happens in this novel, and it really kept me gripped to the end. I don't really want to spoil too much of it because I think it's definitely worth reading, especially if you like dragon shifter tales with an academic backdrop.
I received an eARC of this book from the author, via Literary Inspired and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
April 1, 2025
Had the honour of reading this as an ARC. A new author to me. I was not disappointed.
New authors are always a pleasure to read, it's like making a new friend. You need to learn their writing style and how they form world's.
@author.serenity.rayne has managed to build an engrossing world full of intrigues, deception and camaraderie. I was pleasantly surprised by the plot and character building. Creating the beginning of a captivating series. I'm normally not a fan of continuing stories over a plethora of books but this is perfect. Enough storyline to build the on- going plot but ends with a hope for the next book not a heartbreaking cliffhanger.
I read with my whole heart and at times it struggled to deal with themes but in a good way. I want to be drawn in, cry with the characters, hole my breath while they take on gauntlets and share dreams with friends and this has an abundance of that.
Really enjoyed the book and I'm looking forward to the next one.
New authors are always a pleasure to read, it's like making a new friend. You need to learn their writing style and how they form world's.
@author.serenity.rayne has managed to build an engrossing world full of intrigues, deception and camaraderie. I was pleasantly surprised by the plot and character building. Creating the beginning of a captivating series. I'm normally not a fan of continuing stories over a plethora of books but this is perfect. Enough storyline to build the on- going plot but ends with a hope for the next book not a heartbreaking cliffhanger.
I read with my whole heart and at times it struggled to deal with themes but in a good way. I want to be drawn in, cry with the characters, hole my breath while they take on gauntlets and share dreams with friends and this has an abundance of that.
Really enjoyed the book and I'm looking forward to the next one.
April 2, 2025
This is my first Serenity Rayne novel and I really enjoyed it.
It is a multi POV but mainly follows Mina as she enters Dragonis Academy. It’s a cut throat school filled with paranormal beings. Bring on the shifters! I really enjoyed the plot as a whole, but I felt I could have benefited from a touch more world building (why certain things were the way they were).
It is a reverse harem type structure but I’d say the spice is on the lighter side so far. There are more books to come so I idea if that might change.
If you enjoy paranormal (think gargoyles, gryphons, dragon shifters), survival of the fittest at school but saving the world looming on the horizon…I recommend checking this one out and seeing where the journey takes us.
It is a multi POV but mainly follows Mina as she enters Dragonis Academy. It’s a cut throat school filled with paranormal beings. Bring on the shifters! I really enjoyed the plot as a whole, but I felt I could have benefited from a touch more world building (why certain things were the way they were).
It is a reverse harem type structure but I’d say the spice is on the lighter side so far. There are more books to come so I idea if that might change.
If you enjoy paranormal (think gargoyles, gryphons, dragon shifters), survival of the fittest at school but saving the world looming on the horizon…I recommend checking this one out and seeing where the journey takes us.
March 30, 2025
This was such an amazing and interesting book. This book really hooked me deep and now I'm highly invested in all of the characters. So much happened in just the first book and Mina has already been through hell and it was only her first year. I can't wait to see what happens in the second book and how her relationship with Vaughn will be. I also hope that Arista gets what's coming to her.
November 30, 2025
Wait!
I am going to wait to write my final review for this book series. I just have too many notes about this book and want to see if book two will be better. Don't get me wrong, I loved the storyline, but how this story was developed and written leaves much to be desired. So again, I am going to wait. (Sigh)
Overall Rating:
3*~ A Good Storyline ( This needs work!)
I am going to wait to write my final review for this book series. I just have too many notes about this book and want to see if book two will be better. Don't get me wrong, I loved the storyline, but how this story was developed and written leaves much to be desired. So again, I am going to wait. (Sigh)
Overall Rating:
3*~ A Good Storyline ( This needs work!)
March 31, 2025
This feels epic! Dragons, griffins, basilisks, familiars and mates are all in this new world from Serenity Rayne. Mina our main character is herself a dragon and quite the badass. Raised by her father to be a weapon, an assassin. She travels to Dragonis Academy where she will meet her betrothed and other friends and allies that she will need. Then there are the cursed eggs. Ancient dragons said to represent sins. What part will they play, you think you know but do we really? I’m so excited for what comes next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2025
OMG! A phenomenal start to this new series! It is a roller-coaster from the start. Ending with a cliffhanger that had me screaming ''Noooo, it can't end here!'' The characters are well rounded and I found the idea of building the nest interesting. There are members who are not part of the harem which surprised me, but totally works. Cannot wait for the rest of the series to be complete!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2025
What’s fantastic start to a new series! I love a good dragon story! I was a little worried going in with the forced marriage trope but didn’t need to, it was so well written. We should all be so lucky as to find ourselves betrothed to Abraxis! Mina is such a strong FMC. She dodges assassins, mean girls and sexist a-holes with style during her first year at the academy. She finds out some earth shattering secrets about herself but keeps moving forward. I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
May 10, 2025
Loved it! Devoured in one day. I love a powerful, fearless and bada$$ MFC. Can’t wait to see what year 2 brings!
July 7, 2025
DNF 23% Reads like a rough draft
So the the premise of the story was interesting and I was hoping to find another author to follow, however, this fell flat for me.
So my first issue is that there isn’t enough time and description spent where there needs to be. She has a familiar, but normally familiars are written in stories with witches and even then there are differences between stories as to what the point of the familiar is and what they can do. I have even read a vampire book where the vampires had familiars. In all of those books, the authors let you know the point of familiars and essential rules. This story tells you nothing.
The most annoying issue is that the MFC flip flops between I’m so strong, to everyone needs to save me. She starts off saying how her father has trained her so well blah blah blah. Then she gets to the school and puts a blade to someone’s throat cuz she so awesome. Then a girl is throwing paper or spitballs or some such nonsense and the teacher has to step in. Her betrothed/mate needs to save her from getting attacked from behind, but a few chapters later she can’t be snuck up on because she can sense it before the attack comes. She’s been abducted “30 times in the last decade,” and all of those abducters learned their lesson, but then she goes into shock after she kills the guy who attempts to come after her. She only gets through the first gauntlet because her betrothed/mate helps her, but then gets through a different course on the first try and says her dad’s gauntlet was way worse. She’s also so tough and been trained for this, but at the first sign of trouble she says “ I can have my dad come and get me.”
The other issue is the males. Besides her betrothed, there are other men that are apparently going to be her mates. I can’t keep the men straight. She danced to two songs each, with two of them, but it was said as an afterthought and wasn’t actually played out. There are no real meaningful scenes. You have both Lysander and Leander, which I hate when names are so similar unless your introducing twins or have some good scenes and descriptions to keep them straight. You have Balor, Callum, Ziggy, and in between there are names of teachers and students being thrown at you that it’s difficult to keep straight.
She has two people sent with her to watch over her, but the female is a weak dragon, and the second is never around, so how can he watch over her.
This shouldn’t have been published as it was. The author should have had someone read it to point out all of the flaws. I get that there are a lot of independent authors that can’t afford a professional, but you don’t have a friend that would read over it for you? It’s reads like a rough draft to me.
So the the premise of the story was interesting and I was hoping to find another author to follow, however, this fell flat for me.
So my first issue is that there isn’t enough time and description spent where there needs to be. She has a familiar, but normally familiars are written in stories with witches and even then there are differences between stories as to what the point of the familiar is and what they can do. I have even read a vampire book where the vampires had familiars. In all of those books, the authors let you know the point of familiars and essential rules. This story tells you nothing.
The most annoying issue is that the MFC flip flops between I’m so strong, to everyone needs to save me. She starts off saying how her father has trained her so well blah blah blah. Then she gets to the school and puts a blade to someone’s throat cuz she so awesome. Then a girl is throwing paper or spitballs or some such nonsense and the teacher has to step in. Her betrothed/mate needs to save her from getting attacked from behind, but a few chapters later she can’t be snuck up on because she can sense it before the attack comes. She’s been abducted “30 times in the last decade,” and all of those abducters learned their lesson, but then she goes into shock after she kills the guy who attempts to come after her. She only gets through the first gauntlet because her betrothed/mate helps her, but then gets through a different course on the first try and says her dad’s gauntlet was way worse. She’s also so tough and been trained for this, but at the first sign of trouble she says “ I can have my dad come and get me.”
The other issue is the males. Besides her betrothed, there are other men that are apparently going to be her mates. I can’t keep the men straight. She danced to two songs each, with two of them, but it was said as an afterthought and wasn’t actually played out. There are no real meaningful scenes. You have both Lysander and Leander, which I hate when names are so similar unless your introducing twins or have some good scenes and descriptions to keep them straight. You have Balor, Callum, Ziggy, and in between there are names of teachers and students being thrown at you that it’s difficult to keep straight.
She has two people sent with her to watch over her, but the female is a weak dragon, and the second is never around, so how can he watch over her.
This shouldn’t have been published as it was. The author should have had someone read it to point out all of the flaws. I get that there are a lot of independent authors that can’t afford a professional, but you don’t have a friend that would read over it for you? It’s reads like a rough draft to me.
August 15, 2025
The FMC seemed very inconsistent, personality wise. She was apparently hardcore trained her whole life to be a weapon, super intelligent, can use any weapon, goes through obstacle courses like she was born for it. To the point where she was almost too skilled at everything for an enjoyable read. Yet she was a nervous Nelly with bullies (less skilled and less intelligent than her) in an academy that is survival of the fittest-style. In addition, she wanted to be like her dad not her mom in the beginning and seemed like she had some respect for her father; yet, within one dinner she hated him. I get there was emotional abuse but the collars and sexism wouldn’t have been new to her. It shouldn’t have been as shocking as it was to the character. I’m not saying it wasn’t bad (obviously) but she was around that (her mom and sister being collared and talked about like breeding mares) for 20 years. That dinner should not have been so shocking. It just seemed so inconsistent that I couldn’t grasp her personality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
Dear author,
I wish to tell you that 90% of the story stayed in your head, and what made it to the page, read like a mess of dumb decisions. And I'm not even gonna talk about the sexy scenes because they were impossible.
To anyone reading this, and myself included: Have you ever seen those movies where there are constant images and flashbacks to explain things, but instead of clarifying, they just leave you intrigued and confused? Well, that’s this entire book.
I have NEVER read a story where there was 100% telling and like negative 400% showing. It was so poorly written that I did not understand what was happening for about 80% of the book. There were plot holes FROM THE START and sub ZERO world-building.
Like:
- It was never explained why they were in the academy.
- Why did they need to be sent there?
- How did the hierarchy work?
- How many races were there?
- Who was who, what meant what?
- Was there a war?
- What period of time was this?? Ancient? Modern? If they wore flowery dresses but used crossbows and not guns, even though they were literally machines and dangerous beings... did they even need weapons? Why?
- Why did the academy exist?
- Why did the prominent families send them there?
- Why was our FMC so special?
- Why did they have to wait until her 21st birthday?
- What did that mean? Why couldn’t they tell her? Why the secrecy?
- How old were some characters? Did they age??
- What did they look like? (descriptions were mostly absent)
- And why was her mate, who had known her since she hatched from her egg, SO extremely chill when one of his friends sensed he was her mate too? Literally he just said:
And that was it. No conflict, no explanation.
But most of all: who were these people??
I did not know how they looked until midway through the story. And don’t get me started on the POV, the MMC’s POV was missing where it should have been, sometimes chapters just REPEATED from his view, and other times entire plot points were skipped and shoved into a few lines from the wrong character.
Also, why was the FMC sometimes suddenly a social butterfly and then in other scenes a stealthy loner with no friends?
Why were there weird “we are in total confidence here” moments between characters, but NO actual introductions for the READER??
ugh.
I can describe the precise moment I realized the author had no way of displaying what the hell she was writing and just left it all in her mind, starting with:
Addy
- Who is she? I don't know. Maybe the FMC's best friend. Maybe someone random, maybe someone who her father sent to help our FMC.
Leander aka Lea.
- Who is he? Well, he is our MMC’s friend.
- Had he ever spoken to the FMC before? Nope.
We only got half a paragraph in the beginning of the book where we were TOLD she danced with him and that he’s kinda hot, probably. And then several chapters later, with her having had almost no interaction with him at all, we get a random flashback of her asking him to forgive her for some dumb playful thing.
He had barely been mentioned at this point. NOTHING HAD HAPPENED. ZERO real character-to-character interactions. And then this:
WHO TF IS SAMARA, AND WHY IS OUR FMC BLUSHING, SHES A 20 YEAR OLD WOMAN WITH SKILLS TO KILL HER ENEMIES??!
I searched and searched and this "Samara" character/whatever had NEVER once been mentioned before. EVER. Wtf.
And why, pray tell, is she relieved at this random dude's forgiveness if he’s basically a nobody in the story up intill that time? He had no build-up, no real presence beside some mentions, no meaningful connection with her. How am I, as a reader, supposed to care about her “guilt” and “relief” when the author never gave me a reason to even register him as a real character?
This repeats with all of the characters in the story.
again, ugh. See what I mean. No flow, zero coherence.
And you might think, okay... maybe since she a baddass, maybe the action scenes must be amazing, right?
Well.
The first trial was so poorly described I almost cried. You can not have a deadly academy test driven plot if you not only lack consistency but also can't describe action scenes.
What should have been badass action was reduced to a barely described super achievement which sadly turned her into the special snowflake plot device that never works.
Every author that does this turns their character into a mentally unstable person: deadly one moment, dull and jagged the next.
Her POV makes no sense. And when we actually need her POV, we get the MMC stalking her and TELLING us what she’s doing.
Example:
Then MMC's POV:
And you might think: Oh no, this girl from the first chapters, FMC's friend, is probably dead, she must be devastated.
But no. She doesn’t give a f-.
And magically Addy’s fine anyway. But how? We don’t know. When did the healing happen? Who healed her? Also, were they even friends??
Meanwhile, the MMC’s sister, placed near the FMC to protect her, gets more mention, but we never even see the FMC be introduced to her. The author just assumes we know.
Mid-book, I read this ridiculous reaction,when they finally tell her the truth...by accident:
Now, let's stop there. Balor is NOT her best friend. He is also not the primal MMC who has known her since birth. She met him like a couple months ago. Not-her-new-best-friend-at-all. What is this BS? And why would she act like some angsty teenager, running away like:
She’s supposed to be a badass warrior, not an “oh no they liedddd, betrayaaaaal.”
And the worst part? THERE WAS NO REASON TO KEEP SECRETS. They literally admit half a chapter later it was a mistake not to tell her. So what was the point???
And then there’s this nonsense where our FMC “cried herself to sleep, since she thought he hated her because she was a half and that’s why he didn’t tell her.” WHEN was that ever a stigma?? We knew so little about the world I didn’t even know that was an issue. The book kept repeating stuff about keeping bloodlines “pure,” but I assumed that meant not mixing with other species, NOT this random, manufactured BS.
Completely pointless. Especially because half a chapter later they "talk" it out and everything is magically fine again.
One moment the FMC is stoic and lethal, the next she’s crying like a teen and then she's written like a flirty Barbie doll after they "talk" (they did not, the MMC just said- give me a chance and she was like, okay). Just, please. what was this:
No. She was supposed to be a hardened warrior honed to the bone, not this.
And I didn’t even mention the girl drama. Out of nowhere, we get this nonsense girl-on-girl hate with some random nobody antagonist who’s supposedly “below” her anyway. WTF. Misogyny much?
This book makes no sense. The world-building doesn’t exist, the POVs are misused, the relationships are hollow, and the characterizations flip constantly. The story is confusing, inconsistent, and frustrating.
Don’t waste your time.
I wish to tell you that 90% of the story stayed in your head, and what made it to the page, read like a mess of dumb decisions. And I'm not even gonna talk about the sexy scenes because they were impossible.
To anyone reading this, and myself included: Have you ever seen those movies where there are constant images and flashbacks to explain things, but instead of clarifying, they just leave you intrigued and confused? Well, that’s this entire book.
I have NEVER read a story where there was 100% telling and like negative 400% showing. It was so poorly written that I did not understand what was happening for about 80% of the book. There were plot holes FROM THE START and sub ZERO world-building.
Like:
- It was never explained why they were in the academy.
- Why did they need to be sent there?
- How did the hierarchy work?
- How many races were there?
- Who was who, what meant what?
- Was there a war?
- What period of time was this?? Ancient? Modern? If they wore flowery dresses but used crossbows and not guns, even though they were literally machines and dangerous beings... did they even need weapons? Why?
- Why did the academy exist?
- Why did the prominent families send them there?
- Why was our FMC so special?
- Why did they have to wait until her 21st birthday?
- What did that mean? Why couldn’t they tell her? Why the secrecy?
- How old were some characters? Did they age??
- What did they look like? (descriptions were mostly absent)
- And why was her mate, who had known her since she hatched from her egg, SO extremely chill when one of his friends sensed he was her mate too? Literally he just said:
“She’s yours too, huh?”
“Yeah, unfortunately.”
And that was it. No conflict, no explanation.
But most of all: who were these people??
I did not know how they looked until midway through the story. And don’t get me started on the POV, the MMC’s POV was missing where it should have been, sometimes chapters just REPEATED from his view, and other times entire plot points were skipped and shoved into a few lines from the wrong character.
Also, why was the FMC sometimes suddenly a social butterfly and then in other scenes a stealthy loner with no friends?
Why were there weird “we are in total confidence here” moments between characters, but NO actual introductions for the READER??
ugh.
I can describe the precise moment I realized the author had no way of displaying what the hell she was writing and just left it all in her mind, starting with:
Addy
- Who is she? I don't know. Maybe the FMC's best friend. Maybe someone random, maybe someone who her father sent to help our FMC.
Leander aka Lea.
- Who is he? Well, he is our MMC’s friend.
- Had he ever spoken to the FMC before? Nope.
We only got half a paragraph in the beginning of the book where we were TOLD she danced with him and that he’s kinda hot, probably. And then several chapters later, with her having had almost no interaction with him at all, we get a random flashback of her asking him to forgive her for some dumb playful thing.
He had barely been mentioned at this point. NOTHING HAD HAPPENED. ZERO real character-to-character interactions. And then this:
I realize too late that I’ve struck a nerve. His eyes flicker with hurt. The weight of my words sinks in, and guilt coils in my stomach. “Sorry, Lea. I’m just … not used to needing protection.” I take a step forward, softening my gaze as I offer him a small, hopefully reassuring smile. “Can you forgive me?”
His forgiveness is a relief, but it barely sinks in before a sharp bang on a desk yanks me back into the present. I blink, heart skipping a beat, and find myself staring into the cold eyes of Samara. Her tail rattles in agitation, the sound grating against my nerves.
“Daydreaming, Miss Bladesong?” she hisses, her voice low and venomous.
Heat flushes my cheeks as I drop my gaze to the paper in front of me. “Sorry, it won’t happen again.” My voice is barely a whisper. I keep my eyes glued to the page until I feel her presence slither away.
WHO TF IS SAMARA, AND WHY IS OUR FMC BLUSHING, SHES A 20 YEAR OLD WOMAN WITH SKILLS TO KILL HER ENEMIES??!
I searched and searched and this "Samara" character/whatever had NEVER once been mentioned before. EVER. Wtf.
And why, pray tell, is she relieved at this random dude's forgiveness if he’s basically a nobody in the story up intill that time? He had no build-up, no real presence beside some mentions, no meaningful connection with her. How am I, as a reader, supposed to care about her “guilt” and “relief” when the author never gave me a reason to even register him as a real character?
This repeats with all of the characters in the story.
again, ugh. See what I mean. No flow, zero coherence.
And you might think, okay... maybe since she a baddass, maybe the action scenes must be amazing, right?
Well.
The first trial was so poorly described I almost cried. You can not have a deadly academy test driven plot if you not only lack consistency but also can't describe action scenes.
What should have been badass action was reduced to a barely described super achievement which sadly turned her into the special snowflake plot device that never works.
Every author that does this turns their character into a mentally unstable person: deadly one moment, dull and jagged the next.
Her POV makes no sense. And when we actually need her POV, we get the MMC stalking her and TELLING us what she’s doing.
Example:
FMC
My eyes narrow on the Tallia—the one-eyed assassins used to hunt down the most elusive prey. I know them well. Their bite is lethal, paralyzing or killing within minutes. This one barely has time to react before my blade slashes through its throat. One down. But Tallia never hunt alone. They move in packs. I already know the others are nearby, waiting to strike
Then MMC's POV:
“Exactly.” I motion toward the gauntlet as a crumpled figure catches my eye, Addy, sprawled on a stretcher, a Tallia bite marking her body. She didn’t stand a chance.
And you might think: Oh no, this girl from the first chapters, FMC's friend, is probably dead, she must be devastated.
But no. She doesn’t give a f-.
And magically Addy’s fine anyway. But how? We don’t know. When did the healing happen? Who healed her? Also, were they even friends??
Meanwhile, the MMC’s sister, placed near the FMC to protect her, gets more mention, but we never even see the FMC be introduced to her. The author just assumes we know.
Mid-book, I read this ridiculous reaction,when they finally tell her the truth...by accident:
The air leaves my lungs in a rush, and I stiffen, the meaning of her words sinking in slowly, painfully. My gaze darts to Ziggy, who’s watching me with a guilty expression, then to Balor, my supposed new best friend. And finally, I find Leander’s amber eyes, but even he won’t meet my gaze. It’s like a veil has been pulled back, revealing a truth that slices through me
like a blade.
Now, let's stop there. Balor is NOT her best friend. He is also not the primal MMC who has known her since birth. She met him like a couple months ago. Not-her-new-best-friend-at-all. What is this BS? And why would she act like some angsty teenager, running away like:
I fly on, heading toward points unknown, desperate to outrun the heartbreak clawing at my soul.
She’s supposed to be a badass warrior, not an “oh no they liedddd, betrayaaaaal.”
And the worst part? THERE WAS NO REASON TO KEEP SECRETS. They literally admit half a chapter later it was a mistake not to tell her. So what was the point???
“My friends all say the same. We made a horrible mistake keeping the truth from her, and now it feels like she’s slipping further and further away from me.”
And then there’s this nonsense where our FMC “cried herself to sleep, since she thought he hated her because she was a half and that’s why he didn’t tell her.” WHEN was that ever a stigma?? We knew so little about the world I didn’t even know that was an issue. The book kept repeating stuff about keeping bloodlines “pure,” but I assumed that meant not mixing with other species, NOT this random, manufactured BS.
Completely pointless. Especially because half a chapter later they "talk" it out and everything is magically fine again.
One moment the FMC is stoic and lethal, the next she’s crying like a teen and then she's written like a flirty Barbie doll after they "talk" (they did not, the MMC just said- give me a chance and she was like, okay). Just, please. what was this:
“Sorry, not sorry…” She winks, the gesture playful and full of mischief, her head tilting just so, allowing her hair to spill over her shoulder like a silken waterfall. I swallow, the sight of her—defiant, resilient—making my chest tighten.
No. She was supposed to be a hardened warrior honed to the bone, not this.
And I didn’t even mention the girl drama. Out of nowhere, we get this nonsense girl-on-girl hate with some random nobody antagonist who’s supposedly “below” her anyway. WTF. Misogyny much?
This book makes no sense. The world-building doesn’t exist, the POVs are misused, the relationships are hollow, and the characterizations flip constantly. The story is confusing, inconsistent, and frustrating.
Don’t waste your time.
April 1, 2025
Their traditions are old, but his wrath is fresh.
There are two things Dragonis Academy makes, rules or weapons, and she doesn't need a crown to prove herself.
She has one plan, enter into the academy, storm into the Shadowcave, and form her0self into a blade, just like her father had always wanted her to.
She's a Shadowblade, a hidden knife in the night – never seen by any, unexpected by their enemies, heading for a marriage she never wanted or planned for.
Her dad may have taken the girl she was, but the woman she had become, that woman was going to be untouchable.
Her fated mate is said to break her chains and Draconis Academy? The academy will soon learn what real terror is.
She's not going to bend the knee, not unless she's kicking the old ways in the teeth.
Trial of the Cursed Egg is the first book in the Dragonis Academy Series by Serenity Rayne. The series will follow as follows: Trial of the Cursed Egg: Year One. Guardian of the Cursed Egg: Year Two. Klauth – History of the Red Cursed Egg. Progeny of the Cursed Egg: Year 3. Thauglor – History of the Black Cursed Egg. Queen of the Cursed Egg: Year 4.
The Trial of the Cursed Egg book 1 of the Dragonis Academy Series by Serenity Rayne is amazing. This is a perfect start to a new series. It grabs your attention with its action, magic, and a compelling heroine that you can't help but root for. She is so amazing, and you can't help but love her. This book is set in a world of dragon shifters (which I absolutely love as I love all shifter books) and other mythical creatures, it's a torturous slow-burn, reverse harem and this book gives us the promise that this series is going to be an epic journey.
The heart of this book is Willamina “Mina” Bladesong. Mina is a strong and fierce green-and-iron dragon mix. From a very young age she is trained to be a weapon, but she is more than just a fighter – her past, it holds such deep and complicated layers that start to unravel through the entire book. She has to face so many different trials that vary in difficulty, and one of those trials includes a very dangerous gauntlet and, of course, the Cursed Egg Trial.
Mina has so much strength and determination, and it is all put to the teat through the entire book. But, through the book, she goes through a journey of self-discovery, and it is so intense, and there are so many twists and turns that are going to keep you reading. The plot is going to keep you hooked and is going to keep you wanting to know more, and it is going to keep you wanting to know what is going to happen next.
I loved all the characters that surrounded Mina, and they added so much depth and so many different layers to the story. I adored her bond to Abraxis Havock, who is a black dragon. He plays such an important part in Mina's life, and I love them together.
Mina and Abraxis, together with the rest of the team that they built, have to navigate all the challenges that come up in their path. And I love how their connection and bond grow through the story, which provides a beautiful emotional balance to all the action and danger that surrounds them.
Serenity took her time in building this world, and it is so rich and immersive, and I found it to be filled with such fantastic and fascinating creatures and dragons. The politics that makes up this world helps to make it feel full and possible and even more expansive.
Watching Mina face a deadly assassination attempt and prejudice, the weight of her families legacy and yet despite all that, she refuses to back down and she holds her own, she holds her ground was so impressive. And it made me love her that much more. I loved the way she rose to each and every challenge and I adored how she discovered even more about her own power and the strength that she possessed, almost like she didn't know she had it in her.
If you love PNR fantasy, dragons, action, a heroine who WILL NOT be controlled, then the Trial of the Cursed Egg is a must-read. This book is just the beginning, and I can't see what happens next. With all the action and heart and the journey of self discovery, this book has set up the stage for a series that will be thrilling and each book will leave you wanting more and asking when you can get the next book in your hands.
There are two things Dragonis Academy makes, rules or weapons, and she doesn't need a crown to prove herself.
She has one plan, enter into the academy, storm into the Shadowcave, and form her0self into a blade, just like her father had always wanted her to.
She's a Shadowblade, a hidden knife in the night – never seen by any, unexpected by their enemies, heading for a marriage she never wanted or planned for.
Her dad may have taken the girl she was, but the woman she had become, that woman was going to be untouchable.
Her fated mate is said to break her chains and Draconis Academy? The academy will soon learn what real terror is.
She's not going to bend the knee, not unless she's kicking the old ways in the teeth.
Trial of the Cursed Egg is the first book in the Dragonis Academy Series by Serenity Rayne. The series will follow as follows: Trial of the Cursed Egg: Year One. Guardian of the Cursed Egg: Year Two. Klauth – History of the Red Cursed Egg. Progeny of the Cursed Egg: Year 3. Thauglor – History of the Black Cursed Egg. Queen of the Cursed Egg: Year 4.
The Trial of the Cursed Egg book 1 of the Dragonis Academy Series by Serenity Rayne is amazing. This is a perfect start to a new series. It grabs your attention with its action, magic, and a compelling heroine that you can't help but root for. She is so amazing, and you can't help but love her. This book is set in a world of dragon shifters (which I absolutely love as I love all shifter books) and other mythical creatures, it's a torturous slow-burn, reverse harem and this book gives us the promise that this series is going to be an epic journey.
The heart of this book is Willamina “Mina” Bladesong. Mina is a strong and fierce green-and-iron dragon mix. From a very young age she is trained to be a weapon, but she is more than just a fighter – her past, it holds such deep and complicated layers that start to unravel through the entire book. She has to face so many different trials that vary in difficulty, and one of those trials includes a very dangerous gauntlet and, of course, the Cursed Egg Trial.
Mina has so much strength and determination, and it is all put to the teat through the entire book. But, through the book, she goes through a journey of self-discovery, and it is so intense, and there are so many twists and turns that are going to keep you reading. The plot is going to keep you hooked and is going to keep you wanting to know more, and it is going to keep you wanting to know what is going to happen next.
I loved all the characters that surrounded Mina, and they added so much depth and so many different layers to the story. I adored her bond to Abraxis Havock, who is a black dragon. He plays such an important part in Mina's life, and I love them together.
Mina and Abraxis, together with the rest of the team that they built, have to navigate all the challenges that come up in their path. And I love how their connection and bond grow through the story, which provides a beautiful emotional balance to all the action and danger that surrounds them.
Serenity took her time in building this world, and it is so rich and immersive, and I found it to be filled with such fantastic and fascinating creatures and dragons. The politics that makes up this world helps to make it feel full and possible and even more expansive.
Watching Mina face a deadly assassination attempt and prejudice, the weight of her families legacy and yet despite all that, she refuses to back down and she holds her own, she holds her ground was so impressive. And it made me love her that much more. I loved the way she rose to each and every challenge and I adored how she discovered even more about her own power and the strength that she possessed, almost like she didn't know she had it in her.
If you love PNR fantasy, dragons, action, a heroine who WILL NOT be controlled, then the Trial of the Cursed Egg is a must-read. This book is just the beginning, and I can't see what happens next. With all the action and heart and the journey of self discovery, this book has set up the stage for a series that will be thrilling and each book will leave you wanting more and asking when you can get the next book in your hands.
November 9, 2025
3 'On-The-Fence' Stars
Book tropes, spice, steam, specs, etc., listed at the bottom
Well, I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It had a really rough beginning, a shaky middle, and a decent ending...but there is an almost promise that it will improve with the next installment.
👎 The first 40–50% of this book was difficult to read. I struggled hard to make it that far. In the first six chapters, I think there were a cumulative five spoken sentences. From the beginning until the FMC bonds with her first mate, there’s barely any dialogue at all. The entire first half of the story is spent in one of the main characters’ heads where they monologue to themselves about everything that's happening. It was rough.
👉The author is not doing a good job with the males in this story. So far, all of these guys are vague. We know the most about Abraxis—he’s tall and broad with big black and red wings and dark hair. He’s a protective warrior. Callan has honey-brown hair and one eye, and he’s very insecure. Vaughn is tall and broad, but we don’t know much about his personality yet. As for Ziggy, Leander, and Balor, we only know their species.
🫶 The relationship between Callen and Mina really grated on my nerves. This guy is so insecure that he doesn’t think he’s worthy of a mate, so he spends most of the book ignoring and basically rejecting her. He hurts her feelings repeatedly and never apologizes. Then, out of nowhere, with absolutely no build-up, they’re having sex and sealing their bond. No indication that he has feelings for her. No indication that he's not about to turn around and continue rejecting her. No heartfelt emotion, no time spent developing a real connection—just BAM! I wasn’t ready. I didn’t want them to mate with absolutely no relationship development at all. It was lame.
✍️ The writing was a bit of a mess. It felt like the author had a lot of ideas that ended up jumbled together—sometimes even contradicting each other. First, Mina and her dad have a loving, but tough-love type relationship; they're close. Then, all of a sudden, he’s a misogynistic asshole who’s abused her and ruined her life. It came out of the blue. First, her dad is affectionate only in private, then he’s showing affection publicly at the ball, and then he was suddenly demeaning her in front of his friends. First, he was praising her ingenuity in breaking into his office to try to figure out who her betrothed was, and then he was praising her betrothed for making her wear a magic-supression collar that controlled her. It was weird. Nothing made sense. I still don’t understand what she did to trigger him into trying to kill her. NOTHING MAKES SENSE!!
I could keep going with all the many, many inconsistencies, but no one wants to read all that.
Besides the writing, I really like the idea behind this plot. It's fun and interesting, and the only reason I kept reading. So I'm going to pick up the next one and hope for the best.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Book Details & Ratings
📚 Completed Series
👀 POV: Multiple, First Person
📖 Genre: Fantasy Romance
❣️ Romance Type: Reverse Harem
🎱 Tropes: Academy • Fated Mates • Shifters [Dragon, Gryphon, Gargoyle, Basilisk] • Badass FMC • Arranged Marriage • Animal Familiars • Slow Build Harem • Professor + Student • Magic •
🌎 World-building: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
⭐ Plot-line: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
🤓 Character Development: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
🙀 Angst: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
👥 Harem: Slow build, three guys for sure so-far.
🍒 Virgins: None
♥️ Romance: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
🌶 Spice Level: ★★☆☆☆ (1.5/5) two, very mediocre, quick sex scenes
🔥 Burn: Medium
👄 Kinks: Biting
🚫 No: MM, OW, cheating, bullying, dub/non-con
‼️ Triggers: violence • blood/gore • misogyny • past abuse of FMC (supposedly, I'm still not sure I believe it).
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Book tropes, spice, steam, specs, etc., listed at the bottom
Well, I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It had a really rough beginning, a shaky middle, and a decent ending...but there is an almost promise that it will improve with the next installment.
👎 The first 40–50% of this book was difficult to read. I struggled hard to make it that far. In the first six chapters, I think there were a cumulative five spoken sentences. From the beginning until the FMC bonds with her first mate, there’s barely any dialogue at all. The entire first half of the story is spent in one of the main characters’ heads where they monologue to themselves about everything that's happening. It was rough.
👉The author is not doing a good job with the males in this story. So far, all of these guys are vague. We know the most about Abraxis—he’s tall and broad with big black and red wings and dark hair. He’s a protective warrior. Callan has honey-brown hair and one eye, and he’s very insecure. Vaughn is tall and broad, but we don’t know much about his personality yet. As for Ziggy, Leander, and Balor, we only know their species.
🫶 The relationship between Callen and Mina really grated on my nerves. This guy is so insecure that he doesn’t think he’s worthy of a mate, so he spends most of the book ignoring and basically rejecting her. He hurts her feelings repeatedly and never apologizes. Then, out of nowhere, with absolutely no build-up, they’re having sex and sealing their bond. No indication that he has feelings for her. No indication that he's not about to turn around and continue rejecting her. No heartfelt emotion, no time spent developing a real connection—just BAM! I wasn’t ready. I didn’t want them to mate with absolutely no relationship development at all. It was lame.
✍️ The writing was a bit of a mess. It felt like the author had a lot of ideas that ended up jumbled together—sometimes even contradicting each other. First, Mina and her dad have a loving, but tough-love type relationship; they're close. Then, all of a sudden, he’s a misogynistic asshole who’s abused her and ruined her life. It came out of the blue. First, her dad is affectionate only in private, then he’s showing affection publicly at the ball, and then he was suddenly demeaning her in front of his friends. First, he was praising her ingenuity in breaking into his office to try to figure out who her betrothed was, and then he was praising her betrothed for making her wear a magic-supression collar that controlled her. It was weird. Nothing made sense. I still don’t understand what she did to trigger him into trying to kill her. NOTHING MAKES SENSE!!
I could keep going with all the many, many inconsistencies, but no one wants to read all that.
Besides the writing, I really like the idea behind this plot. It's fun and interesting, and the only reason I kept reading. So I'm going to pick up the next one and hope for the best.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Book Details & Ratings
📚 Completed Series
👀 POV: Multiple, First Person
📖 Genre: Fantasy Romance
❣️ Romance Type: Reverse Harem
🎱 Tropes: Academy • Fated Mates • Shifters [Dragon, Gryphon, Gargoyle, Basilisk] • Badass FMC • Arranged Marriage • Animal Familiars • Slow Build Harem • Professor + Student • Magic •
🌎 World-building: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
⭐ Plot-line: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
🤓 Character Development: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
🙀 Angst: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
👥 Harem: Slow build, three guys for sure so-far.
🍒 Virgins: None
♥️ Romance: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
🌶 Spice Level: ★★☆☆☆ (1.5/5) two, very mediocre, quick sex scenes
🔥 Burn: Medium
👄 Kinks: Biting
🚫 No: MM, OW, cheating, bullying, dub/non-con
‼️ Triggers: violence • blood/gore • misogyny • past abuse of FMC (supposedly, I'm still not sure I believe it).
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
April 12, 2025
3.5 - 4 Stars
Trial of the Cursed Egg: Dragonis Academy Year One is the first book in the Dragonis Academy series by Serenity Rayne. It is an intriguing introduction to a new series, and new-to-me author- pulling me in and keeping me engrossed the whole way through.
This paranormal romance/romantasy has dragons, fated mates, trials, an academy setting, action, adventure, vivid world building, magic, danger, dramatic developments, gripping tension, connections/bonds, chemistry, steamy encounters, rivalry, the threat of war, family, friendship, betrayal, jealousy, a journey of discovery/self-discovery, twists & turns, vivid world building, a why choose/reverse harem element, and mystery- Oh, and did I mention dragons 😊…
I admit Ms. Rayne had me at dragons, trials, and an academy setting- no questions asked. Snapping up a copy with a twitch of my finger – I found myself captivated and I was well and truly hooked before the end of the first chapter- reading avidly, fully immersed in the story.
Her world-building is rich and vivid- BUT I wanted to know so much more about the ‘world’- because what we got just whetted my appetite for more ‘background’ information on the world/academy/battles?/wars?/how the MC’s became teachers at the academy/but Abraxis is a general in the king’s army? ----- just so many little things that weren’t fully explained (imo).
The story is well-woven, and the characters are all well-crafted into fully realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws- but I really wish that we got a little more background on each of them (as above), but maybe/hopefully that will come in further instalments…
There was also a lot of repeated information as we got many cross-over perspectives – which made the story lag – which was frustrating (I’m not complaining about multiple perspectives, just the part about ‘seeing’ the same developments repeated from a different characters POV- which really didn’t ‘add’ to the story in any way). Also, the time skips/jumps, as well as some abrupt transitions made for a choppy flow in parts- which, again, was frustrating…. All these minor issues on their own wouldn’t have been a problem for me, but as they began to ‘add up’ they definitely detracted from this books true potential ---- which makes me really sad for the author as I feel that maybe her editor/editing team let her down a bit as they dropped this ball and fumbled.
Mina, Abraxis, Callan, Vaughn, (and friends) found each other, against the odds- facing more than a few challenges together as the story progressed. The ‘cursed egg’ element certainly added an extra element of drama, mystery, and intrigue to the whole story- and I can’t wait to see what happens when the egg/s hatch. And with all the threats coming (from more than one direction) things got a little intense- and since they’ve really only just begun, I expect that the next few books will make for some gripping reading.
So, on that note, bring on Book #2.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Serenity Rayne!
Trial of the Cursed Egg: Dragonis Academy Year One is the first book in the Dragonis Academy series by Serenity Rayne. It is an intriguing introduction to a new series, and new-to-me author- pulling me in and keeping me engrossed the whole way through.
This paranormal romance/romantasy has dragons, fated mates, trials, an academy setting, action, adventure, vivid world building, magic, danger, dramatic developments, gripping tension, connections/bonds, chemistry, steamy encounters, rivalry, the threat of war, family, friendship, betrayal, jealousy, a journey of discovery/self-discovery, twists & turns, vivid world building, a why choose/reverse harem element, and mystery- Oh, and did I mention dragons 😊…
I admit Ms. Rayne had me at dragons, trials, and an academy setting- no questions asked. Snapping up a copy with a twitch of my finger – I found myself captivated and I was well and truly hooked before the end of the first chapter- reading avidly, fully immersed in the story.
Her world-building is rich and vivid- BUT I wanted to know so much more about the ‘world’- because what we got just whetted my appetite for more ‘background’ information on the world/academy/battles?/wars?/how the MC’s became teachers at the academy/but Abraxis is a general in the king’s army? ----- just so many little things that weren’t fully explained (imo).
The story is well-woven, and the characters are all well-crafted into fully realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws- but I really wish that we got a little more background on each of them (as above), but maybe/hopefully that will come in further instalments…
There was also a lot of repeated information as we got many cross-over perspectives – which made the story lag – which was frustrating (I’m not complaining about multiple perspectives, just the part about ‘seeing’ the same developments repeated from a different characters POV- which really didn’t ‘add’ to the story in any way). Also, the time skips/jumps, as well as some abrupt transitions made for a choppy flow in parts- which, again, was frustrating…. All these minor issues on their own wouldn’t have been a problem for me, but as they began to ‘add up’ they definitely detracted from this books true potential ---- which makes me really sad for the author as I feel that maybe her editor/editing team let her down a bit as they dropped this ball and fumbled.
Mina, Abraxis, Callan, Vaughn, (and friends) found each other, against the odds- facing more than a few challenges together as the story progressed. The ‘cursed egg’ element certainly added an extra element of drama, mystery, and intrigue to the whole story- and I can’t wait to see what happens when the egg/s hatch. And with all the threats coming (from more than one direction) things got a little intense- and since they’ve really only just begun, I expect that the next few books will make for some gripping reading.
So, on that note, bring on Book #2.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Serenity Rayne!
August 4, 2025
⚠️ Spoiler Warning ⚠️
I wanted to love this series—and at first, I really thought I would. After finishing both Book 1 and Book 2, I’m left feeling more frustrated than fulfilled. Here’s my breakdown of the journey so far:
Book 1: 3.5/5 Stars
The first installment had a lot going for it.
- Solid world-building
- A badass FMC (main female character)
- Fascinating creatures and character dynamics
- A large harem that builds gradually, with some real intrigue and suspense around potential mates
I’m not usually a fan of slow burns, but for this story, I was willing to be patient. The pacing worked well enough, and the relationships felt like they had room to breathe. The cliffhanger left me eager for Book 2—frustrated in the best way. I was on board.
Book 2: 2/5 Stars
Unfortunately, Book 2 felt like a huge step back in nearly every way. Despite the higher page count, the storytelling quality dropped noticeably. Key issues:
1. Mina’s Seer Ability
This was the biggest letdown. Mina’s ability completely undermined the suspense, especially during what should have been the book’s climactic moments. Why rob readers of the big, epic payoff by revealing major events halfway through? Klauth’s introduction—something I was genuinely excited for—was spoiled way too early. It killed the tension and made the rest of the book feel unnecessary.
2. Skipped Scenes & Rushed Plot
Important scenes were skipped or summarized instead of shown, and it started to feel like the story was being held together with duct tape. With a planned 6-book arc and 400+ pages per book, there’s no excuse for rushing key character and plot developments. It feels like the author is juggling too many threads and starting to lose grip on the details that made Book 1 so engaging.
3. Relationship Development (or Lack Thereof)
This one really stung. Book 1 did such a great job with the slow-burn buildup. But Book 2 seemed to abandon that entirely. Leander suddenly takes center stage—claiming the FMC—without any real buildup, while characters like Balor and Ziggy (who had more meaningful interactions in Book 1) are sidelined or barely acknowledged.
It felt like their arcs were just shoved in as an afterthought. Klauth was introduced similarly—hyped up and then rushed into the fold without payoff. This is a classic pitfall in large harem stories: promising deep connections and then lumping characters in with little care.
Final Thoughts
I really wanted this to be a go-to series for my reverse harem/multi-species fantasy fix. Book 1 gave me hope that I’d found something special. But Book 2 left me feeling let down and disconnected. I’m not sure I’ll continue with the series, and that’s disappointing—especially as someone who enjoys expansive, well-paced harems and immersive world-building.
I hope future installments tighten up the storytelling and give the characters the attention they deserve. For now, though, I’m stepping away.
I wanted to love this series—and at first, I really thought I would. After finishing both Book 1 and Book 2, I’m left feeling more frustrated than fulfilled. Here’s my breakdown of the journey so far:
Book 1: 3.5/5 Stars
The first installment had a lot going for it.
- Solid world-building
- A badass FMC (main female character)
- Fascinating creatures and character dynamics
- A large harem that builds gradually, with some real intrigue and suspense around potential mates
I’m not usually a fan of slow burns, but for this story, I was willing to be patient. The pacing worked well enough, and the relationships felt like they had room to breathe. The cliffhanger left me eager for Book 2—frustrated in the best way. I was on board.
Book 2: 2/5 Stars
Unfortunately, Book 2 felt like a huge step back in nearly every way. Despite the higher page count, the storytelling quality dropped noticeably. Key issues:
1. Mina’s Seer Ability
This was the biggest letdown. Mina’s ability completely undermined the suspense, especially during what should have been the book’s climactic moments. Why rob readers of the big, epic payoff by revealing major events halfway through? Klauth’s introduction—something I was genuinely excited for—was spoiled way too early. It killed the tension and made the rest of the book feel unnecessary.
2. Skipped Scenes & Rushed Plot
Important scenes were skipped or summarized instead of shown, and it started to feel like the story was being held together with duct tape. With a planned 6-book arc and 400+ pages per book, there’s no excuse for rushing key character and plot developments. It feels like the author is juggling too many threads and starting to lose grip on the details that made Book 1 so engaging.
3. Relationship Development (or Lack Thereof)
This one really stung. Book 1 did such a great job with the slow-burn buildup. But Book 2 seemed to abandon that entirely. Leander suddenly takes center stage—claiming the FMC—without any real buildup, while characters like Balor and Ziggy (who had more meaningful interactions in Book 1) are sidelined or barely acknowledged.
It felt like their arcs were just shoved in as an afterthought. Klauth was introduced similarly—hyped up and then rushed into the fold without payoff. This is a classic pitfall in large harem stories: promising deep connections and then lumping characters in with little care.
Final Thoughts
I really wanted this to be a go-to series for my reverse harem/multi-species fantasy fix. Book 1 gave me hope that I’d found something special. But Book 2 left me feeling let down and disconnected. I’m not sure I’ll continue with the series, and that’s disappointing—especially as someone who enjoys expansive, well-paced harems and immersive world-building.
I hope future installments tighten up the storytelling and give the characters the attention they deserve. For now, though, I’m stepping away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2025
"Trial of the Cursed Egg" is a riveting fantasy that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the enigmatic halls of Dragonis Academy, where tradition clashes with ambition and identity. Serenity Rayne spins an intricate tale of empowerment, rebellion, and the relentless pursuit of self-definition.
The protagonist, a fierce young woman with the lineage of a Shadowblade, is not content to be a pawn in the grand game of power. Her desire to approximate her father's vision of strength is vividly portrayed against the backdrop of an academy that molds both rulers and weapons. Rayne does an exceptional job at creating a multi-dimensional character who is grappling with familial expectations and her own yearning for independence. The protagonist's mantra—“My plan is to enter the academy, march into Shadowcarve, and sharpen into the blade my father always wanted”—encapsulates her determination, making her an inspiring figure for readers who cherish tales of self-discovery and courage.
As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to the complex dynamics of the academy and the looming, ominous presence of Shadowcarve, a place that symbolizes not just darkness but also the inner struggles of acceptance and power. Rayne expertly weaves atmospheric descriptions that create a palpable sense of tension, immersing the reader in a world brimming with magic, danger, and political intrigue.
The introduction of the concept of a "fated mate" introduces a compelling layer to the story. It raises the stakes for the protagonist, who must confront not only her destiny but also the chains of expectation that bind her. The phrase “A fated mate will break my chains” resonates deeply, emphasizing the themes of autonomy and love that permeate the narrative. Rayne's exploration of what it means to be truly free, especially as a woman in a patriarchal society, elevates the story beyond mere fantasy, making it a commentary on real-world struggles for agency.
Rayne’s prose is both lyrical and powerful, pulling the reader into a vivid world filled with danger, magic, and betrayal. Each twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat, as the protagonist learns that true terror lies not just in the shadows of the academy but within the complex web of personal relationships and societal expectations.
"Trial of the Cursed Egg" is a testament to Serenity Rayne's storytelling prowess, blending rich world-building with profound themes of gender, power, and identity. This book is perfect for fans of fantasy who crave a story that not only entertains but also inspires. As the protagonist prepares to revel in her own power, readers will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next in her journey.
Overall, "Trial of the Cursed Egg" is a thrilling, thought-provoking read that cements Serenity Rayne's place in the realm of fantasy literature. Prepare for a wild ride through Dragonis Academy—you will not want to put this book down!
The protagonist, a fierce young woman with the lineage of a Shadowblade, is not content to be a pawn in the grand game of power. Her desire to approximate her father's vision of strength is vividly portrayed against the backdrop of an academy that molds both rulers and weapons. Rayne does an exceptional job at creating a multi-dimensional character who is grappling with familial expectations and her own yearning for independence. The protagonist's mantra—“My plan is to enter the academy, march into Shadowcarve, and sharpen into the blade my father always wanted”—encapsulates her determination, making her an inspiring figure for readers who cherish tales of self-discovery and courage.
As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to the complex dynamics of the academy and the looming, ominous presence of Shadowcarve, a place that symbolizes not just darkness but also the inner struggles of acceptance and power. Rayne expertly weaves atmospheric descriptions that create a palpable sense of tension, immersing the reader in a world brimming with magic, danger, and political intrigue.
The introduction of the concept of a "fated mate" introduces a compelling layer to the story. It raises the stakes for the protagonist, who must confront not only her destiny but also the chains of expectation that bind her. The phrase “A fated mate will break my chains” resonates deeply, emphasizing the themes of autonomy and love that permeate the narrative. Rayne's exploration of what it means to be truly free, especially as a woman in a patriarchal society, elevates the story beyond mere fantasy, making it a commentary on real-world struggles for agency.
Rayne’s prose is both lyrical and powerful, pulling the reader into a vivid world filled with danger, magic, and betrayal. Each twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat, as the protagonist learns that true terror lies not just in the shadows of the academy but within the complex web of personal relationships and societal expectations.
"Trial of the Cursed Egg" is a testament to Serenity Rayne's storytelling prowess, blending rich world-building with profound themes of gender, power, and identity. This book is perfect for fans of fantasy who crave a story that not only entertains but also inspires. As the protagonist prepares to revel in her own power, readers will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next in her journey.
Overall, "Trial of the Cursed Egg" is a thrilling, thought-provoking read that cements Serenity Rayne's place in the realm of fantasy literature. Prepare for a wild ride through Dragonis Academy—you will not want to put this book down!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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