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The Dragon's Heart Trilogy #1
Between Flames and Deceit
She wasn’t allowed to fall in love.
Least of all with the father of her betrothed.
When Nienna, the Dragon’s Heart, sails to Radaan, she knows she’s bound for a marriage to a prince she’s never met. No stranger to duty, she welcomes the alliance as any princess should.
But the prince is not what she expected.
Kallias, king of Radaan, has spent a lifetime fighting. A treaty ends the war between Radaan and Vellos, but it hinges upon the marriage of his son. If their betrothal ends, the tentative peace will crumble. Yet Nienna is more than he expected. Forged of fire and steel, her responsibility to kingdom mirrors his own.
Nienna needs to feed her people. Kallias needs her dragons.
Promises were made. But when duty conflicts with her heart will Nienna be strong enough to resist?
Kallias signed a blood oath. Bound by honor and the threat of dragonfire will he be able to stand by and watch her marry someone else?
Between Flames and Deceit is a forbidden love, age gap romance. Perfect for lovers of Fourth Wing and Mariana Zapata!
Least of all with the father of her betrothed.
When Nienna, the Dragon’s Heart, sails to Radaan, she knows she’s bound for a marriage to a prince she’s never met. No stranger to duty, she welcomes the alliance as any princess should.
But the prince is not what she expected.
Kallias, king of Radaan, has spent a lifetime fighting. A treaty ends the war between Radaan and Vellos, but it hinges upon the marriage of his son. If their betrothal ends, the tentative peace will crumble. Yet Nienna is more than he expected. Forged of fire and steel, her responsibility to kingdom mirrors his own.
Nienna needs to feed her people. Kallias needs her dragons.
Promises were made. But when duty conflicts with her heart will Nienna be strong enough to resist?
Kallias signed a blood oath. Bound by honor and the threat of dragonfire will he be able to stand by and watch her marry someone else?
Between Flames and Deceit is a forbidden love, age gap romance. Perfect for lovers of Fourth Wing and Mariana Zapata!
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2025
291 people are currently reading
2193 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 685 reviews
January 6, 2025
M.A. Frick never fails me. Honestly my favorite indie author. I have no clue how she hasn't gone viral and best selling yet! I truly loved this book! The angst from the Prince (he who should NOT be named *side eyes*) really made this book what it was. My hatred for him was SO strong yall. I loved the FMC, she truly was strong and stubborn. Her funny remarks and comebacks truly made me love her even more. And The King 🥵 yall... the King. I would definitely want to be his Queen. So many twists and gasping moments. I even got a little teary eyed during one moment. All around a wonderful read that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. The ending is such a cliffhanger but worthy! I loved this!
March 22, 2025
4.5 rounded up to a 5!
First off - WTF 😭 That cliffhanger should be illegal. ILLEGAL, YOU HEAR ME?? 😤🚫
BF&D had me giggling and kicking my feet way too many times. The banter was top tier and I loved Kallias's relationship with Greaves.
The slowwww burn 🔥 One thing Melissa's gonna do is write a killer slow burn. And I gobble it up every time!! There are only a few closed door romance authors that I read and she's one of them! Highly recommend.
𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐁𝐑 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
💚 Age Gap
🔥 Forbidden Romance
💚 Slow Burn
🔥 Dragons
💚 Princess FMC
🔥 Closed Door Romance - but it was steamy, OKAYYY. Trust ✋
Thank you M.A. Frick for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
First off - WTF 😭 That cliffhanger should be illegal. ILLEGAL, YOU HEAR ME?? 😤🚫
BF&D had me giggling and kicking my feet way too many times. The banter was top tier and I loved Kallias's relationship with Greaves.
The slowwww burn 🔥 One thing Melissa's gonna do is write a killer slow burn. And I gobble it up every time!! There are only a few closed door romance authors that I read and she's one of them! Highly recommend.
𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐁𝐑 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲:
💚 Age Gap
🔥 Forbidden Romance
💚 Slow Burn
🔥 Dragons
💚 Princess FMC
🔥 Closed Door Romance - but it was steamy, OKAYYY. Trust ✋
Thank you M.A. Frick for the e-ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 11, 2025
"This wasn't a drama. It was a tragedy".
Truer words couldn't have been spoken when it comes to Between Flames and Deceit, Book 1 in M.A. Frick's Dragon's Heart duology, coming your way March 24th. This is a story of people bound by duty, hunted by demons of the past and trapped in devastating situations with no solution in sight (at least, for now).
M.A. Frick knows how to write gut-wrenching, tragically beautiful stories full of angst, hurt, hidden glances, and forbidden love. She captured my heart with her gorgeous standalone, The Petulant Princess, and the love just keeps growing with the Dragon's Heart duology. I am truly honored to be one of the advanced ARC readers and have had the opportunity to dive early into this story.
"I wouldn't stay away," he said. "I'd ruin you." "Then ruin me."
Trust me, any of us would gladly let Kallias do just that. He epitomises the strong, righteous king caught between duty and forbidden love. As much as he tries, and he does try hard, his feelings can't stay hidden. My heart ached for him, his tragic past and the ghosts of it hunting him. Just when he thought his heart would forever remain closed, destiny meddled and ruined his plans.
"But I didn't let go. He wasn't just the king. He was Kallias. The man who stood beside me when no one dared, who held me as tears came unchecked, judgement absent from his eyes. The one who valued me in ways my betrothed never could."
If Kallias is a man bound by duty, the same goes for Nienna. Shackled by duty to the prince who wasn't at all what she expected, shackled by love to the one she couldn't have.
"A princess who loved a king. A king bound by a blood oath. Two lovers tangled in a web. It was forbidden. And I never wanted anything more."
A story to love, a story to cry about, a story to keep you up at night. Devour it and fall in love with Nienna and Kallias.
Truer words couldn't have been spoken when it comes to Between Flames and Deceit, Book 1 in M.A. Frick's Dragon's Heart duology, coming your way March 24th. This is a story of people bound by duty, hunted by demons of the past and trapped in devastating situations with no solution in sight (at least, for now).
M.A. Frick knows how to write gut-wrenching, tragically beautiful stories full of angst, hurt, hidden glances, and forbidden love. She captured my heart with her gorgeous standalone, The Petulant Princess, and the love just keeps growing with the Dragon's Heart duology. I am truly honored to be one of the advanced ARC readers and have had the opportunity to dive early into this story.
"I wouldn't stay away," he said. "I'd ruin you." "Then ruin me."
Trust me, any of us would gladly let Kallias do just that. He epitomises the strong, righteous king caught between duty and forbidden love. As much as he tries, and he does try hard, his feelings can't stay hidden. My heart ached for him, his tragic past and the ghosts of it hunting him. Just when he thought his heart would forever remain closed, destiny meddled and ruined his plans.
"But I didn't let go. He wasn't just the king. He was Kallias. The man who stood beside me when no one dared, who held me as tears came unchecked, judgement absent from his eyes. The one who valued me in ways my betrothed never could."
If Kallias is a man bound by duty, the same goes for Nienna. Shackled by duty to the prince who wasn't at all what she expected, shackled by love to the one she couldn't have.
"A princess who loved a king. A king bound by a blood oath. Two lovers tangled in a web. It was forbidden. And I never wanted anything more."
A story to love, a story to cry about, a story to keep you up at night. Devour it and fall in love with Nienna and Kallias.
Want to read
August 20, 2025This book is free on Amazon (Canada) today (08/20/2025). 🙂
March 25, 2025
Between Flames and Deceit (Dragon's Heart Duology, #1) by M.A. Frick
She wasn’t allowed to fall in love.
Least of all with the father of her betrothed.
Rating: *****
Feels: Tension, Heat, Wonder and Stabby.
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, High Fantasy, Dragons, Fantasy Romance
First published March 24, 2025: 383 pages, Kindle
So I think this book has single handily given me a new appreciation for and fetish for the thigh raise. I didn't even know I needed that so much in my life but I definitely do now. Also did not know that I needed this age gap story in my life. I literally love this story so much on every level. The fantasy and romance aspect of the story are both so well built I could not put the book down. I love stories about dragons and our FMC Nienna is literally the Dragon's Heart and that title is so well deserved. I loved the world building, the land and watching Nienna navigate the politics of the new court. The lore, religious system and mythology of the book were unique which really lended to the flavor of the story. I literally am going to perish before book 2 comes out.
(also internal mind casting for this book is like ... so much fun ....)
Favorite quote: King of Radaan, I reminded myself. I didn't take women in alleys. No, I would bring them to my rooms, splay them across my bed like a feast. (that was the most mild one I could find :)
This book has:
Strong FMC (Stabby)
Truthful MMC
Age Gap
Touch her and die
Found Family
Dragons
Politics
Magic
She wasn’t allowed to fall in love.
Least of all with the father of her betrothed.
Rating: *****
Feels: Tension, Heat, Wonder and Stabby.
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, High Fantasy, Dragons, Fantasy Romance
First published March 24, 2025: 383 pages, Kindle
So I think this book has single handily given me a new appreciation for and fetish for the thigh raise. I didn't even know I needed that so much in my life but I definitely do now. Also did not know that I needed this age gap story in my life. I literally love this story so much on every level. The fantasy and romance aspect of the story are both so well built I could not put the book down. I love stories about dragons and our FMC Nienna is literally the Dragon's Heart and that title is so well deserved. I loved the world building, the land and watching Nienna navigate the politics of the new court. The lore, religious system and mythology of the book were unique which really lended to the flavor of the story. I literally am going to perish before book 2 comes out.
(also internal mind casting for this book is like ... so much fun ....)
Favorite quote: King of Radaan, I reminded myself. I didn't take women in alleys. No, I would bring them to my rooms, splay them across my bed like a feast. (that was the most mild one I could find :)
This book has:
Strong FMC (Stabby)
Truthful MMC
Age Gap
Touch her and die
Found Family
Dragons
Politics
Magic
February 2, 2025
Okay. I was grateful to receive an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review. I will try to keep my review as spoiler free as possible.
I initially was really intrigued by this premise. I felt like this was a really fresh premise and use of a more traditional romance trope in romantasy. I liked that this book had dual POV’s and also it is a SLOOOOW Burn. Which for the most part I really enjoyed. The will they/won’t they and just generally appreciating the way the two main characters interacted with one another.
There were things that didn’t necessarily work for me. The book felt longer than it needed to be and had some pacing issues. At times I felt like themes or phrases were repetitive.
There wasn’t much of a plot beyond the forbidden romance. I didn’t believe the reason that was keeping the two characters apart- didn’t believe there was truly no work around and that the characters just accepted their fate. There were a lot of moments that felt important to the plot (the dagger, the relationship between the prince and the ambassador, the blood magic, the ambassador.) There were a lot of things that I expected to happen at the climax of this book, but unfortunately the climax never came.
I would also say there were times the setting shifted unexpectedly from chapter to chapter without explanation for ex. there is a section of the book spent traveling; then in the next chapter they are back at the palace no explanation.
Overall, the premise of this book was enough for me to be excited to pick it up and read it quickly.
I initially was really intrigued by this premise. I felt like this was a really fresh premise and use of a more traditional romance trope in romantasy. I liked that this book had dual POV’s and also it is a SLOOOOW Burn. Which for the most part I really enjoyed. The will they/won’t they and just generally appreciating the way the two main characters interacted with one another.
There were things that didn’t necessarily work for me. The book felt longer than it needed to be and had some pacing issues. At times I felt like themes or phrases were repetitive.
There wasn’t much of a plot beyond the forbidden romance. I didn’t believe the reason that was keeping the two characters apart- didn’t believe there was truly no work around and that the characters just accepted their fate. There were a lot of moments that felt important to the plot (the dagger, the relationship between the prince and the ambassador, the blood magic, the ambassador.) There were a lot of things that I expected to happen at the climax of this book, but unfortunately the climax never came.
I would also say there were times the setting shifted unexpectedly from chapter to chapter without explanation for ex. there is a section of the book spent traveling; then in the next chapter they are back at the palace no explanation.
Overall, the premise of this book was enough for me to be excited to pick it up and read it quickly.
October 7, 2025
just finished reading. way too pissed off to give this book 5 stars. will come back when I've had time to cool down.
January 18, 2025
Being part of the street team, I got to see this cover early on, and I knew... I knew... this was one to read slowly and take in like bourbon in front of the fire after a nice slow dance through the kitchen.
M. A. Frick pulls no stops... the best of her work is between the covers. I will have a physical copy simply to have said cover. There's just the right amount of steam without passing PG-13. Well balanced with the plot, you literally get it all.
Yet, I'm left wanting.... Melissa, spin your magic and dance through the kitchen. I'm going to sip the bourbon and replay these pages over and over until I'm graced with the second half of the duet!!
M. A. Frick pulls no stops... the best of her work is between the covers. I will have a physical copy simply to have said cover. There's just the right amount of steam without passing PG-13. Well balanced with the plot, you literally get it all.
Yet, I'm left wanting.... Melissa, spin your magic and dance through the kitchen. I'm going to sip the bourbon and replay these pages over and over until I'm graced with the second half of the duet!!
March 5, 2025
OH MY GOD. I just binged this in one sitting.
SHE IS HAS FALLEN IN LOVE WITH HER BETROTHED FATHER
FORBIDDEN LOVE
AGE GAP
FORCED PROXIMITY
SLOWBURN SLOOOOOW BURN
TENSION
YEARNING
DRAGON QUEEN
STRONG FMC
FANTASTIC SIDE CHARACTERS
HEARTBREAK
The dragons are set up nicely to be in the next book since they weren’t involved physically in book 1. The dragons are discussed often and we get to learn about them through conversations. And the ending leaves us knowing the dragons will be a huge portion and heavily involved in the sequel.
SHE IS HAS FALLEN IN LOVE WITH HER BETROTHED FATHER
FORBIDDEN LOVE
AGE GAP
FORCED PROXIMITY
SLOWBURN SLOOOOOW BURN
TENSION
YEARNING
DRAGON QUEEN
STRONG FMC
FANTASTIC SIDE CHARACTERS
HEARTBREAK
The dragons are set up nicely to be in the next book since they weren’t involved physically in book 1. The dragons are discussed often and we get to learn about them through conversations. And the ending leaves us knowing the dragons will be a huge portion and heavily involved in the sequel.
January 16, 2025
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
If you're on the hunt for a book that promises to take you on an emotional rollercoaster, look no further than M.A. Frick's latest release! With each new book, Frick raises the bar, and her latest offering is no exception. Between Flames and Deceit: Book One of the Dragon's Heart Duology is one of those books that will make you swoon, sweat, wrench your heart out and still leave you begging for more! Beautiful, devastating, gritty and tragic, how can it be possible that M.A. Frick gets better with every book she writes?
𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓:
In Between Flames and Deceit, we meet Nienna, a fierce and dutiful female main character who knows her worth. Kallias, the male main character, is the honorable King of Radaan and father of her betrothed, fully aware of his responsibilities and the sacrifices his role demands. Both central characters find themselves torn between duty, sacrifice, and honor in a realm dominated by dragons, an enemy nation with sharp teeth and where hidden truths can lead to ruin. But will love be powerful enough to overcome all these challenges? Will Kallias and Nienna dare to defy the very laws that bind them, or will honor and duty eclipse their hearts forever? 𝐾𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑎𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑁𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑠𝑘 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑠: 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑙𝑦 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙, 𝑜𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑒?
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖:
The tension, the longing, and those slow-burn moments create an atmosphere so captivating that you can't help but become emotionally invested, tugging at my heartstrings and leaving me with a mix of emotions—everything from joy, heartbreak to secondhand embarrassment for some of the characters. This book had me turning its pages eagerly into the early morning hours, and despite its length, the writing style, tension, and suspense made it a swift and enjoyable read! The ending of the book found me needing to be stitched back up, because my heart was ripped out and took off on the back of a dragon... literally and figuratively...
I also didn't realize how much I needed the 𝒈𝙤𝒂𝙩 references sprinkled throughout the story, but I eagerly anticipated them, it was such a quirky touch! It’s funny how little things like that can make a story even more enjoyable and now I find myself wanting all the goats in my life! 𝙂𝒊𝙫𝒆 𝒎𝙚 𝙖𝒍𝙡 𝙩𝒉𝙚 𝙜𝒐𝙖𝒕𝙨!
M.A. Frick is undoubtedly a literary force, and her evolution as an author only adds to the excitement of diving into her next adventure, Between Flames and Deceit. Frick's storytelling reminds us of the beauty and pain of love, friendship, duty, sacrifice and the journey of self-discovery. If you haven’t picked up one of her books yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. M.A. Frick has once again proven why she is an essential author on any reading list. Prepare yourself for a journey that will resonate long after you've read the final page, because with Frick, every story is a promise of enchantment, whimsy and emotional depth.
𝑮𝒐 𝒔𝒏𝒂𝒈 𝑩𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝑭𝒍𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒕, 𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒃 𝒂 𝒄𝒐𝒛𝒚 𝒃𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒆𝒕, 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒊𝒏, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆! 𝑯𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈!
♥️ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 5 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒔
🔥 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞:
🔥 🔥 .5
2.5 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 5
𝐶𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑑𝑜𝑜𝑟 𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐
✨ 5 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 5 𝙂𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠! ✨
If you're on the hunt for a book that promises to take you on an emotional rollercoaster, look no further than M.A. Frick's latest release! With each new book, Frick raises the bar, and her latest offering is no exception. Between Flames and Deceit: Book One of the Dragon's Heart Duology is one of those books that will make you swoon, sweat, wrench your heart out and still leave you begging for more! Beautiful, devastating, gritty and tragic, how can it be possible that M.A. Frick gets better with every book she writes?
𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓:
In Between Flames and Deceit, we meet Nienna, a fierce and dutiful female main character who knows her worth. Kallias, the male main character, is the honorable King of Radaan and father of her betrothed, fully aware of his responsibilities and the sacrifices his role demands. Both central characters find themselves torn between duty, sacrifice, and honor in a realm dominated by dragons, an enemy nation with sharp teeth and where hidden truths can lead to ruin. But will love be powerful enough to overcome all these challenges? Will Kallias and Nienna dare to defy the very laws that bind them, or will honor and duty eclipse their hearts forever? 𝐾𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑎𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑁𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑠𝑘 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑚𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑣𝑒𝑠: 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑙𝑦 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙, 𝑜𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑖𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑠𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑒?
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖:
The tension, the longing, and those slow-burn moments create an atmosphere so captivating that you can't help but become emotionally invested, tugging at my heartstrings and leaving me with a mix of emotions—everything from joy, heartbreak to secondhand embarrassment for some of the characters. This book had me turning its pages eagerly into the early morning hours, and despite its length, the writing style, tension, and suspense made it a swift and enjoyable read! The ending of the book found me needing to be stitched back up, because my heart was ripped out and took off on the back of a dragon... literally and figuratively...
I also didn't realize how much I needed the 𝒈𝙤𝒂𝙩 references sprinkled throughout the story, but I eagerly anticipated them, it was such a quirky touch! It’s funny how little things like that can make a story even more enjoyable and now I find myself wanting all the goats in my life! 𝙂𝒊𝙫𝒆 𝒎𝙚 𝙖𝒍𝙡 𝙩𝒉𝙚 𝙜𝒐𝙖𝒕𝙨!
M.A. Frick is undoubtedly a literary force, and her evolution as an author only adds to the excitement of diving into her next adventure, Between Flames and Deceit. Frick's storytelling reminds us of the beauty and pain of love, friendship, duty, sacrifice and the journey of self-discovery. If you haven’t picked up one of her books yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. M.A. Frick has once again proven why she is an essential author on any reading list. Prepare yourself for a journey that will resonate long after you've read the final page, because with Frick, every story is a promise of enchantment, whimsy and emotional depth.
𝑮𝒐 𝒔𝒏𝒂𝒈 𝑩𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝑭𝒍𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒕, 𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒃 𝒂 𝒄𝒐𝒛𝒚 𝒃𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒆𝒕, 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒊𝒏, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆! 𝑯𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈!
♥️ 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
5 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 5 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒔
🔥 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞:
🔥 🔥 .5
2.5 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 5
𝐶𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑑𝑜𝑜𝑟 𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
🐐🐐🐐🐐🐐
✨ 5 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 5 𝙂𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠! ✨
April 24, 2025
Tikėjaus, kad šita knyga patiks ir 30% tikrai buvau užkabinta, bet tada... tiek pasikartojančių dalykų, kad siužetas pasidarė nuobodus.
Fantasy pasaulis skurdokas. Nors veikėjai abu man patinka, bet... tiesiog taaaip nuobodu, nes visas siužetas sukosi noriu, negaliu. Apie drakonus išvis simboliškai, nors buvo aprašyme žadėta kitaip 😩 Vertinant kaip forbidden love / love angst / romance book gal ji ir būtų nebloga, bet tiesiog ne man ir ne tai, ko tikėjausi.
Gulėjo neužbaigta ties 80% ir nebegaliu, perskaičiau greitom pabaigą😆
Fantasy pasaulis skurdokas. Nors veikėjai abu man patinka, bet... tiesiog taaaip nuobodu, nes visas siužetas sukosi noriu, negaliu. Apie drakonus išvis simboliškai, nors buvo aprašyme žadėta kitaip 😩 Vertinant kaip forbidden love / love angst / romance book gal ji ir būtų nebloga, bet tiesiog ne man ir ne tai, ko tikėjausi.
Gulėjo neužbaigta ties 80% ir nebegaliu, perskaičiau greitom pabaigą😆
March 26, 2025
This is a masterclass in yearning. This book doesn't just give you slow-burn romance—it owns the concept, cradles it in dragonfire, and delivers some of the best longing and emotional turmoil I’ve ever read. Every glance, every touch, every unspoken moment between Kallias and Nienna had me absolutely riveted. I was hanging on every single word.
Kallias and Nienna are everything. These aren’t just two people thrown together by circumstance—they are bound by duty, responsibility, and impossible choices. And yet, despite everything, they want. And I felt every ounce of that tension. Kallias, a man who has spent a lifetime fighting, deserves happiness. And Nienna, fierce and unwavering, deserves a love that truly sees her, values her, and puts her first. Watching them struggle between obligation and desire was exquisite agony.
But this book isn’t just about their romance—M.A. Frick delivers fantastic world-building, deeply emotional moments that wreck you, and a plot filled with political intrigue, dragons, and impossible stakes. And let’s talk about the age gap. Because Frick? Absolutely nails it. The dynamic between Kallias and Nienna never feels forced or unbalanced—it feels earned, real, and powerful.
This is hands down one of the best age-gap romances I’ve ever read, and I need more people to experience this phenomenal story. If you love slow-burn, aching tension, and a romance that feels as powerful as a dragon’s roar, Between Flames and Deceit is a must-read.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Kallias and Nienna are everything. These aren’t just two people thrown together by circumstance—they are bound by duty, responsibility, and impossible choices. And yet, despite everything, they want. And I felt every ounce of that tension. Kallias, a man who has spent a lifetime fighting, deserves happiness. And Nienna, fierce and unwavering, deserves a love that truly sees her, values her, and puts her first. Watching them struggle between obligation and desire was exquisite agony.
But this book isn’t just about their romance—M.A. Frick delivers fantastic world-building, deeply emotional moments that wreck you, and a plot filled with political intrigue, dragons, and impossible stakes. And let’s talk about the age gap. Because Frick? Absolutely nails it. The dynamic between Kallias and Nienna never feels forced or unbalanced—it feels earned, real, and powerful.
This is hands down one of the best age-gap romances I’ve ever read, and I need more people to experience this phenomenal story. If you love slow-burn, aching tension, and a romance that feels as powerful as a dragon’s roar, Between Flames and Deceit is a must-read.
Thanks so much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
March 8, 2025
5⭐️
1🌶️
Are you looking for a book chock full of angst, tension, forbidden love and a slooooowwwwww burrrrrn romance? LOOK NO FURTHER! This book hooked me from the start! I haven’t read many age gap romances that aren’t about a 500 year old fae with a 19 year old for example, so when I saw the blurb for this book… where the princess is betrothed to the prince but falls for the KING, I was intrigued. And let me tell you, this king is a MAN and I am in love 😮💨
This book is full of the best tension, the best yearning and forbidden love. I just loved the dynamic between Kallias and Nienna. I’m convinced they are fated to be together, their chemistry was so good and I just adored every scene of them together. Give me all the angst and tension and I’m sat.
There’s also plenty of court intrigue, lovable side characters and some not so loveable ones trying to ruin the day. The world building was well done and descriptive, I really felt immersed in the world. Add in dragons and other mythical creatures + goats (trust me, you’ll love the goats 😅) and you get a gripping romantasy you won’t want to put down!
AND THE ENDING. All the books I’ve been reading recently have had such wild cliffhangers! I am absolutely SHOOK and am now stalking the author for any crumb of a teaser or release for book 2. This is planned as a duology so I’m manifesting a happy ending 🥹🥹
Thank you so much to the author for the gifted eARC to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
1🌶️
Are you looking for a book chock full of angst, tension, forbidden love and a slooooowwwwww burrrrrn romance? LOOK NO FURTHER! This book hooked me from the start! I haven’t read many age gap romances that aren’t about a 500 year old fae with a 19 year old for example, so when I saw the blurb for this book… where the princess is betrothed to the prince but falls for the KING, I was intrigued. And let me tell you, this king is a MAN and I am in love 😮💨
This book is full of the best tension, the best yearning and forbidden love. I just loved the dynamic between Kallias and Nienna. I’m convinced they are fated to be together, their chemistry was so good and I just adored every scene of them together. Give me all the angst and tension and I’m sat.
There’s also plenty of court intrigue, lovable side characters and some not so loveable ones trying to ruin the day. The world building was well done and descriptive, I really felt immersed in the world. Add in dragons and other mythical creatures + goats (trust me, you’ll love the goats 😅) and you get a gripping romantasy you won’t want to put down!
AND THE ENDING. All the books I’ve been reading recently have had such wild cliffhangers! I am absolutely SHOOK and am now stalking the author for any crumb of a teaser or release for book 2. This is planned as a duology so I’m manifesting a happy ending 🥹🥹
Thank you so much to the author for the gifted eARC to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
January 28, 2025
M.A. Frick was the first author I ever received an ARC for and I am still so blown away by the intricate stories and characters that she creates! Between Flames and Deceit as her newest addition to her growing collection of books does not disappoint! You have dragons, slow-burn AND forbidden romance, along with political intrigue with dual POV. We meet the Draconian Princess Nienna who is engaged to Radianian Prince Tallon, a less-than-grateful fiancé. Enter the Radanian King Kallias, the age-gap love interest who’s past romantic trauma, and goal in creating a peaceful kingdom after the decades long war with Vellis. Everything gets a bit muddled when certain glances and intimate conversations start happening on a castle rooftop 🫣 Overall, the story was incredible to read and I highly recommend! Also, THAT ENDING?!?
March 25, 2025
I almost DNFd this book multiple times but wanted to give it a chance and it did have promise. Unfortunately, it didn't deliver in the end for me. There was way too much repetition especially around the main plot of "we can't," "we shouldn't," "this is wrong, but..." I also felt like at times the story didn't flow and contradicted itself, and was hard to follow.
The ending was a huge let down especially after all of that, unless there is more to the story and this will be part of a series. So many unanswered questions and plot holes, things not explained that would have helped the story.
The ending was a huge let down especially after all of that, unless there is more to the story and this will be part of a series. So many unanswered questions and plot holes, things not explained that would have helped the story.
February 20, 2025
I knew what I was getting into when I started this—I even signed up for the ARC despite my dislike for age-gap romances.
The forbidden love aspect was well done, and the story as a whole had a strong impact.
Nienna was a great FMC personality-wise. She was old enough to make her own decisions, so I wouldn’t say she was groomed by Kallias.
I always had a feeling Fyrn was lusting after Tallon, but Nienna was too blinded by her rose-tinted view of the king to see it.
That ending? Did not see it coming. I originally thought this was a standalone when I applied for the ARC, but turns out it’s book one of a duology.
Would definitely recommend this to romantasy readers who love dragons… and daddies.
The forbidden love aspect was well done, and the story as a whole had a strong impact.
Nienna was a great FMC personality-wise. She was old enough to make her own decisions, so I wouldn’t say she was groomed by Kallias.
I always had a feeling Fyrn was lusting after Tallon, but Nienna was too blinded by her rose-tinted view of the king to see it.
That ending? Did not see it coming. I originally thought this was a standalone when I applied for the ARC, but turns out it’s book one of a duology.
Would definitely recommend this to romantasy readers who love dragons… and daddies.
February 17, 2025
DNF at 62%
**THE NOT SO GOOD**
•The fantasy world is very shallow. Random bits of lore were thrown in at places that didn't make sense and weren't ever explained. It's clear that this book was a romance book with fantasy flavor, not a fantasy book with romance (and that's okay, if that's what you're looking for, but it's not what *I* like.)
•The same political bullet points were repeated constantly to the point that I started to tune them all out. Yes, I know Radaan needs dragons. Yes, I know Draconis needs food. I don't need to hear it 2,000 times.
•This book is long because it is SO repetitive.
•Everything that happened was to set up situations for Nienna and Kallias to come together... there wasn't much else going on. And I'm baffled that no one became suspicious immediately at the two of them constantly sneaking away on the rooftop.
•The stakes in this book were hard to believe. I couldn't reconcile the idea that there was absolutely NO way for the contract to be altered in some way for Nienna and Kallias to be together. Their kingdoms would still be united, so what's the problem? Age gaps are never a problem in history/fantasy, and marriage to a king is WAY more politically advantageous.
•The son, Tallon, was COMICALLY evil. I couldn't tell what was wrong with him other than that he was the victim of a Boy Mom.
•The concept of dragons only exist in this story for vibes, even though the marketing would have us think otherwise.
•I feel that the story was going in a very predictable direction.
•The formality of the prose seemed forced and was awkward at times.
**THE GOOD**
•The FMC was annoying at the beginning, but got better toward the middle. We love to see character growth.
•Kallias and his guard, Greaves, were actually my favorite couple in this book. I loved the two of them together!
•This author clearly excels at writing angst! The steam between Kallias and Nienna was 👌
I know that some of my questions may have been answered if I stuck it out to the end... the problem is, I got to the point where I didn't really care to make it that far.
All in all, it's not a BAD book. If you love angst, forbidden love, and a romance that has a fantasy SETTING, then this may be something you will enjoy.
**THE NOT SO GOOD**
•The fantasy world is very shallow. Random bits of lore were thrown in at places that didn't make sense and weren't ever explained. It's clear that this book was a romance book with fantasy flavor, not a fantasy book with romance (and that's okay, if that's what you're looking for, but it's not what *I* like.)
•The same political bullet points were repeated constantly to the point that I started to tune them all out. Yes, I know Radaan needs dragons. Yes, I know Draconis needs food. I don't need to hear it 2,000 times.
•This book is long because it is SO repetitive.
•Everything that happened was to set up situations for Nienna and Kallias to come together... there wasn't much else going on. And I'm baffled that no one became suspicious immediately at the two of them constantly sneaking away on the rooftop.
•The stakes in this book were hard to believe. I couldn't reconcile the idea that there was absolutely NO way for the contract to be altered in some way for Nienna and Kallias to be together. Their kingdoms would still be united, so what's the problem? Age gaps are never a problem in history/fantasy, and marriage to a king is WAY more politically advantageous.
•The son, Tallon, was COMICALLY evil. I couldn't tell what was wrong with him other than that he was the victim of a Boy Mom.
•The concept of dragons only exist in this story for vibes, even though the marketing would have us think otherwise.
•I feel that the story was going in a very predictable direction.
•The formality of the prose seemed forced and was awkward at times.
**THE GOOD**
•The FMC was annoying at the beginning, but got better toward the middle. We love to see character growth.
•Kallias and his guard, Greaves, were actually my favorite couple in this book. I loved the two of them together!
•This author clearly excels at writing angst! The steam between Kallias and Nienna was 👌
I know that some of my questions may have been answered if I stuck it out to the end... the problem is, I got to the point where I didn't really care to make it that far.
All in all, it's not a BAD book. If you love angst, forbidden love, and a romance that has a fantasy SETTING, then this may be something you will enjoy.
February 27, 2025
Dragons? ✅ Strong FMC who isn’t annoying? ✅ MMC to die for? ✅ goats?! ✅✅
If you have never read M.A. Frick book - welcome! This romantasy was unputdownable! The FMC is strong without being annoying. She is bound by duty and her honor. She is cognizant of her place in the world. She may not like it but she understands.
And the MMC is just…wonderful. He is everything you want from a king and a love interest.
I do not usually enjoy age gap romances but this was done beautifully. If you are looking for a slow burn - this is it. Don’t want smut - great! This is for you. The slow burn tension drove me crazy - in a good way. It built so wonderfully while being intertwined with the plot.
More importantly, MA Frick just writes so beautifully. There are so many details that the world comes alive. But the story doesn’t get lost. At the heart, is the story which moves along.
I cannot wait for book 2. 🐐
If you have never read M.A. Frick book - welcome! This romantasy was unputdownable! The FMC is strong without being annoying. She is bound by duty and her honor. She is cognizant of her place in the world. She may not like it but she understands.
And the MMC is just…wonderful. He is everything you want from a king and a love interest.
I do not usually enjoy age gap romances but this was done beautifully. If you are looking for a slow burn - this is it. Don’t want smut - great! This is for you. The slow burn tension drove me crazy - in a good way. It built so wonderfully while being intertwined with the plot.
More importantly, MA Frick just writes so beautifully. There are so many details that the world comes alive. But the story doesn’t get lost. At the heart, is the story which moves along.
I cannot wait for book 2. 🐐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2025
I received an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was such an interesting premise! I've read a lot of romantasy lately and this one was very different than the others. I enjoyed the dual POVs, but it was a really SLLLOOOOWWWWW burn. Because of this it felt slow in parts, but then would pick up fairly quickly.
I agree with others that the book felt longer than it needed to be and had some pacing issues. Themes and phrases became repetitive.
There was not a lot of plot beyond the romance, but what was there I think will play a much bigger role in the next book. And I definitely will read the next book!
This was such an interesting premise! I've read a lot of romantasy lately and this one was very different than the others. I enjoyed the dual POVs, but it was a really SLLLOOOOWWWWW burn. Because of this it felt slow in parts, but then would pick up fairly quickly.
I agree with others that the book felt longer than it needed to be and had some pacing issues. Themes and phrases became repetitive.
There was not a lot of plot beyond the romance, but what was there I think will play a much bigger role in the next book. And I definitely will read the next book!
July 10, 2025
I just finished this and I am UNWELL! This is how you write forbidden love, full of angst, tension and immense longing. I laughed and cried and kicked my feet so many times. This really is perfection! I loved Clay, Gayle & their goats, definitely my faves other than the MC’s obviously.
March 23, 2025
The steamy tension building in this had me flipping the pages non stop. I absolutely adored the chemistry between Kallias and Nienna, all the secret glances, growing lust and dangerous desires! All their accidental and secret meetings together had me swooning.
This is a gripping forbidden romance, where you can't help but root for their love, especially balanced against the hated I had for Tallon, and his arrogance and disrespect towards his future bride. You know a book is great when you can passionately love, and vehemently despise characters, and this definitely does it.
This whole world is magical too with dragons, assassins and unique magic. It's a land filled with political intrigue, tension, sacrifice, and pitting love against duty.
It is captivating, emotional, witty, swoony, and a must read!
I am dying after that ending though and need part 2 of this duology yesterday.
🔥 "Gods, she would be a stunning queen - fierce. Beautiful"
🔥 "Are you going to command me, King Kallias?"
🔥 "Two lovers tangled in a web. It was forbidden. And I never wanted anything more"
This is a gripping forbidden romance, where you can't help but root for their love, especially balanced against the hated I had for Tallon, and his arrogance and disrespect towards his future bride. You know a book is great when you can passionately love, and vehemently despise characters, and this definitely does it.
This whole world is magical too with dragons, assassins and unique magic. It's a land filled with political intrigue, tension, sacrifice, and pitting love against duty.
It is captivating, emotional, witty, swoony, and a must read!
I am dying after that ending though and need part 2 of this duology yesterday.
🔥 "Gods, she would be a stunning queen - fierce. Beautiful"
🔥 "Are you going to command me, King Kallias?"
🔥 "Two lovers tangled in a web. It was forbidden. And I never wanted anything more"
March 25, 2025
Right, so I picked up "Between Flames and Deceit" expecting a bit of dragon-y drama and maybe a swoony prince. What I got was a whole lot more… complicated. Our heroine, Nienna, is betrothed to a prince she hasn't met, which is already awkward enough. But then BAM! Enter the father of said prince, King Kallias, who is apparently the brooding, battle-scarred type with eyes that could melt glaciers.
The book description hints at forbidden love, and boy, does it deliver. It's like, "Hey, here's your fiancé... oh, and his ridiculously attractive dad who you absolutely cannot fall for. Good luck with that!" The tension is thicker than dragon scales, and you'll find yourself internally screaming at Nienna and Kallias to just talk already.
If you're into age-gap romance with a side of kingdom-saving stakes and a healthy dose of "this is so wrong but feels so right," then buckle up. Just try not to root too hard for the wrong guy... or do, I'm not your mom.
The book description hints at forbidden love, and boy, does it deliver. It's like, "Hey, here's your fiancé... oh, and his ridiculously attractive dad who you absolutely cannot fall for. Good luck with that!" The tension is thicker than dragon scales, and you'll find yourself internally screaming at Nienna and Kallias to just talk already.
If you're into age-gap romance with a side of kingdom-saving stakes and a healthy dose of "this is so wrong but feels so right," then buckle up. Just try not to root too hard for the wrong guy... or do, I'm not your mom.
December 30, 2024
What a true forbidden romance! I couldn’t believe the words I was reading. Nienna has been trained to be the perfect princess yet meets her betrothed and is in a whole new life than she had expected or rather prepared for. A war within herself and a war with her betrothed. Whatever could go wrong?? I was SWEATING.
TEAM SILVER KING DADDY ALL THE WAY! I ate this UP. where’s book two
TEAM SILVER KING DADDY ALL THE WAY! I ate this UP. where’s book two
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2025
Holy crap what a ride!!
I genuinely loved every second of this book! The tension was perfect! If you like age gap romances with a true slow burn, this is definitely a book for you!
I can NOT wait for book 2! I need to know what happens next!!
I genuinely loved every second of this book! The tension was perfect! If you like age gap romances with a true slow burn, this is definitely a book for you!
I can NOT wait for book 2! I need to know what happens next!!
October 7, 2025
Age gap what!!.
This was a great start to the series, the world building was perfect gave you enough to keep you intrigued. I didn't think I'd like the age gap romance as much as I did. This leaves you wanting for more..so onto the next.
This was a great start to the series, the world building was perfect gave you enough to keep you intrigued. I didn't think I'd like the age gap romance as much as I did. This leaves you wanting for more..so onto the next.
February 3, 2025
Ok where has this author been all my (adult) life?!?! Da… I mean King Kallias hello 👋😮💨 Dragons hellooooo 👋🐉 The cliffhanger though?? Heart wrenching!! Thank you to the author for this ARC, I can’t wait to read the sequel!!
October 13, 2025
I can’t wait for book two.
Nienna is so strong and determined to make the best of what life has handed her even though she wants what she can’t have. Kallias has always done what is right even to his own detriment. I hate Tallon with a fiery passion and want a certain other character (not named for spoiler purposes) to rot.
Nienna is so strong and determined to make the best of what life has handed her even though she wants what she can’t have. Kallias has always done what is right even to his own detriment. I hate Tallon with a fiery passion and want a certain other character (not named for spoiler purposes) to rot.
February 4, 2025
I really wish you could do 1/2 stars on Goodreads. I’d give this one 2.5⭐️. Spice: 🌶️ I’m grateful to have been chosen to ARC read this for my honest review….So here goes.
This story is an angsty, VERY slow burn, age-gap, forbidden romance. Set in a fantasy world, with dragons & magic, and very traditional royal kingdoms. This story has potential, and while I’m not giving it my highest of ratings, I actually am looking forward to reading book 2. There are several plot points hinted at along the way in this book, that I’m hoping are explored more in the next book. (HERES THE POTENTIAL SPOILERS….)
The blood magic of the Velli and the potential that Tallon could be descended from that line, and not truly Kallias’ son. For one: I’m really hoping this IS the case, and that it would provide an “out” for her with her family’s alliance, so that Nienna can be with Kallias. Two: I think it would provide some much needed plot to the story & drama aside from the forbidden romance. I’m a HUGE romance girlie & while I love some sweet tension & angst & desire-building…. I love some good spicy scenes…. while all of that is true, I also don’t particularly care for stories that are lacking in the plot department. I enjoy smut, but not if the book is ONLY smut. It loses the spark. This book is not what I would consider smut — it’s pretty tame in the “spice”. But the “plot” in this book is basically the forbidden romance, with a very small side of war between kingdoms. Nienna and Kallias are both highly dedicated to their kingdoms & the safety of their people. They are highly loyal and honorable, which is what makes their love being so forbidden, so tragic. Kallias has been dealt a shit hand in life & deserves love. Nienna deserves the same, and to not be treated like garbage, like Tallon treats her. And above all, Tallon does NOT need to ever be King! I think there’s a lot more to explore there, in his mother’s shady history, the Velli wars, their blood magic, the weird wrist thing Nienna feels around them, and Tallon’s potential magical abilities. Also… why has Nienna never bonded a dragon?
I feel there’s a LOT of stories there. And I really thought this book’s climax would bring at least one of these out, as the primary direction the plot would go. But then, it just never did. Which overall caused the book to fall flat for me personally. The writing though is very well done. And I feel it’s different world-wise from your typical Romantasy.
This story is an angsty, VERY slow burn, age-gap, forbidden romance. Set in a fantasy world, with dragons & magic, and very traditional royal kingdoms. This story has potential, and while I’m not giving it my highest of ratings, I actually am looking forward to reading book 2. There are several plot points hinted at along the way in this book, that I’m hoping are explored more in the next book. (HERES THE POTENTIAL SPOILERS….)
The blood magic of the Velli and the potential that Tallon could be descended from that line, and not truly Kallias’ son. For one: I’m really hoping this IS the case, and that it would provide an “out” for her with her family’s alliance, so that Nienna can be with Kallias. Two: I think it would provide some much needed plot to the story & drama aside from the forbidden romance. I’m a HUGE romance girlie & while I love some sweet tension & angst & desire-building…. I love some good spicy scenes…. while all of that is true, I also don’t particularly care for stories that are lacking in the plot department. I enjoy smut, but not if the book is ONLY smut. It loses the spark. This book is not what I would consider smut — it’s pretty tame in the “spice”. But the “plot” in this book is basically the forbidden romance, with a very small side of war between kingdoms. Nienna and Kallias are both highly dedicated to their kingdoms & the safety of their people. They are highly loyal and honorable, which is what makes their love being so forbidden, so tragic. Kallias has been dealt a shit hand in life & deserves love. Nienna deserves the same, and to not be treated like garbage, like Tallon treats her. And above all, Tallon does NOT need to ever be King! I think there’s a lot more to explore there, in his mother’s shady history, the Velli wars, their blood magic, the weird wrist thing Nienna feels around them, and Tallon’s potential magical abilities. Also… why has Nienna never bonded a dragon?
I feel there’s a LOT of stories there. And I really thought this book’s climax would bring at least one of these out, as the primary direction the plot would go. But then, it just never did. Which overall caused the book to fall flat for me personally. The writing though is very well done. And I feel it’s different world-wise from your typical Romantasy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2025
I read this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy)
I love the Nienna and Killias. Their chemistry and development kept me going. Understanding and accepting their forbidden love was never a problem. There is a lot of sexual tension that never ends. My favorite part of the book was when they were in the mountains. I get cliff hangers, but this one is not my favorite. We have a strong female who just barely fights at the end. All of that to say I am looking forward to book 2 like now.
Spoilers below——
Request- Can book 2 have a name pronunciation page for all the characters?
The beginning had me a little worried because I saw the main plot quickly (the forbidden love), then it took a hot minute for me to fall in love with these characters. Once I did it was not hard to fly through this book. Knowing it was a series I figured we would have a cliff hanger, just wished it was more keeping with there nature throughout the book. I felt it ended at the third act.
The circling tension was a little overboard for me. I do love Killias and Nienna’s interactions but the amount of times I was like, “now” and then I was let down was like 5 times more than I would have liked.
I know that Tallon is more than likely the son of one of the Kings biggest enemies the Velli.
I want book 2 now because I feel Nienna will rise to the woman she has been through this whole book. It is not often you get a FMC you actually don’t hate or find whiny. Nienna is strong willed and does not back down.
Killias received the dragons kiss so I feel nothing was broken to begin with. She was always his and never Tallons because he didn’t even show up. I know the God’s want Killias and Nienna together and has blessed them.
I also wonder if she will make it home and that 16th dragon will have her rider. She can head back and save her people and Killias. Because woman are badass like that.
But she also has Fryn to deal with. I mean let’s not forget that. Fryn hating her family home when it was so beautiful was social climber 101. Her parents are loving and she just wants to be a side chick. (Not really she just knows it can’t be more) But the showdown needs to happen for Nienna.
She might be the Dragon’s Heart but Nienna is so much more than that. Growing up is hard, being a princess and carrying the weight she does is too. But there were points I wanted more information knowing it was there but being withheld like the History of the Velli and this blood magic that was mentioned.
I love the Nienna and Killias. Their chemistry and development kept me going. Understanding and accepting their forbidden love was never a problem. There is a lot of sexual tension that never ends. My favorite part of the book was when they were in the mountains. I get cliff hangers, but this one is not my favorite. We have a strong female who just barely fights at the end. All of that to say I am looking forward to book 2 like now.
Spoilers below——
Request- Can book 2 have a name pronunciation page for all the characters?
The beginning had me a little worried because I saw the main plot quickly (the forbidden love), then it took a hot minute for me to fall in love with these characters. Once I did it was not hard to fly through this book. Knowing it was a series I figured we would have a cliff hanger, just wished it was more keeping with there nature throughout the book. I felt it ended at the third act.
The circling tension was a little overboard for me. I do love Killias and Nienna’s interactions but the amount of times I was like, “now” and then I was let down was like 5 times more than I would have liked.
I know that Tallon is more than likely the son of one of the Kings biggest enemies the Velli.
I want book 2 now because I feel Nienna will rise to the woman she has been through this whole book. It is not often you get a FMC you actually don’t hate or find whiny. Nienna is strong willed and does not back down.
Killias received the dragons kiss so I feel nothing was broken to begin with. She was always his and never Tallons because he didn’t even show up. I know the God’s want Killias and Nienna together and has blessed them.
I also wonder if she will make it home and that 16th dragon will have her rider. She can head back and save her people and Killias. Because woman are badass like that.
But she also has Fryn to deal with. I mean let’s not forget that. Fryn hating her family home when it was so beautiful was social climber 101. Her parents are loving and she just wants to be a side chick. (Not really she just knows it can’t be more) But the showdown needs to happen for Nienna.
She might be the Dragon’s Heart but Nienna is so much more than that. Growing up is hard, being a princess and carrying the weight she does is too. But there were points I wanted more information knowing it was there but being withheld like the History of the Velli and this blood magic that was mentioned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2025
This book was one of the slowest burns I have read in a while now. We have two POV characters, Nienna and Kallias. Nienna is the princess of Draconis who is betrothed to marry Tallon, the Prince of Radaan. Kallias is the king of Radaan and Tallon’s father. Nienna’s marriage will secure an alliance between the two kingdoms and help both sets of people prosper. What if you were betrothed to the Prince… but wanted the King?
Nienna is such a lovable FMC. I immediately connected with her and the tough position she is in, being in a foreign land to be married off. She fully understands and embraces her duty to her people. The connection with Kallias is there from the very first interaction. The author does an amazing job writing the tension between these two. It is expertly woven in through the whole book. It is easy to root for these two as Kallias is a pretty great character in his own right. He is a king weighed down by his duty and struggles with his budding feelings for Nienna because he knows he can never have her.
The slow burn with these two was amazingly well done. You will be dying for them to get together. If you love age-gap slow burn romantasy then you will definitely want to check this one out. I can’t wait to see where book 2 takes us!
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