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Dragons of Tirene #2
Court of Secrets and Flames
She’s a pawn in a deadly game. A game for which she doesn’t know the rules.
One moment, Lark Axton is just a trainee at Flighthaven—a noble daughter of Aclaris training to fight the winged enemies from Tirene—who’s embroiled in a forbidden love affair with her gorgeous trainer, Sterling.
The next, she’s reeling from the worst kind of betrayals. Now, she doesn’t know who she is. Or who to trust.
Because Sterling isn’t a flight trainer. He isn’t even Sterling. He’s Prince Knox of Tirene. And he’s kidnapped Lark on the orders of his older brother, King Jasper, who claims Lark is Tirenese and seems determined to court her.
Held hostage in the Royal Palace, Lark soon realizes she may be the subject of a prophesy written before her first breath. One that could cost her life. Her heart torn by betrayal and her mind consumed by more questions than answers, Lark is soon ensnared in a dangerous game.
But perhaps the greatest danger of all is Sterling. One look from him can ignite a blaze hotter than the fire magic she’s suppressed her entire life. Caught up in a realm of intrigue where there’s a fine line between love and hate, Lark must choose between the world of her past and the one that holds her future...a future threatened by a sinister, slumbering evil that’s awakening to consume them all.
Bestselling author Nina Frost delivers an irresistible blend of intrigue, passion, and action in this stunning second installment of her captivating Dragons of Tirene series.
One moment, Lark Axton is just a trainee at Flighthaven—a noble daughter of Aclaris training to fight the winged enemies from Tirene—who’s embroiled in a forbidden love affair with her gorgeous trainer, Sterling.
The next, she’s reeling from the worst kind of betrayals. Now, she doesn’t know who she is. Or who to trust.
Because Sterling isn’t a flight trainer. He isn’t even Sterling. He’s Prince Knox of Tirene. And he’s kidnapped Lark on the orders of his older brother, King Jasper, who claims Lark is Tirenese and seems determined to court her.
Held hostage in the Royal Palace, Lark soon realizes she may be the subject of a prophesy written before her first breath. One that could cost her life. Her heart torn by betrayal and her mind consumed by more questions than answers, Lark is soon ensnared in a dangerous game.
But perhaps the greatest danger of all is Sterling. One look from him can ignite a blaze hotter than the fire magic she’s suppressed her entire life. Caught up in a realm of intrigue where there’s a fine line between love and hate, Lark must choose between the world of her past and the one that holds her future...a future threatened by a sinister, slumbering evil that’s awakening to consume them all.
Bestselling author Nina Frost delivers an irresistible blend of intrigue, passion, and action in this stunning second installment of her captivating Dragons of Tirene series.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2025
3254 people are currently reading
4798 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 335 reviews
March 17, 2025
Ok, I’m not one to write bad reviews often, but this was just too much to ignore. I don’t mind overlooking some errors, we are all human after all, but what the actual f!*k is going on here??
I truly enjoyed book one of this series, but this one was drastically different. So much so that it felt like it was written by a different person. The number of errors was off the charts; missing words, words in the wrong order, not enough description of what is happening…just to name a few!
For example: “Today, more than ever, I feel the symbiotic nature of our partnership is symbiotic” what???
More than once I was completely lost as to what is happening in the scene. One minute they’re lying naked in the mud and in the very next sentence she lacing up her boots. With absolutely nothing else in between that. I don’t need everything laid for me in minute detail, but this was only one of many instances and it seriously messes with the “movie” playing in my head.
The whole book felt rushed, incomplete, and poorly thought out.
The plot has such potential I just wish the author had taken more time to develop it and make it into something great.
The whole book read like she didn’t want to write it, but was just going through the motions.
I truly enjoyed book one of this series, but this one was drastically different. So much so that it felt like it was written by a different person. The number of errors was off the charts; missing words, words in the wrong order, not enough description of what is happening…just to name a few!
For example: “Today, more than ever, I feel the symbiotic nature of our partnership is symbiotic” what???
More than once I was completely lost as to what is happening in the scene. One minute they’re lying naked in the mud and in the very next sentence she lacing up her boots. With absolutely nothing else in between that. I don’t need everything laid for me in minute detail, but this was only one of many instances and it seriously messes with the “movie” playing in my head.
The whole book felt rushed, incomplete, and poorly thought out.
The plot has such potential I just wish the author had taken more time to develop it and make it into something great.
The whole book read like she didn’t want to write it, but was just going through the motions.
March 14, 2025
Noooooooo! Why is it over!
You know it's a good book when you are gutted when it ends. Where is the next book! WHERE!!!!
This series is fast paced and compelling, there are dragons, it is full of adventure, found family, magic and a little dusting of spice! What's not to love? The second installment takes off where we left the first, continuing the story seamlessly. Their characters are developing nicely and the world building is well done. I'm enjoying Lark's developing bonds with the dragons and I am intrigued to see how far this author takes this.
Much like the first book I find all the Americanisms littered throughout a little jarring. Not enough to bring the overall rating down but enough to push me out of the story every now and then.
Thank you to Nina for the ARC, I've been hanging on since before Christmas waiting for this book and it was worth every second of the wait! I stand by what I said after the first book, I see great things ahead for this writer and for this series!
You know it's a good book when you are gutted when it ends. Where is the next book! WHERE!!!!
This series is fast paced and compelling, there are dragons, it is full of adventure, found family, magic and a little dusting of spice! What's not to love? The second installment takes off where we left the first, continuing the story seamlessly. Their characters are developing nicely and the world building is well done. I'm enjoying Lark's developing bonds with the dragons and I am intrigued to see how far this author takes this.
Much like the first book I find all the Americanisms littered throughout a little jarring. Not enough to bring the overall rating down but enough to push me out of the story every now and then.
Thank you to Nina for the ARC, I've been hanging on since before Christmas waiting for this book and it was worth every second of the wait! I stand by what I said after the first book, I see great things ahead for this writer and for this series!
November 6, 2025
Bravo Nina frost..what a great series this is shaping up to be..on to book 3.
March 3, 2025
Part of the ARC team to get this book early and I am glad I was able to have this opportunity.
Absolutely love Sterling and Lark.
So many things happening in this book and so much more to come in book 3!
Her sister is alive but she finds out in not the most opportune way haha.
I was so excited when she got her wings!
I'm thrilled that Lark and Sterling managed to rekindle throughout the book.
I will say halfway through the book it kind of went a little bland for me, but then picked back up.
But one of the most shocking pieces of information comes at the end of the book when she finds out she's a descendant of a previous queen.
I would recommend this book and can't wait for book 3!
Absolutely love Sterling and Lark.
So many things happening in this book and so much more to come in book 3!
Her sister is alive but she finds out in not the most opportune way haha.
I was so excited when she got her wings!
I'm thrilled that Lark and Sterling managed to rekindle throughout the book.
I will say halfway through the book it kind of went a little bland for me, but then picked back up.
But one of the most shocking pieces of information comes at the end of the book when she finds out she's a descendant of a previous queen.
I would recommend this book and can't wait for book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
Thank you to Nina Frost for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book picks up right where book 1 left off, with Lark still in Sterling’s arms after he’d kidnapped her from Flighthaven. I was thrilled that before you even begin the book, Nina Frost put a recap of book 1 in the front pages. It was so nice to have that in there, and I really wish more authors would do this for the subsequent books in their series (especially when there are years between installments).
There was a lot more digging into Lark’s heritage here, and into her feelings for Sterling after his lies and betrayal. She shows some growth as a character, and is now faced with a betrothal to a king she doesn’t want and an enemy she’s yet to see. There’s a prophecy she’s only half aware of, and something keeps killing the animals on the island. This does end on a cliffhanger, but not a super emotional one like book 1 did. Overall, it was a good book 2, with small bits of spice.
4🌟
1🌶️
This book picks up right where book 1 left off, with Lark still in Sterling’s arms after he’d kidnapped her from Flighthaven. I was thrilled that before you even begin the book, Nina Frost put a recap of book 1 in the front pages. It was so nice to have that in there, and I really wish more authors would do this for the subsequent books in their series (especially when there are years between installments).
There was a lot more digging into Lark’s heritage here, and into her feelings for Sterling after his lies and betrayal. She shows some growth as a character, and is now faced with a betrothal to a king she doesn’t want and an enemy she’s yet to see. There’s a prophecy she’s only half aware of, and something keeps killing the animals on the island. This does end on a cliffhanger, but not a super emotional one like book 1 did. Overall, it was a good book 2, with small bits of spice.
4🌟
1🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
Filler book of the trilogy
May 10, 2025
This book was better than the first but still had some parts that were missing context or made me wane in interest. Overall it is a good book with an intriguing story line. Parts of the cliff hanger and ending were easy to predict. I still am concerned about her lack of interaction with her sister that she was so worried about.
Thank you to Nina and her team for an ARC copy of this book!
Thank you to Nina and her team for an ARC copy of this book!
March 22, 2025
I guess this one was better 🤷♀️
July 5, 2025
4.5⭐️
August 7, 2025
This was hard to put down. Kept me hooked till the end
March 24, 2025
Disappointed
I loved the first book in the Dragons of Tirene.
The way I'd describe Book 1 like a fan wrote it. It felt like the author handed it over to someone who loved Book 1 and let them write their hearts desire.
The first one was well written. A little YA sure but a solid plot with decent character development. It ended on a cliffhanger but I was looking forward to more story development.
I tried to like this book but the character development was out the window, even with the FMC and MMC that you knew and loved. It was like they'd never met themselves. Sure, build your character but this book happens over a handful of weeks with few big events and no well thought out character arc for either.
The plot wasn't well developed and basically nonexistent (it was more if a "does she love him? Does he love her?" Type plot) And the writing style was juvenile. Due to the lack of character development and plot, the dialogue was often stilted or just silly. There were several passages throughout the book I had to read a few times to make them make sense. (And one that still doesn't make sense)
There are all these underlying sub plots or foreshadowing to the story that leave the reader frustrated rather than intrigued and very few if them have solid resolutions. For example, the king (brother to the MMC) is supposedly doing shady things, well lets just say, that's never resolved. And even he, who is introduced in this book does things out of character bc there's such a lack of character development.
Overall, this book felt rushed. The spice: .5/5 chillies, again was just frustrating rather than even a little satisfying and the spicy frustration between the FMC and MMC added to the readers frustration as well.
All that to say, it was underwhelming based on my expectations. I can no longer recommend the series.
I loved the first book in the Dragons of Tirene.
The way I'd describe Book 1 like a fan wrote it. It felt like the author handed it over to someone who loved Book 1 and let them write their hearts desire.
The first one was well written. A little YA sure but a solid plot with decent character development. It ended on a cliffhanger but I was looking forward to more story development.
I tried to like this book but the character development was out the window, even with the FMC and MMC that you knew and loved. It was like they'd never met themselves. Sure, build your character but this book happens over a handful of weeks with few big events and no well thought out character arc for either.
The plot wasn't well developed and basically nonexistent (it was more if a "does she love him? Does he love her?" Type plot) And the writing style was juvenile. Due to the lack of character development and plot, the dialogue was often stilted or just silly. There were several passages throughout the book I had to read a few times to make them make sense. (And one that still doesn't make sense)
There are all these underlying sub plots or foreshadowing to the story that leave the reader frustrated rather than intrigued and very few if them have solid resolutions. For example, the king (brother to the MMC) is supposedly doing shady things, well lets just say, that's never resolved. And even he, who is introduced in this book does things out of character bc there's such a lack of character development.
Overall, this book felt rushed. The spice: .5/5 chillies, again was just frustrating rather than even a little satisfying and the spicy frustration between the FMC and MMC added to the readers frustration as well.
All that to say, it was underwhelming based on my expectations. I can no longer recommend the series.
August 2, 2025
We love a short romantasy that’s entertaining and easy to read
March 20, 2025
4⭐️
2🌶️
It’s been so hard to put this series down. Book 1 gave you more of a Fourth Wing vibe but book 2 went more to what I would consider traditional romantasy setting: court.
Book 2 picks off right where book 1 ended, with Lark being abducted by Sterling to Tierne, to find out he’s actually Prince Knox of Tierne. Brought before his brother, King Jasper, Lark walks the line of utter anger at being brought here and curiosity to find out more about her true heritage. She also begins to grow her connection with the dragons and embrace her true dragon caller destiny. But with it, comes a mysterious danger lurking and a prophecy she can’t quite understand. All this, while battling with a King who’s obsessed to have her and a Prince who already does.
I loved the character growth of Lark in this book. To see her come into her powers and connection with the dragons was fun to read. I also like that for once, the connection with dragons doesn’t mean she can talk to them. She can feel them and what they’re feeling/seeing but the connection is still very much one that she needs to decipher each dragon.
The spice 🌶️ I felt took a little bit of a step back this book. It’s still there but didn’t feel as passionate as in book 1. It’s still the element of sneaking around and having to battle through other circumstances but while I enjoyed watching Sterling step into more of his feelings for Lark, I was hoping for a biiiiit more.
We didn’t see really a lot of the side characters from book 1 that I grew to love, Abel, Nick, and Theo, but because of the setting change, I expected that and hope to see them in book 3. I did love the addition of Agnar and Blair. Love those 2! ❤️ always gotta love the best friend sidekicks.
Once again, Nina shocked me with a few things that happened there at the end but even at the beginning too. Things I did not see coming.
I’m excited for book 3!
2🌶️
It’s been so hard to put this series down. Book 1 gave you more of a Fourth Wing vibe but book 2 went more to what I would consider traditional romantasy setting: court.
Book 2 picks off right where book 1 ended, with Lark being abducted by Sterling to Tierne, to find out he’s actually Prince Knox of Tierne. Brought before his brother, King Jasper, Lark walks the line of utter anger at being brought here and curiosity to find out more about her true heritage. She also begins to grow her connection with the dragons and embrace her true dragon caller destiny. But with it, comes a mysterious danger lurking and a prophecy she can’t quite understand. All this, while battling with a King who’s obsessed to have her and a Prince who already does.
I loved the character growth of Lark in this book. To see her come into her powers and connection with the dragons was fun to read. I also like that for once, the connection with dragons doesn’t mean she can talk to them. She can feel them and what they’re feeling/seeing but the connection is still very much one that she needs to decipher each dragon.
The spice 🌶️ I felt took a little bit of a step back this book. It’s still there but didn’t feel as passionate as in book 1. It’s still the element of sneaking around and having to battle through other circumstances but while I enjoyed watching Sterling step into more of his feelings for Lark, I was hoping for a biiiiit more.
We didn’t see really a lot of the side characters from book 1 that I grew to love, Abel, Nick, and Theo, but because of the setting change, I expected that and hope to see them in book 3. I did love the addition of Agnar and Blair. Love those 2! ❤️ always gotta love the best friend sidekicks.
Once again, Nina shocked me with a few things that happened there at the end but even at the beginning too. Things I did not see coming.
I’m excited for book 3!
August 30, 2025
I just don't know what to think about this book, or the entire series.
There is so much that could be better. The editing is awful. A lot of mistakes. And sometimes the writing just does not make sense. In one moment, Lark is at one side of the room. And the next (like the next sentence not the next page or chapter) she is somewhere else. It feels like a lot of actions are missing. It makes the story annoying to read.
Then there is the fact that the worldbuilding is still flat, the characters have no depth whatsoever and a lot of actions do not make sense. Why does Lark not spend more time with Leesa? The supposedly only one she trusts. Why does she not have a conversation with her mother? Why does she barely care about Olive... I mean she got the girl killed. But no, forget all that and focus on the boy.
So like I said, a lot that could be better.
BUT, i am still intrigued, mostly because of the dragons and how the bond works. So different then what we normally see. So I will try book three. Also because the books are pretty short (which is probably part of the problem).
There is so much that could be better. The editing is awful. A lot of mistakes. And sometimes the writing just does not make sense. In one moment, Lark is at one side of the room. And the next (like the next sentence not the next page or chapter) she is somewhere else. It feels like a lot of actions are missing. It makes the story annoying to read.
Then there is the fact that the worldbuilding is still flat, the characters have no depth whatsoever and a lot of actions do not make sense. Why does Lark not spend more time with Leesa? The supposedly only one she trusts. Why does she not have a conversation with her mother? Why does she barely care about Olive... I mean she got the girl killed. But no, forget all that and focus on the boy.
So like I said, a lot that could be better.
BUT, i am still intrigued, mostly because of the dragons and how the bond works. So different then what we normally see. So I will try book three. Also because the books are pretty short (which is probably part of the problem).
March 19, 2025
I think 2 and 1/2 stars, rounded up to 3 is extremely generous for this book, I really do.
Look, I know writing a story is a piece of art from the soul, but there's no excuse for the mess that is this novel. The sheer amount of errors, repeated or missing words or sentences were so numerous I was honestly gobsmacked. Is the reader supposed to try and glean what the author MEANT to write? Because there were times I had to do exactly that. If I, tiny little fan-fiction hobby writer that I am, can take the time and effort to proofread and edit a story so any reader will enjoy the tale, then a PAID AUTHOR absolutely needs to hire a competent editor to do the same.
Taking money for an unedited mess of a story not only shows a lack of respect for your paying customers, but a lack of pride and care in your own work. And that's just sad.
Look, I know writing a story is a piece of art from the soul, but there's no excuse for the mess that is this novel. The sheer amount of errors, repeated or missing words or sentences were so numerous I was honestly gobsmacked. Is the reader supposed to try and glean what the author MEANT to write? Because there were times I had to do exactly that. If I, tiny little fan-fiction hobby writer that I am, can take the time and effort to proofread and edit a story so any reader will enjoy the tale, then a PAID AUTHOR absolutely needs to hire a competent editor to do the same.
Taking money for an unedited mess of a story not only shows a lack of respect for your paying customers, but a lack of pride and care in your own work. And that's just sad.
March 16, 2025
The second installment of the Dragons of Tirene series is an emotional whirlwind, packed with everything a fantasy lover could want — dragons, forbidden romance, betrayal, and a fierce heroine on a journey of self-discovery.
Lark's transformation is truly something to behold. She evolves from a quiet, uncertain figure into a powerful force, navigating treacherous political waters while holding onto her fiery spirit and sarcastic wit. Her bond with the dragons, particularly as she explores her newfound abilities, is one of the most captivating parts of the story. It’s impossible not to root for her, even as she faces impossible choices — like her forced betrothal to a king she despises while her heart still belongs to Sterling.
Speaking of Sterling, his journey from betrayal to redemption is layered and gut-wrenching. The tension between him and Lark simmers deliciously, and their stolen moments are filled with aching vulnerability and undeniable chemistry. Knox, the broody, possessive counterpart, brings a whole new level of complexity to the dynamic. The love triangle (if you can even call it that) feels raw and real, never veering into cliché territory.
Frost’s world-building continues to impress, painting a vivid picture of two kingdoms not just separated by land, but by ideology — from how they treat their people to how they revere (or exploit) their dragons. The political intrigue is as thrilling as the romance, and the pacing balances action, tension, and emotional depth beautifully.
The last 10% of the book is an emotional rollercoaster, culminating in a cliffhanger that left me gutted and desperate for the next book. Jasper’s fate hit particularly hard after his character development throughout this story. I’m also eager to see more of the side characters — they’re so well-developed that they deserve stories of their own.
If you love:
🐉 Dragons
🔥 Enemies to lovers
💔 Forbidden romance
💪 Badass, sarcastic heroines
🏰 Political intrigue
✨ Elemental magic
…then this series needs to be on your TBR immediately.
Favorite quote:
"My rebirth has not finished. I sense a transformation within, a metamorphosis not yet complete but inexorably underway."
This line perfectly encapsulates Lark’s journey — and, let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt this way while trying to figure out where they truly belong?
The only downside for me? The occasional Americanisms pulled me out of the immersive fantasy setting now and then. But even that wasn’t enough to dull my love for this book.
I am beyond grateful to follow Lark’s journey. Now… where’s book three? Because I am not okay after that ending!
🖤Length: 361 Pages
🖤Genre: Romantsy
🖤Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤Violence: 🔥🔥🔥
🖤Editing: Nothing that pulled me from the story
🖤Series: Dragons of Tirene Book 2
🖤Ending: Cliffhanger
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lark's transformation is truly something to behold. She evolves from a quiet, uncertain figure into a powerful force, navigating treacherous political waters while holding onto her fiery spirit and sarcastic wit. Her bond with the dragons, particularly as she explores her newfound abilities, is one of the most captivating parts of the story. It’s impossible not to root for her, even as she faces impossible choices — like her forced betrothal to a king she despises while her heart still belongs to Sterling.
Speaking of Sterling, his journey from betrayal to redemption is layered and gut-wrenching. The tension between him and Lark simmers deliciously, and their stolen moments are filled with aching vulnerability and undeniable chemistry. Knox, the broody, possessive counterpart, brings a whole new level of complexity to the dynamic. The love triangle (if you can even call it that) feels raw and real, never veering into cliché territory.
Frost’s world-building continues to impress, painting a vivid picture of two kingdoms not just separated by land, but by ideology — from how they treat their people to how they revere (or exploit) their dragons. The political intrigue is as thrilling as the romance, and the pacing balances action, tension, and emotional depth beautifully.
The last 10% of the book is an emotional rollercoaster, culminating in a cliffhanger that left me gutted and desperate for the next book. Jasper’s fate hit particularly hard after his character development throughout this story. I’m also eager to see more of the side characters — they’re so well-developed that they deserve stories of their own.
If you love:
🐉 Dragons
🔥 Enemies to lovers
💔 Forbidden romance
💪 Badass, sarcastic heroines
🏰 Political intrigue
✨ Elemental magic
…then this series needs to be on your TBR immediately.
Favorite quote:
"My rebirth has not finished. I sense a transformation within, a metamorphosis not yet complete but inexorably underway."
This line perfectly encapsulates Lark’s journey — and, let’s be honest, who hasn’t felt this way while trying to figure out where they truly belong?
The only downside for me? The occasional Americanisms pulled me out of the immersive fantasy setting now and then. But even that wasn’t enough to dull my love for this book.
I am beyond grateful to follow Lark’s journey. Now… where’s book three? Because I am not okay after that ending!
🖤Length: 361 Pages
🖤Genre: Romantsy
🖤Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
🖤Violence: 🔥🔥🔥
🖤Editing: Nothing that pulled me from the story
🖤Series: Dragons of Tirene Book 2
🖤Ending: Cliffhanger
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 6, 2025
I love that there’s a description at the start of the book. With so many books out there and having read so much this year, it just reminds you how much you liked the previous one.
I really enjoy the writing and found this so easy to read. I absolutely devoured the first one, but for some reason I didn’t love this one quite as much.
Sterling and Larks journey through this book was well written, I liked that she didn’t forgive him really quickly and focused on her new surroundings. I would have liked to see more of her sister as the first book focused on her going missing and it almost felt like she just got over that instantly.
The last 10% really amped up and I really wasn’t expecting the ending. Especially for Jasper after his character throughout the book.
I think it sets the next one up nicely. I really hope it is a trilogy and not longer than that. I feel like the story is interesting but a third and final book would be good but much longer and it will be too drawn out.
There are interesting characters and it would be good to see a book explore those others further.
I did really enjoy the book and the way the story is progressing. There’s a good focus on character development and plot building without rushing it too much or dragging it out.
I am looking forward to the next one.
Thank you to Nina and her team for my arc copy of the book.
I really enjoy the writing and found this so easy to read. I absolutely devoured the first one, but for some reason I didn’t love this one quite as much.
Sterling and Larks journey through this book was well written, I liked that she didn’t forgive him really quickly and focused on her new surroundings. I would have liked to see more of her sister as the first book focused on her going missing and it almost felt like she just got over that instantly.
The last 10% really amped up and I really wasn’t expecting the ending. Especially for Jasper after his character throughout the book.
I think it sets the next one up nicely. I really hope it is a trilogy and not longer than that. I feel like the story is interesting but a third and final book would be good but much longer and it will be too drawn out.
There are interesting characters and it would be good to see a book explore those others further.
I did really enjoy the book and the way the story is progressing. There’s a good focus on character development and plot building without rushing it too much or dragging it out.
I am looking forward to the next one.
Thank you to Nina and her team for my arc copy of the book.
March 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really, really enjoyed this story. This story has literally everything. It has tension and emotional turmoil from Sterling's betrayal, redemption and forgiveness for Sterling, forbidden romance and stolen moments, Lark's forced betrothal to Knox's brother the king, and an underlying enemy the prophecy tried to warn us about.
The world building was so immersive. I not only was able to picture The differences between the two kingdoms, not only in their building structures, but also the underlying political differences highlighted by how they treated their people and kept their dragons.
The slow burn of Knox and Lark rebuilding their relationship through stolen moments, even under his brother's watchful eye was great.. His multiple reassurances from the very beginning that what they had was real had me kicking my feet. Watching Knox be vulnerable in ways that he wasn't able to be in the first book was probably my favorite. And beginning to understand his relationship with his brother and why he followed his orders in the first place.
Sterling and Lark are a force to be reckoned with, and I cannot...... I can NOT wait to see what happens next.
Thank you Nina Frost for an ARC of this book!
🐉forced proximity
🐉forbidden romance
🐉ancient prophecy fufillment
🐉badass fmc
🐉grumpy broody mmc
🐉dragons
🐉elemental magic
“I know I put you through all kinds of shit with the lies and bringing you here. And now you’re supposed to marry my brother, and that fucking terrifies me. Just the mere thought of you being with another man, my brother or otherwise, drives me crazy. We’re in one hell of a mess, but once we get out of it, I’m going to hold onto you, and I’m never letting you go. I’ll do whatever it takes to prove to you that what we had was real.”
“Like I told you before, things are… complicated. I love my brother, and that will never change. But my loyalty? That’s with Tirene… and with you.”
“While your dress is beautiful, I think it would look better on the floor.”
I really, really enjoyed this story. This story has literally everything. It has tension and emotional turmoil from Sterling's betrayal, redemption and forgiveness for Sterling, forbidden romance and stolen moments, Lark's forced betrothal to Knox's brother the king, and an underlying enemy the prophecy tried to warn us about.
The world building was so immersive. I not only was able to picture The differences between the two kingdoms, not only in their building structures, but also the underlying political differences highlighted by how they treated their people and kept their dragons.
The slow burn of Knox and Lark rebuilding their relationship through stolen moments, even under his brother's watchful eye was great.. His multiple reassurances from the very beginning that what they had was real had me kicking my feet. Watching Knox be vulnerable in ways that he wasn't able to be in the first book was probably my favorite. And beginning to understand his relationship with his brother and why he followed his orders in the first place.
Sterling and Lark are a force to be reckoned with, and I cannot...... I can NOT wait to see what happens next.
Thank you Nina Frost for an ARC of this book!
🐉forced proximity
🐉forbidden romance
🐉ancient prophecy fufillment
🐉badass fmc
🐉grumpy broody mmc
🐉dragons
🐉elemental magic
“I know I put you through all kinds of shit with the lies and bringing you here. And now you’re supposed to marry my brother, and that fucking terrifies me. Just the mere thought of you being with another man, my brother or otherwise, drives me crazy. We’re in one hell of a mess, but once we get out of it, I’m going to hold onto you, and I’m never letting you go. I’ll do whatever it takes to prove to you that what we had was real.”
“Like I told you before, things are… complicated. I love my brother, and that will never change. But my loyalty? That’s with Tirene… and with you.”
“While your dress is beautiful, I think it would look better on the floor.”
August 10, 2025
Nina has done it again guys! If you want a fast paced read that is a page turner, then look no further on this series because this one was good!
The second book Court of Secrets and Flames takes off where we left off in book 1 where you see more of the characters developing which i absolutely loved. I love to see more character development especially when it comes to series.
This part is a tad spoiler but i enjoyed seeing Lark bond with her dragons more in this book and the found family in here is also so nice so I’m glad we got to see more of that as well in book 2.
You also get a little more spice between Lark and Sterling in here which I was all here for especially you see their relationship grow in here after what happened at the end of book 1
What I appreciate about this Author is that in book 2, Nina put a summary in the beginning of the book to summarize a little of what happened in book 1 and now picking it back up in book 2 and I appreciate this from authors cause I tend to forget easily what happens in books especially when it comes to series so I really liked that as it brought my memory back right away.
Thank you so much to Nina for the gifted copy of book 2 and I can’t wait to read book 3 soon!
The second book Court of Secrets and Flames takes off where we left off in book 1 where you see more of the characters developing which i absolutely loved. I love to see more character development especially when it comes to series.
This part is a tad spoiler but i enjoyed seeing Lark bond with her dragons more in this book and the found family in here is also so nice so I’m glad we got to see more of that as well in book 2.
You also get a little more spice between Lark and Sterling in here which I was all here for especially you see their relationship grow in here after what happened at the end of book 1
What I appreciate about this Author is that in book 2, Nina put a summary in the beginning of the book to summarize a little of what happened in book 1 and now picking it back up in book 2 and I appreciate this from authors cause I tend to forget easily what happens in books especially when it comes to series so I really liked that as it brought my memory back right away.
Thank you so much to Nina for the gifted copy of book 2 and I can’t wait to read book 3 soon!
November 12, 2025
Okay, so I really tried… but it just didn’t work for me. I actually really liked the first book — it had a fun plot, interesting characters to discover, an academy full of secrets, and a slow-burn romance I enjoyed. Sure, it felt a bit YA at times, with some rushed scenes and a romance that was a little too on-and-off for my taste, but I figured, hey, it’s a debut — maybe the next books will be more polished.
Well… that was a big mistake.
Book two was even worse than the first. There were so many inconsistent scenes (for example they’re in an open-air arena, start kissing, and then he closes the door — what door??), dragons that barely show up (and she’s supposed to be a dragoncaller!), poorly built relationships (I honestly laughed at every Lark and the king interaction — it was that awkward), and a main character who completely lost any depth. She felt bland, with no real personality or growth — just… flat.
It’s a real shame, because there was a lot of potential in the plot. But the writing just didn’t deliver, and I completely lost patience. I ended up DNF-ing the series.
Well… that was a big mistake.
Book two was even worse than the first. There were so many inconsistent scenes (for example they’re in an open-air arena, start kissing, and then he closes the door — what door??), dragons that barely show up (and she’s supposed to be a dragoncaller!), poorly built relationships (I honestly laughed at every Lark and the king interaction — it was that awkward), and a main character who completely lost any depth. She felt bland, with no real personality or growth — just… flat.
It’s a real shame, because there was a lot of potential in the plot. But the writing just didn’t deliver, and I completely lost patience. I ended up DNF-ing the series.
August 20, 2025
Okay now you’re probably thinking “Katie you didn’t like the first book why did you read the second one” GREAT QUESTION.
I thought it would get better. Jokes on me. This was not the best at all. It was one of those books where you could skim it and still could tell what was happening but like also not really??? There were so many weird jumps in conversations and in scenes so if you blinked, you’d miss wtf happened. There were important conversations happening at the worst time. Like why are the king and prince having a hush hush conversation about marriage when there is a legit battle happening outside ???
These people are suppose to be in their 20s and I feel like they’re talking like they just graduated from junior high. The plot is so so good. Like there was so much potential and this was just not it UGH
I thought it would get better. Jokes on me. This was not the best at all. It was one of those books where you could skim it and still could tell what was happening but like also not really??? There were so many weird jumps in conversations and in scenes so if you blinked, you’d miss wtf happened. There were important conversations happening at the worst time. Like why are the king and prince having a hush hush conversation about marriage when there is a legit battle happening outside ???
These people are suppose to be in their 20s and I feel like they’re talking like they just graduated from junior high. The plot is so so good. Like there was so much potential and this was just not it UGH
December 17, 2025
Book 2 picks up right where Book 1 left off. Lark is kidnapped by the one person she trusted most—Instructor Sterling Thorne—and taken from the trial games at Flighthaven to Tirene. There, she finds herself in yet another gilded cage, a supposed guest of King Jasper, but with little freedom to come and go. As she struggles to navigate this new reality, Lark also wrestles with her feelings for Sterling, whose betrayal cuts deep. He isn’t who she thought he was—he’s the King’s brother, sent undercover to Flighthaven to befriend her and bring her to Tirene. Was she just a pawn in his game, or is there more to the story?
Lark’s world shatters as the truth about her childhood comes to light. Everything she believed about herself is a lie—she is a dragoncaller, and now a weapon for Tirene. This installment explores her complicated relationships in Tirene, her emotional reunion with her sister, and her relentless quest for answers.
The narrative feels sharper in this book, though the pacing is a bit slow at times. King Jasper’s behavior is frustrating and poorly explained, leaving his motives unclear. Similarly, the love-hate dynamic between Lark and Sterling lacks depth; their emotions swing too abruptly, making the relationship feel rushed and inconsistent.
What truly shines are the moments focused on Lark’s bond with dragons and her growing mastery of her powers. These scenes are captivating and add richness to the story. The climax is well done leading to a powerful and unexpected ending that leaves you eager for Book 3.
Lark’s world shatters as the truth about her childhood comes to light. Everything she believed about herself is a lie—she is a dragoncaller, and now a weapon for Tirene. This installment explores her complicated relationships in Tirene, her emotional reunion with her sister, and her relentless quest for answers.
The narrative feels sharper in this book, though the pacing is a bit slow at times. King Jasper’s behavior is frustrating and poorly explained, leaving his motives unclear. Similarly, the love-hate dynamic between Lark and Sterling lacks depth; their emotions swing too abruptly, making the relationship feel rushed and inconsistent.
What truly shines are the moments focused on Lark’s bond with dragons and her growing mastery of her powers. These scenes are captivating and add richness to the story. The climax is well done leading to a powerful and unexpected ending that leaves you eager for Book 3.
September 30, 2025
I really wanted to give this book a better rating, with the first book being so good and it starting out well, but I honestly just couldn’t.
This needs some very heavy editing and proofing. There was a lot that didn’t make sense and/or felt out of place. And the last five chapters just felt like an unedited brain dump.
I will be reading the next book still, as this scratched enough of my Fourth Wing itch and I think it gets better, but I definitely need a palate-cleanser in between sadly. There’s such good bones here! I hope it gets some editing love so it can be the book it was meant to be!
This needs some very heavy editing and proofing. There was a lot that didn’t make sense and/or felt out of place. And the last five chapters just felt like an unedited brain dump.
I will be reading the next book still, as this scratched enough of my Fourth Wing itch and I think it gets better, but I definitely need a palate-cleanser in between sadly. There’s such good bones here! I hope it gets some editing love so it can be the book it was meant to be!
March 14, 2025
Second installment in the Dragons of Tirene series and once again, it leaves you in a nerve wracking cliffhanger, so be prepared.
I was so happy coming back to Lark's story. The banter between her and Sterling, um, sorry, Knox, is so good. This time we come back to another territory, a lot of secrets and an ambiguous prophecy. I loved seeing the ongoing growth of Lark as a dragoncaller and her affinity with each creature. In this second installment of the series there are new side characters introduced that I hope we'll get to see more in the next book. This story has a steady pacing with a 40/60 action and romance plot. We learn more about the prophecy our protagonist is a part of and about an evil that has been lurking in the lands of Tirene (but we still need to learn a lot more).
I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait for the next one. Thank you Author Nina Frost for this amazing ARC!
I was so happy coming back to Lark's story. The banter between her and Sterling, um, sorry, Knox, is so good. This time we come back to another territory, a lot of secrets and an ambiguous prophecy. I loved seeing the ongoing growth of Lark as a dragoncaller and her affinity with each creature. In this second installment of the series there are new side characters introduced that I hope we'll get to see more in the next book. This story has a steady pacing with a 40/60 action and romance plot. We learn more about the prophecy our protagonist is a part of and about an evil that has been lurking in the lands of Tirene (but we still need to learn a lot more).
I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait for the next one. Thank you Author Nina Frost for this amazing ARC!
March 9, 2025
I was lucky to get an ARC copy of this book.
I love this story. I loved book 1. I can't wait to see where the series goes.
Honestly the first 60% was a lot of world building history. Low on the fun romance. It was a bit slow. But the bread crumbs we got were great. I loved how the sexual tension was written. I think that's often underappreciated. And once Lark and Sterling finally got together it was brilliant.
There was enough foreshadowing that the ending wasn't completely surprising. But I did love the ending.
There was one thing that drove me absolutely crazy. Lark calling the MMC, Sterling and Knox out loud and in her head throughout. Back and forth sometimes in the same thought. * I understand the why, it still drove me crazy.
I love this story. I loved book 1. I can't wait to see where the series goes.
Honestly the first 60% was a lot of world building history. Low on the fun romance. It was a bit slow. But the bread crumbs we got were great. I loved how the sexual tension was written. I think that's often underappreciated. And once Lark and Sterling finally got together it was brilliant.
There was enough foreshadowing that the ending wasn't completely surprising. But I did love the ending.
There was one thing that drove me absolutely crazy. Lark calling the MMC, Sterling and Knox out loud and in her head throughout. Back and forth sometimes in the same thought. * I understand the why, it still drove me crazy.
September 2, 2025
Where is the plot? Like what is this writing? I was way too generous with rating book 1 and this is for sure a 2 star read, almost a DNF but I powered through - only reason this is not 1 star is because I did enjoy some of it - maybe 25%.
I definitely will not be finishing this series and don’t want to waste anymore time on it.
I definitely will not be finishing this series and don’t want to waste anymore time on it.
May 7, 2025
The book picks up after the first book. A lot is revealed on Lark's heritage and family. I don't want to reveil too much.. There was some missing information and logic in the chapter sequence.. but overall, the story was fantastic, and growth in Larks' character.
Sterling / Knox is a dreamboat ❤️
And of corse - Dragons 🐲🐲🐲🐲
Sterling / Knox is a dreamboat ❤️
And of corse - Dragons 🐲🐲🐲🐲
June 3, 2025
I guess this one was slightly better than the first. Im really hoping some of these storylines get resolved in the last book. If not, I'll be big mad at these characters. I just dont understand why some characters' actions dont make sense (are they shady, re they not?)
June 8, 2025
Preferred the first book but this was still an enjoyable, easy read. 3.5 I’d say! Ending was so rushed and a bit out of the blue, feel like it didn’t flow as well as it could have but overall I still had… a good time ✨ ps. I was happy to have more dragon content 🐉🥰🥰
July 1, 2025
This went unfortunately into a direction I didn’t like and all the exciting storylines that were being built up in book 1 somehow felt forgotten. I did think there was a lot of potential in the story but turned out to not really meet my expectations in the end :(
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