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A Royal Arrangement #1
Courting the Dragon Prince
Forced to marry for peace. Can two wounded warriors find love with their enemy?
Onyx despises the dragons. They invaded his people’s lands, started the war, and killed his sister. Now, to secure peace, the heir to the Grey Mountains must marry a dragon prince. But of all the princes, why does it have to be him—Prince Luther, a man Onyx hated at first sight? Luther may be handsome, but he is everything Onyx is not: a reckless flirt, a shameless drunk, and utterly irresponsible. Still, Onyx will do his duty and marry a man he despises—for his kingdom and for peace.
But Prince Luther hides a different kind of battle beneath his carefree façade. Haunted by the horrors of war, he tries to drown his pain. And whilst most accept the illusion Luther crafts, Onyx’s sneering gaze seems to penetrate the lies and see the broken mess Luther has become. Luther can’t stand the arrogant, haughty earth elemental. But Luther’s father has commanded he will marry Onyx.
Two warriors, forced together by duty and sacrifice, both carrying the scars of war. Can they overcome hatred and mistrust to find love with each other? Or will their marriage unravel, bringing a return to war and bloodshed?
Onyx despises the dragons. They invaded his people’s lands, started the war, and killed his sister. Now, to secure peace, the heir to the Grey Mountains must marry a dragon prince. But of all the princes, why does it have to be him—Prince Luther, a man Onyx hated at first sight? Luther may be handsome, but he is everything Onyx is not: a reckless flirt, a shameless drunk, and utterly irresponsible. Still, Onyx will do his duty and marry a man he despises—for his kingdom and for peace.
But Prince Luther hides a different kind of battle beneath his carefree façade. Haunted by the horrors of war, he tries to drown his pain. And whilst most accept the illusion Luther crafts, Onyx’s sneering gaze seems to penetrate the lies and see the broken mess Luther has become. Luther can’t stand the arrogant, haughty earth elemental. But Luther’s father has commanded he will marry Onyx.
Two warriors, forced together by duty and sacrifice, both carrying the scars of war. Can they overcome hatred and mistrust to find love with each other? Or will their marriage unravel, bringing a return to war and bloodshed?
478 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2025
69 people are currently reading
184 people want to read
About the author
Gigi Rivers
28 books78 followersGigi spent her childhood daydreaming and living inside the imaginary worlds in her mind. As an author, she now shares these worlds with her readers.
Born and raised in Australia, she now resides in Berlin, Germany. She is mixed race, being half-Filipino and part Welsh. She is a traveller, potter, gym enthusiast, nature and animal lover, an avid consumer of stories, and now, a writer.
Gigi writes mm fantasy romance. Her debut series is A Naiad Romance.
Born and raised in Australia, she now resides in Berlin, Germany. She is mixed race, being half-Filipino and part Welsh. She is a traveller, potter, gym enthusiast, nature and animal lover, an avid consumer of stories, and now, a writer.
Gigi writes mm fantasy romance. Her debut series is A Naiad Romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
March 25, 2026
3.5**** stars
Well. I’d call this A Solid Try. And because I think a fantasy book is always a little harder to pull off than a contemporary I’m rounding up.
The idea for the story was good - for the whole series even. Because the kingdom of the Dragons was the one starting and waging war on their five neighboring countries in an effort of a peace treaty now eight members of dragon royalty have to marry into royalty of the five former enemy kingdoms.
It sure makes for some delicious setups. In this one we have two princes who both fought in the war, both losing significantly to the other. This was very personal and of course I gobbled it up!
So Prince Luther Drachen of the Kingdom of Draconia and Warden Onyx Obsidian of the Kingdom of the Grey Mountains (I despise the choice of names here!!) sure had their difficulties. And while they had some serious heartbreaking and also heartfelt moments I did not quite buy into their shared I-love-you’s. Did I believe they were falling in love despite all of it? Yes. But for truly being in love I think this would’ve taken a bit more.
I longed for a bit more hurt/comfort I could actually feel but not quite did.
I also think this book didn’t need to be this long despite my complaint that there was something missing. Even more pages probably wouldn’t have solved this. I also didn’t like (and I know this is a personal preference) the feeling of foreboding. I like a cutthroat twist I didn’t see coming but anticipating a villain, not trusting any (side)character and their motivations had me annoyed. AND THE VILLAIN SPEECH. Bahahahaha. I didn’t know whether to laugh or roll my eyes. omg. They just never learn!
Anyways, I’m looking forward to the next book (and def the one after that) even though knowing I will probably end up speed-reading a lot of it too. *lol
************
A Royal Arrangement Series
Book 0.5 - Courting the Dragon Lord
Book 1 - Courting the Dragon Prince - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Courting the Dragon Warrior - tbr
Book 3 - Courting the Dragon King - release 03/27
“I almost forgot what you were.” Onyx sneered. “A dragon. A monstrous, bloodthirsty beast […]”
Well. I’d call this A Solid Try. And because I think a fantasy book is always a little harder to pull off than a contemporary I’m rounding up.
The idea for the story was good - for the whole series even. Because the kingdom of the Dragons was the one starting and waging war on their five neighboring countries in an effort of a peace treaty now eight members of dragon royalty have to marry into royalty of the five former enemy kingdoms.
It sure makes for some delicious setups. In this one we have two princes who both fought in the war, both losing significantly to the other. This was very personal and of course I gobbled it up!
It seemed the worst day of Luther’s life was probably also the worst day of Onyx’s.
So Prince Luther Drachen of the Kingdom of Draconia and Warden Onyx Obsidian of the Kingdom of the Grey Mountains (I despise the choice of names here!!) sure had their difficulties. And while they had some serious heartbreaking and also heartfelt moments I did not quite buy into their shared I-love-you’s. Did I believe they were falling in love despite all of it? Yes. But for truly being in love I think this would’ve taken a bit more.
I longed for a bit more hurt/comfort I could actually feel but not quite did.
“I am trying … I am … doing my best.” Why isn’t that ever enough?
I also think this book didn’t need to be this long despite my complaint that there was something missing. Even more pages probably wouldn’t have solved this. I also didn’t like (and I know this is a personal preference) the feeling of foreboding. I like a cutthroat twist I didn’t see coming but anticipating a villain, not trusting any (side)character and their motivations had me annoyed. AND THE VILLAIN SPEECH. Bahahahaha. I didn’t know whether to laugh or roll my eyes. omg. They just never learn!
Anyways, I’m looking forward to the next book (and def the one after that) even though knowing I will probably end up speed-reading a lot of it too. *lol
************
A Royal Arrangement Series
Book 0.5 - Courting the Dragon Lord
Book 1 - Courting the Dragon Prince - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Courting the Dragon Warrior - tbr
Book 3 - Courting the Dragon King - release 03/27
December 28, 2025
ARC review
Loved this book.
The whole enemies to lovers thing was so well done. They hated each other but they couldn't help their attraction to the other.
Luther seemed like a spoiled brat but that was just the image he passed to other people. He was suffering and he had that image for so long that it was his fallback.
Onyx saw through him. Not at the beggining but eventually he realized that the person he portrayed wasn't the real one.
They helped each other a lot, they both grew as a person alongside each other.
I loved them, the chemistry was off the charts and their banter was awesome
Loved this book.
The whole enemies to lovers thing was so well done. They hated each other but they couldn't help their attraction to the other.
Luther seemed like a spoiled brat but that was just the image he passed to other people. He was suffering and he had that image for so long that it was his fallback.
Onyx saw through him. Not at the beggining but eventually he realized that the person he portrayed wasn't the real one.
They helped each other a lot, they both grew as a person alongside each other.
I loved them, the chemistry was off the charts and their banter was awesome
March 30, 2025
I loved it, and I loved it a lot more than I expected. I was kind of weary of an enemies to lovers book because I'm very picky with those but dragons and magic swayed me. And to me, this is enemies to lovers made well. There is more to them developing feelings aside from "oh no, he's hot", and an actual reason for them to hate each other at first, both internal and external. The escalation of the conflict was also great.
I'm impressed, and even more excited for the next book of this series
I'm impressed, and even more excited for the next book of this series
Read
September 29, 2025No rating.
I wanted to DNF at 16%.
I made it to 21% and then gave up.
The writing is simplistic and repetitive, the characters feel stilted, and the plot so far hasn’t raised any interest to keep going.
Luther, trauma or not, behaves like a toddler in a temper tantrum. He is really annoying not only his husband to be, but me, too! And Onyx, whilst all very dutiful and seemingly a nice guy, seems a tad judgemental.
I could not believe when out of nowhere these two guys are kissing and having sex. Argh! And not even the fact that this is supposedly hate sex helped. It felt all wrong.
Nope, not for me.
I wanted to DNF at 16%.
I made it to 21% and then gave up.
The writing is simplistic and repetitive, the characters feel stilted, and the plot so far hasn’t raised any interest to keep going.
Luther, trauma or not, behaves like a toddler in a temper tantrum. He is really annoying not only his husband to be, but me, too! And Onyx, whilst all very dutiful and seemingly a nice guy, seems a tad judgemental.
I could not believe when out of nowhere these two guys are kissing and having sex. Argh! And not even the fact that this is supposedly hate sex helped. It felt all wrong.
Nope, not for me.
April 29, 2025
Onyx & Luther
Rating: 3.9 ⭐
- Arranged Marriage
- Opposites Attract
- Royalty
- Enemies to Lovers
- Hurt/Comfort
- Earth Elemental Prince
- Dragon Prince
This is book one of the series and I would definitely read the prequel before this so you know what they're talking about, since it happened right before this story. I love dragon stories, so I was in from the beginning. After a 20yr war between the dragons and the mages they have agreed to peace with an alliance. This alliance requires 8 marriages between their people to seal the deal. Warden Onyx and Prince Luther are marriage number 2!
Both Onyx and Luther fought in the war and lost people close to them. One is angry and the other is haunted by everything that happened. When these two get matched for marriage there is a lot of animosity. Onyx makes assumptions rather quickly about Luther and the way he treats/speaks to his soon to be husband causes Luther to lash out and misbehave. They have immediate chemistry, which irks Onyx to no end. They are bound by duty and even if they can't get along, they can at least enjoy each other bodies, right?
Reading these two personalities clash then find their way to meld was wonderfully done. It does take a while for these two to start understanding where the other is coming from and how their initial assessments of each other were woefully incorrect. These two really needed the other to help them heal from their wounds of war. I was able to parse out the main villain quickly, but that's just me. The way it was revealed and handled had me cheering for the couple to come out victorious.
A few of their conversations were repeated but worded slightly different, so that threw me here and there while reading the story. I wanted to shake some sense into both of them multiple times, yet enjoyed the push and pull between them. We also get glimpses of the future couples in this alliance and I can't wait to read their stories as well.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults (including spanking)
- Explicit language
- Drinking to cope and self-medication using fictional drug
- Parental addiction to fictional drug (sedative)
- War themes
- Depressive symptoms and self-hatred
- PTSD
- Grief and survivor's guilt
- Flashbacks and nightmares regarding familial deaths
- Insomnia
- Mentions of death and destruction during wartime (past)
- Mentions death of family members (past; off-page)
- Treason
- Attempted murder, regicide, and nepoticide
- Violence and death during a fight (on-page)
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: HFN
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: Yes,
Ages: 27 & Not given, but similar
Rating: 3.9 ⭐
- Arranged Marriage
- Opposites Attract
- Royalty
- Enemies to Lovers
- Hurt/Comfort
- Earth Elemental Prince
- Dragon Prince
This is book one of the series and I would definitely read the prequel before this so you know what they're talking about, since it happened right before this story. I love dragon stories, so I was in from the beginning. After a 20yr war between the dragons and the mages they have agreed to peace with an alliance. This alliance requires 8 marriages between their people to seal the deal. Warden Onyx and Prince Luther are marriage number 2!
Both Onyx and Luther fought in the war and lost people close to them. One is angry and the other is haunted by everything that happened. When these two get matched for marriage there is a lot of animosity. Onyx makes assumptions rather quickly about Luther and the way he treats/speaks to his soon to be husband causes Luther to lash out and misbehave. They have immediate chemistry, which irks Onyx to no end. They are bound by duty and even if they can't get along, they can at least enjoy each other bodies, right?
Reading these two personalities clash then find their way to meld was wonderfully done. It does take a while for these two to start understanding where the other is coming from and how their initial assessments of each other were woefully incorrect. These two really needed the other to help them heal from their wounds of war. I was able to parse out the main villain quickly, but that's just me. The way it was revealed and handled had me cheering for the couple to come out victorious.
A few of their conversations were repeated but worded slightly different, so that threw me here and there while reading the story. I wanted to shake some sense into both of them multiple times, yet enjoyed the push and pull between them. We also get glimpses of the future couples in this alliance and I can't wait to read their stories as well.
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults (including spanking)
- Explicit language
- Drinking to cope and self-medication using fictional drug
- Parental addiction to fictional drug (sedative)
- War themes
- Depressive symptoms and self-hatred
- PTSD
- Grief and survivor's guilt
- Flashbacks and nightmares regarding familial deaths
- Insomnia
- Mentions of death and destruction during wartime (past)
- Mentions death of family members (past; off-page)
- Treason
- Attempted murder, regicide, and nepoticide
- Violence and death during a fight (on-page)
I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: HFN
POV: Dual
Breakup: No
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: Yes,
Ages: 27 & Not given, but similar
May 8, 2025
This book was pretty good. I’m not a big fan of enemies-to-lovers books but I like this author so I stuck it out. Luther is a veteran with PSTD, and Onyx has a serious case of imposter syndrome. What better way is there to bond with your recently mortal enemy than shared trauma and a fight to the death against a shared enemy? I kinda had my suspicions, and I have an idea for the accomplice so we’ll have to see!
February 6, 2026
4⭐
Re-read on Feb 2026 to read the next book:
I ended up giving a + to the original review after the fact but on a re-read I think I need to take it away again. This was still very nice but not quite so nice as on the first read.
There's a lot of play on jealousy in this book and I shouldn't like that but I just do. And obviously Luther is brat that likes to annoy Onyx in every other way too.
I remembered the weird racist bonding moment from the first read and it was just as silly this time. (Everyone hates the necromancers and think they're icky, which is somewhat understandable reaction to necromancy, but the openness of everyone's disgust and the total lack of trying to understand them seems very prejudiced.)
I love the hoards of these dragons and the vulnerability of these men.
---------
Original Review:
This is the first properly long book from Gigi Rivers and I didn't really even notice until I checked the word count afterwards: 108K! It really didn't feel that long. The author's writing is really easy to read, sometimes there's maybe just a bit of overexplaining or repetition but it's never jarring (though some of the naming conventions in this book were very on the nose). The stories go down smoothly and I remain engaged.
The earlier series have been quite cosy but still adressing things like social injustice. And only some of her stories have also had a bit of an adventure in them. This series is not that cosy, taking place in a world after a 20 year war. The fantasy setting is larger scale with several different kingdoms and politics in the play and there's definitely much more adventure. But it's still on the lighter side of fantasy adventures. And no worries, despite the new direction the romance is definitely not just a subplot.
I'm a fan of enemies-to-lovers and the two main characters here just love to hate each other. But there is also a quality of comfort in this author's writing where we readers mostly know what we're going to get, so it doesn't get too angsty. Yet the plots are still not completely predictable, and one can (and most likely will) enjoy even the predictable parts. The heroes are flawed but lovely, and both of them have to face some of their own shortcomings during the book.
As an avid fantasy reader I'm rather excited by this series. This book is one of my favourites from the author. It's always wonderful to see authors reaching out from their comfort zone and I'm just happy to be able to read more romantic fantasy adventures.
Re-read on Feb 2026 to read the next book:
I ended up giving a + to the original review after the fact but on a re-read I think I need to take it away again. This was still very nice but not quite so nice as on the first read.
There's a lot of play on jealousy in this book and I shouldn't like that but I just do. And obviously Luther is brat that likes to annoy Onyx in every other way too.
I remembered the weird racist bonding moment from the first read and it was just as silly this time. (Everyone hates the necromancers and think they're icky, which is somewhat understandable reaction to necromancy, but the openness of everyone's disgust and the total lack of trying to understand them seems very prejudiced.)
I love the hoards of these dragons and the vulnerability of these men.
---------
Original Review:
This is the first properly long book from Gigi Rivers and I didn't really even notice until I checked the word count afterwards: 108K! It really didn't feel that long. The author's writing is really easy to read, sometimes there's maybe just a bit of overexplaining or repetition but it's never jarring (though some of the naming conventions in this book were very on the nose). The stories go down smoothly and I remain engaged.
The earlier series have been quite cosy but still adressing things like social injustice. And only some of her stories have also had a bit of an adventure in them. This series is not that cosy, taking place in a world after a 20 year war. The fantasy setting is larger scale with several different kingdoms and politics in the play and there's definitely much more adventure. But it's still on the lighter side of fantasy adventures. And no worries, despite the new direction the romance is definitely not just a subplot.
I'm a fan of enemies-to-lovers and the two main characters here just love to hate each other. But there is also a quality of comfort in this author's writing where we readers mostly know what we're going to get, so it doesn't get too angsty. Yet the plots are still not completely predictable, and one can (and most likely will) enjoy even the predictable parts. The heroes are flawed but lovely, and both of them have to face some of their own shortcomings during the book.
As an avid fantasy reader I'm rather excited by this series. This book is one of my favourites from the author. It's always wonderful to see authors reaching out from their comfort zone and I'm just happy to be able to read more romantic fantasy adventures.
March 26, 2025
“Their union will be part of the eight marriages that will contribute to sealing the peace treaty"
This is book 1 in a new series called A Royal Arrangement by Gigi Rivers. There is also a prequel to book 1 called Courting the Dragon Lord that I can highly recommend. It's not necessary to read it first but you will get to meet some characters that show up in book 1 too. Bonus, it's free on the author's website so grab a copy!!!
This book is spicy, spicy, spicy! This book blew me away! Gigi Rivers outdid herself with this one. She should have been writing about dragons all along, lol. I believe that this is the longest book I've read by this author and I wouldn't want it any other way.
The relationship between these two was everything. This book has it all, angst, strife, treachery, tears, laughter, and a hard won HEA. I had trouble putting this one down and I wasn't ready for it to be over. Hopefully we will see these guys again in future books.
Hurt/comfort, PTSD, enemies to lovers, brings the heat in spades
This is book 1 in a new series called A Royal Arrangement by Gigi Rivers. There is also a prequel to book 1 called Courting the Dragon Lord that I can highly recommend. It's not necessary to read it first but you will get to meet some characters that show up in book 1 too. Bonus, it's free on the author's website so grab a copy!!!
This book is spicy, spicy, spicy! This book blew me away! Gigi Rivers outdid herself with this one. She should have been writing about dragons all along, lol. I believe that this is the longest book I've read by this author and I wouldn't want it any other way.
The relationship between these two was everything. This book has it all, angst, strife, treachery, tears, laughter, and a hard won HEA. I had trouble putting this one down and I wasn't ready for it to be over. Hopefully we will see these guys again in future books.
Hurt/comfort, PTSD, enemies to lovers, brings the heat in spades
March 26, 2025
To be honest, I struggled to read that book at first. I had this feeling that it hit too close to home. In that book, you will find an arranged marriage between two wounded princes. There are fights between them hate, grief, and anger. You will also find confusion, lies, tears, love, so much love and healing. Be aware that there are mentions of D addiction, insomnia, and other heavy topics. Those two themes stayed on my mind the most. I struggled because Luther and Onyx’s relationship as a couple gave me flashbacks of my own experiences. But as I continued to read, I fell in love with them. I laughed, I cried, and I laughed again. I would definitely recommend this enemies-to-lovers story. It’s spicy (a little kinky), but also sweet and so cute. I’m excited to read the next book to complete the whole story. Now, I’m even more invested than I was when I read the prequel.
April 13, 2025
Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rogers is book 1 in the Royal Arrangement series. It follows the novella about Prince Ash and Lord Barrett. This book follows the arranged marriage of Prince Luther of the Dragons and Onyx of the Grey Mountains. Onyx comes into the marriage with a grudge against the dragons who started the war and ended in the death of his sister and destruction of his people’s temple. He had a preconceived notion of who Prince Luther was: spoiled, playboy, and drunk. There were so many layers to this story and I loved it. Onyx was such a jerk at times to Luther and I just wanted to wrap Luther up.
When Onyx allowed himself to look below the surface as to who Luther really was, he realizes that he had been wrong about a lot of things. I loved when they worked together and you could really see when they fell in love. The final conflict made me cry because Onyx said some hurtful things that only emphasized how Luther felt about himself. This was just a really good enemies to lovers fantasy and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
When Onyx allowed himself to look below the surface as to who Luther really was, he realizes that he had been wrong about a lot of things. I loved when they worked together and you could really see when they fell in love. The final conflict made me cry because Onyx said some hurtful things that only emphasized how Luther felt about himself. This was just a really good enemies to lovers fantasy and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
February 21, 2026
Review for (A Royal Arrangement-1) Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rivers
Gigi Rivers did it again with such a well-written world/story about dragons. Who doesn't love dragons? It is about two wounded men who start as enemies of each other. I loved the build-up that Gigi Rivers did to get to the meat of the story. Onyx does not like dragons with a passion. He hates them so much for what they did to his family and lands. His sister was killed during this time, so he has every right to hate those who killed his sister, right? Prince Luther is sexy and hot as it is just being a man, but add that he is a dragon, and he is hot as heck. These two have a lot to get through before they can have the life that they both deserve. It's learning that you can't hate a whole species for what some did. I loved this book; it hit what I look for in a paranormal story that isn't just fluffy. There is meat and pain and learning to live the life they both deserve. I can't wait to read the next one.
Nicole Harvey
Gigi Rivers did it again with such a well-written world/story about dragons. Who doesn't love dragons? It is about two wounded men who start as enemies of each other. I loved the build-up that Gigi Rivers did to get to the meat of the story. Onyx does not like dragons with a passion. He hates them so much for what they did to his family and lands. His sister was killed during this time, so he has every right to hate those who killed his sister, right? Prince Luther is sexy and hot as it is just being a man, but add that he is a dragon, and he is hot as heck. These two have a lot to get through before they can have the life that they both deserve. It's learning that you can't hate a whole species for what some did. I loved this book; it hit what I look for in a paranormal story that isn't just fluffy. There is meat and pain and learning to live the life they both deserve. I can't wait to read the next one.
Nicole Harvey
April 22, 2025
Courting the Dragon Prince is the first book in the new A Royal Arrangement series by Gigi Rivers. You should read the novella Courting the Dragon Lord first to have a better understanding of why things happen. This is the story of Onyx an earth elemental and Luther a dragon shifter Prince. These two must marry in an arranged marriage to secure peace. Both of the guys have hidden damage from the war to overcome. I loved watching these two work through their relationship issues. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Any book that can make me laugh and cry is one I would recommend and this one did both.
Want to read
April 30, 2025The book had me in it's grasp lol, I didn't fully yet as it's so big! But I did spend my 4-5 hrs on it! Luther has my heart, I cried for him & love him 😭. Onyx took his time to understand L but I'm glad it finally happened, they're cute then!
March 21, 2025
4.5 stars.
Oof, this is a bit angstier and a lot longer than what is typical for Gigi Rivers’ writing, but boy, does it pack a punch. I’ll start by saying the only reason it’s not a 5 star read for me, is because I felt the miscommunication went on a little too long and it’s actively one of my least favourite romance tropes. BUT the fact that the miscommunication is rooted in trauma from the war for both MCs makes it sadly quite realistic.
The depths to these characters is incredible. I started the book wanting to shake Onyx into seeing Luther was just struggling and crying out for help, to wanting to shake Luther for deliberately not listening to what Onyx had to say, to finally rejoicing at them getting behind each other’s masks.
Just like the prequel, this book doesn’t shy away from the realities of what these characters are going through in the wake of a decades long war ending with a peace treaty. Grappling with what they’ve done and what’s to come was so well done, and there’s not one character - good or bad - that you can’t understand how they feel. Gigi’s writing is so visceral.
As for the romance, once these two started to finally try to understand each other and go from reluctantly married to in a relationship, it became exactly what I could envision for this pairing. Their vulnerability together and the smutty scenes were SO GOOD. I stayed up til 4 in the morning to finish this and have no regrets. The little author’s note at the end for who the next book is about has me soooo excited. I can’t wait!
Thank you Gigi for the ARC. This review is entirely my own.
Oof, this is a bit angstier and a lot longer than what is typical for Gigi Rivers’ writing, but boy, does it pack a punch. I’ll start by saying the only reason it’s not a 5 star read for me, is because I felt the miscommunication went on a little too long and it’s actively one of my least favourite romance tropes. BUT the fact that the miscommunication is rooted in trauma from the war for both MCs makes it sadly quite realistic.
The depths to these characters is incredible. I started the book wanting to shake Onyx into seeing Luther was just struggling and crying out for help, to wanting to shake Luther for deliberately not listening to what Onyx had to say, to finally rejoicing at them getting behind each other’s masks.
Just like the prequel, this book doesn’t shy away from the realities of what these characters are going through in the wake of a decades long war ending with a peace treaty. Grappling with what they’ve done and what’s to come was so well done, and there’s not one character - good or bad - that you can’t understand how they feel. Gigi’s writing is so visceral.
As for the romance, once these two started to finally try to understand each other and go from reluctantly married to in a relationship, it became exactly what I could envision for this pairing. Their vulnerability together and the smutty scenes were SO GOOD. I stayed up til 4 in the morning to finish this and have no regrets. The little author’s note at the end for who the next book is about has me soooo excited. I can’t wait!
Thank you Gigi for the ARC. This review is entirely my own.
April 26, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Courting the Dragon Prince is the first full-length book in the A Royal Arrangement series. The world was set up in Courting the Dragon Lord, where the peace treaty requires eight dragons to marry non-dragons to bind the treaty. The marriages are arranged and Luther and Onyx loathe each other from the start. Onyx thinks Luther is a murdering dragon without a conscience and Luther feels that Onyx thinks he is better than him and it’s an antagonistic mess from the start.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Courting the Dragon Prince is the first full-length book in the A Royal Arrangement series. The world was set up in Courting the Dragon Lord, where the peace treaty requires eight dragons to marry non-dragons to bind the treaty. The marriages are arranged and Luther and Onyx loathe each other from the start. Onyx thinks Luther is a murdering dragon without a conscience and Luther feels that Onyx thinks he is better than him and it’s an antagonistic mess from the start.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 25, 2025
3.5 stars
Since reading the prequel I’ve been waiting for this book. It started off very well and I liked the characterisation of the Prince and Warden. I found the dragon prince to be sassy and refreshing and Warden Onyx to be quite his match.
Somewhere after a quarter way of the book the characters suddenly changed and no amount of great writing from Rivers could make me overlook the continuous misunderstandings - it just annoyed me quite a bit.
I had high hopes for two very alpha-like characters but it did not come to be.
Overall a good read and I really look forward to the next book (Please let Elias surprise us) and Prince Konrad and his necros betrothed book
Since reading the prequel I’ve been waiting for this book. It started off very well and I liked the characterisation of the Prince and Warden. I found the dragon prince to be sassy and refreshing and Warden Onyx to be quite his match.
Somewhere after a quarter way of the book the characters suddenly changed and no amount of great writing from Rivers could make me overlook the continuous misunderstandings - it just annoyed me quite a bit.
I had high hopes for two very alpha-like characters but it did not come to be.
Overall a good read and I really look forward to the next book (Please let Elias surprise us) and Prince Konrad and his necros betrothed book
April 29, 2025
It is a good book and a couple.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Did not finish
August 27, 2025dnf at 37% not vibing with the writing style
February 22, 2026
With a good prequel in the bag, Gigi Rivers surely brought out an angsty entertaining romance to play for the official first book.
Tropes:
*Enemy households
*Dragon vs nature elemental mage
*Past grudges/hostilities
* Loss of a loved one
*PTSD symptoms
We met Luther in the previous prequel and learned about his wonderful friendship with Lord Barrett Morton (prequel MC2). I was curious to really see how his story will play out with an enemy he can't stand in this book. At first glance, Luther sounds like a carefree person, a fun-loving, flirty, irresponsible type of young dragon warrior, but if you look closer, you'll find a young man suffering from war memories that act as a nightmare that he relives every night. He wants to make his family and his father proud, but they all seem to think of him as fickle. When his marriage is arranged between him and an earth elemental mage from the Grey Mountains, Onyx Obsidian, he thinks that he will never be able to find happiness again, because how will he make an enemy understand what his mind is doing to him?
Onyx takes his duty very seriously and, as the "Grand Warden" of the Grey Mountains, he has worked hard to support the peace treaty fully between Draconia and the five kingdoms. He also does not consider himself worthy of this position, the position of Grand Warden, because of his deceased sister, who died in the war, as she was the one who was supposed to take the role in the first place. His mother, who was the previous Grand Warden, is suffering from depression and is unable to handle her duties. In her stead, Onyx's uncle Warden Flint is handling the kingdom's work, as well as arranging Onyx's betrothal to Prince Luther. But, if the rumours hold about Luther, Onyx despises his soon-to-be betrothed's reckless behavior and flirty attitude, and hopes that his married life can be bearable.
Since their first meeting, when Luther had taken too much alcohol and was barely able to stand for their betrothal ceremony, Onyx has gotten the impression that maybe bearable isn't a choice in this marriage either. On top of that, Luther never stops flirting with people, especially "the Lightning Prince" - Elais, a beautiful man with not a strong magical ability. There have been many moments in the story where Luther's flirtatious provocations worked on Onyx, and we got some really steamy scenes thanks to that, but it does showcase how reckless Luther was becoming. Onyx is now having his hands full with an unpredictable husband who is revealing a passionate side of Onyx that he hid so well from the rest of the world; a grieving mother who has forgotten to acknowledge him as a son; and figuring out how to be a better heir without his uncle's help. With all the misunderstandings and lies that this couple is dealing with, will passion and mutual respect win? Is there a chance of them falling in love? It's a beautiful progression of a story where you just can't help but empathize with both characters who are dealing with grief in their own way.
Looking forward to Gerrard and Elias story :D
Tropes:
*Enemy households
*Dragon vs nature elemental mage
*Past grudges/hostilities
* Loss of a loved one
*PTSD symptoms
We met Luther in the previous prequel and learned about his wonderful friendship with Lord Barrett Morton (prequel MC2). I was curious to really see how his story will play out with an enemy he can't stand in this book. At first glance, Luther sounds like a carefree person, a fun-loving, flirty, irresponsible type of young dragon warrior, but if you look closer, you'll find a young man suffering from war memories that act as a nightmare that he relives every night. He wants to make his family and his father proud, but they all seem to think of him as fickle. When his marriage is arranged between him and an earth elemental mage from the Grey Mountains, Onyx Obsidian, he thinks that he will never be able to find happiness again, because how will he make an enemy understand what his mind is doing to him?
Onyx takes his duty very seriously and, as the "Grand Warden" of the Grey Mountains, he has worked hard to support the peace treaty fully between Draconia and the five kingdoms. He also does not consider himself worthy of this position, the position of Grand Warden, because of his deceased sister, who died in the war, as she was the one who was supposed to take the role in the first place. His mother, who was the previous Grand Warden, is suffering from depression and is unable to handle her duties. In her stead, Onyx's uncle Warden Flint is handling the kingdom's work, as well as arranging Onyx's betrothal to Prince Luther. But, if the rumours hold about Luther, Onyx despises his soon-to-be betrothed's reckless behavior and flirty attitude, and hopes that his married life can be bearable.
Since their first meeting, when Luther had taken too much alcohol and was barely able to stand for their betrothal ceremony, Onyx has gotten the impression that maybe bearable isn't a choice in this marriage either. On top of that, Luther never stops flirting with people, especially "the Lightning Prince" - Elais, a beautiful man with not a strong magical ability. There have been many moments in the story where Luther's flirtatious provocations worked on Onyx, and we got some really steamy scenes thanks to that, but it does showcase how reckless Luther was becoming. Onyx is now having his hands full with an unpredictable husband who is revealing a passionate side of Onyx that he hid so well from the rest of the world; a grieving mother who has forgotten to acknowledge him as a son; and figuring out how to be a better heir without his uncle's help. With all the misunderstandings and lies that this couple is dealing with, will passion and mutual respect win? Is there a chance of them falling in love? It's a beautiful progression of a story where you just can't help but empathize with both characters who are dealing with grief in their own way.
Looking forward to Gerrard and Elias story :D
March 27, 2025
An epic adventure with monsters in caves to fight (and the monsters aren't the Dragons of fairy tales!), a romance that doesn't get off to a good start, conspiracies, peace at stake and... delicious sexy scenes.
An explosive cocktail, masterfully handled by the author's fluid writing style, which gives us an exciting story that's hard to get your head out of.
I devoured Luther and Onyx's story. They don't know each other, but are prejudiced against each other, hating each other's preconceived image, and yet, for peace, they must agree to marry, to bind themselves for life.
Luther and Onyx misunderstand and judge each other, opposing and explosive temperaments where trust is hard to establish. And even more so knowing the animosity that exists between their two countries and the war that has pitted them against each other. And on top of all that, there's that sexual tension between them that's impossible to ignore.
I recommend it 100% and can't wait for the next volume!
---
Une aventure épique avec des monstres dans des grottes à combattre (et non les monstres ne sont pas les Dragons des contes de fées !), une romance qui démarre pas du tout sur les bons rails, des conspirations, la paix qui est en jeu et... de délicieuces scènes sexy.
Un cocktail détonnant, géré de mains de maître par l'auteur à l'écriture très fluide, qui nous offre une histoire passionnante de laquelle il est difficile de sortir la tête.
J'ai dévoré l'histoire de Luther et Onyx. Ils ne se connaissent pas, mais sont plein de préjugés l'un envers l'autre, et détestant l'image préconçus qu'ils ont de l'autre et pourtant, pour la paix ils doivent accepter de se marier, de se lier pour la vie.
Luther et Onyx ne se comprennent pas et se jugent, des tempéramments opposés et explosifs, où la confiance est difficile à établir. Et encore plus en sachant l'animosité qui existe entre leur deux pays et la guerre qui les a opposés. Et par dessus tout ça, il y a cette tension sexuelle entre eux qui est impossible à ignorer.
Je recommande à 100% et j'attends le prochain tome avec impatience !
An explosive cocktail, masterfully handled by the author's fluid writing style, which gives us an exciting story that's hard to get your head out of.
I devoured Luther and Onyx's story. They don't know each other, but are prejudiced against each other, hating each other's preconceived image, and yet, for peace, they must agree to marry, to bind themselves for life.
Luther and Onyx misunderstand and judge each other, opposing and explosive temperaments where trust is hard to establish. And even more so knowing the animosity that exists between their two countries and the war that has pitted them against each other. And on top of all that, there's that sexual tension between them that's impossible to ignore.
I recommend it 100% and can't wait for the next volume!
---
Une aventure épique avec des monstres dans des grottes à combattre (et non les monstres ne sont pas les Dragons des contes de fées !), une romance qui démarre pas du tout sur les bons rails, des conspirations, la paix qui est en jeu et... de délicieuces scènes sexy.
Un cocktail détonnant, géré de mains de maître par l'auteur à l'écriture très fluide, qui nous offre une histoire passionnante de laquelle il est difficile de sortir la tête.
J'ai dévoré l'histoire de Luther et Onyx. Ils ne se connaissent pas, mais sont plein de préjugés l'un envers l'autre, et détestant l'image préconçus qu'ils ont de l'autre et pourtant, pour la paix ils doivent accepter de se marier, de se lier pour la vie.
Luther et Onyx ne se comprennent pas et se jugent, des tempéramments opposés et explosifs, où la confiance est difficile à établir. Et encore plus en sachant l'animosité qui existe entre leur deux pays et la guerre qui les a opposés. Et par dessus tout ça, il y a cette tension sexuelle entre eux qui est impossible à ignorer.
Je recommande à 100% et j'attends le prochain tome avec impatience !
April 25, 2025
Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rivers is the first book in her A Royal Arrangement series. It is the story of two men on the opposite sides of fighting a war that must marry in order to insure the peace between their countries. For the last 20 years the country of Drachonia which is inhabited by dragon shifters has been fighting a war against 5 other lands ruled by different kinds of magical people. In order for the war to end a royal from each of those lands must marry a royal dragon in a special ceremony led by the head monk of the White Monastery on the Isle of the Way of the Dove. Prince Luther is the dragon that will marry Warden Onyx of the Grey Mountains. Luther is the 5th child of the royal family so has had no real training other than that of a warrior. He believes his father is disappointed in him and wishes that he could be more like his older siblings. He used to be fun loving and caring but is now plagued by his memories of the war, so much that he has nightmares that drive him to flying, dancing, and drinking before returning home where he is still unable to sleep. Yet he puts on a façade so other people will think he is fine when he is not. Warden Onyx is an earth elemental and his sister, who he was very close to, was killed by the dragons in one of their battles. He has no love for them and from what he has heard of Luther is that he is spoiled, a flirt, and doesn’t take responsibility seriously or have any sense of duty or obligation does not bode well for their betrothal. Luther knows that Onyx hates him so he goads him on, making him think that he is bedding others at the ceremonial activities that will bind them together. Together they must face the courtship rituals including a ball where they hurl insults at each other, a couple’s quest that almost kills them, and a walk through the gardens where they basically ignore each other. Through this time they are often so mad that it leads them to some hot love scenes. Once they were officially married they could not leave each other for long because of the magic that bound them. Onyx wanted to get away and was leaving, but then he heard Luther making his mother laugh. She had been wasting away and was often out of it due to the special tea she was drinking because she was miserable over her daughter’s death, leaving Onyx to fend for himself but he did have help from his uncle and cousin. This made Onyx look closer at Luther and is start to see something in him. He says he can sleep in his room and they kiss and also talk. Luther tells him about his nightmares and how flying helps and this leads to Onyx going for a ride on him in his dragon form and loving it. Then Onyx’s uncle suggests they take a trip to visit each other’s lands and to get to know each other better. They grow closer yet when a crucial piece of information is unveiled it almost leads to another catastrophe, especially when they find themselves in a situation where they have to fight together to stay alive. This leads them to tell each other, “I love you”, and to find their way together to peace for their kingdoms and themselves. They make love and know they are glad they married and won’t be alone again. This was an epic story of two men who had to go through a lot of adversity, hiding who they really were because of the ravages of war. Neither wanted to be with each other at first but as time went on, they saw the real person each of them was were able to find love, something that they both had wanted but weren’t sure they would get. Luther was kind and personable but so demoralized because of his part in the war that there were times he wasn’t sure he could go on. Onyx was disgusted by him because he didn’t think he was capable of doing his duty but was greatly surprised as he got to know Luther and found out who he really was. Their families play a big part in the story as they try to work toward peace and demand loyalty and doing their duty for their countries. There are several surprises that you don’t see coming, especially at the end. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories involving dragon shifters and other kinds of magical people, marriages decreed to make peace and not by the people involved, quests and contests, hate turning to love, and a very happy ending after adversity.
April 10, 2025
Prince Luther Drachen: Dragon prince, haunted by his role in the war, reluctantly dutiful
Warden Onyx Obsidian: Elemental mage, seething with resentment, determined to be dutiful
Hate-at-first-sight, arranged marriage, and dragons. Does it get any better than that in a romance? Luther and Onyx are the second marriage arranged to help seal the peace treaty between the mages and the dragons, and this is the first full-length book in the A Royal Arrangement series.
I really enjoyed this story about two royals who are both trying to forget the atrocities they experienced during the war, and going about it in very different ways. They're both prepared to do their duty, but they're not happy about it. Luther is delightfully bratty at times. Onyx is Very Serious. I loved watching their dynamic play out and evolve from completely begrudging betrotheds into something completely different. The conflict between them is entertaining, as is the political intrigue the kingdoms can't escape, even as they try to settle into peaceful times.
The lore and world building was just the right amount to help me understand the backgrounds and motives of the characters, and keep the story moving along. The details are thoughtful and interesting, as is the gorgeous map of the kingdoms.
I love when the characters show strong personal growth, and Luther and Onyx do not disappoint. Their romantic arc also starts with them as enemies who are betrothed, and I loved watching them really get to know each other… After totally misunderstanding each other a whole bunch. Delicious drama.
We get hints of who the next arranged couples are and some insight into their conflicts. I'm super excited to see where this series goes. You could pretty easily read this book without reading the prequel, but the prequel is a short, enjoyable novella that gives good background on the war and the treaty. I'm biased, but I think it's worth reading Barrett and Ash’s story first, not least because they're so stinkin’ cute together.
**I received an ARC from GRR and chose to write a review.**
Warden Onyx Obsidian: Elemental mage, seething with resentment, determined to be dutiful
Hate-at-first-sight, arranged marriage, and dragons. Does it get any better than that in a romance? Luther and Onyx are the second marriage arranged to help seal the peace treaty between the mages and the dragons, and this is the first full-length book in the A Royal Arrangement series.
I really enjoyed this story about two royals who are both trying to forget the atrocities they experienced during the war, and going about it in very different ways. They're both prepared to do their duty, but they're not happy about it. Luther is delightfully bratty at times. Onyx is Very Serious. I loved watching their dynamic play out and evolve from completely begrudging betrotheds into something completely different. The conflict between them is entertaining, as is the political intrigue the kingdoms can't escape, even as they try to settle into peaceful times.
The lore and world building was just the right amount to help me understand the backgrounds and motives of the characters, and keep the story moving along. The details are thoughtful and interesting, as is the gorgeous map of the kingdoms.
I love when the characters show strong personal growth, and Luther and Onyx do not disappoint. Their romantic arc also starts with them as enemies who are betrothed, and I loved watching them really get to know each other… After totally misunderstanding each other a whole bunch. Delicious drama.
We get hints of who the next arranged couples are and some insight into their conflicts. I'm super excited to see where this series goes. You could pretty easily read this book without reading the prequel, but the prequel is a short, enjoyable novella that gives good background on the war and the treaty. I'm biased, but I think it's worth reading Barrett and Ash’s story first, not least because they're so stinkin’ cute together.
**I received an ARC from GRR and chose to write a review.**
April 21, 2025
Enemies to lovers and a whole lot of hurt and comfort.
The premise of the books is one I enjoy - set after a war between magic users and dragons where the end goal is peace through magic and marriage.
I liked the world building. It wasn't too overwhelming and we got to see different ways of life and styles. Especially compared to the monastery lifestyle the characters are surrounded with. Thinking about it now, it feels similar to Avatar the Last Airbender (different elemental powers influencing the ways of life for those societies and a big war).
Seeing magic and how people can use it in every day life really interested me. The scenes where the characters just take joy from using their magic and abilities brought a smile to my face and then once the action starts you see a new side of it. Trying not to spoil here but overall seeing descriptions of magic was a highlight especially once the two MCs start to get along.
I must say, I hated the misunderstandings. I personally wasn't rooting for the couple until the end mainly because of the assumptions and self centered musings of the characters throughout. It wouldn't have been so bad if they were justified assumptions but some of the arguments and vitriol aimed at each other (mainly towards Luther) just frustrated me - especially after one of the eintimate scenes.
Saying this, I loved the secondary characters. Seeing the family dynamics of the dragons was funny and really solidified Luther's place in the world and Onyx with his mum was heartbreaking and tender especially once she started opening up.
Overall, I liked this one and will be looking forward to Gerard's story!
3.5* from me.
I recommend reading the prequel first for background and extra context as well as a wholesome duo.
I received an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The premise of the books is one I enjoy - set after a war between magic users and dragons where the end goal is peace through magic and marriage.
I liked the world building. It wasn't too overwhelming and we got to see different ways of life and styles. Especially compared to the monastery lifestyle the characters are surrounded with. Thinking about it now, it feels similar to Avatar the Last Airbender (different elemental powers influencing the ways of life for those societies and a big war).
Seeing magic and how people can use it in every day life really interested me. The scenes where the characters just take joy from using their magic and abilities brought a smile to my face and then once the action starts you see a new side of it. Trying not to spoil here but overall seeing descriptions of magic was a highlight especially once the two MCs start to get along.
I must say, I hated the misunderstandings. I personally wasn't rooting for the couple until the end mainly because of the assumptions and self centered musings of the characters throughout. It wouldn't have been so bad if they were justified assumptions but some of the arguments and vitriol aimed at each other (mainly towards Luther) just frustrated me - especially after one of the eintimate scenes.
Saying this, I loved the secondary characters. Seeing the family dynamics of the dragons was funny and really solidified Luther's place in the world and Onyx with his mum was heartbreaking and tender especially once she started opening up.
Overall, I liked this one and will be looking forward to Gerard's story!
3.5* from me.
I recommend reading the prequel first for background and extra context as well as a wholesome duo.
I received an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2025
Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rivers is the first full length novel in her new Royal Engagement Series. This is by far her longest novel to date and it is one of her best. A Royal Engagement takes place immediately after the Courting the Dragon Lord novella. This is a stand alone novel and is truly sets up the series of novels of royal dragon shifter siblings who are required to wed in order to maintain a peace treaty amongst several war-torn kingdoms. While Courting the Dragon Lord introduced us to some of the characters and the reason for the treaty, Courting the Dragon Prince expands a wonderful full novel.
Prince Luther is a dragon shifter who fought in the war and carries the scars of the battles inside as he deals with PTSD. He hides his suffering behind a fake personality and a lot of alcohol. While Warden Onyx is an Earth elemental from the Grey Mountain who also fought in the war and carries so much hurt and loss that he blames on the dragons. While there is a spark of interest between these two characters, neither of them like or want to marry the other but they do not have choice.
As the story develops, we learn so much more about the histories and personalities of Luther and Onyx. This is not a simple love story and it is not a typical hurt/comfort story because both characters are hurting and eventually find the solace, they need with each other. This is a book that introduces us to many characters, including Luther’s siblings, that will appear in later books. You cannot help but love Onyx and Luther, and at times get very frustrated because they get in their own ways for finding happiness. When they do open their eyes and see the love before them, it is spectacular. This is a slow burn story with a beautiful HEA. I am looking forward to the rest of the arranged marriages in the series.
I received and ARC for my honest review.
Prince Luther is a dragon shifter who fought in the war and carries the scars of the battles inside as he deals with PTSD. He hides his suffering behind a fake personality and a lot of alcohol. While Warden Onyx is an Earth elemental from the Grey Mountain who also fought in the war and carries so much hurt and loss that he blames on the dragons. While there is a spark of interest between these two characters, neither of them like or want to marry the other but they do not have choice.
As the story develops, we learn so much more about the histories and personalities of Luther and Onyx. This is not a simple love story and it is not a typical hurt/comfort story because both characters are hurting and eventually find the solace, they need with each other. This is a book that introduces us to many characters, including Luther’s siblings, that will appear in later books. You cannot help but love Onyx and Luther, and at times get very frustrated because they get in their own ways for finding happiness. When they do open their eyes and see the love before them, it is spectacular. This is a slow burn story with a beautiful HEA. I am looking forward to the rest of the arranged marriages in the series.
I received and ARC for my honest review.
April 30, 2025
To confirm I’ve read the prequel novella and I would recommend picking it up before reading this. It’s not a requirement, I just think it would be helpful in giving more background as to why the arranged marriages are taking place.
I love fantasy and arranged marriage, it’s like my catnip. So I knew the basics were in place for me to enjoy this book. It is on the longer side but given the extent of relationship issues I think it was necessary.
I normally don’t start with the negatives, but in honesty I struggled with our couple. Onyx came across as very staid/inflexible and mean at times. He constantly made Luther feel like crap and refused to even try and look beyond a surface level. Luther on purposely antagonised Onyx, made no effort to even pretend he wanted this marriage and did some idiotic things. Sigh. Oh and they’re both crap at communicating.
So what saved this for me? Both characters had very clear reasons for their behaviours and they were legitimate - grief, trauma, fear etc. The author crafted this well and helped you feel for both of them, even when one/both of them are being shits! I also liked the world building, no large info dumps. It is mainly set on a small island but we go into two other territories which was good. There is also the overarching plot that is developing and the set up for at least two more books in the series.
I did like this book, but would give 3.5 stars as I feel that given it’s nearly 500 pages and at 55-60% in they’re only just starting to work stuff out, it just felt a tad long for me. But at least it is what I would call proper enemies to lovers instead of holding a grudge for a stupid reason.
I got this as an ARC from gayromancereviews.com and this is my honest opinion. I like to write reviews as can be seen on my profile so feel free to check it out.
I love fantasy and arranged marriage, it’s like my catnip. So I knew the basics were in place for me to enjoy this book. It is on the longer side but given the extent of relationship issues I think it was necessary.
I normally don’t start with the negatives, but in honesty I struggled with our couple. Onyx came across as very staid/inflexible and mean at times. He constantly made Luther feel like crap and refused to even try and look beyond a surface level. Luther on purposely antagonised Onyx, made no effort to even pretend he wanted this marriage and did some idiotic things. Sigh. Oh and they’re both crap at communicating.
So what saved this for me? Both characters had very clear reasons for their behaviours and they were legitimate - grief, trauma, fear etc. The author crafted this well and helped you feel for both of them, even when one/both of them are being shits! I also liked the world building, no large info dumps. It is mainly set on a small island but we go into two other territories which was good. There is also the overarching plot that is developing and the set up for at least two more books in the series.
I did like this book, but would give 3.5 stars as I feel that given it’s nearly 500 pages and at 55-60% in they’re only just starting to work stuff out, it just felt a tad long for me. But at least it is what I would call proper enemies to lovers instead of holding a grudge for a stupid reason.
I got this as an ARC from gayromancereviews.com and this is my honest opinion. I like to write reviews as can be seen on my profile so feel free to check it out.
February 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC Review – Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rivers
This one completely won me over. I went in cautiously optimistic and came out genuinely invested.
I’m very selective when it comes to rivals-to-lovers stories. If the tension feels flimsy or built on surface-level irritation, I lose interest quickly. But this story builds its conflict on history, grief, and political consequences, which made the emotional journey feel grounded and believable.
Onyx’s resentment toward dragons isn’t exaggerated drama. It’s shaped by invasion, loss, and the death of his sister. Being bound in marriage to a dragon prince is not romantic fantasy for him. It’s duty. It’s sacrifice. It’s swallowing anger for the sake of peace.
And then there’s Luther.
At first glance, he appears reckless and indulgent, hiding behind charm and arrogance. But the deeper the story goes, the clearer it becomes that his persona is armor. Beneath it is a man carrying his own scars from war and expectation. Watching Onyx slowly recognize the truth behind Luther’s façade was one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
Their connection develops through tension, confrontation, and reluctant understanding rather than instant attraction. The emotional progression felt layered, with both external pressures and internal struggles pushing them together and pulling them apart. The stakes surrounding their union felt real, which added weight to every decision they made.
This series continues to blend romance with themes of responsibility, trauma, and reconciliation in a way that keeps me engaged. I’m officially invested in the political dynamics and the dragon royalty, and I’m very ready to continue this journey.
ARC Review – Courting the Dragon Prince by Gigi Rivers
This one completely won me over. I went in cautiously optimistic and came out genuinely invested.
I’m very selective when it comes to rivals-to-lovers stories. If the tension feels flimsy or built on surface-level irritation, I lose interest quickly. But this story builds its conflict on history, grief, and political consequences, which made the emotional journey feel grounded and believable.
Onyx’s resentment toward dragons isn’t exaggerated drama. It’s shaped by invasion, loss, and the death of his sister. Being bound in marriage to a dragon prince is not romantic fantasy for him. It’s duty. It’s sacrifice. It’s swallowing anger for the sake of peace.
And then there’s Luther.
At first glance, he appears reckless and indulgent, hiding behind charm and arrogance. But the deeper the story goes, the clearer it becomes that his persona is armor. Beneath it is a man carrying his own scars from war and expectation. Watching Onyx slowly recognize the truth behind Luther’s façade was one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
Their connection develops through tension, confrontation, and reluctant understanding rather than instant attraction. The emotional progression felt layered, with both external pressures and internal struggles pushing them together and pulling them apart. The stakes surrounding their union felt real, which added weight to every decision they made.
This series continues to blend romance with themes of responsibility, trauma, and reconciliation in a way that keeps me engaged. I’m officially invested in the political dynamics and the dragon royalty, and I’m very ready to continue this journey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2025
Courting the Dragon Prince - Gigi Rivers
5/5✨🌟
Buddy read
** SPOILER **
“𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦’𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴,” 𝘖𝘯𝘺𝘹 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥. “𝘚𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.” 𝘖𝘯𝘺𝘹’𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵. “𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘓𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳.”
I have read quite a few books by Gigi and I’ve loved every single one of them but this one is by far my favorite. This book took the cake out of all of them. When the book captures you in the first couple of pages, you know this book is going to be so good.
I’m a huge sucker for forced proximity romance and the enemies to lovers trope had me all over these two.
The spice in this book was hot hot hot! These two just couldn’t get enough of one another. I was totally shocked at Onyx’s thoughts before they were intimate and I knew the spice was going to be out of this world.
So many emotions went through me especially with Onyx’s mother. I felt for Onyx but when Luther was able to get through to her, I had hope for her.
The way that these two got to know each other only caused them to fall for one another and so hard did they fall. From the laughter, the angst, the tears, and the joy I felt for these two, it was everything. That emotional scene when they fought complete broke me.
Loved the mental health rep here and the emotional scars that these two had for one another.
I cannot wait for the next story because I just know it’s going to be so good!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5✨🌟
Buddy read
** SPOILER **
“𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘺 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦’𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴,” 𝘖𝘯𝘺𝘹 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥. “𝘚𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩, 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘐 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘴𝘰 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.” 𝘖𝘯𝘺𝘹’𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵. “𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘓𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳.”
I have read quite a few books by Gigi and I’ve loved every single one of them but this one is by far my favorite. This book took the cake out of all of them. When the book captures you in the first couple of pages, you know this book is going to be so good.
I’m a huge sucker for forced proximity romance and the enemies to lovers trope had me all over these two.
The spice in this book was hot hot hot! These two just couldn’t get enough of one another. I was totally shocked at Onyx’s thoughts before they were intimate and I knew the spice was going to be out of this world.
So many emotions went through me especially with Onyx’s mother. I felt for Onyx but when Luther was able to get through to her, I had hope for her.
The way that these two got to know each other only caused them to fall for one another and so hard did they fall. From the laughter, the angst, the tears, and the joy I felt for these two, it was everything. That emotional scene when they fought complete broke me.
Loved the mental health rep here and the emotional scars that these two had for one another.
I cannot wait for the next story because I just know it’s going to be so good!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
April 18, 2025
COURTING THE DRAGON PRINCE is the first full-length novel in the Royal Arrangement series, featuring Prince Luther of Draconia and Warden Onyx of the Grey Mountains.
At first glance, this is an enemies-to-lovers story, but it is so much more than that. Both Luther and Onyx are glad the war is over and want peace. Luther is suffering from PTSD/survivor's guilt and trying to drown it out through drinking and exhaustion. Onyx leaps to the wrong conclusions and their relationship is strained at best. I was honestly counting down the pages until the first breakthrough in their relationship as I wanted it to work out between them SOOO badly!
It has a steady pace that will keep you turning the pages. All of the characters evolve in many ways, especially Luther and Onyx. I did enjoy seeing Ash and Barrett again and was happy that they were happy. There are some topics here that might make some readers uncomfortable, addiction for example, as well as the PTSD and survivor's guilt. It was also spicy in places, with Onyx and Luther showing little Dom/sub streaks.
All in all, this was a great read that kept me turning the pages. I loved this story and can't wait to return to Gerard and Elias' story. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 31, 2025
At first glance, this is an enemies-to-lovers story, but it is so much more than that. Both Luther and Onyx are glad the war is over and want peace. Luther is suffering from PTSD/survivor's guilt and trying to drown it out through drinking and exhaustion. Onyx leaps to the wrong conclusions and their relationship is strained at best. I was honestly counting down the pages until the first breakthrough in their relationship as I wanted it to work out between them SOOO badly!
It has a steady pace that will keep you turning the pages. All of the characters evolve in many ways, especially Luther and Onyx. I did enjoy seeing Ash and Barrett again and was happy that they were happy. There are some topics here that might make some readers uncomfortable, addiction for example, as well as the PTSD and survivor's guilt. It was also spicy in places, with Onyx and Luther showing little Dom/sub streaks.
All in all, this was a great read that kept me turning the pages. I loved this story and can't wait to return to Gerard and Elias' story. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 31, 2025
May 3, 2025
*I received an ARC copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion*(no spoilers)
Book - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:-
🐉enemies to lovers
🌳hurt comfort
🐉opposites attract
🌳arranged marriage/royalty
🐉dragons
"But he’d bury his disappointment. His rage. His fury. His grief and pain. He’d marry this spoiled, self, vile prince. The greed of the dragons had started the war. Dragons had killed his sister. But he’d marry one of them if it meant peace."
"I’m married. I’m married to a man who looks down on me. To a man who despises me. To a man who is disgusted by me and disgusted by his desire for me. Onyx hates me. My husband hates me."
Firstly, I enjoyed this book more than the first. I did enjoy the first book however I appreciated the fact that this was a proper length story. It meant that the world building - for example what happened on the war - could be really fleshed out and expanded upon what was introduced in the first book. However, this book is quite long and it did feel that it could have maybe been cut down in some places without losing much to the story. I really am enjoying how Gigi is fleshing out the different magic systems in this book.
In my opinion it was more angsty than the first and there was quite a bit of my most hated trope miscommunication but that made sense in the context of the war/ what both MMCs had been through during the conflict. So I gave it a little more grace than I usually would. I liked that they had a valid reason to be enemies. Despite there being
Enemies to lovers is hands down one of my fave tropes and I really enjoyed Gigi's take on it. Initially both characters made quite alot of - incorrect it turns out - assumptions about each other. Especially Onyx. It was quite a journey for Onyx and Luther to realise that they had been wrong about one another however it was a very worthwhile one. Like in the first book, both men have trauma from the war and help each other overcome/heal from that. I felt this aspect was done better than in the first book but mostly because the I felt the first book was a little rushed due to it being a novella when compared to this one.
The chemistry between them was 🔥 even when from the beginning when they both thought they hated one another. I liked both chatacter. Luthor very much acted like a spoilt brat despite it being a facade. I loved how Onyx was eventually able to see through the front Luthor put on and both understand and help him. I loved watching Luthor grow as a character. Seeing both of them learn to be vulnerable with each other, despite everything that had been thorough in the war, was so satisfying.
I am looking forward to the next in the series!
Book - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Tropes:-
🐉enemies to lovers
🌳hurt comfort
🐉opposites attract
🌳arranged marriage/royalty
🐉dragons
"But he’d bury his disappointment. His rage. His fury. His grief and pain. He’d marry this spoiled, self, vile prince. The greed of the dragons had started the war. Dragons had killed his sister. But he’d marry one of them if it meant peace."
"I’m married. I’m married to a man who looks down on me. To a man who despises me. To a man who is disgusted by me and disgusted by his desire for me. Onyx hates me. My husband hates me."
Firstly, I enjoyed this book more than the first. I did enjoy the first book however I appreciated the fact that this was a proper length story. It meant that the world building - for example what happened on the war - could be really fleshed out and expanded upon what was introduced in the first book. However, this book is quite long and it did feel that it could have maybe been cut down in some places without losing much to the story. I really am enjoying how Gigi is fleshing out the different magic systems in this book.
In my opinion it was more angsty than the first and there was quite a bit of my most hated trope miscommunication but that made sense in the context of the war/ what both MMCs had been through during the conflict. So I gave it a little more grace than I usually would. I liked that they had a valid reason to be enemies. Despite there being
Enemies to lovers is hands down one of my fave tropes and I really enjoyed Gigi's take on it. Initially both characters made quite alot of - incorrect it turns out - assumptions about each other. Especially Onyx. It was quite a journey for Onyx and Luther to realise that they had been wrong about one another however it was a very worthwhile one. Like in the first book, both men have trauma from the war and help each other overcome/heal from that. I felt this aspect was done better than in the first book but mostly because the I felt the first book was a little rushed due to it being a novella when compared to this one.
The chemistry between them was 🔥 even when from the beginning when they both thought they hated one another. I liked both chatacter. Luthor very much acted like a spoilt brat despite it being a facade. I loved how Onyx was eventually able to see through the front Luthor put on and both understand and help him. I loved watching Luthor grow as a character. Seeing both of them learn to be vulnerable with each other, despite everything that had been thorough in the war, was so satisfying.
I am looking forward to the next in the series!
March 28, 2025
- fantasy
- series
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
This is the first in a series, although there is a prequel story (that's also pretty good). The series is set in a world that's been torn apart by war, with the dragons seeking peace with all the other nations through arranged marriages, and this one is Onyx and Luther's story. Both have seen the horrors of war and both have been affected by it differently, Onyx through loss and Luther through decisions he made during battle haunting him.
When they meet, they definitely don't like each other at all, but agree to go through with the marriage for the sake of peace. It doesn't stop them antagonising each other though, Luther in particular is great at needling Onyx, resulting in sexy times as the heat between the two is intense (not a pun because Luther is a dragon 😉 ). I liked the interplay between the two, Luther is such a brat at times and Onyx is his perfect foil. I loved seeing them come round to each other too, it's such a nice development of their relationship, even with the big reveal at the end.
The story is good too, I liked the twist at the end and Onyx and Luther working together to get out of the situation they ended up in. I couldn't put this book down, and read it in two sittings as I was so engrossed. So looking forward to the rest of the series now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
- series
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
This is the first in a series, although there is a prequel story (that's also pretty good). The series is set in a world that's been torn apart by war, with the dragons seeking peace with all the other nations through arranged marriages, and this one is Onyx and Luther's story. Both have seen the horrors of war and both have been affected by it differently, Onyx through loss and Luther through decisions he made during battle haunting him.
When they meet, they definitely don't like each other at all, but agree to go through with the marriage for the sake of peace. It doesn't stop them antagonising each other though, Luther in particular is great at needling Onyx, resulting in sexy times as the heat between the two is intense (not a pun because Luther is a dragon 😉 ). I liked the interplay between the two, Luther is such a brat at times and Onyx is his perfect foil. I loved seeing them come round to each other too, it's such a nice development of their relationship, even with the big reveal at the end.
The story is good too, I liked the twist at the end and Onyx and Luther working together to get out of the situation they ended up in. I couldn't put this book down, and read it in two sittings as I was so engrossed. So looking forward to the rest of the series now.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
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