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Phoenix Rising: An Arranged Marriage Between a Quiet Bookworm and the Last Dragon Shifter
She’s a quiet bookworm. He’s the last dragon shifter. Together, they will bring a kingdom to its knees.
Rosalie Greenwood’s been called worthless since the day she was born. The neglected second daughter of a pirate turned landowner, she spent her days hiding in her room and begging her father to send her to a convent. Her only real ally was her older sister, Caterina, but she was contracted to marry the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge. Then Caterina ran away with her lover, and Rosalie was forced to marry the duke instead.
Lochlyn Blackmoor was resigned to his fate. Thanks to a war he wasn’t allowed to fight in, he became the duke at fourteen, and the only dragon shifter left in Alessia. Lochlyn spent the next ten years reclaiming his family’s honor, but what he really needed was an heir. He agreed to marry out of duty, but he never expected to be swept away by Rosalie, a beauty with fire in her heart that matched his own.
Once they’re home at Dragon Ridge, their marriage doesn’t go smoothly. Rosalie and Lochlyn stay on opposite sides of the castle, until the last person they expected arrived on their doorstep. Thrown together by a situation out of their control they find solace in each other, but harmony doesn’t last.
After being abruptly summoned to the capital, they uncover a conspiracy linked to the legendary phoenix knights, the Order of the Sun, and learn how far the king—a weak shifter trapped in a half form for the last twenty years—is willing to go in order to keep his tenuous hold on the throne. What none of their enemies realize is that Rosalie is hiding the biggest secret of all.
Phoenix Rising is a romantasy featuring arranged marriage, fated mates, and reclaiming your power. It's perfect for fans of dragon shifters, phoenix knights, and a heroine whose mind is sharper than any sword.
Rosalie Greenwood’s been called worthless since the day she was born. The neglected second daughter of a pirate turned landowner, she spent her days hiding in her room and begging her father to send her to a convent. Her only real ally was her older sister, Caterina, but she was contracted to marry the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge. Then Caterina ran away with her lover, and Rosalie was forced to marry the duke instead.
Lochlyn Blackmoor was resigned to his fate. Thanks to a war he wasn’t allowed to fight in, he became the duke at fourteen, and the only dragon shifter left in Alessia. Lochlyn spent the next ten years reclaiming his family’s honor, but what he really needed was an heir. He agreed to marry out of duty, but he never expected to be swept away by Rosalie, a beauty with fire in her heart that matched his own.
Once they’re home at Dragon Ridge, their marriage doesn’t go smoothly. Rosalie and Lochlyn stay on opposite sides of the castle, until the last person they expected arrived on their doorstep. Thrown together by a situation out of their control they find solace in each other, but harmony doesn’t last.
After being abruptly summoned to the capital, they uncover a conspiracy linked to the legendary phoenix knights, the Order of the Sun, and learn how far the king—a weak shifter trapped in a half form for the last twenty years—is willing to go in order to keep his tenuous hold on the throne. What none of their enemies realize is that Rosalie is hiding the biggest secret of all.
Phoenix Rising is a romantasy featuring arranged marriage, fated mates, and reclaiming your power. It's perfect for fans of dragon shifters, phoenix knights, and a heroine whose mind is sharper than any sword.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
About the author
Jennifer Allis Provost
56 books689 followersBe sure to follow Jenn on BookBub for the latest on sales and new releases: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jenni...
Looking for exclusive content, including the prequel to Poison Garden? Follow her on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=143069...
Jennifer Allis Provost is a native New Englander who lives in a sprawling colonial along with her beautiful and precocious twins, a dog, two birds, three cats, and a wonderful husband who never forgets to buy ice cream. As a child, she read anything and everything she could get her hands on, including a set of encyclopedias, but fantasy was always her favorite. She spends her days drinking vast amounts of coffee, arguing with her computer, and avoiding any and all domestic behavior.
Looking for exclusive content, including the prequel to Poison Garden? Follow her on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=143069...
Jennifer Allis Provost is a native New Englander who lives in a sprawling colonial along with her beautiful and precocious twins, a dog, two birds, three cats, and a wonderful husband who never forgets to buy ice cream. As a child, she read anything and everything she could get her hands on, including a set of encyclopedias, but fantasy was always her favorite. She spends her days drinking vast amounts of coffee, arguing with her computer, and avoiding any and all domestic behavior.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
August 18, 2026
This was so fast, so fun and so shifty! Dragon shifty I mean! Rosalie finds herself in an arranged marriage after her older sister up and runs away with her guard a day before the wedding.
Forced to marry a stranger, she’s spirited away to his keep high in the chilly mountains. From there, hold onto your seats because it is a mile a minute action! There’s nothing slow about Jennifer Allis Provost’s first book in the Fire and Claw series. I was not expecting to fall so thoroughly into this world, but friends, I didn’t budge from my couch until I was finished! I loved Rosalie and her fiery spirit. I loved Lochlyn and his deeply caring nature (I'm a sucker for an empathetic MMC). The way their relationship develops feels natural when you’re basically strangers! There is a bit of insta-love present, but the latter part of the story explains where it comes from so it gets a pass.
One of the other things I loved with my whole heart is the inclusion of fostered and adopted children into their household. That is so uncommon to see in the fantasy world, it warmed my heart that it was brought to life here.
This was such a rollercoaster of events, nothing about this was slow or plodding! What Rosalie and Lochlyn discover about themselves as a couple and for themselves is so compelling! A Sunday well spent if you ask me. I’m eager to see where it goes in the next book, Dragon Descending!
Four feathery flames for this one! (Iykyk.)
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Forced to marry a stranger, she’s spirited away to his keep high in the chilly mountains. From there, hold onto your seats because it is a mile a minute action! There’s nothing slow about Jennifer Allis Provost’s first book in the Fire and Claw series. I was not expecting to fall so thoroughly into this world, but friends, I didn’t budge from my couch until I was finished! I loved Rosalie and her fiery spirit. I loved Lochlyn and his deeply caring nature (I'm a sucker for an empathetic MMC). The way their relationship develops feels natural when you’re basically strangers! There is a bit of insta-love present, but the latter part of the story explains where it comes from so it gets a pass.
One of the other things I loved with my whole heart is the inclusion of fostered and adopted children into their household. That is so uncommon to see in the fantasy world, it warmed my heart that it was brought to life here.
This was such a rollercoaster of events, nothing about this was slow or plodding! What Rosalie and Lochlyn discover about themselves as a couple and for themselves is so compelling! A Sunday well spent if you ask me. I’m eager to see where it goes in the next book, Dragon Descending!
Four feathery flames for this one! (Iykyk.)
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and the author for providing an ARC of this book on NetGalley.
In this story, we’re following Rosalie, the second daughter of a pirate turned landowner. He values wealth more than anything and doesn’t treat his numerous children very well, so Rosalie grows up spending most of her time in her room reading and begging her father to send her to a convent.
From all of her siblings, the one she gets along with the best is her older sister, Caterina, who’s about to marry the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge, the last dragon shifter. But right before her wedding, she runs away with her lover, and Rosalie is forced by her father to marry the duke instead. And here is where our story starts.
Although the premise sounded really good and right down my alley (pirates, dragon shifters, fated mates), the execution has fallen quite flat for me. Mainly due to the pacing, world-building, and the dialogue we have in the story.
Since the book’s description said the characters lived in opposite sites of the castle after being forced to marry, I thought we were in for a slow burn story of them getting to know each other little by little, and finding out they were fated mates along the way. But the truth is that ever since they met for the first time right on their wedding (with 0 background or knowledge about each other), they have kept using multiple variations of pet names and affirming they are for sure destined they are to each other. There’s very little buildup for them, and it feels bland and very unrealistic (especially considering the background both characters have). This is the biggest example of how the story feels very rushed for me since the beginning, though it’s been the same for the subplots of the story: they seem to come out of nowhere and there’s very little buildup to them. I've ended up skimming on so many parts because nothing interesting really happens and it's not adding to the story whatsoever.
This issue with the pacing is tied to my issue with the dialogues: they all also feel rushed, the interactions between Rosalie and Lochlyn feel very repetitive, and, most of all, there’s too much bland dialogue. We barely get descriptions or time to allow for worldbuilding, and for the most part the book feels like fast dialogue between the characters.
I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who loves slow burns. But if on the other side, you enjoy fast-paced books where the characters are super love-dovey from the start (and also don’t mind little worldbuilding), then I might give it a try. You might enjoy it more than I did.
In this story, we’re following Rosalie, the second daughter of a pirate turned landowner. He values wealth more than anything and doesn’t treat his numerous children very well, so Rosalie grows up spending most of her time in her room reading and begging her father to send her to a convent.
From all of her siblings, the one she gets along with the best is her older sister, Caterina, who’s about to marry the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge, the last dragon shifter. But right before her wedding, she runs away with her lover, and Rosalie is forced by her father to marry the duke instead. And here is where our story starts.
Although the premise sounded really good and right down my alley (pirates, dragon shifters, fated mates), the execution has fallen quite flat for me. Mainly due to the pacing, world-building, and the dialogue we have in the story.
Since the book’s description said the characters lived in opposite sites of the castle after being forced to marry, I thought we were in for a slow burn story of them getting to know each other little by little, and finding out they were fated mates along the way. But the truth is that ever since they met for the first time right on their wedding (with 0 background or knowledge about each other), they have kept using multiple variations of pet names and affirming they are for sure destined they are to each other. There’s very little buildup for them, and it feels bland and very unrealistic (especially considering the background both characters have). This is the biggest example of how the story feels very rushed for me since the beginning, though it’s been the same for the subplots of the story: they seem to come out of nowhere and there’s very little buildup to them. I've ended up skimming on so many parts because nothing interesting really happens and it's not adding to the story whatsoever.
This issue with the pacing is tied to my issue with the dialogues: they all also feel rushed, the interactions between Rosalie and Lochlyn feel very repetitive, and, most of all, there’s too much bland dialogue. We barely get descriptions or time to allow for worldbuilding, and for the most part the book feels like fast dialogue between the characters.
I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone who loves slow burns. But if on the other side, you enjoy fast-paced books where the characters are super love-dovey from the start (and also don’t mind little worldbuilding), then I might give it a try. You might enjoy it more than I did.
November 26, 2025
3 stars for me.
Rosalie Greenwood’s is forced to take her sister who ran away place as a bride.Lochlyn Blackmoor needs a wife,and he's quite happy when Rosalie marry him and travel to his home Dragon Ridge.Him being the last dragon it's only the beginning of secrets and danger that they face.
The king wants somthig from them and Rosalie father once again prove how cruel and selfish he is.
Will Rosalie be happy with the husband she know nothing about?
Will she survive the betrayals that awaiting her and her new husband?
It was a interesting read,dragons and phoenix,betrayals and sinnister plans.While I enjoyed the fantasy part, insta love was not something that grip my attention,I was expecting maybe a little bit more tension and chemistry between them.That dosen't mean it was dissapointing as I really want to know what will happen when the king comes and try to get what he thinks is his.Hope to get book 2 in the future and find out.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Rosalie Greenwood’s is forced to take her sister who ran away place as a bride.Lochlyn Blackmoor needs a wife,and he's quite happy when Rosalie marry him and travel to his home Dragon Ridge.Him being the last dragon it's only the beginning of secrets and danger that they face.
The king wants somthig from them and Rosalie father once again prove how cruel and selfish he is.
Will Rosalie be happy with the husband she know nothing about?
Will she survive the betrayals that awaiting her and her new husband?
It was a interesting read,dragons and phoenix,betrayals and sinnister plans.While I enjoyed the fantasy part, insta love was not something that grip my attention,I was expecting maybe a little bit more tension and chemistry between them.That dosen't mean it was dissapointing as I really want to know what will happen when the king comes and try to get what he thinks is his.Hope to get book 2 in the future and find out.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2025
thank you to the author & netgalley for the arc of phoenix rising but alas i would like to say i did not enjoy this book at all.
i went into this book thinking i would be swept away by the porse of an arranged marriage, fated mates, and reclaiming your power! but alas, all i was met with was insta-love, cringe-y dialogue and very rushed pacing. it was as though the author had a lot of good ideas and was very excited to get it out to the world ASAP
one thing that really irked me was the fact that the MMC kept using different types of pet names for the FMC when hello…? you just met. he even said he was absolutely smitten w her, from WHAT??? there is no chemistry. it was like those toca boca games where you put two characters in the frame, and make them talk romantically with no subtext and no context whatsoever. the conversations between the main characters were so bland.
there was no worldbuilding? like for me, romantasy at least need to have some sort of explanation or lore but no, in this book, i knew he was a shifter because he took of his shirt and his wings came out. um. okay i guess?
i am not an insta-love fan, if you could say i am a hater, i actually am but if you like fast-paced books where there’s not much worldbuilding and you’re just thrown into the world and expected to grasp at straws at what’s happening, maybe give this book a try, you might like it, who knows?
i went into this book thinking i would be swept away by the porse of an arranged marriage, fated mates, and reclaiming your power! but alas, all i was met with was insta-love, cringe-y dialogue and very rushed pacing. it was as though the author had a lot of good ideas and was very excited to get it out to the world ASAP
one thing that really irked me was the fact that the MMC kept using different types of pet names for the FMC when hello…? you just met. he even said he was absolutely smitten w her, from WHAT??? there is no chemistry. it was like those toca boca games where you put two characters in the frame, and make them talk romantically with no subtext and no context whatsoever. the conversations between the main characters were so bland.
there was no worldbuilding? like for me, romantasy at least need to have some sort of explanation or lore but no, in this book, i knew he was a shifter because he took of his shirt and his wings came out. um. okay i guess?
i am not an insta-love fan, if you could say i am a hater, i actually am but if you like fast-paced books where there’s not much worldbuilding and you’re just thrown into the world and expected to grasp at straws at what’s happening, maybe give this book a try, you might like it, who knows?
October 4, 2025
From forced marriage to instant family in record time.
Rosalie is pushed into marrying the infamous Duke Lochlyn Blackmoor after her sister elopes with a guard — and somehow, within five months, we’ve gone from “polite strangers” to “declaration of love, four adopted children, and a pregnancy.” The setup had promise and I liked the general outline of the story, but the execution felt really too rushed with little build-up.
Lochlyn, a dragon shifter, is cautious to a fault — his affection unfolding so slowly that the supposed slow burn feels more like a simmer. Then, almost overnight, the emotional temperature spikes. Rosalie’s own phoenix nature, revealed only later in the book, could have been a powerful turning point, yet it arrives too late to truly ignite the story.
A solid 3-star read for me: enjoyable in parts, but predictable and emotionally flat. The dialogue was pretty bland and a bit cheesy.
And since I always notice — no scent for the MMC.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
Rosalie is pushed into marrying the infamous Duke Lochlyn Blackmoor after her sister elopes with a guard — and somehow, within five months, we’ve gone from “polite strangers” to “declaration of love, four adopted children, and a pregnancy.” The setup had promise and I liked the general outline of the story, but the execution felt really too rushed with little build-up.
Lochlyn, a dragon shifter, is cautious to a fault — his affection unfolding so slowly that the supposed slow burn feels more like a simmer. Then, almost overnight, the emotional temperature spikes. Rosalie’s own phoenix nature, revealed only later in the book, could have been a powerful turning point, yet it arrives too late to truly ignite the story.
A solid 3-star read for me: enjoyable in parts, but predictable and emotionally flat. The dialogue was pretty bland and a bit cheesy.
And since I always notice — no scent for the MMC.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 17, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and editors for this book.
The book is so sweet and so easygoing, it sure has some twists and shades that are quite a bit dramatic, but the book flows so much, like a gentle breeze in an autumn afternoon, where you can't stop, it is quite addictive in the simple way that keeps you going for all that there's at the end, and I honestly really, really enjoyed it, because It is a Romance so sweet, so natural, the main characters are very very fond of each other and they are so sweet.
It really is a great book for an easy and calm afternoon/night.
There's a dragon, there's a phoenix(or a few of them) and there's a basilisk (or more) and a lot of intended babies.
can't wait to read the second!
The book is so sweet and so easygoing, it sure has some twists and shades that are quite a bit dramatic, but the book flows so much, like a gentle breeze in an autumn afternoon, where you can't stop, it is quite addictive in the simple way that keeps you going for all that there's at the end, and I honestly really, really enjoyed it, because It is a Romance so sweet, so natural, the main characters are very very fond of each other and they are so sweet.
It really is a great book for an easy and calm afternoon/night.
There's a dragon, there's a phoenix(or a few of them) and there's a basilisk (or more) and a lot of intended babies.
can't wait to read the second!
August 20, 2026
This book was a fun, cute story that involves everything you like from shifters to arrange marriages to hidden powers. You get it all with this book!
I love the world building of this book and the history in this story. It was well set adn would expand as you read the book. At the beginning of the book there was a history of the world which I loved so much!
The MCs of this book we were written. I enjoyed the interaction between the FMC and MMC throughout the whole book! They were well written and very likable. I think they added so much for this story and I loved reading them.
There were moments that were pretty obvious but other times there were times that surpirsed me but all and all this book was very good!
If you love arranged marriages, hidden powers, shifters, found family, libraries and dragons then this book is for you!
I love the world building of this book and the history in this story. It was well set adn would expand as you read the book. At the beginning of the book there was a history of the world which I loved so much!
The MCs of this book we were written. I enjoyed the interaction between the FMC and MMC throughout the whole book! They were well written and very likable. I think they added so much for this story and I loved reading them.
There were moments that were pretty obvious but other times there were times that surpirsed me but all and all this book was very good!
If you love arranged marriages, hidden powers, shifters, found family, libraries and dragons then this book is for you!
August 21, 2026
Phoenix Rising had such good bones, and I think that’s ultimately what made this one so frustrating for me. I loved the idea of the different shifter lineages, the way their magic and inheritance worked differently, and some of the connections between dragons, phoenixes, and the larger politics of the world. There were genuinely interesting ideas here—I just never felt like the story gave them enough room to become what they could have been.
My biggest issue was the pacing. The romance developed incredibly quickly, with Rosalie and Lochlyn reaching a level of affection and commitment that I didn’t feel like I had actually watched them earn yet. Then, just when their relationship started settling into a more natural rhythm, the book shifted heavily into the larger mystery, political conflict, and magical lineage reveals.
I really wish those two parts of the story had happened alongside each other. Let Rosalie and Lochlyn slowly fall for each other while investigating the strange things happening around Dragon Ridge. Let the questions about Rosalie’s history, the phoenixes, the stolen information, and the king build in the background while their marriage develops. It would have given the romance more natural opportunities for trust and intimacy while allowing the mystery to unfold gradually instead of so many major revelations arriving later in the book.
There were also several moments that should have felt huge—new family members, magical discoveries, traumatic revelations, confrontations with the king—but they happened and were resolved so quickly that I didn’t always have time to emotionally connect with them before we were moving on to the next thing.
The world itself was probably my favorite part. I genuinely enjoyed learning about the dragons, phoenixes, basilisks, selkies, and the different ways shifter blood could manifest. There is a really interesting fantasy story underneath all of this, which is why I kept wanting more depth.
Unfortunately, this ended up being one of those books where I could see the potential the entire time, but the execution never quite got me there. The romance and fantasy plot both had pieces I liked—I just wish they had been woven together more naturally and given a lot more room to breathe.
My biggest issue was the pacing. The romance developed incredibly quickly, with Rosalie and Lochlyn reaching a level of affection and commitment that I didn’t feel like I had actually watched them earn yet. Then, just when their relationship started settling into a more natural rhythm, the book shifted heavily into the larger mystery, political conflict, and magical lineage reveals.
I really wish those two parts of the story had happened alongside each other. Let Rosalie and Lochlyn slowly fall for each other while investigating the strange things happening around Dragon Ridge. Let the questions about Rosalie’s history, the phoenixes, the stolen information, and the king build in the background while their marriage develops. It would have given the romance more natural opportunities for trust and intimacy while allowing the mystery to unfold gradually instead of so many major revelations arriving later in the book.
There were also several moments that should have felt huge—new family members, magical discoveries, traumatic revelations, confrontations with the king—but they happened and were resolved so quickly that I didn’t always have time to emotionally connect with them before we were moving on to the next thing.
The world itself was probably my favorite part. I genuinely enjoyed learning about the dragons, phoenixes, basilisks, selkies, and the different ways shifter blood could manifest. There is a really interesting fantasy story underneath all of this, which is why I kept wanting more depth.
Unfortunately, this ended up being one of those books where I could see the potential the entire time, but the execution never quite got me there. The romance and fantasy plot both had pieces I liked—I just wish they had been woven together more naturally and given a lot more room to breathe.
December 22, 2025
Locklyn & Rosalie’s story takes place in a well-developed world of shifters and magic and is full of twists and turns. Thrown together at the last minute in an arranged marriage after her sister flees with her lover, Rosalie and Locklyn have a bit of a rocky start to their relationship. The attraction is instant, though not well displayed at first.
I love Locklyn’s character and his immediate dedication to Rosalie, how he is protective and caring for her and does what he believes to be right by her. His past wounds are heartbreaking, and his history is full of pain, loss, and grief. How he developed into such a noble man, I do not know, but Locklyn does not let his past overshadow the bright possibilities of his future, especially his future with Rosalie, if she will have him once she knows who he really is.
Rosalie’s past is also full of pain and suffering, but at the hand of her father instead of the cruelness of others. She carries her own scars and secrets that she worries will cause Locklyn to discard her once he knows. As they share their vulnerabilities with each other, the bond formed between them strengthens tremendously in the most wonderful way. Two wounded hearts that find each other at just the right time to help with healing, hope, and building a new life together.
There are multiple twists throughout the novel that add a great deal of intrigue and depth to the story as the details begin to come together with each new discovery. Just the right amount of information is divulged to keep the story building without being overwhelming in detail but revealing key components to the history of the land, the political system, and the character backgrounds of the main and supporting characters to develop a collective whole picture. I’m looking forward to continuing their story in the next installation of the series and an anxious to see how things will develop in the aftermath of this novel.
Favorite Quotes:
“Be overwhelmed, or sad, or whatever you need to be, but know this. You never need to be afraid of me. We have each other now, and I will always take care of you.”
“I can’t imagine living without you…Rosalie, I will never let you go.”
I love Locklyn’s character and his immediate dedication to Rosalie, how he is protective and caring for her and does what he believes to be right by her. His past wounds are heartbreaking, and his history is full of pain, loss, and grief. How he developed into such a noble man, I do not know, but Locklyn does not let his past overshadow the bright possibilities of his future, especially his future with Rosalie, if she will have him once she knows who he really is.
Rosalie’s past is also full of pain and suffering, but at the hand of her father instead of the cruelness of others. She carries her own scars and secrets that she worries will cause Locklyn to discard her once he knows. As they share their vulnerabilities with each other, the bond formed between them strengthens tremendously in the most wonderful way. Two wounded hearts that find each other at just the right time to help with healing, hope, and building a new life together.
There are multiple twists throughout the novel that add a great deal of intrigue and depth to the story as the details begin to come together with each new discovery. Just the right amount of information is divulged to keep the story building without being overwhelming in detail but revealing key components to the history of the land, the political system, and the character backgrounds of the main and supporting characters to develop a collective whole picture. I’m looking forward to continuing their story in the next installation of the series and an anxious to see how things will develop in the aftermath of this novel.
Favorite Quotes:
“Be overwhelmed, or sad, or whatever you need to be, but know this. You never need to be afraid of me. We have each other now, and I will always take care of you.”
“I can’t imagine living without you…Rosalie, I will never let you go.”
August 28, 2026
3.5⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This started as a cozy romantasy and turned into so much more! I was completely hooked by the fast pace, magical world, and all the secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Rosalie is forced into an arranged marriage with Lochlyn after her sister runs away just days before the wedding. Escaping her abusive father, she heads to Lochlyn’s home in Dragon Ridge. There’s some initial tension and miscommunication between them in the beginning. This is a bit insta-love, which isn’t usually my favorite, I would have loved a little more tension between them. The action picks up towards the end when her sister turns up kidnapped by the evil king who is also determined to break up their marriage & take Lochlyns dragon scales.
I loved Rosalie’s fierce, determined personality, and Lochlyn was such a great MMC. I mean… a hot dragon shifter who lets her ride him?! Say less. He’s protective, caring, and incredibly empathetic, and I loved watching them become vulnerable and open up to each other.
The world-building and history were really well done, and I loved uncovering all the twists and secrets along the way. I also loved the inclusion of fostered and adopted children—you don’t see that in romantasy, and I thought it added such a unique element.
Overall, this was a fun, magical romantasy filled with shifters, hidden powers, twists, and magic. I’m excited to continue the series!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Book 1 / Romantasy
➳❥ Arranged Marriage
➳❥ Dragon Shifter
➳❥ He Falls First
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
➳❥ Phoenix Shifter
➳❥ Royal Court Intrigue
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“Be overwhelmed, or sad, or whatever you need to be, but know this: you never need to be afraid of me.”
“Nothing could make me give you up, not even the Fates Themselves.”
“Be warned, my kind mates for life.”
“I was a creature of fire, just as he was, and his perfect mate.”
November 28, 2025
DNF at 20%, not my cup of tea.
Unfortunately I had to DNF this book, which is very unlike me as I will finish a book even if I don't completely like it or if I'm critical of the story. But I could simply not continue to read this one.
I hope that this book does find the right audience, I was very interested when I read the description so I am very disappointed that this one is not for me as I was looking forward to it a lot.
I think it is easiest to say that it reads like a teenage Wattpad story. I have a lot of examples of why (yes already in the 40 pages that I've read, I have about 1-2 comments per page, hence why I couldn't continue reading), and what was off to me about the writing. If you want know more, please contact me, I will not write them here to not spoil anything for anyone else.
Let's just say logically a lot of things didn't make sense to me, people said things that wouldn't make sense to have been said in the situation and in their specific station. The instant smittenness of the MMC with the FMC is unrealistic, they are strangers and have exchanged about 5 sentences in a week. He is pining for her as if he's known her for a while and not just laid eyes on her 2 hours ago. Calling her 'beloved' is very out of place for them as they are strangers.
What made me stop reading in the end on page 43 was how the FMC took the role of 'we are in this together' even though, like I said, they don't know each other at all but they are acting as if they've been in a relationship for months/years. Furthermore, there is barely any world building and I'm lacking descriptions while reading.
In any case, I would really like to thank the author for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
Unfortunately I had to DNF this book, which is very unlike me as I will finish a book even if I don't completely like it or if I'm critical of the story. But I could simply not continue to read this one.
I hope that this book does find the right audience, I was very interested when I read the description so I am very disappointed that this one is not for me as I was looking forward to it a lot.
I think it is easiest to say that it reads like a teenage Wattpad story. I have a lot of examples of why (yes already in the 40 pages that I've read, I have about 1-2 comments per page, hence why I couldn't continue reading), and what was off to me about the writing. If you want know more, please contact me, I will not write them here to not spoil anything for anyone else.
Let's just say logically a lot of things didn't make sense to me, people said things that wouldn't make sense to have been said in the situation and in their specific station. The instant smittenness of the MMC with the FMC is unrealistic, they are strangers and have exchanged about 5 sentences in a week. He is pining for her as if he's known her for a while and not just laid eyes on her 2 hours ago. Calling her 'beloved' is very out of place for them as they are strangers.
What made me stop reading in the end on page 43 was how the FMC took the role of 'we are in this together' even though, like I said, they don't know each other at all but they are acting as if they've been in a relationship for months/years. Furthermore, there is barely any world building and I'm lacking descriptions while reading.
In any case, I would really like to thank the author for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
Thank you to the author for the eBook and for the opportunity to read and review it.
Overall, this book fell a little short for me in the beginning and I had a hard time continuing. I struggled a bit during the first half with connecting with the characters and their motivations. The dialogue between the two main characters, Rosalie and Lochlyn, just didn’t feel natural to me at first and I didn’t find their chemistry and connection to be very organic feeling. It seemed a little bit like they met, then just decided they were in love without much preamble. On their own, they are both interesting and intriguing characters, I just didn’t feel their connection at first. Rosalie is an intelligent and feisty woman who gets pushed into an arranged marriage by her terrible father and moved to a completely foreign to her part of the world. Lochlyn is a reclusive duke who is harboring secrets and tries to keep Rosalie at arms length at the beginning of their marriage while also falling completely in love with her.
After the halfway point of this book, the plot became much more intriguing. The pacing picked up and we started to get more world building. I enjoyed learning about the various “creatures” and how their powers manifested and had changed over the generations. Learning about the king and the Order of the Sun helped get me re-engaged in the story. I’m excited to see what happens in the second book. And although this book is the first in a series, the ending isn’t too crazy of a cliffhanger which is nice.
Things I enjoyed about this book:
- Touch her and die MMC
- Interesting creatures/magic system
- Arranged mariage trope
- Dragon and Phoenix shifters
Overall, this book fell a little short for me in the beginning and I had a hard time continuing. I struggled a bit during the first half with connecting with the characters and their motivations. The dialogue between the two main characters, Rosalie and Lochlyn, just didn’t feel natural to me at first and I didn’t find their chemistry and connection to be very organic feeling. It seemed a little bit like they met, then just decided they were in love without much preamble. On their own, they are both interesting and intriguing characters, I just didn’t feel their connection at first. Rosalie is an intelligent and feisty woman who gets pushed into an arranged marriage by her terrible father and moved to a completely foreign to her part of the world. Lochlyn is a reclusive duke who is harboring secrets and tries to keep Rosalie at arms length at the beginning of their marriage while also falling completely in love with her.
After the halfway point of this book, the plot became much more intriguing. The pacing picked up and we started to get more world building. I enjoyed learning about the various “creatures” and how their powers manifested and had changed over the generations. Learning about the king and the Order of the Sun helped get me re-engaged in the story. I’m excited to see what happens in the second book. And although this book is the first in a series, the ending isn’t too crazy of a cliffhanger which is nice.
Things I enjoyed about this book:
- Touch her and die MMC
- Interesting creatures/magic system
- Arranged mariage trope
- Dragon and Phoenix shifters
August 23, 2026
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to dive into book 2. It did move slow for me for a little over half of the book. I am not sure why, but right around 70% I plowed through the rest. I was hoping for a true slow burn romance, and I suppose in a way this is, but it lacked the tension and yearning that I typically find in one. It was still a sweet romance but I wanted that passion and sadly for me that fell short. Another thing that did bother me was the overuse of phrases like "You're a protective dragon." The term dragon said from the FMC to MMC was overused and just became a point of annoyance during a few chapters.
The world was nice and the main points the reader needed to understand things were hit for the most part. I think it would have been so much better with a touch more world building. I want the backstories, the history, how the world came to be etc.
Enough about the things that annoyed me or that I didn't like, let's move on to what I loved! I loved the idea of shifters and how they were portrayed. Also, let's be honest the FMC and MMC are sooo cute together and I love how he puts her first. While the first two thirds of the books were pretty predictable for me, I got sucked in the last part and was so consumed by the action and fast pace that it no longer mattered. This book is a good book 1 in the series, and I hope we got even more in depth in book 2!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and it is a good read for anyone who loves a romantasy, especially one with shifters and don't forget the drama and mystery!
I was given a copy of the book for free and this in no way shapes my review. All thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to dive into book 2. It did move slow for me for a little over half of the book. I am not sure why, but right around 70% I plowed through the rest. I was hoping for a true slow burn romance, and I suppose in a way this is, but it lacked the tension and yearning that I typically find in one. It was still a sweet romance but I wanted that passion and sadly for me that fell short. Another thing that did bother me was the overuse of phrases like "You're a protective dragon." The term dragon said from the FMC to MMC was overused and just became a point of annoyance during a few chapters.
The world was nice and the main points the reader needed to understand things were hit for the most part. I think it would have been so much better with a touch more world building. I want the backstories, the history, how the world came to be etc.
Enough about the things that annoyed me or that I didn't like, let's move on to what I loved! I loved the idea of shifters and how they were portrayed. Also, let's be honest the FMC and MMC are sooo cute together and I love how he puts her first. While the first two thirds of the books were pretty predictable for me, I got sucked in the last part and was so consumed by the action and fast pace that it no longer mattered. This book is a good book 1 in the series, and I hope we got even more in depth in book 2!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and it is a good read for anyone who loves a romantasy, especially one with shifters and don't forget the drama and mystery!
I was given a copy of the book for free and this in no way shapes my review. All thoughts are my own.
October 2, 2025
Thank you to the author and publisher for providing an arc of this book on NetGallery.
When I first read the description, I was excited to dive into three things: a dragon shifter, seeing how a pirate’s daughter would fit into a world of dragons, and a slow-burn romance. While we definitely got the dragon shifter aspect, I felt the other two elements were underdeveloped.
The FMC’s father being a pirate, for example, is mentioned only once and never really plays into the story. I had hoped it would add something different to her background, but it didn’t feel relevant. As for the romance, I was expecting a slow burn filled with tension and longing. Instead, the main characters are in love within the first 50 pages. If you enjoy a quick, straightforward romance, this will be right up your alley, but as someone who loves the slow-burn trope, I found myself missing that “will they, won’t they” excitement.
The pacing overall felt very rushed. For example, one moment the characters are just meeting, and the next, months have passed and their relationship has leapt forward significantly. Fast pacing isn’t always a bad thing, it did make the book an easy one day read. But I think the story could have been much stronger if it had slowed down to develop the worldbuilding, explore the characters’ emotions more, and build up the tension between them.
That said, I did enjoy the core plot and think there’s a lot of potential here. With more expansion on the setting and relationships, this could have been a truly standout read.
3/5 ⭐️
When I first read the description, I was excited to dive into three things: a dragon shifter, seeing how a pirate’s daughter would fit into a world of dragons, and a slow-burn romance. While we definitely got the dragon shifter aspect, I felt the other two elements were underdeveloped.
The FMC’s father being a pirate, for example, is mentioned only once and never really plays into the story. I had hoped it would add something different to her background, but it didn’t feel relevant. As for the romance, I was expecting a slow burn filled with tension and longing. Instead, the main characters are in love within the first 50 pages. If you enjoy a quick, straightforward romance, this will be right up your alley, but as someone who loves the slow-burn trope, I found myself missing that “will they, won’t they” excitement.
The pacing overall felt very rushed. For example, one moment the characters are just meeting, and the next, months have passed and their relationship has leapt forward significantly. Fast pacing isn’t always a bad thing, it did make the book an easy one day read. But I think the story could have been much stronger if it had slowed down to develop the worldbuilding, explore the characters’ emotions more, and build up the tension between them.
That said, I did enjoy the core plot and think there’s a lot of potential here. With more expansion on the setting and relationships, this could have been a truly standout read.
3/5 ⭐️
October 8, 2025
[Arc Review]
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the Arc copy. All opinions are my own.
I was really excited by the blurb for Phoenix Rising. Unfortunately, I don’t think the blurb is doing the story we actually get any favours, and is ultimately attracting the wrong audience.
Arranged marriage with our main characters occupying opposite ends of the castle had me expecting a slow-burn, enemies to lovers, tension filled banter fest. Instead, we get a sickeningly sweet insta-love, instant family romance complete with pet names and cliches. Pirates, dragons and other mythological creatures? Sign me up!! In actuality, the fantasy world building was so superficial it was essentially a thin wrapper around a saccharine love story. And “pirates” were a few throw away references that had no real bearing on the story. A cynical person may think they were included just because pirate romance/romantasy/dark romance are all so popular right now.
The dialogue is often repetitive and sometimes veers into cringey. I think the author was trying to go for a writing style that blends a cheeky and sarcastic narrator while trying to bring some edge to the fantasy world by incorporating modern lingo. It doesn’t quite hit the mark here, but perhaps it’s a voice that can be refined with time.
For someone who likes their romance with a dash of fantasy and is looking for a sweet, insta-love easy read this could be the novel for you. For anyone who enjoys more depth of characters and world-building this likely won’t scratch that itch.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the Arc copy. All opinions are my own.
I was really excited by the blurb for Phoenix Rising. Unfortunately, I don’t think the blurb is doing the story we actually get any favours, and is ultimately attracting the wrong audience.
Arranged marriage with our main characters occupying opposite ends of the castle had me expecting a slow-burn, enemies to lovers, tension filled banter fest. Instead, we get a sickeningly sweet insta-love, instant family romance complete with pet names and cliches. Pirates, dragons and other mythological creatures? Sign me up!! In actuality, the fantasy world building was so superficial it was essentially a thin wrapper around a saccharine love story. And “pirates” were a few throw away references that had no real bearing on the story. A cynical person may think they were included just because pirate romance/romantasy/dark romance are all so popular right now.
The dialogue is often repetitive and sometimes veers into cringey. I think the author was trying to go for a writing style that blends a cheeky and sarcastic narrator while trying to bring some edge to the fantasy world by incorporating modern lingo. It doesn’t quite hit the mark here, but perhaps it’s a voice that can be refined with time.
For someone who likes their romance with a dash of fantasy and is looking for a sweet, insta-love easy read this could be the novel for you. For anyone who enjoys more depth of characters and world-building this likely won’t scratch that itch.
August 4, 2026
Phoenix Rising by Jennifer Allis Provost
Thank you, Jennifer Allis Provost, for the free copy of this book.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review; all opinions are my own.
Phoenix Rising is a Romantasy that begins with an arranged marriage. Though internally they both fall for each other at first sight, married life starts off rather rough for them. As with any relationship, much of the frustrations lie in their need for open communication and honesty.
It was a lot of dialogue in the first half of the book, as the focus was on world building and character development. The second half is where it got pretty interesting. The unfolding truths, plot twists, royal court intrigue, and underlying conspiracy is what kept me wanting to know how it all plays out. I am fortunate to have gotten this free copy along with the ARC for book two, Dragon Descending, because it does end with loose ends.
I have a love for books involving dragons, phoenixes, and the likes. Other aspects I really liked was the network of spies acting in the background and the sense of found family. So if any or all of those are your pulls, this book is for you, but you will should also plan to read the next book due to unresolved aspects. The characters did frustrate me in the beginning, but once matters were resolved, it was the plot leading to the end of the book that kept me hooked and eager to continue onward in book two - Dragon Descending.
“…trust in Fate, because even the greatest tragedy can hold the seeds of future happiness”
Thank you, Jennifer Allis Provost, for the free copy of this book.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review; all opinions are my own.
Phoenix Rising is a Romantasy that begins with an arranged marriage. Though internally they both fall for each other at first sight, married life starts off rather rough for them. As with any relationship, much of the frustrations lie in their need for open communication and honesty.
It was a lot of dialogue in the first half of the book, as the focus was on world building and character development. The second half is where it got pretty interesting. The unfolding truths, plot twists, royal court intrigue, and underlying conspiracy is what kept me wanting to know how it all plays out. I am fortunate to have gotten this free copy along with the ARC for book two, Dragon Descending, because it does end with loose ends.
I have a love for books involving dragons, phoenixes, and the likes. Other aspects I really liked was the network of spies acting in the background and the sense of found family. So if any or all of those are your pulls, this book is for you, but you will should also plan to read the next book due to unresolved aspects. The characters did frustrate me in the beginning, but once matters were resolved, it was the plot leading to the end of the book that kept me hooked and eager to continue onward in book two - Dragon Descending.
“…trust in Fate, because even the greatest tragedy can hold the seeds of future happiness”
August 13, 2026
Phoenix Rising was such a sweet and easy romantasy! It was one of those books that just flowed really well and was so easy to keep reading.
Rosalie, a quiet bookworm, enters an arranged marriage with Lochlyn, the last dragon shifter. There’s definitely some insta-love happening, but I actually didn’t mind it here. They’re both genuinely sweet characters, and I really liked them together. Their relationship does have its frustrating moments though, especially when a little communication could have solved A LOT.
The first half is more focused on the characters and world-building, so it does start off a little slower. But the second half is where things really picked up for me. We get more of the mysteries, royal court intrigue, secrets, conspiracies, and some twists that made me want to keep reading.
And of course… dragons, phoenixes AND basilisks? Yes please! I also really enjoyed the found-family aspect and everything happening behind the scenes with the spies.
I wouldn't necessarily call this super high-stakes fantasy despite everything going on. It felt more easygoing and comforting, with enough mystery and drama sprinkled in to keep things interesting. There are still quite a few unanswered questions by the end, so I'm definitely curious to see where everything goes in Dragon Descending.
Overall, a really enjoyable start to the series and such an easy read. Sometimes you just need nice characters, a sweet romance, some magical creatures, and a little royal conspiracy.
Rosalie, a quiet bookworm, enters an arranged marriage with Lochlyn, the last dragon shifter. There’s definitely some insta-love happening, but I actually didn’t mind it here. They’re both genuinely sweet characters, and I really liked them together. Their relationship does have its frustrating moments though, especially when a little communication could have solved A LOT.
The first half is more focused on the characters and world-building, so it does start off a little slower. But the second half is where things really picked up for me. We get more of the mysteries, royal court intrigue, secrets, conspiracies, and some twists that made me want to keep reading.
And of course… dragons, phoenixes AND basilisks? Yes please! I also really enjoyed the found-family aspect and everything happening behind the scenes with the spies.
I wouldn't necessarily call this super high-stakes fantasy despite everything going on. It felt more easygoing and comforting, with enough mystery and drama sprinkled in to keep things interesting. There are still quite a few unanswered questions by the end, so I'm definitely curious to see where everything goes in Dragon Descending.
Overall, a really enjoyable start to the series and such an easy read. Sometimes you just need nice characters, a sweet romance, some magical creatures, and a little royal conspiracy.
August 23, 2026
An arranged marriage that could become something so much more in this slow burn, dragon shifter fantasy.
You follow the FMC, Rosalie, who was meant to join the convent upon her next birthday and retire there and spend her days among the books she loved. But when just days before her wedding to a Duke, her sister flees with her guard who became her lover, he father forces her to take her place in the marriage contract and marry the Black Duke - the last remnant of the dragon shifter line. Little does she know that this Duke, Lochlyn, would not be the dark evil man she suspected but instead be someone kind who just wants to take care of her, and allows her the freedom to be who she wants and won’t force her to stay, even if he is enraptured by her. They form a tentative bond that they each hope will grow with time.
I enjoyed the magical elements of this book and all the different types of shifters that came into play in the book. Dragons are always my favorite so the Duke has the best form, but after some reveals there’s another with a phoenix form that I think is a close second! I liked getting to see the characters circle around each other and not really know what to do about the situation they were in but also seemingly care for one another and after some miscommunications were resolved, put in the effort to be happy in their marriage. It was fun seeing how fast the MMC fell for the FMC and I love a he fell first. Overall this was a fun read, my rating 4.1/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC, Rosalie, who was meant to join the convent upon her next birthday and retire there and spend her days among the books she loved. But when just days before her wedding to a Duke, her sister flees with her guard who became her lover, he father forces her to take her place in the marriage contract and marry the Black Duke - the last remnant of the dragon shifter line. Little does she know that this Duke, Lochlyn, would not be the dark evil man she suspected but instead be someone kind who just wants to take care of her, and allows her the freedom to be who she wants and won’t force her to stay, even if he is enraptured by her. They form a tentative bond that they each hope will grow with time.
I enjoyed the magical elements of this book and all the different types of shifters that came into play in the book. Dragons are always my favorite so the Duke has the best form, but after some reveals there’s another with a phoenix form that I think is a close second! I liked getting to see the characters circle around each other and not really know what to do about the situation they were in but also seemingly care for one another and after some miscommunications were resolved, put in the effort to be happy in their marriage. It was fun seeing how fast the MMC fell for the FMC and I love a he fell first. Overall this was a fun read, my rating 4.1/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
November 7, 2025
✶✶✶ / 5 𝔰𝔱𝔞𝔯𝔰 ꔫ
This book sounded so interesting that I just knew I had to give it a go and find out what it was all about. The story follows Rosalie, the second daughter of a pirate turned landowner. After begging her father to send her to a convent, she instead finds herself forced to replace her older sister in a marriage contract to Lochlyn Blackmoor, after her sister ran off with her lover. Lochlyn, the last dragon shifter, must marry out of duty to sire an heir. Thrown together by circumstance, the two slowly begin to find comfort in one another.
That’s kind of it really — the more interesting elements, like her father being a pirate, didn’t end up being relevant at all. Rosalie and Lochlyn basically fell in love straight away, with very little tension and honestly barely any chemistry. You’d think that a man marrying purely out of duty to sire an heir, who then has to wed his intended’s sister after she runs off with her lover, would leave plenty of room for angst and tension… but I was indeed wrong.
The pet names were also slightly overbearing, I’m not entirely sure what that was all about. The pacing felt rushed, and their relationship jumped ahead far too quickly, which left much to be desired.
Overall, the plot itself was good and has a lot of potential. With tighter editing and a more drawn out romance, this could easily become a very good book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bellatrix Press.
This book sounded so interesting that I just knew I had to give it a go and find out what it was all about. The story follows Rosalie, the second daughter of a pirate turned landowner. After begging her father to send her to a convent, she instead finds herself forced to replace her older sister in a marriage contract to Lochlyn Blackmoor, after her sister ran off with her lover. Lochlyn, the last dragon shifter, must marry out of duty to sire an heir. Thrown together by circumstance, the two slowly begin to find comfort in one another.
That’s kind of it really — the more interesting elements, like her father being a pirate, didn’t end up being relevant at all. Rosalie and Lochlyn basically fell in love straight away, with very little tension and honestly barely any chemistry. You’d think that a man marrying purely out of duty to sire an heir, who then has to wed his intended’s sister after she runs off with her lover, would leave plenty of room for angst and tension… but I was indeed wrong.
The pet names were also slightly overbearing, I’m not entirely sure what that was all about. The pacing felt rushed, and their relationship jumped ahead far too quickly, which left much to be desired.
Overall, the plot itself was good and has a lot of potential. With tighter editing and a more drawn out romance, this could easily become a very good book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bellatrix Press.
November 23, 2025
The description of this book interested me because of the dragon rider and a pirate's daughter, I figured it would be an interesting story. And it was, but it definitely did give me the kind of story that I was expecting.
This story notes that it is a slow burn romance, but there was no tension or longing. The romance instead develops quickly. I also feel as though the world was not fully developed and there was no dive into Rosalie's history and only really talks about her pirate father once. I really was expected more of that to come, but there was nothing.
Rosalie has to marry Lochlyn instead of her sister because sister runs off with her lover. You would think there might be some dislike or mistrust type issues with this newly forced marriage arrangement but again it was just you have to do this, okay now we are in a relationship and so in love.
Pet names seemed to be their identity after the relationship began, to the point that it was too much. The pace was really fast but made the story go by quickly so it was an easy read, but I wish it was slower and more developed.
Aside from the absence of the slow burn romance, it was still a sweet romance and enjoyable, I just wish there was more angst or world building to fully develop the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Bellatrix Press for sharing this story with me before release day. All of my opinions are my own.
This story notes that it is a slow burn romance, but there was no tension or longing. The romance instead develops quickly. I also feel as though the world was not fully developed and there was no dive into Rosalie's history and only really talks about her pirate father once. I really was expected more of that to come, but there was nothing.
Rosalie has to marry Lochlyn instead of her sister because sister runs off with her lover. You would think there might be some dislike or mistrust type issues with this newly forced marriage arrangement but again it was just you have to do this, okay now we are in a relationship and so in love.
Pet names seemed to be their identity after the relationship began, to the point that it was too much. The pace was really fast but made the story go by quickly so it was an easy read, but I wish it was slower and more developed.
Aside from the absence of the slow burn romance, it was still a sweet romance and enjoyable, I just wish there was more angst or world building to fully develop the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Bellatrix Press for sharing this story with me before release day. All of my opinions are my own.
August 11, 2026
I was very kindly sent a copy of this book, my opinions, as always, are my own. Thank you so much to Ms Provost!
Firstly, this is an insta-love book so, if that's not something you like, you should probably not try it. As it's a fantasy setting and I'm not here for the romance but for the overarching plot, I was fine with it.
Second, there are unfortunately continuity errors which I believe were meant to point in the direction of the final clash and all, but they serve only to make a reader sigh because information - the same, mind - gets repeated by several different people to each other, every time apparently new, when it isn't.
Thirdly, Rosalie spins faster than a spinning top, managing to fluctuate from reasonable to OHMYGOD HE *MUST* HAVE A LOVER in about 2 full sentences on page.
Miss ma'am. This is a Wendy's. Take a chill pill and actually think before you throw yourself into a canyon because your dramatic booty makes decisions based on the next flavour someone sells you is best.
THAT ASIDE, I actually enjoyed Lochlyn and the book as a whole. It has great bones, introduces an interesting world, a mystery that will hopefully continue being elaborated on, and characters that - while flawed - are endearing enough you do want to keep on reading.
For me, while Rosie and Lochlyn may flounder and occasionally seem way too immature for their positions, they also have hearts of gold and I want to see them succeed. I'll be reading Dragon Descending just as soon as I can!
Firstly, this is an insta-love book so, if that's not something you like, you should probably not try it. As it's a fantasy setting and I'm not here for the romance but for the overarching plot, I was fine with it.
Second, there are unfortunately continuity errors which I believe were meant to point in the direction of the final clash and all, but they serve only to make a reader sigh because information - the same, mind - gets repeated by several different people to each other, every time apparently new, when it isn't.
Thirdly, Rosalie spins faster than a spinning top, managing to fluctuate from reasonable to OHMYGOD HE *MUST* HAVE A LOVER in about 2 full sentences on page.
Miss ma'am. This is a Wendy's. Take a chill pill and actually think before you throw yourself into a canyon because your dramatic booty makes decisions based on the next flavour someone sells you is best.
THAT ASIDE, I actually enjoyed Lochlyn and the book as a whole. It has great bones, introduces an interesting world, a mystery that will hopefully continue being elaborated on, and characters that - while flawed - are endearing enough you do want to keep on reading.
For me, while Rosie and Lochlyn may flounder and occasionally seem way too immature for their positions, they also have hearts of gold and I want to see them succeed. I'll be reading Dragon Descending just as soon as I can!
November 3, 2025
I really like the idea of this book. I think a story about a sister who wasn't supposed to be a part of an arranged marriage getting roped into it, and later realizing she's been married to a dragon shifter (with political unrest and general unhinged mayhem thrown in) sounds incredibly gripping. I was really disappointed by the instalove between the FMC and the MMC. Instalove to the point that there wasn't even really chemistry between them, they just (BOTH OF THEM) started using pet names and being generally cringey and in love with no basis other than the fact that they were sort of forced into this marriage. If the relationship between them had been better developed I think I would have enjoyed the story more, because after they established that they loved each other and moved on to dealing with the issues the kingdom was facing the story wasn't so bad. I wish there was a bit more worldbuilding, but I liked (spoiler alert!) Rosalie's hidden Phoenix shifter ability and I found the reason she was unable to access those abilities super interesting! The ending kind of fizzles out and seems to stop abruptly. There are several unanswered bits to be answered in the next book (I'm assuming) but the way that the story ended just seemed a little unpolished. Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!
November 25, 2025
When I read the blurb for this story, I was very intrigued. It sounded like a fantasy right up my alley. However, I was so dissapointed. When I was at the 70% mark, I had to look up other reviews to see if I was the only one feeling this way about the book. It didn't surprise me that a lot of people felt the same way as me.
The story feels very rushed, with subplots introduced every other chapter, but then resolved within that same chapter or the next. If all of these subplots were plotted out a bit more, this whole book could have been 3 full fledged novels. After I finished the book, I felt like so much had happened and nothing at the same time.
Of the tropes promised to me, everything felt very flat. It says they're staying at opposite ends of the castle, which is true, but it does imply some sort of animosity between the two, which isn't true. They have insta-love, which isn't something I enjoy reading about. Also, Rosalie hiding the biggest secret of all should have been kept a secret until the end. It would have made for such a fun cliffhanger reveal. But no, it was revealed in the most basic way and also solved in the most basic way. They could have done so much more with it, which is sad.
Thank you Netgalley and Jennifer Allis Provost for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
The story feels very rushed, with subplots introduced every other chapter, but then resolved within that same chapter or the next. If all of these subplots were plotted out a bit more, this whole book could have been 3 full fledged novels. After I finished the book, I felt like so much had happened and nothing at the same time.
Of the tropes promised to me, everything felt very flat. It says they're staying at opposite ends of the castle, which is true, but it does imply some sort of animosity between the two, which isn't true. They have insta-love, which isn't something I enjoy reading about. Also, Rosalie hiding the biggest secret of all should have been kept a secret until the end. It would have made for such a fun cliffhanger reveal. But no, it was revealed in the most basic way and also solved in the most basic way. They could have done so much more with it, which is sad.
Thank you Netgalley and Jennifer Allis Provost for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
October 7, 2025
Fated mates, arranged marriage, shifter romance, reclaim your power, all sounds great but I sadly found this book lacking. The romance was almost instantaneous, the were holes throughout the story, Everything felt rushed. The dialogue was repetitive and the pet names were too numerous. I really really wanted to love this story, and while it has great potential, it felt more like an alpha read.
The book description really draws you in. It seems like it’s going to be action packed with suspense and lots of great things but the problems they encountered seemed trivial and easily solved. I completely missed the part where they “ bring a kindom to its knees”. The story just didn’t seem to fit the description. The end of the book felt incomplete and rushed.
I did enjoy the read, although, I had to really push through it. There were some good quotes. I would definitely like to finish the story. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next for Rosalie, Lochlyn, and the other characters we were introduced to in the book. The book absolutely was not terrible by any means. I just expected so much more.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book description really draws you in. It seems like it’s going to be action packed with suspense and lots of great things but the problems they encountered seemed trivial and easily solved. I completely missed the part where they “ bring a kindom to its knees”. The story just didn’t seem to fit the description. The end of the book felt incomplete and rushed.
I did enjoy the read, although, I had to really push through it. There were some good quotes. I would definitely like to finish the story. I am looking forward to seeing what comes next for Rosalie, Lochlyn, and the other characters we were introduced to in the book. The book absolutely was not terrible by any means. I just expected so much more.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2025
Phoenix Rising had a lot of promise, and while there were elements I genuinely enjoyed, it ultimately fell a bit flat for me. The concept—particularly the world of dragons, phoenixes, and other shifters—is intriguing, and I loved the hints of mythology woven throughout. That aspect alone gives me hope for the rest of the series.
However, the plot felt underwhelming. The tension and stakes were surprisingly low, especially for a story involving an arranged marriage and supernatural beings. The central relationship felt a little too perfect—there was no real angst, conflict, or emotional build-up that would have made the romance feel earned. It just didn’t feel entirely believable.
That said, the characters were likable, and I can see the potential for them to grow into more dynamic roles as the series progresses. I’m holding out hope that the second book will offer a tighter plot, more action, and a deeper dive into the rich mythology hinted at in this one.
Overall, Phoenix Rising didn’t quite deliver the punch I was hoping for, but I’m still curious enough to continue with the series and see where it goes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, the plot felt underwhelming. The tension and stakes were surprisingly low, especially for a story involving an arranged marriage and supernatural beings. The central relationship felt a little too perfect—there was no real angst, conflict, or emotional build-up that would have made the romance feel earned. It just didn’t feel entirely believable.
That said, the characters were likable, and I can see the potential for them to grow into more dynamic roles as the series progresses. I’m holding out hope that the second book will offer a tighter plot, more action, and a deeper dive into the rich mythology hinted at in this one.
Overall, Phoenix Rising didn’t quite deliver the punch I was hoping for, but I’m still curious enough to continue with the series and see where it goes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2025
I was one of the fortunate to be granted an arc of this book.
I really enjoyed Phoenix Rising. It’s a romance with the last dragon shifter, plus phoenixes and all the mythic vibes that made the story feel alive. The mix of romance and fantasy kept me hooked and gave me that satisfying escape I was looking for.
Rosalie was such a relatable character - quiet, overlooked, underestimated, and stronger than anyone expected. Watching her relationship with Lochlyn unfold had that perfect mix of tension, vulnerability, and connection that made me want to keep turning pages. The added thread of her sister added another emotional spark, reminding me that family bonds can be just as complicated and powerful as destiny.
This book gave me heart, adventure, and that feeling of being swept away into a world where love and mythic creatures collide. And honestly, I can’t wait to see where the story leads next. It feels like the beginning of something even bigger.
This book gave me heart, adventure, and that rare feeling of being swept away into a world where love and mythic creatures collide. And honestly, I can’t wait to see where the story leads next. It feels like the beginning of something even bigger
I really enjoyed Phoenix Rising. It’s a romance with the last dragon shifter, plus phoenixes and all the mythic vibes that made the story feel alive. The mix of romance and fantasy kept me hooked and gave me that satisfying escape I was looking for.
Rosalie was such a relatable character - quiet, overlooked, underestimated, and stronger than anyone expected. Watching her relationship with Lochlyn unfold had that perfect mix of tension, vulnerability, and connection that made me want to keep turning pages. The added thread of her sister added another emotional spark, reminding me that family bonds can be just as complicated and powerful as destiny.
This book gave me heart, adventure, and that feeling of being swept away into a world where love and mythic creatures collide. And honestly, I can’t wait to see where the story leads next. It feels like the beginning of something even bigger.
This book gave me heart, adventure, and that rare feeling of being swept away into a world where love and mythic creatures collide. And honestly, I can’t wait to see where the story leads next. It feels like the beginning of something even bigger
November 13, 2025
Arranged marriage, fated mates instant family and shifters.
I really enjoyed this book i enjoyed the world building at the beginning how the dragons phoenix’s and other creatures came from another realm and took route in human relam. How Rosalie and lochlyn slow progression in their marriage became to realisation they are fated mates and that she is accepting to who he is a dragon shifter. Where they go on a rescue mission to save caterina and curran for rosalie to find out shes actually a phoenix that she was bound to her mother protecting her from her father. I also loved the fact some people could shift into different forms from warrior which partial form or to full on dragon, phoenix, stag or basilisk etc
There was some bits i found ok from them taking on caterinas baby then adopting 3 more children to protect the identity of caterinas baby
The bit i would like to know is why were maps stolen what is the purpose of the maps and what were maps of and will we find out in the next book
I really enjoyed this book i enjoyed the world building at the beginning how the dragons phoenix’s and other creatures came from another realm and took route in human relam. How Rosalie and lochlyn slow progression in their marriage became to realisation they are fated mates and that she is accepting to who he is a dragon shifter. Where they go on a rescue mission to save caterina and curran for rosalie to find out shes actually a phoenix that she was bound to her mother protecting her from her father. I also loved the fact some people could shift into different forms from warrior which partial form or to full on dragon, phoenix, stag or basilisk etc
There was some bits i found ok from them taking on caterinas baby then adopting 3 more children to protect the identity of caterinas baby
The bit i would like to know is why were maps stolen what is the purpose of the maps and what were maps of and will we find out in the next book
November 25, 2025
Honestly, I wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t land for me. Rosalie and Lochlyn went from polite strangers to declarations of love, four adopted kids, and a pregnancy way too fast. The setup had potential for tension, but the romance basically skipped over all of it, leaving the slow burn feeling nonexistent. I did enjoy the worldbuilding hints but most of it barely showed up in the story. Her father’s pirate past got a single mention and was never relevant, and Rosalie’s phoenix identity revealed too late to give the story any real spark. The characters and their backgrounds could have added so much depth if the story had taken its time. The pacing was the main issue, everything moved too quickly, That said, it wasn’t bad. The core idea had charm, and there were moments that made me curious I just kept wishing the story slowed down enough to make me care more. Thank you so much to the author and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
August 21, 2026
This book for me is 3.5⭐️ but I didn’t want to pull it down to a 3 in the rating so 4 it is.
It is not your typical romantasy love story (though there is touch her and die - my favroite). The love story part is sweet, a love they found from an arranged marriage. I will agree with other reviewers- it feels like they go from 0-60 super fast.
For me the story picks up more when they get to the capital. You have political scheming, true lineages being discovered, and battle against the king’s court. That’s the part I’m looking forward to seeing more of in the next book. Plus the addition of more adult characters to the manor should make for more variety of storyline (the romance went so fast I’m hoping book two shows more other stuff and less romance we hit all the main points already lol).
It’s a cute read. There are dragon (and other) shifters so bonus points there. If you are looking for the ACOTAR, Plated Prisoner, FBAA type of romantasy books you won’t like it. But if you are cool with an easy insta love read you should pick it up.
It is not your typical romantasy love story (though there is touch her and die - my favroite). The love story part is sweet, a love they found from an arranged marriage. I will agree with other reviewers- it feels like they go from 0-60 super fast.
For me the story picks up more when they get to the capital. You have political scheming, true lineages being discovered, and battle against the king’s court. That’s the part I’m looking forward to seeing more of in the next book. Plus the addition of more adult characters to the manor should make for more variety of storyline (the romance went so fast I’m hoping book two shows more other stuff and less romance we hit all the main points already lol).
It’s a cute read. There are dragon (and other) shifters so bonus points there. If you are looking for the ACOTAR, Plated Prisoner, FBAA type of romantasy books you won’t like it. But if you are cool with an easy insta love read you should pick it up.
November 22, 2025
2.5⭐️
Rosalie is the bookworm, illegitimate daughter of a landowner who finds herself married off to the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge when her sister—the intended bride—runs away with her lover.
Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. The premise was exciting, with an arranged marriage trope, forced proximity, and hints of fated mates and dragons. But I found the worldbuilding a bit lacking, and the romance leaned heavily toward insta-love without the foundation needed to make it believable. The dialogue and plot often felt rushed, which made it harder for me to fully invest in the development of feelings.
Still, I did really enjoy the mythology and the variety of magical creature lore woven throughout the story.
Readers who enjoy romantasy with fated mates, arranged marriage, and a fast-moving plot will enjoy this one!
Thank you to Bellatrix Press and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Rosalie is the bookworm, illegitimate daughter of a landowner who finds herself married off to the infamous Black Duke of Dragon Ridge when her sister—the intended bride—runs away with her lover.
Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work for me. The premise was exciting, with an arranged marriage trope, forced proximity, and hints of fated mates and dragons. But I found the worldbuilding a bit lacking, and the romance leaned heavily toward insta-love without the foundation needed to make it believable. The dialogue and plot often felt rushed, which made it harder for me to fully invest in the development of feelings.
Still, I did really enjoy the mythology and the variety of magical creature lore woven throughout the story.
Readers who enjoy romantasy with fated mates, arranged marriage, and a fast-moving plot will enjoy this one!
Thank you to Bellatrix Press and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
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