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Song of the Heart Scale
You’d think surviving dragons, doppelgänger drama, and a fated twin flame bond would earn a girl a break—but no, not in Elaria.
I’m Cat, and I’ve officially hit the third act of my fantasy nightmare. There’s famine sweeping the land, war brewing like a badly-timed sequel, and—plot twist!—Damien Drakonar, the infuriatingly hot dragon prince I may or may not love, is now facing off against his own brother, Crown Prince Thorne. Yeah. Family dinners are awkward.
Oh, and did I mention the whole “I’ve been promised to another” situation? Because nothing says “happily ever after” like a surprise royal engagement and a kingdom on the verge of collapse.
As swords clash and secrets surface, I’m stuck between two worlds—my old life in L.A., with takeout and traffic, or this new one where I might just help shape the fate of an entire realm… and maybe even find my own. But choosing love over everything? That’s a risk even Hollywood couldn’t choreograph.
This is it—the final battle, the last song. So buckle up. Things are about to get dragon-level dramatic.
I’m Cat, and I’ve officially hit the third act of my fantasy nightmare. There’s famine sweeping the land, war brewing like a badly-timed sequel, and—plot twist!—Damien Drakonar, the infuriatingly hot dragon prince I may or may not love, is now facing off against his own brother, Crown Prince Thorne. Yeah. Family dinners are awkward.
Oh, and did I mention the whole “I’ve been promised to another” situation? Because nothing says “happily ever after” like a surprise royal engagement and a kingdom on the verge of collapse.
As swords clash and secrets surface, I’m stuck between two worlds—my old life in L.A., with takeout and traffic, or this new one where I might just help shape the fate of an entire realm… and maybe even find my own. But choosing love over everything? That’s a risk even Hollywood couldn’t choreograph.
This is it—the final battle, the last song. So buckle up. Things are about to get dragon-level dramatic.
- GenresRomantasy
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2025
16 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Karina Espinosa
107 books466 followersKarina Espinosa is a Colombian-American author best known for the Mackenzie Grey series, the Blood Weaver Trilogy, and her latest romantasy hit, The Dragon’s Ballad. When she’s not writing fierce heroines and magical chaos, she’s globe-trotting, bingeing Asian dramas, or teaching college students how to write essays—with a coffee in hand and fictional body count on the rise.
Follow her for more coffee-fueled chaos and character heartbreak.
Follow her for more coffee-fueled chaos and character heartbreak.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 21, 2025
The cover of this book fits really well with the rest of the trilogy, I think they will stand out on a bookstore shelf, and I bet they look amazing on a book shelf at home, too!
In Elaria, things have changed, Cat is no longer the favoured daughter she once was. Gianna has seen Cat's tattoo so knows something strange is going on and has shared her discovery with Lord Zacharia. Lord Zacharia doesn't care whether it's Lady Arya or not and wants nothing more than to marry this 'person', whoever she is off to Crown Prince Thorne as it will secure the Ryder family future. The Ryder family is in dire straits without this marriage, so the sooner the wedding goes ahead, the better for their financial and public standing.
Cat is 'going through the motions' with the preparations for her impending marriage to Crown Prince Thorne and theres a great, humorous scene where she is talking about batcholorette parties of her own world/present day LA with Maeve her servant who has become more of a best friend and confidante. Cat is embarrassing Maeve talking about how, at home in LA, there would be men stripping and dancing & hip thrusting in the brides face.
When something 'big' happens, it comes with 'big' consequences. It's good news for Cat, her wedding is put on hold, but bad for Elaria when the Immortals are angered and the lives of those in Elaria are in danger.
I loved that Damien, the protector, is willing to go to war for the people of Elaria yet not really wanting anything in return for himself. He had a tough battle ahead before he could even consider what he was going to do at the next storm.
His Uncle Bai has reservations about Damien leaving with Cat, whilst he wants him to be happy, he reminds Damien to consider he may lose his dragon, his abilities and what if he is immortal in a strange world where he would have to watch Cat age and die? There's a lot for Damien to consider as he also wants to make sure he is leaving Elaria in capable, safe hands, too.
Cat & Damien plan an attack on his own brother Thorne, they gather supporters from fae to the esteemed Nightwing army. Then, amidst the preparations, Cat and Maeve are picked up as troublemakers whilst at the market. They end up in Thornes' dungeon. In an attempt to save Maeve from punishment and possible torture, Cat makes sure she is taken first. Cat tries to convince Thornes men who she is, but when her clothing is ripped and they see her tattoo, they refuse to believe her, saying Lady Arya would never have such markings on her skin. Eventually, Thorne hears about a prisoner claiming to be Lady Arya and goes to investigate. He takes her from the dungeons, and on her insistence, he takes Maeve from the dungeons to please Cat. Things soon get ugly between Cat and Thorne. Luckily, the cavalry arrive in the form of Damien and their army of supporters.
The scene is chaotic, but Damien is determined to rescue Cat, whom he has declared his love for and also end his brother tyranny. There's a surprise visit from an Immortal who delivers some shocking news to Damien.
In LA, Lady Arya is finally settling in a job and with Angie, Cat's friend's help, actually earning some money. I loved the idea of Lady Arya's artistic gifts from her world, being transformed into being a talented makeup artist.
At the beginning of the series, I was initially curious about Lady Arya and wanted more content about her in LA along with Cat in Elaria. In bk2, we did get more of Lady Arya in LA and we were introduced to how she was doing in LA, but I really didn't like her character at all, and I didn't warm up to the character anymore at all in bk2, I guess thats the reason I wasn't as interested in her part of the story, though I'll be honest I was so impatient for more from Cat and Damien and to learn what was going on in Elaria. In bk3, we do get some more about Lady Arya in LA, during which I finally warmed up to Lady Arya, which I actually enjoyed Lady Arya's escapades/life as Cat and her increasing closeness to Angie and her interactions with the cheating ex! It had me wondering if there could have been a hint at a romantic relationship between the pair. Would Lady have wanted to stay in LA, or maybe Angie would go back with her to Elaria?
It's difficult to explain whilst not giving away spoilers, but here goes, I was really sad at the loss of a character i had adored, though the death fit well with the plot and was totally believable. The book had a good ending, but it wasn't the ending I was yearning for. I was surprised by the revelation from the Immortal Azareth when he visits shortly after the battle. I enjoyed the fact all the different people came together to fight the evil, tyrannical Thorne Valenor.
Characters I loved, Maeve was my favourite human character she truly became a best friend to Cat. Of course, I loved the smart mouthed, up for a fight, Cat, and the relationship she developed with the banished dragon without a precious heart scale Damien.
I adored all the folklore elements, and the ballads were amazing. They told of the ancient prophecy of the twin flames, which I loved the concept of.
The epilogue was a nice touch, though it would have been nice to learn a little more about how Damien had adapted and where he worked? What did Cat's friends think about him? It did hint at what the future holds for Cat & Damien, which I liked.
There were some more intimate scenes that got a bit overly explicit for my personal taste and were quite surprising as there were no hints at this in the previous book in the trilogy.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing the book were Wow! That was a fast read, I read half the book in one go! I did not want to put it down.
Summing up, though the ending wasn't what I was expecting or hoping for, I still liked it! Another great series by Karina Espinosa!
In Elaria, things have changed, Cat is no longer the favoured daughter she once was. Gianna has seen Cat's tattoo so knows something strange is going on and has shared her discovery with Lord Zacharia. Lord Zacharia doesn't care whether it's Lady Arya or not and wants nothing more than to marry this 'person', whoever she is off to Crown Prince Thorne as it will secure the Ryder family future. The Ryder family is in dire straits without this marriage, so the sooner the wedding goes ahead, the better for their financial and public standing.
Cat is 'going through the motions' with the preparations for her impending marriage to Crown Prince Thorne and theres a great, humorous scene where she is talking about batcholorette parties of her own world/present day LA with Maeve her servant who has become more of a best friend and confidante. Cat is embarrassing Maeve talking about how, at home in LA, there would be men stripping and dancing & hip thrusting in the brides face.
When something 'big' happens, it comes with 'big' consequences. It's good news for Cat, her wedding is put on hold, but bad for Elaria when the Immortals are angered and the lives of those in Elaria are in danger.
I loved that Damien, the protector, is willing to go to war for the people of Elaria yet not really wanting anything in return for himself. He had a tough battle ahead before he could even consider what he was going to do at the next storm.
His Uncle Bai has reservations about Damien leaving with Cat, whilst he wants him to be happy, he reminds Damien to consider he may lose his dragon, his abilities and what if he is immortal in a strange world where he would have to watch Cat age and die? There's a lot for Damien to consider as he also wants to make sure he is leaving Elaria in capable, safe hands, too.
Cat & Damien plan an attack on his own brother Thorne, they gather supporters from fae to the esteemed Nightwing army. Then, amidst the preparations, Cat and Maeve are picked up as troublemakers whilst at the market. They end up in Thornes' dungeon. In an attempt to save Maeve from punishment and possible torture, Cat makes sure she is taken first. Cat tries to convince Thornes men who she is, but when her clothing is ripped and they see her tattoo, they refuse to believe her, saying Lady Arya would never have such markings on her skin. Eventually, Thorne hears about a prisoner claiming to be Lady Arya and goes to investigate. He takes her from the dungeons, and on her insistence, he takes Maeve from the dungeons to please Cat. Things soon get ugly between Cat and Thorne. Luckily, the cavalry arrive in the form of Damien and their army of supporters.
The scene is chaotic, but Damien is determined to rescue Cat, whom he has declared his love for and also end his brother tyranny. There's a surprise visit from an Immortal who delivers some shocking news to Damien.
In LA, Lady Arya is finally settling in a job and with Angie, Cat's friend's help, actually earning some money. I loved the idea of Lady Arya's artistic gifts from her world, being transformed into being a talented makeup artist.
At the beginning of the series, I was initially curious about Lady Arya and wanted more content about her in LA along with Cat in Elaria. In bk2, we did get more of Lady Arya in LA and we were introduced to how she was doing in LA, but I really didn't like her character at all, and I didn't warm up to the character anymore at all in bk2, I guess thats the reason I wasn't as interested in her part of the story, though I'll be honest I was so impatient for more from Cat and Damien and to learn what was going on in Elaria. In bk3, we do get some more about Lady Arya in LA, during which I finally warmed up to Lady Arya, which I actually enjoyed Lady Arya's escapades/life as Cat and her increasing closeness to Angie and her interactions with the cheating ex! It had me wondering if there could have been a hint at a romantic relationship between the pair. Would Lady have wanted to stay in LA, or maybe Angie would go back with her to Elaria?
It's difficult to explain whilst not giving away spoilers, but here goes, I was really sad at the loss of a character i had adored, though the death fit well with the plot and was totally believable. The book had a good ending, but it wasn't the ending I was yearning for. I was surprised by the revelation from the Immortal Azareth when he visits shortly after the battle. I enjoyed the fact all the different people came together to fight the evil, tyrannical Thorne Valenor.
Characters I loved, Maeve was my favourite human character she truly became a best friend to Cat. Of course, I loved the smart mouthed, up for a fight, Cat, and the relationship she developed with the banished dragon without a precious heart scale Damien.
I adored all the folklore elements, and the ballads were amazing. They told of the ancient prophecy of the twin flames, which I loved the concept of.
The epilogue was a nice touch, though it would have been nice to learn a little more about how Damien had adapted and where he worked? What did Cat's friends think about him? It did hint at what the future holds for Cat & Damien, which I liked.
There were some more intimate scenes that got a bit overly explicit for my personal taste and were quite surprising as there were no hints at this in the previous book in the trilogy.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing the book were Wow! That was a fast read, I read half the book in one go! I did not want to put it down.
Summing up, though the ending wasn't what I was expecting or hoping for, I still liked it! Another great series by Karina Espinosa!
August 18, 2025
Imagine my surprise when I learned Song of the Heart Scale was the final book in the Dragon's Ballad series. I'm not ready to let go yet.
This book was a doozy. Elaria is on the brink. There's an evil emperor on the throne, a curse, a rebellion in the works, and people are dying in the streets. Literally, it was madness. Through it all, Damien and Cat have only grown closer. They've gotten all lovey-dovey with each other but are still kicking butt where it counts. The real Arya is adjusting better to Cat's world than I would have guessed. She's still got that holier-than-thou attitude, but it's toned down by quite a bit. I will admit I misjudged her situation with Gianna. That chick and a few others have shown her true colors. It was so satisfying when Cat stopped playing nice with that delusional little monster.
With the royals losing the plot, the chaos was abundant. The rebellion slowly took shape, and some really juicy details were revealed. Through it all, there was one major question hanging over my head. What's going to happen with Cat and Damien once it's all said and done? The twist blew my mind! I couldn’t believe how everything turned out. It was incredibly good, and I was given the sweet justice I craved. I enjoyed the ending. It was a little bittersweet, and because I'm a crier (now), I had a few tears. Song of the Dragon Heart Scale was an incredible ending to the series. It was a little bittersweet, and because I'm a crier (now), I had a few tears. Song of the Dragon Heart Scale was an incredible ending to the series.
This book was a doozy. Elaria is on the brink. There's an evil emperor on the throne, a curse, a rebellion in the works, and people are dying in the streets. Literally, it was madness. Through it all, Damien and Cat have only grown closer. They've gotten all lovey-dovey with each other but are still kicking butt where it counts. The real Arya is adjusting better to Cat's world than I would have guessed. She's still got that holier-than-thou attitude, but it's toned down by quite a bit. I will admit I misjudged her situation with Gianna. That chick and a few others have shown her true colors. It was so satisfying when Cat stopped playing nice with that delusional little monster.
With the royals losing the plot, the chaos was abundant. The rebellion slowly took shape, and some really juicy details were revealed. Through it all, there was one major question hanging over my head. What's going to happen with Cat and Damien once it's all said and done? The twist blew my mind! I couldn’t believe how everything turned out. It was incredibly good, and I was given the sweet justice I craved. I enjoyed the ending. It was a little bittersweet, and because I'm a crier (now), I had a few tears. Song of the Dragon Heart Scale was an incredible ending to the series. It was a little bittersweet, and because I'm a crier (now), I had a few tears. Song of the Dragon Heart Scale was an incredible ending to the series.
August 16, 2025
Absolutely loved! Thrilling action, gorgeous characters, fabulous plot, hot as hell passion & fury...you name it. Must must read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
Cat has found her voice and her love. Damien has admitted his love for her, but will he leave Elaria behind to go with her? With the iron mines nearly depleted, Lord Zacharia has decided to sacrifice her in marriage to Thorne to save himself from the rath of the emperor. She had no illusions about Gianna, she stood firmly with her father. To her disappointment, after learning about the dire situation of the mines, Jacob too expected her to marry Crown Prince Thorne. Time to change the rules. Gianna and Zacharia know that she is not Arya. She will no longer pretend to act in her place. She wants to go home, where she hopes to send Arya back.
The Emperor is dead. No reason given for his death, but many suspect poison, by the hands of his son. But why? With the death of the emperor will the wedding be postponed as the law of the land requires ? Thorne wants Cat, as his wife, but must bow to law for now. The wedding may be postponed but Thorne needs Cat by his side when he is crowned, since there is still talk of the twin flames. He confronts her in the garden of the Ryder house to talk of the wedding. He is pushing to be crowned emperor since his father’s death will not stay a secret for long. She lashes out at him refusing to agree with his wants and a fight begins when Damien shows up and informs Thorne that he’ll never have Cat since she is Damien’s mate.
Thorne will stand for no delay as news of his father’s death spreads. He demands to be crowned. The moment the crown is placed on his head, the ground rumbles, in the sky thunder cracks the ground rumbles, flowers, grass and crops die. Fear, uncertainty and worry show in the people’s faces; they start to run. Furious Thorne’s first act as emperor is to kill anyone who will not bow to him, any who talk out against him. The Immortals have placed a curse on Elaria, for as long as the false emperor sits on the throne, there will be no rain. Famine will come first to the land. Now, with no chance of rain or storm, escaping Elaria is impossible, Cat is trapped until a rightful royal sits on the throne.
On the other side of the portal Arya has had to come to terms with this strange new world. Not happy but she has learned to put her artistic talents to good use as a makeup artist. She has even made a friend of Angela, while learning about this strange world in which she is trapped. Bidding her time before she can find a way back to her own home world.
Cat and Damien must now move forward with plans to remove the newly crowned emperor Thorne from his hold on the seat of power. They seek out allies to fight Thorne and those who would follow him. Can they convince Klaus to bring the Fae into the battle? What of the Nightwing’s army? Even if they win will Damien choose to leave his world behind and go back with Cat?
The answers come with a twist at the end I didn’t see coming. There is danger, adventure, spicy romance, humor and death of innocents that broke my heart. But the story, the characters and the ending of this thrilling trilogy are all worth the read. Again, Karina Espinosa has given us a story that will stay with me long after I closed the last page. I highly recommend this phantastic journey.
I was given an advanced readers copy for my voluntary review.
The Emperor is dead. No reason given for his death, but many suspect poison, by the hands of his son. But why? With the death of the emperor will the wedding be postponed as the law of the land requires ? Thorne wants Cat, as his wife, but must bow to law for now. The wedding may be postponed but Thorne needs Cat by his side when he is crowned, since there is still talk of the twin flames. He confronts her in the garden of the Ryder house to talk of the wedding. He is pushing to be crowned emperor since his father’s death will not stay a secret for long. She lashes out at him refusing to agree with his wants and a fight begins when Damien shows up and informs Thorne that he’ll never have Cat since she is Damien’s mate.
Thorne will stand for no delay as news of his father’s death spreads. He demands to be crowned. The moment the crown is placed on his head, the ground rumbles, in the sky thunder cracks the ground rumbles, flowers, grass and crops die. Fear, uncertainty and worry show in the people’s faces; they start to run. Furious Thorne’s first act as emperor is to kill anyone who will not bow to him, any who talk out against him. The Immortals have placed a curse on Elaria, for as long as the false emperor sits on the throne, there will be no rain. Famine will come first to the land. Now, with no chance of rain or storm, escaping Elaria is impossible, Cat is trapped until a rightful royal sits on the throne.
On the other side of the portal Arya has had to come to terms with this strange new world. Not happy but she has learned to put her artistic talents to good use as a makeup artist. She has even made a friend of Angela, while learning about this strange world in which she is trapped. Bidding her time before she can find a way back to her own home world.
Cat and Damien must now move forward with plans to remove the newly crowned emperor Thorne from his hold on the seat of power. They seek out allies to fight Thorne and those who would follow him. Can they convince Klaus to bring the Fae into the battle? What of the Nightwing’s army? Even if they win will Damien choose to leave his world behind and go back with Cat?
The answers come with a twist at the end I didn’t see coming. There is danger, adventure, spicy romance, humor and death of innocents that broke my heart. But the story, the characters and the ending of this thrilling trilogy are all worth the read. Again, Karina Espinosa has given us a story that will stay with me long after I closed the last page. I highly recommend this phantastic journey.
I was given an advanced readers copy for my voluntary review.
August 23, 2025
I loved this trilogy, and "Song of the Heart Scale", the third book, was a wonderful conclusion to the storyline!
Cat and Damien are a smoking hot couple, and the road to their HEA is a roller coaster ride. The death of the Emperor allows Damien's brother to ascend to the throne, but the Immortals have cursed the land because the wrong brother is being crowned. In a desperate bid to keep power and stop the peasants from revolting, Thorne becomes an increasingly unhinged tyrant. Alliances are formed and old friends must join forces to take him down and save the people and the land from disaster.
The plot twists just kept coming and there is deceit and betrayal aplenty. I was enthralled as Cat's life was threatened at every turn, and she tried to survive while maintaining the deception that she is Lady Arya. There was one particularly tragic scene that had me in tears. The characters are so well done that I was totally engaged with them and their feelings.
Back on Earth, the real Arya has a very fun to read trial trying to dodge Cat's agent who is determined to put her to work as a stunt woman. I was laughing while reading her exploits as a makeup artist to spoiled social media influencers. I would have loved to read more about Elarians trying to cope with our world as it was so amusing!!
This book has all the drama, passion, heartbreak and hope that anyone could want. I was so sorry to see it come to an end (but there is a little teaser that left an opening for more of Arya's story, which I am all for - I love bad girls!!) I fell in love with Damien's heart of gold that he tried so hard to hide. I was cheering for Cat every time she went all ex-Marine on the bad guys. And most of all, I was full of hope that the people of Elaria got a ruler that truly had their best interests at heart.
I recommend this book to all lovers of paranormal romances and fantasy. There are some spicy bedroom scenes and some torture so unfortunately I can't recommend it to younger readers. But for adults, this is a great trilogy!!!.
I read an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cat and Damien are a smoking hot couple, and the road to their HEA is a roller coaster ride. The death of the Emperor allows Damien's brother to ascend to the throne, but the Immortals have cursed the land because the wrong brother is being crowned. In a desperate bid to keep power and stop the peasants from revolting, Thorne becomes an increasingly unhinged tyrant. Alliances are formed and old friends must join forces to take him down and save the people and the land from disaster.
The plot twists just kept coming and there is deceit and betrayal aplenty. I was enthralled as Cat's life was threatened at every turn, and she tried to survive while maintaining the deception that she is Lady Arya. There was one particularly tragic scene that had me in tears. The characters are so well done that I was totally engaged with them and their feelings.
Back on Earth, the real Arya has a very fun to read trial trying to dodge Cat's agent who is determined to put her to work as a stunt woman. I was laughing while reading her exploits as a makeup artist to spoiled social media influencers. I would have loved to read more about Elarians trying to cope with our world as it was so amusing!!
This book has all the drama, passion, heartbreak and hope that anyone could want. I was so sorry to see it come to an end (but there is a little teaser that left an opening for more of Arya's story, which I am all for - I love bad girls!!) I fell in love with Damien's heart of gold that he tried so hard to hide. I was cheering for Cat every time she went all ex-Marine on the bad guys. And most of all, I was full of hope that the people of Elaria got a ruler that truly had their best interests at heart.
I recommend this book to all lovers of paranormal romances and fantasy. There are some spicy bedroom scenes and some torture so unfortunately I can't recommend it to younger readers. But for adults, this is a great trilogy!!!.
I read an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2025
Song of the Heart Scale offers a captivating blend of fantasy and romance, though it doesn’t fully reach its potential. Karina Espinosa creates a rich and immersive world in Elaria, filled with dragons, doppelgängers, and royal intrigue, which makes for an engaging backdrop for the story. The protagonist’s struggles and relationships are portrayed with genuine emotion, and there are moments of real depth and introspection that highlight themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth. The author’s writing style is lyrical and often poetic, particularly when describing music, emotions, or the magical elements of the world, which adds a unique charm to the narrative.
That said, the pacing of the story is uneven. Some sections felt slow and meandering, with extended internal monologues that didn’t always advance the plot, while other parts moved quickly and left me wishing for more development. Similarly, character development is inconsistent. While the main character is compelling and relatable at times, some supporting characters felt underdeveloped, and their motivations were occasionally unclear. This made it difficult to fully connect with certain relationships or plot decisions. Additionally, some of the symbolic elements, like the “heart scale,” were intriguing but occasionally felt heavy-handed, which distracted from the overall story rather than enhancing it.
Overall, Song of the Heart Scale has its strengths, including a beautiful and imaginative world, heartfelt moments, and a lyrical writing style, but it also has areas that could have been stronger, such as pacing and character depth. It’s a solid read for fans of fantasy romance and those who enjoy stories with emotional and magical undertones, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a consistently tight and polished narrative.
That said, the pacing of the story is uneven. Some sections felt slow and meandering, with extended internal monologues that didn’t always advance the plot, while other parts moved quickly and left me wishing for more development. Similarly, character development is inconsistent. While the main character is compelling and relatable at times, some supporting characters felt underdeveloped, and their motivations were occasionally unclear. This made it difficult to fully connect with certain relationships or plot decisions. Additionally, some of the symbolic elements, like the “heart scale,” were intriguing but occasionally felt heavy-handed, which distracted from the overall story rather than enhancing it.
Overall, Song of the Heart Scale has its strengths, including a beautiful and imaginative world, heartfelt moments, and a lyrical writing style, but it also has areas that could have been stronger, such as pacing and character depth. It’s a solid read for fans of fantasy romance and those who enjoy stories with emotional and magical undertones, but it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a consistently tight and polished narrative.
August 23, 2025
This was a fun and fast read (consistent with the rest of the trilogy). The world building is basically done by this book, so this one is really focused on the action. And wow - is there action, and some spice (finally!). It was nice to get a touch of what life was like for the real Arya (felt like this was lacking earlier), although we don't know her enough to really understand what hardships she is coming back to. My one complaint was that Cat's references to "her world" pop culture lined up with soliloquy situation descriptions of Thorne's actions was a bit overdone. Do it once or twice but there were 5 permutations back to back. Klaus is an enigma that I think I can say we all want to know more about. The rest of the group is solidly on their side of good vs. team evil in this book - so less twist and unexpected turns. The ending was almost a bit "too" tidy - sure it was nice to have a hea for Cat and Damien but everything tied off within a couple pages. While I appreciate getting closure (so annoying with the end of a series leaves so many holes!), some of this was just very tidy and neat - squared away without getting messy and taking away from the happy ever after. I would suggest this read for folks that aren't into fantasy yet, it's a good intro with a simple to understand magic system. Lots of action to keep them reading - but for people looking for a bit more depth in their fantasy - this comes across more beach read than epic adventure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
Karina Espinosa absolutely delivered with Song of the Heart Scale. As someone who’s been hooked since book one, this finale gave me everything I wanted and more—epic battles, impossible choices, and a love story that’s both frustrating and heart-wrenching in the best way.
Cat’s voice has always been one of my favorite parts of this series—she’s witty, relatable, and completely human even while facing down dragons, curses, and the kind of destiny most of us would run from. Watching her torn between Damien, the dangerously charming dragon prince, and the crushing weight of responsibility made me feel every ounce of her struggle. And the brother-versus-brother conflict? Whew, talk about emotional tension!
What really hit me, though, was how much heart this story had. Between the famine, war, and betrayal, there’s still humor, vulnerability, and sparks of hope that shine through. I laughed, I got misty-eyed, and I definitely cheered at the twists that had me gripping the book tighter than I expected.
If you’ve followed this journey through The Dragon’s Ballad series, this conclusion won’t let you down. It’s dramatic, romantic, and fierce—just like the dragons themselves.
Cat’s voice has always been one of my favorite parts of this series—she’s witty, relatable, and completely human even while facing down dragons, curses, and the kind of destiny most of us would run from. Watching her torn between Damien, the dangerously charming dragon prince, and the crushing weight of responsibility made me feel every ounce of her struggle. And the brother-versus-brother conflict? Whew, talk about emotional tension!
What really hit me, though, was how much heart this story had. Between the famine, war, and betrayal, there’s still humor, vulnerability, and sparks of hope that shine through. I laughed, I got misty-eyed, and I definitely cheered at the twists that had me gripping the book tighter than I expected.
If you’ve followed this journey through The Dragon’s Ballad series, this conclusion won’t let you down. It’s dramatic, romantic, and fierce—just like the dragons themselves.
August 22, 2025
"The shadow of something far greater than a crown had just fallen across Elaria. And we were standing in the heart of the storm."
The third installment of The Dragon’s Ballad was a satisfying conclusion, full of action, alluring moments, and a compelling plot. A well-written book that surprises you with its twists and turns, transporting you to fictional places with great realism.
ARC given by Karina Espinosa via Booksprout. Thanks for your trust.
FULL REVIEW IN:
August 17, 2025
Great Ending!
So many great twists and turns in this final book. Cat ends up bethrothed to the Crown Prince who is NOT our MMC. We're not sure how they are going to get out of this one. Damon knows that he has an uphill battle ahead of him with Crown Prince Thorne. And there are many things (people) working against both Cat and Damon. I will say I was a little surprised by the ending - but in a good way. The only thing I would've loved to see was some closure on what happened so some of our side characters in the end. Arya's father and sister....like an extended epilogue with their demise. And our fae friend, Klaus, loved him as a character in this story. Great work by Karina - absolutely loved this series.
So many great twists and turns in this final book. Cat ends up bethrothed to the Crown Prince who is NOT our MMC. We're not sure how they are going to get out of this one. Damon knows that he has an uphill battle ahead of him with Crown Prince Thorne. And there are many things (people) working against both Cat and Damon. I will say I was a little surprised by the ending - but in a good way. The only thing I would've loved to see was some closure on what happened so some of our side characters in the end. Arya's father and sister....like an extended epilogue with their demise. And our fae friend, Klaus, loved him as a character in this story. Great work by Karina - absolutely loved this series.
August 27, 2025
We are back for the final installment of The Dragon's Ballad, and boy, it did not disappoint! Cat and Damien have basically been through it all, and Song of the Heart Scale does not hold back on the tension, twists and feels. Cat is continuing to play the part of her doppelgänger Lady Arya, but it has been increasingly more difficult given the high stakes of what is happening around her and what is expected of Damien. We also get to see what is happening with Lady Arya as Cat the stuntwoman, and that alone brought out some laughs admits the tension for Cat and Damien. All in all, this is definitely a favorite series and I hope we get more from this world and these characters in spinoffs because I am not ready to say goodbye!
September 24, 2025
This is the final book in The Dragon’s Ballad series. The author’s world building in this series was outstanding, as well as the characters. This final installment is packed with full of action that kept me on the edge of my seat and those twists had me stunned. The author had me at full attention and didn’t want to put it down.
Karina pulled out all the stops between all the drama, the heartbreak, the banter, the secrets, the danger, the steamy passion and the epic battle, I ate this book up. I didn’t want this trilogy to end however what an ending it had.
Would so recommend for those who enjoy a paranormal romantasy with dragons, rebellions, suspense, plot twists, and that puts your emotions in overdrive. A storyline and characters that will stick with you.
Karina pulled out all the stops between all the drama, the heartbreak, the banter, the secrets, the danger, the steamy passion and the epic battle, I ate this book up. I didn’t want this trilogy to end however what an ending it had.
Would so recommend for those who enjoy a paranormal romantasy with dragons, rebellions, suspense, plot twists, and that puts your emotions in overdrive. A storyline and characters that will stick with you.
September 6, 2025
"Gosh, I have some many feelings with this ending. Part of me wanted to see how things would end and let me say it was intense and shocking but there's another part of me which is not ready to let them go. As silly as it might sound after what Damien did to Cat in that first book, I couldn't forgive him so easily, still to this last book part of me was wary about him...like I said silly as we all knew he fall hard for her but guess his betrayal really hurt. Anyway, the ended needed to have an epic battle and that's exactly what the author delivered and eventhough not everyone make it they were all heroes. A great trilogy that I highly recommend."
August 24, 2025
I've been waiting to read the ending to Cat and Damien's story. To find out if Cat will be able to return to her world or be stuck in Elaria. To know whether Cat and Damien are truly meant to be and what will happen when fate comes to show them what their twin flame truly means. We see Cat finally show her "family" aside from her brother, her true colors, and what she's made of. We also see Damien truly fight for what's right for Elaria, but also for Cat and their relationship. They bring everyone together, including the Fae, to right the wrong that Thorne has brought on Elaria along with the former Emperor. To show that you can work together as one for what's right. I loved the ending to their story.
August 22, 2025
Song of the Heart Scale is the third and final book of the Dragon Scale Ballad series, and takes the reader along on another wild ride within the world of Elaria with Cat and Damien.
This final adventure will continue to thrill and surprise as it comes full circle delivering resolutions, drama, danger, action, humor, and plenty of passion.
The story was written well with characters who continue to engage the reader in their adventure as they entertain all the way to an equally rewarding HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This final adventure will continue to thrill and surprise as it comes full circle delivering resolutions, drama, danger, action, humor, and plenty of passion.
The story was written well with characters who continue to engage the reader in their adventure as they entertain all the way to an equally rewarding HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2025
Great ending
I've been dying to know who would leave, who would stay, how things would go down for both Arya and Cat. The ending brought me please. I can sleep again without constantly wondering 😂
I loved how things ended. Klaus and Garrik will always be my favorite men side characters. But Maeve?? Really? You'll see.
I cried, I laughed, raged, wanted to murder. All the good things that come with a great book. A few parts seemed super repetitive (only reason for a star missing). Other than that, it was fabulous and I'm heartbroken but whole.
I've been dying to know who would leave, who would stay, how things would go down for both Arya and Cat. The ending brought me please. I can sleep again without constantly wondering 😂
I loved how things ended. Klaus and Garrik will always be my favorite men side characters. But Maeve?? Really? You'll see.
I cried, I laughed, raged, wanted to murder. All the good things that come with a great book. A few parts seemed super repetitive (only reason for a star missing). Other than that, it was fabulous and I'm heartbroken but whole.
August 21, 2025
This book was a page turner for me. It had great pacing. The story unfolded with a twist that I didn’t see coming. Cat and Damien have choices to make in this book. They each have to decide how they want the story to end. Their integrity comes to the forefront and their actions follow suit.
I think this was a nice conclusion to the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I think this was a nice conclusion to the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2025
A delectable, out-of-this-world, magical series, and the final instalment is as exciting and engaging as the other two books.
Cat is an endearing, strong and fascinating character with her humour and perspective adding to the adventure as a 21st-century woman survives, thrives and seeks to navigate the fantasy world she has been transported to. The 21st-century references and remarks create a lovely twist to this fantasy tale, with the two worlds blending well and Arya adjusting to 21st-century life, making for another enjoyable narrative.
The stakes have risen in this last instalment; there is more at stake, the characters step up, and lots of unexpected twists and turns had me totally immersed and created a page-turning and nail-biting adventure to see how it was all going to end.
A wonderful, magical and totally rollercoaster of an adventure and a great final instalment to this enjoyable fantasy adventure.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cat is an endearing, strong and fascinating character with her humour and perspective adding to the adventure as a 21st-century woman survives, thrives and seeks to navigate the fantasy world she has been transported to. The 21st-century references and remarks create a lovely twist to this fantasy tale, with the two worlds blending well and Arya adjusting to 21st-century life, making for another enjoyable narrative.
The stakes have risen in this last instalment; there is more at stake, the characters step up, and lots of unexpected twists and turns had me totally immersed and created a page-turning and nail-biting adventure to see how it was all going to end.
A wonderful, magical and totally rollercoaster of an adventure and a great final instalment to this enjoyable fantasy adventure.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 30, 2025
Entertaining romp
I thoroughly enjoyed Cat's character, she's feisty, sarcastic, confident, and cares deeply. The story was entertaining, I enjoyed the premise, and I liked the ending.
But I'm not giving it five stars as the way things wrapped up felt a little rushed. There were a couple supporting characters that didn't seem to feel strong enough, the brother of the former emperor being a big one on that list. That said, I'd still recommend the book, it's a good read!
I thoroughly enjoyed Cat's character, she's feisty, sarcastic, confident, and cares deeply. The story was entertaining, I enjoyed the premise, and I liked the ending.
But I'm not giving it five stars as the way things wrapped up felt a little rushed. There were a couple supporting characters that didn't seem to feel strong enough, the brother of the former emperor being a big one on that list. That said, I'd still recommend the book, it's a good read!
August 22, 2025
Cat and everyone else is back for a crazy story as everything comes to a head. So much action, drama, intrigue and secrets that had me glued to the end to see it all play out. Had me guessing, laughing., shaking my head and loving it all. Great story, world building, twists, and amazing characters to love and hate. Loved it.
August 24, 2025
Book three in The Dragon’s Ballad series, follows Damien and Cat into the final battle. Fantasy with dragons, rebellions, a curse, betrayals, suspense, and some romance of course. Fast paced and entertaining read with a plot twist you’ll have to read to find out, but, whoa! Fantastic culmination to end the series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2025
Cat & Damien
This was one twisty, action packed ride, with steamy passion and ending that I have been waiting for! I was surprised and happy with the finish that this series, left me with! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!! I Highly Recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was one twisty, action packed ride, with steamy passion and ending that I have been waiting for! I was surprised and happy with the finish that this series, left me with! I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!! I Highly Recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2025
NOOOOOOOO I wasn't ready for it to end. I mean don't get me wrong it was absolutely amazing. But I became so invested in Cat and Damien that I wasn't ready to say goodbye. This book literally had all the fireworks that you want.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 9, 2025
I love the concept of “Song of the Heart Scale” by Karina Espinos, it was very well written and thought out and if you want to know what actually happens in the book I guess that you will have to read it to find out what happens. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 31, 2025
Song of the Heart Scale by Karina Espinosa is an excellent fantasy. It’s the third book in The Dragon’s Ballad. The story is entertaining, enjoyable, interesting, and more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2025
This overall was a fun series, and I loved the sarcasm from Cat. However, the 3rd book was too rushed, and it jumped too fast into a battle, to the end. It would have been fun to see the planning and the progression leading up to the battle scene.
September 6, 2025
Damien and Cat takes the reader on another adventure in Elaria. This adventure has plenty of drama, danger, and resolution. The characters are well written to make you feel like you are with them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2025
I loved the completion of the trilogy. I think there could be separate stories to give us more for each side character. I highly recommend this fast and very easy read! You easily get sucked into a new world.
August 19, 2025
absolutely in love with The Dragon’s Ballad series … book 3 “Song of the Heart Scale” by Karina Espinosa was amazing!
August 20, 2025
What a fab ending to the trilogy!
This had spice, action, secrets and an epic battle at the end!
I love Cat and Damien and have really enjoyed reading their story.
This had spice, action, secrets and an epic battle at the end!
I love Cat and Damien and have really enjoyed reading their story.
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