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Dragonhart
'A hell of a debut novel. Dragonhart is the kind of fantasy that had everything I need; enemies-to-lovers, a strong FMC seeking revenge, magic and DRAGONS’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The brand new fantasy romance debut for fans of Sarah A. Parker and Rebecca Yarros. The dragons are gone, and the kingdoms are falling. Not even the gods can save them now…
Arla Reinhart, personal assassin to the King of Hadalyn, doesn’t believe in the gods and their dragons who once served the people – not after they abandoned her when she needed them most. But when shipments start going missing and the kingdoms begin to crumble, they may be the only ones who can help.
Forced into working with the arrogant – yet unmistakably handsome –ambassador of the kingdom that killed her parents, Arla must place her hatred for Hark Stappen to one side as they journey across kingdoms, dining with royalty and fighting in taverns, and make an alarming discovery that shatters her heart and forces her to question everything – and everyone – she knows…
What to expect from Dragonhart:
Enemies to loversForced proximityFMC seeking revengeDragonsMagicDragonhart is the fantasy phenomenon you need to read in 2025!‘Captivating… had me hooked. The combination of dragons, magic, and adventure created an exciting and immersive world that was hard to put down’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘A must-read for fantasy lovers’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘[A] character-driven fantasy with enemies-to-lovers romance, complex heroines seeking vengeance, and richly developed worlds where lost magic and political intrigue intertwine’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
'Fans of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched, this fantasy debut is the perfect addition to your TBR’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
The brand new fantasy romance debut for fans of Sarah A. Parker and Rebecca Yarros. The dragons are gone, and the kingdoms are falling. Not even the gods can save them now…
Arla Reinhart, personal assassin to the King of Hadalyn, doesn’t believe in the gods and their dragons who once served the people – not after they abandoned her when she needed them most. But when shipments start going missing and the kingdoms begin to crumble, they may be the only ones who can help.
Forced into working with the arrogant – yet unmistakably handsome –ambassador of the kingdom that killed her parents, Arla must place her hatred for Hark Stappen to one side as they journey across kingdoms, dining with royalty and fighting in taverns, and make an alarming discovery that shatters her heart and forces her to question everything – and everyone – she knows…
What to expect from Dragonhart:
Enemies to loversForced proximityFMC seeking revengeDragonsMagicDragonhart is the fantasy phenomenon you need to read in 2025!‘Captivating… had me hooked. The combination of dragons, magic, and adventure created an exciting and immersive world that was hard to put down’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘A must-read for fantasy lovers’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
‘[A] character-driven fantasy with enemies-to-lovers romance, complex heroines seeking vengeance, and richly developed worlds where lost magic and political intrigue intertwine’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
'Fans of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched, this fantasy debut is the perfect addition to your TBR’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
384 pages, Hardcover
First published April 18, 2025
190 people are currently reading
1512 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
April 17, 2025
i really wanted to like this, especially since it’s marketed as “enemies to lovers with dragons”.. but i COULD NOT STAND the fmc Arla. she’s made out to be a skilled assassin and i just want to know who lied to her? she literally almost got everyone caught on more than one occasion and lacks any and all self awareness. Arla’s parents were killed by the mmc Hark’s people, so for that she’s so aggressive and angry at him.. but her animosity is so misplaced. she “hates” him but meanwhile the whole time Hark was secretly helping the exact slaves that Arla was concerned about?? make it make sense. he honestly deserves better than her and her 52782 temper tantrums. i didn’t feel the chemistry between them and was hoping he’d push her off a cliff.
i won’t be including any quotes cause im mad. 😂
in this world there used to be dragons and magic but since Arla doesn’t believe that that’s true, she belittles anyone who thinks so and is beyond condescending about it. so naturally, she’s the one who ends up being gifted the opportunity of becoming bonded with the dragons.. i actually hate it here. the plot itself made no sense to me and felt like there were 20 different ideas fighting for the chance to be thrown into this mess of a book. Arla is also rude and immature towards Hark’s friends, he has more patience than me— i can tell you that much. i can’t for the life of me understand why he was even into her whatsoever. i also don’t like that she’s 18 years old.. I don’t want to be reading sex scenes involving a teenager. i was just so aggravated the whole time i was reading this and couldn’t wait for it to end.
➝ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Harper Collins UK for the arc, all opinions are my own.
i won’t be including any quotes cause im mad. 😂
in this world there used to be dragons and magic but since Arla doesn’t believe that that’s true, she belittles anyone who thinks so and is beyond condescending about it. so naturally, she’s the one who ends up being gifted the opportunity of becoming bonded with the dragons.. i actually hate it here. the plot itself made no sense to me and felt like there were 20 different ideas fighting for the chance to be thrown into this mess of a book. Arla is also rude and immature towards Hark’s friends, he has more patience than me— i can tell you that much. i can’t for the life of me understand why he was even into her whatsoever. i also don’t like that she’s 18 years old.. I don’t want to be reading sex scenes involving a teenager. i was just so aggravated the whole time i was reading this and couldn’t wait for it to end.
➝ many thanks to NetGalley, the author and Harper Collins UK for the arc, all opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
A lot of potential here but didn’t meet it.
Arla was so irritating omg I wanted to pull my hair out. She argued like a literal child and felt like a forced character. She’s supposed to be a kings assassin but was proven incompetent like half the book.
Hark deserved better. But then again he would argue back in the first half of the book and I was like 🥴 the things he said didn’t leave the best impression icel.
The fantasy aspect wasn’t properly introduced and I lost complete interest halfway thru for me to want to care about the dragons or the lore.
So disappointed because I was really expecting this to be the next best thing 💔
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the ARC! ♥︎
Arla was so irritating omg I wanted to pull my hair out. She argued like a literal child and felt like a forced character. She’s supposed to be a kings assassin but was proven incompetent like half the book.
Hark deserved better. But then again he would argue back in the first half of the book and I was like 🥴 the things he said didn’t leave the best impression icel.
The fantasy aspect wasn’t properly introduced and I lost complete interest halfway thru for me to want to care about the dragons or the lore.
So disappointed because I was really expecting this to be the next best thing 💔
ೃ⁀➷ Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the ARC! ♥︎
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March 12, 2025What in the throne of glass copy and paste
March 20, 2025
Arla Reinhart, the king's assassin, is reluctantly paired with Hark Stappen, an ambassador from a rival kingdom that was responsible for the death of her family. This unlikely partnership uncovers dark secrets between their kingdoms, bringing them closer in ways they never imagined, including love.
The constant emphasis on Arla’s assassin title felt repetitive, as did her intense disdain for magic and the opposing kingdom.
However, once the plot gained momentum halfway through, I found myself completely hooked. Although the side characters have minimal screen time, their witty banter suggests they will play important roles in the future books, and I’m already looking forward to their development. The romantic tension was gradually built up and executed perfectly, especially considering Arla’s struggle to open up, particularly when it came to Hark, whom she initially despises. I appreciated how Arla’s character was portrayed: outwardly tough, yet we see her inner struggles and insecurities through her perspective.
As Arla’s journey with Hark unfolded, I became increasingly invested in the story. Around the 70% mark, when a major twist occurs, I couldn’t help but be moved to tears by how beautifully the moment was written. It felt like a pivotal turning point for Arla, a character who has spent so much of her life in isolation.
Overall, I’m eagerly anticipating the rest of this series. Dragonhart is clearly just the start of an epic romantic fantasy that promises to earn a well-deserved place on the bookshelf once it's published.
The constant emphasis on Arla’s assassin title felt repetitive, as did her intense disdain for magic and the opposing kingdom.
However, once the plot gained momentum halfway through, I found myself completely hooked. Although the side characters have minimal screen time, their witty banter suggests they will play important roles in the future books, and I’m already looking forward to their development. The romantic tension was gradually built up and executed perfectly, especially considering Arla’s struggle to open up, particularly when it came to Hark, whom she initially despises. I appreciated how Arla’s character was portrayed: outwardly tough, yet we see her inner struggles and insecurities through her perspective.
As Arla’s journey with Hark unfolded, I became increasingly invested in the story. Around the 70% mark, when a major twist occurs, I couldn’t help but be moved to tears by how beautifully the moment was written. It felt like a pivotal turning point for Arla, a character who has spent so much of her life in isolation.
Overall, I’m eagerly anticipating the rest of this series. Dragonhart is clearly just the start of an epic romantic fantasy that promises to earn a well-deserved place on the bookshelf once it's published.
April 1, 2025
This fantasy debut swooped onto my netgalley shelf with all the promise of a dragonrider’s epic—Fourth Wing vibes with a dash of enemies-to-lovers spice? Give it to me!
While it didn’t totally crash and burn, it didn’t exactly soar to the heavens either. It’s a mixed bag of scales and sparks, and I’ve got thoughts.
First off, the setup hooked me faster than a dragon snagging a runaway goat. Arla Reinhart, a stab-happy assassin for the King of Hadalyn, is out for vengeance and doesn’t trust the gods or their long-gone dragons (fair, considering they ghosted her when she needed them most).
Then there’s Hark Stappen, the smug ambassador from the kingdom that torched her parents, who’s forced to team up with her on a quest to save their realms. Cue the forced proximity, the simmering hate-flirt tension, and a world where dragons might not be as extinct as everyone thinks. It’s a recipe for a rollicking good time, and I was ready to strap in and ride this beast.
Buttttttt the wings began to wobble. The pacing feels like Arla and Hark took a wrong turn into a tavern brawl and forgot to leave. There’s a lot of meandering between the big moments. I get that character driven fantasy needs room to breathe, but I found myself tapping my foot, waiting for the plot to kick into gear.
Then there’s Ayla herself. Oh, Ayla. She’s bold, she’s fierce, she’s... insufferable at times. I get it, she’s got a chip on her shoulder the size of a dragon’s hoard, but does she have to snarl at EVERYONE? There’s a fine line between “strong female character” and “person I’d avoid at a party,” and Ayla tap-dances over it with reckless abandon.
And the love interest. Hark is handsome and arrogant, sure, but he’s also got the personality of a damp tapestry half the time. Their banter has its moments like when they’re trading barbs, but it’s not consistent enough to carry the weight of their “electric” chemistry. I wanted more zing, more oomph, more of that enemies-to-lovers magic that makes you clutch your chest and whisper, “Oh no, they’re hot for each other.” Instead, I got flickers of heat drowned out by a lot of “let’s journey across the kingdom and brood.”
The world-building is where we claw back some points. Eaton’s got a knack for painting a vivid, crumbling realm where magic’s fading and political intrigue is thicker than dragon hide. There’s a twist toward the end that had me sit up straighter than my dog when she hears the word “outside?”, and it’s almost enough to forgive the earlier slog.
All in all, Dragonhart feels like a debut that’s still finding its talons. It’s got heart, it’s got potential, and it’s got dragons (praise be!), but it’s also got some rough edges that left me wanting. If you love dragons and don’t mind a heroine who’s both badass and brat, you’ll probably dig it. Me? I liked it fine, but I’m not tattooing Ayla’s name on my arm anytime soon.
Worth a spin if you’re in the mood for some fire-breathing escapism. Just don’t expect me to cheer when Ayla opens her mouth.
While it didn’t totally crash and burn, it didn’t exactly soar to the heavens either. It’s a mixed bag of scales and sparks, and I’ve got thoughts.
First off, the setup hooked me faster than a dragon snagging a runaway goat. Arla Reinhart, a stab-happy assassin for the King of Hadalyn, is out for vengeance and doesn’t trust the gods or their long-gone dragons (fair, considering they ghosted her when she needed them most).
Then there’s Hark Stappen, the smug ambassador from the kingdom that torched her parents, who’s forced to team up with her on a quest to save their realms. Cue the forced proximity, the simmering hate-flirt tension, and a world where dragons might not be as extinct as everyone thinks. It’s a recipe for a rollicking good time, and I was ready to strap in and ride this beast.
Buttttttt the wings began to wobble. The pacing feels like Arla and Hark took a wrong turn into a tavern brawl and forgot to leave. There’s a lot of meandering between the big moments. I get that character driven fantasy needs room to breathe, but I found myself tapping my foot, waiting for the plot to kick into gear.
Then there’s Ayla herself. Oh, Ayla. She’s bold, she’s fierce, she’s... insufferable at times. I get it, she’s got a chip on her shoulder the size of a dragon’s hoard, but does she have to snarl at EVERYONE? There’s a fine line between “strong female character” and “person I’d avoid at a party,” and Ayla tap-dances over it with reckless abandon.
And the love interest. Hark is handsome and arrogant, sure, but he’s also got the personality of a damp tapestry half the time. Their banter has its moments like when they’re trading barbs, but it’s not consistent enough to carry the weight of their “electric” chemistry. I wanted more zing, more oomph, more of that enemies-to-lovers magic that makes you clutch your chest and whisper, “Oh no, they’re hot for each other.” Instead, I got flickers of heat drowned out by a lot of “let’s journey across the kingdom and brood.”
The world-building is where we claw back some points. Eaton’s got a knack for painting a vivid, crumbling realm where magic’s fading and political intrigue is thicker than dragon hide. There’s a twist toward the end that had me sit up straighter than my dog when she hears the word “outside?”, and it’s almost enough to forgive the earlier slog.
All in all, Dragonhart feels like a debut that’s still finding its talons. It’s got heart, it’s got potential, and it’s got dragons (praise be!), but it’s also got some rough edges that left me wanting. If you love dragons and don’t mind a heroine who’s both badass and brat, you’ll probably dig it. Me? I liked it fine, but I’m not tattooing Ayla’s name on my arm anytime soon.
Worth a spin if you’re in the mood for some fire-breathing escapism. Just don’t expect me to cheer when Ayla opens her mouth.
March 30, 2025
2.5★
I had high hopes for this book, especially because When The Moon Hatched is one of my favourite recent fantasy reads, however, this just missed the mark for me, unfortunately.
The fmc, Arla, was so insufferable, in my personal opinion. She was irritating, argumentative, angry, and foul mouthed. Usually I wouldn’t mind this in a strong female character, but she just seemed juvenile and these traits annoyed me. She was oblivious to most things around her, and for someone who is supposedly a top notch assassin/spy, she was caught off guard frequently.
Hark was slightly better. He is the stereotypical cocky, arrogant, and flirtatious guy. I don’t mind this. I’ve gotten used to this character type since it’s the standard male character in recent books these past few years. He is trying to do the right thing, and fight injustice, which is very admirable. and I think he cares a little too much. Overall he isn’t as unlikeable, but there also isn’t much to him either.
Their romance wasn’t really too believable either. They went from “hating” each other and Arla being mad at Hark for everything, to devleoping a romance? It wasn’t natural and I didn’t really see the true romantic connection between them.
At the end of the day, I just don’t think this was for me. I think it’s unfair for me to continue bashing it, when other readers may enjoy it. The plot was relatively good, and the writing was ok too.
Thank you to HarperCollins, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had high hopes for this book, especially because When The Moon Hatched is one of my favourite recent fantasy reads, however, this just missed the mark for me, unfortunately.
The fmc, Arla, was so insufferable, in my personal opinion. She was irritating, argumentative, angry, and foul mouthed. Usually I wouldn’t mind this in a strong female character, but she just seemed juvenile and these traits annoyed me. She was oblivious to most things around her, and for someone who is supposedly a top notch assassin/spy, she was caught off guard frequently.
Hark was slightly better. He is the stereotypical cocky, arrogant, and flirtatious guy. I don’t mind this. I’ve gotten used to this character type since it’s the standard male character in recent books these past few years. He is trying to do the right thing, and fight injustice, which is very admirable. and I think he cares a little too much. Overall he isn’t as unlikeable, but there also isn’t much to him either.
Their romance wasn’t really too believable either. They went from “hating” each other and Arla being mad at Hark for everything, to devleoping a romance? It wasn’t natural and I didn’t really see the true romantic connection between them.
At the end of the day, I just don’t think this was for me. I think it’s unfair for me to continue bashing it, when other readers may enjoy it. The plot was relatively good, and the writing was ok too.
Thank you to HarperCollins, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2025
I have read five chapters and I am going no further. There’s a lot that I don’t like about this, mostly summarized into one word: juvenile. Is the only flawed female type allowed brash and impatient, rude and foul-mouthed, violent and angry?
I swear a lot, but with purpose and with an eye to who I’m with and where I am. This is shock value. It’s “showing she doesn’t care” but there are so many better ways to do that. A king raising a child as an assassin would not allow said assassin to swear at him, to disrespect or malign him, whether verbally or gesturally. He has an assassin because he is abusing his power, and that abuse of power would extend to his personal servants, particularly those he sends out to perform illegal or violent acts. He must maintain power or find it turned against him. This just… doesn’t make sense. Not to mention everyone knows who she is. And that she’s this terrifying weapon at all of 19 (ha. Yeah right. We all know what idiots we were at that age.) yet is easily beaten by Hark?
There are too many plot holes with not a single redeeming character to root for in the first 5 chapters. I’m out. Some may feel otherwise — and maybe this is actually YA? 2 stars because the premise is interesting and I may be the wrong audience for this book.
I swear a lot, but with purpose and with an eye to who I’m with and where I am. This is shock value. It’s “showing she doesn’t care” but there are so many better ways to do that. A king raising a child as an assassin would not allow said assassin to swear at him, to disrespect or malign him, whether verbally or gesturally. He has an assassin because he is abusing his power, and that abuse of power would extend to his personal servants, particularly those he sends out to perform illegal or violent acts. He must maintain power or find it turned against him. This just… doesn’t make sense. Not to mention everyone knows who she is. And that she’s this terrifying weapon at all of 19 (ha. Yeah right. We all know what idiots we were at that age.) yet is easily beaten by Hark?
There are too many plot holes with not a single redeeming character to root for in the first 5 chapters. I’m out. Some may feel otherwise — and maybe this is actually YA? 2 stars because the premise is interesting and I may be the wrong audience for this book.
July 17, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This was…ok. Not enough dragons (you don’t even get them until the last 3rd of the book), the FMC was extremely arrogant, narcissistic, and immature (18 but read like she was 16)…the plot development was a bit choppy, big moments were underplayed, and the love interest was some weird, hate-lust combo.
The story itself was a cool concept. But this read YA and I wish it hadn’t.
This was…ok. Not enough dragons (you don’t even get them until the last 3rd of the book), the FMC was extremely arrogant, narcissistic, and immature (18 but read like she was 16)…the plot development was a bit choppy, big moments were underplayed, and the love interest was some weird, hate-lust combo.
The story itself was a cool concept. But this read YA and I wish it hadn’t.
March 24, 2025
Let’s talk Dragonhart 🐉✨—because this book had me feral one moment and then side-eyeing certain choices the next 👀. It’s giving Rebecca Yarros and Sarah A. Parker vibes, but with a more classic fantasy feel.
Enemies-to-lovers? ✔️
Forced proximity? ✔️
Dragons (kinda)? ✔️
Magic, political intrigue, and a morally grey assassin FMC? Absolutely.
What I LOVED 💖
🔹 Hark Stappen—cocky, charming, infuriating ambassador? Say less. He’s got that “smirks while dodging knives” energy, and I lived for his constant back-and-forth with Arla. The banter was top-tier, no notes.
🔹 Arla as an assassin? Chef’s kiss 🍽️ She’s broody, ruthless, and so done with everyone. If you love an FMC who throws knives before words, she’s your girl.
🔹 Hark’s found family—Sebastian, Jack, and Kase were giving chaotic family energy, and I’d happily read a spin-off about them.
🔹 The romance? TENSION CITY. "I hate you." "Keep telling yourself that, sweetheart." SCREAMING. That first kiss? That fuck it moment? I died. Resurrected. And died again.
😬 What didn’t quite hit:
• The final battle felt like it was speedrunning its way to the finish line. Like, where was the angst, the epic payoff, the glory?! I needed more tension, more high stakes. Arla’s revenge arc had all the right ingredients but ended up a little undercooked.
• The dragons. Were they cool? The concept was intriguing. But I wanted more. More lore, more presence, more fire-breathing chaos. If you promise me dragons, I expect to FEEL their power in the story.
• The somewhat predictable plot. It was engaging, don’t get me wrong, but if you read a lot of fantasy romance, you could see some twists coming from a mile away.
Favourite Quotes (aka proof of my slow descent into madness)
🔹 "Gods, I'd love to stab you."
"I'd like to see you try, sweetheart."
🔹 "This is a bad idea."
"The worst."
“I don’t even like you.”
“You’re the bane of my life…
Fuck it.”
🔹 "When I touch you again, I want you to remember every second of it."
Final Thoughts ✨
If you love an angsty enemies-to-lovers romance with deadly banter, a broody assassin FMC, and a golden retriever menace of an MMC, Dragonhart delivers. It’s not perfect, but it was still a damn good time. Just be prepared for that ending to leave you wanting a bit more.
3.75 ⭐️—because Hark and Arla’s banter alone deserves it.
Enemies-to-lovers? ✔️
Forced proximity? ✔️
Dragons (kinda)? ✔️
Magic, political intrigue, and a morally grey assassin FMC? Absolutely.
What I LOVED 💖
🔹 Hark Stappen—cocky, charming, infuriating ambassador? Say less. He’s got that “smirks while dodging knives” energy, and I lived for his constant back-and-forth with Arla. The banter was top-tier, no notes.
🔹 Arla as an assassin? Chef’s kiss 🍽️ She’s broody, ruthless, and so done with everyone. If you love an FMC who throws knives before words, she’s your girl.
🔹 Hark’s found family—Sebastian, Jack, and Kase were giving chaotic family energy, and I’d happily read a spin-off about them.
🔹 The romance? TENSION CITY. "I hate you." "Keep telling yourself that, sweetheart." SCREAMING. That first kiss? That fuck it moment? I died. Resurrected. And died again.
😬 What didn’t quite hit:
• The final battle felt like it was speedrunning its way to the finish line. Like, where was the angst, the epic payoff, the glory?! I needed more tension, more high stakes. Arla’s revenge arc had all the right ingredients but ended up a little undercooked.
• The dragons. Were they cool? The concept was intriguing. But I wanted more. More lore, more presence, more fire-breathing chaos. If you promise me dragons, I expect to FEEL their power in the story.
• The somewhat predictable plot. It was engaging, don’t get me wrong, but if you read a lot of fantasy romance, you could see some twists coming from a mile away.
Favourite Quotes (aka proof of my slow descent into madness)
🔹 "Gods, I'd love to stab you."
"I'd like to see you try, sweetheart."
🔹 "This is a bad idea."
"The worst."
“I don’t even like you.”
“You’re the bane of my life…
Fuck it.”
🔹 "When I touch you again, I want you to remember every second of it."
Final Thoughts ✨
If you love an angsty enemies-to-lovers romance with deadly banter, a broody assassin FMC, and a golden retriever menace of an MMC, Dragonhart delivers. It’s not perfect, but it was still a damn good time. Just be prepared for that ending to leave you wanting a bit more.
3.75 ⭐️—because Hark and Arla’s banter alone deserves it.
March 10, 2025
3.75 stars rounding up to four because I feel like it shows a lot of promise for a series.
I’ve seen some people compare it to fourth wing and I wouldn’t say that that’s necessarily fair, even though it has dragons otherwise it’s nothing like fourth wing
If anything, it’s probably a mixture of powerless, and assassin’s blade but added dragons.
I do warn you that this very much has a young adult vibe and for the first half of the book I was wondering if I had managed to somehow sign up for a young adult ARC on accident.
But then there started to be some spicy scenes (which in my opinion, young adult books should never have anything more than kissing on the page)
So it gives high school/early college vibes as far as the Friend group and relationship.
Our FMC is extremely opinionated extremely sassy, extremely full of herself and reckless. She is a young woman with a lot of trauma and she acts out constantly. She is vicious and bloodthirsty, she has almost no friends, no family and has been raised to be an assassin by the king.
Our MMC is an ambassador from a neighboring kingdom. He is mysterious and grumpy. He doesn’t seem to care that he hails from an evil kingdom that killed the FMC’s parents and walks around the palace like he owns it.
Which obviously does not sit right with our FMC.
When shipments of supplies start going missing the two are forced to team up and to put their hatred aside to serve the king that saved her after her parents were killed .
I’ve seen some people compare it to fourth wing and I wouldn’t say that that’s necessarily fair, even though it has dragons otherwise it’s nothing like fourth wing
If anything, it’s probably a mixture of powerless, and assassin’s blade but added dragons.
I do warn you that this very much has a young adult vibe and for the first half of the book I was wondering if I had managed to somehow sign up for a young adult ARC on accident.
But then there started to be some spicy scenes (which in my opinion, young adult books should never have anything more than kissing on the page)
So it gives high school/early college vibes as far as the Friend group and relationship.
Our FMC is extremely opinionated extremely sassy, extremely full of herself and reckless. She is a young woman with a lot of trauma and she acts out constantly. She is vicious and bloodthirsty, she has almost no friends, no family and has been raised to be an assassin by the king.
Our MMC is an ambassador from a neighboring kingdom. He is mysterious and grumpy. He doesn’t seem to care that he hails from an evil kingdom that killed the FMC’s parents and walks around the palace like he owns it.
Which obviously does not sit right with our FMC.
When shipments of supplies start going missing the two are forced to team up and to put their hatred aside to serve the king that saved her after her parents were killed .
March 9, 2025
The bones of a good story are there. I think this author shows a lot of promise with this debut novel.
I just couldn't connect with the FMC no matter how I tried and unfortunately as a result I didn't connect with the story.
Arla is supposedly an undefeated assassin to the King. But within 25% of the book she's bested or surprised 4-5 times. I tried to reason that her arrogance comes with the age, but that's not true. She's just an arrogant character that loses her temper constantly. Also she blames Hark for what his kingdom did. Guilt by association. But then turns around and befriends the prince...she can blame Hark, but not Reuben?
And she blames Hark for everything. Even when she discovers something positive she still finds a way to blame him for its occurrence or that he wasn't able to stop it immediately. As an Ambassador. Sorry to Arla that he shares her air.
This story has potential, but Arla is almost as unlikeable as the King of Kastonia. Not even the dragons could bring this back for me. But maybe there's a reader out there that is looking for an unhinged FMC constantly in a rage.
I received an arc through netgalley and am offering my opinion freely.
I just couldn't connect with the FMC no matter how I tried and unfortunately as a result I didn't connect with the story.
Arla is supposedly an undefeated assassin to the King. But within 25% of the book she's bested or surprised 4-5 times. I tried to reason that her arrogance comes with the age, but that's not true. She's just an arrogant character that loses her temper constantly. Also she blames Hark for what his kingdom did. Guilt by association. But then turns around and befriends the prince...she can blame Hark, but not Reuben?
And she blames Hark for everything. Even when she discovers something positive she still finds a way to blame him for its occurrence or that he wasn't able to stop it immediately. As an Ambassador. Sorry to Arla that he shares her air.
This story has potential, but Arla is almost as unlikeable as the King of Kastonia. Not even the dragons could bring this back for me. But maybe there's a reader out there that is looking for an unhinged FMC constantly in a rage.
I received an arc through netgalley and am offering my opinion freely.
April 11, 2025
Sad to say, I DNFed Dragonhart at 40%—I didn’t even have the patience to stick around for the dragons.
There’s just... absolutely nothing that stands out here. The protagonist is the same old formulaic female assassin: edgy, arrogant, stubborn, ridiculously powerful for no good reason, and—let’s be honest—just plain obnoxious. It felt like a character pulled straight from a "dark fantasy 101" checklist without any real depth or nuance.
The book also suffers heavily from the "desperately needs tighter editing" curse. So much of the text is bogged down by unnecessary info-dumps and endless repetition of the same thoughts or facts. The prose itself is painfully dry—lots of telling, barely any showing—and the dialogue? Forced and stilted, with characters who don’t sound like real people so much as walking tropes.
This just wasn’t the book for me.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC!
There’s just... absolutely nothing that stands out here. The protagonist is the same old formulaic female assassin: edgy, arrogant, stubborn, ridiculously powerful for no good reason, and—let’s be honest—just plain obnoxious. It felt like a character pulled straight from a "dark fantasy 101" checklist without any real depth or nuance.
The book also suffers heavily from the "desperately needs tighter editing" curse. So much of the text is bogged down by unnecessary info-dumps and endless repetition of the same thoughts or facts. The prose itself is painfully dry—lots of telling, barely any showing—and the dialogue? Forced and stilted, with characters who don’t sound like real people so much as walking tropes.
This just wasn’t the book for me.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC!
April 28, 2025
If you are challenged by the stereotypical 'strong' female fantasy protagonist who solves everything only through violence, the beginning of the book could give you the wrong impression. Arla isn't just an assassin, she is a more complex heroine despite all the tough situations she is put in.
This book is most interesting for its undercurrent of political and spiritual turmoil. With no dragons or gods around anymore, Arla is reluctant to believe in either even when many others still do. Arla faces questions about her past, her enemies, and her abandoned beliefs about the world that have shocking answers.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Net Galley for the eARC.
This book is most interesting for its undercurrent of political and spiritual turmoil. With no dragons or gods around anymore, Arla is reluctant to believe in either even when many others still do. Arla faces questions about her past, her enemies, and her abandoned beliefs about the world that have shocking answers.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Net Galley for the eARC.
April 5, 2025
I had high hopes for this book but it just didn’t work at all for me. Arla is introduced as the King’s Assassin, superior in any way. But it’s made abundantly clear that she isn’t as mighty and powerful as she still thinks she is. Which leads to a bit of an awkward read as I just couldn’t find myself rooting for her. She gets incredibly annoying by how distrusting and rude she is to everyone, and her dialogue with Hark might be the most annoying of all.
I found myself not caring about the book as it kept dragging on. It definitely has potential and I can see why people do enjoy it, but the characters and dialogue made it a rough read for me.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I found myself not caring about the book as it kept dragging on. It definitely has potential and I can see why people do enjoy it, but the characters and dialogue made it a rough read for me.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2025
I was surprised at how much I thoroughly enjoyed Dragonhart! It’s light, it’s refreshing, it’s dragons, it’s romance. Everything you want in a good Romantasy.
Arla Reinhart, the Kings Assassin, is an interesting character. She started the book annoying me because she was so good at being an assassin but kept missing things. Like not noticing something or being overly cocky. Just simple things. But watching her growth and change made me love her in the end.
Hark, well Hark. He’s just dreamy and broody and yet loyal. He puts on the show of being better than Arla and how there’s such a competition between the two of them but really he’s a golden retriever.
I was not expecting the roller coaster the story took us on. From assassin, to magic, to secret princes, to dragons, to over throwing kingdoms! I mean talk about a ride. It was a lot but at the same time the story flowed so well that I never felt overwhelmed. It was easy to follow.
And seeing Arla slowly melt her exterior and discover herself truly was good to see. Her relationship with Hark was something I was striving to see the entire time. I hope there’s more romance in the next book!
I will absolutely be recommending Dragonhart to all my fantasy reading friends!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC book!
Arla Reinhart, the Kings Assassin, is an interesting character. She started the book annoying me because she was so good at being an assassin but kept missing things. Like not noticing something or being overly cocky. Just simple things. But watching her growth and change made me love her in the end.
Hark, well Hark. He’s just dreamy and broody and yet loyal. He puts on the show of being better than Arla and how there’s such a competition between the two of them but really he’s a golden retriever.
I was not expecting the roller coaster the story took us on. From assassin, to magic, to secret princes, to dragons, to over throwing kingdoms! I mean talk about a ride. It was a lot but at the same time the story flowed so well that I never felt overwhelmed. It was easy to follow.
And seeing Arla slowly melt her exterior and discover herself truly was good to see. Her relationship with Hark was something I was striving to see the entire time. I hope there’s more romance in the next book!
I will absolutely be recommending Dragonhart to all my fantasy reading friends!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2025
I knew better than to trust the hype. I picked this up for the dragons (because, of course), but I should’ve turned back the moment I saw it compared to books I can’t stand.
Even with low expectations, I still ended up frustrated. Dragonhart felt like eating chicken soup without the chicken—bland, forgettable, and lacking substance.
Here’s what I look for in a book, and what this one didn’t deliver:
Complex characters with actual flaws and growth, not another edgy Mary Sue.
Something memorable, even if it’s weird or niche. This left zero impression.
Consistent, show-don’t-tell storytelling. This was more like a dry essay.
Dialogue with depth, but even the banter felt completely flat. A book has room for rich, layered conversations, but this felt like a poor script. If I wanted that, I’d watch a movie.
Tropes with purpose. I love a good trope when done well. Forced proximity? Guilty pleasure. But this book felt like a treadmill of tropes crammed in for the sake of trendiness, with no deeper purpose or story arc.
A story isn’t just point A to Z. The magic lies in all the messy, meaningful letters in between. And unfortunately, Dragonhart just didn’t spell anything worth reading.
Maybe this book will work better for readers who don’t mind vague storytelling and just want to turn off their brains after a long day, but it left me cold.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC!
Even with low expectations, I still ended up frustrated. Dragonhart felt like eating chicken soup without the chicken—bland, forgettable, and lacking substance.
Here’s what I look for in a book, and what this one didn’t deliver:
Complex characters with actual flaws and growth, not another edgy Mary Sue.
Something memorable, even if it’s weird or niche. This left zero impression.
Consistent, show-don’t-tell storytelling. This was more like a dry essay.
Dialogue with depth, but even the banter felt completely flat. A book has room for rich, layered conversations, but this felt like a poor script. If I wanted that, I’d watch a movie.
Tropes with purpose. I love a good trope when done well. Forced proximity? Guilty pleasure. But this book felt like a treadmill of tropes crammed in for the sake of trendiness, with no deeper purpose or story arc.
A story isn’t just point A to Z. The magic lies in all the messy, meaningful letters in between. And unfortunately, Dragonhart just didn’t spell anything worth reading.
Maybe this book will work better for readers who don’t mind vague storytelling and just want to turn off their brains after a long day, but it left me cold.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for the ARC!
April 1, 2025
I LOVED THIS! It was SUPER similar to throne of glass (subtract the dragons) and fear the flames. Read this if you love a dragon assassin fantasy
March 16, 2025
A solid 3-3.5⭐️ stars - a good romantasy story just missing some depth and chemistry. This has all the right components, but was missing an element of connection to the characters and fire in the relationship between Arla and Hark.
Arla was taken in as a child by the king, an orphan, she trained her way up to become a soldier and then earned the title of the kings assassin. Knowing nothing but violence, she was happy to lead her life in service to the king. Her newest mission would bring her to a neighbouring kingdom that took everything from her. But what’s worse than heading into enemy territory in the cold winter? Having to go with the ambassador whose arrogance and ego drive you crazy. Hark and Arla have always had a tenuous relationship, so why not send them off together on a mission? But as secrets and betrayals come to light, Arla realizes that nothing is as it seems in this world of kings, dragons and magic.
Arla was taken in as a child by the king, an orphan, she trained her way up to become a soldier and then earned the title of the kings assassin. Knowing nothing but violence, she was happy to lead her life in service to the king. Her newest mission would bring her to a neighbouring kingdom that took everything from her. But what’s worse than heading into enemy territory in the cold winter? Having to go with the ambassador whose arrogance and ego drive you crazy. Hark and Arla have always had a tenuous relationship, so why not send them off together on a mission? But as secrets and betrayals come to light, Arla realizes that nothing is as it seems in this world of kings, dragons and magic.
March 20, 2025
Arla is officially one of my favorite FMC I have read about. This book hit it off right awayand I love it when that happens. Arla is the King’s Assasin, she decides to become the king’s assasin after she loses her parents in war, and the king taker her in afterwards. She has a very fun rivalry with the mysterious ambassador to the enemy kingdom, Hark. At first, this rivalry felt very much like true hate for each other but when they are assigned to travel and work together, well it definitely gets fun. The banter was there, the tension and we even see some court intrigue.
I was so entertained by Arla’s character because even though she is the King’s assassin, she has a kick for court life. On too of that, she is very cynical with her not believing in magic or the dragon tales the people tend to lean on. It was very refreshing to meet an FMC who’s thoughts and belief flew freely. And she never hid it from anyone, she was honest from the beginning.
I admit that the plot was very well set. I didn’t think I would read about that kind of conflict in this book, or that dragons were for real involved. The enemy kingdom made a great villain and Arla’s king switching sides gave it even more feeling to the conflict. I’m really looking forward to Arla meeting up with her king again after everything that has happened. But more than anything, Hark and Arla’s relationship arc was amazing. From hated rivals to working rivals then allies and then lovers? It was great and definitely had great pace.
I was so entertained by Arla’s character because even though she is the King’s assassin, she has a kick for court life. On too of that, she is very cynical with her not believing in magic or the dragon tales the people tend to lean on. It was very refreshing to meet an FMC who’s thoughts and belief flew freely. And she never hid it from anyone, she was honest from the beginning.
I admit that the plot was very well set. I didn’t think I would read about that kind of conflict in this book, or that dragons were for real involved. The enemy kingdom made a great villain and Arla’s king switching sides gave it even more feeling to the conflict. I’m really looking forward to Arla meeting up with her king again after everything that has happened. But more than anything, Hark and Arla’s relationship arc was amazing. From hated rivals to working rivals then allies and then lovers? It was great and definitely had great pace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2025
A hell of a debut novel. Dragonhart is the kind of fantasy that had everything I need;
enemies-to-lovers, a strong FMC seeking revenge, magic and DRAGONS.
Yes, most fantasy novels have strong FMC’s, but how many of them are Assassins to the King? Arla Reinhart has fought to be the best at what she does, and now whilst serving her kingdom, feared by all, she is seeking revenge for the war that caused the death of her parents.
Set in a place where the old religion believed in magic, gods and dragons, Arla simply believes in right and wrong. The wrong being, the neighbouring kingdom who descended on her home years ago on a killing spree in search for the mythical dragons.
Hark Stappen, ambassador for the neighbouring kingdom, has been Arla’s enemy for years. For no other reason than the place he comes from. Happily avoiding each other through the palace for years has become the norm. That is until, the King needs them to work together.
This enemies-to-lovers tale is filled with twists and turns as the two travel on their mission, unearthing heart-breaking truths along the way.
Arla may be feared by all, but not by Stappen.
Fans of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched, this fantasy debut is the perfect addition to your TBR. Filled with mystery and tension, Reinhart and Stappen’s mission becomes the only way to save their kingdoms.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins, One More Chapter for the early release of this arc in exchange for an honest review.
“The dragons are gone, and the kingdoms are falling. Not even the gods can save them now...”
Yes, most fantasy novels have strong FMC’s, but how many of them are Assassins to the King? Arla Reinhart has fought to be the best at what she does, and now whilst serving her kingdom, feared by all, she is seeking revenge for the war that caused the death of her parents.
“She had killed and clawed and fought her way to where she was now.”
Set in a place where the old religion believed in magic, gods and dragons, Arla simply believes in right and wrong. The wrong being, the neighbouring kingdom who descended on her home years ago on a killing spree in search for the mythical dragons.
Hark Stappen, ambassador for the neighbouring kingdom, has been Arla’s enemy for years. For no other reason than the place he comes from. Happily avoiding each other through the palace for years has become the norm. That is until, the King needs them to work together.
This enemies-to-lovers tale is filled with twists and turns as the two travel on their mission, unearthing heart-breaking truths along the way.
Arla may be feared by all, but not by Stappen.
“She was wrath, and fury, and vengeance. She was blood, and fire, and truth, and she would never again be useless.”
Fans of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched, this fantasy debut is the perfect addition to your TBR. Filled with mystery and tension, Reinhart and Stappen’s mission becomes the only way to save their kingdoms.
“Everybody has a little bit of magic inside them, Miss Reinhart, if only you knew where to look.”
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins, One More Chapter for the early release of this arc in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2025
The Dragonhart blurb dragged me in. I mean, I'm a sucker for books with dragons, especially dragon rider books. Who wouldn't want to have a companion that could breathe fire, fly you into the sky and take you where ever you want, and would know you like no one else could. That's pretty dope!
Arla Reinhart is our FMC, the King's Assassin, who is destined to be a dragon rider and I was so looking forward to read a new story, promised to be the newest most awesome book with the tropes we have been force-fed lately. Arla's past trauma is definitely a heavy one that influences her greatly, which is understandable, but it turned her into a one dimensional character. Everything is black and white to her, and while reading this my internal commentary was: "you need some intensive therapy, honey!" She's young enough that her brain isn't fully developed so I'm willing to give her some grace, despite my jaw ache from grinding my teeth.
She swung from this
To this
Which was quite eye roll worthy. But again, young adults are like that according to YA novels these days.
The tropes 'forced proximity', 'FMC seeking revenge', and 'enemies to lovers' I can stomach when they are done right, but they were a bit wishy-washy here but definitely crafted better than other books I've read lately.
The enemy in the enemies to lovers trope, Hark Stappen is a real enemy - ambassador for the country is the reason behind Arla being an orphan, the consequent trauma, and the need for revenge. "He is arrogant, but handsome" and by the color of his blood he is hated on principle (the invisible line decided by humans on a map determines the color of blood, apparently).
They want to kill each other so which makes them enemies in my opinion, unlike how "bully and victim" is portrayed as "enemies to lovers" nowadays. Why oh why is bullying being romanticising ?! It's not sexy, it's traumatising! You can't change my mind on that! Sorry, pet peeve rant over...
The promised dragons showed up late in the book but the build-up was necessary, and since it's a series I will be enjoying my favourite fantasy creature (hopefully) from page one in book two!
There's nothing groundbreaking in this book, or nothing I haven't read before, but it was still a decent read. Dragonhart is a debut so hopefully the annoyances I had with this book will be smoothed out, and shades and dimensions will be added, as Abbie Eaton progresses in her career.
2.75 stars rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for the arc copy in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own
Fun fact: "Arla Foods" is a Danish-Swedish multinational co-operative, the fifth biggest dairy company in the world, and main producer of dairy products in Scandinavia. I could not get that fact out of my head! It was a bit distracting!
Arla Reinhart is our FMC, the King's Assassin, who is destined to be a dragon rider and I was so looking forward to read a new story, promised to be the newest most awesome book with the tropes we have been force-fed lately. Arla's past trauma is definitely a heavy one that influences her greatly, which is understandable, but it turned her into a one dimensional character. Everything is black and white to her, and while reading this my internal commentary was: "you need some intensive therapy, honey!" She's young enough that her brain isn't fully developed so I'm willing to give her some grace, despite my jaw ache from grinding my teeth.
She swung from this
To this
Which was quite eye roll worthy. But again, young adults are like that according to YA novels these days.
The tropes 'forced proximity', 'FMC seeking revenge', and 'enemies to lovers' I can stomach when they are done right, but they were a bit wishy-washy here but definitely crafted better than other books I've read lately.
The enemy in the enemies to lovers trope, Hark Stappen is a real enemy - ambassador for the country is the reason behind Arla being an orphan, the consequent trauma, and the need for revenge. "He is arrogant, but handsome" and by the color of his blood he is hated on principle (the invisible line decided by humans on a map determines the color of blood, apparently).
They want to kill each other so which makes them enemies in my opinion, unlike how "bully and victim" is portrayed as "enemies to lovers" nowadays. Why oh why is bullying being romanticising ?! It's not sexy, it's traumatising! You can't change my mind on that! Sorry, pet peeve rant over...
The promised dragons showed up late in the book but the build-up was necessary, and since it's a series I will be enjoying my favourite fantasy creature (hopefully) from page one in book two!
There's nothing groundbreaking in this book, or nothing I haven't read before, but it was still a decent read. Dragonhart is a debut so hopefully the annoyances I had with this book will be smoothed out, and shades and dimensions will be added, as Abbie Eaton progresses in her career.
2.75 stars rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for the arc copy in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own
Fun fact: "Arla Foods" is a Danish-Swedish multinational co-operative, the fifth biggest dairy company in the world, and main producer of dairy products in Scandinavia. I could not get that fact out of my head! It was a bit distracting!
April 18, 2025
This book is about Arla who gets sent on a mission with Hark, someone she despises with her whole heart, because she blames him for the death of her parents. But unfortunately they are stuck with eachother on this mission and they have to make it work.
I need to start with that I did not finish this book. I have struggled to read at least 10 chapters to be able to give this a fair chance, but I started to get frustrated and irritated so I decided it was fair for me to DNF this book at 27%. I tried my best but I could not get into this. I will try to explain it the best I can, so here we go.
The first chapter was ok. We got a nice introduction into Arla and the story started immediately. However, it feels like Arla's character is build only on hate. Hate for her job, hate for the neighbouring country, hate for her rivals. She even hates when she likes something. To me this feels very very flat. I get that she is angry, but when angry is the entire personality of a person, it is not ok. What I have read was so negative, even the other characters were angry at the world and it honestly felt like anger was everyones personality. Also, this is supposed to be an Adult romantasy, it feels very very very YA. The way the characters are described, only one or two character traits. The FMC acts and behaves like a spoiled teenager in the midst of their puberty where everyone is against them and it is them against the world. She has a very adult job, but the way she acts she honestly sounded more like a 16 year old than an adult. I have no idea in what age range she should fall, because that is not mentioned in the part I have read. Even the conversations with other characters felt flat and young. They are supposed to be adults but I cannot imagine them being adults.
She constantly acts to violence, she is violence and violence is she. There also is a constant "I hate him" vibe going on and it is being mentioned multiple times per chapter.
I got Throne of Glass vibes very early on, but then a temu ripoff from the original. The story was lacking, we were thrown all around, parts I would have loved to know more about were over in a couple scentences and irrelevant things were dragged out immensly. The pacing is weird. They get their mission very early on in the book. Arla and Hark need to travel a long time, perfect time to get to know these characters a bit more. Unfortunately, they are there in no time and I was thoroughly disappointed by that. Great opportunity missed to build a foundation between these two important characters.
I felt frustrated and irritated probably most of the time. The amount of eyerolls I have done are lost to time. I absolutely did not enjoy this.
However, I do think this book would be a nice read if you don't need a lot of character build. I think this would be great if you just started reading fantasy, this could be a nice read to start. It is not overly complicated and even though I find the pacing weird, it is sorta logical?
Anyhow, I think this is a better fit in the YA section and I think that age group would find this book to be a nice read.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc. All opinions are my own.
I need to start with that I did not finish this book. I have struggled to read at least 10 chapters to be able to give this a fair chance, but I started to get frustrated and irritated so I decided it was fair for me to DNF this book at 27%. I tried my best but I could not get into this. I will try to explain it the best I can, so here we go.
The first chapter was ok. We got a nice introduction into Arla and the story started immediately. However, it feels like Arla's character is build only on hate. Hate for her job, hate for the neighbouring country, hate for her rivals. She even hates when she likes something. To me this feels very very flat. I get that she is angry, but when angry is the entire personality of a person, it is not ok. What I have read was so negative, even the other characters were angry at the world and it honestly felt like anger was everyones personality. Also, this is supposed to be an Adult romantasy, it feels very very very YA. The way the characters are described, only one or two character traits. The FMC acts and behaves like a spoiled teenager in the midst of their puberty where everyone is against them and it is them against the world. She has a very adult job, but the way she acts she honestly sounded more like a 16 year old than an adult. I have no idea in what age range she should fall, because that is not mentioned in the part I have read. Even the conversations with other characters felt flat and young. They are supposed to be adults but I cannot imagine them being adults.
She constantly acts to violence, she is violence and violence is she. There also is a constant "I hate him" vibe going on and it is being mentioned multiple times per chapter.
I got Throne of Glass vibes very early on, but then a temu ripoff from the original. The story was lacking, we were thrown all around, parts I would have loved to know more about were over in a couple scentences and irrelevant things were dragged out immensly. The pacing is weird. They get their mission very early on in the book. Arla and Hark need to travel a long time, perfect time to get to know these characters a bit more. Unfortunately, they are there in no time and I was thoroughly disappointed by that. Great opportunity missed to build a foundation between these two important characters.
I felt frustrated and irritated probably most of the time. The amount of eyerolls I have done are lost to time. I absolutely did not enjoy this.
However, I do think this book would be a nice read if you don't need a lot of character build. I think this would be great if you just started reading fantasy, this could be a nice read to start. It is not overly complicated and even though I find the pacing weird, it is sorta logical?
Anyhow, I think this is a better fit in the YA section and I think that age group would find this book to be a nice read.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc. All opinions are my own.
December 9, 2025
I was very excited to dive into this fantasy world, I mean, dragons, enemies to lovers, assassins, kingdoms at war etc. And it was almost there, but just missed the mark a bit. Loved many of the aspects in this story, but I just couldn’t fully connect with the characters. Mainly in the first half of the book, in the second half they got better! Our main character Arla, was not very relatable, I mainly felt irritation towards her, which made it a hard time rooting for her 😅 Hark (our MMC) also said and did some questionable things, that didn’t really do him any favors.
What I did like however was the world building. I quickly got a grasp of how the world works, the political intrigue, the fading magic and the lost dragons. You definitely get the fantasy feel, and the immersive feeling.
A debut novel that’s a little bit rough around the edges, still finding it’s way, but with some work, could truly be great. But just like with tv-shows, you should never judge it based on it’s pilot episode, so I have higher hopes for the second book! Especially since I found the last 30% of the book a lot better and more action-packed! Lots of big secrets are revealed, and a good build up for book two👏🏼.
And like I always say, reading is subjective, so just because this didn’t hit a full home run for me, doesn’t mean it won’t do that for you! So give it a shot if you love romantasy! 🙏🏼
What I did like however was the world building. I quickly got a grasp of how the world works, the political intrigue, the fading magic and the lost dragons. You definitely get the fantasy feel, and the immersive feeling.
A debut novel that’s a little bit rough around the edges, still finding it’s way, but with some work, could truly be great. But just like with tv-shows, you should never judge it based on it’s pilot episode, so I have higher hopes for the second book! Especially since I found the last 30% of the book a lot better and more action-packed! Lots of big secrets are revealed, and a good build up for book two👏🏼.
And like I always say, reading is subjective, so just because this didn’t hit a full home run for me, doesn’t mean it won’t do that for you! So give it a shot if you love romantasy! 🙏🏼
April 15, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.25 stars.
This story was fabulous, I really enjoyed the romantasy style story with a solid plot with political elements throughout. I found the story pulled on your heart strings one moment and had you livid the next, I adore the FMC with how deadly and brash she was with a heart of gold. I couldn’t stop reading this and I was initially drawn in with the intense banter between the FMC Arla and MMC Hark, it was fiery to say the least.
This is a true enemies to lovers fantasy with unique magic, political intrigue with myths and secrets woven into the heart of the story. I will 100% be reading any future books surrounding this world and it’s characters.
This story was fabulous, I really enjoyed the romantasy style story with a solid plot with political elements throughout. I found the story pulled on your heart strings one moment and had you livid the next, I adore the FMC with how deadly and brash she was with a heart of gold. I couldn’t stop reading this and I was initially drawn in with the intense banter between the FMC Arla and MMC Hark, it was fiery to say the least.
This is a true enemies to lovers fantasy with unique magic, political intrigue with myths and secrets woven into the heart of the story. I will 100% be reading any future books surrounding this world and it’s characters.
April 19, 2025
Explicit. Reads more like a YA book, and is very TOG-coded - it felt like it could easily have been part of the Assassin's Blade short stories. The plot felt a little underdeveloped, but it might be because it played so heavily into popular tropes. I still loved how cosy it made me feel, the relationships between some of the characters and how quick a read it was. All in all, it's a sweet and quick read.
April 14, 2025
I love the way this one is set up. Arla is an assassin for one of the kingdoms at war, and she's been sent with Hark, of all people, on a diplomatic mission to discover why shipments are going missing.
The kingdoms are struggling to survive while their Kings revel in riches, and it makes Arla sick. She doesn't know how Hark can put up with this but she soon finds out more than she bargained for. Secrets, betrayal, and ancient magics that were thought to have disappeared ages ago will resurface and become known again. But what could that possibly have to do with Arla?
The kingdoms are struggling to survive while their Kings revel in riches, and it makes Arla sick. She doesn't know how Hark can put up with this but she soon finds out more than she bargained for. Secrets, betrayal, and ancient magics that were thought to have disappeared ages ago will resurface and become known again. But what could that possibly have to do with Arla?
April 20, 2025
Oh, how I loved the majestic dragons of Dragon Hart! This fantasy debut from Abbie Eaton is captivating. There are plenty of adventures, thrills, surprises and heart-stopping events that kept me on the edge of my seat. The story begins at a slower pace but this allowed me to get to know the lay of the land, the traits of the main characters and the predicaments they face. But as the plot progresses, so does the action and what a wild ride it is!
Yes, the dragons have disappeared for a long a time but we discover the reason and their whereabouts and the promised one that ushers in a new age. Arla Reinhart is the personal assassin to the King of Hadalyn. She was taken in by the Hadalyn King, after her parents were killed by the opposing kingdom. Her painful losses fuel her determination to rid the evil forces that surround her. She has trained and worked hard to climb the ranks and is feared by all for her warfare skills and astute awareness. She is not a believer of gods or dragons, though, for it seemed they abandoned her when she needed them most—to save her parents. This poses some issues and blind spots in her vision. But we know she is going to be challenged and confronted on these points for this is a story about magic and dragons! And the rise of one who will become the Dragon Hart, the leader of these magnificent beasts.
A perilous assignment is set before her when important shipments go missing. This thievery affects the kingdoms welfare and so Arla is asked to restore order. But not alone. She is tasked with hooking up with Hark Stappen, who is part of the kingdom who killed her parents. This intense hatred for Hark and what he represents sets her on edge. This emotional connection and conflict will definitely pose some major issues. Lack of trust being one of them. But she must learn to co-exist with Hark and make plans to save the kingdoms. Arla is forced to work with the arrogant, handsome ambassador, for together they must solve the dilemma that each of their kingdoms have requested of them. It will take them into places of mixed alliances, where they will dine with royalty, fight in taverns, jails and castles. Along the way Arla learns some surprising things about her partner in crime that will cause her to look upon him in a different light. Her adventure will unveil many secrets and cause a transformation in her, too. She will learn more about her heritage: that the blood in her veins is very different than she expected. She will discover her biggest asset and purpose. Adventures with Hark will open her eyes to a world she has never known.
I loved the tension between Arla and Hark, then the attraction but the surprises are delightful. The Dragons are glorious and those scenes sent my heart and imagination soaring. I was impressed with the writing skill of this debut author. The dialogue suits the characters and the construction of the fantasy realm setting is appropriate. This first book is set up well for the continuation of the story of these fascinating people. Book one contains powerful enemies, a tale of revenge, an enemies to lovers trope, a saviour-hero plot, unbelief - belief in magic, unveiling of life shattering secrets, a battle for freedom from slavery, a new call on Arla’s life and the release of dragon power and protection. As mentioned, I loved the dragon scenes as they are gloriously conveyed in stunning detail and are among my favourites in the novel!
This Dragon Hart debut is an admirable imaginative effort that I greatly enjoyed. It will be exciting to see the next segment, too. I, for one, will be willing and waiting anxiously to read this sparring couple’s next adventures. What new kingdom surprises await us? Bring it on, Abbie! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for the review copy.
Yes, the dragons have disappeared for a long a time but we discover the reason and their whereabouts and the promised one that ushers in a new age. Arla Reinhart is the personal assassin to the King of Hadalyn. She was taken in by the Hadalyn King, after her parents were killed by the opposing kingdom. Her painful losses fuel her determination to rid the evil forces that surround her. She has trained and worked hard to climb the ranks and is feared by all for her warfare skills and astute awareness. She is not a believer of gods or dragons, though, for it seemed they abandoned her when she needed them most—to save her parents. This poses some issues and blind spots in her vision. But we know she is going to be challenged and confronted on these points for this is a story about magic and dragons! And the rise of one who will become the Dragon Hart, the leader of these magnificent beasts.
A perilous assignment is set before her when important shipments go missing. This thievery affects the kingdoms welfare and so Arla is asked to restore order. But not alone. She is tasked with hooking up with Hark Stappen, who is part of the kingdom who killed her parents. This intense hatred for Hark and what he represents sets her on edge. This emotional connection and conflict will definitely pose some major issues. Lack of trust being one of them. But she must learn to co-exist with Hark and make plans to save the kingdoms. Arla is forced to work with the arrogant, handsome ambassador, for together they must solve the dilemma that each of their kingdoms have requested of them. It will take them into places of mixed alliances, where they will dine with royalty, fight in taverns, jails and castles. Along the way Arla learns some surprising things about her partner in crime that will cause her to look upon him in a different light. Her adventure will unveil many secrets and cause a transformation in her, too. She will learn more about her heritage: that the blood in her veins is very different than she expected. She will discover her biggest asset and purpose. Adventures with Hark will open her eyes to a world she has never known.
I loved the tension between Arla and Hark, then the attraction but the surprises are delightful. The Dragons are glorious and those scenes sent my heart and imagination soaring. I was impressed with the writing skill of this debut author. The dialogue suits the characters and the construction of the fantasy realm setting is appropriate. This first book is set up well for the continuation of the story of these fascinating people. Book one contains powerful enemies, a tale of revenge, an enemies to lovers trope, a saviour-hero plot, unbelief - belief in magic, unveiling of life shattering secrets, a battle for freedom from slavery, a new call on Arla’s life and the release of dragon power and protection. As mentioned, I loved the dragon scenes as they are gloriously conveyed in stunning detail and are among my favourites in the novel!
This Dragon Hart debut is an admirable imaginative effort that I greatly enjoyed. It will be exciting to see the next segment, too. I, for one, will be willing and waiting anxiously to read this sparring couple’s next adventures. What new kingdom surprises await us? Bring it on, Abbie! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for the review copy.
April 18, 2025
I’m not too sure why I chose this book. It’s not anywhere close to what I usually read. It felt very Ya-ish and predictable. I did like Arla and her toughness just not her foul mouth. I think there’s a definite audience for this type of book however it wasn’t me.
March 26, 2025
I did really like this book! We love an enemies to lovers situation and the magic was really interesting. Love a dragon bond and when the dragons are sassy. The only thing was that it felt a bit rushed. It being labeled as book 1 implies that the story will continue so I hope that is the case because I feel pretty unresolved at the moment. Getting to the secret kingdom and the enemies suddenly becoming lovers just felt really fast and sudden. Just felt a bit jarring to race towards the finish line and all of a sudden it was over.
March 14, 2025
A great debut for the fantasy / romantasy genre. Abbie Eaton has managed to pull together a cast of characters that will open up a great series.
Our FMC is strong and a clear leader from the start and never wavers from that character type. I also like that the author doesn’t turn her into a hidden magic wielder, even though she is really a hidden prophecy in her own right but it doesn’t take away anything of what she has achieved in her own right.
The romance between her and Hark is definitely one that leans on the love hate and creates some banter and sparks.
I’m not sure I’m a fan of the ending and maybe the Dragonhart element of the story is almost like an afterthought and felt like it had been woven in towards the end of writing or even editing…maybe this is where it will open up if it does become a series…who knows, but I do think whether it’s Dragonharts or Harks crew I’ll be looking out for future Abbie Eaton books and this series in particular
I received this book as an ARC and provide an honest review
Our FMC is strong and a clear leader from the start and never wavers from that character type. I also like that the author doesn’t turn her into a hidden magic wielder, even though she is really a hidden prophecy in her own right but it doesn’t take away anything of what she has achieved in her own right.
The romance between her and Hark is definitely one that leans on the love hate and creates some banter and sparks.
I’m not sure I’m a fan of the ending and maybe the Dragonhart element of the story is almost like an afterthought and felt like it had been woven in towards the end of writing or even editing…maybe this is where it will open up if it does become a series…who knows, but I do think whether it’s Dragonharts or Harks crew I’ll be looking out for future Abbie Eaton books and this series in particular
I received this book as an ARC and provide an honest review
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