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Ashen Embrace (Divine Destinies
"A fate sealed in fire. A love written in blood."
She was meant to be a sacrifice, not a queen.
When the fairy kingdom offers Princess Vivianora to the dragon shape-shifter Draelius, it is not out of kindness. Three hundred years without a mate, and now, her fate has doomed do be sealed in fire.
Thrown into the dragon’s lair, Vivianora refuses to surrender. She fights. She flees. She plots his downfall. But the beast is not what she expected. And when she comes face to face with the man behind the monster, her hatred turns into something far more dangerous.
A stolen night. A dance beneath darkened skies. A bond neither of them should want, but one neither can deny. The seers have always warned that dragons destroy the ones they love.
Will she survive his fire - or will he be the one who burns?
A dark fantasy of sacrifice, survival, and forbidden love.
THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
INCLUDES A TRIGGER WARNING MESSAGE ON THE FIRST PAGE.
This book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but for a richer experience and deeper connection to the world and returning characters, it's highly recommended to read previous books in the series.
#DarkFantasy #EnemiesToLovers #Romantasy #DragonShifter #FaeRomance #StarCrossedLovers #ForbiddenRomance
She was meant to be a sacrifice, not a queen.
When the fairy kingdom offers Princess Vivianora to the dragon shape-shifter Draelius, it is not out of kindness. Three hundred years without a mate, and now, her fate has doomed do be sealed in fire.
Thrown into the dragon’s lair, Vivianora refuses to surrender. She fights. She flees. She plots his downfall. But the beast is not what she expected. And when she comes face to face with the man behind the monster, her hatred turns into something far more dangerous.
A stolen night. A dance beneath darkened skies. A bond neither of them should want, but one neither can deny. The seers have always warned that dragons destroy the ones they love.
Will she survive his fire - or will he be the one who burns?
A dark fantasy of sacrifice, survival, and forbidden love.
THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
INCLUDES A TRIGGER WARNING MESSAGE ON THE FIRST PAGE.
This book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but for a richer experience and deeper connection to the world and returning characters, it's highly recommended to read previous books in the series.
#DarkFantasy #EnemiesToLovers #Romantasy #DragonShifter #FaeRomance #StarCrossedLovers #ForbiddenRomance
507 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2025
6 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Dari A. Malaunt
12 books104 followersDari A. Malaunt weaves fantasy romance with a dark twist, exploring the complex struggles of love, power, and redemption in her characters' journeys. She’s the mind behind "Horns Unveiled" romantasy duology, "Unrequited Love" dark romance trilogy, "Divine Destinies" dark romantasy series and "Worshipped by Darkness" paranormal romance series. When she's not writing, you can find her balancing life as a student and office worker, often dreaming of the worlds she creates, where magic and passion collide.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
July 1, 2025
THE ENDING. IM SOBBING. WHY WHY WHY. This book is one of those books where you open the 1st page, and then after about 5 minutes, you look at the page and see that ur in the 200s and have been reading for hours. This book was the cure for my upcoming reading slump (or maybe I'll get the slump after this book because it was just that amazing), and now what do I do with my life? this book has been my life for the past few days/week. What happens now? I really really need to read the next book now. I just ugh doo. The writing is so good that at one point, when the FMC was feeling anxious and stressed, I felt that too, which is crazy. Overall, this book is amazing, and I don't know what to say about the book without spoiling anything. the plot twist left me with my mouth open, and I don't know how I'm supposed to move on now.
August 26, 2025
I've finished reading 'Ashen Embrace' written by Daria Malaunt. This is a dark fantasy and the third book in the interconnected standalone series called 'Devine Destinies'.
"'Beware the enemies you create."
I've said this before and I will say it again... I don't easily feel the big feelings reading a book, but Dari seems to get me there every single time. I loved it, but I need time to process this ending and how sad it makes me feel. And I know it sounds strange, but that's a good thing. I love books that leave you like that. They are worth it!
"Peace was never so simple. It was never just about magic."
This story is about Vivianora and Draelius. Vivianora is a fae princess that gets exiled and Draelius is a dragon shifter who's chained in more than one way. Both doomed to find each other in darkness or is it fate that brings them together in their downfall?
"I was a stranger among my own and my own among strangers."
What I like about Dari's stories and what I like and love about Ashen Embrace as well, is the combination of lust and passion, a developing story with evolving characters, plottwist that leave you gasping in combination with dark, deep and very important themes and subjects. This makes the story not only entertaining, but it gives it an extra layer that makes the story more tangible, vivid and recognizable.
"It felt like I finally understood what it meant to burn together -- without turning to ash."
Dari's stories are usually longer as planned, but this is something you don't notice while reading. When you start, you will be sucked in and you will just go with the flow and you won't be able to stop reading. This again was an amazing story and it deserves five stars.
"'Beware the enemies you create."
I've said this before and I will say it again... I don't easily feel the big feelings reading a book, but Dari seems to get me there every single time. I loved it, but I need time to process this ending and how sad it makes me feel. And I know it sounds strange, but that's a good thing. I love books that leave you like that. They are worth it!
"Peace was never so simple. It was never just about magic."
This story is about Vivianora and Draelius. Vivianora is a fae princess that gets exiled and Draelius is a dragon shifter who's chained in more than one way. Both doomed to find each other in darkness or is it fate that brings them together in their downfall?
"I was a stranger among my own and my own among strangers."
What I like about Dari's stories and what I like and love about Ashen Embrace as well, is the combination of lust and passion, a developing story with evolving characters, plottwist that leave you gasping in combination with dark, deep and very important themes and subjects. This makes the story not only entertaining, but it gives it an extra layer that makes the story more tangible, vivid and recognizable.
"It felt like I finally understood what it meant to burn together -- without turning to ash."
Dari's stories are usually longer as planned, but this is something you don't notice while reading. When you start, you will be sucked in and you will just go with the flow and you won't be able to stop reading. This again was an amazing story and it deserves five stars.
June 13, 2025
ARC review
Well this book is a treat! A 5✨️ book to me! It has a gorgeous love story, morally gray characters and a lot of spice!
The characters would burn the world for their love and that is the kind of fantasy book I love to read! I inhaled the pages, couldn't let this book down! The love between Vivianora and Draelius is ,for me, at least, comparable with Hades and Persephone from Scarlett St.Claire 's series, and most likely I will re-read Ashen Embrace with the same pleasure I re-read St.Claire's series. This book is certainly on my favorite of the year list!
Thank you for it,Dari A. Malaunt!🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Well this book is a treat! A 5✨️ book to me! It has a gorgeous love story, morally gray characters and a lot of spice!
The characters would burn the world for their love and that is the kind of fantasy book I love to read! I inhaled the pages, couldn't let this book down! The love between Vivianora and Draelius is ,for me, at least, comparable with Hades and Persephone from Scarlett St.Claire 's series, and most likely I will re-read Ashen Embrace with the same pleasure I re-read St.Claire's series. This book is certainly on my favorite of the year list!
Thank you for it,Dari A. Malaunt!🖤
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 7, 2025
This sizzling fantasy romance delivers everything—a fierce dragon shifter, an exiled princess with fire in her veins, and a bond forged through forbidden love and vengeance. Their connection is dangerous, passionate, and utterly addictive. As secrets unravel and kingdoms burn, the chemistry between them ignites page after page with plenty of spice and no shortage of emotional heat. Perfect for fans of revenge plots, royal drama, and lovers who refuse to be tamed.
Warning: You will need a fan.
Warning: You will need a fan.
August 31, 2025
I loved how there were interconnected realms involved in this story where a dragon shifter fell in love with a fae princess. This story for sure, was keeping me on my toes, and it was almost as if it lost time. Reading this story made me feel like there was no time.
This was a read that I was not able to put down! I enjoyed every minute of it! It was an amazing opportunity to be able to get an ARC copy of this read!
This was a read that I was not able to put down! I enjoyed every minute of it! It was an amazing opportunity to be able to get an ARC copy of this read!
July 12, 2025
Ashen Embrace
5/5 🐝
Devoured 50% in one sitting—this book had me tail twitching from page one.
👑 Vivinora: Fae princess, betrayed, burned, and rising with a vengeance. She is the moment.
🐉 Draelius: Dragon shifter, cursed, broody, and dangerously protective. Touch her and die.
💔 Rohan: Best friend or worst heartbreak? I’m still hissing.
This story delivers dragon daddy drama, Fae fire, and one twist you won’t see coming. Fate is brutal, destiny is calling—run to read it.
5/5 🐝
Devoured 50% in one sitting—this book had me tail twitching from page one.
👑 Vivinora: Fae princess, betrayed, burned, and rising with a vengeance. She is the moment.
🐉 Draelius: Dragon shifter, cursed, broody, and dangerously protective. Touch her and die.
💔 Rohan: Best friend or worst heartbreak? I’m still hissing.
This story delivers dragon daddy drama, Fae fire, and one twist you won’t see coming. Fate is brutal, destiny is calling—run to read it.
July 13, 2025
Don't know what to say without spoilers! A dragon daddy, a princess set to die for being unmated, then saved by said dragon daddy. A true bond that shows love with no boundaries, and an ending that will have you in tears. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 31, 2025
What a wild ride. This book of magic and love will keep you on the edge of your seat just waiting to see what happens next.
July 15, 2025
ARC review ~ 4/5 ⭐️ This book was full of spice and romance between a dragon shifter and a fae. I loved every minute of it. The ending was a whole other curve ball that I wasn’t expecting but loved it nonetheless. I will definitely recommend this series to others.
Thank you so much for this opportunity to read the book early!!
Thank you so much for this opportunity to read the book early!!
July 4, 2025
"A fate sealed in fire. A love written in blood."
This book brought everything that I was looking for in a great dark romantasy. It had love, action, and trauma and it definitely had spice.
I love how raw the emotions were that the characters experienced. They were so well written that you literally felt those emotions as well. Which means during this book you find yourself rooting for them and then being angry and then crying uncontrollably. That's a good book and a great author when they make you feel all those things.
I will say, be prepared for 5 chili pepper spice because there is a lot of it. While I thoroughly enjoyed the spice, I would have liked to have had more of the story. However, I really enjoyed this book.
This book brought everything that I was looking for in a great dark romantasy. It had love, action, and trauma and it definitely had spice.
I love how raw the emotions were that the characters experienced. They were so well written that you literally felt those emotions as well. Which means during this book you find yourself rooting for them and then being angry and then crying uncontrollably. That's a good book and a great author when they make you feel all those things.
I will say, be prepared for 5 chili pepper spice because there is a lot of it. While I thoroughly enjoyed the spice, I would have liked to have had more of the story. However, I really enjoyed this book.
July 6, 2025
Arc Review:
Well this book was epic! I couldn’t put it down! I loved the world, the characters and the flow of the story (plus the spice 🌶️!)
Vivi just wants someone to care for her after many years of being overlooked by her family. She’s a bada** and I loved the journey she went through.
Draelius is our hot AF dragon shifter (😍) after Vivi is sent to him as a sacrifice he decides to use her to his advantage, but sparks begin to fly!
The one thing I will say is, the ending BROKE me. Whyyyyyy!!
Honestly loved this book! Will be recommending to EVERYONE!
Well this book was epic! I couldn’t put it down! I loved the world, the characters and the flow of the story (plus the spice 🌶️!)
Vivi just wants someone to care for her after many years of being overlooked by her family. She’s a bada** and I loved the journey she went through.
Draelius is our hot AF dragon shifter (😍) after Vivi is sent to him as a sacrifice he decides to use her to his advantage, but sparks begin to fly!
The one thing I will say is, the ending BROKE me. Whyyyyyy!!
Honestly loved this book! Will be recommending to EVERYONE!
June 26, 2025
I was not ready… and I loved every second of It 🔥🐉
I knew Ashen Embrace was going to be spicy, but this level of heat? I. Was. Not. Prepared.
This might be the spiciest book I’ve ever read. Like, someone please check on me. I’m still fanning myself. But what hit even harder was the emotional depth behind all that heat. The story is raw, intense, and beautifully heart-wrenching in the best way. These characters aren’t just fantasy -they’re painfully real in how they face trauma, love, rage, and the messy magic in between.
Enemies to lovers? Check.
Hope and heartbreak? Absolutely.
Dragon shifters and a broken, exiled fae princess clawing her way toward something like healing? YES.
My emotions were served on a silver platter and then scorched.
Draelius is my new fictional husband. No further questions.
By the end, I was sobbing thanks to a certain heart-shattering moment - yes, Dari, I’m looking at you. I don’t know what to do with myself now that I’ve reached the end. This book made me feel everything, and I’m beyond grateful I got to be among the first to read it.
Infinite stars. Literally.
Even though dragon shifters don’t exist in my real life (tragically), I ache for their world like it’s my own.
And THAT cliffhanger?
Dari, you villainous genius.
I need Eclipsed Dominion like yesterday.
Please????????????????? 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Highly recommend to anyone who craves dragon smut with soul. And have you SEEN that exclusive paperback edition? It’s a piece of art. I can’t wait to add it to my shelf alongside the other treasures from this series. Just four more to go until I have all six in their rightful place.
Thank you for the ARC!!!!!
I knew Ashen Embrace was going to be spicy, but this level of heat? I. Was. Not. Prepared.
This might be the spiciest book I’ve ever read. Like, someone please check on me. I’m still fanning myself. But what hit even harder was the emotional depth behind all that heat. The story is raw, intense, and beautifully heart-wrenching in the best way. These characters aren’t just fantasy -they’re painfully real in how they face trauma, love, rage, and the messy magic in between.
Enemies to lovers? Check.
Hope and heartbreak? Absolutely.
Dragon shifters and a broken, exiled fae princess clawing her way toward something like healing? YES.
My emotions were served on a silver platter and then scorched.
Draelius is my new fictional husband. No further questions.
By the end, I was sobbing thanks to a certain heart-shattering moment - yes, Dari, I’m looking at you. I don’t know what to do with myself now that I’ve reached the end. This book made me feel everything, and I’m beyond grateful I got to be among the first to read it.
Infinite stars. Literally.
Even though dragon shifters don’t exist in my real life (tragically), I ache for their world like it’s my own.
And THAT cliffhanger?
Dari, you villainous genius.
I need Eclipsed Dominion like yesterday.
Please????????????????? 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
Highly recommend to anyone who craves dragon smut with soul. And have you SEEN that exclusive paperback edition? It’s a piece of art. I can’t wait to add it to my shelf alongside the other treasures from this series. Just four more to go until I have all six in their rightful place.
Thank you for the ARC!!!!!
July 3, 2025
I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Ashen Embrace. This is the third book in the Divine Destinies series of interconnected stand-alones. With each book I read by Dari I see growth in her writing style. If you enjoy fantasy romance this is a book you might like. Something to keep in mind is the majority of her world building happens in the first book so if you haven’t read it, you may be a little lost with how some things connect and what exactly is happening.
June 21, 2025
This book is unapologetically raw, intense, and emotionally gripping. Ashen Embrace dives deep into a dark fae realm ruled by a twisted king who demands sacrifices his people can’t refuse.
Vivianora, a fae princess without a mate after 300 years, thought her biggest problem was loneliness—until her father orders her execution. Her journey from betrayal to unexpected love with a dragon shifter, Draelius, is unforgettable. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their bond? Soul-shattering.
I absolutely loved this story. It’s perfect for anyone who adores morally gray characters, high-stakes romance, and a touch of spice that’s both meaningful and well-written. If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t enough—this book will hit you right in the heart.
Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’m so glad I got the chance to read it!
⭐���⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vivianora, a fae princess without a mate after 300 years, thought her biggest problem was loneliness—until her father orders her execution. Her journey from betrayal to unexpected love with a dragon shifter, Draelius, is unforgettable. Their chemistry? Off the charts. Their bond? Soul-shattering.
I absolutely loved this story. It’s perfect for anyone who adores morally gray characters, high-stakes romance, and a touch of spice that’s both meaningful and well-written. If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t enough—this book will hit you right in the heart.
Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’m so glad I got the chance to read it!
⭐���⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2025
This book broke my heart. “And we were part of it, living breathing proof of that peace, rebels turned rulers, finding joy in that stillness.” It was so easy for me to fall in love with Vivi and Draelius’ story and the obstacles they faced. I won’t give away much, but I can tell you that the ending wrecked me and the cliffhanger felt so ominous. Such an awesome book!
June 23, 2025
Great book and story line. Again, a little heartbroken with the way things turned out. Definitely spicy and keeps your imagination flowing. I really hope Dari A. Malaunt keeps the main male characters story going because I believe it will be extremely interesting to see what happens.
June 22, 2025
This book is 70% smut, 30% plot and I’m not mad about it, because it’s hot. So very hot. Fire breathing dragon hot. Needing several cold showers hot. The plot was heartbreaking but I loved it all the same. Another fantastic work from one of my favourite fantastic indie authors
June 14, 2025
This book is unapologetically raw, heavy and real. Ashen Embrace by Dari I. Malaunt allows you to take a look at what happens when a fae king becomes twisted and power hungry. He will force his people to make sacrifices they are powerless to say no to.
👸 The princess has lived for 300 years without finding a mate. That is the least of her problems. She thought her father loved her then he orders her executed. She’s worthless since she hasn’t found a mate.
🐉 We have all been there. Not good enough! Alone! Family abandons us! If I found a dragon shifter and fell madly, deeply in love could I accept him as my mate!
⭐️ Absolutely, unequivocally I loved this book!
👸 The princess has lived for 300 years without finding a mate. That is the least of her problems. She thought her father loved her then he orders her executed. She’s worthless since she hasn’t found a mate.
🐉 We have all been there. Not good enough! Alone! Family abandons us! If I found a dragon shifter and fell madly, deeply in love could I accept him as my mate!
⭐️ Absolutely, unequivocally I loved this book!
June 9, 2025
Oh my god. I was on the edge of my seat with this book and with goosebumps! I sobbed at the end but I couldn’t stop reading 🖤.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2025
Each of this authors books have gotten better and better each one. This series doesn’t necessarily have to be read together, but I highly suggest it as the connections between them becomes more prominent with each book. For this book, I feel it’s important to have read book one, you’ll understand when will understand at the end of this book.
When Vivi turns 300, her birthday ball is the turning point in her life since she has yet to find her true mate. Drae is a dragon shifter that has been alone for so long after the Fae overtook his people. Cursed to be at the beck and call to the Fae King, after the princesses birthday ball, and not finding her mate there, her father, the king, sends her to her execution by dragon fire. How will fate intervene to save them from their cruel torture.
I truly loved this book. It is SPICY 🌶️ 🥵, and there are many trigger warnings. But if you have no triggers and are interested in an intriguing dragon shifter, check this out!
When Vivi turns 300, her birthday ball is the turning point in her life since she has yet to find her true mate. Drae is a dragon shifter that has been alone for so long after the Fae overtook his people. Cursed to be at the beck and call to the Fae King, after the princesses birthday ball, and not finding her mate there, her father, the king, sends her to her execution by dragon fire. How will fate intervene to save them from their cruel torture.
I truly loved this book. It is SPICY 🌶️ 🥵, and there are many trigger warnings. But if you have no triggers and are interested in an intriguing dragon shifter, check this out!
July 3, 2025
NON SPOILER EARLY ARC REVIEW:
✨♥️ 🐉🐉🐲🐉🐉♥️ Here there be Dragons…
If you’re a fan of Rhage from the Black Dagger Brotherhood and the dragon shifter books of Rebecca F. Kinney then meet your new dragon shifting dream daddy complete with double peens 🍆🍆…
Here we meet a princess 👑 but Vivanora is nothing like the whimsical empty headed fairytale archetype, she’s head strong, fierce and heading for the adventure of a life time.. in a Kingdom where true love truly conquers all it’s a dangerous thing to be a princess 👑
Dari has truly out done herself here…the author who so masterfully brought us exotic, erotic and dangerous tales of meddling angels and unrequited love returns with a fantasy romance powerhouse which belongs on your shelf besides Fourth Wing, The Shadow Hunters novels and Sarah J. Maas.
5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️🌟⭐️⭐️
✨♥️ 🐉🐉🐲🐉🐉♥️ Here there be Dragons…
If you’re a fan of Rhage from the Black Dagger Brotherhood and the dragon shifter books of Rebecca F. Kinney then meet your new dragon shifting dream daddy complete with double peens 🍆🍆…
Here we meet a princess 👑 but Vivanora is nothing like the whimsical empty headed fairytale archetype, she’s head strong, fierce and heading for the adventure of a life time.. in a Kingdom where true love truly conquers all it’s a dangerous thing to be a princess 👑
Dari has truly out done herself here…the author who so masterfully brought us exotic, erotic and dangerous tales of meddling angels and unrequited love returns with a fantasy romance powerhouse which belongs on your shelf besides Fourth Wing, The Shadow Hunters novels and Sarah J. Maas.
5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️🌟⭐️⭐️
August 25, 2025
Vivianora is a Fae princess, and on her 300th birthday, since she still hasn’t found her mate, she is sentenced to death by her father, and not just any death, but to be burned by dragon fire. So, she is thrown into the dragon’s lair, the very one chosen to end her life.
A kind of “under one roof” situation, if you will, only here we have a lair, and instead of a regular male lead, there’s a dragon who can shift forms, turning into an extremely attractive, arrogant… bossy and possessive man.
Vivianora tries to fit into “society’s expectations,” being considered an old maid for not having found a mate yet. Draelius lives in isolation, bound by an unwanted oath, with no one left by his side. Somehow, the two manage to strike a deal in order to gain the freedom they both crave. Little do they know that love itself will be the key to the freedom they seek. ❤️
An intense story in every sense, spicy AF 🥵, with broken characters who find solace in one another. I followed their journey breathlessly, my temperature rising 🌡️ more than once. Draelius has a very particular quality 🫢 and my imagination definitely ran wild during some of the hotter scenes 🫣. It was impossible not to get attached to them, not to see myself in some of their choices. I rooted for them, my heart broke for them, especially for Draelius, who, I felt, suffered the most in this story, though Vivianora also never found her peace.
I’m really curious to see how the series will end, because I have a hunch… and I can’t wait to see if I’m right 🫣.
Especially since the ending let me with a desire to know more.
A kind of “under one roof” situation, if you will, only here we have a lair, and instead of a regular male lead, there’s a dragon who can shift forms, turning into an extremely attractive, arrogant… bossy and possessive man.
Vivianora tries to fit into “society’s expectations,” being considered an old maid for not having found a mate yet. Draelius lives in isolation, bound by an unwanted oath, with no one left by his side. Somehow, the two manage to strike a deal in order to gain the freedom they both crave. Little do they know that love itself will be the key to the freedom they seek. ❤️
An intense story in every sense, spicy AF 🥵, with broken characters who find solace in one another. I followed their journey breathlessly, my temperature rising 🌡️ more than once. Draelius has a very particular quality 🫢 and my imagination definitely ran wild during some of the hotter scenes 🫣. It was impossible not to get attached to them, not to see myself in some of their choices. I rooted for them, my heart broke for them, especially for Draelius, who, I felt, suffered the most in this story, though Vivianora also never found her peace.
I’m really curious to see how the series will end, because I have a hunch… and I can’t wait to see if I’m right 🫣.
Especially since the ending let me with a desire to know more.
August 26, 2025
This is definitely my favourite of the series. Each can be read as a standalone, but the series has character overlap building to a tale of grief and vengeance, so I would recommend reading them in order.
When the Fae king sentences his daughter to death by dragon fire for failing to find a mate, Vivi reluctantly faces her fate, except the dragon meant to kill her is her soulmate, and it begins a journey of forbidden love, possessive passions, and a brutal destiny.
This unapologetically drags you in and doesn't let you go. I loved the building passion, the dragon's literal burn the world for her energy, and all the twists, chaos and emotional damage.
Draelius is a possessive dominant dragon king who will not part with his new treasure, and isn't afraid to put his skills and quirky body parts to use.
It had lots of spice, revenge, desperation, villains to hate, sacrifice, and a twisted ending that will break you apart.
It explores the miracle of soul mates, the fears of loneliness, and all the rage and vengeance in a raw way.
At its heart it's an unexpected love story between a princess and a dragon, but its foundations are driven by trauma, loss, connection and heartbreak.
When the Fae king sentences his daughter to death by dragon fire for failing to find a mate, Vivi reluctantly faces her fate, except the dragon meant to kill her is her soulmate, and it begins a journey of forbidden love, possessive passions, and a brutal destiny.
This unapologetically drags you in and doesn't let you go. I loved the building passion, the dragon's literal burn the world for her energy, and all the twists, chaos and emotional damage.
Draelius is a possessive dominant dragon king who will not part with his new treasure, and isn't afraid to put his skills and quirky body parts to use.
It had lots of spice, revenge, desperation, villains to hate, sacrifice, and a twisted ending that will break you apart.
It explores the miracle of soul mates, the fears of loneliness, and all the rage and vengeance in a raw way.
At its heart it's an unexpected love story between a princess and a dragon, but its foundations are driven by trauma, loss, connection and heartbreak.
August 26, 2025
Dark, emotional, and unforgettable
Ashen Embrace by Dari A. Malaunt is a breathtaking blend of raw emotion, haunting atmosphere, and gripping storytelling. From the very first chapter, the writing pulls you into a world where shadows and longing collide, and every page drips with intensity.
What I loved most was how deeply layered the characters are—torn between pain, desire, and redemption. Their struggles feel so real that it’s impossible not to be swept up in their journey. Malaunt has a gift for weaving lyrical prose with gut-wrenching drama, and the result is a story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
If you enjoy books that are darkly poetic, emotionally charged, and unapologetically bold, Ashen Embrace is one you won’t forget. This isn’t just a read—it’s an experience.
✨ Highly recommend for fans of gothic romance, tragic love, and stories that explore the beauty hidden in darkness.
Ashen Embrace by Dari A. Malaunt is a breathtaking blend of raw emotion, haunting atmosphere, and gripping storytelling. From the very first chapter, the writing pulls you into a world where shadows and longing collide, and every page drips with intensity.
What I loved most was how deeply layered the characters are—torn between pain, desire, and redemption. Their struggles feel so real that it’s impossible not to be swept up in their journey. Malaunt has a gift for weaving lyrical prose with gut-wrenching drama, and the result is a story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page.
If you enjoy books that are darkly poetic, emotionally charged, and unapologetically bold, Ashen Embrace is one you won’t forget. This isn’t just a read—it’s an experience.
✨ Highly recommend for fans of gothic romance, tragic love, and stories that explore the beauty hidden in darkness.
August 27, 2025
Okay wow.. just wow.. to say I am heartbroken at the end of this book is an understatement. Like completely shattered apart of all the endings I did not except what happened to happened. So just know this story does not have a happy ending as our lovely author said not all can have happy endings but man does it hurt. Aside from the heartbreak this was an amazing story 100% loved it all. What can be said a dragon shifter and a discarded fae princess get together for revenge and freedom and well a story blooms and what a beautiful story it was. I felt like I was there with them in the world and when I got to the heartbreak I felt it completely. Please trust me when I say you don’t wanna miss reading this there will be betrayal, heartbreak, tears, and laughter but also tons of spice that hits everytime. This releases August 31st so go mark your calendars and have this on your list to read. 🥰
August 28, 2025
No words can describe how this book made me feel but one came to mine masterpiece 🖤…from the beginning of the story to the end was chefs kiss 5 ⭐️..she is a princess and he is a dragon..for a thousand years he waited for his mate and for 300 years she thought she was broken and had no mate until one night her father the king sent her to be destroyed by the dragon. One thing led to another and they feel in love after a rocky start..they both come up with a plan to take back the kingdom and break the curse that kept them from bonding! Once that was broke they bonded and married. Her family was gone destroyed by the dragon and here came the sad part……well you will have to read just to find out
August 28, 2025
Wow. This book broke me. I was definitely not expecting this ending and I am heartbroken but still need more of this universe.
The writing style is absolutely breathtaking and addictive. The characters are wonderfully written and their development perfectly described.
Vivianora is one interesting and perfectly imperfect woman. I loved her.
Draelius was very interesting as well. I really enjoyed his character growth throughout the pages.
I truly cannot wait to read the future books in this series!
*I was gifted an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
The writing style is absolutely breathtaking and addictive. The characters are wonderfully written and their development perfectly described.
Vivianora is one interesting and perfectly imperfect woman. I loved her.
Draelius was very interesting as well. I really enjoyed his character growth throughout the pages.
I truly cannot wait to read the future books in this series!
*I was gifted an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
September 1, 2025
Immersed in the magical world...
In the world of Vivianora and Draelius. After a brutal rejection from the King, her father, Vivianore is taken to the dragon's lair. Expecting her death, she encounters an enemy who awakens all sorts of feelings within her, a journey of self-discovery where she is no longer a stranger. Breathtaking, heartwarming, and heartbreaking.
Dari enchants you with her words and draws you into the story, into the lives, emotions, and challenges of the characters.
Wow, I need a moment to recover...
In the world of Vivianora and Draelius. After a brutal rejection from the King, her father, Vivianore is taken to the dragon's lair. Expecting her death, she encounters an enemy who awakens all sorts of feelings within her, a journey of self-discovery where she is no longer a stranger. Breathtaking, heartwarming, and heartbreaking.
Dari enchants you with her words and draws you into the story, into the lives, emotions, and challenges of the characters.
Wow, I need a moment to recover...
August 10, 2025
Ashen Embrace is the third book in Dari A Malaunt’s Divine Destinies series, but can be read as a standalone. It is a dark fantasy romance about a fae princess and a dragon shifter.
I really loved the relationship between Vivianora and Draelius. They literally murder everyone who wronged them (reminding me of Mickey and Mallory from Oliver Stone’s Natural Born Killers), but they are completely devoted to each other, and unlike many dark romances, their relationship is totally respectful. They love each other, and despite Draelius claiming to be possessive, he really isn’t at all. From the start he treats Vivianora like an indivisual with her own needs and wants, and never like an object. They are completely balanced.
Like Mickey and Mallory in Natural Born Killers, Draelius and Vivianora get married overlooking the sea with no witnesses, showing that all they need is each other.
I loved the representation of painful periods, and how Draelius looks after Vivianora during this time, going so far as to buy her appropriate underwear. This is something that I have never encountered in fantasy before, and it was refreshing to read.
I also liked the way the story dealt with Fated Mates. I usually dislike this trope because it seems to focus on cis-het couples exclusively. But in this world, same-sex Fated Mates are possible, which again, was really refreshing. Two of the side characters are a sapphic Fated Mates couple.
The ending was very satisfying too. I love a villanous FMC but I also love it when she gets the ending she deserves. So, this was very well done.
As with the author’s other books, there is a LOT of spice, but it always happens during times where the plot slows down, so readers who are not into spice, can skim/skip these parts without missing any key plot points.
Overall, it is a very original take on the dark romance fantasy genre.
I really loved the relationship between Vivianora and Draelius. They literally murder everyone who wronged them (reminding me of Mickey and Mallory from Oliver Stone’s Natural Born Killers), but they are completely devoted to each other, and unlike many dark romances, their relationship is totally respectful. They love each other, and despite Draelius claiming to be possessive, he really isn’t at all. From the start he treats Vivianora like an indivisual with her own needs and wants, and never like an object. They are completely balanced.
Like Mickey and Mallory in Natural Born Killers, Draelius and Vivianora get married overlooking the sea with no witnesses, showing that all they need is each other.
I loved the representation of painful periods, and how Draelius looks after Vivianora during this time, going so far as to buy her appropriate underwear. This is something that I have never encountered in fantasy before, and it was refreshing to read.
I also liked the way the story dealt with Fated Mates. I usually dislike this trope because it seems to focus on cis-het couples exclusively. But in this world, same-sex Fated Mates are possible, which again, was really refreshing. Two of the side characters are a sapphic Fated Mates couple.
The ending was very satisfying too. I love a villanous FMC but I also love it when she gets the ending she deserves. So, this was very well done.
As with the author’s other books, there is a LOT of spice, but it always happens during times where the plot slows down, so readers who are not into spice, can skim/skip these parts without missing any key plot points.
Overall, it is a very original take on the dark romance fantasy genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
Fire, Blood, and a Love That Burns
“A fate sealed in fire. A love written in blood.”
Ashen Embrace is feral, fiery, and devastating. Princess Vivianora is meant to be nothing more than a sacrifice. Draelius, a dragon shifter cursed by centuries of solitude, is meant to be her executioner. But what grows between them is dangerous, intoxicating, and impossible to resist.
She refuses to bow, he refuses to be only a monster—and somewhere in the ruins of duty and vengeance, they find a bond neither of them should want. “You think our souls were made to always recognise each other?” Their chemistry is molten, their connection fated and cursed all at once. And when the truth breaks open, it’s searing. “We were one, now and forevermore.”
The ending left me in sobs, raw and gutted, yet clinging to the fire of what they built together. Dari warned us that her characters write their own endings—and this one tore me apart in the best way.
“A fate sealed in fire. A love written in blood.”
Ashen Embrace is feral, fiery, and devastating. Princess Vivianora is meant to be nothing more than a sacrifice. Draelius, a dragon shifter cursed by centuries of solitude, is meant to be her executioner. But what grows between them is dangerous, intoxicating, and impossible to resist.
She refuses to bow, he refuses to be only a monster—and somewhere in the ruins of duty and vengeance, they find a bond neither of them should want. “You think our souls were made to always recognise each other?” Their chemistry is molten, their connection fated and cursed all at once. And when the truth breaks open, it’s searing. “We were one, now and forevermore.”
The ending left me in sobs, raw and gutted, yet clinging to the fire of what they built together. Dari warned us that her characters write their own endings—and this one tore me apart in the best way.
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