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Emberquell Academy #3
Shadowborne: FANG
Shadowborne, the highly anticipated sequel duet to Flameborne, is a mythical realm romantasy series perfect for fans of Rebecca Yarros' Fourth Wing, and Sarah J. Maass's ACOTAR series. Dive into an immersive world of dragons, secret societies, and a broken woman fighting for triumph over her kingdom's enemies... and her past.
Secrets can save a kingdom—or destroy everything.
Bren is the first female to attain the coveted rank of Furyknight—the legendary society of men chosen and bonded by dragons, and trained for war. Desperate to hide that her Commanding Officer is also her mate, Bren throws herself into her new duties, only to discover that the Furyknights also hide secrets under their wings.
Donavyn introduces Bren to the Shadowfang. Unknown even to other Furyknights, the covert society’s training in stealth and espionage are Bren's refining fire. But, as her skill grows, so does Donavyn’s fear. To him, Bren is precious. To the King she’s becoming a dangerously expendable weapon.
Donavyn ensures she's trained mercilessly, while secretly craving vengeance on the men who hurt her before she was his, and hiding that darkness even from his dragon. But secrets need sunlight to heal.
As Bren fights to prove her worth as a spy, her past emerges to ignite a white-hot fire.
Those flames threaten to burn Donavyn—and every honorable intention he ever held—to ash.
Soar into a daring new saga from Aimee Lynn, the author of the Flameborne duet, where secrets lurk in every shadow, and a young woman must risk everything, to rise and claim her place and her love, against a kingdom that only ever expected her to fall.
Now a complete series! Final volume landing April 23, 2026. Whole series coming soon in romantasy audio (duet recording) from Simon Maverick!
Triggers and Tropes include: Romantasy with spice, dragons and dragon rider romance, fated mates, forbidden love, fantasy secret society romance, touch her and die, who did this to you, weak to strong female lead, age gap, and much, much more!
Secrets can save a kingdom—or destroy everything.
Bren is the first female to attain the coveted rank of Furyknight—the legendary society of men chosen and bonded by dragons, and trained for war. Desperate to hide that her Commanding Officer is also her mate, Bren throws herself into her new duties, only to discover that the Furyknights also hide secrets under their wings.
Donavyn introduces Bren to the Shadowfang. Unknown even to other Furyknights, the covert society’s training in stealth and espionage are Bren's refining fire. But, as her skill grows, so does Donavyn’s fear. To him, Bren is precious. To the King she’s becoming a dangerously expendable weapon.
Donavyn ensures she's trained mercilessly, while secretly craving vengeance on the men who hurt her before she was his, and hiding that darkness even from his dragon. But secrets need sunlight to heal.
As Bren fights to prove her worth as a spy, her past emerges to ignite a white-hot fire.
Those flames threaten to burn Donavyn—and every honorable intention he ever held—to ash.
Soar into a daring new saga from Aimee Lynn, the author of the Flameborne duet, where secrets lurk in every shadow, and a young woman must risk everything, to rise and claim her place and her love, against a kingdom that only ever expected her to fall.
Now a complete series! Final volume landing April 23, 2026. Whole series coming soon in romantasy audio (duet recording) from Simon Maverick!
Triggers and Tropes include: Romantasy with spice, dragons and dragon rider romance, fated mates, forbidden love, fantasy secret society romance, touch her and die, who did this to you, weak to strong female lead, age gap, and much, much more!
414 pages, ebook
Published March 19, 2026
1841 people are currently reading
1287 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Lynn
29 books4 followersAimee Lynn was born in Oregon and grew up in New Zealand. She dreamed of being a novelist from the age of seven, but as a Gen-Xer, was informed it wasn’t a realistic career. Instead, she went to college to be a journalist and (very realistically) never completed her degree. It wasn’t until her mid-thirties, after a marriage, a corporate career, and a family, that she rediscovered the joy she’d found in writing fiction. Now, she thanks God for giving her a husband whose love inspires romance, and who isn’t threatened by Jason Momoa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
September 19, 2025
welcome to my storytime
Okay I'm just gonna say it......
"Your favorite dragon riders heat up in the thrilling conclusion to the Emberquell Academy duet"
WHAT FUCKING CONCLUSION?!?!?!?!
Okay guys, I wasn't much of a fan of the first one, but I thought MAYBE the second one would be better, hoping that the plot would progress and we'd see some action. I liked the characters enough to see where they'd go in this DUET CONCLUSION (definitely NOT a conclusion) but I'm once again sorely disappointed.
Did we get plot progression? No. There was a little "ooooh this might actually be good" at the beginning regardless of all the "you must listen to gods plan" rhetoric. AND THEN ALL THEY DO IS FUCK FOR THE NEXT 60 PERCENT OF THE BOOK (I'm not lying I KEPT TRACK). Look I like smut. I read smut all the time. THIS WAS NOT NECESSARY. It was just the same "yes Donavyn" "oh God Donavyn YES YES" OVER AND OVER AND OVER. I'm not even being dramatic (I am actually but I'm not lying). It was literally just Donavyn and Bren, and their dragons (fucking in the distance, as per the dragon growls and screams) fucking in the woods saying how they just couldn't stop. Again and again. Not even good smut. Very vanilla. Repetitive.
And then after that? Not much happens. The book ends the exact way it started, except surprise (it's not a surprise if you read book 1) they're BONDED NOW, and can mind speak, and if you kill one they all die (dragons too) because their bond is just that strong. Donovyn makes all these plans with the king we don't see happen BECAUSE THE "CONCLUSION" WAS JUST THEM BEING BONDED. The war went absolutely no where. There wasn't a single fight scene FOR THESE STRONG FURYKNIGHTS IN THE MIDDLE OF A WAR.
We did get the full story of Bren's trauma, and that was about the only "good" part of this book. The only thing that added substance.
You're telling me I gotta read MORE to get any kind of plot? No thank you. No more "God is the creator and you must trust his plan for you" "If we weren't supposed to be together God wouldn't have made us a pair so we must do this" "This is part of God's plan, we must keep going" bleh. I said this in book one, if you want to give us religion. GIVE US RELIGION. There is no backstory. We all just have to know who God is, cause it's never explained WHO it IS or WHY they follow and mention God so much. It's just there. No rhyme or reason. No church. No biblical teachings. LITERALLY NOTHING. Just a reference to God the creator. Over and over and over.
K bye.
Okay I'm just gonna say it......
"Your favorite dragon riders heat up in the thrilling conclusion to the Emberquell Academy duet"
WHAT FUCKING CONCLUSION?!?!?!?!
Okay guys, I wasn't much of a fan of the first one, but I thought MAYBE the second one would be better, hoping that the plot would progress and we'd see some action. I liked the characters enough to see where they'd go in this DUET CONCLUSION (definitely NOT a conclusion) but I'm once again sorely disappointed.
Did we get plot progression? No. There was a little "ooooh this might actually be good" at the beginning regardless of all the "you must listen to gods plan" rhetoric. AND THEN ALL THEY DO IS FUCK FOR THE NEXT 60 PERCENT OF THE BOOK (I'm not lying I KEPT TRACK). Look I like smut. I read smut all the time. THIS WAS NOT NECESSARY. It was just the same "yes Donavyn" "oh God Donavyn YES YES" OVER AND OVER AND OVER. I'm not even being dramatic (I am actually but I'm not lying). It was literally just Donavyn and Bren, and their dragons (fucking in the distance, as per the dragon growls and screams) fucking in the woods saying how they just couldn't stop. Again and again. Not even good smut. Very vanilla. Repetitive.
And then after that? Not much happens. The book ends the exact way it started, except surprise (it's not a surprise if you read book 1) they're BONDED NOW, and can mind speak, and if you kill one they all die (dragons too) because their bond is just that strong. Donovyn makes all these plans with the king we don't see happen BECAUSE THE "CONCLUSION" WAS JUST THEM BEING BONDED. The war went absolutely no where. There wasn't a single fight scene FOR THESE STRONG FURYKNIGHTS IN THE MIDDLE OF A WAR.
We did get the full story of Bren's trauma, and that was about the only "good" part of this book. The only thing that added substance.
You're telling me I gotta read MORE to get any kind of plot? No thank you. No more "God is the creator and you must trust his plan for you" "If we weren't supposed to be together God wouldn't have made us a pair so we must do this" "This is part of God's plan, we must keep going" bleh. I said this in book one, if you want to give us religion. GIVE US RELIGION. There is no backstory. We all just have to know who God is, cause it's never explained WHO it IS or WHY they follow and mention God so much. It's just there. No rhyme or reason. No church. No biblical teachings. LITERALLY NOTHING. Just a reference to God the creator. Over and over and over.
K bye.
September 26, 2025
please don't tell me it's the "thrilling conclusion" of a "duet" when it clearly isn't.
I'd have rated 4 stars without the deception (inadvertent or not). Fix your blurbs, please.
I'd have rated 4 stars without the deception (inadvertent or not). Fix your blurbs, please.
September 23, 2025
first and foremost: why was this marketed as a duet but now it’s revealed it’s three duets? just say it’s a series?
this book felt like filler - gratuitous smut, cyclical and repetitive arguments, very little plot advancement beyond the “bonding” - which disappointed me. though i am glad the author is taking time to flesh out the series, which is something i was worried about after finishing book one, i didn’t actually see much substance in this book. the only thing that really developed was the (spoiler alert, except not really bc it was super obvious from book 1) “bonding” between the lead characters. and even the romance felt overshadowed by the constant smut/lust.
also, the religious element became almost overbearing. i have seen some critiques of the religious aspect in reviews of the previous book, but i had been able to appreciate - or at least overlook - it’s use (though, i do think it’s a bit on the nose to use “God” and “the Creator” the way it’s used in this series). however, this book it felt like every other piece of dialogue or thought referenced this god and their plan. and for how often we’re hearing about this god, the religion is not really explained or elaborated upon; do the people of this land routinely worship in churches/temples/shrines? it seems like some people have stronger faith than others (donavyn vs the queen), so is this god or faith not ubiquitously worshipped? is this god taking an active or passive role in destiny? how are the dragons related to this god and are there other sentient creatures that also worship the same creator? do the other kingdoms worship this god?
along that line of thought as well, the dragons felt like they were reduced to religious emissaries and/or wild beasts frenzied for mating season. the dragons were my favorite part of book 1 but their presence was heavily reduced in book 2 and half of what they were present for, they were freakin it dragon style in the background of their humans freakin it human style. akhane especially had barely any dialogue/wordcount. kgosi’s lines were just him quoting this vague, diaphanous god’s plan. rather disappointing.
will likely not be reading further, but 2/5 stars as this was easily consumable and entertaining enough to get me to finish the book. if i do somehow end up continuing this series, i would hope to see further world building, especially given the context of this impending war, and development of bren beyond her relationship with donavyn.
this book felt like filler - gratuitous smut, cyclical and repetitive arguments, very little plot advancement beyond the “bonding” - which disappointed me. though i am glad the author is taking time to flesh out the series, which is something i was worried about after finishing book one, i didn’t actually see much substance in this book. the only thing that really developed was the (spoiler alert, except not really bc it was super obvious from book 1) “bonding” between the lead characters. and even the romance felt overshadowed by the constant smut/lust.
also, the religious element became almost overbearing. i have seen some critiques of the religious aspect in reviews of the previous book, but i had been able to appreciate - or at least overlook - it’s use (though, i do think it’s a bit on the nose to use “God” and “the Creator” the way it’s used in this series). however, this book it felt like every other piece of dialogue or thought referenced this god and their plan. and for how often we’re hearing about this god, the religion is not really explained or elaborated upon; do the people of this land routinely worship in churches/temples/shrines? it seems like some people have stronger faith than others (donavyn vs the queen), so is this god or faith not ubiquitously worshipped? is this god taking an active or passive role in destiny? how are the dragons related to this god and are there other sentient creatures that also worship the same creator? do the other kingdoms worship this god?
along that line of thought as well, the dragons felt like they were reduced to religious emissaries and/or wild beasts frenzied for mating season. the dragons were my favorite part of book 1 but their presence was heavily reduced in book 2 and half of what they were present for, they were freakin it dragon style in the background of their humans freakin it human style. akhane especially had barely any dialogue/wordcount. kgosi’s lines were just him quoting this vague, diaphanous god’s plan. rather disappointing.
will likely not be reading further, but 2/5 stars as this was easily consumable and entertaining enough to get me to finish the book. if i do somehow end up continuing this series, i would hope to see further world building, especially given the context of this impending war, and development of bren beyond her relationship with donavyn.
March 25, 2026
5 ⭐️ this is BOOK 2 in the series (despite what it says on Goodreads). A great step forward in the story as the two MMCs go from strength to strength together. We finally find out what Bren’s been through and it’s heartbreaking. I absolutely adore Donovyn’s unwavering love of Bren, despite what happens in the last 25% of the book. I hope he rips Ruins asshole out and feeds his body to the pigs.
February 5, 2026
this was terrible and i would have DNF’d if not for my coworker who recommended it.
they fucked for 90% of it, there was absolutely no point to the story beyond the author needing a reason to share bren’s trauma. everything happened in the span of like a week and a half. nothing happened in this book at all.
this had such potential, but was squandered. also she needs a new editor because there were grammatical errors.
they fucked for 90% of it, there was absolutely no point to the story beyond the author needing a reason to share bren’s trauma. everything happened in the span of like a week and a half. nothing happened in this book at all.
this had such potential, but was squandered. also she needs a new editor because there were grammatical errors.
September 27, 2025
Not a conclusion.
there were so many things left open. this reads like a series with no answers. I was really hoping for that legally blond moment between Ruin and Bren (you go here?) but that doesnt happen. some great set up for the warriors but nothing happens with it. Just a lot of mating between the dragons and humans. the whole human mate bond thing was a little weird for me because thats been supernatural based before but I can deal with it. felt pointless with no resolution. less God stuff this time though.
there were so many things left open. this reads like a series with no answers. I was really hoping for that legally blond moment between Ruin and Bren (you go here?) but that doesnt happen. some great set up for the warriors but nothing happens with it. Just a lot of mating between the dragons and humans. the whole human mate bond thing was a little weird for me because thats been supernatural based before but I can deal with it. felt pointless with no resolution. less God stuff this time though.
October 7, 2025
I’d say 2.5 stars ⭐️⭐️
Idk majority of the book had no real plot. The ending does though so makes you want to know more… but I just found myself skipping pages because it was redundant. I still might be interested to find out what happens in the next book once it comes out. Maybe.
Quotes I liked:
“God, I hated people sometimes”
“He held me like I was precious”
“It felt like I never took a step forward without a new obstacle to face”
Idk majority of the book had no real plot. The ending does though so makes you want to know more… but I just found myself skipping pages because it was redundant. I still might be interested to find out what happens in the next book once it comes out. Maybe.
Quotes I liked:
“God, I hated people sometimes”
“He held me like I was precious”
“It felt like I never took a step forward without a new obstacle to face”
October 20, 2025
3.5/5
A duet ENDS it two books. This book did not. I enjoyed the book, but was pissed that the book didn’t end in a duet. Now there is going to be another duet following the same characters. Someone needs to tell the author what a duet is and what a series is. Ugh!!
A duet ENDS it two books. This book did not. I enjoyed the book, but was pissed that the book didn’t end in a duet. Now there is going to be another duet following the same characters. Someone needs to tell the author what a duet is and what a series is. Ugh!!
September 23, 2025
This second installment picks up right where the first left off, dropping us straight into the emotional tension between Donavyn and Bren without retreating into unnecessary delays. I appreciated that the relationship development wasn’t dragged out—there’s an immediacy to their bond that feels satisfying after the buildup of book one. The pacing surprised me as well; the narrative doesn’t always hit the “expected” milestones at predictable points, which kept me engaged. I also thought Bren’s backstory was handled in a way that added depth to her character, particularly how her past trauma influences her doubts about worthiness, love, and trust. Those layers made her responses to Donavyn’s care and restraint feel believable and human.
That said, the book struggles with balance in some areas. The constant back-and-forth of “we want each other but can’t have each other” sometimes overshadowed the more compelling aspects of the story. The worldbuilding also stumbles when it leans too heavily on vague references to religion and destiny without grounding them in a clear belief system—rather than enriching the fantasy setting, these elements felt muddled. Similarly, some exposition-heavy sections (especially around politics and history) slowed the momentum, where more organic dialogue or scenes might have been more engaging.
Overall, Flameborne: Fury is a solid continuation of Bren’s journey and does deliver emotional payoff, but its pacing quirks and uneven worldbuilding occasionally pulled me out of the story. I’m invested enough in the characters to see this series through, but I’m not sure I’d follow the author beyond it.
That said, the book struggles with balance in some areas. The constant back-and-forth of “we want each other but can’t have each other” sometimes overshadowed the more compelling aspects of the story. The worldbuilding also stumbles when it leans too heavily on vague references to religion and destiny without grounding them in a clear belief system—rather than enriching the fantasy setting, these elements felt muddled. Similarly, some exposition-heavy sections (especially around politics and history) slowed the momentum, where more organic dialogue or scenes might have been more engaging.
Overall, Flameborne: Fury is a solid continuation of Bren’s journey and does deliver emotional payoff, but its pacing quirks and uneven worldbuilding occasionally pulled me out of the story. I’m invested enough in the characters to see this series through, but I’m not sure I’d follow the author beyond it.
September 26, 2025
If you’re looking for a book that grabs you from the start and keeps you hooked until the very last page, then you have to read the second book in the series! It’s so much better than the first one because the story really grows and becomes more exciting. Some people might call it “Christian romantasy,” but honestly, it has some steamy scenes 🔥🔥 that would even surprise a priest!
The characters are more relatable, and the plot twists will keep you guessing. Trust me, once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down.
The characters are more relatable, and the plot twists will keep you guessing. Trust me, once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down.
October 3, 2025
This is not a duology
The storyline is good, if a bit slow. However, a duology does not end on a cliffhanger and then continue in a different duology. It is more appropriate to call this an incomplete series with a name change.
The sex did become a bit tedious but overall it is a good book. If you’re looking for a quick read with an ending that wraps up the plot and storyline, this isn’t it.
The storyline is good, if a bit slow. However, a duology does not end on a cliffhanger and then continue in a different duology. It is more appropriate to call this an incomplete series with a name change.
The sex did become a bit tedious but overall it is a good book. If you’re looking for a quick read with an ending that wraps up the plot and storyline, this isn’t it.
November 21, 2025
Loved this!! I honestly enjoyed all of the characters and was excited for the POV switches. My main issue really has nothing to do with the plot, and more with the world-building… why is Christianity randomly thrown in here? 😭 It really didn’t fit the plot and was very overdone. On one page I read the word God probably 15x 😬 I definitely could have done without the Sunday service vibes, but it is what it is! The ending was pretty abrupt, but apparently the story is split up in to duologies? strange but 🤷🏻♀️ I’ll probably read the next duo.
January 7, 2026
3.5 / 4 ⭐️
Trigger Warning: Graphic SA scene
I liked this book… just not as much as the first! More spice but also more filler… I missed the action and growth that were getting in book 1 between bonded pairs! We FINALLY got Brens whole back story (TW above) which brought us two steps forward but then whiny royals brought us two steps back. I’m hoping we get more actual ~ plot & action ~ for book #3!
My calendar is marked! 🗓️
Trigger Warning: Graphic SA scene
I liked this book… just not as much as the first! More spice but also more filler… I missed the action and growth that were getting in book 1 between bonded pairs! We FINALLY got Brens whole back story (TW above) which brought us two steps forward but then whiny royals brought us two steps back. I’m hoping we get more actual ~ plot & action ~ for book #3!
My calendar is marked! 🗓️
September 29, 2025
I loved the first one so I was excited to read the second. The mating bond was unexpected because the world-building in the first book didn't seem like it was a world where mating bonds for humans existed, but it wasn't a bad thing. I guessed at her trauma, so for it to be revealed was heavy but good. But to be honest...I skimmed probably 1/3 of the book. way too many sex scenes that were so focused on being different that I had to think about what position they were in or how they were doing things. The whole book lacked a lot of plot, I see where the author took time for the mating bond and working through her trauma, but I feel as though it could have been done in half the chapters it was.
September 30, 2025
I wouldn’t have called this a duet.
To me, a duet is a set of two books where you have a story and a clear conclusion to that “problem” that was presented in the first book. This was not that. While we have world building and movement toward figuring out an enemy, the majority of this book was spent having sex. I’m all for adding spicy scenes where it makes sense to further the relationship between the characters, but I don’t need it to be there as the only way they can feel like they are “together.”
Overall, I’m not sure I’ll continue as I just don’t know if I understand how this will work if new characters are introduced in the next duet.
To me, a duet is a set of two books where you have a story and a clear conclusion to that “problem” that was presented in the first book. This was not that. While we have world building and movement toward figuring out an enemy, the majority of this book was spent having sex. I’m all for adding spicy scenes where it makes sense to further the relationship between the characters, but I don’t need it to be there as the only way they can feel like they are “together.”
Overall, I’m not sure I’ll continue as I just don’t know if I understand how this will work if new characters are introduced in the next duet.
December 15, 2025
Warning: This book will make you an emotional mess.
It doesn’t end here. It isn’t strictly a duet but rather a series.
It doesn’t end here. It isn’t strictly a duet but rather a series.
February 14, 2026
Wow! its rare a second book in a series is a stand-out but this.. yes. yes
Aimee Lynn very quickly becoming a favourite Author of mine 🖤
ps spice 😍 yes!!!
Aimee Lynn very quickly becoming a favourite Author of mine 🖤
ps spice 😍 yes!!!
February 15, 2026
spice hit in this book! the fmc and mmc discover they are bonded like their dragons and it is all their ❤️story. can't wait for next book!🐉🔥🥰❤️🔥
September 19, 2025
5⭐️
Even better than the first, plus we finally get some 🔥.
I was a little disappointed because I thought it was a duet, but it's a set of 3 duets!?
Even better than the first, plus we finally get some 🔥.
I was a little disappointed because I thought it was a duet, but it's a set of 3 duets!?
January 21, 2026
Cliffhangers
These M’F’ing cliff hangers, urg!!
Where the first book was 95% story and 5% smut this book was 75% smut and 25% story. I’m not complaining but it was a bit unbalanced for me.
There are apparently 2 more books in the world so I guess I need to keep reading to find out if it levels off!
These M’F’ing cliff hangers, urg!!
Where the first book was 95% story and 5% smut this book was 75% smut and 25% story. I’m not complaining but it was a bit unbalanced for me.
There are apparently 2 more books in the world so I guess I need to keep reading to find out if it levels off!
November 25, 2025
I liked this one better - more deeper connection and character development. And more spice. A bit misleading that its a completed duology since the story isnt completed at all and now a new duology is being released - so not happy about that. not sure whether I'll continue with the series
February 9, 2026
Felt more adult than the first book and more action. Was not expecting the ending!
September 30, 2025
NOT a complete story (I’d give 0 stars if I could)
I’ve never written a review like this in my 200+.
Even though I had my problems with the first book, I decided to read this one purely out of curiosity. The author left so many unanswered questions and since this story was only a duet, I decided to finish the last book to get my answers.
Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Not because I didn’t finish the book, but because it didn’t contain a complete story.
I thought I’d misread the synopsis or mistakenly assumed that this was a duet when it was actually just an unfinished series that happened to have 2 books written so far. That’s happened to me before and is completely my mistake. But again, that wasn’t the case. This was labelled a completed duet—as stated by the author herself in below’s direct quote from this book’s description:
“Your favorite dragon riders heat up in the thrilling conclusion to the Emberquell Academy duet.”
I don’t know about you, but “thrilling conclusion” seems pretty definitive to me. Since this was marketed as a completed duet, one would assume that included a conclusion to the plot.
The argument could be made that the author was very clear that this was a series of duets. Which is true. At the end of both books, she included this disclaimer:
“Genre and Series The Emberquell Academy series is a set of three duets following the same couple, all romantasy book for adults / romantasy with spice.”
But again, nowhere does it state the duet’s individual plot wouldn’t reach a conclusion at the end of each set. (In fact, as seen in the previous quote, it says the complete opposite…but I digress).
As far as I can tell, the author was going for more of a ‘Part 1, Part 2, Part 3’ type of distinction with this series. The first part using its duets to tell the story of the main characters finding themselves and each other, and then continuing on to the next set of duets for ‘Part 2’ of the story arc. That would’ve worked a lot more than the misleading description the books have now.
It should be said that I’m no stranger to an interconnected series. In fact, it’s my preferred way to read—when different couples get their own story and their own HEA while also dealing with the overarching plot of the entire series. And if that interconnected series was about the same couple over and over but dealing with a different plot each time? One that concluded at the end of each book like episodes of a TV show, while the longstanding plot remained until the series finale? I love those too.
The problem here was the misleading descriptions the author provided on both books. If I’d known this was a series of interconnected duets (keyword: interconnected) where each set had their own story arc and the overarching plot continued between all 6 books—and thus didn’t reach a true conclusion until the very last book—I would have a different opinion. (Though even that would be misleading since this first duet doesn’t actually conclude in any way, but again, I digress).
As of now, going into this duet being told by the author it came to a “thrilling conclusion” and was followed up by 2 more adventurous duets featuring the same couple only to find out that wasn’t the case, the story stayed unfinished, and nothing is actually set in stone was frustrating beyond belief.
Let’s call it what it is: this is book 2 in a series of 6, each duet within representing a story arc that concludes at the end of the entire series. Most importantly, no individual book or set of books can be read as standalones. That would fix the problem since it clearly states that to enjoy books 1-2, books 3-6 must be read too.
Having said that, the fact the book ended where it did—in the middle of the MC’s relationship trails and the beginning of their recon mission for the mysterious war they’re supposedly fighting—made things even worse. Absolutely nothing was settled enough at the end for it to feel even remotely satisfying. Not the complications around the MC’s relationship that affects their jobs, their positions, the entire hierarchy of their society. Not the war (though, who are they fighting, anyway?) or the dragon hatch crisis. Even the plot lines around the FMC’s past trauma remained unfinished, though it was one of the biggest storylines of this duet.
The only way these books could be argued as concluded is through the MCs’ relationship. The end of the book saw them together—assumedly for good—but since the relationship is so complicated and affects almost every other plot point, it’s not concrete. It would technically be a happy-for-now ending since this duet exists as its own entity. That’s truly the only argument for this being a “completed” set. Even then, labelling the book as a finished duet because one plot line is somewhat settled is a stretch.
“But why are you complaining? You mentioned yourself that the author said this was a series of duets, so of course not everything is going to be settled!” Very true. If only she didn’t call this a conclusion to a story that is very much not concluded.
Honestly, I went back and forth on whether or not to even write this review since it’s entirely negative and so different from what I usually write. But I came to the conclusion (no pun intended) that if the author could tell readers her story was finished when it was very much NOT, I could share my opinion in a respectful way so others could avoid wasting their time like I did.
I’ve never written a review like this in my 200+.
Even though I had my problems with the first book, I decided to read this one purely out of curiosity. The author left so many unanswered questions and since this story was only a duet, I decided to finish the last book to get my answers.
Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Not because I didn’t finish the book, but because it didn’t contain a complete story.
I thought I’d misread the synopsis or mistakenly assumed that this was a duet when it was actually just an unfinished series that happened to have 2 books written so far. That’s happened to me before and is completely my mistake. But again, that wasn’t the case. This was labelled a completed duet—as stated by the author herself in below’s direct quote from this book’s description:
“Your favorite dragon riders heat up in the thrilling conclusion to the Emberquell Academy duet.”
I don’t know about you, but “thrilling conclusion” seems pretty definitive to me. Since this was marketed as a completed duet, one would assume that included a conclusion to the plot.
The argument could be made that the author was very clear that this was a series of duets. Which is true. At the end of both books, she included this disclaimer:
“Genre and Series The Emberquell Academy series is a set of three duets following the same couple, all romantasy book for adults / romantasy with spice.”
But again, nowhere does it state the duet’s individual plot wouldn’t reach a conclusion at the end of each set. (In fact, as seen in the previous quote, it says the complete opposite…but I digress).
As far as I can tell, the author was going for more of a ‘Part 1, Part 2, Part 3’ type of distinction with this series. The first part using its duets to tell the story of the main characters finding themselves and each other, and then continuing on to the next set of duets for ‘Part 2’ of the story arc. That would’ve worked a lot more than the misleading description the books have now.
It should be said that I’m no stranger to an interconnected series. In fact, it’s my preferred way to read—when different couples get their own story and their own HEA while also dealing with the overarching plot of the entire series. And if that interconnected series was about the same couple over and over but dealing with a different plot each time? One that concluded at the end of each book like episodes of a TV show, while the longstanding plot remained until the series finale? I love those too.
The problem here was the misleading descriptions the author provided on both books. If I’d known this was a series of interconnected duets (keyword: interconnected) where each set had their own story arc and the overarching plot continued between all 6 books—and thus didn’t reach a true conclusion until the very last book—I would have a different opinion. (Though even that would be misleading since this first duet doesn’t actually conclude in any way, but again, I digress).
As of now, going into this duet being told by the author it came to a “thrilling conclusion” and was followed up by 2 more adventurous duets featuring the same couple only to find out that wasn’t the case, the story stayed unfinished, and nothing is actually set in stone was frustrating beyond belief.
Let’s call it what it is: this is book 2 in a series of 6, each duet within representing a story arc that concludes at the end of the entire series. Most importantly, no individual book or set of books can be read as standalones. That would fix the problem since it clearly states that to enjoy books 1-2, books 3-6 must be read too.
Having said that, the fact the book ended where it did—in the middle of the MC’s relationship trails and the beginning of their recon mission for the mysterious war they’re supposedly fighting—made things even worse. Absolutely nothing was settled enough at the end for it to feel even remotely satisfying. Not the complications around the MC’s relationship that affects their jobs, their positions, the entire hierarchy of their society. Not the war (though, who are they fighting, anyway?) or the dragon hatch crisis. Even the plot lines around the FMC’s past trauma remained unfinished, though it was one of the biggest storylines of this duet.
The only way these books could be argued as concluded is through the MCs’ relationship. The end of the book saw them together—assumedly for good—but since the relationship is so complicated and affects almost every other plot point, it’s not concrete. It would technically be a happy-for-now ending since this duet exists as its own entity. That’s truly the only argument for this being a “completed” set. Even then, labelling the book as a finished duet because one plot line is somewhat settled is a stretch.
“But why are you complaining? You mentioned yourself that the author said this was a series of duets, so of course not everything is going to be settled!” Very true. If only she didn’t call this a conclusion to a story that is very much not concluded.
Honestly, I went back and forth on whether or not to even write this review since it’s entirely negative and so different from what I usually write. But I came to the conclusion (no pun intended) that if the author could tell readers her story was finished when it was very much NOT, I could share my opinion in a respectful way so others could avoid wasting their time like I did.
March 25, 2026
more spice. maybe a bit too much from 30% to 50% then went into lots of details about the plan. yet, never got to the plan bc more emotions/her story and the book ends. yes their love continues. but does he actually get his revenge? so I guess another book is coming yet it's a different series?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2026
‘But what, my dear Donavyn, if God gave you to her?’ I was stunned. But Kgosi wasn’t done. ‘And what if you needed to enter the dark not for your own selfish pleasure but, to save her from it?’
My BIGGEST gripe with this book, and drops it a FULL star for me is that this is marketed as the “conclusion to a duet” when it is not that. I am not sure why author chose to do her series this way. But at the end of this book she introduces what will be the next “duet” in this series. I personally find this confusing, why not just call it a series? If the next duet were to follow different characters, I would get it. But no the next ‘duet’ is still going to follow Donavyn and Bren. Who knows maybe I’ll adjust my review after reading the next books but right now I’m stewing in frustration.
Second gripe: we went from a singular kiss in book 1, to a significant portion of this book being sex. So significant I fear it takes away from the plot progression introduced in book 1.
Book 2 in the Emberquell Academy series opens with alluding to the fated mates to come. Donayvn, drunk after celebrating Bren’s second trial, is inexplicably drawn to her. Before the oh so predictable “what of my responsibilities!!!” realization and pushes her away. Subsequently, the ever wise dragon counter part Kgosi starts to drop hints of a potential fated mate bond.
Bren on the other hand is focused on preparing for her in coming third trial (and over thinking the relationship with Donavyn).
Cut to Bren getting her ‘third trial’ assignment (which is a set up). She is sent to scout out an enemy camp in the North and does a great job! Little did she know it was a set up. She’s not in any danger! But she did in fact find an enemy camp.
Meanwhile back at the hall of justice; Kgosi decides that eluding is no longer good enough and explains that Akhane is his mate and Bren is Donavyn’s. They hunt them down as Akhane goes into heat. Then looooooooonnnnnnngggggg hanky panky montage. Donavyn reveals that the ‘trial’ was a hoax, Bren reveals she actually found an enemy. So now it’s danger and they must go back! (But also stop to bang on the way).
Read for yourself to get the details but more hanky panky. A threat from the Queen. A mental breakdown. More hanky panky. A threat from the King. Then book over!
Yeah so nothing is resolved. Like at all. Other than they’re mates and this is in fact an adult novel. Who’s the danger? What’s going to happen with Donavyn’s anger? The weird alluding to Bren’s special status?
STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT SET OF DUETS IN THE SERIES.
3.5. Angrily rounded up.
My BIGGEST gripe with this book, and drops it a FULL star for me is that this is marketed as the “conclusion to a duet” when it is not that. I am not sure why author chose to do her series this way. But at the end of this book she introduces what will be the next “duet” in this series. I personally find this confusing, why not just call it a series? If the next duet were to follow different characters, I would get it. But no the next ‘duet’ is still going to follow Donavyn and Bren. Who knows maybe I’ll adjust my review after reading the next books but right now I’m stewing in frustration.
Second gripe: we went from a singular kiss in book 1, to a significant portion of this book being sex. So significant I fear it takes away from the plot progression introduced in book 1.
Book 2 in the Emberquell Academy series opens with alluding to the fated mates to come. Donayvn, drunk after celebrating Bren’s second trial, is inexplicably drawn to her. Before the oh so predictable “what of my responsibilities!!!” realization and pushes her away. Subsequently, the ever wise dragon counter part Kgosi starts to drop hints of a potential fated mate bond.
Bren on the other hand is focused on preparing for her in coming third trial (and over thinking the relationship with Donavyn).
Cut to Bren getting her ‘third trial’ assignment (which is a set up). She is sent to scout out an enemy camp in the North and does a great job! Little did she know it was a set up. She’s not in any danger! But she did in fact find an enemy camp.
Meanwhile back at the hall of justice; Kgosi decides that eluding is no longer good enough and explains that Akhane is his mate and Bren is Donavyn’s. They hunt them down as Akhane goes into heat. Then looooooooonnnnnnngggggg hanky panky montage. Donavyn reveals that the ‘trial’ was a hoax, Bren reveals she actually found an enemy. So now it’s danger and they must go back! (But also stop to bang on the way).
Read for yourself to get the details but more hanky panky. A threat from the Queen. A mental breakdown. More hanky panky. A threat from the King. Then book over!
Yeah so nothing is resolved. Like at all. Other than they’re mates and this is in fact an adult novel. Who’s the danger? What’s going to happen with Donavyn’s anger? The weird alluding to Bren’s special status?
STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT SET OF DUETS IN THE SERIES.
3.5. Angrily rounded up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
THIS IS NOT A DUET AND ENDS ON A CLIFFHANGER.
The author declares this is like ACOTAR and the Empyrean series. Not remotely close. I’m very disappointed at the start of the book. It’s 200 pages constant repetition of the same fears and doubts from our FMC in the first book with 90 pages of sex, fear and doubt on repeat over and over again. NINETY PAGES!!! What was worse is after 90 pages her fear and doubt on repeat, finally infiltrated the MMC. I was so close to DNFing the book. Thankfully it starts to get interesting after the first 200 pages but that doesn’t last long. The book could’ve addressed the fear built-up from book one at the beginning and then expanded and pull the characters into the rich development to finish strong. Instead, the entire book revolves around more of the fear and doubt until the very end. It feels unfinished. Not to mention the constant internal monologue and the dialogue is stunted. Why even have the other plot lines if we’re not going to finish them? The author doesn’t finish a thought at times. Donavyn said, three things happened once, first… and then there was no second or third. Then with the king in the last chapter, Donavyn says two points, first…and then there’s no second point.
I’m frustrated that we didn’t get answers on certain things. It was Ekko that called her Little Flame while in the tree at the launch before she met with Ruin or Chosen by Akhane. How did Ekko recognize her as Little Flame? When she landed and the harness was wet, and she went to get a stable boy to help and all hell broke loose, no one ever went to retrieve the harness. It’s the little things.
When Donavyn and Kgosi found them, Donyvan abandon the harness to the storm and didn’t go back for it to dry it out. It’s the little thing. It’s disappointing that Bren didn’t get to confront Ruin.
I also wonder if the author has some type of relationship with Tommee Proffit. All the recommended songs are by that artist.
This “Duet” ended on a cliffhanger. NOT A DUET!!!
The author declares this is like ACOTAR and the Empyrean series. Not remotely close. I’m very disappointed at the start of the book. It’s 200 pages constant repetition of the same fears and doubts from our FMC in the first book with 90 pages of sex, fear and doubt on repeat over and over again. NINETY PAGES!!! What was worse is after 90 pages her fear and doubt on repeat, finally infiltrated the MMC. I was so close to DNFing the book. Thankfully it starts to get interesting after the first 200 pages but that doesn’t last long. The book could’ve addressed the fear built-up from book one at the beginning and then expanded and pull the characters into the rich development to finish strong. Instead, the entire book revolves around more of the fear and doubt until the very end. It feels unfinished. Not to mention the constant internal monologue and the dialogue is stunted. Why even have the other plot lines if we’re not going to finish them? The author doesn’t finish a thought at times. Donavyn said, three things happened once, first… and then there was no second or third. Then with the king in the last chapter, Donavyn says two points, first…and then there’s no second point.
I’m frustrated that we didn’t get answers on certain things. It was Ekko that called her Little Flame while in the tree at the launch before she met with Ruin or Chosen by Akhane. How did Ekko recognize her as Little Flame? When she landed and the harness was wet, and she went to get a stable boy to help and all hell broke loose, no one ever went to retrieve the harness. It’s the little things.
When Donavyn and Kgosi found them, Donyvan abandon the harness to the storm and didn’t go back for it to dry it out. It’s the little thing. It’s disappointing that Bren didn’t get to confront Ruin.
I also wonder if the author has some type of relationship with Tommee Proffit. All the recommended songs are by that artist.
This “Duet” ended on a cliffhanger. NOT A DUET!!!
December 29, 2025
FYI this review is solely for myself when I look back on recs. Contains spoilers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
So this book was nothing like the last one. It was like 75% spice. Whew. 😮💨 very hot, but lacked the plot the last book had. I liked that more.
In the beginning FMC Bren receives an order to do her final task which is a mission. Her mission states to find the enemies at the border. Collect intel. And report back. After she flies with her dragon Ahkane out to complete said mission MMC and commander Donovyn realizes she's been sent on a false mission because he was to be delivering her task himself. Bren discovers true enemies and collect real intel all under the rouse of believing it's a fake and her final mission.
Donovyn and his dragon Kgosi fly out to find them when Kgosi goes wild and reveals Ahkane is his mate and Bren is Donovyns.
When Donovyn realizes what Bren found while out on her mission he reports back to the king only to realize HE is the one who sent her on the fake mission believing even if she was found it was no loss to the army.
The rest of the book is pretty much them solidifying the bond and f*cking. Like a lot. A lot. At one point Bren severs their bond in a panic because the queen, who always wanted to sleep with Donovyn, tells Bren in a jealous rage after being rejected that he's hers and will always come back to her after her newness wares off and he gets bored. In order to fix the bond she has to come clean and be completely open about why she panicked. She admits her ex bf (Ruin) and a few of his dragon rider friends raped her and used her love for Ruin to manipulate her. She conceals all their identities in an effort to make sure Donovyn doesn't retaliate and get punished but accidentally let slip the name one of the dragons call Ruin, so he knows who it is and is privately planning revenge/murder.
The book is pretty much them solidifying and fixing the bond and f*cking. Like a lot. A lot.
Book ends with him telling the king they're mates and getting ready to take off to scout the enemies she found in her mission.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
So this book was nothing like the last one. It was like 75% spice. Whew. 😮💨 very hot, but lacked the plot the last book had. I liked that more.
In the beginning FMC Bren receives an order to do her final task which is a mission. Her mission states to find the enemies at the border. Collect intel. And report back. After she flies with her dragon Ahkane out to complete said mission MMC and commander Donovyn realizes she's been sent on a false mission because he was to be delivering her task himself. Bren discovers true enemies and collect real intel all under the rouse of believing it's a fake and her final mission.
Donovyn and his dragon Kgosi fly out to find them when Kgosi goes wild and reveals Ahkane is his mate and Bren is Donovyns.
When Donovyn realizes what Bren found while out on her mission he reports back to the king only to realize HE is the one who sent her on the fake mission believing even if she was found it was no loss to the army.
The rest of the book is pretty much them solidifying the bond and f*cking. Like a lot. A lot. At one point Bren severs their bond in a panic because the queen, who always wanted to sleep with Donovyn, tells Bren in a jealous rage after being rejected that he's hers and will always come back to her after her newness wares off and he gets bored. In order to fix the bond she has to come clean and be completely open about why she panicked. She admits her ex bf (Ruin) and a few of his dragon rider friends raped her and used her love for Ruin to manipulate her. She conceals all their identities in an effort to make sure Donovyn doesn't retaliate and get punished but accidentally let slip the name one of the dragons call Ruin, so he knows who it is and is privately planning revenge/murder.
The book is pretty much them solidifying and fixing the bond and f*cking. Like a lot. A lot.
Book ends with him telling the king they're mates and getting ready to take off to scout the enemies she found in her mission.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2025
Bren and Donavyn’s saga continues, but it’s not finished in this book.
***spoilers***
Bren continues in her journey to become a Furyknight and encounters more resistance from herself than she could have anticipated. Her trauma, details of which are finally revealed, could ruin her happiness and kill her.
I really like the premise of this story, and it finally starts having more action than just her internal conflict about 80% through. That’s where I really got into the story. Now, as far as the claims that this is as good as Fourth Wing or ACOTAR… not so much. I very much want the author to grow in her writing as I can see promise. However, more work on world building, foreshadowing, and proofreading would help elevate this story.
I have highlighted areas that either need correction due to grammar or spelling as well as left commentary on areas I found frustrating. It’s clear from the author’s acknowledgments at the end of the books that she’s a very religious Christian. This carries through in her work, which could be an asset, but there is no context to the constant “creators will” and “God’s plan” from Donavyn and Kgori ( I think I spelled this name correctly). They are pretty much the only ones who invoke a higher power
We as readers don’t know what religion they practice as it’s not defined. The reader is just stuck assuming it’s Christianity. And, just like most religions, people in power don’t really believe, and the common folk just don’t really care or use it to manipulate. With the exception of Donavyn who has his dragon to keep him on track. But what of the other dragon riders? We have zero idea if their dragons do the same. Especially as most of the Furyknights don’t believe that Bren should follow the path her dragon chose, which tells the reader that there is very little actual respect for the dragons.
Overall, I will read the next books as they come out and look forward to the authors progress as a writer.
***spoilers***
Bren continues in her journey to become a Furyknight and encounters more resistance from herself than she could have anticipated. Her trauma, details of which are finally revealed, could ruin her happiness and kill her.
I really like the premise of this story, and it finally starts having more action than just her internal conflict about 80% through. That’s where I really got into the story. Now, as far as the claims that this is as good as Fourth Wing or ACOTAR… not so much. I very much want the author to grow in her writing as I can see promise. However, more work on world building, foreshadowing, and proofreading would help elevate this story.
I have highlighted areas that either need correction due to grammar or spelling as well as left commentary on areas I found frustrating. It’s clear from the author’s acknowledgments at the end of the books that she’s a very religious Christian. This carries through in her work, which could be an asset, but there is no context to the constant “creators will” and “God’s plan” from Donavyn and Kgori ( I think I spelled this name correctly). They are pretty much the only ones who invoke a higher power
We as readers don’t know what religion they practice as it’s not defined. The reader is just stuck assuming it’s Christianity. And, just like most religions, people in power don’t really believe, and the common folk just don’t really care or use it to manipulate. With the exception of Donavyn who has his dragon to keep him on track. But what of the other dragon riders? We have zero idea if their dragons do the same. Especially as most of the Furyknights don’t believe that Bren should follow the path her dragon chose, which tells the reader that there is very little actual respect for the dragons.
Overall, I will read the next books as they come out and look forward to the authors progress as a writer.
February 21, 2026
Brreeeeenn babygirl had me SICK. That torment? That trauma? The way she’s clawing her way out of literal emotional hell? I felt that in my chest. The knot in the throat. The “blink fast so the tears don’t fall” type pain. She’s not just surviving — she’s rising, and it’s powerful to witness.
Bren isn’t just battling external demons — she’s fighting the war inside herself. The doubt. The shame. The “am I too broken?” whispers that creep in when she’s alone. And watching her slowly let Donavyn see those cracks? That’s intimacy before we even get to the heat.
And DONAVYN?!?!?!
Where. Do. We. Apply.
The way that man absorbs her pain without flinching. The way he moves with purpose. The quiet intensity. The vengeance simmering just beneath the surface for anyone who dared to hurt her? OBSESSED. He’s not just protective — he’s calculated. He’s patient. He’s “I’ll burn the world down but make it look like an accident” energy and I am here for every single second of it.
And the SPICE?!?!?!
Ma’am.
It’s the way he worships her strength and her softness at the same time. The way his touch says, “You are not damaged. You are mine, and you are powerful.” The tension isn’t chaotic — it’s charged. It’s that slow-burn heat that builds until it’s unbearable and then explodes in the most consuming way.
When I tell you the tension was tensioning and then it just IGNITED? The build-up, the heat, the way he touches her like she’s both fragile and his entire universe? Yeah… ovaries did not survive. Flames were not just fanned — they were set ablaze. 🥵
I absolutely lost sleep over this book and honestly - Worth it.
Locked in. Chokehold. Strangled. And voluntarily handing over the oxygen mask for more. 😌🔥
I am not emotionally prepared for what’s coming next …. Because baaabbbyyy the way I’m thinking this is going to to unfold I’m just not ready - We are NOT ready - the anticipation is killing me!
Bren isn’t just battling external demons — she’s fighting the war inside herself. The doubt. The shame. The “am I too broken?” whispers that creep in when she’s alone. And watching her slowly let Donavyn see those cracks? That’s intimacy before we even get to the heat.
And DONAVYN?!?!?!
Where. Do. We. Apply.
The way that man absorbs her pain without flinching. The way he moves with purpose. The quiet intensity. The vengeance simmering just beneath the surface for anyone who dared to hurt her? OBSESSED. He’s not just protective — he’s calculated. He’s patient. He’s “I’ll burn the world down but make it look like an accident” energy and I am here for every single second of it.
And the SPICE?!?!?!
Ma’am.
It’s the way he worships her strength and her softness at the same time. The way his touch says, “You are not damaged. You are mine, and you are powerful.” The tension isn’t chaotic — it’s charged. It’s that slow-burn heat that builds until it’s unbearable and then explodes in the most consuming way.
When I tell you the tension was tensioning and then it just IGNITED? The build-up, the heat, the way he touches her like she’s both fragile and his entire universe? Yeah… ovaries did not survive. Flames were not just fanned — they were set ablaze. 🥵
I absolutely lost sleep over this book and honestly - Worth it.
Locked in. Chokehold. Strangled. And voluntarily handing over the oxygen mask for more. 😌🔥
I am not emotionally prepared for what’s coming next …. Because baaabbbyyy the way I’m thinking this is going to to unfold I’m just not ready - We are NOT ready - the anticipation is killing me!
November 11, 2025
Hmmmm mixed feelings on this one,
Bren and Donayvan get it on in this book and forge their mate bond, but whilst there was no spice in book 1 the author has more than made up for it in book 2, and too much in my view. They are at it like rabbits and while I'm no prude and appreciate a good sex scene as much as the next person I dont want it to consume, overshadow, or dominate at the expense of action or plot.
It really felt like not much hapened in this book except bonking. There wasnt much interaction between Bren and her squadron, or training or Bren's development as a Furyknight, which was disappointing. These sort of books about trainee warriors/ magic users rely on seeing the character grow and improve their skills. And that didnt happen here. It was far too focused on Bren and Donayvan's sex life. I got bored of the endless how's your father.
And although there was mention of possible betrayal within the ranks and what happened to Bren that caused her trauma all it did was set up the next duet of books. This one had no resolution, it kinda just petered out, it felt like the author was more concerned about setting up the next books rather than giving us a satisfactory ending to this one.
I'm still not a fan of the age gap between Donayvan and Bren, he's far too old for her. I know historically age gaps happened all the time, many an much older man has married a nubile young woman but it has become less socially acceptable and now seems uncomfortable and icky, an uneven power exchange. I like him as a MMC but not as a romantic lead, he's better suited as a mentor.
All in all I liked this less than book 1, not crazy about the religious overtones either. I feel like this was mostly filler, sex and not much else.
Bren and Donayvan get it on in this book and forge their mate bond, but whilst there was no spice in book 1 the author has more than made up for it in book 2, and too much in my view. They are at it like rabbits and while I'm no prude and appreciate a good sex scene as much as the next person I dont want it to consume, overshadow, or dominate at the expense of action or plot.
It really felt like not much hapened in this book except bonking. There wasnt much interaction between Bren and her squadron, or training or Bren's development as a Furyknight, which was disappointing. These sort of books about trainee warriors/ magic users rely on seeing the character grow and improve their skills. And that didnt happen here. It was far too focused on Bren and Donayvan's sex life. I got bored of the endless how's your father.
And although there was mention of possible betrayal within the ranks and what happened to Bren that caused her trauma all it did was set up the next duet of books. This one had no resolution, it kinda just petered out, it felt like the author was more concerned about setting up the next books rather than giving us a satisfactory ending to this one.
I'm still not a fan of the age gap between Donayvan and Bren, he's far too old for her. I know historically age gaps happened all the time, many an much older man has married a nubile young woman but it has become less socially acceptable and now seems uncomfortable and icky, an uneven power exchange. I like him as a MMC but not as a romantic lead, he's better suited as a mentor.
All in all I liked this less than book 1, not crazy about the religious overtones either. I feel like this was mostly filler, sex and not much else.
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