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Dragon Riders of Vorden #1
Black Dragon Rising
Outcast. Healer. The girl they shunned may be the kingdom’s best hope.
Kanastya Herbanya has always been an outcast. With her pointed ears and slight build, she stands out as different.
Orphaned young and raised by her grandmother on the edge of the swamp. Kanastya lives quietly on the fringes healing wounds, gathering herbs… and guarding a deadly secret. She knows dragon lore, and in the four kingdoms, secrets like hers could mean death.
For generations, the Sundered lands have known peace, but now war is brewing. Rogue dragons have returned and are attacking the four kingdoms with relentless fury. The kings of Vorden need dragons, but to raise them quickly requires blood and sacrifice.
Kanastya is chosen as one of those sacrifices.
Torn from her home and thrust into a brutal selection meant for nobles, she finds herself among strangers who see her as a threat or a tool.
As danger mounts and alliances shift, Kanastya must decide whether to remain the outcast they expect—or become something far more powerful than anyone is prepared for.
Kanastya Herbanya has always been an outcast. With her pointed ears and slight build, she stands out as different.
Orphaned young and raised by her grandmother on the edge of the swamp. Kanastya lives quietly on the fringes healing wounds, gathering herbs… and guarding a deadly secret. She knows dragon lore, and in the four kingdoms, secrets like hers could mean death.
For generations, the Sundered lands have known peace, but now war is brewing. Rogue dragons have returned and are attacking the four kingdoms with relentless fury. The kings of Vorden need dragons, but to raise them quickly requires blood and sacrifice.
Kanastya is chosen as one of those sacrifices.
Torn from her home and thrust into a brutal selection meant for nobles, she finds herself among strangers who see her as a threat or a tool.
As danger mounts and alliances shift, Kanastya must decide whether to remain the outcast they expect—or become something far more powerful than anyone is prepared for.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2025
584 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
About the author
Nita Round
28 books85 followersNita Round is a British author who creates vibrant and unique new worlds as quirky as she is. She takes inspiration from her studies of history and blends together ‘what was’ and creates fantastical worlds, ‘what could be’.
Monsters, heroines, magic, and the strange are all woven into tales of hope and courage. Where women battle evil, something with nothing more than a stout heart, and no matter the odds, ultimately prevail.
If you want to know more about new books, then subscribe to Nita's reader's list. Free short story Dark Mission available via website, and exclusive to newsletter.
https://www.nitaround.com
Monsters, heroines, magic, and the strange are all woven into tales of hope and courage. Where women battle evil, something with nothing more than a stout heart, and no matter the odds, ultimately prevail.
If you want to know more about new books, then subscribe to Nita's reader's list. Free short story Dark Mission available via website, and exclusive to newsletter.
https://www.nitaround.com
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 19, 2025
DNF 62%
It's a good read, just not to my taste.
I have nothing against FF and MM but I don't want to read about it as the core plot. It does nothing for me.
As I was reading I kept thinking hang on a minute. Had to look at the reviews for book 2 for it to be confirmed. I just wish the blurb pointed it out. I like some romance splattered with my adventure, this missed that mark, for me.
Till the point I stopped reading I enjoyed the different take on dragons and dragon lore. It was different and immersive. Normally bonding with the supernatural gives a longer life, not the other way round. That gave this book an edge.
If you're not iffy like me, give this a try.
It's a good read, just not to my taste.
I have nothing against FF and MM but I don't want to read about it as the core plot. It does nothing for me.
As I was reading I kept thinking hang on a minute. Had to look at the reviews for book 2 for it to be confirmed. I just wish the blurb pointed it out. I like some romance splattered with my adventure, this missed that mark, for me.
Till the point I stopped reading I enjoyed the different take on dragons and dragon lore. It was different and immersive. Normally bonding with the supernatural gives a longer life, not the other way round. That gave this book an edge.
If you're not iffy like me, give this a try.
August 29, 2025
I finished this book a week ago… and I still can’t stop thinking about it.
Even though I’ve already picked up another book (and I'm halfway through it), my mind keeps drifting back to Black Dragon Rising. I need to know what happens next. That’s how deeply this story has sunk its claws into me.
I’ve read a lot of dragon books—probably more than I’d like to admit—but this one stands out in all the best ways. It’s got that classic dragon-fantasy pull, yet it feels fresh and different enough to keep things exciting. The world-building is rich, the lore is compelling, and the pacing keeps you on your toes.
The characters? Absolutely captivating. They’re complex, dynamic, and best of all—they feel real. The main character is strong without being overbearing, gritty but still vulnerable, which makes her incredibly relatable. She’s not one of those flat, stereotypical heroines you find too often in the genre—she's got layers, and I love that.
And let’s talk about Aeshin. I’m thrilled the author isn’t just spotlighting Kanastya’s arc, but giving Aeshin her time to shine as well. There’s something so satisfying about watching multiple women come into their power in meaningful, badass ways.
If you haven’t picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for? I have a feeling this is going to be a breakout series—one of those stories that sticks with you long after the last page.
Grab your copy of Black Dragon Rising now. You won’t regret it.
Even though I’ve already picked up another book (and I'm halfway through it), my mind keeps drifting back to Black Dragon Rising. I need to know what happens next. That’s how deeply this story has sunk its claws into me.
I’ve read a lot of dragon books—probably more than I’d like to admit—but this one stands out in all the best ways. It’s got that classic dragon-fantasy pull, yet it feels fresh and different enough to keep things exciting. The world-building is rich, the lore is compelling, and the pacing keeps you on your toes.
The characters? Absolutely captivating. They’re complex, dynamic, and best of all—they feel real. The main character is strong without being overbearing, gritty but still vulnerable, which makes her incredibly relatable. She’s not one of those flat, stereotypical heroines you find too often in the genre—she's got layers, and I love that.
And let’s talk about Aeshin. I’m thrilled the author isn’t just spotlighting Kanastya’s arc, but giving Aeshin her time to shine as well. There’s something so satisfying about watching multiple women come into their power in meaningful, badass ways.
If you haven’t picked this one up yet, what are you waiting for? I have a feeling this is going to be a breakout series—one of those stories that sticks with you long after the last page.
Grab your copy of Black Dragon Rising now. You won’t regret it.
August 19, 2025
I admit that I’m a fan of Nita Round’s books, but it feels like she kicked it up a notch in this initial book in a new series and a new world. Once again she shows her mastery of world-building, creating a world with depth and complexity and yet drawing the reader into it in a way that feels organic, with a gradual introduction to each new aspect of the world that nevertheless feels so natural and integral. Each piece of information comes as a revelation that creates a dichotomous feeling of surprise and yet also feels like an expected inclusion.
This story drew me in almost immediately and then it refused to let me go. Even now that I’ve finished, I can’t help thinking about what happened and what might happen next. The best kind of story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
This story drew me in almost immediately and then it refused to let me go. Even now that I’ve finished, I can’t help thinking about what happened and what might happen next. The best kind of story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
November 12, 2025
started well… huge lulls…ended ok
There were so many good elements in this book, it just became frustrating when entire scenes were about all the inconsequential details and not the people, relationships, personalities , and convo. Also the tracking of every minute of one day and then skipping weeks to move to the next scene. If you can endure I would say there was a consistency of facts that kept you interested enough to keep going. I’m debating trying book 2…
There were so many good elements in this book, it just became frustrating when entire scenes were about all the inconsequential details and not the people, relationships, personalities , and convo. Also the tracking of every minute of one day and then skipping weeks to move to the next scene. If you can endure I would say there was a consistency of facts that kept you interested enough to keep going. I’m debating trying book 2…
August 4, 2025
Full of Dragons
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. The world building in this book is amazing. There are a lot of interesting characters and I can’t wait to see how they grow and develop
I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. The world building in this book is amazing. There are a lot of interesting characters and I can’t wait to see how they grow and develop
December 6, 2025
I liked the overall story well enough, I ship them too, I don’t know if it will be platonic or not but don’t think so, BUT :
I love description and details as much as the next reader but not to this extent.
There was way too much passage and parts of this book that were so so so long and so over detailed… at least half of the books is unnecessary to the plot, relationships or even knowledge of the world for the reader, it’s really just not interesting and I felt so bored by it, I understand why a lot of people did not finish this book.
( To the contrary for example I’ve read Ascendant, which is also a book with so many details and description, not always for plot too, but the passage were way more balanced and interesting to read. )
Definitely needed some time laps too sometimes and not every minutes detailed imo.
Also too many times I felt the writer holding my hand with the plot and the few information given in the beginning, we can see a lot coming a mile away because of that, which is a shame.
Just felt like the pacing wasn’t right, this book should have been half of the 1rst book and not a whole book in itself with how little happened and how little the plot did advanced.
I’ve had to many things to say to make it to 3 stars, and also the fact that I was disappointed played too.
Will read book 2 to see where this all goes, hopefully better
I love description and details as much as the next reader but not to this extent.
There was way too much passage and parts of this book that were so so so long and so over detailed… at least half of the books is unnecessary to the plot, relationships or even knowledge of the world for the reader, it’s really just not interesting and I felt so bored by it, I understand why a lot of people did not finish this book.
( To the contrary for example I’ve read Ascendant, which is also a book with so many details and description, not always for plot too, but the passage were way more balanced and interesting to read. )
Definitely needed some time laps too sometimes and not every minutes detailed imo.
Also too many times I felt the writer holding my hand with the plot and the few information given in the beginning, we can see a lot coming a mile away because of that, which is a shame.
Just felt like the pacing wasn’t right, this book should have been half of the 1rst book and not a whole book in itself with how little happened and how little the plot did advanced.
I’ve had to many things to say to make it to 3 stars, and also the fact that I was disappointed played too.
Will read book 2 to see where this all goes, hopefully better
July 31, 2025
I read this in a matter of hours. It was so compelling that I couldn’t put it down. The introductory chapter starts with a bang but the book then moves to the story of Kanastya. The main character is a young woman who is an outcast in her home community. There are a few people who treat her well, but most want nothing to do with her. Fortunately, her grandmother, a healer, protects and teaches her. At one point, the town rounds up young people to be sacrifices, including Kanastya. Most of the story revolves around her experiences and strengths after that. There are plenty of obstacles, naysayers, adventures, and twists to keep readers attentive. The supporting cast includes her surprising grandmother and a potential love interest, so not all is bad for Kanastya. There are also some interesting twists and surprises. I can’t wait for the next book.
August 23, 2025
I love this author. Her prose is lyric, her worlds are compelling and fascinating and her characters don't let you go. I was unsure if she could outdo her Tower series that I loved so much. However, this new dragon series is AMAZING! I love the world although I am dying to know more. I love the characters -- Kanastya is so strong and resilient despite being bullied her entire life. This adventure as she swaps out one life for another draws you in chapter by chapter. I just couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. The secondary characters are well drawn and keep you engaged. I am already looking forward to seeing them again. I can't wait for the next book. Don't miss the beginning of this new series!
August 24, 2025
What a fabulous start to a new series! Kanastya looks different and is tormented by the villagers. She lives with her grandmother, the village healer, on the edges of the swamp away from those who pick on her. The healer seems to have enough influence to keep her safe as long as she is careful.
What ensues is a wonderful story of dragons, battles and friendship. Great world building combined with an easy readability, probably because the characters are brought to life. I can't wait for the next in the series.
What ensues is a wonderful story of dragons, battles and friendship. Great world building combined with an easy readability, probably because the characters are brought to life. I can't wait for the next in the series.
October 23, 2025
Good Story!!!
When I first started this book I put it down twice , the beginning was kind of slow until she caught the spear and threw it back. This book progressively got better as I continued to read it and by end I was saying to myself what will the second story be about. I’m about to start the second book now!!!
When I first started this book I put it down twice , the beginning was kind of slow until she caught the spear and threw it back. This book progressively got better as I continued to read it and by end I was saying to myself what will the second story be about. I’m about to start the second book now!!!
December 19, 2025
I am glad for this story
I’ve been going through a lot of tough times lately and none of the stories I started were finished. That is so not normal for me. Your story is the first in a week that I finished that wasn’t a craft book. I LOVE Skent. Reminded me of Dobby the house elf. Believable characters dealing with real issues. Looking forward to 2
I’ve been going through a lot of tough times lately and none of the stories I started were finished. That is so not normal for me. Your story is the first in a week that I finished that wasn’t a craft book. I LOVE Skent. Reminded me of Dobby the house elf. Believable characters dealing with real issues. Looking forward to 2
September 19, 2025
Toot!
This is a different story line and very enjoyable. Nita is adept with building interesting characters who slowly come to life in your imagination. Definitely worth the trip through this saga. I can't wait for the next book!
This is a different story line and very enjoyable. Nita is adept with building interesting characters who slowly come to life in your imagination. Definitely worth the trip through this saga. I can't wait for the next book!
October 13, 2025
A wonderful dragon story!
Loved the freshness and excitement of this storyline! The characters are so well done and relate well to each other. Their development and interactions are great and continue growing. An interesting read and excellent new dragon series begins.
Loved the freshness and excitement of this storyline! The characters are so well done and relate well to each other. Their development and interactions are great and continue growing. An interesting read and excellent new dragon series begins.
October 23, 2025
The cover image is very deceptive. World building: GREAT. Dragons: kind of nice but not many of them in this book. Certainly not two with the main character. Plot: not entirely missing but definitely short. It's basically one long road trip where a few things happen.
October 26, 2025
Good story
This tale has good and exciting times in it. Strangers can be sometimes unusual but not really different other than looks, you really have to try and give them a opportunity to show if they can be a friend or foe.
This tale has good and exciting times in it. Strangers can be sometimes unusual but not really different other than looks, you really have to try and give them a opportunity to show if they can be a friend or foe.
November 2, 2025
Great Read!
I really enjoyed this book watching Kanastya, Morgana and Aeshin travel their rocky road to finding their true destination of their destination. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and will definitely recommend this book to everyone.
I really enjoyed this book watching Kanastya, Morgana and Aeshin travel their rocky road to finding their true destination of their destination. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series and will definitely recommend this book to everyone.
September 2, 2025
Black Dragon Rising
I enjoyed this book because it was clean reading. I liked the fact the gamma stayed with her granddaughter throughout her adventures.
I enjoyed this book because it was clean reading. I liked the fact the gamma stayed with her granddaughter throughout her adventures.
September 21, 2025
KU) Clean
September 24, 2025
Great story
Nita has written a great story, full of adventure, friendship, and drama. The tale is well written and edited. Looking forward to the sequel.
Nita has written a great story, full of adventure, friendship, and drama. The tale is well written and edited. Looking forward to the sequel.
October 13, 2025
Heck of a fun dragon story
Such a fun story about a misfit girl who lives in a would of dragons and magic. Definitely recommend 👌
Such a fun story about a misfit girl who lives in a would of dragons and magic. Definitely recommend 👌
October 16, 2025
Interesting tale.
Very Good read. I Want to read more. The tale is well written. Can't wait for more. Please. And thank you.
Very Good read. I Want to read more. The tale is well written. Can't wait for more. Please. And thank you.
October 25, 2025
Excellent story and Characters
Loved this story, so different from typical dragon tales. Can't wait to see where the story goes and what happens with the MCs.
Loved this story, so different from typical dragon tales. Can't wait to see where the story goes and what happens with the MCs.
October 30, 2025
Great story
I loved all the difference characters in this book series.
I liked that they are growing and learn new things.
I can't wait to read the next book.
I loved all the difference characters in this book series.
I liked that they are growing and learn new things.
I can't wait to read the next book.
December 5, 2025
Like dragons
Liked the world scape and the fleshed out person's. Will be going for the next one. Thank you for your imagination.
Liked the world scape and the fleshed out person's. Will be going for the next one. Thank you for your imagination.
December 7, 2025
too slow. There was a lot of lulls and, even with the lack of action, it felt like too much information was missing to really have a sense of plot.
December 25, 2025
many twists and turns
It has been good to see the details and complexities added but by bit. Makes for better I retraction into the whole story. Anxious for book 2.
It has been good to see the details and complexities added but by bit. Makes for better I retraction into the whole story. Anxious for book 2.
November 17, 2025
ya know- i was hooked by the prologue! intense opening scene of a dragon being born and a sacrifice made and then… going into the store everything just died down quite a bit.
i didn’t mind the writing, i enjoyed it quite a bit! however, i also felt like so little happened in the store because we got lost in details. maybe it’s just a big set up for the next book in the series, but we see Kanastya being taken as a sacrifice and she is to go to the King’s Weyr to do something with dragon’s and be loyal to the crown… and it took the entire book just to get there. idk. i felt underwhelmed by the ending tbh.
i appreciate the maybe lesbian romance budding? or maybe it’ll just be platonic. i’ll probably read the next book but i need something a little more enticing before i come back to a slower read.
i didn’t mind the writing, i enjoyed it quite a bit! however, i also felt like so little happened in the store because we got lost in details. maybe it’s just a big set up for the next book in the series, but we see Kanastya being taken as a sacrifice and she is to go to the King’s Weyr to do something with dragon’s and be loyal to the crown… and it took the entire book just to get there. idk. i felt underwhelmed by the ending tbh.
i appreciate the maybe lesbian romance budding? or maybe it’ll just be platonic. i’ll probably read the next book but i need something a little more enticing before i come back to a slower read.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews