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Dragonbound Chronicles #1
Wings of Life
Not yet published
Expected 26 May 26Fans of enemies-to-lovers romance and epic dragon-filled fantasy will be swept into Le Fay's Wings of Life, where duty, danger, and forbidden desire collide.
They cast me off to Rihtlond as a bride.
They don’t care if I come back alive.
Too sharp-tongued and too curious, I am my mother’s greatest lament and my father’s constant frustration. Unwilling to bow to their will, I’ve become expendable, worth sending on a mission doomed to fail.
Armed with nothing but a coded journal, a quill, and my wits, I’m thrust into the kingdom of our oldest enemy—a land of storms and warriors—to wed their high dane’s son. Trapped on their ruthless continent, I am no blushing bride. I’m a spy sent to unlock Rihtlond’s weaknesses… a cuckoo in the robin’s nest.
But my heart still bleeds red when the weaponmaster of these strange people steals it away. Through him, I learn to unlock their secrets. What I uncover is more dangerous than I ever magic thrumming in the roots of Rihtlond, a dragon hidden in plain sight, and a love I was never meant to feel. Holding this knowledge, I am meant to return home and bind myself to a future I was given long ago.
Now, as war rises and alliances crumble, I must choose between duty and desire, between the family who cast me aside and the bond that awakens who I truly am. To protect what I’ve found—and who I become—I must risk everything. Even if it brands me a traitor. Even if it costs me my life.
They cast me off to Rihtlond as a bride.
They don’t care if I come back alive.
Too sharp-tongued and too curious, I am my mother’s greatest lament and my father’s constant frustration. Unwilling to bow to their will, I’ve become expendable, worth sending on a mission doomed to fail.
Armed with nothing but a coded journal, a quill, and my wits, I’m thrust into the kingdom of our oldest enemy—a land of storms and warriors—to wed their high dane’s son. Trapped on their ruthless continent, I am no blushing bride. I’m a spy sent to unlock Rihtlond’s weaknesses… a cuckoo in the robin’s nest.
But my heart still bleeds red when the weaponmaster of these strange people steals it away. Through him, I learn to unlock their secrets. What I uncover is more dangerous than I ever magic thrumming in the roots of Rihtlond, a dragon hidden in plain sight, and a love I was never meant to feel. Holding this knowledge, I am meant to return home and bind myself to a future I was given long ago.
Now, as war rises and alliances crumble, I must choose between duty and desire, between the family who cast me aside and the bond that awakens who I truly am. To protect what I’ve found—and who I become—I must risk everything. Even if it brands me a traitor. Even if it costs me my life.
688 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 26, 2026
About the author
Meghan Le Fay
2 books116 followersMeghan Le Fay hails from present-day Earth, despite her lifelong dream of being born as an elf in Middle-earth. A constant and consummate fan of fantasy, she lives, breathes, and dreams in the spidery language of the magic. Her works are inspired by her obsessions with mythology, medieval history, and all things magical and mystical—especially dragons.
When not writing or daydreaming of other realms, Meghan can be found avoiding the Arizona desert heat through reading, crafting, music, or dance. Or having wild adventures (both real and imaginary) with her family.
When not writing or daydreaming of other realms, Meghan can be found avoiding the Arizona desert heat through reading, crafting, music, or dance. Or having wild adventures (both real and imaginary) with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
March 23, 2026
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
I couldn’t put this book down, I absolutely adored everything about this. Between the jumps in different time lines, plot twists, dragons, magic system, and the love interests I devoured this book in two days. There are LGBTQIA+ characters, MM, and MF representation in this. I was confused in the beginning with how the chapters jumped, but like in every great fantasy book it all ties in at the end. I am going to need book two as soon as it comes out!
Thank you Meghan and Page & Vine for this eARC!
I couldn’t put this book down, I absolutely adored everything about this. Between the jumps in different time lines, plot twists, dragons, magic system, and the love interests I devoured this book in two days. There are LGBTQIA+ characters, MM, and MF representation in this. I was confused in the beginning with how the chapters jumped, but like in every great fantasy book it all ties in at the end. I am going to need book two as soon as it comes out!
Thank you Meghan and Page & Vine for this eARC!
March 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this eARC.
This starts as your typical romantasy where the princess is to be married to a prince from enemy territory. Then we have an unnecessarily long journey to said territory. Then we find out over half of the book was just one giant miscommunication trope. Then we end the book with just…impending doom?
Serae was your typical FMC who grows into her own throughout the book. She also ends up injured and bed ridden quite frequently, which did nothing to advance the plot ever.
The plot really didn’t pick up for me until over halfway in, and I wanted to DNF but I pushed through. The writing and sentence structure is choppy at best. I’m pretty sure I still don’t know what dowsa is? I enjoyed the dragon and magic aspects but it was only in relation to Serae. Others have magic but you never find out. The found family aspect what decent but the emotional attachment to those characters never came.
I most likely will not be reading book two when it is published later this year - the cliffhanger was not enough for me to continue being interested.
This starts as your typical romantasy where the princess is to be married to a prince from enemy territory. Then we have an unnecessarily long journey to said territory. Then we find out over half of the book was just one giant miscommunication trope. Then we end the book with just…impending doom?
Serae was your typical FMC who grows into her own throughout the book. She also ends up injured and bed ridden quite frequently, which did nothing to advance the plot ever.
The plot really didn’t pick up for me until over halfway in, and I wanted to DNF but I pushed through. The writing and sentence structure is choppy at best. I’m pretty sure I still don’t know what dowsa is? I enjoyed the dragon and magic aspects but it was only in relation to Serae. Others have magic but you never find out. The found family aspect what decent but the emotional attachment to those characters never came.
I most likely will not be reading book two when it is published later this year - the cliffhanger was not enough for me to continue being interested.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2026
First I’d like to thank NetGalley and the author/publisher for an e-advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
This does contain spoilers, so if you don’t want to be spoiled, come back after and let me know if you agree!
After almost DNF this book, I’m glad I pushed through. This is a great read for dragon lovers, magic, enemies to lovers, and an interesting cliffhanger.
The beginning intimacy scenes felt forced, the scenario of “sold off princess for a political alliance” was a repetitive situation, and I wish the first chapter was a different POV. HOWEVER - once Serae gets to Riht, the story picks up pretty quickly.
Parts of the book were a bit choppy in making connections to some of the subplots and greater plot, but overall I found it was well paced and kept me turning page after page!
I did find the ending unsatisfying with Serae and Eldreth. It wasn’t necessarily a cliffhanger, just an awkward way to end the book. I wish there had been more resolve and coming together for them (and an end to the slow burn) versus what actually happens. That felt like a missed opportunity for me.
All in all, the slow burn, the proximity, the buildup between them, however, was fantastic! I loooved the banter and thought the moments of Serae coming to her own and the growth of her character were well done. And the Dragonbound? Come on, that’s just fulfilling for any fantasy lover!
The found family aspect is there, however you really only get a couple additional glimpses into that trope and there’s not as much connection emotionally for the reader as there could be. I did love the creativity of the magic and the different gifts/blessings, I thought that was a unique magic system that I’d not read before!
Although off to a slower start, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading book 2!!
This does contain spoilers, so if you don’t want to be spoiled, come back after and let me know if you agree!
After almost DNF this book, I’m glad I pushed through. This is a great read for dragon lovers, magic, enemies to lovers, and an interesting cliffhanger.
The beginning intimacy scenes felt forced, the scenario of “sold off princess for a political alliance” was a repetitive situation, and I wish the first chapter was a different POV. HOWEVER - once Serae gets to Riht, the story picks up pretty quickly.
Parts of the book were a bit choppy in making connections to some of the subplots and greater plot, but overall I found it was well paced and kept me turning page after page!
I did find the ending unsatisfying with Serae and Eldreth. It wasn’t necessarily a cliffhanger, just an awkward way to end the book. I wish there had been more resolve and coming together for them (and an end to the slow burn) versus what actually happens. That felt like a missed opportunity for me.
All in all, the slow burn, the proximity, the buildup between them, however, was fantastic! I loooved the banter and thought the moments of Serae coming to her own and the growth of her character were well done. And the Dragonbound? Come on, that’s just fulfilling for any fantasy lover!
The found family aspect is there, however you really only get a couple additional glimpses into that trope and there’s not as much connection emotionally for the reader as there could be. I did love the creativity of the magic and the different gifts/blessings, I thought that was a unique magic system that I’d not read before!
Although off to a slower start, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading book 2!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2026
If you love dragons, fantasy worlds, and a little romantic tension, there’s definitely a lot here to enjoy. The overall concept pulled me in, and I liked the mix of danger, magic, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic woven throughout the story. It had the kind of setup that makes you curious to see where the series is going next. 
For me, this was one of those books I liked more than I loved. There were parts that felt a little slower than I wanted, and I didn’t feel fully hooked the entire time, but I still enjoyed the story overall and thought it had a lot of potential.
If you’re a fantasy reader who enjoys dragons, tension, and a romance-forward plot, this one is worth checking out.
For me, it lands at 3.5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for the ARC to review.
For me, this was one of those books I liked more than I loved. There were parts that felt a little slower than I wanted, and I didn’t feel fully hooked the entire time, but I still enjoyed the story overall and thought it had a lot of potential.
If you’re a fantasy reader who enjoys dragons, tension, and a romance-forward plot, this one is worth checking out.
For me, it lands at 3.5 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for the ARC to review.
April 11, 2026
Just finished Wings of Life and really enjoyed it! 🐉✨
A strong, fiery heroine 💪 paired with a tense, slow-burn romance ❤️🔥 made this such an engaging read. The world of Rihtlond felt dark, atmospheric, and full of hidden dangers 🌩️🏰, and I loved uncovering its secrets alongside her 🔍.
The dragon elements were a standout for me 🐲—woven in a way that felt mysterious and powerful. Some moments were a little slower than I expected ⏳, but the emotional pull and twists definitely paid off 💫.
A solid 4-star read ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and one I’d recommend to fantasy lovers! 📖
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC 🙏💜
A strong, fiery heroine 💪 paired with a tense, slow-burn romance ❤️🔥 made this such an engaging read. The world of Rihtlond felt dark, atmospheric, and full of hidden dangers 🌩️🏰, and I loved uncovering its secrets alongside her 🔍.
The dragon elements were a standout for me 🐲—woven in a way that felt mysterious and powerful. Some moments were a little slower than I expected ⏳, but the emotional pull and twists definitely paid off 💫.
A solid 4-star read ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and one I’d recommend to fantasy lovers! 📖
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC 🙏💜
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Strap in, Fourth Wing fans, for the next romantasy hit that captures the Fourth Wing feel while also managing to be a unique take on dragon-bonding and magic, filled with political tension and slow-burning romance.
Serae is not what a young lady is expected to be. She rides her horse astride, enjoys archery, has a rogue tongue and a fiery temper, and is not at all content to live the boring life of a lady and wife. While she is fortunate that her father intends to wed her to her best friend, the "boxed-in life of a woman" is not one that will satisfy her. Yet, when she is told she is being sent as a spy to Rihtlond by posing as their heir's betrothed, she is anything but pleased by the impending adventure. Feeling that her mission is doomed to fail, she arrives in Rihtlond to find that nothing is what she expected. It is not long before she feels herself torn between her father's orders and the desires of her heart, as she becomes more and more attached to the weaponmaster tasked with training her, as well as the land, its people, and the dragon that claims her.
We see this woman, who felt so out of place in her own land, come into her own in her new home. She faces trials and challenges, growing pains that allow her to become more herself as she embraces her new role and the traditions of this new place. Some might complain about how often she finds herself injured, but I saw it as her body catching up with her strong spirit. The society she came from didn't allow her the chance to cultivate her body as it did her mind, as ladies there are expected to be demure, and she started at a disadvantage in this other culture because of it. Having her struggle was a necessary part of her journey and growth, and I appreciated that while her bond with Vaya'la imbued her with certain powers, it didn't give her a shortcut where her strength and fighting skills were concerned, especially when learning those skills is such an important part of Rihtlond's culture. She needed to do that work herself, IMO, for herself and for the people of Rihtlond who need to accept her as one of their own.
I felt the worldbuilding was very strong, and the book (IMO) was intentionally paced, with some sections moving slower or faster as the story required. The scenes where there was risk truly felt like the stakes were real, and I found myself wincing at the danger characters faced. I liked the multi-POV, where we had to go off of the characters' perceptions and infer certain things for ourselves. It felt like the confusion I had reading some sections was intended, as we're not meant to know everything yet. I enjoyed the banter between Sarea and Wep, and that between the members of the ranng. The dialogue between Sarea and Vaya'la felt very similar to that between riders and their dragons in Fourth Wing, though the dragon-bonding system is different in this book, as there are only a handful of dragon/gods, and so far there hasn't been any riding. In most of the book Vaya'la is present as a voice in Sarea's head. Also, Vaya'la offers gifts to others besides Sarea, as many in Rihtlond have a blessing, or bierlae, which grants each a specific ability, though as her chosen Sarea has much more power.
This is a story of unexpected belonging, of found family and found purpose. I found most characters diverse and lovable (except for Ellán, who I can't get a read on yet), and I cared about what happened to them. I love how the romance isn't the only important relationship in this book. Throughout the story, Sarea grows closer to many characters, including her lady's maid, her ranng, the master tea brewer, and more.
Themes/tropes:
- arranged marriage
- political tension/intrigue
- training
- banter
- defied expectations
- dragon bonding
- slow burn, forbidden desire
- miscommunication
- enemies to lovers
- found family
- duty vs desire
I look forward to reading the rest of the series, and am thankful for receiving an advanced copy to read and review!
Serae is not what a young lady is expected to be. She rides her horse astride, enjoys archery, has a rogue tongue and a fiery temper, and is not at all content to live the boring life of a lady and wife. While she is fortunate that her father intends to wed her to her best friend, the "boxed-in life of a woman" is not one that will satisfy her. Yet, when she is told she is being sent as a spy to Rihtlond by posing as their heir's betrothed, she is anything but pleased by the impending adventure. Feeling that her mission is doomed to fail, she arrives in Rihtlond to find that nothing is what she expected. It is not long before she feels herself torn between her father's orders and the desires of her heart, as she becomes more and more attached to the weaponmaster tasked with training her, as well as the land, its people, and the dragon that claims her.
We see this woman, who felt so out of place in her own land, come into her own in her new home. She faces trials and challenges, growing pains that allow her to become more herself as she embraces her new role and the traditions of this new place. Some might complain about how often she finds herself injured, but I saw it as her body catching up with her strong spirit. The society she came from didn't allow her the chance to cultivate her body as it did her mind, as ladies there are expected to be demure, and she started at a disadvantage in this other culture because of it. Having her struggle was a necessary part of her journey and growth, and I appreciated that while her bond with Vaya'la imbued her with certain powers, it didn't give her a shortcut where her strength and fighting skills were concerned, especially when learning those skills is such an important part of Rihtlond's culture. She needed to do that work herself, IMO, for herself and for the people of Rihtlond who need to accept her as one of their own.
I felt the worldbuilding was very strong, and the book (IMO) was intentionally paced, with some sections moving slower or faster as the story required. The scenes where there was risk truly felt like the stakes were real, and I found myself wincing at the danger characters faced. I liked the multi-POV, where we had to go off of the characters' perceptions and infer certain things for ourselves. It felt like the confusion I had reading some sections was intended, as we're not meant to know everything yet. I enjoyed the banter between Sarea and Wep, and that between the members of the ranng. The dialogue between Sarea and Vaya'la felt very similar to that between riders and their dragons in Fourth Wing, though the dragon-bonding system is different in this book, as there are only a handful of dragon/gods, and so far there hasn't been any riding. In most of the book Vaya'la is present as a voice in Sarea's head. Also, Vaya'la offers gifts to others besides Sarea, as many in Rihtlond have a blessing, or bierlae, which grants each a specific ability, though as her chosen Sarea has much more power.
This is a story of unexpected belonging, of found family and found purpose. I found most characters diverse and lovable (except for Ellán, who I can't get a read on yet), and I cared about what happened to them. I love how the romance isn't the only important relationship in this book. Throughout the story, Sarea grows closer to many characters, including her lady's maid, her ranng, the master tea brewer, and more.
Themes/tropes:
- arranged marriage
- political tension/intrigue
- training
- banter
- defied expectations
- dragon bonding
- slow burn, forbidden desire
- miscommunication
- enemies to lovers
- found family
- duty vs desire
I look forward to reading the rest of the series, and am thankful for receiving an advanced copy to read and review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Firstly, thank-you netgalley and the author/publisher for letting me read the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Please note, that my thoughts are completely my own and are often filled with spoilers, so will spoiler alert the rest of the review.
OVERALL SCORE: 3.5-4 STARS
SPICE LEVEL: 2
One final note, not sure if it was the way it is on kindle, but the layout is actually terrible. Sentences are chopped up and don't line up well, so it took a while to get past this issue.
OVERALL SCORE: 3.5-4 STARS
SPICE LEVEL: 2
One final note, not sure if it was the way it is on kindle, but the layout is actually terrible. Sentences are chopped up and don't line up well, so it took a while to get past this issue.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.75⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Page & Vine for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was overall a 3.75⭐️ read for me, however there were many times I wanted to give it that boost up to a 4⭐️ read.
It gave us:
✨ Dragons
✨ Arranged marriage
✨ Warring kingdoms
✨ Kick ass women
✨ Hidden identities
✨Reluctant attraction
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Found family
There were a lot of things to love about it!
Plot and Writing
Seare is a second born daughter, and while she has always expected to marry her long time friend and lover, Tam, she one day finds herself betrothed to the heir of a rival kingdom. Being used as a political pawn in a scheme her father has designed, Seare finds herself setting sail to a land rumoured to be hostile with people said to be violent and unwelcoming.
The plot has everything I love in a romantasy selection and I fell right into this story. It had me hooked for a good portion of the start, but I did find the pace slowed down quite a bit for awhile. It picks up again toward the final third of the book and definitely leaves me wanting to know what happens in book two.
Many of the plot twists I did anticipate, but while they were predictable I also found them satisfying (does that make sense? lol). There was a decent amount of world building and while I found some of it repeated often, the world itself was well built. It was mainly the pacing that felt off for me. I also loved how every chapter began with an excerpt from a previous Dragonbound's journal.
Characters
I enjoyed our MFC Seare. I love stories where the female finds her inner strength throughout the book and this is definitely one of those. I also love that she had to WORK for it, and her gifts and status change didn't just hand her over a new personality. I did find some of her actions a little bit inconsistent, but those times aligned with the spots where I felt the pacing was off in the writing.
I didn't completely love the connection between Seare and her dragon. There was just something missing for me there. I'm hoping this connection builds in the next book.
To avoid spoilers, I won't go into detail about all the additional characters. I did adore Wep though, as well as Gerta and Teke. I would have loved a bit more depth to many of the side characters, but Meghan Le Fay did a great job of having a variety of characters.
This was overall a comfort read for the romantasy genre.
It may not have been a 5-star love, but I did enjoy it and will be reading book 2.
Thank you to NetGalley and Page & Vine for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was overall a 3.75⭐️ read for me, however there were many times I wanted to give it that boost up to a 4⭐️ read.
It gave us:
✨ Dragons
✨ Arranged marriage
✨ Warring kingdoms
✨ Kick ass women
✨ Hidden identities
✨Reluctant attraction
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Found family
There were a lot of things to love about it!
Plot and Writing
Seare is a second born daughter, and while she has always expected to marry her long time friend and lover, Tam, she one day finds herself betrothed to the heir of a rival kingdom. Being used as a political pawn in a scheme her father has designed, Seare finds herself setting sail to a land rumoured to be hostile with people said to be violent and unwelcoming.
The plot has everything I love in a romantasy selection and I fell right into this story. It had me hooked for a good portion of the start, but I did find the pace slowed down quite a bit for awhile. It picks up again toward the final third of the book and definitely leaves me wanting to know what happens in book two.
Many of the plot twists I did anticipate, but while they were predictable I also found them satisfying (does that make sense? lol). There was a decent amount of world building and while I found some of it repeated often, the world itself was well built. It was mainly the pacing that felt off for me. I also loved how every chapter began with an excerpt from a previous Dragonbound's journal.
Characters
I enjoyed our MFC Seare. I love stories where the female finds her inner strength throughout the book and this is definitely one of those. I also love that she had to WORK for it, and her gifts and status change didn't just hand her over a new personality. I did find some of her actions a little bit inconsistent, but those times aligned with the spots where I felt the pacing was off in the writing.
I didn't completely love the connection between Seare and her dragon. There was just something missing for me there. I'm hoping this connection builds in the next book.
To avoid spoilers, I won't go into detail about all the additional characters. I did adore Wep though, as well as Gerta and Teke. I would have loved a bit more depth to many of the side characters, but Meghan Le Fay did a great job of having a variety of characters.
This was overall a comfort read for the romantasy genre.
It may not have been a 5-star love, but I did enjoy it and will be reading book 2.
May 12, 2026
Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay
They cast me off to Rihtlond as a bride.
They don’t care if I come back alive.
Sent away as a political pawn, Serea is too sharp-tongued, too curious, and too unwilling to obey—so her family makes her expendable. Armed with nothing but a coded journal, a quill, and her wits, she’s sent to the enemy kingdom to marry into their ruling family… not for peace, but for secrets. A spy disguised as a bride in a land built on war, storms, and suspicion.
And I absolutely ate this up.
Wings of Life follows Serea as she navigates Rihtlond, a kingdom full of warriors, hidden magic, and political tension, while trying to uncover its weaknesses for her own people. But nothing is as simple as she was told. The more she learns, the more everything she believes starts to unravel.
The beginning was a little confusing for me and took a few chapters to fully settle into, but once it clicked, I was completely hooked.
The worldbuilding is rich and immersive without being overwhelming. Rihtlond feels dark, atmospheric, and layered with history, and I really loved how small pieces of lore at the start of each chapter slowly built into something much bigger by the end.
And Serea herself is such a strong FMC. Watching her go from someone constantly controlled and underestimated to someone who learns to adapt, endure, and fight back was one of my favorite parts of the book. There’s a line that really stuck with me: “I became an instrument of death, for through death, I would find a way to thrive.” That basically sums her up.
There’s also a really engaging slow-burn romance with the weaponmaster. Broody, dangerous, and completely forbidden—the tension between them is sharp from the start and only gets better as the story unfolds. The banter + emotional pull combo really worked for me.
And the dragon elements? Obsessed. 🐉
They’re woven into the world in a way that feels mysterious and powerful rather than overdone, and I loved slowly uncovering how everything connects.
The story does have some slower moments, but they’re balanced by emotional depth, political tension, and reveals that genuinely surprised me even when I thought I had things figured out.
And the ending?
Absolutely unhinged in the best way. Fast-paced, chaotic, and left me staring at the page like I had no idea what just happened.
If you like:
🐉 dragon romantasy
🖤 enemies-to-lovers / forbidden romance
🗡️ spy bride + political intrigue
🔥 slow burn tension & banter
👑 strong FMC growth arcs
🌩️ war, secrets, and hidden magic
you’ll probably love this.
A solid 4★ for me, and I’m already looking forward to book two.
They cast me off to Rihtlond as a bride.
They don’t care if I come back alive.
Sent away as a political pawn, Serea is too sharp-tongued, too curious, and too unwilling to obey—so her family makes her expendable. Armed with nothing but a coded journal, a quill, and her wits, she’s sent to the enemy kingdom to marry into their ruling family… not for peace, but for secrets. A spy disguised as a bride in a land built on war, storms, and suspicion.
And I absolutely ate this up.
Wings of Life follows Serea as she navigates Rihtlond, a kingdom full of warriors, hidden magic, and political tension, while trying to uncover its weaknesses for her own people. But nothing is as simple as she was told. The more she learns, the more everything she believes starts to unravel.
The beginning was a little confusing for me and took a few chapters to fully settle into, but once it clicked, I was completely hooked.
The worldbuilding is rich and immersive without being overwhelming. Rihtlond feels dark, atmospheric, and layered with history, and I really loved how small pieces of lore at the start of each chapter slowly built into something much bigger by the end.
And Serea herself is such a strong FMC. Watching her go from someone constantly controlled and underestimated to someone who learns to adapt, endure, and fight back was one of my favorite parts of the book. There’s a line that really stuck with me: “I became an instrument of death, for through death, I would find a way to thrive.” That basically sums her up.
There’s also a really engaging slow-burn romance with the weaponmaster. Broody, dangerous, and completely forbidden—the tension between them is sharp from the start and only gets better as the story unfolds. The banter + emotional pull combo really worked for me.
And the dragon elements? Obsessed. 🐉
They’re woven into the world in a way that feels mysterious and powerful rather than overdone, and I loved slowly uncovering how everything connects.
The story does have some slower moments, but they’re balanced by emotional depth, political tension, and reveals that genuinely surprised me even when I thought I had things figured out.
And the ending?
Absolutely unhinged in the best way. Fast-paced, chaotic, and left me staring at the page like I had no idea what just happened.
If you like:
🐉 dragon romantasy
🖤 enemies-to-lovers / forbidden romance
🗡️ spy bride + political intrigue
🔥 slow burn tension & banter
👑 strong FMC growth arcs
🌩️ war, secrets, and hidden magic
you’ll probably love this.
A solid 4★ for me, and I’m already looking forward to book two.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and & Meghan for the ARC.
📚 Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay
Series: Dragonbound Chronicles Book 1
Expected publication: May 26, 2026
Publisher: Page & Vine
Genre: Romantasy | Fantasy romance
Vibes: enemies to lovers, arranged marriage spy, dragon lore, war and betrayal, slow burn tension
Sent away as a bride.
Trained as a spy.
Destined to become something far more dangerous.
Serea has never been what her family wanted. Too sharp. Too curious. Too unwilling to fall in line.
So they make her expendable.
She is sent to marry into an enemy kingdom… not for peace, but for secrets.
What makes this romantasy hit:
🐉 Dragon mythology woven into the world
🖤 Enemies to lovers with forbidden attraction
🗡 Spy bride navigating a hostile kingdom
🔥 Banter filled chemistry with a broody weaponmaster
⚡ Trials, war, and shifting alliances
Armed with coded journals and her wit, Serea enters Rihtlond as both bride and spy. But everything she thought she knew begins to unravel the moment she arrives.
The people she was taught to hate are not what they seem.
And neither is the truth.
As she undergoes brutal trials and uncovers hidden magic rooted deep within the land, she is forced to question everything… including where her loyalty lies.
And then there is him.
The weaponmaster.
Brooding. Dangerous. Completely forbidden.
Their chemistry is sharp, tension filled, and full of the kind of banter that makes you kick your feet while knowing this is going to hurt later.
Serea is such a strong FMC. Watching her adapt, grow, and step into her power as she navigates a world that was meant to break her is one of the best parts of the story.
The worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming, with dragons, magic, and political tension all woven together in a way that keeps the story moving.
And the twists?
They keep coming.
Just when you think you have it figured out… you don’t.
If you love:
🐉 Dragon filled romantasy
🖤 Spy x enemy romance
🔥 Slow burn tension and banter
⚡ Strong FMC character growth
this is definitely one to add to your list.
💬 Are you more drawn to dragon stories or fae worlds in romantasy?
#WingsOfLife
#DragonboundChronicles
#RomantasyBooks
#EnemiesToLovers
#BookstagramReads
📚 Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay
Series: Dragonbound Chronicles Book 1
Expected publication: May 26, 2026
Publisher: Page & Vine
Genre: Romantasy | Fantasy romance
Vibes: enemies to lovers, arranged marriage spy, dragon lore, war and betrayal, slow burn tension
Sent away as a bride.
Trained as a spy.
Destined to become something far more dangerous.
Serea has never been what her family wanted. Too sharp. Too curious. Too unwilling to fall in line.
So they make her expendable.
She is sent to marry into an enemy kingdom… not for peace, but for secrets.
What makes this romantasy hit:
🐉 Dragon mythology woven into the world
🖤 Enemies to lovers with forbidden attraction
🗡 Spy bride navigating a hostile kingdom
🔥 Banter filled chemistry with a broody weaponmaster
⚡ Trials, war, and shifting alliances
Armed with coded journals and her wit, Serea enters Rihtlond as both bride and spy. But everything she thought she knew begins to unravel the moment she arrives.
The people she was taught to hate are not what they seem.
And neither is the truth.
As she undergoes brutal trials and uncovers hidden magic rooted deep within the land, she is forced to question everything… including where her loyalty lies.
And then there is him.
The weaponmaster.
Brooding. Dangerous. Completely forbidden.
Their chemistry is sharp, tension filled, and full of the kind of banter that makes you kick your feet while knowing this is going to hurt later.
Serea is such a strong FMC. Watching her adapt, grow, and step into her power as she navigates a world that was meant to break her is one of the best parts of the story.
The worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming, with dragons, magic, and political tension all woven together in a way that keeps the story moving.
And the twists?
They keep coming.
Just when you think you have it figured out… you don’t.
If you love:
🐉 Dragon filled romantasy
🖤 Spy x enemy romance
🔥 Slow burn tension and banter
⚡ Strong FMC character growth
this is definitely one to add to your list.
💬 Are you more drawn to dragon stories or fae worlds in romantasy?
#WingsOfLife
#DragonboundChronicles
#RomantasyBooks
#EnemiesToLovers
#BookstagramReads
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.75⭐️
.5 🌶
What's inside:
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Strong FMC
- Dragon Gods & Bonds
- Found Family
- Training
- Political Intrigue
- Duty vs. Desire
Overall, I enjoyed Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay. Its a different twist on dragons and their bonds, along with an arranged marriage that causes the FMC to be torn between duty and desire.
When Serae is sent off to marry the heir of the enemy kingdom, her father gives her a mission - learn their secrets and weaknesses, then send them back to him using coded messages.
But, what no one can predict is the chemistry and draw between Serae and the enemy weapons master, or the magic that is awakening in the land due to her arrival there.
Caught between duty to her father and king, and the connections she forges with the people of Riht, Serea must decide whether to follow her mission or her heart, and then deal with the aftermath that each choice will bring.
I am always down for a good romantasy book that has dragons and political intrigue. What's different about this one is the way the dragons are worshipped as Gods to these people and what a bond between the dragon and their "bound" means for that person. The story and struggle of Serea kept me interested enough that I may read the next book.
Here's what I didnt love.
The authors writing style is very choppy, using a lot of short sentences rather than words that flow through the story. The miscommunication trope was over-used; repeatedly, the FMC and MMC we just about to clear the air when they were interrupted and stopped from finishing their important conversation. Also, the FMC is very strong in mind and spirit, but constantly ends up injured and forced to spend time in bed to recover. Between the choppy writing style and the over-use of the things above, the story drags at certain points and lost my interest in places.
I did enjoy the plot line and the premise of the story, and with a little different execution this book could go from "OK" to great. I will say that I wasn't tempted to DNF the book, I just didnt love it as much as I had hoped to.
Thank you to Megan Le Fay, Page and Vine publishing and to NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
.5 🌶
What's inside:
- Arranged Marriage
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Strong FMC
- Dragon Gods & Bonds
- Found Family
- Training
- Political Intrigue
- Duty vs. Desire
Overall, I enjoyed Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay. Its a different twist on dragons and their bonds, along with an arranged marriage that causes the FMC to be torn between duty and desire.
When Serae is sent off to marry the heir of the enemy kingdom, her father gives her a mission - learn their secrets and weaknesses, then send them back to him using coded messages.
But, what no one can predict is the chemistry and draw between Serae and the enemy weapons master, or the magic that is awakening in the land due to her arrival there.
Caught between duty to her father and king, and the connections she forges with the people of Riht, Serea must decide whether to follow her mission or her heart, and then deal with the aftermath that each choice will bring.
I am always down for a good romantasy book that has dragons and political intrigue. What's different about this one is the way the dragons are worshipped as Gods to these people and what a bond between the dragon and their "bound" means for that person. The story and struggle of Serea kept me interested enough that I may read the next book.
Here's what I didnt love.
The authors writing style is very choppy, using a lot of short sentences rather than words that flow through the story. The miscommunication trope was over-used; repeatedly, the FMC and MMC we just about to clear the air when they were interrupted and stopped from finishing their important conversation. Also, the FMC is very strong in mind and spirit, but constantly ends up injured and forced to spend time in bed to recover. Between the choppy writing style and the over-use of the things above, the story drags at certain points and lost my interest in places.
I did enjoy the plot line and the premise of the story, and with a little different execution this book could go from "OK" to great. I will say that I wasn't tempted to DNF the book, I just didnt love it as much as I had hoped to.
Thank you to Megan Le Fay, Page and Vine publishing and to NetGalley for an eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5⭐️ - 0.5🌶
☆ Arranged marriage
☆ Badass FMC
☆ Dragon bond
☆ Found family
☆ Slow burn
NetGalley ARC review
Thanks to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, Page & Vine and Meghan Le Fay for the free copy.
Alright, so I won’t lie, I considered DNF’ing this book multiple times, but I stuck it out partly because I’m stubborn and partly because I wanted to see where it was going.
This story was slow, and not just in the romance but in the plot too. The world building comes through the FMC discovering everything herself, which got frustrating at times since we never really get that broader narrator perspective. Even the MMC’s chapters were deceiving.
I did like the love story, the side characters and the found family element. It gave me strong vibes of The Bridge Kingdom and I’m still not sure if that’s a good or bad thing. I also don’t love that the last 30% made me want to pick up the next book, because if the pacing stays the same, it might end up being a DNF for me.
The dragon relationship felt a bit off too. It seemed like the author was aiming for a sassy dragon, but it mostly fell flat for me. I would recommend this book if you enjoy a slow pace and miscommunication trope.
Favorite quotes:
> I folded my hands in front of me and stared straight ahead. I would probably hold more purpose as a statue.
> My traitorous body responded to him on instinct. He was one giant storm cloud wrapped up in a package designed by the Creator himself to bring me to my knees.
> A loud snore rumbled the cavern, making the pebbles at my feet quake. I fought back a smirk. Message received. Apparently, she was a surly dragon.
> Dragons’ balls, he noticed. “What do you know of dragon balls? You seem rather preoccupied with this one’s—”“Finish that sentence, and I’ll make all my dreams the kind you detest.”“Is that punishment for me or you?” My mind shook with her laughter.
> “He reveres me like the goddess I am, unlike you, petulant one.”“Don’t be an ass.”“How easily you prove my point.”
> “I don’t know why I ever fought it. The first time I saw you, I knew I was in for it. You looked like you could bring down my entire world around me.”
> “I’m here to get back my betrothed and kill anyone who gets in the fucking way.”
☆ Arranged marriage
☆ Badass FMC
☆ Dragon bond
☆ Found family
☆ Slow burn
NetGalley ARC review
Thanks to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op, Page & Vine and Meghan Le Fay for the free copy.
Alright, so I won’t lie, I considered DNF’ing this book multiple times, but I stuck it out partly because I’m stubborn and partly because I wanted to see where it was going.
This story was slow, and not just in the romance but in the plot too. The world building comes through the FMC discovering everything herself, which got frustrating at times since we never really get that broader narrator perspective. Even the MMC’s chapters were deceiving.
I did like the love story, the side characters and the found family element. It gave me strong vibes of The Bridge Kingdom and I’m still not sure if that’s a good or bad thing. I also don’t love that the last 30% made me want to pick up the next book, because if the pacing stays the same, it might end up being a DNF for me.
The dragon relationship felt a bit off too. It seemed like the author was aiming for a sassy dragon, but it mostly fell flat for me. I would recommend this book if you enjoy a slow pace and miscommunication trope.
Favorite quotes:
> I folded my hands in front of me and stared straight ahead. I would probably hold more purpose as a statue.
> My traitorous body responded to him on instinct. He was one giant storm cloud wrapped up in a package designed by the Creator himself to bring me to my knees.
> A loud snore rumbled the cavern, making the pebbles at my feet quake. I fought back a smirk. Message received. Apparently, she was a surly dragon.
> Dragons’ balls, he noticed. “What do you know of dragon balls? You seem rather preoccupied with this one’s—”“Finish that sentence, and I’ll make all my dreams the kind you detest.”“Is that punishment for me or you?” My mind shook with her laughter.
> “He reveres me like the goddess I am, unlike you, petulant one.”“Don’t be an ass.”“How easily you prove my point.”
> “I don’t know why I ever fought it. The first time I saw you, I knew I was in for it. You looked like you could bring down my entire world around me.”
> “I’m here to get back my betrothed and kill anyone who gets in the fucking way.”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay is a breathtaking romance that has it all: forbidden love, political intrigue, dragons, and a powerful quest for identity. From the very first page, you are drawn into a world full of danger and magic. Where nothing is what it seems and every choice has life-changing consequences.
The story follows Serae Cavendaffe, a sharp, headstrong, and intelligent young woman. She is sent by her family to Rihtlond under the guise of an arranged marriage, but in reality, she is a spy. What makes Serae so strong is her inner struggle: she constantly balances her loyalty to her family with her growing doubts about everything she has ever believed. She is brave, curious and refuses to be broken, even when standing completely alone in a hostile world.
Opposite her stands Wep, the mysterious and impressive weapons master of Rihtlond. He is strong, respected, and intimidating, but also surprisingly loyal and just. While Serae initially distrusts everything, Wep is someone who turns her world completely upside down. Their bond slowly grows from distrust into an intense, forbidden attraction. He represents everything she should hate, and yet he is the one who helps her see the truth.
The chemistry between Serae and Wep is absolutely one of the highlights of the book. Their relationship develops in a believable way within an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, full of tension, emotion and inevitable attraction. It makes their choices all the more painful when war looms and loyalties are put to the test.
What makes this book truly special is the rich world-building. From political alliances and dangerous trials to ancient magic and dragons playing a crucial role, everything feels grand and compelling. Serae’s discovery of hidden powers and her connection to a mighty dragon add an extra layer that makes the story even more epic.
In short: Wings of Life is a must-read for romance lovers. With a strong female protagonist, an intriguing love interest, and a world full of dragons and secrets, this is the kind of book that completely absorbs you and stays with you for a long time.
Thank you to Meghan Le Fay and Netgalley for the ARC.
The story follows Serae Cavendaffe, a sharp, headstrong, and intelligent young woman. She is sent by her family to Rihtlond under the guise of an arranged marriage, but in reality, she is a spy. What makes Serae so strong is her inner struggle: she constantly balances her loyalty to her family with her growing doubts about everything she has ever believed. She is brave, curious and refuses to be broken, even when standing completely alone in a hostile world.
Opposite her stands Wep, the mysterious and impressive weapons master of Rihtlond. He is strong, respected, and intimidating, but also surprisingly loyal and just. While Serae initially distrusts everything, Wep is someone who turns her world completely upside down. Their bond slowly grows from distrust into an intense, forbidden attraction. He represents everything she should hate, and yet he is the one who helps her see the truth.
The chemistry between Serae and Wep is absolutely one of the highlights of the book. Their relationship develops in a believable way within an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, full of tension, emotion and inevitable attraction. It makes their choices all the more painful when war looms and loyalties are put to the test.
What makes this book truly special is the rich world-building. From political alliances and dangerous trials to ancient magic and dragons playing a crucial role, everything feels grand and compelling. Serae’s discovery of hidden powers and her connection to a mighty dragon add an extra layer that makes the story even more epic.
In short: Wings of Life is a must-read for romance lovers. With a strong female protagonist, an intriguing love interest, and a world full of dragons and secrets, this is the kind of book that completely absorbs you and stays with you for a long time.
Thank you to Meghan Le Fay and Netgalley for the ARC.
May 10, 2026
“I must never forget that I was an outsider here, a lone foreigner thrust into the heart of my enemy.”
✨ Arranged marriage
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Dragons
✨ Found family
✨ Political intrigue
Serae is sent to Rihtlond to marry Eldreth as part of a political alliance, but honestly… from the moment she arrives, nothing feels straightforward. She’s walking into a kingdom that does not want her, trying to play spy while also just trying to stay alive. It’s tense in that delicious way where you know every choice she makes could burn everything down.
The found family here is a real highlight. The people she ends up fighting alongside give the story so much warmth and grounding amid all the political chaos.
“He nodded once, a small smile twisting the side of his mouth and reaching his silver eyes. I had never seen anything more beautiful. I was well and truly fucked.”
Wep is absolutely that slow, devastating shift from enemy to someone she cannot ignore. Their chemistry is messy, intense, and full of those tiny moments where you can see the danger and the inevitability at the same time.
Watching Serae step into her magic was another thing I really loved. It gives her agency in a world built to swallow her whole, and it makes the stakes feel so much sharper when everything starts escalating.
“This man would ruin me, and I would let him.”
The political intrigue is constant, with shifting loyalties and that nagging sense that nothing is what it seems. The romance grows right in the middle of all of that, full of tension, restraint, and so many nearly moments.
“There were so many sinful things I wanted to do with him, but I did not want to be the reason for his pain.”
By the time the ending hits, you’re equal parts devastated and desperate for whatever comes next. This had compelling character growth, dragon lore, magic blooming under pressure, and a romance that keeps pulling tighter in all the best ways.
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
✨ Arranged marriage
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Dragons
✨ Found family
✨ Political intrigue
Serae is sent to Rihtlond to marry Eldreth as part of a political alliance, but honestly… from the moment she arrives, nothing feels straightforward. She’s walking into a kingdom that does not want her, trying to play spy while also just trying to stay alive. It’s tense in that delicious way where you know every choice she makes could burn everything down.
The found family here is a real highlight. The people she ends up fighting alongside give the story so much warmth and grounding amid all the political chaos.
“He nodded once, a small smile twisting the side of his mouth and reaching his silver eyes. I had never seen anything more beautiful. I was well and truly fucked.”
Wep is absolutely that slow, devastating shift from enemy to someone she cannot ignore. Their chemistry is messy, intense, and full of those tiny moments where you can see the danger and the inevitability at the same time.
Watching Serae step into her magic was another thing I really loved. It gives her agency in a world built to swallow her whole, and it makes the stakes feel so much sharper when everything starts escalating.
“This man would ruin me, and I would let him.”
The political intrigue is constant, with shifting loyalties and that nagging sense that nothing is what it seems. The romance grows right in the middle of all of that, full of tension, restraint, and so many nearly moments.
“There were so many sinful things I wanted to do with him, but I did not want to be the reason for his pain.”
By the time the ending hits, you’re equal parts devastated and desperate for whatever comes next. This had compelling character growth, dragon lore, magic blooming under pressure, and a romance that keeps pulling tighter in all the best ways.
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Page and Vine books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Meghan Le Fay clearly sat down and decided to write exactly the kind of fantasy I didn't know I was missing. Wings of Life is a richly imagined world with a heroine who absolutely refuses to be broken.
Serae is everything I want in a fantasy protagonist. She is smart, strong, and relentlessly determined. Sent to a foreign country where she doesn't speak the language, doesn't know the customs, has no family, and is actively despised by those around her and yet she perseveres. Watching her carve out her place in a world that wants nothing to do with her is both painful and exhilarating. Her arc is perfectly captured in one of my favorite lines from the book: "I became an instrument of death, for through death, I would find a way to thrive." That single sentence tells you everything you need to know about who Serae is and what she's willing to do to survive.
The world-building is beautiful and layered, and one of the most clever structural choices Le Fay makes is opening each chapter with a small piece of history. It feels like flavor at first, interesting context, easy to appreciate on its own, but by the end, all of those little fragments come together in a way that genuinely rewarded my attention. It's the kind of detail that makes you want to flip back and reread with fresh eyes.
Yes, this is a longer book, and there were moments where I thought I had it all figured out and honestly, sometimes I did. But Le Fay has a way of letting you feel clever right up until she quietly rearranges everything you thought you knew.
The setup for book two is excellent — I'm already eager to see where the entire world goes from here.
If you love determined heroines, immersive world-building, and stories that reward patient readers, Wings of Life absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Meghan Le Fay clearly sat down and decided to write exactly the kind of fantasy I didn't know I was missing. Wings of Life is a richly imagined world with a heroine who absolutely refuses to be broken.
Serae is everything I want in a fantasy protagonist. She is smart, strong, and relentlessly determined. Sent to a foreign country where she doesn't speak the language, doesn't know the customs, has no family, and is actively despised by those around her and yet she perseveres. Watching her carve out her place in a world that wants nothing to do with her is both painful and exhilarating. Her arc is perfectly captured in one of my favorite lines from the book: "I became an instrument of death, for through death, I would find a way to thrive." That single sentence tells you everything you need to know about who Serae is and what she's willing to do to survive.
The world-building is beautiful and layered, and one of the most clever structural choices Le Fay makes is opening each chapter with a small piece of history. It feels like flavor at first, interesting context, easy to appreciate on its own, but by the end, all of those little fragments come together in a way that genuinely rewarded my attention. It's the kind of detail that makes you want to flip back and reread with fresh eyes.
Yes, this is a longer book, and there were moments where I thought I had it all figured out and honestly, sometimes I did. But Le Fay has a way of letting you feel clever right up until she quietly rearranges everything you thought you knew.
The setup for book two is excellent — I'm already eager to see where the entire world goes from here.
If you love determined heroines, immersive world-building, and stories that reward patient readers, Wings of Life absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📝 ARC Review: OMG… Okay, so the prologue and first 3-4 chapters had me confused and I wasn’t vibing with it… but by chapter 5 I was hooked! I devoured the story after that and it just kept getting better! The tension, intrigue, the delicious slow burn of their romance, the enjoyable found family aspect and the fact that the people of Rhit are bada$$! My emotions definitely got involved! The climactic fast paced action at the end of the book had me on the edge of my seat with my mouth literally hanging open. (My bf chose that moment to ask me a question and I looked at him and said shhh can’t you tell I’m reading?! 😂)
I loved seeing how the FMC, despite her stubborn nature, slowly morphed from the young woman not allowed to do more than be present in her own city/home, into a stronger woman who could fight and endure pain and who wouldn’t simply let men walk all over her again, because of the training her new home/city of Rhit gave her! I also loved the grumpy weaponmaster!
If you love a good slow burn and magical powers, if you love warrior women and “I’ll fight till the death for you” men, then give this series a try! I cannot wait for book 2 and I preordered the physical copy of this one as soon as I read the final page!!!
Vibes: Intense action; betrayal; and a slow building romance filled with just the right amount of tension and angst!
Genre: Romantasy
Series: Dragonbound Chronicles, Book 1.
POV: First Person; Multi
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Release Date: May 26, 2026
Tropes 👇
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Arranged marriage
- Slow burn
- Found family
- Magical powers
- Dragons
- Battles/war training
- Stubborn/snarky FMC
- Grumpy Weapon-master
- LGBTQ rep (side characters)
CW’s 👇
- Slavery/ownership of people
- Injuries & death in battle
- Physical torture from a parent
- Captivity/imprisonment
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved seeing how the FMC, despite her stubborn nature, slowly morphed from the young woman not allowed to do more than be present in her own city/home, into a stronger woman who could fight and endure pain and who wouldn’t simply let men walk all over her again, because of the training her new home/city of Rhit gave her! I also loved the grumpy weaponmaster!
If you love a good slow burn and magical powers, if you love warrior women and “I’ll fight till the death for you” men, then give this series a try! I cannot wait for book 2 and I preordered the physical copy of this one as soon as I read the final page!!!
Vibes: Intense action; betrayal; and a slow building romance filled with just the right amount of tension and angst!
Genre: Romantasy
Series: Dragonbound Chronicles, Book 1.
POV: First Person; Multi
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Release Date: May 26, 2026
Tropes 👇
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Arranged marriage
- Slow burn
- Found family
- Magical powers
- Dragons
- Battles/war training
- Stubborn/snarky FMC
- Grumpy Weapon-master
- LGBTQ rep (side characters)
CW’s 👇
- Slavery/ownership of people
- Injuries & death in battle
- Physical torture from a parent
- Captivity/imprisonment
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Page and Vine for an advanced readers copy of this book for an honest review!
A Viking aesthetic and dragons are for sure the way to my heart so I was exceptionally thrilled to be reading this ARC. It ended up being a solid 3.25 - 3.5 star read for me and has me excited for this series to continue.
Wings Of Life had a lot of proven elements of current popular romantasy books - marriage of convenience to a foreign prince, as feisty bookish redheaded FMC (loved the glasses), a new kingdom with its own trials and people unwilling to accept our FMC and a lot of misunderstandings. And all of this was well executed and at times seemed to deviation from how these well-tried tropes commonly pan out.
(I do have to say it reminded me a lot of Shield of Sparrows)
Wings Of Life is one of those books that grows on you the more you immerse yourself in this unbelievably thorough and detailed worldbuilding and magic system.
I adored getting to know Drakh and it's customs and different belief systems better while Serae explored magic and trained to win the trials.
She did take a while to grow in me as a FMC, but I found myself enjoying her story at the 50% mark when she found her footing within the kingdom and things with the MMC started heating up. The lovestories between other characters introduced were a great add on.
I did however really struggle with how long the miscommunication trope was used to push plot when there wasn't really anything happening aside from her getting injured in training/trials.
Something I struggled with towards the beginning of the book that got better with time was the writing style, which is definitely more on the descriptive and not emotional side. It also seemed like the plot randomly jumped from one setting to the next a lot and that had me wondering if I had missed something.
The last 20% really solidified for me that I will be continuing this series, especially with how Serea finally let loose and stood up for herself and demanded her place in this world - but I do feel like that could have happened faster.
A Viking aesthetic and dragons are for sure the way to my heart so I was exceptionally thrilled to be reading this ARC. It ended up being a solid 3.25 - 3.5 star read for me and has me excited for this series to continue.
Wings Of Life had a lot of proven elements of current popular romantasy books - marriage of convenience to a foreign prince, as feisty bookish redheaded FMC (loved the glasses), a new kingdom with its own trials and people unwilling to accept our FMC and a lot of misunderstandings. And all of this was well executed and at times seemed to deviation from how these well-tried tropes commonly pan out.
(I do have to say it reminded me a lot of Shield of Sparrows)
Wings Of Life is one of those books that grows on you the more you immerse yourself in this unbelievably thorough and detailed worldbuilding and magic system.
I adored getting to know Drakh and it's customs and different belief systems better while Serae explored magic and trained to win the trials.
She did take a while to grow in me as a FMC, but I found myself enjoying her story at the 50% mark when she found her footing within the kingdom and things with the MMC started heating up. The lovestories between other characters introduced were a great add on.
I did however really struggle with how long the miscommunication trope was used to push plot when there wasn't really anything happening aside from her getting injured in training/trials.
Something I struggled with towards the beginning of the book that got better with time was the writing style, which is definitely more on the descriptive and not emotional side. It also seemed like the plot randomly jumped from one setting to the next a lot and that had me wondering if I had missed something.
The last 20% really solidified for me that I will be continuing this series, especially with how Serea finally let loose and stood up for herself and demanded her place in this world - but I do feel like that could have happened faster.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of Advanced Copy received from NetGalley
This book doesn’t just pull you in—it drags you across storm-lashed shores, hands you a dagger, and whispers choose carefully. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the very first line, the heroine’s voice is sharp as shattered glass and twice as dangerous. She isn’t your typical pawn in a political marriage—she’s a storm disguised as a bride, sent into enemy territory with nothing but ink, instinct, and a mind that refuses to be caged. And watching her navigate Rihtlond? Absolutely addictive.
The worldbuilding feels alive, like the land itself is breathing secrets. Storms rage, warriors loom, and beneath it all there’s something deeper—ancient, pulsing magic that coils through the roots of the kingdom like a sleeping beast. Every revelation raises the stakes, and just when you think you’ve found solid ground, the story tilts again.
And then there’s him—the weaponmaster. Not just a love interest, but a slow-burning wildfire. Their connection simmers with tension, trust, and that delicious sense of this is a terrible idea… but I’m doing it anyway. It’s intimate without losing the edge of danger, and every interaction feels like walking a blade.
What truly makes this story shine is the emotional conflict. This isn’t just enemies-to-lovers—it’s loyalty versus identity, survival versus self-discovery. The heroine’s journey from expendable daughter to someone forging her own fate is powerful, raw, and deeply satisfying.
By the end, you’re left wrecked in the best way—heart racing, loyalties tangled, and desperate for more.
If you love:
✨ Spy brides with bite
✨ Forbidden, slow-burn romance
✨ Lush, dangerous fantasy worlds
✨ Secrets, magic, and dragons lurking in plain sight
…then clear your schedule, because this one will own you.
This book doesn’t just pull you in—it drags you across storm-lashed shores, hands you a dagger, and whispers choose carefully. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the very first line, the heroine’s voice is sharp as shattered glass and twice as dangerous. She isn’t your typical pawn in a political marriage—she’s a storm disguised as a bride, sent into enemy territory with nothing but ink, instinct, and a mind that refuses to be caged. And watching her navigate Rihtlond? Absolutely addictive.
The worldbuilding feels alive, like the land itself is breathing secrets. Storms rage, warriors loom, and beneath it all there’s something deeper—ancient, pulsing magic that coils through the roots of the kingdom like a sleeping beast. Every revelation raises the stakes, and just when you think you’ve found solid ground, the story tilts again.
And then there’s him—the weaponmaster. Not just a love interest, but a slow-burning wildfire. Their connection simmers with tension, trust, and that delicious sense of this is a terrible idea… but I’m doing it anyway. It’s intimate without losing the edge of danger, and every interaction feels like walking a blade.
What truly makes this story shine is the emotional conflict. This isn’t just enemies-to-lovers—it’s loyalty versus identity, survival versus self-discovery. The heroine’s journey from expendable daughter to someone forging her own fate is powerful, raw, and deeply satisfying.
By the end, you’re left wrecked in the best way—heart racing, loyalties tangled, and desperate for more.
If you love:
✨ Spy brides with bite
✨ Forbidden, slow-burn romance
✨ Lush, dangerous fantasy worlds
✨ Secrets, magic, and dragons lurking in plain sight
…then clear your schedule, because this one will own you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Victory Editing, Page & Vine and Meghan Le Fay for the early digital copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Wings of life is the first book in the Dragonbound chronicles series. It follows Serae, who is sent to an enemy kingdom as a bride for their heir, under the pretense of a possible alliance when really, her father sent her as a spy to learn as much as possible about their culture, their keep, their army and more.
Serae comes from Inra, where the idea of women learning to fight and defend themselves is ludicrous. Why would we need that when we have abusive and misogynistic men to defend us huh ?
So it was a surprise when she arrived in Rithtlond and is expected to train, as training the body will train the mind, and they wouldn't expect anything less from their future Dana.
Her training is a journey that I personally loved. She formed friendships with her raang, and the bond that developed between her and Wes had me giggling and kicking my feet a few times.
Wep is an amazing MMC. He pushed her to be better and their chemistry was insane.
I won't say more because *SPOILERS* but I wish he was called by his name and title a lil bit earlier as this leaned towards the miscommunication drama a bit too much for me. BUT, I liked how this problem was dealt with by the end so all good hahah.
The plot of this book really kept me hooked. I very much enjoyed the world building and the dragon side of the story. How important they are in the creation of their world and I loved every interaction serae has with her bound. I cannot wait to see more of them and of the dragons in the following. books in this series.
All in all a great start to a romantasy series. The ending definitely keeps me wanting more.
Wings of life is the first book in the Dragonbound chronicles series. It follows Serae, who is sent to an enemy kingdom as a bride for their heir, under the pretense of a possible alliance when really, her father sent her as a spy to learn as much as possible about their culture, their keep, their army and more.
Serae comes from Inra, where the idea of women learning to fight and defend themselves is ludicrous. Why would we need that when we have abusive and misogynistic men to defend us huh ?
So it was a surprise when she arrived in Rithtlond and is expected to train, as training the body will train the mind, and they wouldn't expect anything less from their future Dana.
Her training is a journey that I personally loved. She formed friendships with her raang, and the bond that developed between her and Wes had me giggling and kicking my feet a few times.
Wep is an amazing MMC. He pushed her to be better and their chemistry was insane.
I won't say more because *SPOILERS* but I wish he was called by his name and title a lil bit earlier as this leaned towards the miscommunication drama a bit too much for me. BUT, I liked how this problem was dealt with by the end so all good hahah.
The plot of this book really kept me hooked. I very much enjoyed the world building and the dragon side of the story. How important they are in the creation of their world and I loved every interaction serae has with her bound. I cannot wait to see more of them and of the dragons in the following. books in this series.
All in all a great start to a romantasy series. The ending definitely keeps me wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2026
Noooooo! I don’t even know where to begin!
First of all, thank you so much to Meghan Le Fey and the publishers and NetGalley for approving me for this arc!
Y’all! This story had me HOOKED! I dove straight in and I’m so glad I did.
It starts with a short prologue and can seem kind of confusing at first. But I promise you, there’s a point to that.
Multi POV and slight time jumps
Strong minded and stubborn FMC
Delectable MMC
Perfect banter
Protective and hilarious found family
Misconceptions
Arranged Betrothal
Dragons!
“They don’t care if I come back alive. Too sharp tongued and too curious, I am my mothers greatest lament and my fathers constant frustration. Unwilling to bow to their will, I’ve become expendable, worth sending on a mission doomed to fail.”
Serae is the FMC and she is a beautiful and stubborn redhead. She is to be married off to an enemy kingdom so that an alliance may be called between them. What the other kingdom doesn’t know is that she was sent with a mission to send information back to her father.
What she doesn’t know is that she is going to be competing with duty and desire.
The enemy lands are far different from what she expected and the people, even more.
She expected barbarians. What she found was a family.
The MMC, that’s a surprise. But trust me, you want to get to know him. You want him to be the “villain” of your story!
There’s magic afoot and things that the FMC does not understand. But she’ll soon find that she’s bound to someone that she least expected.
I CANNOT wait for book 2! I am praying the ARC is also put up on NetGalley! The author did the dang thing with this one!
Releases May 26, 2026! Add it to your TBR now!
First of all, thank you so much to Meghan Le Fey and the publishers and NetGalley for approving me for this arc!
Y’all! This story had me HOOKED! I dove straight in and I’m so glad I did.
It starts with a short prologue and can seem kind of confusing at first. But I promise you, there’s a point to that.
Multi POV and slight time jumps
Strong minded and stubborn FMC
Delectable MMC
Perfect banter
Protective and hilarious found family
Misconceptions
Arranged Betrothal
Dragons!
“They don’t care if I come back alive. Too sharp tongued and too curious, I am my mothers greatest lament and my fathers constant frustration. Unwilling to bow to their will, I’ve become expendable, worth sending on a mission doomed to fail.”
Serae is the FMC and she is a beautiful and stubborn redhead. She is to be married off to an enemy kingdom so that an alliance may be called between them. What the other kingdom doesn’t know is that she was sent with a mission to send information back to her father.
What she doesn’t know is that she is going to be competing with duty and desire.
The enemy lands are far different from what she expected and the people, even more.
She expected barbarians. What she found was a family.
The MMC, that’s a surprise. But trust me, you want to get to know him. You want him to be the “villain” of your story!
There’s magic afoot and things that the FMC does not understand. But she’ll soon find that she’s bound to someone that she least expected.
I CANNOT wait for book 2! I am praying the ARC is also put up on NetGalley! The author did the dang thing with this one!
Releases May 26, 2026! Add it to your TBR now!
April 17, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
What an incredibly delightful debut Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay is! It is certainly wholly unlike anything involving dragons and dragon lore that I have read. It’s exciting and immersive with a deeply complex world that is richly detailed. This story pulled me in and captivated me with its intrigue, magic and ancient dragon lore.
I absolutely loved Serea! From the very beginning she is feisty, sharp tongued and resilient. She’s thrust into an arranged marriage and shipped off to unknown lands as a spy for her father. She must learn to survive through the training and rites to be accepted as one of the Riht. Serea refuses to give up and be broken even in the face of immense danger. Having spent her entire life at the whims of men, she knows she must find herself and stand on her own.
She may be small and weak….but OH is she mighty!
Then we have the Weaponmaster - her betrothed. He’s broody and secretive and pushes Serea to the ends. He’s not just a love interest, he’s a force of slow burn fire. The tension and angst builds deliciously, and when they ignite there’s no stopping them.
This Romantasy delivers an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, dragon bonds, high stakes, found family, political intrigue and tension you can cut with a knife. But most importantly, I feel it’s a journey of self discovery and forging one’s own path, survival amongst all odds, loyalty, love and loss. By the end, I was left with a huge hole in my heart and wanting more.
Thank you to Page & Vine books, Victory Editing and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy of Wings of Life in exchange for an honest review.
What an incredibly delightful debut Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay is! It is certainly wholly unlike anything involving dragons and dragon lore that I have read. It’s exciting and immersive with a deeply complex world that is richly detailed. This story pulled me in and captivated me with its intrigue, magic and ancient dragon lore.
I absolutely loved Serea! From the very beginning she is feisty, sharp tongued and resilient. She’s thrust into an arranged marriage and shipped off to unknown lands as a spy for her father. She must learn to survive through the training and rites to be accepted as one of the Riht. Serea refuses to give up and be broken even in the face of immense danger. Having spent her entire life at the whims of men, she knows she must find herself and stand on her own.
She may be small and weak….but OH is she mighty!
Then we have the Weaponmaster - her betrothed. He’s broody and secretive and pushes Serea to the ends. He’s not just a love interest, he’s a force of slow burn fire. The tension and angst builds deliciously, and when they ignite there’s no stopping them.
This Romantasy delivers an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers, dragon bonds, high stakes, found family, political intrigue and tension you can cut with a knife. But most importantly, I feel it’s a journey of self discovery and forging one’s own path, survival amongst all odds, loyalty, love and loss. By the end, I was left with a huge hole in my heart and wanting more.
Thank you to Page & Vine books, Victory Editing and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy of Wings of Life in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A bride, a spy, and a dragon bound fate she never saw coming. 💫
I had such a good time with Serae and Wep’s story. If you love enemies to lovers, slow burn tension, and dragon filled fantasy, this one 𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭.
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐞 is sent to Rihtlond as a bride, but she is not there for love. She is there as a spy, tasked by her father to uncover secrets and send them back through coded letters. She must navigate a new language, culture, and brutal trials that challenge everything she thought she knew. Watching her adapt, question her upbringing, and grow into her power was 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 of this story.
And then there is 𝐖𝐞𝐩. The weaponmaster. Broody, sharp, and impossible to ignore. The tension between him and Serae is layered with longing, restraint, and just enough danger to keep you hooked.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 really stood out to me. The mind speak, the humor, and the sense of ancient power woven throughout added so much depth and magic.
The world of Rihtlond feels dark, immersive, and full of secrets. Nothing is quite what it seems, and that constant unraveling kept me fully invested.
A strong, fiery heroine paired with a slow build romance and a richly imagined world made this such an engaging read for me. My only small qualm is that I found it a bit odd that she was not properly introduced to her intended, but I will leave it at that to avoid spoilers.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and completely devoured it. I am very ready for what comes next.
This absolutely 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 edition was #gifted by @pageandvinebooks and @luvbooksclub and I am so grateful! 🤍 Thank you so much!
4.5 beautiful stars!
I had such a good time with Serae and Wep’s story. If you love enemies to lovers, slow burn tension, and dragon filled fantasy, this one 𝐩𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭.
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐞 is sent to Rihtlond as a bride, but she is not there for love. She is there as a spy, tasked by her father to uncover secrets and send them back through coded letters. She must navigate a new language, culture, and brutal trials that challenge everything she thought she knew. Watching her adapt, question her upbringing, and grow into her power was 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 of this story.
And then there is 𝐖𝐞𝐩. The weaponmaster. Broody, sharp, and impossible to ignore. The tension between him and Serae is layered with longing, restraint, and just enough danger to keep you hooked.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧 𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 really stood out to me. The mind speak, the humor, and the sense of ancient power woven throughout added so much depth and magic.
The world of Rihtlond feels dark, immersive, and full of secrets. Nothing is quite what it seems, and that constant unraveling kept me fully invested.
A strong, fiery heroine paired with a slow build romance and a richly imagined world made this such an engaging read for me. My only small qualm is that I found it a bit odd that she was not properly introduced to her intended, but I will leave it at that to avoid spoilers.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and completely devoured it. I am very ready for what comes next.
This absolutely 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 edition was #gifted by @pageandvinebooks and @luvbooksclub and I am so grateful! 🤍 Thank you so much!
4.5 beautiful stars!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
" You're the big strong man coming to solve all my problems are you? Well, it was big strong men who got me into this mess, so you'll forgive my skepticism."
If you loved the poison daughter and fourth wing you need to read this book! Wings of life is the first book in a new Romantasy series by Meghan le fay.
You will love Serea the FMC who to her parents is the Bain of there existence. With a mans brain in a women's body Serea is seen as expandable to her parents that would much rather send her off then deall with the antics her and her brother Bale would get into. Except Bale is now off fighting in the war, has gone MIA, and her father has devised a way for you to be of use to them.
She is arranged to marry the leader of Rihtlonds son. Instead of being the excited bride, her father trains her in coded messaging for her to be there spy. Instead of peace they are trying to find out the secrets the Riht keep.
Once she gets to Rihtlond everything she knows is about to change. She must fight the attraction she has to the weapons master even though her feeling are forbidden. Survive the sun trials to become a part of the Riht and fight to find her place.
The chemistry and banter between Wep and Serea will have you kicking your feet. There are multiple POV's that interconnect which help build each character and the importance of the relationships they make. I honestly loved this book so much and if any of this sounds like your type of book. Definitely check it out when it hits shelves on May 26th!
Thank you netgalley for the eARC!
If you loved the poison daughter and fourth wing you need to read this book! Wings of life is the first book in a new Romantasy series by Meghan le fay.
You will love Serea the FMC who to her parents is the Bain of there existence. With a mans brain in a women's body Serea is seen as expandable to her parents that would much rather send her off then deall with the antics her and her brother Bale would get into. Except Bale is now off fighting in the war, has gone MIA, and her father has devised a way for you to be of use to them.
She is arranged to marry the leader of Rihtlonds son. Instead of being the excited bride, her father trains her in coded messaging for her to be there spy. Instead of peace they are trying to find out the secrets the Riht keep.
Once she gets to Rihtlond everything she knows is about to change. She must fight the attraction she has to the weapons master even though her feeling are forbidden. Survive the sun trials to become a part of the Riht and fight to find her place.
The chemistry and banter between Wep and Serea will have you kicking your feet. There are multiple POV's that interconnect which help build each character and the importance of the relationships they make. I honestly loved this book so much and if any of this sounds like your type of book. Definitely check it out when it hits shelves on May 26th!
Thank you netgalley for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Magical, adventurous, and full of heart
Wings of Life is a strong and captivating start to the Dragonbound Chronicles series, and it completely swept me into its world of dragons, destiny, and rising stakes.
From the very beginning, there’s a sense of wonder woven through the story. The bond between human and dragon is such a powerful element, and I loved how it was explored—not just as something magical, but something emotional and deeply personal. It gave the story a lot of heart.
The main character’s journey really pulled me in. Watching them grow into their role, face challenges, and come to terms with their place in this world felt both engaging and rewarding. There’s a nice balance between vulnerability and strength that made it easy to root for them.
The world-building was another highlight. It felt rich and immersive without being overwhelming, with just enough detail to bring everything to life while still leaving me wanting more. The stakes steadily build, and by the end, I was completely invested in what’s to come next.
I also appreciated the pacing—it kept things moving while still allowing for character development and emotional beats. That said, there were a few moments where I wanted a bit more depth, especially when it came to certain relationships or plot elements.
Overall, this is a magical and engaging start to a dragon-filled fantasy series that promises even more adventure ahead. If you love dragons, found family vibes, and coming-of-age journeys wrapped in high-stakes fantasy, this is definitely one to pick up.
Wings of Life is a strong and captivating start to the Dragonbound Chronicles series, and it completely swept me into its world of dragons, destiny, and rising stakes.
From the very beginning, there’s a sense of wonder woven through the story. The bond between human and dragon is such a powerful element, and I loved how it was explored—not just as something magical, but something emotional and deeply personal. It gave the story a lot of heart.
The main character’s journey really pulled me in. Watching them grow into their role, face challenges, and come to terms with their place in this world felt both engaging and rewarding. There’s a nice balance between vulnerability and strength that made it easy to root for them.
The world-building was another highlight. It felt rich and immersive without being overwhelming, with just enough detail to bring everything to life while still leaving me wanting more. The stakes steadily build, and by the end, I was completely invested in what’s to come next.
I also appreciated the pacing—it kept things moving while still allowing for character development and emotional beats. That said, there were a few moments where I wanted a bit more depth, especially when it came to certain relationships or plot elements.
Overall, this is a magical and engaging start to a dragon-filled fantasy series that promises even more adventure ahead. If you love dragons, found family vibes, and coming-of-age journeys wrapped in high-stakes fantasy, this is definitely one to pick up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Wings of Life was such a solid and enjoyable romantasy read for me, and it hooked me pretty quickly. The whole spy bride sent into enemy territory angle, mixed with political tension, magic, and dragons, was right up my alley and exactly the kind of story I gravitate toward.
What I really appreciated was that there’s an actual plot here driving everything forward. It’s not just romance dropped into a fantasy setting and called a day. The world feels layered, there are secrets unraveling as the story progresses, and that constant tension between loyalty and growing feelings kept me fully invested. I loved watching everything slowly shift as the FMC starts questioning what she’s been told versus what she’s experiencing.
The romance was one of my favorite parts. It leans into that slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers feel with just enough tension to keep it interesting without rushing anything. It felt natural, not forced, and I appreciated that it took its time building.
There were a few moments where I found myself wanting just a little more depth or a bit more time with certain emotional beats, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The story, the world, and the concept are all strong, and there’s so much potential here moving forward.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It has all the elements I look for in a romantasy, dragons, political intrigue, a strong FMC, and a romance that builds with purpose. I’m definitely invested and looking forward to seeing where the next book goes.
What I really appreciated was that there’s an actual plot here driving everything forward. It’s not just romance dropped into a fantasy setting and called a day. The world feels layered, there are secrets unraveling as the story progresses, and that constant tension between loyalty and growing feelings kept me fully invested. I loved watching everything slowly shift as the FMC starts questioning what she’s been told versus what she’s experiencing.
The romance was one of my favorite parts. It leans into that slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers feel with just enough tension to keep it interesting without rushing anything. It felt natural, not forced, and I appreciated that it took its time building.
There were a few moments where I found myself wanting just a little more depth or a bit more time with certain emotional beats, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The story, the world, and the concept are all strong, and there’s so much potential here moving forward.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It has all the elements I look for in a romantasy, dragons, political intrigue, a strong FMC, and a romance that builds with purpose. I’m definitely invested and looking forward to seeing where the next book goes.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.25 rating
A series I can’t wait to continue! What a cliffhanger!
The plot absolutely had me hooked from the very beginning but I can’t help but feel as if something was missing. I absolutely loved having some background on Serae and Bale but I wanted more details about their family members and their childhood. I feel like it would’ve made their dynamic that much stronger. We also really don’t get a sense about the other sister who’s a minor character but nonetheless.
When we got to that plot twist in the story, I won’t lie, I wasn’t expecting it! I knew something was going to happen I just didn’t expect for it to be that but I am glad it turned out the way it did. We can see how much Serae is struggling with her feelings with one person even though she knows she can’t have them and the plot twist occurs and you’re just rooting for her!
Also, it was so great to see her really grow into herself and develop as an individual person when she’s away from her family. She became strong, and resilient, and confident because they allowed her to grow into who she truly was meant to be. Lovely character arc.
The name switching really tripped me up and confused me throughout the plot until it clicked at the end when everything was explained. Also, whenever Serae was talking with her dragon, that also confused me. I feel as there should be a separation whenever she’s speaking with her dragon with italics rather than quotations. It would’ve been easier to understand who’s talking with who.
Thank you to Page & Vine publishing for the ARC.
A series I can’t wait to continue! What a cliffhanger!
The plot absolutely had me hooked from the very beginning but I can’t help but feel as if something was missing. I absolutely loved having some background on Serae and Bale but I wanted more details about their family members and their childhood. I feel like it would’ve made their dynamic that much stronger. We also really don’t get a sense about the other sister who’s a minor character but nonetheless.
When we got to that plot twist in the story, I won’t lie, I wasn’t expecting it! I knew something was going to happen I just didn’t expect for it to be that but I am glad it turned out the way it did. We can see how much Serae is struggling with her feelings with one person even though she knows she can’t have them and the plot twist occurs and you’re just rooting for her!
Also, it was so great to see her really grow into herself and develop as an individual person when she’s away from her family. She became strong, and resilient, and confident because they allowed her to grow into who she truly was meant to be. Lovely character arc.
The name switching really tripped me up and confused me throughout the plot until it clicked at the end when everything was explained. Also, whenever Serae was talking with her dragon, that also confused me. I feel as there should be a separation whenever she’s speaking with her dragon with italics rather than quotations. It would’ve been easier to understand who’s talking with who.
Thank you to Page & Vine publishing for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
📖 Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book had me STRESSED, confused, swooning and yelling “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” every second chapter 😭😂
A princess sold off to the enemy kingdom? ✔️
An arranged marriage to a man she absolutely was gonna fall for? ✔️
Forced proximity? ✔️
Mind speaking dragons/magic vibes? ✔️
A MMC who wants to be near her constantly? STOP 🥹❤️
I actually loved that the FMC wasn’t written as some innocent untouched heroine — she had personality, flaws and felt REAL. Also…she wears glasses 👓 and honestly I felt represented 😂
The world and culture differences were so interesting but omg these people were doing my head in at times 😭 The poor girl gets thrown into an entirely different kingdom and nobody explains ANYTHING to her. The miscommunication trope was MISCOMMUNICATING so hard I thought my brain would melt 🫠
But the love between the two MCs?? UGH 😩❤️
The yearning, the protectiveness, the wanting to always be near each other…inject it into my veins.
Also the twists???
Because excuse me??? THE PRISONER??? HER BROTHER??? ELL??? I was losing my mind 😭😂
And don’t even get me started on that ending because HOW did this entire book tease me like....the slow burn burned me😂
Overall, such a fun fantasy romance with tension, secrets, magic, betrayal and enough emotional chaos to keep me fully invested. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC 💕
✨ Tropes ✨
⚔️ Arranged marriage
👑 Enemy kingdom
🔥 Slow burn
🏕 Forced proximity
💭 Mental bond/magic connection
❤️ Protective MMC
🐉 Dragon/magical vibes
😩 Miscommunication
🖤 Political intrigue
📖 Wings of Life by Meghan Le Fay
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book had me STRESSED, confused, swooning and yelling “JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER” every second chapter 😭😂
A princess sold off to the enemy kingdom? ✔️
An arranged marriage to a man she absolutely was gonna fall for? ✔️
Forced proximity? ✔️
Mind speaking dragons/magic vibes? ✔️
A MMC who wants to be near her constantly? STOP 🥹❤️
I actually loved that the FMC wasn’t written as some innocent untouched heroine — she had personality, flaws and felt REAL. Also…she wears glasses 👓 and honestly I felt represented 😂
The world and culture differences were so interesting but omg these people were doing my head in at times 😭 The poor girl gets thrown into an entirely different kingdom and nobody explains ANYTHING to her. The miscommunication trope was MISCOMMUNICATING so hard I thought my brain would melt 🫠
But the love between the two MCs?? UGH 😩❤️
The yearning, the protectiveness, the wanting to always be near each other…inject it into my veins.
Also the twists???
Because excuse me??? THE PRISONER??? HER BROTHER??? ELL??? I was losing my mind 😭😂
And don’t even get me started on that ending because HOW did this entire book tease me like....the slow burn burned me😂
Overall, such a fun fantasy romance with tension, secrets, magic, betrayal and enough emotional chaos to keep me fully invested. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC 💕
✨ Tropes ✨
⚔️ Arranged marriage
👑 Enemy kingdom
🔥 Slow burn
🏕 Forced proximity
💭 Mental bond/magic connection
❤️ Protective MMC
🐉 Dragon/magical vibes
😩 Miscommunication
🖤 Political intrigue
May 12, 2026
So I was lucky enough to get this as an ARC through netgalley and it did not disappoint. Absolutely incredible for me from start to finish. 4.5 ⭐
The story follows Serae who is the daughter of an important Lord and she is being sent away to a neighbouring land to be married to their Danes son. But even though it is an arranged marriage the Lord doesn’t expect her to go through with it… she has been sent there to spy on the land and bring back the secrets that no one knows about the place.
Along the way she learns how strong she actually is and learns the way of the riht including dealing with a great dragon. And all the different aspects of the way these people live. And so many loveable and funny side characters and also the dark and mysterious Wep.
Her betrothal is to eldreth who at this point we don’t know who he actually is however we do get some of his pov too and meet his brother and her brother as well.
We also have some magic and a dragon too which we haven’t actually touched enough on that for me just yet but there is another book.
The world building the character building and the growth of all of this I found absolutely amazing and could not put it down. The story however I would say is quite slow paced due to this so not a lot happens until later on. However I liked this as they did add in different things she had to learn and do.
Fully loved this book, and literally am so invested for book 2.
Dragons, magic, enemies to lovers, forced marriage, a very moody but touch her and die man this was perfection for me
The story follows Serae who is the daughter of an important Lord and she is being sent away to a neighbouring land to be married to their Danes son. But even though it is an arranged marriage the Lord doesn’t expect her to go through with it… she has been sent there to spy on the land and bring back the secrets that no one knows about the place.
Along the way she learns how strong she actually is and learns the way of the riht including dealing with a great dragon. And all the different aspects of the way these people live. And so many loveable and funny side characters and also the dark and mysterious Wep.
Her betrothal is to eldreth who at this point we don’t know who he actually is however we do get some of his pov too and meet his brother and her brother as well.
We also have some magic and a dragon too which we haven’t actually touched enough on that for me just yet but there is another book.
The world building the character building and the growth of all of this I found absolutely amazing and could not put it down. The story however I would say is quite slow paced due to this so not a lot happens until later on. However I liked this as they did add in different things she had to learn and do.
Fully loved this book, and literally am so invested for book 2.
Dragons, magic, enemies to lovers, forced marriage, a very moody but touch her and die man this was perfection for me
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you @netgalley and @pageandvinebooks for this eARC!
Okay so this book?? I was hooked. Like immediately invested, emotionally attached, and fully ready to throw hands for these characters. The vibes were immaculate and I devoured this.
Serea is SUCH a strong FMC. She’s sharp, resilient, and refuses to be broken even when she’s literally thrown into a situation meant to destroy her. Watching her grow into her power in a world that doesn’t want her there was easily one of my favorite parts.
The world-building?? Stunning. Layered, immersive, and honestly really clever. I loved the little history snippets at the start of each chapter. At first they just feel like extra context, but by the end everything clicks together in a way that made me want to flip back and reread. That kind of detail just scratches my brain in the best way.
We’ve got dragons, magic, enemies territory, forced marriage, and a weaponmaster love interest who absolutely sneaks up on you. And yes… I ate it up. The book plays with familiar romantasy tropes but doesn’t always follow the exact path you expect, which kept things interesting.
That being said… the miscommunication trope did drag a bit for me. It felt like it was carrying the plot longer than it needed to, especially when I just wanted things to move. It didn’t ruin the story, but I definitely felt it.
Overall though?? I loved this. The characters, the world, the magic… it all just worked for me.
Okay so this book?? I was hooked. Like immediately invested, emotionally attached, and fully ready to throw hands for these characters. The vibes were immaculate and I devoured this.
Serea is SUCH a strong FMC. She’s sharp, resilient, and refuses to be broken even when she’s literally thrown into a situation meant to destroy her. Watching her grow into her power in a world that doesn’t want her there was easily one of my favorite parts.
The world-building?? Stunning. Layered, immersive, and honestly really clever. I loved the little history snippets at the start of each chapter. At first they just feel like extra context, but by the end everything clicks together in a way that made me want to flip back and reread. That kind of detail just scratches my brain in the best way.
We’ve got dragons, magic, enemies territory, forced marriage, and a weaponmaster love interest who absolutely sneaks up on you. And yes… I ate it up. The book plays with familiar romantasy tropes but doesn’t always follow the exact path you expect, which kept things interesting.
That being said… the miscommunication trope did drag a bit for me. It felt like it was carrying the plot longer than it needed to, especially when I just wanted things to move. It didn’t ruin the story, but I definitely felt it.
Overall though?? I loved this. The characters, the world, the magic… it all just worked for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Page & Vine for the ARC!
This story completely pulled me in. Rihtlond is a rich and detailed world, full of magic and dragon mythology that feels ancient and elemental. The Great Dragon and the magic woven into the land give the story a mythic feel that goes beyond just politics and intrigue.
Serae is a layered and compelling protagonist. Her journey and growth are beautifully written, and the choices she has to make feel meaningful and high stakes. The characters and story hit harder than I expected, and the bonds she forms, whether through alliances, friendships, or love, shape her journey in ways that really matter.
The connection between Serae and Wep is intense and complicated. It’s far more than a typical enemies to lovers story. The tension between them is electric, and the romance feels earned and layered.
The worldbuilding goes beyond magic to culture and politics. As Serae navigates Rihtlond, the customs, alliances, and rivalries make the story feel alive. The plot keeps you on edge, with twists and revelations that constantly raise the stakes. Multiple story threads come together beautifully by the end.
I read this completely captivated. I was invested in the characters, the magic, the mythology, and the dangers they face. This is a story about duty, desire, and discovering who you are while facing impossible choices. I can't wait for the second book!
This story completely pulled me in. Rihtlond is a rich and detailed world, full of magic and dragon mythology that feels ancient and elemental. The Great Dragon and the magic woven into the land give the story a mythic feel that goes beyond just politics and intrigue.
Serae is a layered and compelling protagonist. Her journey and growth are beautifully written, and the choices she has to make feel meaningful and high stakes. The characters and story hit harder than I expected, and the bonds she forms, whether through alliances, friendships, or love, shape her journey in ways that really matter.
The connection between Serae and Wep is intense and complicated. It’s far more than a typical enemies to lovers story. The tension between them is electric, and the romance feels earned and layered.
The worldbuilding goes beyond magic to culture and politics. As Serae navigates Rihtlond, the customs, alliances, and rivalries make the story feel alive. The plot keeps you on edge, with twists and revelations that constantly raise the stakes. Multiple story threads come together beautifully by the end.
I read this completely captivated. I was invested in the characters, the magic, the mythology, and the dangers they face. This is a story about duty, desire, and discovering who you are while facing impossible choices. I can't wait for the second book!
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