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Darkbirch Academy 2: Embers and Secrets
She was stolen by a dragon prince.
Now she has to survive him.
Esme Salem wakes beneath the earth in a palace of obsidian and the heart of the hidden dragon realm of Draethys.
Her captor, Lord Daynthazar, the firstborn prince, claims their blood has been irreversibly bound. By ancient dragon law, that makes her part of his hoard.
Trapped in a kingdom built on fire and fear, Esme must decide fast whether Dayn is her captor, her only chance to survive—or both.
Because in Draethys, dragons need little excuse to kill darkbloods—and something ancient beneath the molten rock is beginning to stir.
Esme wants only one escape. But the bond between her and Dayn is tightening, tensions are rising, and the line between hatred and heat is wearing dangerously thin.
Because in Draethys, even enemies burn.
Meanwhile in Darkbirch, Brynn must deal with another... situation.
Now she has to survive him.
Esme Salem wakes beneath the earth in a palace of obsidian and the heart of the hidden dragon realm of Draethys.
Her captor, Lord Daynthazar, the firstborn prince, claims their blood has been irreversibly bound. By ancient dragon law, that makes her part of his hoard.
Trapped in a kingdom built on fire and fear, Esme must decide fast whether Dayn is her captor, her only chance to survive—or both.
Because in Draethys, dragons need little excuse to kill darkbloods—and something ancient beneath the molten rock is beginning to stir.
Esme wants only one escape. But the bond between her and Dayn is tightening, tensions are rising, and the line between hatred and heat is wearing dangerously thin.
Because in Draethys, even enemies burn.
Meanwhile in Darkbirch, Brynn must deal with another... situation.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2025
384 people are currently reading
1019 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 12, 2025
Do you want to be captured by a dragon shifter who is the first born prince in an underground dragon realm!? Then yes, this read is going to be for you!
This one was even better than the first! I enjoyed this one so much as see more of a connection between Esme and Dayn that pulled me in the best way possible.
I feel like Krista knows how to create a descriptive world building that keeps you engaged and wanting more between the pages. I also enjoyed how the beginning of this story picks right back up where we left off from the beginning of book 1 as you don’t feel lost one bit.
The 2nd book gave you those dark secrets, with beauty, tragedy ready to break out into a storm, and a delicious banter between the characters was something I ate up! I look forward to book 3!
This one was even better than the first! I enjoyed this one so much as see more of a connection between Esme and Dayn that pulled me in the best way possible.
I feel like Krista knows how to create a descriptive world building that keeps you engaged and wanting more between the pages. I also enjoyed how the beginning of this story picks right back up where we left off from the beginning of book 1 as you don’t feel lost one bit.
The 2nd book gave you those dark secrets, with beauty, tragedy ready to break out into a storm, and a delicious banter between the characters was something I ate up! I look forward to book 3!
November 25, 2025
This book was infinitely better than the first one. Some things don’t make much sense at the beginning, but once everything comes together, it’s fantastic. There’s also a really good subplot that supports the main story, at first it feels a bit random, but as you keep reading, you start realizing how everything actually connects in the end.
And if we talk about how Esme and Dayn’s relationship develops? No complaints at all. Their scenes together may be few, but every single one of them is totally worth it. I enjoyed this book so much more, not just because of how well the slow burn was written, but because the story itself was infinitely more engaging and much better told. It never felt repetitive, and I absolutely loved the action.
It’s not the kind of series that makes you go WOW, but it’s definitely a fun one to pick up and enjoy
And if we talk about how Esme and Dayn’s relationship develops? No complaints at all. Their scenes together may be few, but every single one of them is totally worth it. I enjoyed this book so much more, not just because of how well the slow burn was written, but because the story itself was infinitely more engaging and much better told. It never felt repetitive, and I absolutely loved the action.
It’s not the kind of series that makes you go WOW, but it’s definitely a fun one to pick up and enjoy
November 11, 2025
Ok, so I didn’t love this. 🧐
My main issue being the new POV. I think introducing Brynn’s POV was just a waste of time. If it had just been tid-bits, then sure; we got this chick’s full story (and her bf’s). It was such a sudden addition to the plot that I felt zero connection with her character, and I honestly had to skim most of her chapters.
Now, on to our OG mcs! Ms. Esme’s character is consistent and true to her attitude in book one. Yay! I definitely enjoyed her character. She’s not a push-over, but she’s also not so stubborn to the point that I want to claw my eyes out. I like her relationship with Dayne, regardless of the kinda gray area it’s in at the moment.
Alright Dayne, let’s chat Bud. How old are you?
The way he acts is so.. annoying. His character did a whole lot of nothin’ for practically the entire book. The last chapter was cool and all, but he was so lame for most of the book. 😬
Overall, this was definitely a downgrade from book one. I’ll probably try to read the third when it comes out, but it’s definitely not my most anticipated release of 2026.
All respect to the author. She definitely wrote a book! It just didn’t eat. 😋
My main issue being the new POV. I think introducing Brynn’s POV was just a waste of time. If it had just been tid-bits, then sure; we got this chick’s full story (and her bf’s). It was such a sudden addition to the plot that I felt zero connection with her character, and I honestly had to skim most of her chapters.
Now, on to our OG mcs! Ms. Esme’s character is consistent and true to her attitude in book one. Yay! I definitely enjoyed her character. She’s not a push-over, but she’s also not so stubborn to the point that I want to claw my eyes out. I like her relationship with Dayne, regardless of the kinda gray area it’s in at the moment.
Alright Dayne, let’s chat Bud. How old are you?
The way he acts is so.. annoying. His character did a whole lot of nothin’ for practically the entire book. The last chapter was cool and all, but he was so lame for most of the book. 😬
Overall, this was definitely a downgrade from book one. I’ll probably try to read the third when it comes out, but it’s definitely not my most anticipated release of 2026.
All respect to the author. She definitely wrote a book! It just didn’t eat. 😋
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2025
guys i know i am an EArc reader for this book but i genuinely really love it! its so unique and gripping i truly have not read a book like it.
THIS REVIEW HAS SPOILERS YOUVE BEEN WARNED
i actually liked this book more than the first one, the tension and the way krista give us an easy solution for our characters then take it away so mysteriously was perfect. like im rooting for our MC’s and the way for them to survive seems almost impossible.
the way we see the connection between esme and dayn gripped me, as well as the multiple povs throughout the book. especially the way we see esme soften towards dayn from a third pov towards the end of the book
i loved the betrayal and the sudden death of one of the most important characters that really caught me off guard
my favourite thing about kristas writing is her attention to detail and the way that is incorporated into her world building. alsp how she uses certain nervous ticks almost to describe how a character is feeling anxiety or stress.
i also really love her way of writing abilities, like the way the people of dreathys would shift from human to dragon or how esmes abilities developed and how that would affect her internally. Also how esme and dayns powers coexist and mingle together in an almost sexual way
the building tension at the end as the negative gains power and is about to happen is just perfectly written and executed. it makes you so…almost desperate for the next book. like your left staring at a wall like “no you cant leave it there, i need more” and i also really love that about this series and kristas writing specifically.
this book releases tomorrow so if you havent already ADD IT TO YOUR TBR YOU WONT REGRET IT.
THIS REVIEW HAS SPOILERS YOUVE BEEN WARNED
i actually liked this book more than the first one, the tension and the way krista give us an easy solution for our characters then take it away so mysteriously was perfect. like im rooting for our MC’s and the way for them to survive seems almost impossible.
the way we see the connection between esme and dayn gripped me, as well as the multiple povs throughout the book. especially the way we see esme soften towards dayn from a third pov towards the end of the book
i loved the betrayal and the sudden death of one of the most important characters that really caught me off guard
my favourite thing about kristas writing is her attention to detail and the way that is incorporated into her world building. alsp how she uses certain nervous ticks almost to describe how a character is feeling anxiety or stress.
i also really love her way of writing abilities, like the way the people of dreathys would shift from human to dragon or how esmes abilities developed and how that would affect her internally. Also how esme and dayns powers coexist and mingle together in an almost sexual way
the building tension at the end as the negative gains power and is about to happen is just perfectly written and executed. it makes you so…almost desperate for the next book. like your left staring at a wall like “no you cant leave it there, i need more” and i also really love that about this series and kristas writing specifically.
this book releases tomorrow so if you havent already ADD IT TO YOUR TBR YOU WONT REGRET IT.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2025
So I really loved book 1, but this was I was really underwhelmed unfortunately💔
First up, I loved that there was a subplot that you followed alongside the main plot, and eventually they wove together really nicely and things started clicking into place. However, do I think some of Brynne’s POV was very tedious, repetitive & just not needed? Yep. I think at times it slowed the pacing down even more.
The world building was detailed and I loved the writing style for this, I really imagined this amazing dragon underworld. The politics, the rebellion, Dayn’s family & both Dayn and Esme’s adapted power - I was fascinated.
My main issue was the pacing. It felt like not much happened in the first 75% of this book. There was dialogue, court politics, Brynne being forced into training she didn’t want to do, overall it dragged a lot for me. That being said, the last 25% did pick up massively and I hope that book 3 will be a lot more action, a lot more Dayn & Esme (which definitely again fell flat a little in this book, but the dynamics were also complicated with him being her kidnapper now) and a faster paced read.
First up, I loved that there was a subplot that you followed alongside the main plot, and eventually they wove together really nicely and things started clicking into place. However, do I think some of Brynne’s POV was very tedious, repetitive & just not needed? Yep. I think at times it slowed the pacing down even more.
The world building was detailed and I loved the writing style for this, I really imagined this amazing dragon underworld. The politics, the rebellion, Dayn’s family & both Dayn and Esme’s adapted power - I was fascinated.
My main issue was the pacing. It felt like not much happened in the first 75% of this book. There was dialogue, court politics, Brynne being forced into training she didn’t want to do, overall it dragged a lot for me. That being said, the last 25% did pick up massively and I hope that book 3 will be a lot more action, a lot more Dayn & Esme (which definitely again fell flat a little in this book, but the dynamics were also complicated with him being her kidnapper now) and a faster paced read.
November 8, 2025
Im so grateful for receiving the ARC for Book 2!
This time we have 4 povs. A continuation of Esme and Dayn's story and the start of Brynn and Chad's story.
I was so excited when I got to Brynn's pov. She's the underrated and misunderstood Salem sibling. Everyone thinks she is weak but her strength and determination to rescue her sister even if it means that she has to go to an underground realm. I can see something happening between her and Chad but Chad frigging ran away!!!
Esme and Dayn's banter is so funny sometimes. Esme is reckless AF and Dayn wanting to marry her. He definitely didn't try to cancel the wedding. The brothers betrayal was something I didn't expect. But the goodbye kiss between them and them finally yearning for each other the moment they are apart.
Book 3 is going to be the bomb.
This time we have 4 povs. A continuation of Esme and Dayn's story and the start of Brynn and Chad's story.
I was so excited when I got to Brynn's pov. She's the underrated and misunderstood Salem sibling. Everyone thinks she is weak but her strength and determination to rescue her sister even if it means that she has to go to an underground realm. I can see something happening between her and Chad but Chad frigging ran away!!!
Esme and Dayn's banter is so funny sometimes. Esme is reckless AF and Dayn wanting to marry her. He definitely didn't try to cancel the wedding. The brothers betrayal was something I didn't expect. But the goodbye kiss between them and them finally yearning for each other the moment they are apart.
Book 3 is going to be the bomb.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5-Star Review – A Brilliant, Fiery Sequel That Deepens the Bond and Raises the Stakes
Darkbirch Academy 2 by Krista Graves is a captivating continuation of an already outstanding fantasy series. If the first book established this world as one of my top reads of 2025, this sequel ensures it remains there.
This installment takes us deep into Draethys, the secret realm of dragons, where Esme finds herself bound by blood and circumstance to Lord Daynthazar, the firstborn dragon prince. Much of the story unfolds in this dark, dangerous world, and Graves’ vivid writing captures its tension, beauty, and sense of unease perfectly.
The relationship between Esme and Dayn evolves in ways that feel both natural and electric. What begins as a dynamic of power and captivity gradually shifts into something far more complex, a compelling enemies-to-lovers progression filled with heat, restraint, and emotional depth. Their bond is the pulse of this story, and it’s written with a perfect balance of intensity and vulnerability.
Meanwhile, Esme’s sister Brynn takes on a greater role, introducing an entirely new thread involving Chad, whose presence adds intrigue and emotional contrast. The way Graves intertwines both storylines is seamless and expertly paced, creating a layered narrative that keeps readers fully invested.
Graves continues to impress with her ability to blend dark fantasy, emotional complexity, and romantic tension in a way that feels both original and immersive. Darkbirch Academy 2 is an exhilarating read that expands the mythology, deepens the characters, and leaves you desperate for the next installment.
Book three promises to be an unforgettable continuation, and I, for one, cannot wait to return to Draethys.
✨ Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy, dragon lore, and slow-burn romantic tension.
Darkbirch Academy 2 by Krista Graves is a captivating continuation of an already outstanding fantasy series. If the first book established this world as one of my top reads of 2025, this sequel ensures it remains there.
This installment takes us deep into Draethys, the secret realm of dragons, where Esme finds herself bound by blood and circumstance to Lord Daynthazar, the firstborn dragon prince. Much of the story unfolds in this dark, dangerous world, and Graves’ vivid writing captures its tension, beauty, and sense of unease perfectly.
The relationship between Esme and Dayn evolves in ways that feel both natural and electric. What begins as a dynamic of power and captivity gradually shifts into something far more complex, a compelling enemies-to-lovers progression filled with heat, restraint, and emotional depth. Their bond is the pulse of this story, and it’s written with a perfect balance of intensity and vulnerability.
Meanwhile, Esme’s sister Brynn takes on a greater role, introducing an entirely new thread involving Chad, whose presence adds intrigue and emotional contrast. The way Graves intertwines both storylines is seamless and expertly paced, creating a layered narrative that keeps readers fully invested.
Graves continues to impress with her ability to blend dark fantasy, emotional complexity, and romantic tension in a way that feels both original and immersive. Darkbirch Academy 2 is an exhilarating read that expands the mythology, deepens the characters, and leaves you desperate for the next installment.
Book three promises to be an unforgettable continuation, and I, for one, cannot wait to return to Draethys.
✨ Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy, dragon lore, and slow-burn romantic tension.
November 14, 2025
Well friends, I finished it!!!
And OMG it did not disappoint! The second book was just as good— maybe even better-than the first! I devoured these so fast, and that ending?!
How do you even scream in text?!
Now I have to wait for book three... send help.
Seriously, add these to your TBR—they're so worth it!
In book one, a dark-blood witch goes undercover at Clear blood Academy and crosses paths with a professor who’s secretly a dragon. He thinks she’s the key to his freedom… and instead of letting her go, he steals her into the dragon realm.
Book two flips everything: she isn’t a prisoner at all—she’s part of his hoard. He’s the heir to the dragon throne, fiercely protective, and every escape attempt only pulls them closer as their magic intertwines. When she lands herself in trouble with the king, the dragon prince makes a bold claim.
If you want dragons, magic, and slow-burn tension that just keeps building, add this series to your TBR immediately!
November 20, 2025
Ohhhh that ending!! 😱
Dragons, shadow magic and court politics! What more could you want!
I loved book 1, but this book just took it to the next level!
From the word go, you are thrown right in the deepend with the amazing plot and it just got better and better!
I absolutely love Dayn and Esme.... but 2 books of an excruciating slow burn is going to end me 😂 I NEED book 3 to give me more or i may cry 😂
Also having Brynn & Chad's POV was fab... i just know we will get some juicy scenes!
Overall 5 star from me... absolutely loved it and had me gripped from page 1!
Can't wait for the next!
Dragons, shadow magic and court politics! What more could you want!
I loved book 1, but this book just took it to the next level!
From the word go, you are thrown right in the deepend with the amazing plot and it just got better and better!
I absolutely love Dayn and Esme.... but 2 books of an excruciating slow burn is going to end me 😂 I NEED book 3 to give me more or i may cry 😂
Also having Brynn & Chad's POV was fab... i just know we will get some juicy scenes!
Overall 5 star from me... absolutely loved it and had me gripped from page 1!
Can't wait for the next!
December 1, 2025
Yes yes yes!!!!
Deeper dive into the Dragons and dragon lore, new characters, new betrayals, new swoons! I absolutely loved this book!!!
That cliffhanger is brutal and I am dying to get my hands on book 3!!
I loved getting to see our girl being immersed in the dragon world and her continuing to be her sassy self! She was cracking me up!!
And Brynn… I LOVE HER!!!!
I don’t know what to say that won’t spoil the book so just trust me when I say that this book is so freaking good!!! I loved getting this series so much so far!!!
Deeper dive into the Dragons and dragon lore, new characters, new betrayals, new swoons! I absolutely loved this book!!!
That cliffhanger is brutal and I am dying to get my hands on book 3!!
I loved getting to see our girl being immersed in the dragon world and her continuing to be her sassy self! She was cracking me up!!
And Brynn… I LOVE HER!!!!
I don’t know what to say that won’t spoil the book so just trust me when I say that this book is so freaking good!!! I loved getting this series so much so far!!!
December 18, 2025
4⭐️
Tropes
🖤book two
🐉dragon shifters
🖤witches
🐉forced/marriage of convenience
🖤banter
🐉forced proximity
a solid and engaging sequel. I found the start a little hard to get into, mostly because there was a lot of information to absorb all at once, but once I settled in the story became very interesting and I really enjoyed the worldbuilding.
The characters were strong and the plot twists kept things engaging, though I did wish there had been a bit more romance between the main characters. Initially, I wasn’t sold on the switch to the FMC’s sister’s perspective, but after a few chapters I ended up really enjoying it—while it could almost have worked as a novella, I understand why it was included here.
I was slightly confused by the time period at times, especially with some modern references and slang, but that may just be personal preference.
Overall, a good continuation of the series, and I’m definitely excited to see where the next book goes.
A big thank you to the author for an eARC copy!!
Tropes
🖤book two
🐉dragon shifters
🖤witches
🐉forced/marriage of convenience
🖤banter
🐉forced proximity
a solid and engaging sequel. I found the start a little hard to get into, mostly because there was a lot of information to absorb all at once, but once I settled in the story became very interesting and I really enjoyed the worldbuilding.
The characters were strong and the plot twists kept things engaging, though I did wish there had been a bit more romance between the main characters. Initially, I wasn’t sold on the switch to the FMC’s sister’s perspective, but after a few chapters I ended up really enjoying it—while it could almost have worked as a novella, I understand why it was included here.
I was slightly confused by the time period at times, especially with some modern references and slang, but that may just be personal preference.
Overall, a good continuation of the series, and I’m definitely excited to see where the next book goes.
A big thank you to the author for an eARC copy!!
November 20, 2025
Good but wasn’t like dying to finish it. No like gasp worthy moments for me but definitely rooting for the love interests and want more of them!
December 23, 2025
Wait this one was solid. The sisters story annoyed met a fist but then it made sense things still happen a bit quickly but there was more story and surrounding things that were fun
November 18, 2025
I am giving it 5 stars because the second book did not decline in quality and it deserves recognition.
November 10, 2025
Okay, first of all, I have to say I love that this book was released so quickly after the first one! We start right where we left off with Esme waking up in Daerys and finding out that Dayn is actually the Crown Prince of the dragons. I like that this book had a lot more action, and I definitely prefer it to the first. While we didn’t get as much romantic interaction between Dayn and Esme, this installment still felt more fulfilling overall.
There’s clear progress in their relationship too —besides their banter, they’re married, and mated according to dragon customs. I think that’s connected to their blood bond, because when they performed the ritual, it seemed like it did more than just mark their hands/ring. The vows they spoke appeared to bind them even deeper.
We also saw that Dayn is being affected by ingesting Esme’s blood back in book one. When one of the Dragon House leaders threatened him and Esme, Dayn tried to use a paralyzing rune — but his magic shifted into the same Shadow and Fire magic that Esme wields, killing the attacker instead. I think the blood bond between Esme and Dayn didn’t just change her; it changed him too, turning them both into hybrids stronger than either of their races alone. Esme was even able to fight dragons, reflect their fire with her shadowflame, and she and Dayn together powered a force field that normally takes twenty dragons to maintain.
I also liked how we got to see more of the dragon politics, meet Dayn’s family, and learn how the dragons have survived for so long by living underground. It’s sad, though, that most of them have never seen the sky, since they were born below ground. Their isolation has consequences and their wings can’t handle long flights, and their muscles have weakened despite their training. Still, it’s impressive that the dragons managed to rebuild their population to around 100,000.
As for the side story, I’ll admit I was initially unhappy about having to switch to Brynn and Chad’s perspective. I was so invested in Esme and Dayn that any cutaway felt irritating. But I have to admit, Brynn and Chad eventually grew on me. Brynn is seen as the lesser Salem sibling because she’s a scholar and not as magically gifted as her two genius siblings. She’s clearly insecure about it, often calling herself “the lesser Salem” and wondering why any spirits chose her instead of her sister. Still, she was determined to find her sister and succeeded through her intellect.
We also learn that Brynn can contact Helena Salem, someone briefly mentioned in the first book in connection to Dayn , which I found intriguing. Things got even more interesting when it was revealed that Chad is half-demon, half–dark blood. He’s basically a double agent, planted in Darkbirch as a mole for the Clearbloods while secretly hunting for the one who killed his mother.
Back to the main plot: I initially thought Byzu was the sibling leading the dragon revolution, but it turned out he was working with the king to uncover which of his sons actually was. Shockingly, it was Anees behind it all. We found out in the worst way — Dayn, thinking Anees was a trusted brother, confided in him about the rebellion and suggested telling their father. Anees then locked Dayn in a flooded basement so no one could find him, murdered their father, and framed Dayn for the crime.
Eventually, when both sides converged in Daerys, Brynn and Chad reunited with Esme and Dayn. Dayn recognized Chad immediately as the Headmaster’s former “pet project,” and Chad fled. Dayn prepared to claim his right as king and told Esme to take her sister and run, not wanting her caught in the danger. Of course, she refused, but he broke the ward so she could use her blood magic and block her from following ho,. Stubborn as always, she stayed in the Belladorium — the dragons’ training grounds — with her sister.
Dayn, realizing he’d been set up, left to find Esme with his one truly trusted brother, leaving an ally in the city. Meanwhile, Chad discovered the Chancellor had betrayed him, so he chopped off his own arm to remove a cursed ring and set off to find Brynn. Now, the bigger threat looms: it’s not the dragons who will burn the world to the ground — it’s the demons. And Chad intends to stop that.
Plus the little warning from Helena that Dayn and Esme must complete their union to prevent what is happeninh
Fav Quotes:
When a dragon’s blood is willingly consumed, it forges a claim. It rewrites certain… proprietary codes in the recipient’s essence. You drank from me, Esme. You are, by laws far older than your coven, now part of my hoard.”
A hoard is more than treasure. It is an extension of our being, a collection of all that we deem valuable, powerful, or rare. You, Ms. Salem, are all three. Congratulations on the promotion.”
I look up, and holy crap—Chad's standing over me looking like he wandered straight out of a nightmare coloring book..
Helena's form brightens. “Only you two together can prevent what comes. Only you and Dayn.” “But why us? It makes no sense.” “You must complete your union. Then, it will.”
There’s clear progress in their relationship too —besides their banter, they’re married, and mated according to dragon customs. I think that’s connected to their blood bond, because when they performed the ritual, it seemed like it did more than just mark their hands/ring. The vows they spoke appeared to bind them even deeper.
We also saw that Dayn is being affected by ingesting Esme’s blood back in book one. When one of the Dragon House leaders threatened him and Esme, Dayn tried to use a paralyzing rune — but his magic shifted into the same Shadow and Fire magic that Esme wields, killing the attacker instead. I think the blood bond between Esme and Dayn didn’t just change her; it changed him too, turning them both into hybrids stronger than either of their races alone. Esme was even able to fight dragons, reflect their fire with her shadowflame, and she and Dayn together powered a force field that normally takes twenty dragons to maintain.
I also liked how we got to see more of the dragon politics, meet Dayn’s family, and learn how the dragons have survived for so long by living underground. It’s sad, though, that most of them have never seen the sky, since they were born below ground. Their isolation has consequences and their wings can’t handle long flights, and their muscles have weakened despite their training. Still, it’s impressive that the dragons managed to rebuild their population to around 100,000.
As for the side story, I’ll admit I was initially unhappy about having to switch to Brynn and Chad’s perspective. I was so invested in Esme and Dayn that any cutaway felt irritating. But I have to admit, Brynn and Chad eventually grew on me. Brynn is seen as the lesser Salem sibling because she’s a scholar and not as magically gifted as her two genius siblings. She’s clearly insecure about it, often calling herself “the lesser Salem” and wondering why any spirits chose her instead of her sister. Still, she was determined to find her sister and succeeded through her intellect.
We also learn that Brynn can contact Helena Salem, someone briefly mentioned in the first book in connection to Dayn , which I found intriguing. Things got even more interesting when it was revealed that Chad is half-demon, half–dark blood. He’s basically a double agent, planted in Darkbirch as a mole for the Clearbloods while secretly hunting for the one who killed his mother.
Back to the main plot: I initially thought Byzu was the sibling leading the dragon revolution, but it turned out he was working with the king to uncover which of his sons actually was. Shockingly, it was Anees behind it all. We found out in the worst way — Dayn, thinking Anees was a trusted brother, confided in him about the rebellion and suggested telling their father. Anees then locked Dayn in a flooded basement so no one could find him, murdered their father, and framed Dayn for the crime.
Eventually, when both sides converged in Daerys, Brynn and Chad reunited with Esme and Dayn. Dayn recognized Chad immediately as the Headmaster’s former “pet project,” and Chad fled. Dayn prepared to claim his right as king and told Esme to take her sister and run, not wanting her caught in the danger. Of course, she refused, but he broke the ward so she could use her blood magic and block her from following ho,. Stubborn as always, she stayed in the Belladorium — the dragons’ training grounds — with her sister.
Dayn, realizing he’d been set up, left to find Esme with his one truly trusted brother, leaving an ally in the city. Meanwhile, Chad discovered the Chancellor had betrayed him, so he chopped off his own arm to remove a cursed ring and set off to find Brynn. Now, the bigger threat looms: it’s not the dragons who will burn the world to the ground — it’s the demons. And Chad intends to stop that.
Plus the little warning from Helena that Dayn and Esme must complete their union to prevent what is happeninh
Fav Quotes:
When a dragon’s blood is willingly consumed, it forges a claim. It rewrites certain… proprietary codes in the recipient’s essence. You drank from me, Esme. You are, by laws far older than your coven, now part of my hoard.”
A hoard is more than treasure. It is an extension of our being, a collection of all that we deem valuable, powerful, or rare. You, Ms. Salem, are all three. Congratulations on the promotion.”
I look up, and holy crap—Chad's standing over me looking like he wandered straight out of a nightmare coloring book..
Helena's form brightens. “Only you two together can prevent what comes. Only you and Dayn.” “But why us? It makes no sense.” “You must complete your union. Then, it will.”
December 6, 2025
"History is a weapon, Esme. It's forged by the victors to justify their bloodshed. ✨
3/5 🌟 1/5 🌶️
🩸Forced proximity
🐉 Dragon shifter / blood witch
🩸Slow Burn and yearning
🐉 Betrayal
🖤 : Book 2 is just as good as book one. Dayn’s yearning for our girl Esme doesn’t end. We get to feel the tension between the two characters grow stronger. God it’s so intense and I cannot wait for it to pop off. Book 2 also provides more political rebellions which I love as a sub-plot. I like the creative approach to the magical powers in the book. The “dark birch” witches use ancestral magic and blood magic. Which is unique and really interesting. Also there’s dragon shifters so that’s always a plus.
📚: SPOILERS IF YOU DIDN’T READ BOOK ONE. Esme is stolen by Prince Daynthazar and brought to Draethys, the dragon kingdom, where she's told their blood is bound, making her his property by dragon law. Esme must survive the dangerous, fiery world of dragons, facing ancient threats stirring beneath the molten rock and navigating complex court politics. Esme & Dayn are navigating their forced proximity fuels a fiery, hate-to-love dynamic, with Esme wanting escape and Dayn asserting his claim, while their bond tightens. We also get new POVs in this book. The narrative also includes dual POV chapters from Brynn back at Darkbirch, dealing with her own "situations" amidst the larger conflict.the book delves deeper into the history of the Blood Wars, revealing crucial lore about dragon hierarchies and traditions.
3/5 🌟 1/5 🌶️
🩸Forced proximity
🐉 Dragon shifter / blood witch
🩸Slow Burn and yearning
🐉 Betrayal
🖤 : Book 2 is just as good as book one. Dayn’s yearning for our girl Esme doesn’t end. We get to feel the tension between the two characters grow stronger. God it’s so intense and I cannot wait for it to pop off. Book 2 also provides more political rebellions which I love as a sub-plot. I like the creative approach to the magical powers in the book. The “dark birch” witches use ancestral magic and blood magic. Which is unique and really interesting. Also there’s dragon shifters so that’s always a plus.
📚: SPOILERS IF YOU DIDN’T READ BOOK ONE. Esme is stolen by Prince Daynthazar and brought to Draethys, the dragon kingdom, where she's told their blood is bound, making her his property by dragon law. Esme must survive the dangerous, fiery world of dragons, facing ancient threats stirring beneath the molten rock and navigating complex court politics. Esme & Dayn are navigating their forced proximity fuels a fiery, hate-to-love dynamic, with Esme wanting escape and Dayn asserting his claim, while their bond tightens. We also get new POVs in this book. The narrative also includes dual POV chapters from Brynn back at Darkbirch, dealing with her own "situations" amidst the larger conflict.the book delves deeper into the history of the Blood Wars, revealing crucial lore about dragon hierarchies and traditions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
I kindly received an eARC of the second book in this series, and having loved book one, I couldn’t wait to dive in — it did not disappoint.
This is true enemies to lovers at its best! The tension is constant, the “will they, won’t they” dynamic is deliciously frustrating, and you can really feel how much the FMC and MMC loathe each other while struggling to make sense of their feelings.
We’ve got marriage of convenience, betrayal, political intrigue, blood magic, and dragons — all cleverly woven together into a compelling story. The worldbuilding is fantastic, with clear distinctions between the different factions: clear bloods, dark bloods, and dragons, all at war with one another. I especially loved how the author explores the struggles of each group in a way that mirrors real-world conflicts and social issues, just told through a fantasy lens. It made it easy to empathize with and understand the characters on a deeper level.
This book also introduces multiple POVs, which I always enjoy. My only small criticism is that the POVs felt a bit unevenly spaced. The first 40% focuses solely on the FMC and MMC, and then — suddenly — we get new perspectives from two side characters. It felt a little abrupt, and I would have preferred if the multiple POVs had been introduced earlier so it didn’t feel like two separate stories. That said, the pacing smooths out toward the end, and the POV switches flow much better as the story builds to its climax.
If I had one other small critique, it would be that I wished some scenes were a bit more in-depth — particularly the blood magic ones. Those moments were so intriguing, and I would have loved for the author to explore that aspect of the world even further.
Overall, this was a fantastic follow-up to book one, and I gave it a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for book three!
This is true enemies to lovers at its best! The tension is constant, the “will they, won’t they” dynamic is deliciously frustrating, and you can really feel how much the FMC and MMC loathe each other while struggling to make sense of their feelings.
We’ve got marriage of convenience, betrayal, political intrigue, blood magic, and dragons — all cleverly woven together into a compelling story. The worldbuilding is fantastic, with clear distinctions between the different factions: clear bloods, dark bloods, and dragons, all at war with one another. I especially loved how the author explores the struggles of each group in a way that mirrors real-world conflicts and social issues, just told through a fantasy lens. It made it easy to empathize with and understand the characters on a deeper level.
This book also introduces multiple POVs, which I always enjoy. My only small criticism is that the POVs felt a bit unevenly spaced. The first 40% focuses solely on the FMC and MMC, and then — suddenly — we get new perspectives from two side characters. It felt a little abrupt, and I would have preferred if the multiple POVs had been introduced earlier so it didn’t feel like two separate stories. That said, the pacing smooths out toward the end, and the POV switches flow much better as the story builds to its climax.
If I had one other small critique, it would be that I wished some scenes were a bit more in-depth — particularly the blood magic ones. Those moments were so intriguing, and I would have loved for the author to explore that aspect of the world even further.
Overall, this was a fantastic follow-up to book one, and I gave it a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for book three!
December 21, 2025
“History is a weapon, Esme. It’s forged by the victors to justify their bloodshed.
The epilogue of book 1, introduces us to a brand new character, and when I started this, I wasn't a massive fan of having the attention diverted from the characters I've already got to know, but a few chapters in to their POV, and I was kinda hooked on them too. Brynn and Chad were great additions to the story and helped to give it a more rounded feeling.
I still feel like the book could have been longer, there are times when it seems we've lost out on a weeks' worth of story, and I get it, you need to keep the plot going and sometimes I do read books where I think some of the lesser details of the plot could just be skipped, with this though I actually wanted more. Maybe I'm just used to chunky fantasy books at this point.
These two books helped me out of a book slump and now I have to wait until Feb next year to see what happens! Not as long a wait as I'm used to seeing with some series (ahem Sarah J Maas), but still not fair when it ends on a cliffhanger!
⭐⭐⭐.5/5 stars
The epilogue of book 1, introduces us to a brand new character, and when I started this, I wasn't a massive fan of having the attention diverted from the characters I've already got to know, but a few chapters in to their POV, and I was kinda hooked on them too. Brynn and Chad were great additions to the story and helped to give it a more rounded feeling.
I still feel like the book could have been longer, there are times when it seems we've lost out on a weeks' worth of story, and I get it, you need to keep the plot going and sometimes I do read books where I think some of the lesser details of the plot could just be skipped, with this though I actually wanted more. Maybe I'm just used to chunky fantasy books at this point.
These two books helped me out of a book slump and now I have to wait until Feb next year to see what happens! Not as long a wait as I'm used to seeing with some series (ahem Sarah J Maas), but still not fair when it ends on a cliffhanger!
⭐⭐⭐.5/5 stars
November 14, 2025
This was a great sequel that was quite possibly better than the first!
There was a lot of action in this book, and it kept me wanting to read more. I love Esme and Dayn together - their chemistry is off the charts! I must say, if you're going to get yourself kidnapped, being kidnapped by a dragon prince is the way to go! Dayn is a little scary, but also very protective and definitely swoon-worthy.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the dragons and Esme, and the difference between everyone's perspective of the past as each group villainizes the other. Esme's training was fun and exciting to read, and I loved the reactions of the dragons when they saw just how powerful her magic was.
It was interesting having more of Brynn's POV as well. The Salem girls are formidable, witty and badass in their own ways. I can't wait to see what book three brings!
There was a lot of action in this book, and it kept me wanting to read more. I love Esme and Dayn together - their chemistry is off the charts! I must say, if you're going to get yourself kidnapped, being kidnapped by a dragon prince is the way to go! Dayn is a little scary, but also very protective and definitely swoon-worthy.
I enjoyed the dynamic between the dragons and Esme, and the difference between everyone's perspective of the past as each group villainizes the other. Esme's training was fun and exciting to read, and I loved the reactions of the dragons when they saw just how powerful her magic was.
It was interesting having more of Brynn's POV as well. The Salem girls are formidable, witty and badass in their own ways. I can't wait to see what book three brings!
December 5, 2025
This wasn’t a bad read, but definitely nothing gasp worthy either. I was kind of thrown off a little by the POVs of her sister Brynn, and her (very obvious) future love interest. It just didn’t make any sense and yeah technically they found Esme, but I don’t think she needed to be found. Does that make sense? So I feel like that particular line to the story was just unnecessary and just a way to introduce another potential couple. That being said, the banter between Brynn and Chad did make me chuckle a few times.
That was another thing, there is very clearly some feelings there between Esme and Dayn, but where was the tension?!?!?! I neeeeed to feel their want and need and it just wasn’t there.
It’s a fairly short book and like I said, an okay read and It does seem like she set up for some pretty cool things in the next book. I just hope her writing delivers.
That was another thing, there is very clearly some feelings there between Esme and Dayn, but where was the tension?!?!?! I neeeeed to feel their want and need and it just wasn’t there.
It’s a fairly short book and like I said, an okay read and It does seem like she set up for some pretty cool things in the next book. I just hope her writing delivers.
January 15, 2026
⭐️4.7 - the story is political, with betrayals, and historical. there is a revolution coming that will cause bloodshed and war. with plot twists and many new important characters. the plot itself is very simple, it's just about every kin wanting whats best for them and their people. so literally very straight forward and easy to understand. worldbuilding is better in this book, since it introduces new places and ancient rules. characters add up as the story progress. the main characters tho, it leads to nowhere. maybe i get it now, it is a slow burn. tension is nowhere to be seen, i mean maybe here and there. but mostly self character development. like they're trying to understand themselves and not actually working on the relationship between them.
i describe this book like the game of thrones. it's just wars and dragons. it didnt even involves witches eventho the FMC is a witch. like it really didnt mention much about the witch part, majority of the time it introduces more about the dragon customs.
writing style is okay, standard, i like it. its not like super mindblowing, but it does have a lot of fancy and old english vocab which i notice that im struggling to understand.
not suitable for people who doesnt like politics, though i ensure this book is so fun. there are multiple povs to describe whats happening in both worlds at the same time. if you dont like skippng through different povs every now and then maybe its not for u. it ends on a cliffhanger tho. overall i recommend
i describe this book like the game of thrones. it's just wars and dragons. it didnt even involves witches eventho the FMC is a witch. like it really didnt mention much about the witch part, majority of the time it introduces more about the dragon customs.
writing style is okay, standard, i like it. its not like super mindblowing, but it does have a lot of fancy and old english vocab which i notice that im struggling to understand.
not suitable for people who doesnt like politics, though i ensure this book is so fun. there are multiple povs to describe whats happening in both worlds at the same time. if you dont like skippng through different povs every now and then maybe its not for u. it ends on a cliffhanger tho. overall i recommend
November 10, 2025
I was honoured to received another Arc from this Author for book 2.
I have been dying to continue the story to see what happened next.
And again it is the same result, I have finished the book and need to know asap what happens next. Krista definitley likes her cliff hangers :)
The slow burn in this series is done perfectly. I was constantley on edge waiting to see what was going to happen between Esme and Dayn.
I love that we have another couple after coming in now with both of their POVs also.
I am so so looking forward to the third one.
If you like Dragons, witches, dark acadamia, I would definitley recommend this series :)
I have been dying to continue the story to see what happened next.
And again it is the same result, I have finished the book and need to know asap what happens next. Krista definitley likes her cliff hangers :)
The slow burn in this series is done perfectly. I was constantley on edge waiting to see what was going to happen between Esme and Dayn.
I love that we have another couple after coming in now with both of their POVs also.
I am so so looking forward to the third one.
If you like Dragons, witches, dark acadamia, I would definitley recommend this series :)
November 22, 2025
The addition of Brynn’s POV felt extremely sudden, and like others have mentioned, it left me feeling disconnected from her character. There was a real opportunity to explore the theme of a younger sibling living in the shadows of their older sibling, but it was glossed over. The potential for meaningful character development was there, yet we only ever got the slightest glimpse of it.
The ending also felt incredibly abrupt—almost as if the author simply stopped mid-thought and decided the story was complete. I genuinely wanted to love this installment, but with how rushed and unfinished it felt, I’m not confident I’ll be returning for the third book when it releases in February.
The ending also felt incredibly abrupt—almost as if the author simply stopped mid-thought and decided the story was complete. I genuinely wanted to love this installment, but with how rushed and unfinished it felt, I’m not confident I’ll be returning for the third book when it releases in February.
November 28, 2025
tik tok has become the movie trailers for books...you know when the trailer is so good you go and watch the movie ...and all the action was actually the trailer? this is what this book is.
We have a fmc that the reader can't really like from the first book and it doesn't get any better and a mmc who tell the fmc nothing and they hardly spend time together and the only spicy time in the book he doesn't even really do anything...Then we have the fmc's sister and her love interest also with their separate story and their pov...the sister is exactly written like the fmc so you dont like her too...
I am tired of tik tok lying about books...I would not recommend waisting time on a copy paste books with no soul...why is it that authors are getting away writting books like this?
We have a fmc that the reader can't really like from the first book and it doesn't get any better and a mmc who tell the fmc nothing and they hardly spend time together and the only spicy time in the book he doesn't even really do anything...Then we have the fmc's sister and her love interest also with their separate story and their pov...the sister is exactly written like the fmc so you dont like her too...
I am tired of tik tok lying about books...I would not recommend waisting time on a copy paste books with no soul...why is it that authors are getting away writting books like this?
November 10, 2025
Awesome continuation of the story. I was literally waiting to the day for this book to come out. I enjoyed the first one more than I thought I would. I don’t like to give less than a five star review unless I really just don’t like the book and hard a hard time finishing it. But, from a romance perspective, I do wish there was more building when it came to Esme and Dayn. You can definitely see their feelings growing, but considering the end of the story, I felt like I was missing apart of how/when their love became that strong. But maybe this will be discussed/explained in the third book. Either way, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely continue reading the series.
November 16, 2025
This book was amazing! After a good, but patchy book one I was hesitant. Book two picked up right where book one ended but even stronger! Our author strengthened the writing by adding more personality and insights into each of our characters which led to a more impactful reading. It was funny, fast and jam packed with new magic systems and twists that you rarely see these days. I am very eager for book three and to see our story and writing progress even more!
November 18, 2025
Book 3 for me is like LIFE SUPPORT
This book had to be even better than the first one. The relationship between Dayn and Esme had me biting off every single finger nail I have. The plot twist had me on the edge of my seat for the last 24 hours I could not fathom what was going to happen. Miss Graves, please release book 3 as soon as possible because I don’t know how much longer I can last without my two babies Dayn and Esme😩
This book had to be even better than the first one. The relationship between Dayn and Esme had me biting off every single finger nail I have. The plot twist had me on the edge of my seat for the last 24 hours I could not fathom what was going to happen. Miss Graves, please release book 3 as soon as possible because I don’t know how much longer I can last without my two babies Dayn and Esme😩
December 24, 2025
Ooooh let’s talk about dark blood, bold, no thinking, risk taking fmc and a hot dragon shifting ex professor prisoner mmc.
I agree with the other reviews that this book was much better than the first. It had slight world building and change of scenery, a little more slow burn enemies to lovers vibes.
I’m a heavy mood reader so I was and still am
I’m the mood for these kinda of books.
Ready for the next one
I agree with the other reviews that this book was much better than the first. It had slight world building and change of scenery, a little more slow burn enemies to lovers vibes.
I’m a heavy mood reader so I was and still am
I’m the mood for these kinda of books.
Ready for the next one
December 25, 2025
This one was better than the first one. The plot didn't always make sense. Esme never really confronted Dayn about her kidnapping or what was going on. Dayn's hot and cold demeanor got old real quick. Wasn't looking forward to Brynn's storyline, but loved it in the end. She's awesome and funny. I'm looking forward to seeing what powers lie within her. I hope she and Chad make up.
The ending was amazing, didn't see the betrayel coming. I'm very curious to know how the story continues.
The ending was amazing, didn't see the betrayel coming. I'm very curious to know how the story continues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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