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The Secrets of Ormdale #3
Castle of the Winds
At Midsummer’s Eve, the Red Dragon will choose his bride.
Following this mysterious invitation, Edith sets off on a quest to the Castle of the Winds to find a lost family of dragon keepers in the mountains of Wild Wales. But all is not as it seems. Edith must guard her own hidden power, or she might not return to her friends in Ormdale—including the man who has come to love her. Will Edith make an alliance with the legendary Red Dragon of her dreams to safeguard her ancestral charge, or will she lose everything she has tried to protect?
Book 3 of The Secrets of Ormdale is a breathtaking adventure that will take Edith to exhilarating new heights…and deeper into peril than ever before.
Following this mysterious invitation, Edith sets off on a quest to the Castle of the Winds to find a lost family of dragon keepers in the mountains of Wild Wales. But all is not as it seems. Edith must guard her own hidden power, or she might not return to her friends in Ormdale—including the man who has come to love her. Will Edith make an alliance with the legendary Red Dragon of her dreams to safeguard her ancestral charge, or will she lose everything she has tried to protect?
Book 3 of The Secrets of Ormdale is a breathtaking adventure that will take Edith to exhilarating new heights…and deeper into peril than ever before.
260 pages, Paperback
First published April 14, 2024
95 people are currently reading
800 people want to read
About the author
Christina Baehr
8 books716 followersI live in wild and cosy Tasmania, Australia, and I write intrepid historical heroines who discover the world is more wondrous than they previously imagined.
I'm also a big reader of books both old and new, so here's a quick heads up about my review policy:
1. If you are a living author, as another living author I will not be giving you a critical review, because I know writing books is hard! Reading mean reviews makes everything harder.
2. If you are dead, the gloves are off!
3. Absence of stars may mean ambivalence as to quality, it may also mean I don't feel Aristotle needs my star rating.
4. Five stars may not mean I think the book is perfect. It can mean that I deeply enjoyed the book despite inevitable flaws, or that I consider it an excellently-crafted example in its genre (even if the genre is not my favourite). I may also be more generous with star ratings to living authors who need encouragement. E.M Forster won't mind if I give him 4 stars (see point 2).
6. I may occasionally flag major content I think will be distressing to people who follow my reviews, but I don't do granular content/trigger warnings, because I read books as whole works of art, and don't note the swears etc as I go. My brain is tired enough as it is. So please do look elsewhere if you want to know every single thing that's in the book beforehand.
I'm also a big reader of books both old and new, so here's a quick heads up about my review policy:
1. If you are a living author, as another living author I will not be giving you a critical review, because I know writing books is hard! Reading mean reviews makes everything harder.
2. If you are dead, the gloves are off!
3. Absence of stars may mean ambivalence as to quality, it may also mean I don't feel Aristotle needs my star rating.
4. Five stars may not mean I think the book is perfect. It can mean that I deeply enjoyed the book despite inevitable flaws, or that I consider it an excellently-crafted example in its genre (even if the genre is not my favourite). I may also be more generous with star ratings to living authors who need encouragement. E.M Forster won't mind if I give him 4 stars (see point 2).
6. I may occasionally flag major content I think will be distressing to people who follow my reviews, but I don't do granular content/trigger warnings, because I read books as whole works of art, and don't note the swears etc as I go. My brain is tired enough as it is. So please do look elsewhere if you want to know every single thing that's in the book beforehand.
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April 4, 2024I’m so excited to share Edith’s adventure in the Welsh mountains. If DRAKE HALL leans cosy, CASTLE OF THE WINDS leans adventurous!
I get to share my love of Wales and some historical Welsh dragon lore that really delights me. One of Edith’s dreams comes true and that part was just sheer joy to write.
And is there such a thing as a cosy cliffhanger? A cliffhanger plus tea? If not, there is now.
I get to share my love of Wales and some historical Welsh dragon lore that really delights me. One of Edith’s dreams comes true and that part was just sheer joy to write.
And is there such a thing as a cosy cliffhanger? A cliffhanger plus tea? If not, there is now.
October 31, 2024
4 stars ✨
I’ve been so excited to get to this third book because this series has completely enthralled me—so much so that I’ve reread (listened to) the audiobooks of the first two books within a year of reading them for the first time (something I’ve never done before).
I truly adore Edith and her personality! The vocabulary she uses and the examples given are just perfect. I honestly found myself gasping at different things in this book and commenting on the brilliance of the author at said reveals. This series is such a gem and is genius at the pacing, writing style, and the overall setting of the world.
I actually listened to this one as I read it via that Kindle-Audible thing which was my first time to do that and it was neat. I felt a little spoiled, haha!
But ahh, that cliffhanger! For those who told me there was one—bless you—and those who said it wasn’t that bad—well, I no longer trust you (slightly kidding) and am so glad I have the next book already. I am going to have to force myself to read another book next so that I can try to keep the events in this book and the next in the series separate in my mind.
Main Content-
At the very beginning of the book, the author shares this:
“If you are someone who does not like to be surprised by content, read the following warning. Otherwise, enjoy the surprises! Content warnings: In this adventure, Edith encounters threats of imprisonment and physical peril. A child is endangered, and a rather nasty man is injured. There is also a short discussion of a tragic assault in Lily’s past (off-page).” Which summarizes it well, as always, though, I will share my content notes below.
Edith is a clergyman’s daughter and this is brought up quite often with her viewpoint and values being shaped by it; A few Scriptures are referenced; Edith and another man discuss/debate his views about religion, sin, and his belief of the lack of religion needed for his group/cult as it hinders people from progress in their Utopia (also called their “New Jerusalem”) (he also quotes his beliefs as if it were the Holy Writ) a handful of times (Edith wonders if he is trying to do some sort of rationalist paganism); Edith writes under a pen name because she knows most of her father’s parishioners won’t like it; A few songs & the Doxology are sung (some are written out); Talks about God & Christian values; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of churches/chapels, church going, & sermons; A few mentions of praying & prayers; A couple mentions of thanking God; A couple mentions of Jews; A mention of a saint.
References to & mentions of Greek mythology characters; Mentions of making a place holy; Mentions of fairies & such (looked upon as stories); A mention of something looking like a prehistoric monster; A mention of a young woman enjoying being worshiped by a young man.
Being tied-up, Held captive, Fighting, & a close-call with a crossbow, Injuries, & Pain (up to a few sentences); Having to lie to someone for their safety; Seeing animals (rabbits and sheep) killed for and eaten by dragons (Edith sees a rabbit brutally killed and says it’s one of the most terrifying things she’s ever seen); A couple slips of alcohol (once at a party in a tradition and once after a great shock).
No major language is written on-page, but there’s a couple oaths said (not written); “Heavens” and “Good heavens” are said; a single “Good God” and “God knows” are said once by someone who doesn’t seem to have a faith.
Mentions of deaths & near-deaths (because of dragon venom, including children); Mentions of maidens and children being sacrificed to dragons in olden days; Mentions of anarchists and bombs; Mentions of fights, fighting, & injuries; Mentions of crossbows, darts, & aiming them at others; Mentions of hostages & being held hostage; Mentions of threats & being threatened; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of dragons eating cows, sheep, & rabbits (we see this on-page as well, up to a few sentences); Mentions of lies & lying; A handful of mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of a laboratory experiment going wrong and burning someone badly; A few mentions of places and people being conquered and oppressed; A mention of a lake no longer looking like a place to drown one’s self; A mention of smoking.
2 hand kisses,
Touches, Dancing, Nearness, & Noticing (up to a couple sentences); Blushes; Edith comments on the most beautiful man she’s ever seen (but is not attracted to him); A young woman distracts a guard by kissing him (implied as her hair is untidy and she is pinker than normal); A man says he would never force a woman to bear him a child as he wouldn’t hurt a woman; A man asks Edith if she’s been hurt in a way that needs a doctor.
*Spoilers regarding Lily’s assault*
Mentions of a man convincing a young woman that marriage is a sham and has a child with her, but never marries her; Mentions of affairs, mistresses, illegitimate children, & bearing a man a child (with the mother possibly abandoning the child); Mentions of dragon breeding & the mating season; Mentions of flirting, flirts, & blushes; Mentions of chaperones & their duty to protect their charges; A mention of bigamy; A mention of a young woman’s eyes lingering too long on a man’s linen shirt (when he is exercising); A mention in the back pages content about a story about dragons bothering lactating women.
I’ve been so excited to get to this third book because this series has completely enthralled me—so much so that I’ve reread (listened to) the audiobooks of the first two books within a year of reading them for the first time (something I’ve never done before).
I truly adore Edith and her personality! The vocabulary she uses and the examples given are just perfect. I honestly found myself gasping at different things in this book and commenting on the brilliance of the author at said reveals. This series is such a gem and is genius at the pacing, writing style, and the overall setting of the world.
I actually listened to this one as I read it via that Kindle-Audible thing which was my first time to do that and it was neat. I felt a little spoiled, haha!
But ahh, that cliffhanger! For those who told me there was one—bless you—and those who said it wasn’t that bad—well, I no longer trust you (slightly kidding) and am so glad I have the next book already. I am going to have to force myself to read another book next so that I can try to keep the events in this book and the next in the series separate in my mind.
Main Content-
At the very beginning of the book, the author shares this:
“If you are someone who does not like to be surprised by content, read the following warning. Otherwise, enjoy the surprises! Content warnings: In this adventure, Edith encounters threats of imprisonment and physical peril. A child is endangered, and a rather nasty man is injured. There is also a short discussion of a tragic assault in Lily’s past (off-page).” Which summarizes it well, as always, though, I will share my content notes below.
Edith is a clergyman’s daughter and this is brought up quite often with her viewpoint and values being shaped by it; A few Scriptures are referenced; Edith and another man discuss/debate his views about religion, sin, and his belief of the lack of religion needed for his group/cult as it hinders people from progress in their Utopia (also called their “New Jerusalem”) (he also quotes his beliefs as if it were the Holy Writ) a handful of times (Edith wonders if he is trying to do some sort of rationalist paganism); Edith writes under a pen name because she knows most of her father’s parishioners won’t like it; A few songs & the Doxology are sung (some are written out); Talks about God & Christian values; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of those & events in the Bible; Mentions of churches/chapels, church going, & sermons; A few mentions of praying & prayers; A couple mentions of thanking God; A couple mentions of Jews; A mention of a saint.
References to & mentions of Greek mythology characters; Mentions of making a place holy; Mentions of fairies & such (looked upon as stories); A mention of something looking like a prehistoric monster; A mention of a young woman enjoying being worshiped by a young man.
Being tied-up, Held captive, Fighting, & a close-call with a crossbow, Injuries, & Pain (up to a few sentences); Having to lie to someone for their safety; Seeing animals (rabbits and sheep) killed for and eaten by dragons (Edith sees a rabbit brutally killed and says it’s one of the most terrifying things she’s ever seen); A couple slips of alcohol (once at a party in a tradition and once after a great shock).
No major language is written on-page, but there’s a couple oaths said (not written); “Heavens” and “Good heavens” are said; a single “Good God” and “God knows” are said once by someone who doesn’t seem to have a faith.
Mentions of deaths & near-deaths (because of dragon venom, including children); Mentions of maidens and children being sacrificed to dragons in olden days; Mentions of anarchists and bombs; Mentions of fights, fighting, & injuries; Mentions of crossbows, darts, & aiming them at others; Mentions of hostages & being held hostage; Mentions of threats & being threatened; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of dragons eating cows, sheep, & rabbits (we see this on-page as well, up to a few sentences); Mentions of lies & lying; A handful of mentions of alcohol & drinking; A few mentions of a laboratory experiment going wrong and burning someone badly; A few mentions of places and people being conquered and oppressed; A mention of a lake no longer looking like a place to drown one’s self; A mention of smoking.
2 hand kisses,
Touches, Dancing, Nearness, & Noticing (up to a couple sentences); Blushes; Edith comments on the most beautiful man she’s ever seen (but is not attracted to him); A young woman distracts a guard by kissing him (implied as her hair is untidy and she is pinker than normal); A man says he would never force a woman to bear him a child as he wouldn’t hurt a woman; A man asks Edith if she’s been hurt in a way that needs a doctor.
*Spoilers regarding Lily’s assault*
Mentions of a man convincing a young woman that marriage is a sham and has a child with her, but never marries her; Mentions of affairs, mistresses, illegitimate children, & bearing a man a child (with the mother possibly abandoning the child); Mentions of dragon breeding & the mating season; Mentions of flirting, flirts, & blushes; Mentions of chaperones & their duty to protect their charges; A mention of bigamy; A mention of a young woman’s eyes lingering too long on a man’s linen shirt (when he is exercising); A mention in the back pages content about a story about dragons bothering lactating women.
August 14, 2024
I think this was my favorite so far. On to The City of Serpents.
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July 2, 2025****Skimmed and dumped due to STRONG dislike of the Idiot Main Character****
Oh boy I hated this. I wish I could love this series but I just can’t and will not be continuing it.
Edith is the biggest idiot on the planet and though she had a brain in the first two books she conveniently left it in England when she went to Wales because it’s nowhere to be found in this one. Literally Simon tells her at one point they are unarmed against people who wish to trap them where they’re at and that they should leave, and she basically pats him on the head and says, “Nothing bad will happen to me, I’m the Main Female Character! Silly man for worrying, just sit in a corner and wait for my next command.” GRRRRR, I wanted to throw her off a cliff!!!!! No, Edith, nothing did happen to you, it happened to someone else in your freaking place, you insufferable, self righteous cow! UGH, I hate her!!!!!!
And Simon is just her yes man who always quietly waits for her and loves her no matter what and I’m just like WHY?! She’s awful! He literally should just ditch all the women in his life and run away; I’m serious, NONE of them are worth it. He also just comes off as more flat and bland the more I read until I’m left wondering if he’s just here as Edith’s eye candy and plaything to push around at her (very fickle) whims, because that’s what it feels like to me.
The ending was also stupid, in my opinion, and literally this whole book only happened because Edith is a judgmental, idiotic prat with no brain in her head.
At least the cover’s pretty; too bad I can’t say the same for its insides.
Oh boy I hated this. I wish I could love this series but I just can’t and will not be continuing it.
Edith is the biggest idiot on the planet and though she had a brain in the first two books she conveniently left it in England when she went to Wales because it’s nowhere to be found in this one. Literally Simon tells her at one point they are unarmed against people who wish to trap them where they’re at and that they should leave, and she basically pats him on the head and says, “Nothing bad will happen to me, I’m the Main Female Character! Silly man for worrying, just sit in a corner and wait for my next command.” GRRRRR, I wanted to throw her off a cliff!!!!! No, Edith, nothing did happen to you, it happened to someone else in your freaking place, you insufferable, self righteous cow! UGH, I hate her!!!!!!
And Simon is just her yes man who always quietly waits for her and loves her no matter what and I’m just like WHY?! She’s awful! He literally should just ditch all the women in his life and run away; I’m serious, NONE of them are worth it. He also just comes off as more flat and bland the more I read until I’m left wondering if he’s just here as Edith’s eye candy and plaything to push around at her (very fickle) whims, because that’s what it feels like to me.
The ending was also stupid, in my opinion, and literally this whole book only happened because Edith is a judgmental, idiotic prat with no brain in her head.
At least the cover’s pretty; too bad I can’t say the same for its insides.
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April 15, 2024Hooray for another Ormdale book! It's now been about a year since I read the first draft of this book, and I couldn't be happier with how much richer and more resonant it's grown since! Book 3 finds Edith, our favourite red-headed dragon charmer, venturing out of Ormdale to the wilds of Wales, where she discovers that she has in fact not been invited to a dragon mating ceremony but something a good deal more sinister and harder to escape from. But there's still oodles of cosiness, sunshine, tea, and adorable dragons to investigate - so basically, if you love the Emily Wilde books but think they should have a lot more dragons and a lot more social criticism, these are the books for YOU.
Speaking of social criticism, I had to laugh when I was reading these books in their earliest drafts and an invitation to Wild Wales arrives for Edith, because I saw INSTANTLY what was going to happen in this instalment. In the fourteen years I've known Christina I have been sat down to watch THE VILLAGE and have heard a number of detailed rants on the deep unfairness inflicted upon the Alcott family (of LITTLE WOMEN fame) by their incredibly selfish father as part of his 19th century utopian commune. CASTLE OF THE WINDS presents its own take on small utopian communities, which if you were ever a homeschooled millennial, will be all too poignantly familiar to you - and unlike THE VILLAGE, presents such a story with special attention to the unique temptation such communities hold for women, and the exploitation they have all too often found there. In amidst the charm and adventure and romance, this book has the most deep and resonant themes of the entire series so far.
And then of course there are the delightful romantic tropes. We get to watch in real time as Edith realises that she's been decoyed very much against her own common sense into participating in a competition to marry a prince, then does her level best not to become the yielding heroine of a badly written villain romance - all while taking some important steps forward in her relationship with the gentle Simon Drake.
In short, absolutely delightful.
Speaking of social criticism, I had to laugh when I was reading these books in their earliest drafts and an invitation to Wild Wales arrives for Edith, because I saw INSTANTLY what was going to happen in this instalment. In the fourteen years I've known Christina I have been sat down to watch THE VILLAGE and have heard a number of detailed rants on the deep unfairness inflicted upon the Alcott family (of LITTLE WOMEN fame) by their incredibly selfish father as part of his 19th century utopian commune. CASTLE OF THE WINDS presents its own take on small utopian communities, which if you were ever a homeschooled millennial, will be all too poignantly familiar to you - and unlike THE VILLAGE, presents such a story with special attention to the unique temptation such communities hold for women, and the exploitation they have all too often found there. In amidst the charm and adventure and romance, this book has the most deep and resonant themes of the entire series so far.
And then of course there are the delightful romantic tropes. We get to watch in real time as Edith realises that she's been decoyed very much against her own common sense into participating in a competition to marry a prince, then does her level best not to become the yielding heroine of a badly written villain romance - all while taking some important steps forward in her relationship with the gentle Simon Drake.
In short, absolutely delightful.
June 21, 2024
I tried to read this slowly as a lead-up to Book 4 but that didn’t work. 😂 The issues facing Edith and her beloved Ormdale are getting more complex and miry. Her journey to Wales got her into all sorts of trouble and yet brought moments of intense clarity to Edith as well. It was fascinating to see the differences between Edith and Simon in their perceptions, judgments, motivations, etc. The completely different setting in Wales made the contrasts between them stand out while at the same time bringing them together. Christina does such a good job of making her characters complex. I was particularly struck by the complexity of Janushek, Helena, Arthur, Miss Falconer, and Lavinia in this story. I am so excited for Books 4 & 5!
October 12, 2025
Somehow my original review got erased 😔
I “reread” via audiobook in October 2025, and I enjoyed it much better the second time. This series is delightful. The Castle of the Winds is set mostly away from Wormwood Abbey. I loved Edith and Simon per usual. Most of the secondary characters in this story are … less likable. I did love Miss Birdwhistle 😊
Highly recommend you read these books in order.
Content: one use of God’s name in vain, assault (minimal details), kidnapping, mistress and illegitimate children mentioned, some orher content inappropriate for younger teens.
I “reread” via audiobook in October 2025, and I enjoyed it much better the second time. This series is delightful. The Castle of the Winds is set mostly away from Wormwood Abbey. I loved Edith and Simon per usual. Most of the secondary characters in this story are … less likable. I did love Miss Birdwhistle 😊
Highly recommend you read these books in order.
Content: one use of God’s name in vain, assault (minimal details), kidnapping, mistress and illegitimate children mentioned, some orher content inappropriate for younger teens.
April 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
This is my favorite book in the series yet! The plot continues to intensify with danger, secrets, betrayals, and intrigue… leaving you on a cliffhanger! I love the setting, the characters, the banter and humor, and the dragons!
I highly recommend checking this series out if you haven’t yet, and if you enjoy audiobooks, the narrator is fantastic!
This is my favorite book in the series yet! The plot continues to intensify with danger, secrets, betrayals, and intrigue… leaving you on a cliffhanger! I love the setting, the characters, the banter and humor, and the dragons!
I highly recommend checking this series out if you haven’t yet, and if you enjoy audiobooks, the narrator is fantastic!
June 2, 2024
The stakes just keep getting higher! This is my favorite out of the series thus far, and I’m excited for book 4!
June 23, 2025
I found this by turns amusing and moving, and also very soundly crafted. Most books by 21st-century authors set in England in an earlier era feel like the characters are 21st-century people in costumes, standing in front of scenery flats. These books give me the feeling of actual inhabitants of a real England in 1899, probably helped by listening to the audiobook, which is beautifully read by an English woman.
I was thoroughly amused by the anti-romance (a genre perfected by P.G. Wodehouse), where narrator Edith is trying not to be attractive to the Welsh prince, especially since, by basically being Edith, she is significantly failing to be unattractive and uninteresting. Her rival Meredith is a waspish, conventional, pretty young woman, and Edith's distant cousin/escort/possible love interest Simon sees through Meredith immediately and is not attracted, any more than Edith is to the beautiful Welsh prince. I do love a romance plot where people behave sensibly, and Edith is (nearly) always sensible. And I particularly like the subversion of the toxic romance trope of falling in love with one's captor.
It's interesting how Edith is simultaneously put off by the prince's tendency to order people around and assume that she'll fall in with his wishes without consulting her, and frustrated by Simon not being more self-assertive. But when he does assert himself, she disastrously refuses to follow his plan. She wants something in the middle: a man who is complete in himself and doesn't need to be managed, but doesn't try to manage her either, and who will consult her as an equal - yet she doesn't treat Simon as an equal in that circumstance either, but patronizes him, rationalizing that she has more experience of the world than he does. She has room to grow, in other words, which is a good thing for a character - and she realizes it, too.
In contrast to the previous book in particular, this one has more intrepid action, though a lot of it is Edith (mostly) sensibly figuring out her next move in a situation of threat - something that I still found just as engaging as the action parts, to be clear.
Edith's moral and philosophical position is always strong and clear, without any preaching happening, and she backs it up with principled action. Nor does she think she has all the answers, or that her milieu is perfect, or that her opponents' setup is without merit, all of which is refreshing in itself.
In short, it has everything I miss in all too many fantasy works coming out today: good craft, authentic historical feel, attention to detail, a character who has the humility to acknowledge her imperfections and weaknesses and the strength to work on them, sensible decisions made out of clearly articulated principle that's believable for the time period without being jarring for today, and a depth of knowledge and understanding of how humans are, conveyed without soapboxing. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I was thoroughly amused by the anti-romance (a genre perfected by P.G. Wodehouse), where narrator Edith is trying not to be attractive to the Welsh prince, especially since, by basically being Edith, she is significantly failing to be unattractive and uninteresting. Her rival Meredith is a waspish, conventional, pretty young woman, and Edith's distant cousin/escort/possible love interest Simon sees through Meredith immediately and is not attracted, any more than Edith is to the beautiful Welsh prince. I do love a romance plot where people behave sensibly, and Edith is (nearly) always sensible. And I particularly like the subversion of the toxic romance trope of falling in love with one's captor.
It's interesting how Edith is simultaneously put off by the prince's tendency to order people around and assume that she'll fall in with his wishes without consulting her, and frustrated by Simon not being more self-assertive. But when he does assert himself, she disastrously refuses to follow his plan. She wants something in the middle: a man who is complete in himself and doesn't need to be managed, but doesn't try to manage her either, and who will consult her as an equal - yet she doesn't treat Simon as an equal in that circumstance either, but patronizes him, rationalizing that she has more experience of the world than he does. She has room to grow, in other words, which is a good thing for a character - and she realizes it, too.
In contrast to the previous book in particular, this one has more intrepid action, though a lot of it is Edith (mostly) sensibly figuring out her next move in a situation of threat - something that I still found just as engaging as the action parts, to be clear.
Edith's moral and philosophical position is always strong and clear, without any preaching happening, and she backs it up with principled action. Nor does she think she has all the answers, or that her milieu is perfect, or that her opponents' setup is without merit, all of which is refreshing in itself.
In short, it has everything I miss in all too many fantasy works coming out today: good craft, authentic historical feel, attention to detail, a character who has the humility to acknowledge her imperfections and weaknesses and the strength to work on them, sensible decisions made out of clearly articulated principle that's believable for the time period without being jarring for today, and a depth of knowledge and understanding of how humans are, conveyed without soapboxing. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
November 5, 2025
5+ ★ // 9❤︎ – A Top Favorite
This book took me on a whirlwind, and I don't think it let up for a second. I don't know if I will be able to write a review to do it justice, honestly. It's one of those books where you cry at the end, write down a bunch of random quotes you love, and go around recruiting other people to read it...I listened to this book on audio and made way too many bookmarks...but here goes:
BOOKISH YAYS:
*I say the cover every time. Y'all should know this would be the first thing. But honestly, the cover is so perfect! 10/10. It's amazing!
*The prose is *chef's kiss* Every time I start a new book in the series, I am blown away by the beauty and magic that Christina makes with her words. We are sucked right into her world, as surely as if we jumped into the pools in the Woods Between the World. (There's my Narnia reference for the day)
*I did not guess a SINGLE plot twist or see any of them coming! When I say I was on the edge of my seat, I mean it. This book grabbed me and refused to let go until I was sniffling at the very last chapter.
*we get to see Edith and Simon's relationship blossom slowly, and it was so sweet...until it was sad. But I'm not talking about that because MASSIVE SPOILERS. But they are clearly perfect for one another, and I live in hope of their happily-ever-after!
*I just need to say how much I loved Simon in this book - he's protective, noble, selfless....has never ridden a train in his life and doesn't know what a tunnel is. I just want to shake my head, say bless your heart, and put him somewhere safe with a large pot of tea and some Jane Austen novels. He deserves that.
*Meredith Faulkner - I lost track of the times I wanted to slap her, but honestly she was such a distinct character. There were little glimpses of her true self which was scared and made me think I might feel bad for her, only to want to slap her again in the next chapter. But she did serve as a good "foil" for Edith. There is steel under her flouncy, golden beauty.
*DRAGON RIDING! Honestly, I wish I could quote the entire dragon riding chapter in this review but have neither the time nor space to do it. Anyway, it sounds better in context. But it was my favorite scene in the whole book and I loved every last syllable of it! When I get my physical copy of the book, I shall probably break my "never write in books rule" and draw hearts and stars all in the margins. Remember, when your riding dragons...whatever happens, don't close your eyes.
*I don't like the Red Prince but I can't put him under "BOOKISH NAYS" because he didn't stop me from reading the book. I just kept wanting to hit him...on the head...with a brick. Multiple times. I must say, one thing I love about Christina Baehr's books are her unique and distinctive characters!
*There is more faith-related content/quotes in this book which I loved! Edith is a clergyman's daughter - she gets into a debate with a Welsh leader over whether sin is true. Characters also pray to God, ask Him for deliverance, and say that "sorry" is not repentance - you need fruit to go with it. I loved seeing this come through, and hope to see more in the future books as well!
*Edith's red dragon - I loved her. She is gorgeous and free and untamed - and Edith rides her and tames her and names her and I love it so, so much! It was honestly giving Leeli from the Wingfeather Saga (if you know, you know)
*We get some of Janushek at the very, very end. I can't say much because of spoilers, but he's the kind of friend we all need. Edith does, anyway. He doesn't ask questions, he doesn't get worked up. He lets her cry, shows her to a private part of the train, and takes her home "like a shepherd." Yes, I know that probably doesn't make sense without context but I refuse to give spoilers so can't elaborate. But I love Janushek <3
CONTENT:
Again, I can't put these under "BOOKISH OKAYS/NAYS" because although they are heavier topics, they were handled in a respectful manner with minimal detail:
-mentions of a maiden being sacrificed to a dragon
-mentions of pre-Christian rites
-wine is drunk at a celebration (no mentions of drunkeness)
-a man has children out of wedlock (marriage not viewed as sacred) but all that is shown on the page is Edith realizing "oh those are so-and-so's children" [name redacted for spoilers]
-someone says "Good G--, you really are a clergyman's daughter"
-a man attacks a woman (she is escaping and he grabs her, nothing more and not for any other reasons)
-a man says a woman should have children with him (that's all he says) and she refuses. No attempt is made on anyone's virtue.
"They were speaking in Welsh, which sounded to me like a sunlit river running over rocks."
"There, in the clearing I was astonished to see Simon dressed in hose and a linen undershirt, and a soft blue wool surcoat with a leather belt swung round him - looking for all the world like Sir Percival in the wilderness. I thought he'd never looked better."
"This was entirely too friendly. Quick. I must say something obnoxious."
"I wasn't entirely sure how to behave. Social norms only go so far in the face of extraordinary circumstances. I'd never been told 'This is how a young lady ought to behave when dragon riding with a young man for whose hand in marriage she is presently competing."
"Well, my dear," he said gravely. "I suggest you start by humbling yourself under the mighty hand of God."
"Courage is love defying fear - I would defy this place and escape it. I would defy it for those I loved and myself because to stay and lose myself here would be the most grievous sin of all." I WANTED TO STAND UP AND CHEER HERE!!
If you made it all the way to the very end, thanks! Now off you go to read this book!
This book took me on a whirlwind, and I don't think it let up for a second. I don't know if I will be able to write a review to do it justice, honestly. It's one of those books where you cry at the end, write down a bunch of random quotes you love, and go around recruiting other people to read it...I listened to this book on audio and made way too many bookmarks...but here goes:
BOOKISH YAYS:
*I say the cover every time. Y'all should know this would be the first thing. But honestly, the cover is so perfect! 10/10. It's amazing!
*The prose is *chef's kiss* Every time I start a new book in the series, I am blown away by the beauty and magic that Christina makes with her words. We are sucked right into her world, as surely as if we jumped into the pools in the Woods Between the World. (There's my Narnia reference for the day)
*I did not guess a SINGLE plot twist or see any of them coming! When I say I was on the edge of my seat, I mean it. This book grabbed me and refused to let go until I was sniffling at the very last chapter.
*we get to see Edith and Simon's relationship blossom slowly, and it was so sweet...until it was sad. But I'm not talking about that because MASSIVE SPOILERS. But they are clearly perfect for one another, and I live in hope of their happily-ever-after!
*I just need to say how much I loved Simon in this book - he's protective, noble, selfless....has never ridden a train in his life and doesn't know what a tunnel is. I just want to shake my head, say bless your heart, and put him somewhere safe with a large pot of tea and some Jane Austen novels. He deserves that.
*Meredith Faulkner - I lost track of the times I wanted to slap her, but honestly she was such a distinct character. There were little glimpses of her true self which was scared and made me think I might feel bad for her, only to want to slap her again in the next chapter. But she did serve as a good "foil" for Edith. There is steel under her flouncy, golden beauty.
*DRAGON RIDING! Honestly, I wish I could quote the entire dragon riding chapter in this review but have neither the time nor space to do it. Anyway, it sounds better in context. But it was my favorite scene in the whole book and I loved every last syllable of it! When I get my physical copy of the book, I shall probably break my "never write in books rule" and draw hearts and stars all in the margins. Remember, when your riding dragons...whatever happens, don't close your eyes.
*I don't like the Red Prince but I can't put him under "BOOKISH NAYS" because he didn't stop me from reading the book. I just kept wanting to hit him...on the head...with a brick. Multiple times. I must say, one thing I love about Christina Baehr's books are her unique and distinctive characters!
*There is more faith-related content/quotes in this book which I loved! Edith is a clergyman's daughter - she gets into a debate with a Welsh leader over whether sin is true. Characters also pray to God, ask Him for deliverance, and say that "sorry" is not repentance - you need fruit to go with it. I loved seeing this come through, and hope to see more in the future books as well!
*Edith's red dragon - I loved her. She is gorgeous and free and untamed - and Edith rides her and tames her and names her and I love it so, so much! It was honestly giving Leeli from the Wingfeather Saga (if you know, you know)
*We get some of Janushek at the very, very end. I can't say much because of spoilers, but he's the kind of friend we all need. Edith does, anyway. He doesn't ask questions, he doesn't get worked up. He lets her cry, shows her to a private part of the train, and takes her home "like a shepherd." Yes, I know that probably doesn't make sense without context but I refuse to give spoilers so can't elaborate. But I love Janushek <3
CONTENT:
Again, I can't put these under "BOOKISH OKAYS/NAYS" because although they are heavier topics, they were handled in a respectful manner with minimal detail:
-mentions of a maiden being sacrificed to a dragon
-mentions of pre-Christian rites
-wine is drunk at a celebration (no mentions of drunkeness)
-a man has children out of wedlock (marriage not viewed as sacred) but all that is shown on the page is Edith realizing "oh those are so-and-so's children" [name redacted for spoilers]
-someone says "Good G--, you really are a clergyman's daughter"
-a man attacks a woman (she is escaping and he grabs her, nothing more and not for any other reasons)
-a man says a woman should have children with him (that's all he says) and she refuses. No attempt is made on anyone's virtue.
"They were speaking in Welsh, which sounded to me like a sunlit river running over rocks."
"There, in the clearing I was astonished to see Simon dressed in hose and a linen undershirt, and a soft blue wool surcoat with a leather belt swung round him - looking for all the world like Sir Percival in the wilderness. I thought he'd never looked better."
"This was entirely too friendly. Quick. I must say something obnoxious."
"I wasn't entirely sure how to behave. Social norms only go so far in the face of extraordinary circumstances. I'd never been told 'This is how a young lady ought to behave when dragon riding with a young man for whose hand in marriage she is presently competing."
"Well, my dear," he said gravely. "I suggest you start by humbling yourself under the mighty hand of God."
"Courage is love defying fear - I would defy this place and escape it. I would defy it for those I loved and myself because to stay and lose myself here would be the most grievous sin of all." I WANTED TO STAND UP AND CHEER HERE!!
If you made it all the way to the very end, thanks! Now off you go to read this book!
February 9, 2025
It's been a long time since I've come across a series I've enjoyed as much as this one. Eagerly awaiting book four from my library!
December 23, 2024
5+ stars (6/10 hearts). Every time I think Christina Baehr can’t possibly surprise me, I end up mind blown. I am not exaggerating, these books get better and better!
I love Edith. She’s so, so relatable. I’m not as smart as she is, nor as good at reading people, but I totally am as naïve and optimistic. Seeing her take a hefty dose of realism and finally fully understanding the wickedness of people—beyond just what she heard as a clergyman’s daughter—was splendid. So was her growing faith. Simon was a brick, as always, and their tiny growing romance THE SWEETEST; I can’t wait to see it blossom. Arthur was despicable, and fascinating; and somehow I hated his father worse. The Welsh maiden, whose name currently escapes me, and the butler, and the schoolteacher too, were my favourites—what intriguing characters! I’d wish to see them again but I think they’d be out of place anywhere else. As for Miss F, she was well worth leaving in Wales, despite all the interest she commands.
The plot was certainly more intense than any of the other books so far. Questions are raised, a few answers given, more puzzle pieces are revealed—all during a forced sojourn in an unknown village buried in the remote, unforgiving mountains where a selfish, self-satisfied theoretician enforces his idea of Utopia. Flying dragons, a rival, hostage negotiations, and thousand-year-old beasts make for plenty of excitement, and the author tackles more deep topics: oppression & minority, politics and sin nature, losing oneself to conformity, and the vulnerability + exploitation of women and children, to name a few.
I enjoyed so many things, like the medieval aesthetic, the symbolism, the dragon love; I appreciated the splendid humour and thought-provoking messages; the ending had me melting and the cliffhanger aghast… it’s absolutely an amazing addition to the series. <3
Content: mentions of women being mistresses & exploited; attempted a*sault to Edith that doesn’t get too far; discussion of the a*sault of a minor ending in pregnancy.
A Favourite Quote: “There are no invisible people here. Everyone has a purpose, everyone is respected. No one is superfluous.”
The old woman who had touched my face so tenderly, what would her condition be if she had grown old in a Welsh mining town, I wondered. Or in Ormdale? I felt a flush of guilt—some of the servants at the abbey were growing old, with no comforts to alleviate the inevitable complaints of age. Had I been content not to see them? Was Ormdale full of invisible people?
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: How odd, I thought, that Arthur’s good looks made me feel off-balance and slightly ill, but Simon’s made me feel like I was sitting in my own chair at home with a teapot brewing and a good fire warming me.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: Goodness, why wouldn’t he find me dull? Quick, I must think of something dull! What was the dullest thing I could think of? Ah! I had it. “Have you ever attended a charity bazaar, sir?” I asked.
He looked taken aback. “No, I can’t say I’ve ever had the pleasure…”
“It is no pleasure. It is a torment,” I said fervently. I then launched into what I hoped was an interminable description of one of the most tedious afternoons I had ever survived. But somehow it didn’t come out that way. It was rather like that ridiculous book I had read on the train. Nothing of any consequence happens in it, the people and events are tiresome in the extreme, but one never wants it to end. From Arthur’s rapt expression, I was beginning to think I should consider trying my hand at a comic novel next instead of my usual detective fare, when I caught a glimpse of Miss Falconer’s face and began to fear I would not survive the night. (Perhaps a knowledge of common poisons would come in handy, after all.) Faltering, I ended my story rather weakly. “So you see, sir, you haven’t missed anything at all. There’s nothing at all to interest you.”
*Quotes to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
I love Edith. She’s so, so relatable. I’m not as smart as she is, nor as good at reading people, but I totally am as naïve and optimistic. Seeing her take a hefty dose of realism and finally fully understanding the wickedness of people—beyond just what she heard as a clergyman’s daughter—was splendid. So was her growing faith. Simon was a brick, as always, and their tiny growing romance THE SWEETEST; I can’t wait to see it blossom. Arthur was despicable, and fascinating; and somehow I hated his father worse. The Welsh maiden, whose name currently escapes me, and the butler, and the schoolteacher too, were my favourites—what intriguing characters! I’d wish to see them again but I think they’d be out of place anywhere else. As for Miss F, she was well worth leaving in Wales, despite all the interest she commands.
The plot was certainly more intense than any of the other books so far. Questions are raised, a few answers given, more puzzle pieces are revealed—all during a forced sojourn in an unknown village buried in the remote, unforgiving mountains where a selfish, self-satisfied theoretician enforces his idea of Utopia. Flying dragons, a rival, hostage negotiations, and thousand-year-old beasts make for plenty of excitement, and the author tackles more deep topics: oppression & minority, politics and sin nature, losing oneself to conformity, and the vulnerability + exploitation of women and children, to name a few.
I enjoyed so many things, like the medieval aesthetic, the symbolism, the dragon love; I appreciated the splendid humour and thought-provoking messages; the ending had me melting and the cliffhanger aghast… it’s absolutely an amazing addition to the series. <3
Content: mentions of women being mistresses & exploited; attempted a*sault to Edith that doesn’t get too far; discussion of the a*sault of a minor ending in pregnancy.
A Favourite Quote: “There are no invisible people here. Everyone has a purpose, everyone is respected. No one is superfluous.”
The old woman who had touched my face so tenderly, what would her condition be if she had grown old in a Welsh mining town, I wondered. Or in Ormdale? I felt a flush of guilt—some of the servants at the abbey were growing old, with no comforts to alleviate the inevitable complaints of age. Had I been content not to see them? Was Ormdale full of invisible people?
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: How odd, I thought, that Arthur’s good looks made me feel off-balance and slightly ill, but Simon’s made me feel like I was sitting in my own chair at home with a teapot brewing and a good fire warming me.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: Goodness, why wouldn’t he find me dull? Quick, I must think of something dull! What was the dullest thing I could think of? Ah! I had it. “Have you ever attended a charity bazaar, sir?” I asked.
He looked taken aback. “No, I can’t say I’ve ever had the pleasure…”
“It is no pleasure. It is a torment,” I said fervently. I then launched into what I hoped was an interminable description of one of the most tedious afternoons I had ever survived. But somehow it didn’t come out that way. It was rather like that ridiculous book I had read on the train. Nothing of any consequence happens in it, the people and events are tiresome in the extreme, but one never wants it to end. From Arthur’s rapt expression, I was beginning to think I should consider trying my hand at a comic novel next instead of my usual detective fare, when I caught a glimpse of Miss Falconer’s face and began to fear I would not survive the night. (Perhaps a knowledge of common poisons would come in handy, after all.) Faltering, I ended my story rather weakly. “So you see, sir, you haven’t missed anything at all. There’s nothing at all to interest you.”
*Quotes to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
July 30, 2025
Ooh I loved this one! When Edith started singing modern major general I might have laughed and squealed with excitement at the same time.
August 5, 2024
Ahhhhh so much intrigue and suspense! I feel like I can't say much because all the spoilers, but this is my favorite of the series so far... except I have to read book 4 stat because THAT ENDING!
August 17, 2025
How fun! I love how this series reads like one large book. Edith, with her crazy red hair and fearless love of dragons, is adorable and easily a favorite of mine in the fantasy world. She’s spunky, endearing, witty, and has a selfless desire to help those around her. Fantasy is not something I typically read, but this series feels so fresh and unique to me that I can’t get enough of it.
June 9, 2025
*Buying the fourth book the second I finished this one* I really enjoyed this one, and can’t wait to continue the series. So much happened and I need to know more! Check out more of my thoughts and content notes here: https://boundlessbookshelfreviews.blo...
April 11, 2024
Another excellent installment in the Secrets of Ormdale series! Edith continues to be the most relatable of protagonists — simultaneously sensible and eager for adventure, equal parts practical and appreciative of drama. She's intelligent, but she's still allowed to make mistakes — and, I'll admit, she flubs a bit more in this book than she does in others. However, at no point was I actually frustrated with her because every time, I had to admit that I probably would've done the same thing, probably for the same reasons (those reasons being dragons and responsibility, but especially the former). And, as a writer, I absolutely love the points where her writing comes up in the narrative, especially the brief scene wherein she tries to solve a problem by considering how her protagonist would address her, only to admit that her protagonist never would've gotten himself in the situation in the first place. Honestly, same.
I also enjoyed seeing Simon continue to come into his own, so to speak, as he has an opportunity to determine who he is and who he wants to be outside of the expectations and influences that have surrounded him all his life. Again and again, he has opportunities to display his character, and again and again he proves himself to be a man of quality (especially held up against certain others). Also, he just demonstrates so much courage and trust throughout the book, and I love him for it. The continuing relationship between him and Edith is additionally lovely, and I really appreciate that the two of them are so mature about how how they deal with their feelings and the fact that they're able to be friends even though they both know that they're into each other but aren't yet ready to act on that.
Castle of the Winds takes us to Wild Wales, another dragon-holding, and I loved exploring the new culture, dragons, and lore there. I especially appreciated the inclusion of Arthurian and Welsh myth references! Because of the new location and some other stuff going on in the story, this book is more adventurous and has higher stakes than the first two in the series. The characters are often caught off-guard by the differences between Wild Wales and their home, and the dangers they're dealing with are simultaneously more insidious and more threatening than what they've faced in previous books. Plus, there are some absolutely magnificent action bits! However, the overall tone remains cozy, so this is still a low-stress read and not a major departure from the other stories.
Additionally, I loved that the new location gave Baehr opportunities to explore new facets of her series themes. Where Wormwood Abbey and Drake Hall were largely about the danger of maintaining "the way it's always been" even when those traditions are harmful, Castle of the Winds presents a different way of idolizing tradition — a "return to" tradition, so to speak — that may seem better but offers just as many opportunities for abuse. And, of course, family and the way it can build a person for better or worse continues to be a major theme.
This series continues to get better and better, and I look forward to what book four will bring!
I also enjoyed seeing Simon continue to come into his own, so to speak, as he has an opportunity to determine who he is and who he wants to be outside of the expectations and influences that have surrounded him all his life. Again and again, he has opportunities to display his character, and again and again he proves himself to be a man of quality (especially held up against certain others). Also, he just demonstrates so much courage and trust throughout the book, and I love him for it. The continuing relationship between him and Edith is additionally lovely, and I really appreciate that the two of them are so mature about how how they deal with their feelings and the fact that they're able to be friends even though they both know that they're into each other but aren't yet ready to act on that.
Castle of the Winds takes us to Wild Wales, another dragon-holding, and I loved exploring the new culture, dragons, and lore there. I especially appreciated the inclusion of Arthurian and Welsh myth references! Because of the new location and some other stuff going on in the story, this book is more adventurous and has higher stakes than the first two in the series. The characters are often caught off-guard by the differences between Wild Wales and their home, and the dangers they're dealing with are simultaneously more insidious and more threatening than what they've faced in previous books. Plus, there are some absolutely magnificent action bits! However, the overall tone remains cozy, so this is still a low-stress read and not a major departure from the other stories.
Additionally, I loved that the new location gave Baehr opportunities to explore new facets of her series themes. Where Wormwood Abbey and Drake Hall were largely about the danger of maintaining "the way it's always been" even when those traditions are harmful, Castle of the Winds presents a different way of idolizing tradition — a "return to" tradition, so to speak — that may seem better but offers just as many opportunities for abuse. And, of course, family and the way it can build a person for better or worse continues to be a major theme.
This series continues to get better and better, and I look forward to what book four will bring!
April 8, 2024
To say I consumed this book would be an understatement. I finished it in three hours and I have no regrets 😝
There is so much danger, secrets, betrayals, and intrigue, that there was no way I could put it down; and I confess, I'm still gasping over that cliffhanger ending! Like the author says, it is a cosy cliffhanger although I never thought that possible. But tea is involved, and Edith is fine, even though a very important other person isn't... no spoilers 😅
And the dragons! Oh, the dragons ❤️ I've never wanted to live in a world where dragons existed until now... I'll just have to live vicariously through Edith.
I am awaiting the fourth book in this series with great anticipation ☕🐉
Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author, and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own
There is so much danger, secrets, betrayals, and intrigue, that there was no way I could put it down; and I confess, I'm still gasping over that cliffhanger ending! Like the author says, it is a cosy cliffhanger although I never thought that possible. But tea is involved, and Edith is fine, even though a very important other person isn't... no spoilers 😅
And the dragons! Oh, the dragons ❤️ I've never wanted to live in a world where dragons existed until now... I'll just have to live vicariously through Edith.
I am awaiting the fourth book in this series with great anticipation ☕🐉
Note: I received an advanced reader copy from the author, and I was not required to leave a positive review. All views expressed are my own
May 3, 2024
This book is a delicious entry into this gaslamp, cozy Gothic dragon series! Our leading lady faces far more danger and mystery as she steps into the mysterious Castle of the Winds, which turns out to be nothing like what she expected! There's a wannabee Arthurian cult, discussions on society, dragon riding, and so much more in this book!
But that ending...argh! This book does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, FYI. I can't wait for the next book!
I received a copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
But that ending...argh! This book does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, FYI. I can't wait for the next book!
I received a copy of this book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
October 31, 2024
Christina would have LOVED watching my reactions this afternoon go from romantic fangirling to shocked horror in a split second. Let's just say I thought a favorite suitor had showed up in a moment of peril and IT WAS MOST DEFINITELY NOT HIM.
This is my favorite book of the series so far. We got some incredible Welsh culture, gorgeous fashions, breathtaking dragon rides, and a thoughtful treatment of needing to recognize your own autonomy as well as healing when it was taken by force. I've never read books that treat female perspectives and problems so clearly and kindly, and I'm resonating with every moment. This book also brought more layers of complexity to Edith's character, and I really enjoyed the plot as well.
As a writer, I've heard Christian fiction conferences talk about the necessity of loving your audience as you write. As a reader, I've never felt so loved with the gift of beauty and goodness as I have reading Christina's books. Not only are the stories refreshing, but the themes have shaped my heart with gentleness and clarity. I'm sad to be out of audiobooks, but I can't wait for what's next when I'm able to pick up the paperbacks!
This is my favorite book of the series so far. We got some incredible Welsh culture, gorgeous fashions, breathtaking dragon rides, and a thoughtful treatment of needing to recognize your own autonomy as well as healing when it was taken by force. I've never read books that treat female perspectives and problems so clearly and kindly, and I'm resonating with every moment. This book also brought more layers of complexity to Edith's character, and I really enjoyed the plot as well.
As a writer, I've heard Christian fiction conferences talk about the necessity of loving your audience as you write. As a reader, I've never felt so loved with the gift of beauty and goodness as I have reading Christina's books. Not only are the stories refreshing, but the themes have shaped my heart with gentleness and clarity. I'm sad to be out of audiobooks, but I can't wait for what's next when I'm able to pick up the paperbacks!
February 21, 2025
This was interesting! The first one in the series is still my favorite, but I enjoyed this.
I really liked the majority of the book up until about the 70% mark. The "love triangle" and the contest to pick the bride was humorous and I enjoyed it! Then once I started to get uncomfortable. I feel like there started being some suggestive comments and I didn't like the scene with them in the woods. Nothing explicit and only inferred, but I found myself skimming the last 25% of the book, personally.
I'll probably read the next one, though!
✨ 3.5 Stars ✨
I really liked the majority of the book up until about the 70% mark. The "love triangle" and the contest to pick the bride was humorous and I enjoyed it! Then once I started to get uncomfortable. I feel like there started being some suggestive comments and I didn't like the scene with them in the woods. Nothing explicit and only inferred, but I found myself skimming the last 25% of the book, personally.
I'll probably read the next one, though!
✨ 3.5 Stars ✨
July 19, 2025
Ohhh I finished it and it was SO GOOD!!! By far my favorite book in the series so far ✨🐉✨The writing style is just—*chef’s kiss*. Christina Baehr has a magical writing style that paints a picture in your head. Throughout this whole book I could clearly see the scene playing in my mind like a movie. 🎥 The writing is witty but also charming. There were so many things I didn’t see coming. I cannot wait to read the next one. If you are thinking about reading these…Do it!! 🤩😉
P.S. I listened to some of this and the narrator does an amazing job so there’s that. 😌
P.S. I listened to some of this and the narrator does an amazing job so there’s that. 😌
December 23, 2024
Excellent. Best book so far in the series. Still chewing on some of the moments in book and marveling at how she wove such big ideas in seamlessly.
I love being in Edith’s head and seeing her missteps and how she learns from them. Lovely.
Also, though I don’t know the author, I feel confident that we have at least a couple of mutual friends: Jesus and Charlotte Mason. I have so enjoyed seeing our friends show up in these books.
I love being in Edith’s head and seeing her missteps and how she learns from them. Lovely.
Also, though I don’t know the author, I feel confident that we have at least a couple of mutual friends: Jesus and Charlotte Mason. I have so enjoyed seeing our friends show up in these books.
December 10, 2025
This was my favorite book in the series!
November 21, 2024
Gah that was so good! But the PLOT TWISTS 😡 mean mean mean! But….i still did guess the solution to the problem though so I guess that counts for something…but still…the PLOT TWISTS!!
June 9, 2025
Finished the unreasonably long paper on the geography of Austria I had to do last weekend (okay, let me brag - I got 99%), then immediately came back to this series to binge read this book XD
The way this series has developed so far has really impressed me. I've read several series that seem to lose direction and motivation after the first book or two, but this series avoids that pitfall. The stakes rise with each book, and the characters have new internal struggles and aspects of their relationship to work through. Also, let me just say that I love the way the author described the differences between the way Simon and Arthur treat Edith, as well as the way they make her feel. The book's overall tone is still mostly lighthearted, but it deals with some heavy issues skillfully and thoughtfully as well.
I saw most of the minor plot twists coming near the end, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment of them. The plot and pacing worked really well - even better than the first two books. This excites me because it feels like this author has found her stride, and I can't wait to see if she writes more!
The way this series has developed so far has really impressed me. I've read several series that seem to lose direction and motivation after the first book or two, but this series avoids that pitfall. The stakes rise with each book, and the characters have new internal struggles and aspects of their relationship to work through. Also, let me just say that I love the way the author described the differences between the way Simon and Arthur treat Edith, as well as the way they make her feel. The book's overall tone is still mostly lighthearted, but it deals with some heavy issues skillfully and thoughtfully as well.
I saw most of the minor plot twists coming near the end, but it didn't lessen my enjoyment of them. The plot and pacing worked really well - even better than the first two books. This excites me because it feels like this author has found her stride, and I can't wait to see if she writes more!
June 28, 2025
The ending of these books leave me with my mouth wide open!
This time, very, literally. I was expecting to dive into the action and then it just ENDED.
Guess I’m diving into book4 IMMEDIATELY!!
As much as I don’t dislike Edith… this time around her headstrong-ness made me a little annoyed…
“JUST LISTEN TO SIMON!!” I wanted to shout… and actually may have… who cares if he’s seen less of the world than you?!?!?!
But regardless I still like her and now I love Simon MORE !!!
There was so much lore, tradition and fear and hope in this one, made me appreciate Ormdale all the more and just wanted them home the entire time they were away.
I. Love. Janushek. I think I’ve said that ever since he appeared haha but I just can’t help it!!
Arthur. His character arc… his lack of development but also change in character was perfection.
I found myself feeling about him the same way Edith did, unsure at every new encounter!!
Anyways… Go on and read the book, so that we can chat dragons together !!
This time, very, literally. I was expecting to dive into the action and then it just ENDED.
Guess I’m diving into book4 IMMEDIATELY!!
As much as I don’t dislike Edith… this time around her headstrong-ness made me a little annoyed…
“JUST LISTEN TO SIMON!!” I wanted to shout… and actually may have… who cares if he’s seen less of the world than you?!?!?!
But regardless I still like her and now I love Simon MORE !!!
There was so much lore, tradition and fear and hope in this one, made me appreciate Ormdale all the more and just wanted them home the entire time they were away.
I. Love. Janushek. I think I’ve said that ever since he appeared haha but I just can’t help it!!
Arthur. His character arc… his lack of development but also change in character was perfection.
I found myself feeling about him the same way Edith did, unsure at every new encounter!!
Anyways… Go on and read the book, so that we can chat dragons together !!
February 7, 2025
Riveting and so hard to put down! I love these characters and look forward to seeing where the story goes in the final two books.
April 13, 2024
It was obvious from the first sentence that this book would be quite different from the previous two. This one has much more action and adventure. I appreciated getting to see other kinds of dragons and meet other dragon keepers. The dragons were fabulous, but I did not like the dragon keepers very much. Overall, they were not nice people. It was unfortunate that Edith made the mistake of assuming they would be honorable and trustworthy simply because they oversaw their dragon valley. This put her in some very precarious situations. She was fortunate to escape with little harm. There were moments where I felt Edith’s joy interacting with the dragons and moments where I feared for her safety with the rulers of the valley.
Edith’s family was not as present in this book out of necessity since she traveled to Wales with only Simon as her companion. I missed their unwavering support of her, but they were there for her when she returned. I think her family is one of the greatest assets in this series. It is rare to find books with such a strong family dynamic. Janushek is also becoming a great support for Edith. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.
Edith and Simon had an opportunity to get better acquainted on the trip to Wales and it appears as though romance is blooming. That would, of course, require surmounting the issue of Simon’s mother and her need for complete control. Now we must wait and see what happens in the next installment. I am looking forward to seeing how Edith solves the problems she inadvertently created for Simon and herself.
I received an ARC of the book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
Edith’s family was not as present in this book out of necessity since she traveled to Wales with only Simon as her companion. I missed their unwavering support of her, but they were there for her when she returned. I think her family is one of the greatest assets in this series. It is rare to find books with such a strong family dynamic. Janushek is also becoming a great support for Edith. I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next.
Edith and Simon had an opportunity to get better acquainted on the trip to Wales and it appears as though romance is blooming. That would, of course, require surmounting the issue of Simon’s mother and her need for complete control. Now we must wait and see what happens in the next installment. I am looking forward to seeing how Edith solves the problems she inadvertently created for Simon and herself.
I received an ARC of the book from the author, but my opinions are my own.
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