A Bond of Fire & Fury

The Windtorn Chronicles #1

by Brenda Trim

At thirty-two, I'm too old for this. The dragon that chose me has already killed three riders. And my instructor knows exactly what I am—he's just not telling me.

I've spent three decades perfecting failure. College dropout. Fired barista. Retail disaster. Freelance photographer who couldn't book a gig. When a military recruiter offers me a spot at Thornwick Academy, I'm desperate enough to ignore every red flag.

I expect boot camp. I get creatures that shouldn’t exist.

Thornwick isn't a military academy—it's a hunting ground for an ancient war, where legacy families bond with Sovereigns or die trying. These cadets have trained since childhood. They know the protocols, the bloodline politics, the secret history of this place. I learned magic existed seventy-two hours ago.

Then Obsidian chooses me.

A black dragon. A mountain-shaking force that killed his last three potential riders. Ancient, volatile, and now mine. The academy gives me two weeks before I'm added to his body count.

But my flight instructor? He's already decided I'll survive.

Captain Kael Blackwater is devastating and dangerous, pushing me past every limit while watching me like I'm a bomb he's trying to defuse. He trains me like my life depends on it—because it does. What I don't understand is why.

Why does he look at me like he knows something I don't?

Why are black dragon riders being systematically murdered, their deaths staged as training accidents?

Why are pale creatures with needle-sharp teeth suddenly hunting bonded dragons, draining their blood, leaving corpses that all lead back to me?

Kael has answers. About black dragons. About a royal bloodline supposedly exterminated centuries ago. About what I am and why Obsidian chose a thirty-two-year-old foster kid with no magic, no family, no right to be here.

He's keeping me alive by keeping me in the dark.

And I'm falling for him anyway—for the man who's either my protector or my handler, who teaches me to fly while hiding the truth about why things with teeth are hunting me, who might have orders to eliminate me the second I become too dangerous.

The Bonding Ceremony was supposed to be the hard part. No one warned me that the real test is surviving what I'm becoming.

Welcome to Thornwick Academy, where:

Dragons choose riders (or kill them)

Instructors keep deadly secrets about your bloodline

Something is hunting bonded Sovereigns and draining them dry

The man training you might be the one ordered to end you

Being chosen isn't an honor—it's a target on your back

Perfect for readers who crave: Older heroines who've failed at life • Bonds forged with killers • Instructors with devastating secrets • Systematic murder conspiracies • Found family built on survival • Protectors who might be jailors • Romance where trust could be fatal • High-stakes paranoia that earns its keep

Genres: Dragons, Fantasy

398 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 24, 2026

About the author

Brenda's Paranormal Women's Fiction

Mystical Midlife in Maine Series
1. Magical Makeover
2. Laugh Lines & Lost Things
3. Hellmouth & Hot Flashes
4. Holidays With Hades
5. Saggy But Witty in Crescent City
6. Nasty Curses & Big Purses
7. Fae Forged Axes & Chin Waxes
8. Demonic Stones & Creaky Bones
9. Underworld Frights & Sleepless Nights
10. Pixie Dust & Brain Rust
11. Magical Hands & Silver Strands
12. Deadly Quips & Furry Lips
13. Enchanted Tattoos & Lost Fools
14. Shady Secrets & Sun Spots

Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom Series
1. Packing Serious Magical Mojo
2. Cadaver On Canal Street
3. Seances & Second Line Parades
4. French Quarter Fae
5. King's Day Magical Mischief
6. Etou-Fae The Hard Way
7. Hurricanes, Heros & Hail Marys
8. Royal Street Romp
9. Levees, Lost Crowns & Loa
10. Mud Bugs & Cherished Hugs
11. Creole Dishes & Deadly Wishes

Brenda's Paranormal Romance Books
DARK WARRIOR ALLIANCE SERIES
1. Dream Warrior
2. Mystik Warrior
3. Pemas Storm
4. Isis Betrayal
5. Deviant Warrior
6. Suvi's Revenge
7. Scarred Warrior
8. Hellbound Warrior
9. Isobel
10. Rogue Warrior
11. Shattered Warrior

Reviews

[A Mountain Man’s Point of Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great had a Fourth Wing vibe can’t wait to read the next ones. This is awesome way to start the series leaves you wanting more.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

At thirty-two, I'm too old for this. The dragon that chose me has already killed three riders. And my instructor knows exactly what I am—he's just not telling me.

I've spent three decades perfecting failure. College dropout. Fired barista. Retail disaster. Freelance photographer who couldn't book a gig. When a military recruiter offers me a spot at Thornwick Academy, I'm desperate enough to ignore every red flag.

I expect boot camp. I get creatures that shouldn’t exist.

Thornwick isn't a military academy—it's a hunting ground for an ancient war, where legacy families bond with Sovereigns or die trying. These cadets have trained since childhood. They know the protocols, the bloodline politics, the secret history of this place. I learned magic existed seventy-two hours ago.

Then Obsidian chooses me.

A black dragon. A mountain-shaking force that killed his last three potential riders. Ancient, volatile, and now mine. The academy gives me two weeks before I'm added to his body count.

But my flight instructor? He's already decided I'll survive.

Captain Kael Blackwater is devastating and dangerous, pushing me past every limit while watching me like I'm a bomb he's trying to defuse. He trains me like my life depends on it—because it does. What I don't understand is why.

Why does he look at me like he knows something I don't?

Why are black dragon riders being systematically murdered, their deaths staged as training accidents?

Why are pale creatures with needle-sharp teeth suddenly hunting bonded dragons, draining their blood, leaving corpses that all lead back to me?

Kael has answers. About black dragons. About a royal bloodline supposedly exterminated centuries ago. About what I am and why Obsidian chose a thirty-two-year-old foster kid with no magic, no family, no right to be here.

He's keeping me alive by keeping me in the dark.

And I'm falling for him anyway—for the man who's either my protector or my handler, who teaches me to fly while hiding the truth about why things with teeth are hunting me, who might have orders to eliminate me the second I become too dangerous.

The Bonding Ceremony was supposed to be the hard part. No one warned me that the real test is surviving what I'm becoming.

This contemporary paranormal urban fantasy military academy second chance enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, magic, danger, and grit, and characters who are dragons/magical/older heroines who've failed at life who are resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with a bond of fire and fury, magic, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, dragons choose riders or kill them, instructors keep dealy secrets about your bloodline, something is hunting bonded Sovereigns and draining them dry, the man training you might be the one ordered to end you, being chosen isn't an honor, it's a target on your back, older heroines who have failed at life, bonds forged with killers, systemic murder conspiracies, found family built on survival, prosecutors who might be jailors, romance where turst could be fatal, high-stakes paranoia that ears its help, chaos/drama, suspense that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a bond of fire and fury and paranormal urban fantasy military academy second chance enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful, dangerous, intriguing, and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blurb for this book sounded so intriguing I couldn’t resist grabbing the ARC when it was offered, and wow am I glad I did because it was fantastic!

The first book in most series, especially fantasy or paranormal genres, always has a significant amount of world building and detail which this book has, but it is compelling and addictive. The backstory of Mara is attention grabbing, child who grew up in the foster care system and then had many career attempt’s and failures. At 32 she is approached about attending Thornwich Academy when she’s at her lowest point.

I loved that the main character isn’t a young girl with no life experience! Mara has struggled and been tested by life so she appreciates the opportunity yet is skeptical enough to question what is taking place. The storytelling is action-packed with dangerous adventures and world building sprinkled throughout. This quickly became addictive and has me glued to my kindle.

This book has me eager for the rest of the series. It ends on a cliffhanger, but not one that will leave readers in shock. The book ends as several of the characters are being sent to a different training facility as a result of what they’ve experienced after bonding with their sovereigns.

While I read fantasy and/or paranormal, it isn’t my main genre, but I loved this book!

I received a free ARC from the author and 1852 Media; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

At 32, Mara’s life has been hard and it still was. The book starts with her in Seattle taking pictures at a wedding and things begin to go totally wrong. But, she takes it all in stride and does her best to continue onward. Learning about all of the things she went through made me cry. Then she meets Staff Sergeant Emilio Rivera (US Army Special Ops Recruiting Command). He offers her a spot at Thornwick War Academy. He noticed how she just kept on going and not giving up or panicking over what she went through that day.

Everything sounds too good to be true- room and board, full training there, career placement, etc. They had already done a background check on her. Learning why there were interested in her besides what had already been said, was amazing. I was fascinated and totally hooked on the book and it had barely started. But, everything is totally Top Secret and everything from there on out is crazy, thrilling, scary, and amazing. There is a whole otherworldly- a magical one, besides our mundane one- The Academy.

Upon her arrival at the Academy, her mind is pretty much blown (our too). There are magical creatures flying around everywhere, known as Sovereigns. She befriends one of the others, Zara Volkov, who is a legacy cadet. They become besties, plus roomies. Mara realizes that there is a reason why she felt like she didn’t fit in, in the mundane world, that she was supposed to be in this one. There are some hazing that they deal with, and it upset me, but with Zara by her side, she helps her new bestie out. Things are freaky from then on out. Magic & Science combine to do a bunch of things that are EPIC! There are so many revelations and I love Mara & Zara. Bonding with the Sovereigns is an exciting and scary thing. Classes and training as well as bonding are dangerous and there is a possibility of death. This brings in some realistic bits as when there is war, there is death and there are always training accidents. We learn so much about the instructors and the main characters.

I cried and freaked out a lot during the book, but it also made me laugh. Mara & Zara’s antics and their sisterhood could be hilarious at times. Obsidian, the Black dragon, is ancient and is scary awesome. We learn there is a HUGE secret at the Academy. Mara is in trouble, but with the help of a few students, including Zara, and some of the instructors, a lot of the trouble is stopped in its tracks.

We find out that not only is Mara needed for her many talents, but once she is bonded, she is even more powerful and a lot of people don’t like it. They are afraid of her, and we all know what happens then - people like to destroy what they don’t understand. Watching all the training the cadets need to go through exhausted me. I found the history of the magical world to be interesting. It truly ticked me off that there were so many who didn’t want the Status Quo to be rocked at all. Mara & Zara’s friendship/ sisterhood is EPIC! As are all of the fight scenes. My fave instructor has to be the hottie, Captain Blackwater. I understood immediately, that all of the instructors are so harsh- because they are what stand between living and dying once they are out there fighting the monsters. The creatures that they are to fight- are nightmares made flesh. I love Obsidian’s bloodthirstiness. Betrayals, mischief and mayhem abound. It ends on a cliffhanger that had me cursing in three languages. I can’t wait for the next book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bond of Fire & Fury is the first book in Trim's The Windtorn Chronicles. This fantasy novel features Mara Sinclair, a 32-year old woman who was brought up through foster care, dropped out of college, and has been unable to find employment where she feels she belongs. When she is approached by a stranger in a coffee shop, he presents her with an opportunity that sounds too good to be true.

Mara ends up accepting his limited-time offer and leaves everything behind when she heads off to attend Thornwick War Academy. It is there that she is made aware of a world hidden from the mundane one where she has been living her entire life. Mara learns that magic is real and mythological creatures such as dragons, phoenixes, griffins, etc... truly exist. She also makes her first friend: Zara Volkov, a legacy student who can educate her on this new and exciting world.

While Mara and Zara attend classes and training, they know they are also there to form a nexus - a bonded pair made of up rider and sovereign. When a nexus is formed, the two have their souls permanently linked allowing them to communicate, know one another's feelings, and share power. They also know that a small percentage of riders do not survive the bonding process which is, in a word, terrifying.

Obsidian, an ancient and powerful dragon, sees Mara and effectively selects her to become his rider. He has only bonded with four riders in his over 200 years at Thornwick, and three of them died during the bonding process. Mara doesn't especially like her odds.

When her instructors start to test her, Mara's results are unexpectedly exceptional. They cannot believe she is a non-legacy however Mara assures them that she never knew her parents nor had she heard of the academy before that stranger in the cafe approached her.

Is there more to Mara than meets the eye? Can she survive the bonding process? You'll have to read the book to find out. I'll give you a hint though... I'm told this is a six book series.

I loved it. While it has elements of other dragon/rider stories, it felt unique. I thoroughly enjoyed Trim's world building and learning about this magical world that exists, hidden from view from those belonging to the mundane world. Mara is a complex character. She has endured a lot in her life, and survived much. Still she maintains her heart. I liked her inner fortitude as well as her positive attitude. Trim introduced multiple secondary characters and has provided readers with just enough information about them to hold our interest without revealing too much. Some will be friends while others will be foes, and only time will tell.

A Crown of Wings & Wrath is the second book in this series. It is expected to be released towards the end of June. I will be eagerly awaiting in order to know what comes next for Mara.

[Texas · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE WINDTORN CHRONICLES:
A BOND OF FIRE AND FURY, #1 - What a good start to a new series. Intriguing story lines, an interesting variety of characters, and plenty of action. Source: Booksprout. 5*

TWISTED SISTERS MIDLIFE MAELSTROM:
Source: Booksprout.
PACKING SERIOUS MAGICAL MOJO - I love this author and am unhappy that I didn't start this series in 2022. There are many books in this series now. Six sisters that get along well, each with her own strengths, a bit of magic and ghosts, and plenty of humor. Fun characters, interesting story lines and a good pace made for a relaxing, entertaining way to while away a couple of hours. Source: The author. 5*

GRIS-GRIS & GRAVEYARD GHOSTS, #15 - Having only read the first book of this series, it didn't matter that I missed books two through fourteen. This book had me immersed in the intriguing story lines, interesting characters, and fast-paced happenings. It doesn't matter the series, Ms. Trim is a kick-a## storyteller. 5*

SANTIAGO SORCERY & STREETCAR SECRETS, #16 - This book just grabbed me from the get go. Ms. Trim has a talented that doesn't abate. Plenty of everything, goo s characters, good story lines, and action. 5*
TWISTED SISTERS MIDLIFE MAELSTROM end.

FORTY, FIRED, & FIGHTING DEMONS Series:
Source: Booksprout.
SECRETS OF SALTCLIFF, #1 - I've read other books by Ms. Trim and this book is just as funny and entertaining. Good characters, although I did get tired of Eliza's mouth here and there, especially, in dangerous situations. Good story lines. Good humor. Good action. Plenty of magic. No vulgar language or sex. An intro paragraph to the next book is included, which reads like a lot more fun is on the way. 4*

THE WITCH'S FIXER UPPER, #2 - I hurt myself laughing throughout this book. But I was so immersed in the intrigue, the action and the lifestyle of this family and friends. Good suspense, ya know they're gonna win but just how .... Mimi is a trip, but she has the right to be sumting udder else. Good story lines. Great characters. Don't read the intro to the third book; it's not available yet, so you'll be sorry, I am. Drats. 5*

HAMMERS & HEXES, #3 - One. thing Ms. Trim can do is write an action filled book with good characters, intriguing story lines, and plenty of opened cans of whoopbutt. Complex, but with good humor, and plenty of unexpected surprises made for a fun read. Small use of vulgar language. 5*

AT THE GATES OF HELL, #4 - This addition does not disappoint. The ending is not a cliffhanger but there's more to come. Good characters. Good story lines. Good action and pace. 4*
FORTY, FIRED, & FIGHTING DEMONS End.

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

WARNING! Cliffhanger! This is an odd cliffhanger. The original story ends on a big cliff, but the intro to the next story, included at the end, takes us off of it, only to deliver us into a softer cliffhanger. If you don’t read the excerpt, it’s a 5/5 on the trauma scale, but if you read the excerpt, it’s a 3/5!

Mara always thought that she was a repeat offender in the failures of her life, never quite fitting in, never having a family or friends.
Then she is asked to join a military academy, where her unique adaptation skills are a benefit.
It’s only upon arrival that she realises that the academy is a magical one, and that the cadets are partnered with magical beings like dragons, griffins, phoenixes, and pegasi, while training to fight in a magical war.

Mara is tough. She’s older than the other cadets, and significantly more street smart. She’s also learning that there is a lot more to her heritage than she knew, and it is very important for the world in which she finds herself. There’s a lot of upending of what our heroine thinks and believes, so it’s a good thing she adapts to change well.
She also manages to find some important friends, who might just be what helps her stay alive, especially when she discovers herself bonding with a very dangerous dragon.

This is a fast paced, actioned filled story, with an intriguing premise, and an entertaining setup. The ongoing story promises to keep the reader interested beyond this book, and I look forward to seeing what happens next!

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the spirit of Fourth Wing, among others, Brenda is writing us a series about dragon riders, as well as phoenix, griffin, and pegasus riders. Mara Sinclair is a survivor of numerous foster homes, a college dropout, and, at thirty-two, a failure at numerous jobs. When she is approached at a coffee shop by a man who said he knew exactly where she will fit right in she is, needless to say, skeptical. It sounds sketchy as hell. Thornwick War Academy? Never heard of it. But it includes room and board and an actual salary. Apparently her 'adaptability', along with her situational assessment skills, will work in her favor. Since her latest job ended when she dropped her camera into a puddle and her rent is due, she decides any port will do in her current crap storm. But she is not ready for dragons and magic. What has she agreed to?

I'm not going to try to tell you the story. You need to experience that for yourself. Suffice it to say, Mara discovers things about herself she never dreamed of. She also finds 'her people', along with the baddest dragon in the academy skies. This is the beginning of her story...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sabrina Mordini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating:⭐⭐⭐
Spice:🚫

A Bond of Fire and Fury is the first book in The Windtorn Chronicles series.

This book had a lot of elements that I really liked, like the FMC not being a teenager, or the lack of a huge info dump at the beginning. We get to see the world building step by step with the FMC, discovering new things as needed.

The pace of the narrative is also pretty fast, with danger that keeps coming page after page, without a dull moment. While this kept the tension high, it also made things feel rushed, and I often felt a bit disoriented, like I missed something and had to go back and check again.
There's a lot happening in just over seven days, and the whole thing felt forced after a while.

What really broke the narrative for me, however, is the way the new powers were handled. With no time to learn anything, the FMC is simply capable of doing things never heard before, without training or failure. Slowing down the narrative and leaving time to organically develop relationships, abilities and background stories would have made this book a lot better.

Overall, this was an interesting first book for a new series. There's a lot of material to build upon, and I'm curious to see where we'll go from here.

[Diana Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mara starts her story as a 32 year old female who knows nothing about the magical world, as far as she’s concerned dragons are from books and movies, not real life Kael Blackwater and Obsidian ( a dragon) quickly prove her wrong ! This is a fast paced story full of history, adversity, death and magic. I loved these characters and the storyline is full of magical creatures that are both good and evil, it takes place on a military base that supposed to get cadets ready to bond with their “partner”, to survive the fast paced bond that allows them to fly on the backs of these beasts to protect the in between spaces of humanity and magical realms. Mara quickly learns that nothing is as it seems and trust is in short supply. There is minimal to no romance, but I think as the series continues there might be something brewing between Kael and Mara ! The past and future are completely knotted together and it will be interesting to see how it all plays out. 4✨’s and I can’t wait for book 2 !.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Bond of Fire & Fury is a first book of a projected six book series and this first promises many sleepless nights to come.
I enjoyed this Romantasy that features dragon riders, a military academy, political intrigue, suspense, magic, secrets, mystery, royal bloodlines, and found family.
MFC Mara is a thirty two year old who has had many life failures until finding herself recruited into Thornwick War Academy, and not too long after that being selected by a black dragon called Obsidian as his new rider. She has two weeks to train with him and come through it alive!
A wonderfully entertaining story that was nicely written, has great characters, and plenty of excitement that keeps the pace smooth and the pages turning fast!
TBC.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LaVonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

FINALLY! An indepth action and adventure story that showcases Brenda Trim's delightful imagination and world building genius.

A Bond of Fire and Fury (Book 1 of the Windtorn Chronicles) leans heavily into our innate need to find our place / to belong. Our heroine is no delicate flower. Now a mature woman, Mara's years in fostercare equipped her for a life she never imagined she'd ever have.

By saying 'yes' to one question, one opportunity, Mara finds herself tested, challenged and bonded with magic. By accepting her identity, Mara embarks on a new adventure that's full of twists, turns and surprises. And yes... a slow burn love story.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself eagerly devouring each chapter. I am truly looking forward to reading book 2.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not usually one to read romantasy stories, however, this book caught my eye and I'm glad it did. I really enjoyed the story, imagination of the author writing it and the characters.

The characters are well written and well developed. I loved Mara and her strength, her determination, and the kindness in her. She had a hard life, but she didn't let it sour her or make her a mean person, she just decided to make her life what she could and do her best to be a kind human.

Her story was interesting to read and I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I hope her life continues to improve and her strength continues to grow and develop into the person she's meant to be.

[Slene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ever since Anne McCaffrey's dragon riders series and Eragon, I've always been fascinated with dragons and concepts of dragons riders. I was very excited when I saw the synopsis of this book. The author did a great job building the characters and storyline. It was easy to get reeled in and very difficult to stop or take breaks as you just want to keep reading to find out more. I really enjoyed the book but now that I finished it....the hard part sinks in.......have to wait for the next book! >o<. I would recommend giving this book a go.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Robbiega · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a series about Dragon, Phoenix, Griffin, and Pegasus riders. Mara Sinclair has failed all her life. She went through numerous foster homes, is a college dropout, and failed at numerous jobs. So, when she is offered a place at Thornwick War Academy she accepts it even though it sounds suspicious. After all it includes room and board as well as an actual salary.
This is a wonderful story with interesting characters. Brenda Trim is a very good imaginative author and I highly recommend all her series. I think this new one just maybe my favorite of them all!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tutsie Kativhu · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is fast paced and non stop action, literally. It's as if the gang can't catch a break and everything happens so quickly that a story that feels like it happens over months all happens in less than one. If you are an adrenaline junkie then this story is for you, it helps that there are dragons too (wink)! It's a great escape into fantasy with a very slow burn hint at romance. Great supporting characters and an unending supply of bad guys with misplaced loyalties. Hoping the second book brings a lot more answers for the confusion the first book left us in. Reads like an epic adventure!.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense and captivating!
I'm loving this new crop of older heroines! Poor Mara hidden in the human world and no knowledge of who or what she truly is! Kind of a rude introduction to the world where she came from. I really like how they chose her, but by the end was it really random?? A lot of information is dumped on her in a short period of time but she steps up to the job like a champ! Lover her obstinate dragon an her new bestie, Zara! Her little circle of friends is interesting but they may have a traitor amongst them.... Can't wait for the next adventure in this story!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jodie Cary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 1 of a new series from this author, and I was hooked from the start. I loved reading this story, I love the characters and the storyline. An exciting story with Dragon Riders, and even Phoenix, Griffen and Pegasus Riders. A great story to read, I couldn't put it down. It does end on a cliffhanger, but thankfully the author adds an excerpt to the next book. I do like a softer cliffhanger while I wait for the next book. I love this author and I love everything she writes.
I can't wait to read the next book! AWESOME read!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila Schoenauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honest opinion? If I could give this half star ratings I would rate it at 3.5 stars. The beginning was to slow and confusing. They there was way to much information thrown at you and WAY to much craziness happening in the span of 24 hours. It became a little to much and I was over it before the book was even done. I wanted more romance and less crazy action. We get a kiss. One kiss! ugh.. I'm not sure if it's worth continuing the series.

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical Bonding

One day Mara is a woman that has bounced from foster homes like she was a disease and the next moment she is thrust into a world of magic and the unknown. Bonding to a black dragon and learning of her heritage is just the beginning as betrayal lurks in the shadows and a war brews. Can she sniff or the lies and corruption before it is too late. Well I cannot wait to find out in the next installment.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LIBBY Hardel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing book! From page one until the last page, I just kept reading and reading and reading! Great characters, a story that honestly kept me guessing, and a story that gets to the point and doesn't have like 200+ pages of unnecessary crap. I appreciate that. I'm a fan of Mercedes Lackey for 40 years now and I saw many similarities between her Valdemar and the Herald/Companion thing in this book and I found that extra incentive to love this book. I highly recommend this book to everyone!

[Christine Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenda Trim has done it again. Wonderful. I don't usually read academy books as they tend to be for younger readers.. Brenda's book is full of so much drama and mystery. Mara has fallen on hard times, nothing has ever been easy in her life. This is an opportunity that could be the making of her. Only if she survives.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I find with a lot of newer books coming out there is a lack of information with world building and having work.... Not with this book! This book gives you the understanding of how bonding and magic works! I also love how mythical creature You don't typically find in books or used! I also love that the FMC isn't an 18- year old! Can't wait to read the next one!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bond of Fire & Fury Book 1 of The Windtorn Chronicles by Brenda Trim is another hit from this talented author. I'm loving this midlife heroine with a dragon rider twist, not the usual but so much more from Ms. Trim, how does she do it?! I have no clue, but I'll keep reading whatever she puts out as I love her writing so much and really enjoy being immersed into her worlds. Highly recommend!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I swear I don't know where this author gets her inspiration or imagination but every single book I've read of hers has been outstanding. This series just makes me speechless - I'm having a difficult time describing how good this book is. I can't wait to read the next one. Fantasy, magic, everyday people, creatures, it just never stops!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacy Stephenson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story but the only fourth wing vibe is a military school with Dragons. This has way more magical creatures as well as very different structures. Also this author doesn’t spend much time meeting the characters but gives just enough to understand who they are for the plot which I’m okay with. The overall story is complex and I’m not clear on any of it but that’s why there is more than one book.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that Ms. Trim's characters are a bit older. A bit more relatable for this reader!
Though I wish I were still in my early twenties, alas, I am not!

This was an exciting start to a dark fantasy series, and I'm clamoring for book two!

Fantastic characters.
Action-packed.
Suspenseful!

[Vanessa Sylvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Windtorn Chronicles. What I love most about this story is the author feeds you clues and invites you along for the journey that will captivate and entertain you along the way. I was hooked by the first chapter and cannot wait for the next in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sissy Satterfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mara & Obsidian
I loved that Mara is older and it makes her character so much easier for me to relate to! Bonding with Obsidian is a total chef's kiss to this amazing story! I am truly excited to see where this series takes us. Looking Forward to the next book!!! I Absolutely Loved It!!! No Spoilers!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An wonderful start to a series, with the chosen one trope, dragons, gryphons, phoenixes, magic and evil trying to destroy the world. The characters are interesting and the world is well developed. The plot is full of drama and excitement and sets up for a great continuing story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.