Nicole Conway is originally from North Alabama and attended Auburn University. She is happily married and enjoys writing as a full time career.
Best known for her international bestselling fantasy series, THE DRAGONRIDER CHRONICLES - Nicole is currently working on a follow-on series, THE DRAGONRIDER LEGACY. Her other published works include MAD MAGIC, THE DISTANCE BETWEEN STARS, SCALES (Releasing Spring 2019), and RENEGADE RUNNER (2021).
Nicole is represented by Fran Black of Literary Counsel.
YA/Teen Dark Fantasy | Coming-of-age | Feminine Rage | Small but Fierce | Forced Proximity | High-Stakes
'If I was going to make my way through this world, I had to adapt. No matter what the cost.' (Ch 6)
Again, engrossing! Heart-hammering and action-packed! Violet, her little baddy self, back to kicking butt with a vengeance! ... and charm?! And hmm... potential love triangle... Team Declan or Team Axien (at 40% at the time of writing this bit of my review, I'm undecided 🤣).
'We stared at one another for what felt like an eternity— like the entire world had frozen around us. The noise of the raging crowd seemed to fade. Everything else was just a blur of color.' (Ch 15)
But Axien was so frustratingly confusing! Hot one minute, cold the next. Just wanted to wring his neck sometimes... er a lot. Like, what are you playing at, guy?! Can you stop confusing my girl (and me) with your oscillating moods?!
'“You’ve been wondering what gets me off? Naughty girl. And here I thought we were going to keep things strictly professional.”' (Ch 23)
And poor Violet, having to deal with so much disdain, bigotry, and prejudice. In turn, she had many insecurities and trust issues because of it. Axien's behaviors didn't help either.
'I had to play the game. I had to pick my next move carefully. One false move… and someone I cared for might pay the ultimate price.' (Ch 11)
She was fierce. She was loyal. She would fight and kill and maim to her very last breath.
Just like the first book in this series, I seriously could not put this book down! I jumped right back into what was happening and felt that the author did a great job bringing the reader back into her world without just blandly summarizing what happens in the first book. I was hooked again immediately with her method of storytelling and her ability to create such a well-thought-out world!
I am already looking forward to reading the next book in the sequel!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ugh this book could have been a 5⭐ for me! I enjoyed the previous entry, but with this one, I was obsessed from the start. It kicked right off, and I remembered the characters and premise well enough to feel immediately driven in. I loved how Violet grew and changed. Then, disaster happened. This is on me, but I loathe love triangles: I have a penchant for getting hooked on the "wrong" guy, and this time, it was no different. It was a sour disappointment, but the worst part for me was when the whole premise turned into the trope "this guy is toxic as a can of tuna, but no matter how many times he screws me over and betrays me, he's too attractive to stay mad". I HATE it. It takes so much agency away from a female protagonist. And no, I don't believe a traumatic past justifies bad behaviour. I ended up skimming through the last 80% of the book because of it. I don't know at this point if I will read the next one... I had high expectations for this one, and I'm left disappointed.
4.5 ⭐️. I received this book as an arc and was so excited to continue violets story after finishing the first in the series. There were many plot twist and action to keep me wanting to hurry and then the next page. Even through a hectic time in my life I kept thinking about what was going to happen next and any free time I had to continue the book. The side characters and side plots were a great addition and I hope there is more of Declan. Roxus is always a favorite of mine. I loved violets growth in this one and seeing her becoming more confident was a joy. I do wish she was better at expressing her feelings to one new character in particular and visa versa. I hope there is more to follow for all of the characters. ❤️
This book was received in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
4.6 stars
Violet’s slow-burn journey picks up the pace in this thrilling sequel.
It's been two years since Violet's initiation into the Zenith's Call. A lot has changed since she was picked up off the street by her kindly mentor Roxus: She has a house, she has a purpose, and she's, ah, somewhat well-mannered. But also a lot hasn't changed: she's been training two years with no hint of a mission, and, still, no one in the order seems to trust her. Until that changes, too. Just when Violet thinks she's getting what she wants, she learns the cost: the new mission won't be just her and Roxus; she'll also have to put up with Roxus’ catty old friend and her tandem, Arx Erburna's half-elven golden boy, the one who seems to be stalking her around the halls. But if Violet doesn’t learn to get along, well, the fate of the world will be at stake. Is trust what the world needs. . . or could it be its very downfall?
Overall, this story made for a more exciting read than Book One. The prose was very well executed (most well-written Conway book yet!), and I sympathized with Violet even when I didn't agree with her actions. The new characters were intriguing even when they weren't likable, and I was encouraged to read more to find out about them.
As for the plot, the main story seemed to be bookended with extra material to set up Book 3, but there was enough action and plot twists to carry me along greedily. There were a couple points I still don't quite understand, and I hope they will be explained later.
While the cover hints at some romance, the spice level stays perfectly appropriate for teens and young adults. However, the action is heavier in this installment than the series opener, so readers should prepare for intense violence, though without too much graphic description.
Verdict: If you liked the first book, you must continue Violet's story. If you didn't like the first book. . . maybe you were just waiting for the action found here.
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author and am leaving an honest review. This is book 2 in a series and as usual Conway doesn’t disappoint. Violet and the supporting characters are well-developed and lovable. The plot is action packed, interesting, and unique. There were many moments of laughter as well as moments that tugged on my heart. I kept turning the page wanting to know more. Even though the plot is definitely interesting enough in its own to keep me entertained, it’s really the characters that drive the plot forward and make this book deserve all five stars. I love caring so much about the characters that I will follow them through whatever plot their decisions take them through, and Conway is a master of creating realistic characters that will keep you coming back for more. I’m excited to read the next book in the series so I can learn more about Violet and her companions!
I did love the connection to the last dragon rider series.
I have to say their miscommunications were slightly frustrating but also understandable. She's 16 and has trauma. He's ___ (idk) and has trauma. They're both confused and don't know how to communicate yet. I'm hopeful for the next one.
I have to say though that I was a bit scared about the spice level. There were a couple times I thought it was going to be inappropriate and I would have to put it down.
Spice level 4 - tension and heavy described kissing Innuendos Non-sympathetic murder
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. We met Visha in the previous book at a vipiri who joined the zenith call and was betrayed by her friend. In this book Visha is sent to a woman who specializes in helping females become vixen so to speak. Ugh its not smtg Visha wants to do but for a mission she will. Roxus and her are joined by another member of thr call, Sanja and an half avorian Axien. Both are not fond of Visha bc of what she is but for thr sake of the mission she will keep her tongue. Axien is a mystery to Visha and he is hot and cold with her that makes her head spin. They are on a mission to bring back an ancient magical staff and they run into complications along the way. Visha must keep her wits about her as nothing is as it seems. There are forces at work against her and it will only get worse. Drama, deciet, betrayal and omg moments make this a good book.
This is a fantastic fantasy. We have all the required elements—a quest, different supernatural beings working together, betrayal and true friendship. Our main character is a Viperi not exactly a well-loved type of supernatural being, with a few extra skills of her own. Then her love interest is a half-breed with his own unique abilities. Of course, our woman is never quite sure if he can trust him or not, which just makes this story even more interesting. Off they go on their quest, along with their mentors of course. I truly loved this story. The writing style is perfect for this type of fantasy, the characters are truly complex and not one-dimensional. The world building was just right as well. The quest is not an easy one and of course, if they fail, the consequences would be dire. This story is one I highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.” Oath of Moonlight offers fantasy at its finest, presenting a compelling narrative complete with all the requisite elements: a perilous quest, collaboration among diverse supernatural beings, elements of betrayal, and profound demonstrations of true friendship. The central character is a Viperi, a largely unloved supernatural entity possessing unique skills. Her love interest is a complex half breed with his own distinct abilities, introducing a layer of captivating uncertainty regarding his trustworthiness. The story effectively builds tension as the pair embarks on their quest alongside their mentors. The writing style is perfectly suited for the genre, featuring complex, multi-dimensional characters and immersive world-building. The high stakes of the challenging quest, with dire consequences for failure, make this an easy story to recommend. 💛
The book was fantastic! Violet is rapidly becoming a formidable character; her development in this installment is both convincing and thrilling. With a newly acquired skill that reshapes how she navigates danger, Violet’s arc hints at even greater power to come. I’m excited to see how she continues to evolve.
This installment kept me on the edge of my seat. There were several moments that left my jaw on the floor: twist after twist, each one landing in ways I never saw coming. The pacing and revelations were expertly handled, keeping momentum while deepening character relationships and stakes.
If you enjoy morally complex protagonists, high-stakes action, and surprising plot turns, this book delivers. I can’t wait for book three!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What an absolutely brilliant follow up! As an avid reader of Nicole Conway's dragon series, when my daughter and I heard that there was going to be a book based upon the character Violet, we were super excited. The first book had the same frenetic pace, twists and turns and character depth as series and getting an insight in to Violet's background was awesome. Book 2 takes it up another level! Learning more about our favourite pitathi, more about the maniacal Tibrans, embarking on an adventure right the way across this wonderful world and some amazing fight and battle sequences, it's just so much fun. Once you get going, you can't put it down and now I want to go back and read the connected series again... abslutely love it and my daughter and I throughly recommend it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She does it again. Great book. If you’re into the underdog, magic and fond family this is your book.
I enjoyed ready this book. The series keeps getting better. I would have finished this book quicker if it wasn’t for all my jobs. Adulting is annoying most times.
The story starts slow. 30% in it starts picking up and does not disappoint at all. Violet is still my girl and even more of a bad ass. We get more villains in this story. I called it for the start We get more great characters as well.
There was plot, growth and family. I will be following this series until the end.
Violet, Roxus, and the Zenith’s Call are back with another chaotic adventure. We finally get to see Violet in action as she goes out on her first real mission for the Call. Oath of Moonlight takes us through young “love”, betrayal, and becoming comfortable in your own skin. I think Violet is her harshest critic, but it’s nice to see so many people throughout this book show her that being a Viperi and a good person can be the same thing. She’s one of my favorite anti-heroes and I can’t wait for her next adventure!
Nicole Conway has once again stolen my heart with her spellbinding writing talent. Violet’s journey is so trying I swear I experienced every emotion possible alongside her. Roxus remains the guardian who is a mix between big brother and father figure, and I love their relationship so much. How she handles Sanja coming into the picture… well, I can’t say I blame her. Axien, well let’s just say I’m still rooting for him in book three!
This book was definitely a page turner for me. I couldn't wait to read what happened next. Violet definitely went through a lot, felt feelings she's never felt before, and got herself into some pretty harrowing situations. If you're looking for a book with adventure and action, this is a book for you. You definitely need to read the first book first though, or you will be lost in this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. I can’t say enough great things about this incredibly exciting series. Gripping from the first page, the unpredictable twists and turns, the breath holding action packed scenarios, and the rollercoaster of emotions felt as the plot unfolds keeps you glued to the pages! Violet is given her first assignment as a member of Zenith’s Call and it sure is a fast paced ride that makes this story unputdownable. I can’t wait for more!.
Another intriguing, action packed book in this series. Peeling back the layers of Violet and her past to get to know her better is really fascinating. I'm looking forward to seeing where her story goes next, and how it will tie into her future. The new characters introduced in this book are interesting and existing characters still have some mystery to them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This second book in the series of Empire of Blades is as intense as the first. The world is so in depth and the characters are riveting. I found Violet's growth throughout the book intriguing. Yet, the love triangle was an issue I straddled on the fence with. Sometimes it was good and other times I was screaming at the screen. Yet, does Axien help or hinder Violet on the journey to finding the Moonscape Staff? You tell me!
Oath of Moonlight is packed with action, conflict, the angstiest angst I've ever read between two characters, and I could not get enough! I LOVE Violet so much, and so badly want to give her a hug while also telling her to go kick a** against her haters. Nicole Conway truly delivered on this second book, and I am DYING to get my hands on the next one to find out what happens next!.
I recieved an ARC copy of this book from the author, and am leaving this review in exchange.
It's a good book! I wasn't a huge fan of the romance, but it was cool to see Violet overcome new challenges. The best part was definitely seeing characters from the other books come over here. So many tidbits of lore that really put things together.
I enjoyed this book. Violet doesn't shrink from a fight or danger. There's lots of twists and turns in this second book and it keeps you guessing. Conway writes some very good characters and they will steal your heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As always Nicole Conway delivers! She takes you inside the characters and shows their troubles, weaknesses, and vulnerability, then she shows you their strength, perseverance, and their heart. Can’t wait for the next book in this series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Violet has been working hard and finally gets to go on a mission. But of course things do not go as planned and led to a fun story. Loved the drama, surprises and fun of it all. Violet gets a quest and I enjoyed watching her interactions with Axien and survive it all. Good story and fun characters and situations to survive.
I loved the story line in book two; the back and forth of emotions, the learning and growing Violet does alongside Roxus and some new characters. Plot twists kept me reading as fast as I could!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book! Axien is so swoony, and his budding relationship with Violet is so fun. The plot twists were fantastic, and the new world elements were enthralling. I just wanted to read all day!