The Bargain of Dragons

The Aelfyn Archives #4

by Samantha Amstutz

Dragon fire remade them—yet the coming storm may still shatter what remains.

After surviving an encounter with a race long thought extinct, Serenna, Jassyn, Lykor, and their companions rise as druids, bearing a boon powerful enough to tip the balance of a dying world.

To wield it, they must first master the power of Cinderax’s gift before setting their sights on the next imprisoned dragon—Skylash, chained within the Crackling Maw, where lightning devours the sky itself.

But across the world, the king hasn’t been idle. His armies march through the newly uncovered realms, hunting the remaining dragons. If Skylash falls, her elemental might will belong to the crown. Her freedom becomes a desperate race against war, ruin, and a tempest gathering fast enough to imprison them all.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance, Spicy

510 pages, Paperback

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

Samantha Amstutz is the author of the Aelfyn Archives based in South Carolina with roots in Indiana. She is inspired by Wheel of Time, World of Warcraft, The Elder Scrolls Online, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Stargate, Star Trek, and the entire romantasy genre. In her novels, you can expect (multiple) immersive magic systems, different races, plot and intrigue, slow-burn romance, diversity and inclusion, and believable characters with flaws.

She is honored and beyond thrilled you're reading her work and she hopes something in her created world resonates with yours.

Reviews

[RedFireLady Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶 1/2

First off.. AMAZING!
This series just gets better and better with every new book. The Alefyn Archives is one of my top tier series that I will never stop recommending, and The Bargain of Dragons just solidified that even more.

What's inside:
💔 Emotional Damage
😞 Past Trauma
🐲 Dragons
⚔️ Epic Battles
🔥 Slow Burns start BURNING
💏 Fated Bonds
🔻 Love Triangle
👑 Corrupt King
😆 Banter
👥 Shadow Daddies
🪄 Unique Magic System
🔀 Plot Twists
🏥 Healing
😓 More Trauma
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Multi-POV
🌶 Spice

There was so much to process when I finished this book that I had to wait until then next day to even write this review... I am going to try to do justice to this amazing book.

The Aelfyn Archives is an epic dark fantasy romance that gets darker as it goes. There is so much trauma, past and present, that it really takes time to get through it all with these complex characters and the amazing character development that we experience. The world building is intricate and well done. The storyline is beautiful, painful, well planned and dynamic. I could not put this book down because it had me on the edge of my seat the entire time... and even now, the next day, I am still thinking back to what I just experienced with this book.

With The Bargain of Dragons we get to see some healing - some recovery from everything these characters have gone through. I held onto hope, I laughed and I hurt. I smiled and I gasped... and I cried. I really just stared at the wall for a few minutes when I finished, just trying to take it all in.

Samantha does an amazing job of really highlighting the cost of war and change. The sacrifices that are required, the compromises and tough choices - that sometimes you get the desired outcome but you still dont really "win". She shows how love is a choice we make everyday and sometimes it comes with risk, and that trust is earned.. and sometimes you have to keep earning it over and over to help someone to feel safe.

The progression of the characters and the story from the first book to this fourth book is stellar. This is a complex, epic story like Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones or Throne of Glass. It shows that freedom isn't free and that it is earned and comes at a cost. It highlights how doing the right thing and standing up for what is right can sometimes be the hardest thing you've ever done, and that maybe you won't be there to to celebrate what you fought so hard to earn, but you still fight anyway.

READ THIS SERIES.

Thank you to Samantha Amstutz for an ARC of this amazing book 🥰

[Allison Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bargain of Dragons was one of those books I couldn’t put down. I DEVOURED it in 2 days 😅
This story is action packed from start to finish. You can expect fully immersive battles, danger, political tension, romantic tension 🔥 and constant forward momentum throughout the book. There isn’t a boring moment. It is fast paced and I felt like I was there living it all. The dragon scenes were intense and had me sweating at the edge of my seat 😅 I LOVED the dragons in this book and what they can do (no spoilers).
This is a unique why choose romance and tastefully done. The complex dynamic is beautiful in its own way. The relationships felt much more developed and more layers were added on. There was real growth among all the characters, romantic tension, and strengthening bonds. This book is very spicy and unlike anything else I have read 🥵
The magic system in this series was already incredibly developed and unique but it expands so much more in an interesting way throughout this book.
There is also real emotional weight in this book as seen previously as well. No spoilers but the author isn’t afraid to let the story hurt when it needs to which makes it feel more personal and real.
The ending was completely unexpected and beautifully sets up for the last book of the series. This is not your copy and paste romantasy. The romance, plot, world building, and magic system are all beautifully unique and it won’t feel like you have already read this one 🙌🏻

[Meg (fantasybook.adventurer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨The Bargains of Dragons✨

From book one, Sam has taken me through all my emotions and, at book 4, she continues to do so. I’m still sitting here shaking my head after that ending, trying to get my stomach to unknot and my heart to not break.

Book 4 begins right where we left off after book 3, The Shadows of Stars. This far in, I don’t want to give away spoilers, so I’m gonna keep it mostly to vibes! And those vibes are MOVING. Not just in pacing but in healing. We see soooo much growth between our triad (Fenn, Serenna, Vesryn) and my two favorite broody boys (Jassyn & Lykor). Acceptance, empowerment, and self-forgiveness are so bright within these pages and I found myself enjoying the dynamics between our MFM romance but FALLING EVEN MORE IN LOVE with how Jassyn and Lykor revolve around each other. Both with different yet equally deeply tragic trauma, the way these two hold space for each other was so achingly beautiful. They take center stage for me.

I found the story intriguing and intricate as we also continue to grow the world building as well as the magic scale and dragon hierarchy. Chaos REIGNS in this book, each moment on the precipice of erupting and giving in all at the same time. And that ending… Sam… I have FEELINGS and they’re NOT OK. 🙈🙈 my babies. I just don’t know how I’m going to wait!! But I do know that after this book’s setup, it is going to be EPIC.

Tropes you may find in TBOD are fated and chosen bonds, MFM & MM, slow burn finally beginning to 🔥, medium spice, dragons, elemental magic, WINGS, plot twists, FMC and MMC stepping into their power, “breathe”, banter, found family, “I’m here”, and a painful cliffhanger.

Sam, it’s such a joy to continue to arc read for you and this series. Thank you for the opportunity!

[Jessica Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fucking diabolical. 👏🏼

𝐓𝐋;𝐃𝐑 - This is a heart attack inducing rollercoaster of chaotic intensity in the form of a magical war to end all wars, with the odds very much stacked *against* the good guys, because of course they are, BUT there are cute baby dragons… So, there’s a chance? 🥲

𝘚𝘶𝘣𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘈 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 🫰🏼🫰🏼

🐉 𝗕𝗮𝗯𝘆 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝘀
⭐️ 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗙𝗠
🐉 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀
⭐️ 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮
🐉 𝗠/𝗠 & 𝗠/𝗙 🌶️
⭐️ 𝗺𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶-𝗣𝗢𝗩
🐉 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝗰 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀
⭐️ 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰
🐉 𝗦𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻

“𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘴, 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥’𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”

Okay, but first the 𝓻𝓸𝓶𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮.

𝗠/𝗠 - I have waited my entire life for these two, I swear. They’ve been stumbling through the dark, searching for each other without knowing it for so long… Just two broken souls, reaching for salvation… So, let me just say.
FINALLY.
My life is now complete. 🥹

𝗠/𝗙/𝗠 - or will it be MMF? 👀
Are we getting ⚔️ in the future? Or are they going to keep their distance in the bedroom?!
𝗜 𝗛𝗔𝗩𝗘 𝗤𝗨𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦. 🔥🔥🔥
Either way, I AM HERE FOR IT. I love this dynamic so much. The banter between the males is everything and I am absolutely in love with this unlikely little triad.

📣 Also Samatha, consider this your formal warning.
LEAVE MY POOR SWEET FENN ALONE!! 😭💔
𝑶𝒓 𝒆𝒍𝒔𝒆. 🤨

Ahem. Moving on…

We are at 𝐰𝐚𝐫 my friends. Once again Samantha is trying to kill me by spiking my cortisol levels. 💁🏼‍♀️
𝕊𝕙𝕚𝕥 𝕚𝕤 𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘.
Without giving away too much- everything is happening, everywhere. Every possible problem is coming to a head, and our crew is desperate to find all of the pieces of the impossible puzzle that is their reality, to shut that shit down. It’s quite literally non stop action.
𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞 𝐮𝐩, 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬.

Also, the dragons are *so* much fun. 🤩 It felt like a special little treat every time I learned a little more about the various types and what they can do. 🐉

Now, for that ending… 🧗
Why do you hate us Samantha?
𝑾𝑯𝑨𝑻 𝑫𝑰𝑫 𝑾𝑬 𝑫𝑶 𝑻𝑶 𝒀𝑶𝑼?!
Because that ending was CRUEL 😭

𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝘂𝘁𝘇, 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 👩‍⚖️ 𝗣𝗼𝗽𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 - 𝗔 𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗻𝘀. ☠️

For the love of everything that I hold dear, 𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒 𝒻𝒶𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇, because my heart cannot take waiting for resolution. 🙏🏼
(Take your time, your mental health matters)
But just know, I’ll be here, twitching on the floor until I have book 5 in my hands.
Because I am broken.
🫠

Thank you to Samantha Amstutz for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Deirdre · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eARC directly from the author and this is my honest review.

Favorite quote from the book: “Let me burn for you. Better ash at your side than breath without you.” 😭😭

- 🤩 multiple POVs
- MFM continues 🤩
- ❤️ MM
- dragons 🐉
- 🪄 complex world and magic systems
- trauma 🔪
- 🤜🏻🤛🏻 fighting to do the right thing
- BRUTAL last 15% 😱
- 🤯 So many cliffhangers

Overall, this was a great book and I am excited for the last book!

BEFORE READING THIS BOOK: My biggest recommendation is: read or reread book 3 immediately before starting this book. There is so much world building, magic, different species, and storyline to the series. Picking this series up after a year, I forgot a lot of the nitty gritty details and was super confused in the first two chapters. In order to be updated, I reopened book 3 and read the last few chapters. I also went through the Guide & Summary at the beginning of this book a few times for reminders. I don't remember being confused about the complexities of this series when reading book 3; therefore, I have to note that the amount of world building done in the first three books was well done, I just forgot a bit of it since it's been a year. I remembered a lot of the big details, romances, trauma, etc; yet, I needed a reminder about many of the small details and nuances.

What I loved about this book- the characters and relationships. Samantha creates such depth to the different characters and relationships, keeping them interesting and real.

- Fenn. Oh, Fenn. He is by far one of my favorite characters. I am so glad the author created him, even though he was not planned to be in this series. He stays his witty and his honest self across the books. He is more laid back and fun, and brings lightness, humor, and positivity to the series when all other characters are more serious, reserved, and/or dark. He was direct and blunt, something of which I appreciate in a character. He made Serenna and Vesryn face their relationship issues/avoidance by talking things through. He made them stop being cowards and grow up. He was so supportive of Serenna having complex feelings for someone that was not him. He never shamed her or guilted her for loving Vesryn. He also was not jealous. He really is such a fantastic character. There is a twist with Fenn, Vesryn, and Serenna that I didn't see coming. AND SAMANTHA, REALLY?! SERIOUSLY???!!! Ugh, the author will pull your heart strings THREE different times when it comes to Fenn. That ending…

- This book focused less on Vesryn and Serenna as individuals. There is still a lot of growth for the two, Vesryn being comfortable with Serenna having another partner (Fenn), and Serenna finding her strength as a leader. This book focused more on the overall plot and their role in that plot moving forward. It also focused on the dynamics between Vesryn, Serenna, and Fenn.

- Of note, in general, I am not a huge fan of reverse harem or why choose. However, the author did this quite well and prepared us for this. I love the dynamics between Vesryn, Serenna, and Fenn, as well as how Fenn has another partner. This was done with attention to detail and respectfully, noting there are complexities, and communication and boundaries are needed due to the dynamics of the three.

- Lykor continued to be a complex character, plagued with fear of not being good enough and too weak. He feared failure. Jassyn also continued to be plagued with his trauma. Together they FINALLY started to heal. These characters are complex, messy, and make a ton of mistakes, as well as try to be better, protect others, and make changes after mistakes. I really appreciated the depth written about these two. Chapter 15 when Lykor started to be vulnerable after Jassyn helped heal Lykor’s wings.... Then, when Vesryn walks in on Lykor and Jassyn, Vesryn uses dry humor, I was giggling so much. I loved these scenes. Further, I loved how cautious and honest Jassyn and Lykor were together when they finally had intimate time. Lykor was something akin to a ‘virgin’ and Jassyn was a sexual assault survivor, they were compassionate together. Them together was beautiful and I was so happy this FINALLY happened. They both put their walls down and connected to someone else, for the first time really ever.

AND THAT END! WHAT! I loved how Jassyn was using his strategy mind in that moment. This was proof of how much Jassyn has grown from his trauma. I CANNOT WAIT, I MEAN CANNOT WAIT for Lykor to find out where Jassyn is and COME. FOR. HIM. Those people better WATCH the F**K out.

- The author, again, did an excellent job keeping me on edge. One or two chapters would draw me super into that character's POV and I couldn't wait for what was about to happen, but then the author would end that chapter and go into a whole different POV. Kept me hooked and wanting to read and read to get back to that POV. However, this new POV would be incredibly intriguing, and then I wouldn't want that POV to end. Then, again, bam, the chapter/POV would end and we'd be back to the other POV. Way to keep the reader hooked, Samantha!

- This book is BRUTAL when it comes to how it ended. WOW! I was surprised and shocked. I saw NONE of that happening. Things happen to the world and the people, mind blown.

Why not 5 stars: The plot is quite slow, most of the book. It picks up around 85% and was amazing. My heart was racing and I was so anxious. Then I was scared, sad, and shocked. But, prior to that. I had to push myself to read to get through. It was not like that the whole book, but good chunks of the book I found I was not pulled into the story because a whole lot was not happening.

[Daniela · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPOILIES








From the opening, the stakes are both personal and epic: Serenna’s capture and forced participation in the arena highlights the horrifying consequences of power wielded without conscience, while Jassyn and Lykor race to save lives and navigate impossible moral terrain. The dragons, particularly Skylash and Rimeclaw, are treated as fully realized, sentient beings whose rage, grief, and loyalty are as impactful as any human character. Skylash’s scorched-earth freedom, and the subsequent bargain Serenna makes to give her gifts while preserving the dragon’s family, is a gut-wrenching act of sacrifice and empathy that demonstrates the series’ recurring theme: the cost of doing good in a cruel world.

Meanwhile, Jassyn’s arc continues to break your heart: being forced back into the estate that once exploited him physically and magically underscores the cruelty of systems that treat bodies as tools, showing the true human cost behind magical power and political ambition. Lykor’s steadfastness, both in battlefield heroics and in rescuing civilians, balances the story with moments of hope, while the broader narrative, including the chaos caused by dragons, the dangerous bargains with magical artifacts, and the manipulations of power-hungry rulers, keeps the tension high and the consequences brutally real.

Amstutz excels at showing that heroism is never simple, victory is never clean, and sacrifice is inevitable. Every choice has weight, every battle has collateral, and every act of love carries risk. Characters are morally complex, dragons are living forces of nature, and the world is rich, dangerous, and heartbreakingly beautiful. This is a story about the resilience of the human (and dragon) spirit, the price of freedom, and the courage it takes to do the right thing when the system is designed to break you.

[Lover of books · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book was so good it started a week after the last book ended. and man did these characters go through it. the ending has most of the characters separated and not in great circumstances. I need the next book!!!

[Book Dragon Mac · Rating 5 out of 5]

OVERALL RATING: 5🌟

Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Format: 📱Kindle

Thank you Samantha Amstutz for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review! And thank you for your kindness and understanding for my late ARC review; I love to savor your books!!

"Deep in that ruin, where ash tried to choke the roots of hope, something reach again for flame. The ember hadn't died. Not yet."

Plot 5🌟
There is so much to unpack with this plot. I will not because, well spoilers. This was the most adventurous book. Adventure novels make me so nervous, they can be so boring. But this was FAR FROM. FILE MY FANGS, as Fenn would say, there was so much happening in this!! Love the new world we are exploring, the new magic, the dragons and the druids - all of it. This was so much fucking fun. And the END.
OFNBEOSNGOKDNGLSDGNDGKNN. SAMANTHA.
I am feral for that final book.

Characters 5🌟
I've been loving these characters for four books now, and there is always something more to love in each book. All of them have seen such substantial growth, Serenna is her power and confidence, Jassyn in his confidence and strength, Vesryn in his compassion and sacrifice and Lykor with kind of everything. Fenn, still my favorite book boyfriend 🥰

Writing & Pacing 5🌟
Samantha is seriously one of my favorite writers. Her ability to create an adventure story that is chock-full of fun and excitement is incredible. I was so enthralled the entire time I read. This book took us to another level that I wasn't prepared for last book. She makes the new worldbuilding and magic so easy to read and swallow! Plus, the helpful "where we last saw the characters" seriously needs to be standard in all series!!

Audio Experience N/A

Romance 5🌟
This book was for Jassyn and Lykor 🥰 The SLOWEST burn in this story; the one that is so full of yearning. I am still screaming internally over them. While Vesryn has made it VERY clear he will not be partaking with Fenn, I am secretly hoping for it. Beause Fenn and Serenna are lightening, Vesryn and Serenna are fire. But all three would be, well, lightening and fire!! I have loved the romance in this series for two years now, and it just keeps getting better every book. If you love slow burns and yearning and desire and angst - this is your story.

Plot to smut ratio 5🌟
I think this installment definitely had the most spice; but it still was placed so perfectly and timed so well. I think she really knows how to write the spice to the tone of the moment in the story so it flows perfectly.

Spice Quality 5🌟
Delicious. Absolutely fucking delicious. Samantha has always written the best spice, in my opinion.

Overall Entertainment or Emotional Reactions 5🌟
Love, as always. A favorite series for me. GO READ. RIGHT NOW. It'll make you cry.

[Megan Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨🐉 The Alefyn Archives series is one of my Favorites. In 2025 I read the first 3 books and the series made my top 5 favorite series for not only the year but all around. This is a series I can re-read over and over again and never grow tired of it. Samantha has done an absolute amazing job with world building. This has MFM and MM relationship dynamics between the main characters. She does a great job with writing them as well. I really like the Magic System and the Druids are a unique addition. The fighting scenes are exciting and will keep you on the edge of your seat. There’s several plot twists. Many, I did not see coming.

******Minor Spoilers below*****


This Quote right here!

“There’s nothing to fix. If you truly wanted it, and if I had the power to, I would change it back. But this isn’t a flaw. It’s a mark of endurance. Proof that you survived.”

You’re right. 🥹 I’ll just go cry now.

There were so many other great quotes but that one lingered.

She really created some amazing and lovable characters.

For the MFM. Serenna, Vesryn and my favorite wraith Fenn and their relationship keeps building and growing stronger. Serenna has grown so much in this series, Vesryn as well. They both have changed so much since book one. Now Fenn, he’s perfect. He loves getting under Vesryn’s skin. The way he always pokes at him has me dying.

SAMANTHA, IF ANYTHING HAPPENS TO FENN, I WILL BE INCREDIBLY SAD. I MAY EVEN RIOT! LEAVE MY GUY ALONE!

Jassyn and Lykor’s relationship is such a slow burn being built on trust and healing. The Dynamic between them was so great. Lykor is such a grump but he has a reason to be that way. Jassyn is such a wholesome character, he will always put everyone else before himself. He is a healer in need of healing.

The tension and spice made me squeal and kick my feet in enjoyment. The heat was kicked up several notches. 🌶️🌶️🌶️

The Cliff hanger at the end has me screaming! I went to the next page for the next chapter and immediately yelled “NOOOOO!” out loud. I’m being Serious, I startled my cat.

STARS!! I’m counting down the days to book 5 The Reckoning of Starlight.

Thank you, Samantha, for choosing me to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Andrea Fernández · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the series that keeps on giving. The characters, great; the storyline, amazing; the romance, gorgeous; and chapter 40, perfection.

This series has been one of my favourites since the beginning and every book reaffirms my thoughts.

I’m heartbroken the next will be the last one but I will read anything Samantha Amstutz writes forever.

[Kiki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marked as Spoiler just in case.

Thank you to Samantha Amstutz for the ARC of this book. You never cease to amaze me in this series.

I am wildly in love with these characters. I never thought I could love 5-6 characters in a book at once, but here we are. Our little group are facing the challenges head on in this book. We are getting full battles, political struggles, love triangle issues, and romantic exploration. Let me tell you there were some steamy scenes 🥵, funny banter (as usual), and downright tear worthy scenes.
I love how well Samantha manages the romance with the fantasy and political aspects together. I feel like its all well balanced through this series.

All i gotta say is justice better be served for my boy Jassyn. 😭 my heart aches for the whole gang, but Jassyn deserves the world.

[Matthew Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my freaking god this was SOOOOooooooo bloody good! DRAGONS!!! Need I say more - I figured we might see one or two more and then the rest in the last book, but you'll be surprised how many they actually encounter and interact with and I LOVE it - who doesn't love dragons. Also other scalebound boons?! - heck yeah!

The Maw, and the fleet, the prison, the romance, full bonds, fun new kinds of bonds, stolen moments of peace, epic chaotic battle in the middle of a never-breaking storm that finally breaks, shaman magics, more Sunfire, and soooooooo much more - and that's only mentioning things that are non-spoilery - I'm not even bringing up extremely unwelcome returns of a few particular absolutely terrible people from previous books, a turn I hadn't expected, a loss that hits WAYYYYyyy harder than you'd have expected, or the GIANT BLOODY FLAMING cliffhanger Samanth Amstutz has just absolutely YEETED me over into a chasm deeper than the entirety of the height from the roof of the Malestrom to the seafloor itself duplicated vertically a thousand times! (when you read the book, you'll understand)!!!! God dang it - this was an ARC, which means I have to wait even LONGER than if I'd only read once it was out lol. Now I'll have to impatiently wait to hopefully find, apply for, and be lucky enough to get the ARC for book five if she does one :P

Literally cannot recommend this book, or the series for that matter, enough - I need gorgeous SE hardcovers to buy to physically own, or maybe a GORGEOUS omnibus when book 5 gets done (though that would be a MIGHTY big omnibus at like 4-500+ pages per book, with 5 books, but idc, I'd buy it in a HEARTBEAT!)

If you like dragons, magic, romance, epic plots, amazing settings, characters that burn brighter than the stars that birthed their ancestors and blaze with romance and bonds and friendships that burn with more fire than 1000 burning suns could match, and a couple characters that you LOVE, love, LOVE to hate (I *really* want to use some less than flattering words and profanity to describe people like Ayla, Elashor and his mother, the King, etc - they are TRULY the worst - and this book only reminds you of that), and just an AWESOME read, you need to pre-order/buy this and read it ASAP, STAT, with all possible haste, yesteryear, etc - I have literally read every single book so far on my first read in one setting because I literally can't put it down once I get into the plot!

1000000000000000000/10 stars - cannot wait to see what happens in the last book.

[Alina Bădică · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was incredibly lucky to receive The Bargain of Dragons (The Aelfyn Archives #4) by Samantha Amstutz as an ARC, and I need to say this upfront: this review is completely honest and not influenced by receiving the book. I have read all three previous installments, each of them a solid five star read for me, so my expectations were high… and this book delivered.
One thing I really appreciated was the short recap at the beginning of the book. It helped ease back into the story and magic systems without feeling repetitive, which made the reading experience smooth and immersive from the start.
This volume picks up right where the last one left off, and it felt like slipping back into a world I didn’t realize how much I missed. We continue following Lykor and Jassyn, whose connection grows in quiet, vulnerable ways that feel raw and deeply sincere. Their moments together are tender, awkward, intense, and full of unspoken longing. Watching Lykor slowly allow himself to express what he feels, both in words and actions, was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
We also get more of Serenna, Vesryn, and Fenn, and their dynamic is impossible not to fall for. Vesryn’s jealousy filled tantrums over Fenn are genuinely funny, but they also add layers to a relationship that is far more emotional than it first appears. Serenna’s journey, especially as she struggles to adjust to her transformed body and new powers, is beautifully written and grounded in both wonder and fear.
As the story progresses, the tension tightens, alliances are tested, and the sense of danger grows heavier with every chapter.
The final chapters left me completely stunned, staring at the page and then at the wall, trying to process everything. It’s one of those endings that doesn’t just stop, it detonates. I closed the book already spiraling, wondering what Lykor is going to unleash for Jassyn, because there is no universe where he doesn’t burn the world to get him back. And Vesryn… whatever fury he’s been holding back, it’s about to break loose if it means saving Serenna and Fenn!
The way the book ends plants this heavy, electric sense of what’s coming next. You can feel the storm gathering, the kind that’s driven by devotion, rage, and love pushed past its limits. I was left wide eyed, heart racing, and counting the days until the next book because whatever comes next is going to be brutal, emotional, and absolutely worth it.

[Harmonie · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐉 ARC REVIEW 🐉

I am SO grateful to have received an ARC copy, so hopping on here to give my honest review 🤍

🐉 Spoilers 🐉

First, I’m starting with the ending bc I wanna puke I’m so heartbroken for my babies 😭 they have been through so much I can’t bear to see them go through anymore pain 😭😭😭

This series continues to impress me, but it’s the depth of character development and emotional connection that really keeps me coming back. I love that, yes there are main characters, but you feel so immersed with all of the characters, that each characters journey feels just as important and pivotal to the story. I also love the complexity of the characters and their relationships 💞 I was so surprised by some of them, like Vesryns and Fenns dynamic with each other and Serenna, like I am OBSESSED with all three of them. This is exactly the detail I love seeing thought out. And don’t get me started on my favorites of course lykor and Jassyn. They are absolutely beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time. I have always loved and related to Jassyn, but Lykor may weasel his way to one of my favorite characters. Not only was he hilarious, but my god the way he opened up to Jassyn, ugh I can’t take it. ESPECIALLY WITH THAT ENDING.

ACTUALLY SAMANTHA: I challenge you to write one page about Jassyn and Lykor where I’m NOT BAWLING MY FREAKING EYES OUT. I expect Jassyn to make Lykor a flower crown or something. Thanks.

Anyways….. the magic system is something I’m still obsessed with. The way it’s written really allows growth and even plot twists, without causing massive confusion (imo). Like there is just enough unknown to make you question, but that is the fun of learning with our characters as well. Ugh like I just KNEW something about the starshards felt too easy.

One reoccurring part of Serenna’s plot that I love is that she actively rejects the stars. Now I can see it becoming important later, but I love how she chooses to stay, and she doesn’t immediately become some chosen one. It just circles back to how a lot of characters are so developed that we get to see how everyone is contributing to moving the plot forward.

Samantha really crafts here characters with care, except Kal (RIP), with this being a setup/development book for the finale, it could have been slow, BUT it wasn’t because the emotionally driven plot was so important in this book.

I love this series with my whole heart, I am excited and terrified for the next book, but everyone should read it 🤍🐉

[Brittany Boehnke · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️ARC Review✨️
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Received an ebook ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author for this ARC. THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS.
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First, I want to mention that I greatly appreciate the recap in the beginning. While I love this story so much, my mind doesn't always like to hold onto all the details between publications. So it's nice to have a refresher prior to diving back into this world.
Now on to the spoilery part!
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I just adore Fenn, y'all. That wraith has my heart. He is the embodiment of golden retriever sprinkled with just enough doberman protection. I love the complexity of the characters in this series. I think Samantha does an incredible job portraying them and all of their differences. Lykor and Aesar especially. I was so happy to see Jassyn and Lykor taking steps forward together in this book! I was also happy that Fenn was able to facilitate Vesryn and Serenna having a real conversation about their relationship. And they finally accepted their bond! The 3 of them are just chef's kiss. I loved how each of their relationships with each other grew in this book.

The battle at the Crackling Maw was WILD. Seeing it all from different POVs was intense. It made me feel like I was right there in the thick of it. But if Samantha doesn't stop trying to kill my boy Fenn, I may riot! We've met all kinds of new dragons. Some a little more hot tempered than others...and some that break your heart.

The final battles scenes were so intense, my heart is still POUNDING from the last few chapters. And that cliffhanger!!!! All of our MCs are at a precipice and I am chomping at the bit to see where we go from here. At the same time, I know I am not ready for it to be over.

Samantha has done it again. Another incredible installment in The Aelfyn Archives Series. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves fantasy/romantasy, really interesting magic systems, lore that continues to build and unfold with each book in the series, just the right amount of spice, and a cast of characters that are all incredibly unique and compelling to read about. There's also dragons, witty banter, and thrilling action at every turn. You'll laugh, cry, stop breathing, blush, scream, and maybe even fall in love a few times. Thank you again to Samantha for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I truly loved it.

[inkandlorereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read enough romantasy to know there’s always a calm before the storm - that fragile moment where things seem to be falling into place. Characters find love, relationships deepen, wounds begin to heal. After the warmth and growth we’ve seen across the previous three books, I was not prepared for what the final 15–20% of this book delivered.

Serenna’s character development is, without question, the standout for me. She is strong, headstrong, and undeniably powerful, and watching her evolution from book one through to book four has been incredibly satisfying. I especially loved that her growth didn’t happen in isolation - it was shaped alongside friendships, loyalty, and love. There’s something deeply rewarding about seeing a female character come into her power while being supported, challenged, and loved.

The magic system continues to impress. The blend of dragon bonds and elemental magic feels distinct and immersive, and the different power dynamics add real weight to the story. The stakes are high, the losses hit hard, and once things start unraveling, it becomes impossible to put the book down.

And the ending… devastating. The cliffhanger leaves your heart in your throat, your stomach hollow, and your emotions completely exposed. The tonal shift in the final stretch is ruthless - there’s no sense of safety, no room to breathe, and that emotional whiplash is very intentional.

That said, I did find the first half of the book slower than expected. Coming back to this world after some time, it took a while for momentum to build, and the story doesn’t fully ignite until the last portion. In hindsight, the groundwork is necessary, but it does require patience.

I also found myself wishing for more intimate, personal moments - particularly between Serenna, Vesyrn, and Fenn. The same goes for Lykor and Jassyn, though their relationship is clearly a long-game slow burn, which I can appreciate even if I wanted more in this installment.

The wait for book five is going to be brutal - but without a doubt, it will be worth it. Samantha has done something heart stopping with this book.

I received an early copy of this book as an ARC reviewer. All opinions are my own.

[Nicole (book_drake on IG) · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥🐉 ARC REVIEW: The Bargain of Dragons by Samantha Amstutz 🐉🔥
(Aelfyn Archives, Book 4)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

OMG. THAT. ENDING.
I’m kicking my feet. I’m squealing. I’m screaming into the void. I NEED book five in my hands like yesterday… but also? I don’t want this series to end!! 😭💔🔥

✨ The Bargain of Dragons is a five-star FEAST of elemental chaos, dragon lore, and emotional devastation served hot—with a side of lightning storms, ancient secrets, and DRUID POWER UPS! ⚡️🌿

Let’s talk about JASSYN AND LYKOR! 🫠🤭🥰
OH. MY. STARS.
My heart cannot take these two. The tension, the growth, the INTENSITY. Every scene they’re in? 🔥💥💘 Absolute perfection. I’m over here clapping like a seal and giggling like a fool. Is it possible to be emotionally wrecked and healed at the same time?? Because SAME.

And Serenna? Still an icon. Still out here trying to save the world while facing storms that would break lesser mortals. The druids have leveled UP and I am here for it! Their magic is now infused with dragon fire and Cinderax’s gift?? YES PLEASE. 🐲💫

But of course, nothing comes easy. Because the Crackling Maw is a lightning-infested hellscape, the king’s armies are on a dragon-hunting spree, and the clock is ticking to save Skylash before her power is stolen and weaponized. The tension?? IMMACULATE. The pacing?? Chef’s kiss. 👑⚔️⏳

This book is all heart-pounding battles, ancient forces awakening, fated bonds with TEETH, and that perfect mix of romance and epic high stakes that Samantha Amstutz nails every single time. And did I mention I’m not emotionally okay? Because I’m NOT. 🫠🫀🐉

TL;DR:
💥 Epic battles
💘 Swoon-worthy bonds
⚡️ Elemental chaos
🔥 Emotional wreckage (in the best way)
👑 Dragons, druids, destiny

@samantha.amstutz.author has once again raised the bar with The Bargain of Dragons. This book is pure magic, and if you’re not already reading the Aelfyn Archives… FIX THAT IMMEDIATELY. 😤📚

#TheBargainOfDragons #ARCReview #AelfynArchives #SamanthaAmstutz #BookDragonApproved JassynAndLykorForever ILoveBooksThatHurtMe EpicFantasy RomantasyReads GiveMeBookFivePlease 🐉💔✨

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've really enjoyed this series, and I am sad that we only have one more book to go. HOWEVER, I certainly hope we get some happy endings here because I really don't know how much more these characters can take. I would have broken two books ago!

This story picked up only a week or so after the ending of the previous book. I did not re-read before starting this one, but there really were enough brushes on previous plot summaries throughout the first couple of chapters that made me go "oh, right!" and of course, the glossary at the beginning helped to cement my understanding as we dove right back in. I won't give any plot summary, just in case someone stumbled on this review out of order.

I think my favorite thing (aside from Fenn) about this story was Lykor and Jassyn. I've been rooting for them since the beginning. To see both of them finally come together as they do in this story made my heart so warm. I think Jassyn is probably my favorite character in the series, and he just gets better in this book. Fenn doesn't count in this case.

Our plot goes crazy in this book. I feel like so much is happening all the time, and our characters just can't catch a break. It was nice, though, to see them have some downtime and the sweet moments that would occur right before or after big sequences. Fenn helping Serenna keep watch, Serenna with the unbound, and the moment where Jassyn is recovering, to name a few. There really was a lot that needed to be set up before we move into our finale, and I do think that despite the chaos, everything was outlined nicely.

I don't know what it was about this installment that I couldn't give it five stars; maybe it was the fact that I had to hold my breath the whole time? Not sure. But this series is so so good, and I totally recommend it to anyone who's a fan of deep and complex worlds and magic systems and mature, reasonable character growth.

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I were to pick a single character from all the books I've read and claim them as a true and ultimate favorite, it would be Jassyn. From the moment I met him in The Aspect of Essence, Book 1 of Samantha's Aelfyn Archives, I knew he was someone special. Someone worth saving and safekeeping. Someone who deserved to be loved and cherished. Someone who deserved to be free and to choose his own life's path.

And this love and adoration never abated. Never diminished. They only grew stronger as the series progressed. I wept with him and for him, wanting nothing more than to destroy all those who'd done him harm. The only thing that's changed is that now I have an ally in this, and his name is Lykor. Lykor, a soul wounded and plagued by the feeling of unworthiness. A soul who didn't know how to accept tenderness or how to give it. A soul fractured, and yet a soul deserving of love and devotion. Lykor, my ally and Jassyn's home. These two were the highlight of The Bargain of Dragons, and I inhaled every chapter, every look, every doubt, every ounce of passion and fierce devotion.

Jassyn is a guiding star, not just to Lykor, but to everyone else, too. To Serenna, Vesryn, Fenn, and their entire party. He is the one searching for ways to bring people together, rather than fracture them even further. Him, with all his torments, all his ghosts chasing him.

There was so much going on in The Bargain of Dragons. So many revelations, mysteries uncovered, and mysteries still unresolved. And then came the ending… I still feel lost, hurt, and angry at the world. I still feel like my heart was cleaved from my chest. And yet, I also feel a tiny ember of hope. Just a spark for now, but one that must turn into a roaring fire in the finale. I know it will.

Thank you, Samantha, for having me as your ARC reader once again. It's a true honor.

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m writing the beginning of this review at 61% of the way through this book. I’m incredibly honored to be an ARC reader for the 3rd time for Samantha Amstutz. A very humble Author for someone who can create the most incredible of worlds, and can develop the most wonderful characters I have read in a long while. We start this book where we left off in the last book, with our characters doing their best to build a safe-haven, and an army of fighters all at once to defeat the king. All while they have to find their strengths, challenge the barriers set up before them, and rebuild some of their own relationships. We see our main characters grow in all their own ways, and see what the power of love and respect can do for each of them. They are in search of the dragon Skylash who would help turn the tide of this war—only to find that the king has been onto them this entire time. As always I will try to avoid spoilers otherwise, but can we talk about Lykor? I’m absolutely obsessed with him and Jassyn’s storyline/relationship, and how they’ve both grown to be the perfect “other half” to a whole I didn’t know I needed. Seeing how much Lykor has grown to care about everyone (to his own detriment at times) has been really refreshing and important to me 🥹 As always, the magic systems and the twists and turns keep me desperately reading through the book for more. My heart is broken by the character death in chapter 50, and I have not a lot of ways to cope with it (except cry myself to sleep probably). I’m about to finish the book, and I just know that I’m in for it with the release of the next book already in the open air. I loved the first book of this series and will continue to read on until the very end 🖤

[InkedSirenXO · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book doesn’t just raise the stakes—it hurls them into a storm of fire, lightning, and fate, then dares you to keep up.

From the moment Serenna, Jassyn, Lykor, and their companions emerge transformed by dragon fire, the story pulses with raw, untamed power. Their evolution into druids isn’t some neat upgrade—it feels volatile, hard-won, and dangerously incomplete, like holding lightning in your bare hands and hoping it doesn’t burn you alive. Watching them struggle to control Cinderax’s gift adds a delicious tension that hums beneath every page.

And then there’s Skylash.

The Crackling Maw is one of the most vivid, electrifying settings I’ve read in a long time—chaotic, alive, and almost sentient in its fury. The mission to free her feels less like a quest and more like stepping into the eye of a living storm, where every choice could mean salvation… or total annihilation.

What truly elevates this story, though, is the looming threat of the king. While our heroes fight to save dragons, he hunts them with ruthless precision, turning the entire world into a battlefield where hope and devastation collide. The tension between these forces builds like thunder in your chest—slow, heavy, and inevitable.

The characters shine just as brightly as the magic. Their bonds feel forged in flame—loyal, strained, and fiercely protective. Every victory tastes sharp because you know what it cost them to earn it.

This is epic fantasy at its most feral and breathtaking—where dragons are more than myth, power comes with a price, and the storm isn’t just coming… it’s already here.

I devoured this book like it might disappear if I slowed down. And honestly? I’m still catching my breath. 🌩️🔥🐉

[Erica • thebridgeto.fantasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book four in the Aelfyn Archives series was so worth the wait picking right up where the ending of The Shadows of Stars left us.. in absolute chaos. This is the book where all of the problems that have arisen, finally see some solutions. Another book packed full of action, dragons and feelings that finally need to be talked about. Trying to write a review without spoiling the first three books will be a challenge so I’ll stay short and sweet.
Serenna has grown so much within these four books. From Princess to stone cold warrior, she is simply my favorite. Still repoing the why choose between Fenn and Vesryn.. but let’s be real I also.. would not be able to choose between the two. We all need the grumpy X sunshine duo .. Fenn and Vesryn are that.
Jassyn FINALLLLLYYY getting what he deserves in life, which is everything until it’s all ripped out from under him again. I looked forward to getting to his POVs this whole book. The heat that was brought in this book between him and Lykor was 😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨.
THE DRAGONS. I absolutely loved the dragons in this book. With some being “friendly”, enough to help in the war, and others being less than friendly it was a fun twist to dragons.
I was crryyyingggg by the end. Sobbing even. Enter *jlaw meme “What do you mean??”😭* I can’t wait for the next book but also I don’t want it to be the end. I’m not ready to say goodbyeeeeee 😭😭
I cannot thank Sam enough for allowing me to ARC read all of her books because my heart loves this realm so much. It’s so hard sometimes to wrap your head around characters not actually being real - this is one of those series. I will forever rave about the Aelfyn Archive until my face goes blue!

[Kamilla Utne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found The Bargains of Dragons to be an easy-to-read and engaging fantasy novel filled with dragons, magic, and bargains that have far greater consequences than expected. The story has a good drive and a world that was easy to get into (but you do need to read the series from start) without being overloaded with details. As we know, this is book four in a five book series so things are working their way towards the last events reserved for the final book!

One of the things I liked best was the character development. The main character grows through the choices she makes, and the relationships between the characters develop in a natural and believable way as the pressure increases. The relationships – whether it's about friendship, loyalty, or more complicated bonds – gives the story extra depth and made me more invested in what was at stake. I felt the connection between Lykor and Jassyn was so well written and I just love how they both yearn for each other. Also happy to see progress in their connection and intimacy 🥰
Finally did Serenna and Vesryn complete the bond! ✨

The book plays on familiar fantasy tropes, but has enough warmth and humor to feel fresh. The dragons are both fascinating and threatening, and the tension kept me engaged throughout.
All in all, this is a solid fantasy for me who wants a captivating story with a focus on both action and characters – and a good reminder that you should think carefully before making a deal with a dragon. 🐉📖

I was lucky to recieve this book as an arc, and unfortunately my review is a bit late. Sometimes life happens. I’m exited to finalize the story in book five.

[Aubrie Church · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series gets better with every book. Not that it’s a good series at all, but at least it’s moving in the right direction.

It had been a while since the last book so I didn’t remember much and was surprised when they all were basically half dragon now… dragon eyesight, wings and conjuring flames on demand. That’s kinda sick haha but kinda lame that everyone got it. Would have been cooler if the flame dragon only gave his abilities to a couple people. It was also crazy that Lykor ended up getting the frost dragon magic and Serena was forced to take the lightning dragon powers. I liked it personally. And that she was able to sway what the dragon eggs would become. Balance is good so I’m glad they did a mix

You know I love a good love story and while the love triangle between Serenna, Vasryn and Fenn was extremely entertaining, lykor and Jasyn really stole the show for me. Lykor is so mean and abrasive and seeing him be sweet and vulnerable with Jassyn was a great read. And Vice verse, Jassyn being with Lykor made him stronger. I loved that Lykor was almost like his own bodyguard at the meetings lol I felt bad for Vesryn last book when Serenna had bonded with Fenn and I’m super happy that she decided to accept the bond with him now too. They all have some incredible scenes and Fenn fucking with Vesryn is honestly hilarious. But them all being like triple bonded was awful… idk how they’ll survive that.

And of course the ending was so sad. All captured. Serenna and Fenn in that fight to the death coliseum thing (did Fenn survive??) and Jassyn is a sex slave again under coercion. So terrible. Idk how they’ll all get out of it but I’m hopeful! Looking forward to the finale

[Ella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok wow. The ending was actually heart wrenching and I don’t know what i’ll do now that I have to wait until December. Quick recap so I don’t forget until then: Serenna, Vesryn, Fenn, Jassyn and Lykor are trying to take down the Aelfyn King who is stealing power from elves and making wraiths. But now the gang is also dragon bonded so they have powers like fire, water and lightning and some are part druid meaning they have access to the elements. So they have dragons of fire and lightning which is good but the king also has big bad dragons (One of them killed Kal which was actually horrifying and he was with Aesar who’s in Lykors head) so the fight was pretty tight. Then at the end when it seemed like they were doing good everything went to shit. Lykor and Vesryn almost died trying to free prisoners and lost Kal, but worst of all Serenna, Fenn and Jassyn got captured by the her brother who’s actually a bad guy and now Jassyn has gone back to being a sex slave and his mind his pretty fucked (but he says he can find ways around it so let’s hope for my poor boy). And Serenna is back in the capital in a fighting arena where Fenn WHOM I LOVE is chained and she has to fight i think to get him out it’s all be dry stressful. But it’s not like she can just fight her way out noooo she’s under the command of Ayla who has her Starshard and controls Serenna completely so she’s trapped. This made me very stressed while reading it and I almost quit reading it honestly bc it was too painful but can’t wait for the rest😀

[Tiffany Cliff · Rating 5 out of 5]

****Spoilers Ahead****

I received this book as an arc. I have loved all of the books in this series so far! I was so excited to get to read this next book!!

Samantha Amstutz has done it again with book 4 of The Aelfyn Archives! Another great 5 star read. I love the complexity of the plot and characters in this storyline.

I could not wait to reunite with my babies (Vesryn, Fenn, Serenna, Jassyn, and Lykor) again!! We started out right where we left off from book 3 in the series.

The character growth was great in this book. I loved the new dynamic growing between Vesryn, Fenn, and Serenna. I am excited to see where that goes in the next book. And sweet babies Jassyn and Lykor!!! I am ready to see more of their blossoming relationship.

One of my favorite moments was Vesryn and Serenna accepting the bond 🔥🔥🔥 and the whole banter between Vesryn and Fenn and specifically the scene where they found out they accidentally tethered themselves together 😅 Also, the tender moments of trust and healing for Lykor and Jassyn.

But... can we talk about that massive cliffhanger!!!!!!!! I was shaking my head no, dreading what they were going through, and felt like I was there with them. I hope there is a quick resolution and they can be reunited early in book 5 😭😭😭 I can't handle them being wrenched apart, especially just as their bonds were strengthening and growing so well. I NEED BOOK 5 like today! 😅

[Giulia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as an ARC (thanks!), and I can happily say this series remains one of my absolute favourites. I’ve rated all the previous instalments between 4 and 5 stars, and this one is no exception.

The Bargain of Dragons is probably the most action-packed book in the series so far. It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout; in fact, there were several moments where I actually had to stop reading just to handle the tension! Whether that’s a "pro" or a "con" depends on the reader, but personally, I love that sense of epic scale.

However, if there was one thing I felt was slightly missing it was the focus on certain character dynamics. While we finally see Lykor and Jassyn relationship explode (wow!), and the bond between Fenn, Serenna and Vesryn is explored further, I really missed the interaction between Vesryn and Jassyn, which I’ve loved in the previous books.

I think I also struggled with the fact that so many events in this book (especially in the second half) are quite bleak for our protagonists. That’s purely because I’ve grown so attached to them over the course of the series, and I really feel their struggles.

That being said, the book is well-written and incredibly entertaining and fun to read. I love all the main characters and they have grown so much from the first book, I feel like I'll think about this book for weeks from now on.

[Ash C · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! I love this series! I am beyond delighted that I got it as an ARC!

Mild spoilers. If you haven't read the first three, this won't make sense.










Where do I start? Jassyn and Lykor are everything! Especially Jassyn. I want to scream and cry and throw up at how the book ends in regards to him. I am not okay. When the tension finally broke so did I. Chapter 30 hit hard and I wish I hadn't started it on my lunch break because how do you go back to sending emails in the middle of all that?!

There is beautiful tension both emotional and romantic between the throuple. Vesryn and Fenn rivaling all the time is killing me, especially with Fenns sense of humor. He ever loses his childishness I will riot.

One of my favorite moments "Slap me like you mean it".

A few spelling or grammar errors scattered about but not enough to ruin anything. That and it is low on physical descriptions of characters. I have completely forgotten what everyone looks like since reading the first 3 books in July. 😅

Dragons are starting to cause problems for the group. I'm excited to see where it goes from here and how they incorporate into the future that everyone is fighting for.

I almost cried in chapter 48. So be prepared for that I guess. And the last two chapters.

[Omnia El-mashad · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The ember hadn't died. Not yet."

WHAT. IS. THIS. ENDING!!!!

This is by far my favorite out of all 4 Aelfyn Archives books. Samantha really outdid herself with this one. The way I was proverbially gripping the edge of my seat (but very delicately holding my kindle) throughout this entire book. The plot was strong and heavy but the romance and emotions still held their ground and didn't give way.

I personally loved that we delved deeper into Lykor's and Jassyn's stories and got to explore more of their psyches. They managed to make me kick my feet in giddiness at times, and absolutely annihilated and wrecked my heart into microscopic smithereens at times.

But we still got a healthy dose of Fenn and his Fenn-ishness. I'd missed baby girl. And best believe the baby girliness was in full effect in this one.

And I can't skip talking about baby girl # 1 aka prince of slap aka Vesryn. The sass was accounted for, but we got glimpses of vulnerability and rawness that made me crave to explore more of his side of things.

All in all, this was a great sequel. Definitely held up and even surpassed my expectations. Now if I may be excused, I'll proceed to go put myself in a coma till book 5 comes out.

[FloofyMooseReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Bargain of Dragons is the fourth book in The Aelfyn Archives, an epic romantasy series. I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Thank you to the author for my eArc.

Tropes and themes include:
✨Slowburn
✨Dragons
✨Multiple couples (mm, mfm)
✨Banter
✨Epic battles and flying
✨Found (but whacky) family
✨Multiple magic systems
✨Emotional healing
✨Shadow and wing daddies
✨Multi, third person POV

Rating: 4/5 Stars 2/5 Flames

The Lovely: I loved seeing Serenna’s growth over the course of this book as she tried to better master her own magic (& flying), while also trying to manage the more political/leadership expectations put upon her. Not to mention trying to figure out the complexity of her love life.

The Mundane: Much like with the third book, I found the pacing to be slow at times and felt like not a ton happened (for the length of the book). This did improve towards the last quarter or third of the book though.

Recommendation: That cliffhanger was on the brutal side, as in kind of a cryptic cliffhanger. The fifth and final book of the series is expected to be released late in 2026. If you’re in the mood for an epic romantasy series with a focus on world building and political intrigue, I think you would like this series.