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Ice In The Air: Dragon Core Epic Book 1
506 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 16, 2026
Okay but the dragon core concept in this book was SO interesting. The mix of dragons, magic, and politics made this feel really fresh compared to a lot of romantasy I’ve read lately. I loved how the worldbuilding was woven throughout the story without feeling overly dense or info dumpy, and the magic system honestly felt incredibly unique.
The whole Bachelor/Bachelorette competition aspect was also way more fun than I expected. Watching Renae navigate the pressure of choosing a king consort while secretly wanting someone who could truly love her and melt through that icy exterior added so much emotional depth to the story. I also thought the connection between her cold princess persona, her struggle to emotionally connect with people, and her ice powers was incredibly well done. It all tied together in such a natural way.
I will say this is definitely more romance forward fantasy than action heavy epic fantasy. The pacing is a little slower at times because the book is clearly laying the foundation for a larger series, but personally I really enjoyed getting immersed in the world and characters. Floyd was probably my favorite character because it was refreshing to have a love interest who felt genuinely kind and optimistic.
Overall, this felt like such a strong debut with a really original magic system, lovable characters, and a world I genuinely want to spend more time in!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The whole Bachelor/Bachelorette competition aspect was also way more fun than I expected. Watching Renae navigate the pressure of choosing a king consort while secretly wanting someone who could truly love her and melt through that icy exterior added so much emotional depth to the story. I also thought the connection between her cold princess persona, her struggle to emotionally connect with people, and her ice powers was incredibly well done. It all tied together in such a natural way.
I will say this is definitely more romance forward fantasy than action heavy epic fantasy. The pacing is a little slower at times because the book is clearly laying the foundation for a larger series, but personally I really enjoyed getting immersed in the world and characters. Floyd was probably my favorite character because it was refreshing to have a love interest who felt genuinely kind and optimistic.
Overall, this felt like such a strong debut with a really original magic system, lovable characters, and a world I genuinely want to spend more time in!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
This book was such a pleasant surprise. From the very beginning I was intrigued by the concept of dragon cores, humans who carry dragon magic within them. The magic system feels original and thoughtfully designed, and the worldbuilding around it is one of the strongest aspects of the book.
The story follows Renae, the heir to the throne, whose life is largely dictated by duty and political expectations. When her father announces that twelve men will compete for her hand in a series of challenges, the story takes on a structure that feels a bit like a fantasy version of The Bachelor. The competition includes dates that are recorded and broadcast, which adds a fun and slightly modern twist to the setting.
While the book contains fantasy elements such as dragon cores, magical artifacts, and a quest to retrieve crystals that will empower Renae’s crown, the story is very much romance in a fantasy setting rather than epic fantasy. Readers expecting large-scale magical battles or intense trials may find the plot quieter than anticipated. Personally, I really enjoyed that balance. It made the book feel like a refreshing palate cleanser between heavier fantasy reads. The writing style is smooth and very easy to sink into, which made this a really enjoyable read. At the same time, the story clearly lays a strong foundation for the rest of the series. The author builds a rich world around the dragon cores while introducing characters that feel relatable and human. It feels very much like the beginning of a larger story, and I’m curious to see how the world and its conflicts will expand in the next books.
The characters are another highlight. Renae is a compelling protagonist, torn between her own desire for independence and the immense pressure placed on her as the future ruler. Floyd quickly became one of my favorite characters. Instead of the typical dark and brooding romantasy hero, he comes across as principled and optimistic, which was honestly quite refreshing.
The romantic tension develops primarily between Renae, Floyd, and Brice, creating an engaging love triangle (sort of) that kept me curious about who she would ultimately choose. At the same time, the subplot involving Maddie retrieving the crystals for Renae’s crown adds a nice layer of adventure to the story.
I also loved small details like the snowberry reference, which felt like a fun little easter egg for readers familiar with the author’s online presence.
Overall, this is a sweet, character-driven romantasy with excellent worldbuilding, lovable characters, and a story that is simply very enjoyable to read. There is no spice in this book beyond a few kisses, so readers looking for a softer romance will likely appreciate that.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, and I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next!
If you enjoy romance-forward fantasy with an original magic system and engaging characters, I would absolutely recommend this one.
This book was such a pleasant surprise. From the very beginning I was intrigued by the concept of dragon cores, humans who carry dragon magic within them. The magic system feels original and thoughtfully designed, and the worldbuilding around it is one of the strongest aspects of the book.
The story follows Renae, the heir to the throne, whose life is largely dictated by duty and political expectations. When her father announces that twelve men will compete for her hand in a series of challenges, the story takes on a structure that feels a bit like a fantasy version of The Bachelor. The competition includes dates that are recorded and broadcast, which adds a fun and slightly modern twist to the setting.
While the book contains fantasy elements such as dragon cores, magical artifacts, and a quest to retrieve crystals that will empower Renae’s crown, the story is very much romance in a fantasy setting rather than epic fantasy. Readers expecting large-scale magical battles or intense trials may find the plot quieter than anticipated. Personally, I really enjoyed that balance. It made the book feel like a refreshing palate cleanser between heavier fantasy reads. The writing style is smooth and very easy to sink into, which made this a really enjoyable read. At the same time, the story clearly lays a strong foundation for the rest of the series. The author builds a rich world around the dragon cores while introducing characters that feel relatable and human. It feels very much like the beginning of a larger story, and I’m curious to see how the world and its conflicts will expand in the next books.
The characters are another highlight. Renae is a compelling protagonist, torn between her own desire for independence and the immense pressure placed on her as the future ruler. Floyd quickly became one of my favorite characters. Instead of the typical dark and brooding romantasy hero, he comes across as principled and optimistic, which was honestly quite refreshing.
The romantic tension develops primarily between Renae, Floyd, and Brice, creating an engaging love triangle (sort of) that kept me curious about who she would ultimately choose. At the same time, the subplot involving Maddie retrieving the crystals for Renae’s crown adds a nice layer of adventure to the story.
I also loved small details like the snowberry reference, which felt like a fun little easter egg for readers familiar with the author’s online presence.
Overall, this is a sweet, character-driven romantasy with excellent worldbuilding, lovable characters, and a story that is simply very enjoyable to read. There is no spice in this book beyond a few kisses, so readers looking for a softer romance will likely appreciate that.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, and I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next!
If you enjoy romance-forward fantasy with an original magic system and engaging characters, I would absolutely recommend this one.
May 17, 2026
3.5⭐️
Beginning the book you think it is going to be a bachelor style like book where she is picking her prince consort but it becomes so much more then tackling so many more difficult topics that I thought would be in this book. A lot of the times this book made me feel at peace and calm reading it just like the moments did for the FMC. As much as I did enjoy this at times in the book it did make some parts feel like it was moving a bit more slowly then I like for my taste but not enough to turn me away from the book. I also felt like it wasn’t as much of the guys vying for her attention and them all trying to get her attention but instead was focused on major conflicts in her life and more than just her relationships with potential love interest. I loved how this book differs from other romantasty with not shying away from nontradironal gender rules, environmental topics, and not need an action pack story in terms of constant conflict or flighting. As well as the mutiple POVs adding a lot depth to the story making you learn about beyond life as a royal, and more background to how the area/people she will rule is created. The romance in this book is more focusing on finding that person that lets you be yourself and can handle some of the harder parts of her life. This leads to more relaxing vibe moments between the main potential love interest over romantic tension. You have almost some instalove moments with one of the potential love interesting via them having been each other childhood crushes. The ending of this book felt like it ended midthought, I would have appreciated a few more sentences to conclude the scene but it does set up a good cliffhanger making me curious about the next book in series. This book was unique to me with the way it combines environmental issues in the world into a romantasy world and beautifully blends these two things together!
Beginning the book you think it is going to be a bachelor style like book where she is picking her prince consort but it becomes so much more then tackling so many more difficult topics that I thought would be in this book. A lot of the times this book made me feel at peace and calm reading it just like the moments did for the FMC. As much as I did enjoy this at times in the book it did make some parts feel like it was moving a bit more slowly then I like for my taste but not enough to turn me away from the book. I also felt like it wasn’t as much of the guys vying for her attention and them all trying to get her attention but instead was focused on major conflicts in her life and more than just her relationships with potential love interest. I loved how this book differs from other romantasty with not shying away from nontradironal gender rules, environmental topics, and not need an action pack story in terms of constant conflict or flighting. As well as the mutiple POVs adding a lot depth to the story making you learn about beyond life as a royal, and more background to how the area/people she will rule is created. The romance in this book is more focusing on finding that person that lets you be yourself and can handle some of the harder parts of her life. This leads to more relaxing vibe moments between the main potential love interest over romantic tension. You have almost some instalove moments with one of the potential love interesting via them having been each other childhood crushes. The ending of this book felt like it ended midthought, I would have appreciated a few more sentences to conclude the scene but it does set up a good cliffhanger making me curious about the next book in series. This book was unique to me with the way it combines environmental issues in the world into a romantasy world and beautifully blends these two things together!
May 26, 2026
3.5⭐️ 1🫑
This was such a unique story with a lot of potential, even if it fell a little short for me in a few areas. The book starts off very fast-paced, which I definitely appreciated, but at times it also felt a bit chaotic and confusing. I understand that was likely intentional because of everything unfolding in the story, but it still took me a little while to fully settle into the world and characters.
The POV shifts frequently between our FMC, Renae, and several side characters. I usually enjoy multiple POVs because they add depth to the story, but here it occasionally became difficult to immediately tell whose perspective I was reading from, which pulled me out of the story at times.
One thing I absolutely loved was the uniqueness of the magic system. The concept of dragon-cored individuals (humans granted powers based on the type of dragon core they possess) was incredibly interesting and felt fresh within the fantasy genre. The marriage competition aspect was also a fun addition, and several side characters ended up growing on me far more than I expected.
I especially loved the Maddie side storyline. Even though she’s initially introduced simply to retrieve magical ice crystals for Renae’s coronation crown, she quickly became one of my favorite characters. I have a strong feeling she’s going to play a much larger role moving forward, and I’m really excited to see where her journey goes in book two.
I’d also love to see even more dragons in the next installment! I’m very invested in what’s next for Renae, Maddie, and the rest of the cast. I’m especially excited to watch Renae continue growing into her power and to see how her relationships with her suitors develop — because now I absolutely need to know who she chooses.
Overall, this was a very interesting and imaginative story that I think has the potential to grow into something really special as the series continues. I’m definitely interested to see where book two takes us!
This was such a unique story with a lot of potential, even if it fell a little short for me in a few areas. The book starts off very fast-paced, which I definitely appreciated, but at times it also felt a bit chaotic and confusing. I understand that was likely intentional because of everything unfolding in the story, but it still took me a little while to fully settle into the world and characters.
The POV shifts frequently between our FMC, Renae, and several side characters. I usually enjoy multiple POVs because they add depth to the story, but here it occasionally became difficult to immediately tell whose perspective I was reading from, which pulled me out of the story at times.
One thing I absolutely loved was the uniqueness of the magic system. The concept of dragon-cored individuals (humans granted powers based on the type of dragon core they possess) was incredibly interesting and felt fresh within the fantasy genre. The marriage competition aspect was also a fun addition, and several side characters ended up growing on me far more than I expected.
I especially loved the Maddie side storyline. Even though she’s initially introduced simply to retrieve magical ice crystals for Renae’s coronation crown, she quickly became one of my favorite characters. I have a strong feeling she’s going to play a much larger role moving forward, and I’m really excited to see where her journey goes in book two.
I’d also love to see even more dragons in the next installment! I’m very invested in what’s next for Renae, Maddie, and the rest of the cast. I’m especially excited to watch Renae continue growing into her power and to see how her relationships with her suitors develop — because now I absolutely need to know who she chooses.
Overall, this was a very interesting and imaginative story that I think has the potential to grow into something really special as the series continues. I’m definitely interested to see where book two takes us!
May 21, 2026
I went into this book not quite knowing what to expect, and it ended up being such a refreshing surprise within the romantasy genre. The concept of dragon cores felt genuinely original, and the worldbuilding surrounding the magic system was incredibly detailed and thoughtfully crafted. You can really feel how much care the author put into creating this world.
The beginning does take some time introducing the history, dragons, magic system, and politics, but once everything clicks into place, the story becomes such an immersive and comforting read. The writing flows beautifully and makes it very easy to get lost in the story.
Renae was such an engaging protagonist. I loved watching her navigate the pressure placed on her while trying to discover who she truly is. The competition for her hand gave the story a fun “fantasy Bachelor/Bachelorette” vibe, especially with the recorded dates and public challenges, which added a really entertaining modern touch to the fantasy setting.
One of my favourite parts of the book was definitely the characters. Floyd completely stole my heart, it was so refreshing to read a romantasy hero who wasn’t overly dark. His optimism and genuine nature made him stand out so much. The romantic tension between Renae, Floyd, and Brice kept me fully invested the entire time, while the crystal quest storyline added just enough adventure alongside the romance.
This book felt cosy, character-driven, and incredibly enjoyable to read.
I also adored the little details and easter eggs sprinkled throughout the book, which made the world feel even more personal and alive.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable and unique romantasy with lovable characters, creative magic, and a story that left me very excited for the next book.
The beginning does take some time introducing the history, dragons, magic system, and politics, but once everything clicks into place, the story becomes such an immersive and comforting read. The writing flows beautifully and makes it very easy to get lost in the story.
Renae was such an engaging protagonist. I loved watching her navigate the pressure placed on her while trying to discover who she truly is. The competition for her hand gave the story a fun “fantasy Bachelor/Bachelorette” vibe, especially with the recorded dates and public challenges, which added a really entertaining modern touch to the fantasy setting.
One of my favourite parts of the book was definitely the characters. Floyd completely stole my heart, it was so refreshing to read a romantasy hero who wasn’t overly dark. His optimism and genuine nature made him stand out so much. The romantic tension between Renae, Floyd, and Brice kept me fully invested the entire time, while the crystal quest storyline added just enough adventure alongside the romance.
This book felt cosy, character-driven, and incredibly enjoyable to read.
I also adored the little details and easter eggs sprinkled throughout the book, which made the world feel even more personal and alive.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable and unique romantasy with lovable characters, creative magic, and a story that left me very excited for the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's an elegant fantasy world, and I loved learning about the unique magics and dragon cores.
Princess Renae is the lead FMC, and it explores the pressures she faces as heir, and all the politics and duties that come with it, against her desire for freedom, independence and adventure.
I loved seeing her internal conflict and the fear of her power, and how she navigates the oppression from her cruel father and the royal expectations of her marriage.
The main plot focuses on the arranged marriage, and the bachelor style contest to be chosen as a prince consort.
Renae is expected to act and play along, while she desperately wants to connect with the choices on her own terms, but is trapped by the demands of her father.
I liked seeing the range of characters and the mixed motives behind the contest.
It has great romantic tension especially with Floyd and Brice, and seeing the bonds develop with them both. I also liked the friendship with Anthony, and how she comes to rely on them all for an escape to be herself.
There is also high stakes, mystery and adventure with the dangerous quest to retrieve the ice crystals needed for Renae's coronation, and the growing tension for Renae's fear of her own volatile powers, and disappointment or endangering everyone.
I like how it weaves in consideration for the environment, fun snippets about gardening and flowers, and had a focus on connection and destiny.
This is the first book in the series and sets the foundation for more to come, especially with the dramatic ending.
If you like The Batchelor, Frozen, and dragons, this is the book for you.
Princess Renae is the lead FMC, and it explores the pressures she faces as heir, and all the politics and duties that come with it, against her desire for freedom, independence and adventure.
I loved seeing her internal conflict and the fear of her power, and how she navigates the oppression from her cruel father and the royal expectations of her marriage.
The main plot focuses on the arranged marriage, and the bachelor style contest to be chosen as a prince consort.
Renae is expected to act and play along, while she desperately wants to connect with the choices on her own terms, but is trapped by the demands of her father.
I liked seeing the range of characters and the mixed motives behind the contest.
It has great romantic tension especially with Floyd and Brice, and seeing the bonds develop with them both. I also liked the friendship with Anthony, and how she comes to rely on them all for an escape to be herself.
There is also high stakes, mystery and adventure with the dangerous quest to retrieve the ice crystals needed for Renae's coronation, and the growing tension for Renae's fear of her own volatile powers, and disappointment or endangering everyone.
I like how it weaves in consideration for the environment, fun snippets about gardening and flowers, and had a focus on connection and destiny.
This is the first book in the series and sets the foundation for more to come, especially with the dramatic ending.
If you like The Batchelor, Frozen, and dragons, this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 ⭐ | No 🌶️
Renae is the dragon princess of Anzara, and with her coronation approaching, she’s forced into a televised suitor competition while trying to master her ice powers and live up to her father’s impossible expectations. Along the way, she starts forming unexpected relationships that make her question what she actually wants for herself.
I really liked the characters in this one. Floyd was easily my favorite part of the book. He’s such a golden retriever MMC and completely down bad for Renae from the start. I loved how open he was about his feelings and how he’d tell his friends how much he liked her. He was so understanding of her needs and honestly just the sweetest guy. I also loved Floyd and Anthony’s bromance and wish we got even more of it because their friendship was so fun.
Renae was easy to sympathize with because of how much pressure she’s under from her father and the crown. You can really feel how badly she wants to make everyone proud while also trying to figure out what she wants for herself.
For me, I just wanted a little more conflict and tension overall, especially with the relationships and the competition aspect. I kept waiting for the drama to escalate a bit more. The POV switches in the middle of chapters confused me sometimes, and while Maddie’s side storyline was interesting, I wasn’t as invested in it as I was Renae’s story.
Overall, this one was a bit underwhelming for me personally, but the likable characters and relationships definitely kept me reading.
Thank you so much to the author for my early copy! 🫶🏻
Renae is the dragon princess of Anzara, and with her coronation approaching, she’s forced into a televised suitor competition while trying to master her ice powers and live up to her father’s impossible expectations. Along the way, she starts forming unexpected relationships that make her question what she actually wants for herself.
I really liked the characters in this one. Floyd was easily my favorite part of the book. He’s such a golden retriever MMC and completely down bad for Renae from the start. I loved how open he was about his feelings and how he’d tell his friends how much he liked her. He was so understanding of her needs and honestly just the sweetest guy. I also loved Floyd and Anthony’s bromance and wish we got even more of it because their friendship was so fun.
Renae was easy to sympathize with because of how much pressure she’s under from her father and the crown. You can really feel how badly she wants to make everyone proud while also trying to figure out what she wants for herself.
For me, I just wanted a little more conflict and tension overall, especially with the relationships and the competition aspect. I kept waiting for the drama to escalate a bit more. The POV switches in the middle of chapters confused me sometimes, and while Maddie’s side storyline was interesting, I wasn’t as invested in it as I was Renae’s story.
Overall, this one was a bit underwhelming for me personally, but the likable characters and relationships definitely kept me reading.
Thank you so much to the author for my early copy! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy
Yessss finally something truly original within the romantasy genre 😍
But it mixes together only recognisable things so it is relatable and very comfortable to read!
I enjoyed this book so much! It is not the easiest book to get into. The start tells about a lot of history, magical dragons, the magic system and the world and all of this is NEW. Completely made up by the author. She even drew everything important. Check out her page on instagram to see all the impressive dragons and more!
But then.. once you got to know the setting - it becomes the most enjoyable, cosy read.
Princess Renae is ordered by her father to find her Consort, in a 'bachelorette' tv-show type of way. She has to juggle her father's expectations, her own fears and the chance to find real love.
This while she is also expected to find and unleash the maximum of her ice powers.
Ice in the Air takes you on a journey through the biggest of life's choices.
I can't wait to read book 2 🩵
But it mixes together only recognisable things so it is relatable and very comfortable to read!
I enjoyed this book so much! It is not the easiest book to get into. The start tells about a lot of history, magical dragons, the magic system and the world and all of this is NEW. Completely made up by the author. She even drew everything important. Check out her page on instagram to see all the impressive dragons and more!
But then.. once you got to know the setting - it becomes the most enjoyable, cosy read.
Princess Renae is ordered by her father to find her Consort, in a 'bachelorette' tv-show type of way. She has to juggle her father's expectations, her own fears and the chance to find real love.
This while she is also expected to find and unleash the maximum of her ice powers.
Ice in the Air takes you on a journey through the biggest of life's choices.
I can't wait to read book 2 🩵
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book, though the pacing was a little slow for me (personal preference, nothing against the story)
The author did a splendid job at immersing us within the unique world. I really loved how the dragons magic is used, giving this fantasy world a more technological advantage compared to other books in the genre. This is a good blend of romance and storyline.
The only reason I couldn't rate this 5 stars, is some of the characters POVs fell flat for me. I woul've loved to see more of a focus on the romance, and keeping the foreboding mystery around the crystals & Renaes future. Maddie and Holt's POVs didn't really feel like they brought much to the story for me.
That being said, Renae and Floyd's characterization (alongside some of the main cast/friends) is lovely. They're both refreshing characters in this genre.
Overall, a solid debut and I am excited to see where this world/future books go!
The author did a splendid job at immersing us within the unique world. I really loved how the dragons magic is used, giving this fantasy world a more technological advantage compared to other books in the genre. This is a good blend of romance and storyline.
The only reason I couldn't rate this 5 stars, is some of the characters POVs fell flat for me. I woul've loved to see more of a focus on the romance, and keeping the foreboding mystery around the crystals & Renaes future. Maddie and Holt's POVs didn't really feel like they brought much to the story for me.
That being said, Renae and Floyd's characterization (alongside some of the main cast/friends) is lovely. They're both refreshing characters in this genre.
Overall, a solid debut and I am excited to see where this world/future books go!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ice in the Air is multi POV romantic epic fantasy set in a unique world of elemental dragons with a race of people who can wield those dragon abilities. The dragon-cored, a race originally created in a genetic experimental laboratory fusing dragon cores with people
The illustrative writing style used by the Author brought the premise of the story to life. I was astonished at the various dragons and their distinctive features throughout the book. Definitely had my imagination on overdrive.
In the Dragon Core Universe all dragons receive their elemental power from a fusion reactor inside their chest, a small crystalline structure referred to as their core, and the dragon-cored people are no different. There are thirteen minor elements, one major, and five god dragons.
Overall, this book was such fun to read and highly recommend for those that enjoy fantasies and dragons!!!
I’d like to thank Nicole Benn for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy.
The illustrative writing style used by the Author brought the premise of the story to life. I was astonished at the various dragons and their distinctive features throughout the book. Definitely had my imagination on overdrive.
In the Dragon Core Universe all dragons receive their elemental power from a fusion reactor inside their chest, a small crystalline structure referred to as their core, and the dragon-cored people are no different. There are thirteen minor elements, one major, and five god dragons.
Overall, this book was such fun to read and highly recommend for those that enjoy fantasies and dragons!!!
I’d like to thank Nicole Benn for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. I went in expecting two things, a competition/selection type experience for love and dragons. I have to say, the world and fantasy elements in this were incredibly unique. The dragon gods, the type of dragons, the dragon cored people, all of that was something I haven't read anywhere else. I loved that there were nuggets of world building dropped throughout the book without being boring or overly wordy.
The main character and the men competing for her hand are mostly dragon cored people, adding an interesting element to this story. The banter between the contestants was great and I'm really looking forward to seeing how a few different relationships progress in book two.
If you loved The Selection & loved Red Queen. I highly recommend you try this book next!
The main character and the men competing for her hand are mostly dragon cored people, adding an interesting element to this story. The banter between the contestants was great and I'm really looking forward to seeing how a few different relationships progress in book two.
If you loved The Selection & loved Red Queen. I highly recommend you try this book next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨✨3.5 ARC REVIEW✨✨
I was really drawn in by the concept—dragon cores, a royal competition, and a unique blend of fantasy with more modern-feeling characters.
For me, the worldbuilding and overall system took a bit to fully click. It felt like there were a lot of interesting ideas, especially surrounding the dragon cores and political conflict, but I didn’t always fully grasp how everything connected, which made some moments feel a little less impactful.
Some of the bigger developments, like the coronation and character growth, felt more like setup than payoff for me. The romantic arc also remains fairly open-ended going into book two, which may work well for readers who enjoy a slower build.
Overall, this one didn’t fully click for me, but I can definitely see the appeal for readers who enjoy a unique premise and a more gradual, continuing storyline.
I was really drawn in by the concept—dragon cores, a royal competition, and a unique blend of fantasy with more modern-feeling characters.
For me, the worldbuilding and overall system took a bit to fully click. It felt like there were a lot of interesting ideas, especially surrounding the dragon cores and political conflict, but I didn’t always fully grasp how everything connected, which made some moments feel a little less impactful.
Some of the bigger developments, like the coronation and character growth, felt more like setup than payoff for me. The romantic arc also remains fairly open-ended going into book two, which may work well for readers who enjoy a slower build.
Overall, this one didn’t fully click for me, but I can definitely see the appeal for readers who enjoy a unique premise and a more gradual, continuing storyline.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for my honest view!
Although a bit bulky and slow to get into at the beginning - there are a LOT of characters and concepts to introduce - I nonetheless really enjoyed this book. There are so many lovable characters (and some hateable ones too!), the magic system is so unique and yet feels familiar and realistic, and the author's prose is beautiful and descriptive. As the world was described by the author, I could see it forming in my head. Too bad about the cliffhanger... I am so excited to read more!
Content Warnings:
- Emotional abuse
This book will be released on May 28, 2026.
Although a bit bulky and slow to get into at the beginning - there are a LOT of characters and concepts to introduce - I nonetheless really enjoyed this book. There are so many lovable characters (and some hateable ones too!), the magic system is so unique and yet feels familiar and realistic, and the author's prose is beautiful and descriptive. As the world was described by the author, I could see it forming in my head. Too bad about the cliffhanger... I am so excited to read more!
Content Warnings:
- Emotional abuse
This book will be released on May 28, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
what a fun book! love the idea of dragon cores, very cool! also love renae’s growth through the book so much! the ending was very surprising, excited to see where the next one goes!
June 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I don’t usually do halvesies when rating a book but this one wasn’t quite a 4 star read but with the extensive world build, magic system and interesting plot I could not in good conscience give it only 3 stars.
Honestly there wasn’t much wrong with this book. It had all of the elements I love in a Fantasy - romance, corruption, morally grey characters, complex family dynamics, dragons. It was like The Bachelor but darker and with dragons. I expected to be consumed by this one but unfortunately that didn’t happen. The pacing was too slow for me. It was still an enjoyable read but not what I’d expect from this type of storyline.
There were so many good characters but the FMC - Ranae - was not my favorite. She was interesting and had depth but with so many prominent personalities, she kind of got lost. Personally Anthony and Floyd were my absolute favorites. Their dynamic was so much fun and it may be the MM Romance lover in me but I would swoon over an alternate universe where they end up together.
I do plan on reading book two once it’s out. I’m invested enough that I wanna see where the story goes. It ended on a mini cliffhanger and I am curious who Renae chooses in the end and there were a couple other storylines I’m interested in seeing play out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don’t usually do halvesies when rating a book but this one wasn’t quite a 4 star read but with the extensive world build, magic system and interesting plot I could not in good conscience give it only 3 stars.
Honestly there wasn’t much wrong with this book. It had all of the elements I love in a Fantasy - romance, corruption, morally grey characters, complex family dynamics, dragons. It was like The Bachelor but darker and with dragons. I expected to be consumed by this one but unfortunately that didn’t happen. The pacing was too slow for me. It was still an enjoyable read but not what I’d expect from this type of storyline.
There were so many good characters but the FMC - Ranae - was not my favorite. She was interesting and had depth but with so many prominent personalities, she kind of got lost. Personally Anthony and Floyd were my absolute favorites. Their dynamic was so much fun and it may be the MM Romance lover in me but I would swoon over an alternate universe where they end up together.
I do plan on reading book two once it’s out. I’m invested enough that I wanna see where the story goes. It ended on a mini cliffhanger and I am curious who Renae chooses in the end and there were a couple other storylines I’m interested in seeing play out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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