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Empire of Dragons #2
Flame of Defiance
A rebellion is tearing the Empire apart, and savage dragons have breached the Southern Kingdom—all because Aura dared to bond with a dragon.
Haunted by guilt and determined to make things right, Aura leaves the safety of her kingdom and ventures into the Wild Lands, where savage dragons rule and few people survive. She intends to find the rebel base and end the uprising, even if it means confronting her mother, the woman leading it.
Before she can act, Prince Darian of the Southern Kingdom finds her and offers his help, proposing a bold solution: win over the Empire’s fiercest dragon riders by competing in the deadly Riders Games. If she can prove her strength and worth, she may secure the allies she needs for the coming war.
But the Games are far more dangerous than she imagined, and the Empire is crumbling while she fights for loyalty. The pressure mounts, the stakes rise, and if Aura cannot master the storm raging inside her, she risks destroying everything she’s worked for, including her life.
How to Train Your Dragon meets The Hunger Games in this high-stakes sequel brimming with rivalry, found family, fierce competition, and slow-burn romance as Aura discovers what kind of dragon rider she’s meant to become.
Haunted by guilt and determined to make things right, Aura leaves the safety of her kingdom and ventures into the Wild Lands, where savage dragons rule and few people survive. She intends to find the rebel base and end the uprising, even if it means confronting her mother, the woman leading it.
Before she can act, Prince Darian of the Southern Kingdom finds her and offers his help, proposing a bold solution: win over the Empire’s fiercest dragon riders by competing in the deadly Riders Games. If she can prove her strength and worth, she may secure the allies she needs for the coming war.
But the Games are far more dangerous than she imagined, and the Empire is crumbling while she fights for loyalty. The pressure mounts, the stakes rise, and if Aura cannot master the storm raging inside her, she risks destroying everything she’s worked for, including her life.
How to Train Your Dragon meets The Hunger Games in this high-stakes sequel brimming with rivalry, found family, fierce competition, and slow-burn romance as Aura discovers what kind of dragon rider she’s meant to become.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2026
About the author
Julie Janis
8 books61 followersJulie Janis crafts imaginative fantasy adventures filled with rich magic, thrilling action, and swoony romance for readers of all ages to enjoy. When she’s not dreaming up new worlds, she’s reading from her endless TBR list, exploring mountain trails, rewatching The Lord of the Rings, or indulging in her love of ice cream. She lives in Utah with her husband, son, and their lively Toy Australian Shepherd.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
August 15, 2026
3 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - YA Fantasy (dragons with some magic abilities received from them)
I didn’t love the romance in this book because the main character is only 14/15 and she’s got a major crush on one of the boys she’s traveling with. It felt a little much at times for her age and this being a lower YA book. I would personally bump that up to YA with the few kisses in this book and all her emotions about the boy. Because of one kiss lasting a while, I don’t think I would suggest this book for under ages 13. Their kisses honestly made me uncomfortable to read because of their ages. 😬
Aura isn’t the typical main character in a book with the Chosen One trope—while she knows she needs to make a stand and it’s important to her, she really doesn’t want to be a leader. She’s very emotional, a girly-girl, and has trauma from the events of the prior book. She’s not the perfect Chosen One and that’s very apparent when reading, but she’s the one who is stepping up to fight against the villain, so I have to appreciate her for that. She’s got a decent group around her that believes in what she’s fight for and against—a group that often gives her good advice and encouragement when she (often) needs it.
One thing I really liked in the first book was Aura’s love of girly things; I do this she took it a little far with doing her makeup while in the wilderness with savage dragons all around that want to eat her, but it made her happy to do a routine thing in the throws of chaos.
She definitely has her moody teenager attitude at times due to all the pressure she’s under—which includes snapping at others, pushing herself too hard and nearly dying, envy, and others having to encourage her. While I didn’t love these parts, she tried to handle it all as best as she could and reached her breaking point more than once. I honestly couldn’t blame her because of everything that was going on. She already going through a lot physically and mentally, but add in a teenaged girl’s hormones and a crush? Yeah, that’s a lot for any girl. (I will note that I think she passes out (because of pain, her powers, or being knocked out) more times than Nancy Drew.)
When I first started reading fantasy books, I didn’t really get the hype about dragons. I can it a little more now after consuming lots of fantasy books with these creatures, but I have to comment about the dragons in this series. There’s both good dragons (those that bond to a rider) and bad dragons (savage ones that weren’t able to bond to a human), which adds in a unique dynamic to this world. It’s not just “all the dragons are good and helpful” like some fantasy books, but it’s not “all the dragons are evil and cunning” like other fantasy book. How it’s done in this world makes sense and I enjoyed seeing more of both elements, the bonded dragons’ powers, and more world building in this sequel.
This second book ended with a cliffhanger and where I was expecting it would end. While I have theories about what will happen in the next and final book in this trilogy when it releases in October, I’m super curious to see what will actually take place!
Main Content-
Magic/Fantasy-
In this world, when a dragon is hatched, they are bonded together or the dragon will become “savage” and cause major destruction; Once someone is bonded to their dragon, they can communicate telepathically and the dragon gives their rider some of it’s power (this is called “Manifesting” and once this happens, the rider can often control fire, water, shadows, or have telekinesis based on the type of dragon; both of these elements are seen and are experienced on-page frequently including in fights and training); Aura has a power to gather light at throw it at someone/something (used and trained often throughout the book); If a rider uses too much of their power under stress, they can pass out and go to “the Void” which can kill them (*Spoilers* ); Aura realizes how strong her power is and becomes concerned that she could become a monster if she used it for the wrong reasons.
A “savage” dragon is one that is not bonded to a human and is more monster than dragon (it lives outside the kingdom’s walls); A rider and it’s dragon’s bonds can be “severed” (which is painful).
Mentions of luck & being lucky; A mention of Aura praying (but not towards Who); A mention of forbidden magic; A mention of karma.
Language + Attitudes-
Multiple uses of in-world fictional phrases/curses such as ‘thank the stars’, ‘for stars sake’, ‘stars above’, ‘what/why in the stars’, ‘scumming’, ‘dragon’s breath’ are either sighed or exclaimed; A curse is said by a side characters but not written out; One unfinished ‘what the—‘ is exclaimed; Other minor words like: ‘dumb’, ’stupid’, ‘idiot’, ’shut up’, and ‘kick butt’ are said; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Eavesdropping; Aura has moments of snapping at others in moments of intense emotions.
Negative + Dangerous situations-
Remembering & having nightmares from Book #1’s events (including fighting & seeing deaths, bodies, and blood; up to a handful of sentences and happens multiple times); Aura feels guilt over these events and has signs of PTSD from it all; Other side characters are grieving the lost of friends and family members.
Near death situations + thinking she is going to die, Fighting, Being attacked, Being knocked out, Being drugged and kidnapped, Being tied-up, Injuries, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, Passing out, & Throwing up (up to a handful of sentences); Fighting & Killing savage dragons (up to a handful of sentences); A dragon is injured and in pain (up to a few sentences); Panic attacks (up to a few sentences); Seeing the death of a loved one, deaths/bodies, others being killed or killing, battles/fights, attacks, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to a handful of sentences); Envy; Going to a pub.
Many mentions of wars/battles, the collapse of a kingdom, nearly dying/being killed, deaths (of friends and loved ones), & grief; Mentions of the possibility of deaths, being killed, or a dragon being hurt or killed; Mentions of violence; Mentions of fights/fighting & beatings; Mentions of a kidnapping & kidnappers; Mentions of injuries, blood/bleeding, & pain; Mentions of nightmares of traumatic events; Mentions of women and girls being kidnapped; Mentions of when Aura stole a dragon egg & disobeyed her guardian’s orders; Mentions of throwing up; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of strained family relationships (between parents and siblings), someone being disowned by his family, & manipulation from a parent; A few mentions of fires; A few mentions of implied alcohol, drinking, & drunks; A couple mentions of betting on sporting games; A couple mentions of cigars & smoke.
Romance/Sexual-
Staring at lips,
1 fingers-to-lips touch,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
1 kiss lasting 3-4 sentences,
1 kiss lasting 5-8 sentences,
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences),
Wanting to kiss & touch (up to a few sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Tingles/Sparks/Shivers, Warmth, Flutters, (up to a few sentences); Noticing, Staring, & Blushes (up to a few sentences).
Aura has a major crush on Kenric and wants to confess to him (*Spoilers* ).
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of girlfriends/boyfriends & courting; Mentions of crushes; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of handsome & cute guys; Mentions of dragons breeding and mating; A few mentions of longing for someone (of the opposite gender); A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of swooning over a boy or a romance; A couple mentions of girls’ figures and curves.
I didn’t love the romance in this book because the main character is only 14/15 and she’s got a major crush on one of the boys she’s traveling with. It felt a little much at times for her age and this being a lower YA book. I would personally bump that up to YA with the few kisses in this book and all her emotions about the boy. Because of one kiss lasting a while, I don’t think I would suggest this book for under ages 13. Their kisses honestly made me uncomfortable to read because of their ages. 😬
Aura isn’t the typical main character in a book with the Chosen One trope—while she knows she needs to make a stand and it’s important to her, she really doesn’t want to be a leader. She’s very emotional, a girly-girl, and has trauma from the events of the prior book. She’s not the perfect Chosen One and that’s very apparent when reading, but she’s the one who is stepping up to fight against the villain, so I have to appreciate her for that. She’s got a decent group around her that believes in what she’s fight for and against—a group that often gives her good advice and encouragement when she (often) needs it.
One thing I really liked in the first book was Aura’s love of girly things; I do this she took it a little far with doing her makeup while in the wilderness with savage dragons all around that want to eat her, but it made her happy to do a routine thing in the throws of chaos.
She definitely has her moody teenager attitude at times due to all the pressure she’s under—which includes snapping at others, pushing herself too hard and nearly dying, envy, and others having to encourage her. While I didn’t love these parts, she tried to handle it all as best as she could and reached her breaking point more than once. I honestly couldn’t blame her because of everything that was going on. She already going through a lot physically and mentally, but add in a teenaged girl’s hormones and a crush? Yeah, that’s a lot for any girl. (I will note that I think she passes out (because of pain, her powers, or being knocked out) more times than Nancy Drew.)
When I first started reading fantasy books, I didn’t really get the hype about dragons. I can it a little more now after consuming lots of fantasy books with these creatures, but I have to comment about the dragons in this series. There’s both good dragons (those that bond to a rider) and bad dragons (savage ones that weren’t able to bond to a human), which adds in a unique dynamic to this world. It’s not just “all the dragons are good and helpful” like some fantasy books, but it’s not “all the dragons are evil and cunning” like other fantasy book. How it’s done in this world makes sense and I enjoyed seeing more of both elements, the bonded dragons’ powers, and more world building in this sequel.
This second book ended with a cliffhanger and where I was expecting it would end. While I have theories about what will happen in the next and final book in this trilogy when it releases in October, I’m super curious to see what will actually take place!
Main Content-
Magic/Fantasy-
In this world, when a dragon is hatched, they are bonded together or the dragon will become “savage” and cause major destruction; Once someone is bonded to their dragon, they can communicate telepathically and the dragon gives their rider some of it’s power (this is called “Manifesting” and once this happens, the rider can often control fire, water, shadows, or have telekinesis based on the type of dragon; both of these elements are seen and are experienced on-page frequently including in fights and training); Aura has a power to gather light at throw it at someone/something (used and trained often throughout the book); If a rider uses too much of their power under stress, they can pass out and go to “the Void” which can kill them (*Spoilers* ); Aura realizes how strong her power is and becomes concerned that she could become a monster if she used it for the wrong reasons.
A “savage” dragon is one that is not bonded to a human and is more monster than dragon (it lives outside the kingdom’s walls); A rider and it’s dragon’s bonds can be “severed” (which is painful).
Mentions of luck & being lucky; A mention of Aura praying (but not towards Who); A mention of forbidden magic; A mention of karma.
Language + Attitudes-
Multiple uses of in-world fictional phrases/curses such as ‘thank the stars’, ‘for stars sake’, ‘stars above’, ‘what/why in the stars’, ‘scumming’, ‘dragon’s breath’ are either sighed or exclaimed; A curse is said by a side characters but not written out; One unfinished ‘what the—‘ is exclaimed; Other minor words like: ‘dumb’, ’stupid’, ‘idiot’, ’shut up’, and ‘kick butt’ are said; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Eavesdropping; Aura has moments of snapping at others in moments of intense emotions.
Negative + Dangerous situations-
Remembering & having nightmares from Book #1’s events (including fighting & seeing deaths, bodies, and blood; up to a handful of sentences and happens multiple times); Aura feels guilt over these events and has signs of PTSD from it all; Other side characters are grieving the lost of friends and family members.
Near death situations + thinking she is going to die, Fighting, Being attacked, Being knocked out, Being drugged and kidnapped, Being tied-up, Injuries, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, Passing out, & Throwing up (up to a handful of sentences); Fighting & Killing savage dragons (up to a handful of sentences); A dragon is injured and in pain (up to a few sentences); Panic attacks (up to a few sentences); Seeing the death of a loved one, deaths/bodies, others being killed or killing, battles/fights, attacks, injuries, & blood/bleeding (up to a handful of sentences); Envy; Going to a pub.
Many mentions of wars/battles, the collapse of a kingdom, nearly dying/being killed, deaths (of friends and loved ones), & grief; Mentions of the possibility of deaths, being killed, or a dragon being hurt or killed; Mentions of violence; Mentions of fights/fighting & beatings; Mentions of a kidnapping & kidnappers; Mentions of injuries, blood/bleeding, & pain; Mentions of nightmares of traumatic events; Mentions of women and girls being kidnapped; Mentions of when Aura stole a dragon egg & disobeyed her guardian’s orders; Mentions of throwing up; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of strained family relationships (between parents and siblings), someone being disowned by his family, & manipulation from a parent; A few mentions of fires; A few mentions of implied alcohol, drinking, & drunks; A couple mentions of betting on sporting games; A couple mentions of cigars & smoke.
Romance/Sexual-
Staring at lips,
1 fingers-to-lips touch,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
1 kiss lasting 3-4 sentences,
1 kiss lasting 5-8 sentences,
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences),
Wanting to kiss & touch (up to a few sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Tingles/Sparks/Shivers, Warmth, Flutters, (up to a few sentences); Noticing, Staring, & Blushes (up to a few sentences).
Aura has a major crush on Kenric and wants to confess to him (*Spoilers* ).
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of girlfriends/boyfriends & courting; Mentions of crushes; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of handsome & cute guys; Mentions of dragons breeding and mating; A few mentions of longing for someone (of the opposite gender); A couple mentions of flirting; A couple mentions of swooning over a boy or a romance; A couple mentions of girls’ figures and curves.
June 8, 2026
This was so good!! Such an amazing sequel. I can’t wait to see how this story ends. Such a well written book. Love the characters so much. So so good.
Thank you to the author for my copy.
Thank you to the author for my copy.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
How missed this! Hi!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be part of book 2 on the Empire of Dragons series. I don't know how to tell You how much I'm obssesed with Aura's development through SO many changes and twists (last books ending left me speachless) and turn she keeps going and protecting those she cares about and I'm in love with this style of development! So, before I get caught on balbering about that, let's start the review.
About Aura
I am amazed by the character development. She went from a kid wanting to be a rider without thinking twice about the consequences (not because she was evil, just young) to a woman always taking precautions to protect others from her decisions.Aura's narrative reminded me of Katniss—her loneliness and survivor's guilt, and her tendency to blame herself even when she isn't at fault. It was a total "deja vu" moment for me.
I remember how her journey began filled with awe and a desire to become a dragon rider; now, it’s shocking to see her growth from childlike amazement to a mature sense of responsibility. She understands the dangers her connection brings to her loved ones, which felt like a throwback to the great 2000s FMCs.
On a different note, I loved that Aura became more strategic and calculating. She doesn’t just follow her instincts anymore; she combines them with actual plans (even if they don’t work every time). I also loved that Desy became a guide during Aura's moments of emotional stress; it was an interesting shift to see "baby" Desy grow into a "young adult" Desy taking care of Aura.
Also, it was wonderful to see the Professor allowing himself to be the father figure we all knew he was to Aura; those small scenes in Chapter 2 were adorable.
About Kenric
He is absolutely adorable! His interactions with Aura are so kind and supportive. It’s funny that now that he knows Aura's identity, he is such a gentleman toward her while remaining genuine. He still has his witty remarks, but he has evolved into a new role: Aura's protector. I loved that he stayed loyal and trusted her the whole way, even when every clue pointed toward Aura being untrustworthy.
About the World-Building
I expected the world-building to expand, but man, it was huge! It was amazing, but also dark and aggressive toward the characters. In the last book, the environment felt "protected" in a way, but in this installment, the characters face much darker situations, including psychological trauma like PTSD.
I liked how the narrative evolved alongside the plot. It didn’t stay innocent; it grew with Aura. It’s as if the maturity of the protagonist shifted how we see the world. In the first book, I imagined things as more colorful and light because of Aura’s perspective; in this book, the world felt overwhelming and far more dangerous.
About the Dynamic Between MCs
I got major flashbacks to Katniss and Peeta—that shy attitude mixed with evident mutual attraction. I love that their friendship is prioritized over the romance. Often, books prioritize physical attraction over a genuine connection, but I love the respect Aura and Kenric have for each other as individuals.
I also felt a "Percy and Annabeth" type of yearning—the fierce protectiveness they have while being best friends. Their attraction grows from mutual respect, and you can really see it develop throughout the book.
About Theoden
I did not expect his character growth! Honestly, I thought his attitude might change a little, but I was pleasantly surprised by the dynamic shift between him and Aura. He actually became a support for her, proving that all it took was some empathy and honesty between them.
Final Thoughts
Ma'am, you deserve a big round of applause! This was an amazing second book, and the ending caught me completely off guard. I normally get frustrated because "sequel syndrome" can make second books feel weird or boring, but this one caught my attention and wouldn't let go!
To any reader in need of a great series involving dragons and high stakes—and if you love main characters who feel like a mix of the biggest couples in the bookish community (Katniss/Peeta and Percy/Annabeth)—then Flame of Defiance is for you!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go cry about the ending and theorize about what's next.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to be part of book 2 on the Empire of Dragons series. I don't know how to tell You how much I'm obssesed with Aura's development through SO many changes and twists (last books ending left me speachless) and turn she keeps going and protecting those she cares about and I'm in love with this style of development! So, before I get caught on balbering about that, let's start the review.
About Aura
I am amazed by the character development. She went from a kid wanting to be a rider without thinking twice about the consequences (not because she was evil, just young) to a woman always taking precautions to protect others from her decisions.Aura's narrative reminded me of Katniss—her loneliness and survivor's guilt, and her tendency to blame herself even when she isn't at fault. It was a total "deja vu" moment for me.
I remember how her journey began filled with awe and a desire to become a dragon rider; now, it’s shocking to see her growth from childlike amazement to a mature sense of responsibility. She understands the dangers her connection brings to her loved ones, which felt like a throwback to the great 2000s FMCs.
On a different note, I loved that Aura became more strategic and calculating. She doesn’t just follow her instincts anymore; she combines them with actual plans (even if they don’t work every time). I also loved that Desy became a guide during Aura's moments of emotional stress; it was an interesting shift to see "baby" Desy grow into a "young adult" Desy taking care of Aura.
Also, it was wonderful to see the Professor allowing himself to be the father figure we all knew he was to Aura; those small scenes in Chapter 2 were adorable.
About Kenric
He is absolutely adorable! His interactions with Aura are so kind and supportive. It’s funny that now that he knows Aura's identity, he is such a gentleman toward her while remaining genuine. He still has his witty remarks, but he has evolved into a new role: Aura's protector. I loved that he stayed loyal and trusted her the whole way, even when every clue pointed toward Aura being untrustworthy.
About the World-Building
I expected the world-building to expand, but man, it was huge! It was amazing, but also dark and aggressive toward the characters. In the last book, the environment felt "protected" in a way, but in this installment, the characters face much darker situations, including psychological trauma like PTSD.
I liked how the narrative evolved alongside the plot. It didn’t stay innocent; it grew with Aura. It’s as if the maturity of the protagonist shifted how we see the world. In the first book, I imagined things as more colorful and light because of Aura’s perspective; in this book, the world felt overwhelming and far more dangerous.
About the Dynamic Between MCs
I got major flashbacks to Katniss and Peeta—that shy attitude mixed with evident mutual attraction. I love that their friendship is prioritized over the romance. Often, books prioritize physical attraction over a genuine connection, but I love the respect Aura and Kenric have for each other as individuals.
I also felt a "Percy and Annabeth" type of yearning—the fierce protectiveness they have while being best friends. Their attraction grows from mutual respect, and you can really see it develop throughout the book.
About Theoden
I did not expect his character growth! Honestly, I thought his attitude might change a little, but I was pleasantly surprised by the dynamic shift between him and Aura. He actually became a support for her, proving that all it took was some empathy and honesty between them.
Final Thoughts
Ma'am, you deserve a big round of applause! This was an amazing second book, and the ending caught me completely off guard. I normally get frustrated because "sequel syndrome" can make second books feel weird or boring, but this one caught my attention and wouldn't let go!
To any reader in need of a great series involving dragons and high stakes—and if you love main characters who feel like a mix of the biggest couples in the bookish community (Katniss/Peeta and Percy/Annabeth)—then Flame of Defiance is for you!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go cry about the ending and theorize about what's next.
June 20, 2026
This is a solid sequel that picks up immediately where book 1 left off. Overall there’s a very good mix of action as well as character development scenes that make these characters seem more human. I think people (myself included) tend to view book characters as needing to be super mature and always make the right decisions; especially if they are the main characters, regardless of their ages. These main characters are 15-17 years old and have been thrust into a world that they were unprepared for, some more than others. This book dives deeper into what it’s like to really experience the world, fight for what you believe in, but also have to deal with trauma/scars from the past…like there’s not a lot they are already dealing with as teenagers.
What I feel this book does fairly well is show the range of how the world and society in general behaves when war is coming. Some have experienced devastation already while others are pretending war isn’t coming or are completely unaware that something is happening in a neighboring kingdom. Then you have kids that want to make a difference but realize that the world is more complicated than they realize…even though maybe it shouldn’t be that complicated. You have adults that dismiss/degrade teens for their lack of experience, ones that try to protect them/keep them innocent, and others that fully support/encourage them to challenge beliefs.
Probably the most triggering parts of this book would be the increased violence (though there’s not a lot of gore or gratuitous violence…it’s more along the lines of what you would read in books like The Maze Runner or The Hunger Games) and the focus on mental health in response to the events that happened in the first book. I think the author does well to navigate through these issues and show that sometimes you can take one step forward, then two steps back…meaning that healing isn’t a straight line or a one time process. There’s an importance of leaning on friends and trusted adults in times of struggle and how holding thoughts and emotions in instead of shedding light on them.
There’s also a very romantic subplot that was hinted at in the first book and is brought up again in this one that is cute and does provide some levity and reprieve from the heaviness of everything else happening in the book.
I love that I can enjoy this book as someone in her mid-30s even though it’s marketed for young teens and I’m excited to read the final book when it gets released in October.
I’m thankful for the author for allowing me the privilege of being a Beta and ARC reader for this series. It’s been a joy and I wouldn’t be continuing this series if I absolutely didn’t enjoy it. These thoughts/views are my own honest ones.
What I feel this book does fairly well is show the range of how the world and society in general behaves when war is coming. Some have experienced devastation already while others are pretending war isn’t coming or are completely unaware that something is happening in a neighboring kingdom. Then you have kids that want to make a difference but realize that the world is more complicated than they realize…even though maybe it shouldn’t be that complicated. You have adults that dismiss/degrade teens for their lack of experience, ones that try to protect them/keep them innocent, and others that fully support/encourage them to challenge beliefs.
Probably the most triggering parts of this book would be the increased violence (though there’s not a lot of gore or gratuitous violence…it’s more along the lines of what you would read in books like The Maze Runner or The Hunger Games) and the focus on mental health in response to the events that happened in the first book. I think the author does well to navigate through these issues and show that sometimes you can take one step forward, then two steps back…meaning that healing isn’t a straight line or a one time process. There’s an importance of leaning on friends and trusted adults in times of struggle and how holding thoughts and emotions in instead of shedding light on them.
There’s also a very romantic subplot that was hinted at in the first book and is brought up again in this one that is cute and does provide some levity and reprieve from the heaviness of everything else happening in the book.
I love that I can enjoy this book as someone in her mid-30s even though it’s marketed for young teens and I’m excited to read the final book when it gets released in October.
I’m thankful for the author for allowing me the privilege of being a Beta and ARC reader for this series. It’s been a joy and I wouldn’t be continuing this series if I absolutely didn’t enjoy it. These thoughts/views are my own honest ones.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
If anyone is looking for me I'm sitting in silence until October 😭 This is an honest review of Flame of Defiance which I was privileged to be provided an advanced reader copy for.
It started of better than the first, probably because the world and the characters had been built. It did take a while to get gripped, but from 20% to 80% was one sitting.
I'm not a romance reader but I definitely approve of this romance, it's the right amount of physical attraction and a built bond.
All the MCS are really well written, though honestly not sure why the prince was written in. Feels like the author introduced him to fix a plot hole, but not to really add to the atmosphere.
I really liked the reintroduction of some of the non MCs from book one, such as Kenrics Family and Auras friend (Maple I believe - who broke my heart btw).
The natural build of their skills was well written, enough to fit the storyline but proportional to what seemed believable, especially for Aura.
This book definitely had more poetic lines then the last, many scenes I had to momentarily put the phone down to just soak in a line or scene, especially with her inner doubts, and her building relationships with the other MCs as they grew to trust her.
And that ending 😶I won't spoil it, but it's worth it. Can't wait for book 3.
If anyone is looking for me I'm sitting in silence until October 😭 This is an honest review of Flame of Defiance which I was privileged to be provided an advanced reader copy for.
It started of better than the first, probably because the world and the characters had been built. It did take a while to get gripped, but from 20% to 80% was one sitting.
I'm not a romance reader but I definitely approve of this romance, it's the right amount of physical attraction and a built bond.
All the MCS are really well written, though honestly not sure why the prince was written in. Feels like the author introduced him to fix a plot hole, but not to really add to the atmosphere.
I really liked the reintroduction of some of the non MCs from book one, such as Kenrics Family and Auras friend (Maple I believe - who broke my heart btw).
The natural build of their skills was well written, enough to fit the storyline but proportional to what seemed believable, especially for Aura.
This book definitely had more poetic lines then the last, many scenes I had to momentarily put the phone down to just soak in a line or scene, especially with her inner doubts, and her building relationships with the other MCs as they grew to trust her.
And that ending 😶I won't spoil it, but it's worth it. Can't wait for book 3.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Flame of Defiance is an exciting, fast paced book perfect for middle grade/YA readers. While personally I found it to be a bit below my reading level, I think younger readers would love the thrilling dragon riding found in Flame of Defiance. I appreciated the developing father/daughter relationship between Roscoe and Aura. It was especially endearing to me especially after the slower growth in Spark of Secrets. Kenric and Aura are so cute together! I also love the dragon/ rider relationship, especially between Desy and Aura. Their loyalty and commitment to each other is precious. There were couple of plot points that I feel like could have been worked out a bit more, and some small world building issues, which is why I didn't give it a full five stars. Overall though, a fun and engaging read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! What a great book!! I enjoyed it so much! It's a bit more serious than the first book, Spark of Secrets but it's because they have to fight a growing rebellion.
It's Hunger Games meets How to Train Your Dragon.
There are lot's of opportunities of growth for each character as they gain experience in fighting and in understanding the high stakes that have been set.
Each character gets to shine and that makes this story so intriguing. We get to see them struggle and learn.
Themes of finding family, lasting friendships and how people can change are key to this story.
It's fun! I can't wait to read the third book!
It's Hunger Games meets How to Train Your Dragon.
There are lot's of opportunities of growth for each character as they gain experience in fighting and in understanding the high stakes that have been set.
Each character gets to shine and that makes this story so intriguing. We get to see them struggle and learn.
Themes of finding family, lasting friendships and how people can change are key to this story.
It's fun! I can't wait to read the third book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in the series delivers even more action, higher stakes, and sweeter romance! 😁I really enjoyed Flame of Defiance, and there were a couple plot twists I didn’t see coming (both good and bad ones). This series is written for lower young adult, (but obviously any age can read and like them!), so the characters actually act there age of 15 with a lot of squabbling and confusing emotions. I appreciated Aura’s character development and watching her grow into her own. Excited for the next book!
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book! I LOVE this YA series!
Aura is filled with guilt as a result of the events at the end of book 1 in this series. She ventures into the Wild Lands to try and find the rebel base and end the rebellion. Along the way she encounters a prince who convinces her to join a dangerous competition called the Rider's Games. Once she gets there however, they turn out to be much more dangerous than she could've ever imagined.
Aura is filled with guilt as a result of the events at the end of book 1 in this series. She ventures into the Wild Lands to try and find the rebel base and end the rebellion. Along the way she encounters a prince who convinces her to join a dangerous competition called the Rider's Games. Once she gets there however, they turn out to be much more dangerous than she could've ever imagined.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️
This is such a good and compelling YA series. I really enjoyed the first book and couldn’t wait to find out what happened in the second book. The pace is great and I really like all of the characters. I really enjoyed the growing relationship between Aura and Kenric The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat and the cliffhangers in these books are so good, they definitely leave me wanting to read more!
This is such a good and compelling YA series. I really enjoyed the first book and couldn’t wait to find out what happened in the second book. The pace is great and I really like all of the characters. I really enjoyed the growing relationship between Aura and Kenric The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat and the cliffhangers in these books are so good, they definitely leave me wanting to read more!
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