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Darkest Drae #3
Black Crown
I will not be ruled by fear.
A depraved emperor. A wasted realm. A dying race.
With Tyrrik by my side, I’ll lead the charge to remedy it all.
After discovering the rightful heir to the Phaetyn, an alliance with the healers should be easy as pancakes. But while the armies of Verald and Gemond march to the border for war, the emperor delivers a crushing blow that threatens to put everything at risk.
As I fight my father’s staggering power, I’m compelled to face evil on his terms. A twisted darkness worse than anything I’ve experienced.
Nothing could’ve prepared me for this.
How far would you go to defeat a merciless sovereign?
I’ll lie to the liars.
I’ll betray the betrayers.
I’ll kill the killers.
I will conquer my fear.
If you love dark fantasy, you'll be captivated by The Darkest Drae. With pulse-pounding action, witty humor, and slow-burn romance you’ll fall in love with dragons like you’ve never seen before. Scroll up and one-click now!
Due to thematic elements this series is recommended for mature YA+
A depraved emperor. A wasted realm. A dying race.
With Tyrrik by my side, I’ll lead the charge to remedy it all.
After discovering the rightful heir to the Phaetyn, an alliance with the healers should be easy as pancakes. But while the armies of Verald and Gemond march to the border for war, the emperor delivers a crushing blow that threatens to put everything at risk.
As I fight my father’s staggering power, I’m compelled to face evil on his terms. A twisted darkness worse than anything I’ve experienced.
Nothing could’ve prepared me for this.
How far would you go to defeat a merciless sovereign?
I’ll lie to the liars.
I’ll betray the betrayers.
I’ll kill the killers.
I will conquer my fear.
If you love dark fantasy, you'll be captivated by The Darkest Drae. With pulse-pounding action, witty humor, and slow-burn romance you’ll fall in love with dragons like you’ve never seen before. Scroll up and one-click now!
Due to thematic elements this series is recommended for mature YA+
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2018
3208 people are currently reading
4605 people want to read
About the author
Raye Wagner
35 books1,217 followersRAYE WAGNER is the USA Today Bestselling author of young adult fantasy books, but she hates writing bios. She’d much rather tell you a story. She’s partial to fantasy, with dragons or magic or something so she can lie and not feel guilty. She also has an obsession with sweets (all the bakery goodies), nerf wars, wigs, and occasionally tutus.
When she isn’t writing, shenanigating (I’m sure that’s a word), or lying, Raye is with her family . . . preferably at the beach.
Come chat with me! I love to hear from readers. You can connect with me via Facebook (Raye Wagner), Twitter (@rayewagner), Instagram (rayewagnerauthor), or her website: rayewagner.com
When she isn’t writing, shenanigating (I’m sure that’s a word), or lying, Raye is with her family . . . preferably at the beach.
Come chat with me! I love to hear from readers. You can connect with me via Facebook (Raye Wagner), Twitter (@rayewagner), Instagram (rayewagnerauthor), or her website: rayewagner.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews
July 25, 2019
New rule: you REALLY should NOT be having sex if you have to resort to using juvenile terms (like 'playing cards' and 'dancing the maypole') because you apparently feel uncomfortable using the word 'sex'. Every time either of those phrases were used (24 times total), I got the sick feeling that a child instead of a young woman was having sex, and it seriously disturbed me especially considering her mate is over a hundred years old. This was way worse than the usage of 'pancakes' as a curse word, which still happened in this book too (21 times in case you were curious).
Basically this book should be titled 'Really Immature Girl Should Not Be In A Relationship Nevermind Be In Charge Of A War". I couldn't get past how silly this book was at times. I mean, the book ends with a potato growing contest for goodness sake. This series started off so strong with a no-holds-barred look at captivity/torture (well, for a YA book anyways). And then it ends in this silly fluff. It's like different people wrote that first book, I don't get it. Do Not Recommend.
Basically this book should be titled 'Really Immature Girl Should Not Be In A Relationship Nevermind Be In Charge Of A War". I couldn't get past how silly this book was at times. I mean, the book ends with a potato growing contest for goodness sake. This series started off so strong with a no-holds-barred look at captivity/torture (well, for a YA book anyways). And then it ends in this silly fluff. It's like different people wrote that first book, I don't get it. Do Not Recommend.
January 31, 2023
2.75 Stars
September 16, 2025
Remember all that stuff I loved from the second book??
it's here !!
Remember all that stuff I hated from the first book??
...it is also here *dammit*
꧁The Characters꧂
Ryn our phaetyn is back. And we are both completely head-over-feels for the love interest Tyrrik
The second book highlighted the enemies to lovers trope with Ryn in complete denial over her feelings. This third continued their awesome relationship dynamic as they shifted into the roles of power couple-- wanting to support each other through bad jokes and bodily harm as needed
They had their cute banter moments.
They had their ... disagreements
“You can’t protect me from everything, Tyrrik. That is not a burden I want you to carry. No one should have to.”
“It is who I am!” he roared. “I am a Drae. You are mine to protect. It is my privilege and my purpose”
And they made weird-ass squirrel jokes to keep calm before going into battle
“We’ll be okay, my love. I’ll make it okay. And there is some good news.
Yeah? You defeated the one-eyed squirrel as I slept? I quipped.
Tyrrik’s joy at my humor radiated through our bond.
No, he said solemnly. He still runs rampant, leading a life of debauchery. Worse, he’s inspiring others to join his band of nefarious villainy.
Did I think that one day I’d be flying next to Lord Nightmare listening to his jokes about squirrels? Not for a second. Obviously, it was the little things for him.
We’re heading the wrong way then. He’s the real enemy.”
It was just friggen hilarious reading as the two navigated to be a couple WHILE organizing kingdoms for a fight WHILE learning their different abilities. To be completely honest, I reread this series just for Tyrrik’s character arc that he undergoes!
꧁Worldbuilding꧂
I honestly just adore this world and the writing style of the author. It brought a completely new twist to the shapeshifting, evil dragon king, heroine learning powers cliches.
“We have an emperor to kill, I said to Tyrrik conversationally as I cut through a potato and popped it into my mouth.
He swallowed his mouthful and poured more gravy onto his chicken. Yes, my love. We do.”
The plot picks up to show the ramifications after Ryn has visited all the kingdoms. Now they just all need to not kill each other work together in order to fight the invading emperor and heal their lands !
Teamworks makes the dream work
Also the author had a creative take on dragons which is not easy to do! The possessiveness over treasure and pure hedonism was completely on par with how a narcissistic baby dragon would be. Don't even TRY to tell me that IF YOU SUDDENLY TURNED INTO A DRAGON that you wouldn't admire YOUR BEAUTIFUL SCALES and WANT A PILE OF TREASURE.
꧁Secondary Characters꧂
It was pretty great seeing Ryn interact with other major players in this world with Lani, Kamoi, and Prince Zarad.
While she does have some ✨chosen one vibes✨, she definitely isn't a battle general or kingdom leader. And I really liked that. One character does not have to be ALL the special things.
”My M-word often said no to things, lots of things, really. I decided then and there to translate the word as yes from now on. I said to Lani, “Great, so when do we leave?”
Overall, I love this series for the creative world, the great characters and plot. But as a finale book, I have a couple critiques.
The stylistic choices for the main character’s reverted personality to naivity with the nonstop jokes that came across as -- I don't care--. For a lotta people, the resurgence of Ryn's juvenile personality was inexcusable and they were unable to look past her youthful written perspective. I’m not gonna lie, it was pretty cringe even for YA. She says 'pancakes' as a curse word and refers to sex as 'dancing the maypole'
And I gotta admit that it did get lili annoying at times, it away from the intended danger and adventure elements. But I tried to just enjoy her inner dialogue as a hilarious element to narrate the dangerous situations because that is her coping mechanism
Also, remember that stupidly specific torture stuff from the first book that the author was totally flexing on their torture knowledge?
Its backkkkk ! Why?!
The side plot interactions with the emperor and the backstory of her mother, was frankly disturbing and awkward to read.
It felt unnecessary.
I really didn't need those details AT ALL! And honestly have no idea what purpose that tangent was suppose to serve for the reader, except take up pages from our cute couple. It didn't humanize the emperor at all and only seemed to gear them up for a battle THAT THEY WERE ALREADY PLANNING ON DOING.
That choice really took away from this book as a finale that that time would've been better spent (1) power training (2) the kingdoms working together (3) looking for a secret weapon (4) organizing the rest of Drae to fight (5) literally anything else besides being stuck in hoping they will have sex so *wtf*
So would I recommend this series? Absolutely ! It's a really great dragon book. I get that this series is also pretty easy to hate on. There are clearly some issues with this series and you could spend the whole time critiquing it. But the fun characters, unique magic & worldbuilding kept me intrigued and re-reading this series almost yearly. And I don't say that about a lottta books.
it's here !!
Remember all that stuff I hated from the first book??
...it is also here *dammit*
꧁The Characters꧂
Ryn our phaetyn is back. And we are both completely head-over-feels for the love interest Tyrrik
The second book highlighted the enemies to lovers trope with Ryn in complete denial over her feelings. This third continued their awesome relationship dynamic as they shifted into the roles of power couple-- wanting to support each other through bad jokes and bodily harm as needed
They had their cute banter moments.
They had their ... disagreements
“You can’t protect me from everything, Tyrrik. That is not a burden I want you to carry. No one should have to.”
“It is who I am!” he roared. “I am a Drae. You are mine to protect. It is my privilege and my purpose”
And they made weird-ass squirrel jokes to keep calm before going into battle
“We’ll be okay, my love. I’ll make it okay. And there is some good news.
Yeah? You defeated the one-eyed squirrel as I slept? I quipped.
Tyrrik’s joy at my humor radiated through our bond.
No, he said solemnly. He still runs rampant, leading a life of debauchery. Worse, he’s inspiring others to join his band of nefarious villainy.
Did I think that one day I’d be flying next to Lord Nightmare listening to his jokes about squirrels? Not for a second. Obviously, it was the little things for him.
We’re heading the wrong way then. He’s the real enemy.”
It was just friggen hilarious reading as the two navigated to be a couple WHILE organizing kingdoms for a fight WHILE learning their different abilities. To be completely honest, I reread this series just for Tyrrik’s character arc that he undergoes!
꧁Worldbuilding꧂
I honestly just adore this world and the writing style of the author. It brought a completely new twist to the shapeshifting, evil dragon king, heroine learning powers cliches.
“We have an emperor to kill, I said to Tyrrik conversationally as I cut through a potato and popped it into my mouth.
He swallowed his mouthful and poured more gravy onto his chicken. Yes, my love. We do.”
The plot picks up to show the ramifications after Ryn has visited all the kingdoms. Now they just all need to
Teamworks makes the dream work
Also the author had a creative take on dragons which is not easy to do! The possessiveness over treasure and pure hedonism was completely on par with how a narcissistic baby dragon would be. Don't even TRY to tell me that IF YOU SUDDENLY TURNED INTO A DRAGON that you wouldn't admire YOUR BEAUTIFUL SCALES and WANT A PILE OF TREASURE.
꧁Secondary Characters꧂
It was pretty great seeing Ryn interact with other major players in this world with Lani, Kamoi, and Prince Zarad.
While she does have some ✨chosen one vibes✨, she definitely isn't a battle general or kingdom leader. And I really liked that. One character does not have to be ALL the special things.
”My M-word often said no to things, lots of things, really. I decided then and there to translate the word as yes from now on. I said to Lani, “Great, so when do we leave?”
Overall, I love this series for the creative world, the great characters and plot. But as a finale book, I have a couple critiques.
The stylistic choices for the main character’s reverted personality to naivity with the nonstop jokes that came across as -- I don't care--. For a lotta people, the resurgence of Ryn's juvenile personality was inexcusable and they were unable to look past her youthful written perspective. I’m not gonna lie, it was pretty cringe even for YA. She says 'pancakes' as a curse word and refers to sex as 'dancing the maypole'
And I gotta admit that it did get lili annoying at times, it away from the intended danger and adventure elements. But I tried to just enjoy her inner dialogue as a hilarious element to narrate the dangerous situations because that is her coping mechanism
Also, remember that stupidly specific torture stuff from the first book that the author was totally flexing on their torture knowledge?
Its backkkkk ! Why?!
The side plot interactions with the emperor and the backstory of her mother, was frankly disturbing and awkward to read.
It felt unnecessary.
I really didn't need those details AT ALL! And honestly have no idea what purpose that tangent was suppose to serve for the reader, except take up pages from our cute couple. It didn't humanize the emperor at all and only seemed to gear them up for a battle THAT THEY WERE ALREADY PLANNING ON DOING.
That choice really took away from this book as a finale that that time would've been better spent (1) power training (2) the kingdoms working together (3) looking for a secret weapon (4) organizing the rest of Drae to fight (5) literally anything else besides being stuck in hoping they will have sex so *wtf*
So would I recommend this series? Absolutely ! It's a really great dragon book. I get that this series is also pretty easy to hate on. There are clearly some issues with this series and you could spend the whole time critiquing it. But the fun characters, unique magic & worldbuilding kept me intrigued and re-reading this series almost yearly. And I don't say that about a lottta books.
July 2, 2018
you know when you build something up in your head and expect it to be great...and then if is absolutely horrible? this wasn’t that. it was everything i wanted-needed-and more; frankly, i have no words to describe what i just read. it was worth it
6/29/18:
tomorrow...
6/19/18:
11 DAYS LEFT...ALMOST THERE
5/30/18:
A month left to go folks, WE’RE ALMOST THERE!!
4/24/18:
NO. THIS IS NOT OK. I AM NOT OKAY WITH THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT. THE RELEASE HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO JUNE 30th
2/10/18:
WHO ELSE IS READY FOR MORE TYRRIK??? Just curious...is it May yet?
6/29/18:
tomorrow...
6/19/18:
11 DAYS LEFT...ALMOST THERE
5/30/18:
A month left to go folks, WE’RE ALMOST THERE!!
4/24/18:
NO. THIS IS NOT OK. I AM NOT OKAY WITH THIS NEW DEVELOPMENT. THE RELEASE HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO JUNE 30th
2/10/18:
WHO ELSE IS READY FOR MORE TYRRIK??? Just curious...is it May yet?
March 24, 2021
I don't have it in me to list out all the reasons this was bad.
but @ryn, lets be clear on one thing: if you cannot say or think the word 'sex' and have to resort to using euphemisms like 'playing cards' to describe the act, you should not be fucken!
love,
your biggest hater xx
but @ryn, lets be clear on one thing: if you cannot say or think the word 'sex' and have to resort to using euphemisms like 'playing cards' to describe the act, you should not be fucken!
love,
your biggest hater xx
Currently reading
February 9, 2018* SO EXCITED * *IS IT MAY ALREADY FOR BLACK CROWN?*
*MORE DRAE PLEASE*
*MORE DRAE PLEASE*
August 29, 2018
Holy pancakes!
I loved the end of this book, even if I didn't love Ryn's idiosyncratic slang. Once again, Wagner had me surprised - and heartbroken. Characters I loved from the first two books were falling to the ground like autumn leaves. An epic battle has epic consequences.
But first, the path to the epic battle was exciting and adventurous. Ryn continues to develop her powers and new characters are introduced to engage your emotions, make you laugh and cry, and cringe a little in horror. I liked the fact that this book delved a little more into humor to break up the mounting tension and danger as Tyrrik, Ryn and their band of merry men and women move on to confront the emperor. Usually a final epic fantasy book is steeped in seriousness, as the characters all get caught up in their terrifying reality. However, Wagner switched it on us. Book one was a scare-fest with lots and lots of torture. Book three, while still quite dark, especially as concerns the female Drae and their situation, manages to hang on to its joy a little. This is most ably demonstrated as the mate bond between Tyrrik and Ryn, who can't manage to hide their obsession with one another from all the many, many secondary characters around them. It is kind of funny, as is Ryn's practice with her abilities.
Then comes the serious stuff. Adult themes are skirted, with the weirdest being how an orgy is portrayed in a mature YA book, but terrible things do happen, mainly to women. Daddy Drae is completely despicable. And it is disconcerting that Tyrrik, who is not the alpha Drae, is really no match. It will takes smarts and cunning to defeat the dragon emperor and history has shown that he is impossible to dethrone.
Book source: Kindle Unlimited
I loved the end of this book, even if I didn't love Ryn's idiosyncratic slang. Once again, Wagner had me surprised - and heartbroken. Characters I loved from the first two books were falling to the ground like autumn leaves. An epic battle has epic consequences.
But first, the path to the epic battle was exciting and adventurous. Ryn continues to develop her powers and new characters are introduced to engage your emotions, make you laugh and cry, and cringe a little in horror. I liked the fact that this book delved a little more into humor to break up the mounting tension and danger as Tyrrik, Ryn and their band of merry men and women move on to confront the emperor. Usually a final epic fantasy book is steeped in seriousness, as the characters all get caught up in their terrifying reality. However, Wagner switched it on us. Book one was a scare-fest with lots and lots of torture. Book three, while still quite dark, especially as concerns the female Drae and their situation, manages to hang on to its joy a little. This is most ably demonstrated as the mate bond between Tyrrik and Ryn, who can't manage to hide their obsession with one another from all the many, many secondary characters around them. It is kind of funny, as is Ryn's practice with her abilities.
Then comes the serious stuff. Adult themes are skirted, with the weirdest being how an orgy is portrayed in a mature YA book, but terrible things do happen, mainly to women. Daddy Drae is completely despicable. And it is disconcerting that Tyrrik, who is not the alpha Drae, is really no match. It will takes smarts and cunning to defeat the dragon emperor and history has shown that he is impossible to dethrone.
Book source: Kindle Unlimited
July 17, 2018
Almost a DNF
I don’t have a ton to say about the book. I finished it for the sake of finishing.
My biggest turn offs for novels are adults who act like children. I don’t want to read about people having sex if they’re too immature to call it sex. There’s only so many times you can refer to it as “dancing the maypole” and “playing cards” before it just gets too cringe to continue. It really made me feel like I was reading about a young preteen having sex and that made me feel ALL SORTS OF UNCOMFORTABLE.
Another issue I had- the pancakes thing. That catchphrase annoyed me to no end! HOLY PANCAKES HAHA HOW QUIRKY. Ughhh. And in the ending fight sequence? When Tyrrick was like “hit him with the whole stack of pancakes babe” I almost threw my phone.
The ending felt rushed and confusing. I had to reread chapters a few times to understand what was happening. Was he dead? Not dead? Were they both dead? I think the book actually would have ended really well if Tyrrick had died. I was kind of hoping for it.
Oh! So, for 3 books, we heard Tyrrick talk about his hoard. ...did he ever show Ryn? The last couple chapters were such a blur that I couldn’t figure out if he did or not. Seems like a waste that we didn’t get to read about her reaction. I was kind of looking forward to it.
Look, it’s not a bad series. I finished it. I just think that people who are teetering on the edge of giving up YA novels might feel similarly to me. I hope that if the author reads this, she doesn’t feel sorely about the review. Lots of other people seemed to like the series, I guess I’m just too old. :(
I don’t have a ton to say about the book. I finished it for the sake of finishing.
My biggest turn offs for novels are adults who act like children. I don’t want to read about people having sex if they’re too immature to call it sex. There’s only so many times you can refer to it as “dancing the maypole” and “playing cards” before it just gets too cringe to continue. It really made me feel like I was reading about a young preteen having sex and that made me feel ALL SORTS OF UNCOMFORTABLE.
Another issue I had- the pancakes thing. That catchphrase annoyed me to no end! HOLY PANCAKES HAHA HOW QUIRKY. Ughhh. And in the ending fight sequence? When Tyrrick was like “hit him with the whole stack of pancakes babe” I almost threw my phone.
The ending felt rushed and confusing. I had to reread chapters a few times to understand what was happening. Was he dead? Not dead? Were they both dead? I think the book actually would have ended really well if Tyrrick had died. I was kind of hoping for it.
Oh! So, for 3 books, we heard Tyrrick talk about his hoard. ...did he ever show Ryn? The last couple chapters were such a blur that I couldn’t figure out if he did or not. Seems like a waste that we didn’t get to read about her reaction. I was kind of looking forward to it.
Look, it’s not a bad series. I finished it. I just think that people who are teetering on the edge of giving up YA novels might feel similarly to me. I hope that if the author reads this, she doesn’t feel sorely about the review. Lots of other people seemed to like the series, I guess I’m just too old. :(
October 16, 2018
DNF at 55%
I cannot give a single fuck about anything that happens. This series started off so strong, I invested. Then this book came, and gross.
I'm bored. Nothing is happening, n-o-t-h-i-n-g.
I'm uncomfortable. The author spent over two books building this lusty angst only to have it be juvenile and awkward. I have zero interest in reading about someones sex life when they can't even use proper terms for things because they are JUVENILE AND AWKWARD. Hard pass.
I'm annoyed. This author took a phrase, "holy pancakes" and used it 189 times too many. In fact, the first time that collection of words hit the page, she should have hit the fucking back button. It's not endearing, pls stop.
I tried for two months to push through this book, thinking if I just read a bit more, something would push the plot forward but it's halfway through and basically, they've been moving the army across an area of land... and sleeping in tents. NO MORE.
I cannot give a single fuck about anything that happens. This series started off so strong, I invested. Then this book came, and gross.
I'm bored. Nothing is happening, n-o-t-h-i-n-g.
I'm uncomfortable. The author spent over two books building this lusty angst only to have it be juvenile and awkward. I have zero interest in reading about someones sex life when they can't even use proper terms for things because they are JUVENILE AND AWKWARD. Hard pass.
I'm annoyed. This author took a phrase, "holy pancakes" and used it 189 times too many. In fact, the first time that collection of words hit the page, she should have hit the fucking back button. It's not endearing, pls stop.
I tried for two months to push through this book, thinking if I just read a bit more, something would push the plot forward but it's halfway through and basically, they've been moving the army across an area of land... and sleeping in tents. NO MORE.
April 10, 2020
a really great and satisfying conclusion. even though everything ended the way i thought it would, it was still nice to see how everything played out. not enough ryn and tyrrick together for me to love this as much as the second book, but still completely enjoyable. this series has been such a wonderful surprise.
↠ 4 stars
↠ 4 stars
July 4, 2018
I'm so behind! Loved this one and will be catching up with everyone's reviews and writing the reviews on the one's I'm missing in the next few days!
July 7, 2018
What an amazing ride!!
I loved this whole series. Even though Ryn started out as a naive child, she grew into an amazing woman who found her place. She went through so much pain and heartache but she still fought for what she knew was the right thing.
Ryn and Tyrrick together was just adorable and I loved them together.
An epic journey for sure!
I loved this whole series. Even though Ryn started out as a naive child, she grew into an amazing woman who found her place. She went through so much pain and heartache but she still fought for what she knew was the right thing.
Ryn and Tyrrick together was just adorable and I loved them together.
An epic journey for sure!
April 20, 2021
ugh, what a soup sandwich. I had to push myself to finish. Wish I'd stopped after the second book.
July 2, 2018
Sometimes the best things do come in three's
How do you review a series that you now consider to be the best YA fantasy of all time?
with gif's of course
YUP I think that accurately covers the range of emotions this one put me through!
I'm sad its over but I think it was wonderfully done in a trilogy
Book 1 was for Ryn to discover her heritage and for Tyrrik
Book 2 was for the Phaeton
and Book 3 was for Emperor Draedyn
The most significant change throughout the series is how much Ryn has grown and matured over it. If she put you off in #1 then please don't let it put you off the rest of the series. She is not the same immature character who makes impulsive decisions and can't see past the end of her own nose. She actually thinks before she leaps and is forgiving and understanding! Ok she has her moments but no one is perfect!
But thankfully it doesn't stop her hilarious inner monologue and some of the quips she comes out with had me laughing out loud (for real laughing out loud)
Tyyrik
Can't say anymore
At about the 60% mark things really start to kick off and things happen real fast! This is where I think this could have been stretched into a 4 book series it was a little too rushed, but still satisfying. The big war could have been a bit longer to make it more believable but it was still well done.
And that ending......
Bravo to two talented authors, it was perfect
How do you review a series that you now consider to be the best YA fantasy of all time?
with gif's of course
YUP I think that accurately covers the range of emotions this one put me through!
I'm sad its over but I think it was wonderfully done in a trilogy
Book 1 was for Ryn to discover her heritage and for Tyrrik
Book 2 was for the Phaeton
and Book 3 was for Emperor Draedyn
The most significant change throughout the series is how much Ryn has grown and matured over it. If she put you off in #1 then please don't let it put you off the rest of the series. She is not the same immature character who makes impulsive decisions and can't see past the end of her own nose. She actually thinks before she leaps and is forgiving and understanding! Ok she has her moments but no one is perfect!
But thankfully it doesn't stop her hilarious inner monologue and some of the quips she comes out with had me laughing out loud (for real laughing out loud)
Tyyrik
Can't say anymore
At about the 60% mark things really start to kick off and things happen real fast! This is where I think this could have been stretched into a 4 book series it was a little too rushed, but still satisfying. The big war could have been a bit longer to make it more believable but it was still well done.
And that ending......
Bravo to two talented authors, it was perfect
August 20, 2018
Tyrrik Tyrrik Tyrrik.
Oh how I love you Tyrrik.
I will happily sing songs about you Tyrrik.
This Drae, you guys! I am happily swooning every other page, y'all!
I LOVED this series!
3.5 stars.
I'm deducting points for the last couple chapters cause though I was able to make sense of them, they did not mesh AT ALL and could use some serious heavy handed editing in my humble opinion.
Now back to Tyrrik.
I finally see why odes were written.
I will write them.
Odes to this beautiful Drae! *swoons again*
July 12, 2018
A satisfying end to a great series. There wasn’t quite as much humor in this book as book two, but Ryn and Tyrrick are one of my favorite couples. There’s a lot of action in this book, and I’m sad to see that it’s the end of this series.
PS - where’s my scene where Ryn sees Tyrrick’s horde??? Can I get an outtake of that pretty please???
PS - where’s my scene where Ryn sees Tyrrick’s horde??? Can I get an outtake of that pretty please???
July 10, 2018
Overly Childish
The story had potential, but I felt that it was extremely childish and the the sarcasm way overplayed. I couldn't bare to read "playing cards" again. Honestly the plot was there, but felt flat with Rhyn actually influencing Tyrrik more than him influencing her. The maturity he carried the other books with was turned over to dumb references to sex. Too bad ....
The story had potential, but I felt that it was extremely childish and the the sarcasm way overplayed. I couldn't bare to read "playing cards" again. Honestly the plot was there, but felt flat with Rhyn actually influencing Tyrrik more than him influencing her. The maturity he carried the other books with was turned over to dumb references to sex. Too bad ....
March 17, 2019
This was a good series
I realky liked this series, it was alot of fun. The last book tied up everything and had a good ending. Both authors can write well and I'll be checking out both of the other series they've written.
I realky liked this series, it was alot of fun. The last book tied up everything and had a good ending. Both authors can write well and I'll be checking out both of the other series they've written.
March 15, 2019
Ryn really loves freaking potato’s. 😂
The best part of the series is the world building. It’s absolutely incredible, and I love the different races, the powerful and strong Drae, the Phaetyn healers and the Drumans.
I found the plot slightly more difficult so get attached to than the previous two books, but it was fulfilling, and it wasn’t boring. It was just a little “meh” at times.
It’s dark fantasy, so blood and gore and crazy fights are not uncommon, and I bloody loved that, but I just find it extremely odd that the authors are not shy about pulling intestines out of people, but decides to completely forego a sex scene. 🤷🏻♀️ Especially since the chemistry between Ryn and Tyrrick were scorching at times, AND it was obviously a big deal for Ryn since she couldn’t stop talking about it. The slow burn was crazy. I gotta be honest it cost the story a star. To me it felt like the “easy” way out. Like I was promised some smoking hot Drae sex, and now don’t get me wrong a story can completely carry itself without sex. It’s not necessary for me to have it when I decide to read a book. But when it’s flaunted in my face the entire book, and it’s doesn’t happen - nope- that won’t do it.
Another thing that bothered me was how Ryn couldn’t event say sex. I get she is 18 and Tyrrick was over 100 but you cannot call it “dancing the maypole” and “playing cards” during the entire book. I’m sorry no. It was funny the first time, because Ryn is quirky and fun, but it went on too long and she just became so juvenile in my mind, and it’s sad since I found her so compelling in book 1&2. She annoyed me. 🤷🏻♀️ If it wasn’t because I really enjoyed the writing I would have knocked the book down another star, but I don’t think that’s fair because the book was good, and I gotta give it credit for that. I was just not impressed with Ryn. And she was bloody fun and strong in the previous books.
Read: 14/03/2019
Genre/sub-genres: Dark Fantasy/magic/romance/dragonshifters
1st rating: 4 stars
Cover: 5 stars ( it’s stunning- even better in paperback)
POV: 1st person (Ryn)
Will I recommend: Yes, it’s a good series.
The best part of the series is the world building. It’s absolutely incredible, and I love the different races, the powerful and strong Drae, the Phaetyn healers and the Drumans.
I found the plot slightly more difficult so get attached to than the previous two books, but it was fulfilling, and it wasn’t boring. It was just a little “meh” at times.
It’s dark fantasy, so blood and gore and crazy fights are not uncommon, and I bloody loved that, but I just find it extremely odd that the authors are not shy about pulling intestines out of people, but decides to completely forego a sex scene. 🤷🏻♀️ Especially since the chemistry between Ryn and Tyrrick were scorching at times, AND it was obviously a big deal for Ryn since she couldn’t stop talking about it. The slow burn was crazy. I gotta be honest it cost the story a star. To me it felt like the “easy” way out. Like I was promised some smoking hot Drae sex, and now don’t get me wrong a story can completely carry itself without sex. It’s not necessary for me to have it when I decide to read a book. But when it’s flaunted in my face the entire book, and it’s doesn’t happen - nope- that won’t do it.
Another thing that bothered me was how Ryn couldn’t event say sex. I get she is 18 and Tyrrick was over 100 but you cannot call it “dancing the maypole” and “playing cards” during the entire book. I’m sorry no. It was funny the first time, because Ryn is quirky and fun, but it went on too long and she just became so juvenile in my mind, and it’s sad since I found her so compelling in book 1&2. She annoyed me. 🤷🏻♀️ If it wasn’t because I really enjoyed the writing I would have knocked the book down another star, but I don’t think that’s fair because the book was good, and I gotta give it credit for that. I was just not impressed with Ryn. And she was bloody fun and strong in the previous books.
Read: 14/03/2019
Genre/sub-genres: Dark Fantasy/magic/romance/dragonshifters
1st rating: 4 stars
Cover: 5 stars ( it’s stunning- even better in paperback)
POV: 1st person (Ryn)
Will I recommend: Yes, it’s a good series.
September 24, 2020
3.75 - I really enjoyed Black Crown and overall the entirety of The Darkest Drae series. It was great to see the growth of Ryn and Tyrrik is simply a gem. Lol. I wish the ending had been not as rushed, the motivation, backstory of Draedyn less convoluted and fleshed out and just more of the other groups, side characters and just more. It was a fun read otherwise and I will definitely read more of both authors.
A Few Favorite Lines/Quotes...
****
Tyrrik chuckled, a low sound that rumbled in his chest and bounced around in my head before settling in the deep cavity underneath the left side of my ribs, which I strongly suspected was my heart. Or possibly a terminal disease.
****
Lani smiled. “I drank a whole jug of honey syrup one time—”
Huh. I wondered if that was a Phaetyn thing.
"Good relationships take effort to keep them healthy, and sex is a natural part of a mate-bond.”
****
Heat crept into my cheeks. “I knew that.” Kind of.
She studied me and nodded. “Good. Relationships take effort and time, and if you value the relationship, you’ll give him both. You’ll both change over time. That’s just life, so make sure you’re investing in your relationship so that distance doesn’t grow between you. Because make no mistake, though you are mates and cannot bear to be physically apart, you can still grow distant in other ways.”
****
...pee blackberries.
****
"...If anyone asks, we knew it the entire time."
****
'...You defeated the one-eyed squirrel as I slept? I quipped.
Tyrrik’s joy at my humor radiated through our bond. No, he said solemnly. He still runs rampant, leading a life of debauchery. Worse, he’s inspiring others to join his band of nefarious villainy.'
A Few Favorite Lines/Quotes...
****
Tyrrik chuckled, a low sound that rumbled in his chest and bounced around in my head before settling in the deep cavity underneath the left side of my ribs, which I strongly suspected was my heart. Or possibly a terminal disease.
****
Lani smiled. “I drank a whole jug of honey syrup one time—”
Huh. I wondered if that was a Phaetyn thing.
"Good relationships take effort to keep them healthy, and sex is a natural part of a mate-bond.”
****
Heat crept into my cheeks. “I knew that.” Kind of.
She studied me and nodded. “Good. Relationships take effort and time, and if you value the relationship, you’ll give him both. You’ll both change over time. That’s just life, so make sure you’re investing in your relationship so that distance doesn’t grow between you. Because make no mistake, though you are mates and cannot bear to be physically apart, you can still grow distant in other ways.”
****
...pee blackberries.
****
"...If anyone asks, we knew it the entire time."
****
'...You defeated the one-eyed squirrel as I slept? I quipped.
Tyrrik’s joy at my humor radiated through our bond. No, he said solemnly. He still runs rampant, leading a life of debauchery. Worse, he’s inspiring others to join his band of nefarious villainy.'
June 13, 2020
Ummm it's ok could have been better
I'm really disappointed with this series. The first book was solid, evolving multifaceted characters, intriguing plot but then it went flat. Ryan wound up being a one dimensional charicture. She never matured and grew into her self. The authors focused on her bond with tyrrik. They didn't put the effort into expanding her other relationships and how they could have changed her and given her more depth. Tyrrik should have been a really interesting charicture but he played a back seat to the story except for where he fit in as Ryns mate. Truly disappointing. These books were short and the authors had a lot bnb of great things to work with. Really good ideas for charictures that could have been epic if properly developed. They just weren't able to achieve their potential.
I'm really disappointed with this series. The first book was solid, evolving multifaceted characters, intriguing plot but then it went flat. Ryan wound up being a one dimensional charicture. She never matured and grew into her self. The authors focused on her bond with tyrrik. They didn't put the effort into expanding her other relationships and how they could have changed her and given her more depth. Tyrrik should have been a really interesting charicture but he played a back seat to the story except for where he fit in as Ryns mate. Truly disappointing. These books were short and the authors had a lot bnb of great things to work with. Really good ideas for charictures that could have been epic if properly developed. They just weren't able to achieve their potential.
July 12, 2018
The first 2 books were better
July 3, 2018
Un 3'75 en realidad.
August 26, 2018
To start.... I really love Kelly St. Clair books. This whole series I was sitting on the edge of my seat! It was nail biting and heart racing and made me laugh out loud. I really do love this series and with this being the third and final book in the trilogy (unless we have a surprise coming) I was riveted throughout the whole book. I love Ryn & Tyr together. I am glad Ryn kept her quick wit and continue to grow throughout the book. Soooo... why 3 stars???? I was hooked on this book up until the very end.... which felt completely unfinished.
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!! ---- read the book before the spoilers because the book is good and my review is based on purely my opinions....
Throughout their relationship we hear about the hoards the male drae save for their mates. I don't know about you but I was chomping at the bit to read about it when Ryn finally gets to set heir hoard!! 😬😬😬 Except it doesn't happen. All the hold up and then they sort of mention it in passing and then there is a really touching moment when they return to Zone Seven and then we move on to the "Epilogue". I am not sure how I feel about it. Tyr has a surprise for her.... oh my gosh I could have swore to you he was going to reveal the hoard or a giant sapphire or something.... but lo and behold that is not the surprise we get.... the surprise (which is sort of from left field but Ryn loves it so much it softened my disappointment slightly --- very slightly) is a potato growing contest. That's how we end the book Ladies and Gents. A potato growing contest. No hoard revealed. No drae baby plans. Nada. We were gifted potatoes. I really felt like this series was so epic and deserved an epic and even more epically happy ending, but I was given a load of potatoes. It totally ruined all my glorious thoughts for the ending.
You know how we all try and figure out what kind of ending a book will have. Sometimes we guess and are right and sometimes we don't see them coming and we are happy. Other times we don’t see them coming and are unhappy, but this time.... I was left confused and kind of unsatisfied with the ending. Le sigh. It could be just me, but I wanted more. I hope it was more than that for you if you read the book.
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!! ---- read the book before the spoilers because the book is good and my review is based on purely my opinions....
Throughout their relationship we hear about the hoards the male drae save for their mates. I don't know about you but I was chomping at the bit to read about it when Ryn finally gets to set heir hoard!! 😬😬😬 Except it doesn't happen. All the hold up and then they sort of mention it in passing and then there is a really touching moment when they return to Zone Seven and then we move on to the "Epilogue". I am not sure how I feel about it. Tyr has a surprise for her.... oh my gosh I could have swore to you he was going to reveal the hoard or a giant sapphire or something.... but lo and behold that is not the surprise we get.... the surprise (which is sort of from left field but Ryn loves it so much it softened my disappointment slightly --- very slightly) is a potato growing contest. That's how we end the book Ladies and Gents. A potato growing contest. No hoard revealed. No drae baby plans. Nada. We were gifted potatoes. I really felt like this series was so epic and deserved an epic and even more epically happy ending, but I was given a load of potatoes. It totally ruined all my glorious thoughts for the ending.
You know how we all try and figure out what kind of ending a book will have. Sometimes we guess and are right and sometimes we don't see them coming and we are happy. Other times we don’t see them coming and are unhappy, but this time.... I was left confused and kind of unsatisfied with the ending. Le sigh. It could be just me, but I wanted more. I hope it was more than that for you if you read the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2018
Entertaining but flawed
The main characters are likable, except for most of the first book. However, their behavior and characteristics don't evolve during the books much. Her powers do during the first 2 books. Primarily maddening to me, were the mistakes the 2 main characters kept repeating : walking into potential enemy camp with no plan whatsoever and no reconnoitering or even basic observation of the new area prior to showing up. Then, they're shocked with the results. This is something the supposedly successfully scary lead drae of over 100 years should know how to do. You, the reader, can understand the initial naivete of the 18 year old girl. But, she doesn't learn from her mistakes. Secondly, the obvious YA aspect is a bit ridiculous: no cussing (holy pancakes!) or hints of graphic sex beyond kissing but graphic violence was fine (e.g. intestines spilling on 2 or 3 enemies) ?!?
The main characters are likable, except for most of the first book. However, their behavior and characteristics don't evolve during the books much. Her powers do during the first 2 books. Primarily maddening to me, were the mistakes the 2 main characters kept repeating : walking into potential enemy camp with no plan whatsoever and no reconnoitering or even basic observation of the new area prior to showing up. Then, they're shocked with the results. This is something the supposedly successfully scary lead drae of over 100 years should know how to do. You, the reader, can understand the initial naivete of the 18 year old girl. But, she doesn't learn from her mistakes. Secondly, the obvious YA aspect is a bit ridiculous: no cussing (holy pancakes!) or hints of graphic sex beyond kissing but graphic violence was fine (e.g. intestines spilling on 2 or 3 enemies) ?!?
August 30, 2018
In this conclusion to the series, Ryn gathers up her friends and they begin to wage war against her father, the Emperor, Draedyn. Her growing bond with Tyrrik is put to the ultimate test when her father captures her and invades her mind. Faced with losing everyone she loves, Ryn must learn to use the magic within her to defeat her father.
3.5 stars are more accurate. I liked how Ryn and Tyrrik strengthened their relationship (mentally and physically) - I liked them as a couple so it was nice to see. But......the battle with her father was "meh", and the ending had some very confusing components. The epilogue attempted to explain how it all came to be, but I was still left with a puzzled look on my face.
3.5 stars are more accurate. I liked how Ryn and Tyrrik strengthened their relationship (mentally and physically) - I liked them as a couple so it was nice to see. But......the battle with her father was "meh", and the ending had some very confusing components. The epilogue attempted to explain how it all came to be, but I was still left with a puzzled look on my face.
October 19, 2018
Where are the romantic scenes?
Great series but boy wasIi dissapointed that all bed scenes (including the first time we all have been waiting for) are skipped. And that I one can read how the lay in each other arms. Not what I have been waiting for, after reading page after page.
Book 1 of a series should come with a warning label. ‘How amazing this book is. You never going to read how the main couple will be romantic together.’ ?! #dissapointed
But of course if you are between 14-18. Or mayor fan of the author or romanceless urban fantasy this is the book for you. Characters, writing, story and world building are flawless!
Great series but boy wasIi dissapointed that all bed scenes (including the first time we all have been waiting for) are skipped. And that I one can read how the lay in each other arms. Not what I have been waiting for, after reading page after page.
Book 1 of a series should come with a warning label. ‘How amazing this book is. You never going to read how the main couple will be romantic together.’ ?! #dissapointed
But of course if you are between 14-18. Or mayor fan of the author or romanceless urban fantasy this is the book for you. Characters, writing, story and world building are flawless!
did-not-finish
November 12, 2018So, here's the thing: I really liked the first one. Really, really liked it. I thought it was dark and gritty and I loved, loved, loved Tyrrik. The second one was also pretty good, though I think I was still basking in the euphoria of the first one a bit (plus I still loved, loved, loved Tyrrik). This one, well, I put it down almost immediately after starting and did not want to pick it back up. I think the initial high of the series has worn off for me, and I'm left with really feeling the age difference between Ryn and Tyrrik. I tried to put that behind me but she reads so immature that it's hard to get past. I'm letting this one go for now....
December 27, 2018
Nice wrap up
I struggled a bit with this book. To me it seemed slower than the others and longer than it needed to be. I did like seeing Ryn and Tyrrik become mates and love each other. The Emperor was in this one also, which gave us more insight into his reign and the history of the realm. I really like the side characters, especially Lani and Kamini, two strong women. The whole world of the Drae and Phaetyns was pretty cool and I enjoyed the story overall.
I struggled a bit with this book. To me it seemed slower than the others and longer than it needed to be. I did like seeing Ryn and Tyrrik become mates and love each other. The Emperor was in this one also, which gave us more insight into his reign and the history of the realm. I really like the side characters, especially Lani and Kamini, two strong women. The whole world of the Drae and Phaetyns was pretty cool and I enjoyed the story overall.
Read
April 11, 2020DNF
I guess this book was entirely too focused on the war and battle. I lost interest pretty quick and didn't manage to finish it. This isn't a bad book but just couldn't hold my attention long enough. Especially since I was extremely busy while reading this series. It was easier to not finish it amidst the busy schedule than to read through the end.
I guess this book was entirely too focused on the war and battle. I lost interest pretty quick and didn't manage to finish it. This isn't a bad book but just couldn't hold my attention long enough. Especially since I was extremely busy while reading this series. It was easier to not finish it amidst the busy schedule than to read through the end.
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