Dark World

Dark World: The Dragon Twins #1

by Michelle Madow

Get ready to be transported to a world of magic and adventure, where danger lurks around every corner and love is more powerful than any spell.

According to legend, twin sisters Gemma and Mira are descended from witches. But they’ve never been able to use magic.

On their seventeenth birthday, everything changes. They’re gifted with power over the elements, and right after receiving their magic, they’re tracked down and attacked by an ancient monster. They would have died, if not for Mira’s boyfriend Ethan showing up to save the day.

It turns out that Ethan has magic, too. He’s a dragon shifter from a dark realm, and he’s sworn to protect the twins from whoever’s hunting them down.

With monsters relentlessly chasing them, the three of them go on the run, pausing only to sleep—and to allow Ethan to teach them how to master their magic. But since they’re stuck together, Gemma has to try harder than ever to keep her deepest secret from her twin—she’s been in love with Mira’s boyfriend for months. Sometimes, she swears Ethan feels the same.

But Gemma’s feelings for Ethan should be the last thing on her mind, because whoever’s hunting them has dark magic so impossibly strong that even the most powerful supernaturals are running scared. With nowhere left to hide and time running out, the twins race to discover the truth behind their heritage so they can fight back—even if that means committing the ultimate act of of each other.

Will their bond as twins be enough to overcome the obstacles that stand in their way? Or will their own desires tear them apart forever?

The Dragon Twins is a must-read for fans of young adult fantasy who crave action, suspense, forbidden romance, and twists you'll never see coming.


PRAISE FOR THE DRAGON

“Michelle Madow hit another home run with The Dragon Twins! It goes from 0 to 60 MPH in a matter of a few pages.”
-Robert Leverton, Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“Gemma and Mira are soon to be witches that start out the book with a bang, and the hits just keep coming rapid fire!”
-Kindle Customer, Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“This is one of the best books I've ever read. All of the books in Dark World are just outstanding.”
-Rifraf650, Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“Michelle Madow is brilliant with twists and turns and keeping the suspense!”
-Michelle Titherington VanDaley, Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

“The Dragon Twins is fast paced, action packed, and an exciting start to the series. The ending was such a shock!”
-Kayla Williams, Amazon Reviewer ★★★★★

What are you waiting for? Join the twins on their journey and experience the magic and adventure for yourself!

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Paranormal, Witches, Young Adult, Supernatural, Romance

378 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 2023

About the author

Michelle Madow is a USA Today bestselling author of fantasy romance novels filled with forbidden love, elemental magic, and epic twists that readers never see coming. With over three million books sold and translations in multiple languages, her addictive stories have captured hearts around the world.

She wrote her first novel in college and never looked back. Now, with 50 books published (and counting), she spends her time dreaming up magical realms and devastating romances that keep readers hooked from page one.

Originally from Maryland, she spent nearly two decades in Florida before a brief chapter in NYC—and now she’s back in the Sunshine State, where golden days fuel her creativity and moonlight sparks her imagination.

When she’s not writing, she’s likely getting lost in the magical world of reading, plotting her next big twist, or reminiscing about her travels to all seven continents.

Reviews

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great start to this series. If you read The Faerie Games then you have meet the Gemini Twins that are in this book. The book is all in Gemma's point of view. I have a feeling where the story will go for the rest of the series but it will be fun to see how everyone gets there. I liked that we start in Australia but unfortunately we don't stay there long. We do meet a lot of new people and journey to interesting places. If you have enjoyed any of the Dark World books you will like this one. If you have not read any other books then this is a good time to jump in and start this series. I look forward to more books in this series.


*I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion*

[Myria · Rating 5 out of 5]

As if life isn't complicated enough being a teenager but for twins Gemma and Mira things are a little more complicated you see there is a family prophecy that when they reach of age they'll come into magic not just any magic but Dragon magic as they're part of the Gemini witch coven. However the family line of magic has dwindled to next to nothing so when it comes to these teenagers believing that magic is even possible one wants to believe and the other thinks it's an old wives tale and wants to forget all about it and get on with being a teenager. However when the time comes the twins magic does ascend and with it comes a journey fraught with danger, excitement and heartache as the battle of good and bad continues to reign on with the twins being in the centre of it all.

[Arun Singla · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s Good-ish

I enjoyed reading this book. It was fast-paced, an exciting adventure. I feel like some parts could have been written stronger or more adult-like(if that makes any sense). There were some moments where the characters could have acted more like grown-ups, but didn’t. I understand they are teenagers, but they act almost childish at times. Additionally, the characters don’t develop much throughout the book, and have quite unrealistic dialogue. But I hope they will improve, as they have from the previous books. Speaking of, one more little tidbit is on the cliffhanger from the previous book. The author had promised a few chapters from Torrence, Selena’s best friend. After that crazy ending, those chapters were what I was most looking forward to in this book. But there weren’t any. That disappointed me greatly . But if you can excuse some of the inconsistencies, this is the book for you.
If you disagree with this review just know it may be a bit biased as I am a huge fan of this author.

[thebooksuccubus · Rating 5 out of 5]

The dragon continues on in the world of fighting demons. The girls, Gemma and Mira, are throw into a world one never believed in and the other always wished for. People are coming after them and it seems they will stop at nothing to get them. Some how it seems these demons and witches have powers they shouldn't. Gemma is giving it all she's got in this new world to keep the ones she loves safe but she also fighting her own inner battles with loving Ethan who is her sister's boyfriend. Talk about a rock and a hard place. Its seems that Mira has always belonged but now that magic is real roles and reversed with Gemma. A love triangle like any other. And is Gemma the only one with secrets or is Ethan keeping something from them as well. Waiting for the next one since I am left with so many questions.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author's writing is always so enjoyable. She really knows how to weave a colorful, imaginative story. This book is a great start to the Dragon Twins series, with just the right amount of references to other characters/events in the Dark World series. Great character development too. Can't wait for the next book!

[Tina Merritt · Rating 5 out of 5]

These new adventure in the well made universe gives you enough touches from the other stories that you know they are connected but if you didn’t read the others you will still be able to start here as well. I am cheering for things, gasping at others and I am left wanting book 2 already!!

[Jacinta - Aussie Book Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to start by sayin I have loved every single series in the Dark World. This book is the latest instalment in this world. It is a complete standalone you do not have to have read the other series in this world to enjoy this story, I however would recommend it because it makes it makes this story just that little bit more.
This story grabs you from the very first page and does not let go until the very end..... it does end leaving it open for the next book. I do have to say I related to one character more than others and can not wait to see how these relationships grow in this story.

[Michelle N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon Twins is the newest installment in Michelle Madow's Dark World. Every book, in every season gets better and better!

You are instantly sucked into the story. The characters have amazing chemistry and they each have their own strengths and weaknesses that are pivotal for the challenges they face. I am very much Team * & E and I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.

Grab Dragon Twins, sit back and enjoy the ride!

[Leeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this in one day. So easy to read I was sucked in by chapter 2. It’s unique and things happened I wasn’t expecting. I like Gemma, the main character. On to book 2!

[Mary T · Rating 5 out of 5]

good
Gemma and Mira twin sisters receive their dragon magic on their seventeenth birthday. Everything abruptly changes for them. They are witches but have little witch magic. It is necessary that they learn both witch and elemental magic. Much happens while they learn.
I received this book as an ARC.

[La-Shawn Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Beginning to This Series

It was great reading about Gemma again. We get to know more about her, her twin Mira, and Mira's boyfriend Ethan. I liked seeing how they all fit into the Dark World.

If you have read the other book series in the Dark World then you'll be acquainted with the many characters that pop up. If not, don't worry, you'll still be able to enjoy this book.

I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and seeing if my hunch about which twin does what comes true. I'm pretty sure I can guess why one twin chooses the path she does. But we shall see in the books to come. 😏

If you're new to this world and looking for something to read while waiting on the next book might I suggest you start with Vampire Wish. The 3 series before this one are just as interesting.

Happy reading!

[Shekira Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read the earlier series Faerie Games and fell in love with the Torrence and Reese story. I thought logically their story should be the next series then I come to find out it’s on these boring twins who barely featured in those books and if I want an update on Torrence I have to wait until book 2. So I said ok I’ll try to read it. I enjoyed the other series can’t be that bad right? I read the entire last series in 2 days and it’s week 3 and I’m still stuck on this first book. Gemma and her sister are extremely annoying and the pace of the book is so slow. I’m bored. I can see that there is something there worth finding out but author spends too much time over-explaining Gemma’s mental thoughts. Sigh…

[Drue Difrancesco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just WOW

Everytime I read a new book, I think there's no way to top this but Everytime a new book is released, I'm blown away. Everytime a new series comes out I think this ones my fave but the next comes out and I'm like holy crap. Dragon Twins is thrilling and you never know what's coming. I love Gemma, she's strong and fierce. Can't wait for the next one.

[Kendall {Book Crazy} · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read ARCs of both prequel series' to this one and I really enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to this book releasing when I heard about it! I then received an ARC of this book and I started reading it as soon as I had finished another ARC! After reading this book, I can say that I enjoyed it! The plot developed at the perfect pace and it kept me intrigued and wanting to read on and see what was going to happen next! It only took me a few sittings to read as well!I also loved that there was some action and suspense in the plot because it added to it and made me enjoy it more! There was a bit of romance in the plot as well, but I can see more happening as this series progresses! It was set up nice in this book though and I can see the romance having a big impact on the plot! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Gemma and Mira were both the main female characters, and they were twins in this book! Gemma and Mira also made a small appearance in one of the prequel series, so I couldn't wait to know more about them! Both girls were different and had different personalities! Gemma was very quiet and liked reading and kept to herself! Mira was the opposite and she was quite out there and was more outspoken! I liked both girls and I can't wait to see them progress! Ethan was the love interest of both twins! I felt like Ethan was a very intriguing character in this book and I wanted to know more about him! Ethan was also a dragon, which I thought was very cool! I felt like Ethan was very protective of both Gemma and Mira and it was easy to see that he had hidden feelings for Gemma! I'm sure we'll find out why they're hidden feelings in future books! Well, I hope we do lol! This book was mainly written from Gemma's point of view, which did surprise me a little! I was expecting it to be written from Mira's point as well, but it wasn't at all! One chapter was written from Harper's point of view, but this made sense because of what had happened and it set the plot up for future books! I also see Mira's point of view being included as the plot progresses and the twins separate! I was still able to connect with Mira and it did make sense for this book to only be written through Gemma's eyes because it started her journey! The twins also did a lot together! I now can't wait to read the next book in this series! The ending of this book was left at the perfect ending to lead into the next book and it gives massive hints as to what's going to happen as the series progresses! I'm not sure when the next book is going to release, but I'll definitely be anticipating its release and I can't wait to see what's going to happen next! The cover for this book is also absolutely perfect for it! I can see how well it suits the feel of the book now that I've read it and the cover model is the perfect Gemma! Big thank you to Michelle for an ARC of The Dragon Twins!

[Adena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another series begins in the Dark World. I'm really loving this universe, and Dragon Twins does not disappoint. As with the other Dark World books, you don't need to read any of the previous ones to enjoy this novel, but you'll have a bit of background and you'll recognize some familiar faces if you have. The main characters made a brief appearance in Selena's story (The Faerie Games series) so it's nice to dive into their perspective and see what they're up to.

This story is told mainly by Gemma, on of the famous Dragon Twins. As with any good epic fantasy, the tale begins just before Gemma and her twin sister Mira discover that they have an ancient and powerful magic, one that they thought was only a silly family tradition started by some long forgotten ancestor. Suddenly, the twins realize that the myth is true, and just when they should be rejoicing in their newfound magic they are viciously attacked. Now they're on the run through the vampire kingdoms, trying to figure out how to use their magic, but also trying to unravel the mystery of who is after them and why.

And of course, there's a boy. A boy claimed by one sister, but secretly loved by the other, with fate sticking her messy hands in the middle to cause chaos, betrayal, love, and destiny.

I'd tell you more, but now I have to go back and re-read the end of Selena's story because I feel like I've forgotten something important about it.... or maybe it's Gemma that feels that way...

I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.

[Maddy Wigglesworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dragon Twins is the fourth series in the Dark World Saga by Michelle Madow. This one starts with two sisters, Gemma and Mira. They are witches and dragons. On their 16th birthday, they went through a ceremony called the Ascension where they are given powers over the natural elements. Gemma is bestowed with the powers of Fire and Earth while Mira is given powers over Water and Air. After this, a griffin is seen and attacks them. Out of the blue, a boy who met both girls earlier on in the day comes and tells them that they are a part of a prophecy and they need to learn to use their powers to protect themselves. His name is Ethan and he will bring the twins to one of the other realms in order for them to develop their powers.

Michelle Madow is a rare author who has published many supernatural novels for young adults. This saga started out with vampires and werewolves but now includes faeries, witches, and dragons. I only read the vampire series fully but I am very interested to see what is going to happen next. In the first novel, there are dark versions of the Holy Grail, the Holy Sword, the Holy Wand, and one other object that has yet to be known. This is a new element that I am very excited to see how it plays out. All in all, it is a really interesting start to a new series and I am excited to see what happens next.

[Topsues · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gemma and Mira are twins who are chalk and cheese in character but would always have each other’s backs. Until Ethan, and the night of their 17th birthday when an old tale of magic becomes reality. Michelle Madow uses her great creative skills to take the readers on an adventure of Magic, Prophecy’s, friendship, death, grief, mystery and a seer who they come to depend on, plus many more emotions that will keep you absorbing this storyline until the very last page. We are also reunited with old characters from all her Dark World Series which personally I thought the way they was integrated into this storyline was excellent.. I loved these twins, as each have their own personalities and challenges. One however quickly became my favourite but that’s something you will have to see if you develop one. Michelle Madow can always evoke such realism in any emotion throughout her books keeping me eager for her plots that are always written so fluently and with precision you always know where you are and what has been before to bring conclusions and questions to the forefront. She can make me laugh, long or grieve as if the character had my own heart. I didn’t want give any spoilers for this first book The Dragon Twins 👯 However as every moment the plot thickened I can’t see how anyone could resist this new series by an exceptional writer

[Sabrina Wannet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover:
I absolutly love this cover, the bookcase behind the girl makes my heart beat faster. The fire in her hand is a cool effect in showing the girls element. Overal it looks amazing and even if I had not known her other books I would have picked this one up. Not just because it looks amazing but also the colouring is making you curious about the story.

storyline:
This book is about two twinsisters (Mira and Gemma), and a boy Ethan. The twinsisters are from an old witch lineage with dragon magic (elemental) and there is a profecy (off course). Ethan is a boy but not just a normal one, he is a supernatural. On the evening they receive their powers everything goes down hill. They find out who Ethan is and that he is their protector. To control their powers they have to learn but how? People are attacking them and seem to be able to find them constantly.
This book is packed with action, love, anger and feeling of guild. Will they be able to harnass their powers to help en keep safe the people thet care about? Start reading it, because I am not going to say more :D

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing series starter

The Dragon Twins title becomes clear as you read. Witches. Magic. Dragons. Vampires and Goddesses. Identical twin 16-year old girls, one outgoing and an adrenaline seeking Mira and the other quiet, bookish and reserve Gemma, both descendants from dragon blood magic. One realistic and the other whimsical. One didn't believe in magic the other did. Different as night and day, the girls only difference is their eye color. However, Mira goes one step further with her identity by changing her hair color and length. As the girls age they encounter one special boy Ethan. Since their meeting we traverse on an adventure. Some references to The Angel Trial series from the same author. Fantastic magical world complete with teenage emotions and angst. Highly recommend read. Not required to read the prior book series The Angel Trials. This is good as this series is more a spinoff. The end foretells a prediction that the next book increases the intrigue. Another great series start. Love it!

[Lita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I've waited to read this book until the series was complete. The final book just came out today, so armed with the whole set, I started reading. The Dragon twins was a true adventure with a little love triangle thrown in for good measure. Twin witches who come into their powers when they're 17, are both in love with the same guy. His name is Ethan and he has magical powers. His "job" is to protect them. Only one of the twins is aware they both love Ethan and it isn't the one who has his affections. Meanwhile, they've gained some serious elemental magic powers as part of a prophecy - dragon powers. And the really bad guys, led by Lillith are after them. The bad guys have discovered a way to trace the twins whenever they use their dragon powers. With twists and turns that are unexpected but enjoyed by this reader very much, Michelle Madow has weaved a wonderful tale with equally wonderful characters. I look forward to the rest of the series.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book and volunteered to review it.

While this is the 4th series set in this universe, this is the first time that I’m really seeing how previous characters and plots link back to this story.
Usually I’m not one for love triangles and this feels like it’s strongly foreshadowing one - but it’s subtle enough that I like the angst.

I’m already dreading (in a good way I promise) the next book because I can see a rift will appear between the twin girls which will lead to the two Queens happening.

Overall great storytelling and introduction to exciting new characters. Somewhat predictable but I’m sure the author will throw in a plot twist somewhere when I’m not expecting it (please be kind about it cause I’m already emotionally invested in these twins livelihoods)

[Jassicca · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dragon Twins series is season four of The Dark World universe, and some of the mysteries in this book, such as what happens to Ethan's father or about Selena and the teams' visit, have been revealed in season three, The Faerie Games Series.

Most chapters in this book are from Gemma's point of view, and nothing from Mira, the other twin, and Harper only have one chapter. As of now, I like Gemma. She is confident and more assertive than Mira, who's timid, childish and nasty? As for Ethan, he is just as mysterious.

So far, even though I enjoyed reading the story, I find this book isn't up to the previous series' standard. I'm also disappointed because this book is short, and we have yet to hear about Torrence and Reed. I hope when they venture out to Ember realm, we'll get to read about them!

[Tally Vivarais · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why oh why am I obsessed with the Dark world Series like this? I think it's just Michelle Madow. I think I'm in love with her. It's the only reason I can think to keep falling back into these books like they are nothing but pure magic.

ETHAN AND GEMMA ARE PURE TWIN FLAMES AND I'LL HEAR NOTHING ELSE OF IT.

||For Future Tally:||
This book begins with them doing the spell to gain their magic. In it they also meet Harper who "dies" in the end. Mira and Gemma are twin witches with dragon elemental magic. Mira is dating Ethan but when Harper, Mira and Gemma climb the mountain to find Hekate's Library, Gemma sees an alternative past where it is her and Ethan that fell in love but she's the only one that knows about it so she's the only one that mourns it. The book ends with them escaping Levinia's Castle after Harper "dies" and they have to leave her behind.

[Barbara Marie Warner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dragon Twins: Dark World: The Dragon Twins  (Book 1)

The Dragon Twins: Dark World: The Dragon Twins  (Book 1) OMG 😳  What another spectacular book by Michelle Madow, an amazing fast paced book, good interaction between characters. Especially the twins. This will be interested in seeing where it goes. This book 📖 is attention grabbing from page one. There were several twist, I never saw coming, which is why you won't be able to put it down. Definitely recommend this book 📕 / series  📚 
OMG 😳  What another spectacular book by Michelle Madow, an amazing fast paced book, good interaction between characters. Especially the twins. This will be interested in seeing where it goes. This book 📖 is attention grabbing from page one. There were several twist, I never saw coming, which is why you won't be able to put it down. Definitely recommend this book 📕 / series  📚 

[Alicia Gee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this goes by too quickly!!!

Another smashing series in the Dark World, and it took my breath away from the very beginning! This series is following the twins, Gemma and Mira, that you briefly met at the end of series two. For two identical twin witches, they couldn't be mire different. And that is ALL I will say on the matter. The book lives up to MS. Madow's previously fantastic books, and it is going to kill me to wait a few.months for the next installment. Readers, do yourself a huge favor and get ALL the Dark World books, read them in order, and thoroughly enjoy being immersed in the Dark World!!! Best. Decision. Ever.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book there is so much action and I’m OBSESSED honestly love it although I am extremely disappointed that Torrence didn’t actually make an appearance in this book her named was mentioned here and there but she wasn’t actually there in on the action so was very upset about that but over all I love this and I have read the faerie plague over and over and I think I connected the dots on the 5 element but honestly CANNOT wait I’ve literally been counting down the days for the second book to arrive and I have 37 days left been going out of my mind love this book SOOO much and I’m crossing my fingers praying that Torrence will make an appearance in the second one amazing job Michelle

[Kathy Brenzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gemma and Mira had been told that they would obtain magic (dragon magic) when they turned seventeen, but they didn't entirely believe it. It did happen though, but it was like all hell broke loose when their magic arrive. Mira's new boyfriend turns out to be more than he had let on and he was there to protect them. It couldn't be done there, so they were taken to one of the safe realms - or so it was supposed to be. They had to find out how the impossible was happening, and at the same time, learn to control their new magic.

[Renee Marski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing read!!

Gemma and Mira are twins. They share everything. At 17, they come into their magic and their lives turn upside down. Mira's boyfriend is a dragon and their protector. And both have feelings for him. As you can imagine, this causes many issues between the two.

I love the girls. Mira is outgoing and free loving. Gemma is a book nerd after my own heart. Ethan is your typical brooding hero. There is definitely a connection between him and Gemma even though Mira is his girlfriend. This causes tension. Tension is good. Definitely a good and enjoyable read!

[Jennifer Libby · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we met the girls earlier, we just had an inkling that they were special. We just didn’t know how special. In this book, we get to explore a different world that’s hidden from everyday life. Gemma has always believed that there was more to life. Mira on the other hand is more live in the moment. . All that changes when they turn seventeen. There’s a lot more to this than anyone expected and now they have to learn as fast as they can. Many things converge all at once and it’s up to the girls to save the day.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I just want to say thank you to Michelle Madow for giving me an ARC of this book to read in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given, offered, or taken to alter the opinion.

The Dragon Twins is the first book in a standalone series, while also being another spinoff of Michelle's Dark World series. While I do recommend reading the Dark World books in order, I love how you could start with this book and you wouldn’t be lost or confused at all. The Dragon Twins is told from Gemma’s point of view. This book was fast paced, action packed, and an exciting start to the series. The ending was such a shock! I can’t wait to read the next one!