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The Darkest Flame #2
Nights of Steel and Shadow
Nights of Steel and Shadow is the spellbinding sequel to Nights of Iron and Ink. Enter the world of the fae, where danger and destiny collide.
A mission.
Vera is determined to make amends, but breaking into the Faylands is difficult, if not impossible, and all her attempts to bring Ronan to her have failed. When she learns he's gone missing, she undertakes a risky mission to find him, and unknowingly falls right into Boone's trap. He's been hunting her since Mayhem, and he's determined to put her and her beast down for good.
A heartbreak.
Vera is put on trial and sentenced to death for her crimes, but in a twist of fate, it's Ronan who saves her. He whisks her away to the Faylands where she learns the unsettling news that King Desmond is searching for her and comes face to face with the gut-wrenching truth behind Ronan's disappearance, dissolving any hope of a future between them.
A ruse.
Ronan has two months to recover the godstone and Vera isn't letting him go alone. As they search for a secret entrance into the Nighter's hideaway, they discover the king isn't the only one hunting Vera. They must take on new identities to evade capture, but the lines between reality and fantasy quickly blur. Despite past wrongs, and the circumstances keeping them apart, their connection is undeniable.
A war.
Old passions ignite, but soon lies and secrecy threaten the mending trust between them just when they need it most. Enemies are at their door and war is coming. They must put their trust in one another or face an impossible choice—give up their lives and everything they hold dear, or each other.
The only problem is, the last time they tried, it nearly killed them.
A mission.
Vera is determined to make amends, but breaking into the Faylands is difficult, if not impossible, and all her attempts to bring Ronan to her have failed. When she learns he's gone missing, she undertakes a risky mission to find him, and unknowingly falls right into Boone's trap. He's been hunting her since Mayhem, and he's determined to put her and her beast down for good.
A heartbreak.
Vera is put on trial and sentenced to death for her crimes, but in a twist of fate, it's Ronan who saves her. He whisks her away to the Faylands where she learns the unsettling news that King Desmond is searching for her and comes face to face with the gut-wrenching truth behind Ronan's disappearance, dissolving any hope of a future between them.
A ruse.
Ronan has two months to recover the godstone and Vera isn't letting him go alone. As they search for a secret entrance into the Nighter's hideaway, they discover the king isn't the only one hunting Vera. They must take on new identities to evade capture, but the lines between reality and fantasy quickly blur. Despite past wrongs, and the circumstances keeping them apart, their connection is undeniable.
A war.
Old passions ignite, but soon lies and secrecy threaten the mending trust between them just when they need it most. Enemies are at their door and war is coming. They must put their trust in one another or face an impossible choice—give up their lives and everything they hold dear, or each other.
The only problem is, the last time they tried, it nearly killed them.
Unknown Binding
Published February 16, 2024
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4146 people want to read
About the author
Shannen Durey
12 books122 followersShannen Durey is the author of the fantasy romance novel Nights of Iron and Ink, the first book in the epic fantasy series. Shannen lives in Texas with her adorable dogs. When she is not writing, she is reading or spending time in nature waiting for that next great book idea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 2, 2025
I truly cannot understand how so many people have given this more than 2 stars. There is a point where the stupidity of the main character is really annoying. Every single conflict that appears is so predictable because the only one who does not realize the consequences of her actions is her BECAUSE SHE SIMPLY SEEMS UNABLE TO THINK MORE THAN A STEP FORWARD. She just seemed incredibly dumb but still thought she was smart… it made her unbearable.
I could not make it farther than the 18% of the book. I finished the first one barely but i honestly cannot understand what is so good about it that so many people are speaking about it. It just seems like a little scene (where he supposedly grovels bringing her flowers that he is allergic to) (i didn’t even read it because i refuse to continue since she was caught by boone) carries the whole book.
Honestly i lost it in the train scene with the rogues. She knew she was in danger and planned to save ronan but still made herself weaker??? I mean, she did say it was for “peace of mind” but at that point it just made zero sense because she pretended to save a dude who was thrice her size with… what? Her lost ability to fight? Her wits that led her to trap kian (who had only been helping her (not to mention she mad the same mistake as in the first book again after she regretted it greatly (treating the people who help her badly) SUPPOSEDLY))? Or her incredible ability to plan that led her to send ness alone when it was so obvious that she was going to get caught and that she could be used against her (and anyway, if ness was a pooka she could have easily just transported herself).
The whole story just seems to have holes in it and they are obviated because she just calls herself an idiot after she realizes her mistakes or curses whatever SHE has used to harm herself.
(As a plus, ronan’s first pov (the prologue) was just so messy. I understand it was supposed to help the reader remember the previous book, but it was sooooo messy it just confused me even more (and i started reading the second book straight after the first))
I could not make it farther than the 18% of the book. I finished the first one barely but i honestly cannot understand what is so good about it that so many people are speaking about it. It just seems like a little scene (where he supposedly grovels bringing her flowers that he is allergic to) (i didn’t even read it because i refuse to continue since she was caught by boone) carries the whole book.
Honestly i lost it in the train scene with the rogues. She knew she was in danger and planned to save ronan but still made herself weaker??? I mean, she did say it was for “peace of mind” but at that point it just made zero sense because she pretended to save a dude who was thrice her size with… what? Her lost ability to fight? Her wits that led her to trap kian (who had only been helping her (not to mention she mad the same mistake as in the first book again after she regretted it greatly (treating the people who help her badly) SUPPOSEDLY))? Or her incredible ability to plan that led her to send ness alone when it was so obvious that she was going to get caught and that she could be used against her (and anyway, if ness was a pooka she could have easily just transported herself).
The whole story just seems to have holes in it and they are obviated because she just calls herself an idiot after she realizes her mistakes or curses whatever SHE has used to harm herself.
(As a plus, ronan’s first pov (the prologue) was just so messy. I understand it was supposed to help the reader remember the previous book, but it was sooooo messy it just confused me even more (and i started reading the second book straight after the first))
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2025
If the whole miscommunication trope is your vibe… this is the series for you!
The FMC is insufferable. She was slightly better in this book compared to the first book, but still. Actually, her still messing with Ronin after she thinks he has a mate is dumb and it pisses me off. Stop being a pick-me! Ohhh okay, she’s going to save him?? Right. She’s been drugging herself to weaken her dragon. What is she gonna add here🤨And the way she keeps forgetting about Ness?! Come on now. She’s a hypocritical, condescending BRAT! Geez. Anyway, since book 3 comes out in a few days on KU, I’ll read it. But know this, if I had to pay additional money for it, I’d skip it. It’s not that good.
Some of the scenes were choppy and didn’t make sense, especially when they’re on a journey through the mountains. Kian can literally just show up in 10 mins🤨What?? So what’s the point of them trekking through the wilderness for days, battling severe snow storms and risk getting caught when he could just wear them like a backpack and be there in no time? Speaking of the snow storms, it just didn’t flow, it wasn’t believable writing. I’m not sure what terminology I’m looking for here, I’m a reader not a writer. When Ronan is supposed to protect her but he lets rose dust to fall on him knowing he’s highly allergic and will have a severe reaction… all because he doesn’t want to disturb her? Okay. So then he’s out cold for days and she’s in charge and vulnerable. Sure. Also, the storm itself was weird. A lot of description went into the way gems are hunted but nothing really came of it. So what was the point? Once again, Kian could’ve speed walked them both there in less than 30 mins total.
**ending spoiler alert**
Umm, let’s be real. The appearance of her dragon during the last battle scene is so incredibly anticlimactic. It was an utter disappointment and such a flop! The dragon was in the air for about 7 seconds and a few arrows brings her down??? Seriously?! She was completely worthless! She did nothing. Not one darn thing. Also, the Finn plotline was obvious from a mile away.
The FMC is insufferable. She was slightly better in this book compared to the first book, but still. Actually, her still messing with Ronin after she thinks he has a mate is dumb and it pisses me off. Stop being a pick-me! Ohhh okay, she’s going to save him?? Right. She’s been drugging herself to weaken her dragon. What is she gonna add here🤨And the way she keeps forgetting about Ness?! Come on now. She’s a hypocritical, condescending BRAT! Geez. Anyway, since book 3 comes out in a few days on KU, I’ll read it. But know this, if I had to pay additional money for it, I’d skip it. It’s not that good.
Some of the scenes were choppy and didn’t make sense, especially when they’re on a journey through the mountains. Kian can literally just show up in 10 mins🤨What?? So what’s the point of them trekking through the wilderness for days, battling severe snow storms and risk getting caught when he could just wear them like a backpack and be there in no time? Speaking of the snow storms, it just didn’t flow, it wasn’t believable writing. I’m not sure what terminology I’m looking for here, I’m a reader not a writer. When Ronan is supposed to protect her but he lets rose dust to fall on him knowing he’s highly allergic and will have a severe reaction… all because he doesn’t want to disturb her? Okay. So then he’s out cold for days and she’s in charge and vulnerable. Sure. Also, the storm itself was weird. A lot of description went into the way gems are hunted but nothing really came of it. So what was the point? Once again, Kian could’ve speed walked them both there in less than 30 mins total.
**ending spoiler alert**
Umm, let’s be real. The appearance of her dragon during the last battle scene is so incredibly anticlimactic. It was an utter disappointment and such a flop! The dragon was in the air for about 7 seconds and a few arrows brings her down??? Seriously?! She was completely worthless! She did nothing. Not one darn thing. Also, the Finn plotline was obvious from a mile away.
December 9, 2025
holy miscommunication for the entire book
November 16, 2024
Ehhh not as good as the first, by far
Miscommunication to the extreme… and like why? We all knew they would end up together, what was the point of dragging it on and on… bunch of martyrs. I’m a monster no I’m more of a monster. We are just so unlovable, but wait I love little kids and let people walk all over me and take everything from me even though I’m all powerful!
The magic in this book is all over the place, makes no sense.
Finn was such a classic villain from page one it was comical anyone is surprised. Like yea duh the guy has been an a hole from that start of course he’s the traitor… but why is he a traitor? Anyone know? Cause Ronan killed his family who he never knew then literally gave him everything he could ever want! Like dude you didn’t suffer? You were a baby, yea ur parents died and then you got a new mom and kingdom and no one you actually knew on any level died. Then Finn goes and kills everyone he ever knew… why? What’s the point? Makes no sense
Now for a race that is dying out and slowly but surely going to get killed by monsters why are they killing each other? One dragon and they kill what a quarter of their population? Why?
Miscommunication to the extreme… and like why? We all knew they would end up together, what was the point of dragging it on and on… bunch of martyrs. I’m a monster no I’m more of a monster. We are just so unlovable, but wait I love little kids and let people walk all over me and take everything from me even though I’m all powerful!
The magic in this book is all over the place, makes no sense.
Finn was such a classic villain from page one it was comical anyone is surprised. Like yea duh the guy has been an a hole from that start of course he’s the traitor… but why is he a traitor? Anyone know? Cause Ronan killed his family who he never knew then literally gave him everything he could ever want! Like dude you didn’t suffer? You were a baby, yea ur parents died and then you got a new mom and kingdom and no one you actually knew on any level died. Then Finn goes and kills everyone he ever knew… why? What’s the point? Makes no sense
Now for a race that is dying out and slowly but surely going to get killed by monsters why are they killing each other? One dragon and they kill what a quarter of their population? Why?
January 23, 2025
It took me a little to get into this book, but overall, it was a good sequel. There was too much miscommunication between the MCs for me. Ronan knows they are mates yet wants Vera to think he is mated to someone else... but yet he can't live without her?
As for Finn being the villain, I think he was a villain for most of the first book, so it didn't come as much as a surprise for me. However, I don't understand how Finn could betray Ronan. He explained why he murdered his entire family. He is siding with the King, knowing the King gave bad information to Ronan, and that is why he no longer has a family. If anything, Finn should be helping Ronan and his people get revenge after all they've done for him.
I am not sure if this is supposed to be a trilogy but I am hoping the next book wraps this all up and doesn't drag on like this one did. There were a lot of unnecessary fillers in this book.
As for Finn being the villain, I think he was a villain for most of the first book, so it didn't come as much as a surprise for me. However, I don't understand how Finn could betray Ronan. He explained why he murdered his entire family. He is siding with the King, knowing the King gave bad information to Ronan, and that is why he no longer has a family. If anything, Finn should be helping Ronan and his people get revenge after all they've done for him.
I am not sure if this is supposed to be a trilogy but I am hoping the next book wraps this all up and doesn't drag on like this one did. There were a lot of unnecessary fillers in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2025
I think I read a new edited version of the first book because there were some things mentioned in this second book that I didn’t read in the first one. Also, some were already mentioned in the first but it was mentioned again in the second book like it was new information. An example of this was Vera telling Ronan she’d lost her fighting ability in the first book, it got me confused why Ronan didn’t understand why Vera couldn’t defend herself in this book when they attacked her 20 against 1, when I specifically remembered reading in book 1 Vera told him. The kitchen and soup poisoning part in book 1, it wasn’t part of the book I read so that also left me confused when it came up in book 2. I had to go scroll back to the end of book 1 thinking I missed a chapter but nope. Vera and Ronan were on good terms in book 1 still.
July 11, 2024
3.5
This was a good sequel, the angst was top notch, the miscommunication was rampant, and I kind of liked it??
The plot was a little bit messy but I really like the worldbuilding and also Kian and Kylah… I really loved them !
My utmost favorite parts were when we got to see how devastated and tired Vera was, she had been faced with some horrible terrors in her life and she continued on anyways. I usually don’t like when the FMC are stubborn but Vera had a reason to be stubborn and set in her ways because no one took care of her. Her vulnerability and her pride was one of my favorite things about her. She had to learn to take care of herself - and anyone else that had to take care of themself at a young age, I’m so proud. You’re doing a great job.🫶
Looking forward to the next book!
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The only thing I didn’t like was how many references/ ideas that reminded me of ACOMAF by SJM. I am unsure if it was intentional or not but the second half of the book definitely reminded me of when Feyre learned of her mate bond with Rhysand. Lots of brooding, confrontation about how long the mate bond was hidden from FMC, a friend whisks her away to a cabin, FMC allows herself to mourn (for good reason, MMC had to apologize fr), MMC shares his tragic backstory, FMC decides to accept her mating bond even though the MMC calls himself a “monster”, they make up and have sex. There’s also specific phrases that caught my eye such as:
“she said, quietly, fiercely.”
During the sex scene after accepting the mating bond, she was “glowing from within. Bright streaks of light were shooting out of my fingertips”.
And something in reference to how could an amazing woman like you be mated to a monster like me??
This didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book! Just observations I couldn’t help making.
This was a good sequel, the angst was top notch, the miscommunication was rampant, and I kind of liked it??
The plot was a little bit messy but I really like the worldbuilding and also Kian and Kylah… I really loved them !
My utmost favorite parts were when we got to see how devastated and tired Vera was, she had been faced with some horrible terrors in her life and she continued on anyways. I usually don’t like when the FMC are stubborn but Vera had a reason to be stubborn and set in her ways because no one took care of her. Her vulnerability and her pride was one of my favorite things about her. She had to learn to take care of herself - and anyone else that had to take care of themself at a young age, I’m so proud. You’re doing a great job.🫶
Looking forward to the next book!
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S P O I L E R S
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The only thing I didn’t like was how many references/ ideas that reminded me of ACOMAF by SJM. I am unsure if it was intentional or not but the second half of the book definitely reminded me of when Feyre learned of her mate bond with Rhysand. Lots of brooding, confrontation about how long the mate bond was hidden from FMC, a friend whisks her away to a cabin, FMC allows herself to mourn (for good reason, MMC had to apologize fr), MMC shares his tragic backstory, FMC decides to accept her mating bond even though the MMC calls himself a “monster”, they make up and have sex. There’s also specific phrases that caught my eye such as:
“she said, quietly, fiercely.”
During the sex scene after accepting the mating bond, she was “glowing from within. Bright streaks of light were shooting out of my fingertips”.
And something in reference to how could an amazing woman like you be mated to a monster like me??
This didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book! Just observations I couldn’t help making.
July 6, 2025
Well, I'm not reading the next one.
First up: this was not love.
It's even more atrocious because these were initially supposed to be YA books. I don't typically care that adult books have dysfunctional unhealthy relationships, but romanticizing abuse for young audiences is where I fucking draw a line. No young woman should expect to hope that a happily ever after could be found in an abusive relationship.
I don't know that the original was this awful, but I can't imagine that it wasn't.
There's a difference between snarky behavior and outright abuse. And this was coming from both characters. It actually went beyond the point of return for me, even as an adult read. There was no room for reconciliation by the time Durey decided to reign it in.
Outside of the ridiculous relationship drama that still held so much YA elements to it, such as the immature reasoning for everything, the rest of the story was rather ignored. Things come together quickly in a jarring manner rather than unfolding.
The cliffhanger clearly needed to happen to explore one of the stakes that's been hanging around since the first book, but it was expected.
Also, this book was basically the first book rewritten. Nothing really new happens. It's essentially the same formula. Which kinda made the first book, or this one, unnecessary.
Anyway, I'm not enjoying the read. The characters do not belong together in a happily ever after from what I've seen. So there's little reason for me to read to that conclusion. At this point, I'm kinda rooting for the king to wipe out these two characters.
First up: this was not love.
It's even more atrocious because these were initially supposed to be YA books. I don't typically care that adult books have dysfunctional unhealthy relationships, but romanticizing abuse for young audiences is where I fucking draw a line. No young woman should expect to hope that a happily ever after could be found in an abusive relationship.
I don't know that the original was this awful, but I can't imagine that it wasn't.
There's a difference between snarky behavior and outright abuse. And this was coming from both characters. It actually went beyond the point of return for me, even as an adult read. There was no room for reconciliation by the time Durey decided to reign it in.
Outside of the ridiculous relationship drama that still held so much YA elements to it, such as the immature reasoning for everything, the rest of the story was rather ignored. Things come together quickly in a jarring manner rather than unfolding.
The cliffhanger clearly needed to happen to explore one of the stakes that's been hanging around since the first book, but it was expected.
Also, this book was basically the first book rewritten. Nothing really new happens. It's essentially the same formula. Which kinda made the first book, or this one, unnecessary.
Anyway, I'm not enjoying the read. The characters do not belong together in a happily ever after from what I've seen. So there's little reason for me to read to that conclusion. At this point, I'm kinda rooting for the king to wipe out these two characters.
August 9, 2025
2.5
the entire book is based on him hiding the fact she's his mate because of something horrible he did centuries ago. book 1 was absolutely plotless, book 2 was better but still more romance focused, idk if there will be a book 3 since this ends on a cliffhanger but i will not be reading it
70% and up i found my self so irritated with the dialogues, most of it was Vera demanding the truth and Ronan telling her can't say, and this happens sooo many times.
he asks her not to leave because he wants to talk and asks her to stay and be with him but of course she can't stay without knowing why he lied, she demands the truth, he says he can't and it happens all over again like 20 times. i expected the truth to be more unhinged but his reasoning was still acceptable for me, after reading so many books where the mmc lied for dumb reasons this was okay in my book
safety:
safe
no cheating
owd: the mmc tells the fmc that his friend Kylah is his mate to cover up the fact that the fmc is his true mate, he kisses Kyla at one point because Vera was watching, it was pointless and made no sense since Vera accepted the truth and Kylah ended up slapping him for it.
Kylah was 100% against this plan and is actually very sweet, and was the one who told Vera the truth and supported her when she needed time out away from Roan , Ronan? i forgot his name
the entire book is based on him hiding the fact she's his mate because of something horrible he did centuries ago. book 1 was absolutely plotless, book 2 was better but still more romance focused, idk if there will be a book 3 since this ends on a cliffhanger but i will not be reading it
70% and up i found my self so irritated with the dialogues, most of it was Vera demanding the truth and Ronan telling her can't say, and this happens sooo many times.
he asks her not to leave because he wants to talk and asks her to stay and be with him but of course she can't stay without knowing why he lied, she demands the truth, he says he can't and it happens all over again like 20 times. i expected the truth to be more unhinged but his reasoning was still acceptable for me, after reading so many books where the mmc lied for dumb reasons this was okay in my book
safety:
safe
no cheating
owd: the mmc tells the fmc that his friend Kylah is his mate to cover up the fact that the fmc is his true mate, he kisses Kyla at one point because Vera was watching, it was pointless and made no sense since Vera accepted the truth and Kylah ended up slapping him for it.
Kylah was 100% against this plan and is actually very sweet, and was the one who told Vera the truth and supported her when she needed time out away from Roan , Ronan? i forgot his name
June 29, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book in the series definitely SCREAMS The Witcher inspired, and I am not mad at all! I ate up every single glorious second of this book!
You want Dark Fantasy with HIGH spice? This is the series you want to read.
Did I mention it's SPICY?!?!?🔥
I loved the first book, but OMG this second one had me SCREAMING with emotion.
I haven't been extremely attached to characters in a while, and let me just explain what I mean...
Chapter 8 alone had me wanting to THROW my Kindle across the room and then pick it up and uninstall the book as a DNF.
Not because it was bad, gods no, because Ronan pissed me off so badly with his actions that I was more infuriated than Vera.
The book as a whole was just an emotional rollercoaster of anger, screaming, pissed off, crying, heartbreak... I could list more but you'd be here all day and I need you to read this series.
Lastly, Kian... I don't even have words. He's not even the MMC and I already have established him as my book boyfriend. His personality SENT me! He's fucking perfect 🤣
I'm dying for book 3. This series is perfection!
Read it, enjoy it, love it!
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Slow Burn ❤️🔥
Fated Mates
Betrayal/ Deception
Epic Level Banter! 🔥
Unhinged MMC
Vicious FMC
Found Family
The Witcher Vibes - Love it!!
Ends on a Cliffhanger
This book in the series definitely SCREAMS The Witcher inspired, and I am not mad at all! I ate up every single glorious second of this book!
You want Dark Fantasy with HIGH spice? This is the series you want to read.
Did I mention it's SPICY?!?!?🔥
I loved the first book, but OMG this second one had me SCREAMING with emotion.
I haven't been extremely attached to characters in a while, and let me just explain what I mean...
Chapter 8 alone had me wanting to THROW my Kindle across the room and then pick it up and uninstall the book as a DNF.
Not because it was bad, gods no, because Ronan pissed me off so badly with his actions that I was more infuriated than Vera.
The book as a whole was just an emotional rollercoaster of anger, screaming, pissed off, crying, heartbreak... I could list more but you'd be here all day and I need you to read this series.
Lastly, Kian... I don't even have words. He's not even the MMC and I already have established him as my book boyfriend. His personality SENT me! He's fucking perfect 🤣
I'm dying for book 3. This series is perfection!
Read it, enjoy it, love it!
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Slow Burn ❤️🔥
Fated Mates
Betrayal/ Deception
Epic Level Banter! 🔥
Unhinged MMC
Vicious FMC
Found Family
The Witcher Vibes - Love it!!
Ends on a Cliffhanger
June 9, 2025
This book dropped a lot in quality from book 1. The biggest issue I have is that the miscommunication in book 1 not only continues, but gets worse in book 2. The characters have zero reason to continue to lie or withhold information but continue to do so anyway, just to annoy the reader. When it eventually all comes to light, there really was legit no reason for Ronan to keep things hidden, like literally zero motivation to do so, other than to annoy us into having to read about Vera whining about how he has a mate so she can't love him back. It is incessant and such a slog to read through. I assume he would have some crazy extravagant reason, like he is the reason she was turned into a dragon or something, but no, he's scared cuz he did some shit that is not any worst that what he did for the other 500 years of his life. It is so stupid.
There is a lot of build up to things with very little follow through. The size of the world makes no sense as travel times are just made up to fit the story. Sometimes it's 5 days away, then suddenly they can get there in one afternoon. The politics are not well developed and there are so many interesting things that could have been done but just aren't. It feels like such a filler book, maybe it is a victim of second book syndrome, but regardless I will not bother reading book 3.
There is a lot of build up to things with very little follow through. The size of the world makes no sense as travel times are just made up to fit the story. Sometimes it's 5 days away, then suddenly they can get there in one afternoon. The politics are not well developed and there are so many interesting things that could have been done but just aren't. It feels like such a filler book, maybe it is a victim of second book syndrome, but regardless I will not bother reading book 3.
April 18, 2025
THE MISCOMMUNICATION THROUGHOUT ALL OF IT HURT MY BRAIN SO BAD LIKE YOU WOULDN'T HAVE TO SUFFER IF YOU JUST TALKED TO EACH OTHER. ATP IT TAKES UP OVER HALF OF THE BOOK. If there was no miscommunication, the book would be like 100 pages... I feel that they lost the plot after the romance aspects were introduced more too. Some parts were a little extra and weird for me, but that's just a personal preference.
Also, why were the characters SO STUPID like literally everything would be easier if THEY JUST USED THEIR BRAINCELLS (not that they have any). SO MANY PROBLEMS COULD'VE BEEN AVOIDED IF THEY JUST THOUGHT FOR ONCE. Not only do they have a low IQ, they also lack in emotional intelligence. While some scenes and plot points were enjoyable, the experience was kind of ruined by me trying not to rip my hair out just from reading the PURE STUPIDITY OF THE MAIN CHARACTERS.
I probably would've rated this 2 stars (2 for an occasional decent plot point and scene), as the first book was WAY better, but my favs Kian and Kylah gave it an extra.
Also, why were the characters SO STUPID like literally everything would be easier if THEY JUST USED THEIR BRAINCELLS (not that they have any). SO MANY PROBLEMS COULD'VE BEEN AVOIDED IF THEY JUST THOUGHT FOR ONCE. Not only do they have a low IQ, they also lack in emotional intelligence. While some scenes and plot points were enjoyable, the experience was kind of ruined by me trying not to rip my hair out just from reading the PURE STUPIDITY OF THE MAIN CHARACTERS.
I probably would've rated this 2 stars (2 for an occasional decent plot point and scene), as the first book was WAY better, but my favs Kian and Kylah gave it an extra.
July 22, 2025
I hate a miscommunication trope just as much as much as the next person… BUT, I could kind of forgive Ronan for his reasons to be so secretive with Vera. He had legit excuses. I still hated it, but I forgave him.
I told myself not to get excited when they finally made up with less than 20% left in Book TWO! I knew shit would hit the fan… and did it ever!
To be honest, I don’t know how Ronan recovers from this. He carried enough guilt over what he did centuries ago to a house that wasn’t his. And now this?
At this point, I’m thinking Battle-Mode Ronan and Dragon Vera will just ride off into a blood and guts gory end together. But, at least they’ll be together!
Right?
And you, Finn… oh boy… the last time I felt this much rage toward a character was when Dumbledore ended up being the dastardly villain in Harry’s story, after all.
On to Book Three… bring on the trauma.
I told myself not to get excited when they finally made up with less than 20% left in Book TWO! I knew shit would hit the fan… and did it ever!
To be honest, I don’t know how Ronan recovers from this. He carried enough guilt over what he did centuries ago to a house that wasn’t his. And now this?
At this point, I’m thinking Battle-Mode Ronan and Dragon Vera will just ride off into a blood and guts gory end together. But, at least they’ll be together!
Right?
And you, Finn… oh boy… the last time I felt this much rage toward a character was when Dumbledore ended up being the dastardly villain in Harry’s story, after all.
On to Book Three… bring on the trauma.
August 16, 2024
Book 2, well worth the wait!
The first books plot and characters captured my attention and quickly became one of my favorites. Could hardly wait for the second book. I'd participated in the arc for book #2 and Shannen let us know she was taking however long it took to ensure it was the best it could be. Much love and respect for Shannen and her hard work. I could NOT put down this book! I found myself even more enraptured in the story. Every emotion you could feel, I have felt reading this. No spoilers at all from me, but this was WELL worth the wait and I'm already dying for #3. Shannen is fiercely talented and this series is a breath of fresh air for me. Absolute yes for me on this one. Five stars, two thumbs up and a big high five to Shannen.
The first books plot and characters captured my attention and quickly became one of my favorites. Could hardly wait for the second book. I'd participated in the arc for book #2 and Shannen let us know she was taking however long it took to ensure it was the best it could be. Much love and respect for Shannen and her hard work. I could NOT put down this book! I found myself even more enraptured in the story. Every emotion you could feel, I have felt reading this. No spoilers at all from me, but this was WELL worth the wait and I'm already dying for #3. Shannen is fiercely talented and this series is a breath of fresh air for me. Absolute yes for me on this one. Five stars, two thumbs up and a big high five to Shannen.
September 12, 2024
Very angsty, very high tension, and full of miscommunication between lovers. Everyone thinks they’re not worthy of falling in love and fight it for a good portion of the book. However, it was still an interesting sequel that kept me reading.
Our little heroine Vera spends a great portion of the book running away from herself, her thoughts, her feelings and her inner magic. Ronan spends half this book annoying me as he tries to make Vera feel inadequate while trying to “keep her safe”. Please.
However, I greatly enjoyed the 2 stooges Kian and Kylah and how they weaseled their way into being Vera’s persons. She will greatly need these two in the next book when she’s forced to withstand some evils.
Our little heroine Vera spends a great portion of the book running away from herself, her thoughts, her feelings and her inner magic. Ronan spends half this book annoying me as he tries to make Vera feel inadequate while trying to “keep her safe”. Please.
However, I greatly enjoyed the 2 stooges Kian and Kylah and how they weaseled their way into being Vera’s persons. She will greatly need these two in the next book when she’s forced to withstand some evils.
November 25, 2025
What the actual heck was that cliffhanger?
You can’t in the same chapter tell me my favourite character dies and then all of a sudden is alive again because of hallucinations caused by a damn monster?! My heart aches after that rollercoaster and I’m guessing it’s going to get nothing but worse in the next book.
I absolutely am loving this series so far; I’m mad it took so long for Kylah to tell Vera that she wasn’t Ronan’s mate but I so happy with how her and Kian were there for Vera when she didn’t think she had anyone left. I love them for her and I love the situation was resolved.
That man really risked his life by getting that bouquet for her and honestly fair, if my man doesn’t do that for me I want a refund!
You can’t in the same chapter tell me my favourite character dies and then all of a sudden is alive again because of hallucinations caused by a damn monster?! My heart aches after that rollercoaster and I’m guessing it’s going to get nothing but worse in the next book.
I absolutely am loving this series so far; I’m mad it took so long for Kylah to tell Vera that she wasn’t Ronan’s mate but I so happy with how her and Kian were there for Vera when she didn’t think she had anyone left. I love them for her and I love the situation was resolved.
That man really risked his life by getting that bouquet for her and honestly fair, if my man doesn’t do that for me I want a refund!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2024
3.25
I was really looking forward to this book, but it lacked the same spark that drew me to the first book. The first part of this installment was exciting, but around the 50% mark, I was just left confused by plot points and decisions made by some characters. Things seemed to be pulled out of thin air to further the plot, and a certain conversation/scene that took place… just wasn’t convincing enough to excuse the weird decision making from the main characters. Not sure if I’ll be continuing the series.
I was really looking forward to this book, but it lacked the same spark that drew me to the first book. The first part of this installment was exciting, but around the 50% mark, I was just left confused by plot points and decisions made by some characters. Things seemed to be pulled out of thin air to further the plot, and a certain conversation/scene that took place… just wasn’t convincing enough to excuse the weird decision making from the main characters. Not sure if I’ll be continuing the series.
June 20, 2024
pretty good!
There’s mechanical/grammatical mistakes, misspellings, some general editorial fixes that could be made. The overall plot is good. It does jump scenes a bit, but I could keep track of the story very well still. It was a bit frustrating to watch Ronan and Vera have the common issues of miscommunication, but that’s a common trope so not too bad. Overall, I enjoyed it and will read the next book!
There’s mechanical/grammatical mistakes, misspellings, some general editorial fixes that could be made. The overall plot is good. It does jump scenes a bit, but I could keep track of the story very well still. It was a bit frustrating to watch Ronan and Vera have the common issues of miscommunication, but that’s a common trope so not too bad. Overall, I enjoyed it and will read the next book!
January 2, 2025
Ohhh the emotions of this book.
Gut wrenching at times, especially with the beginning twist!
I found some errors with names being swapped(“she cried Ronan but then the next page he said she cried rolan of his glamor, but the previous page she didn’t say rolan). Some of the plot had me confused, but not to the extent of me not happy.
I don’t want to wait 6 months for book 3! I’m not ready for the aftermath of the cliff hanger.
Gut wrenching at times, especially with the beginning twist!
I found some errors with names being swapped(“she cried Ronan but then the next page he said she cried rolan of his glamor, but the previous page she didn’t say rolan). Some of the plot had me confused, but not to the extent of me not happy.
I don’t want to wait 6 months for book 3! I’m not ready for the aftermath of the cliff hanger.
March 7, 2025
Why did it have to end that way!!!!! 😢
Now I have to wait until the next one is out to see what happens after that cliffhanger.
I love this series, it's been on my tbr for so long I should have read it soon.
I love this story line, even though at the moment it's breaking my heart all the heart ache these poor people have had to go through, they deserve a HEA, please let them get a HEA in the next book, I need it, they need it, we all need it!!
Now I have to wait until the next one is out to see what happens after that cliffhanger.
I love this series, it's been on my tbr for so long I should have read it soon.
I love this story line, even though at the moment it's breaking my heart all the heart ache these poor people have had to go through, they deserve a HEA, please let them get a HEA in the next book, I need it, they need it, we all need it!!
February 6, 2025
could have been better
The plot twist at the end annoyed me, no reason to read the third. I don’t know why it always has to be the same things, I guess imaginations don’t go as far as they used too, or maybe we just don’t want things to end so we have to add a bunch of meaningless fillers to make it last longer.
The plot twist at the end annoyed me, no reason to read the third. I don’t know why it always has to be the same things, I guess imaginations don’t go as far as they used too, or maybe we just don’t want things to end so we have to add a bunch of meaningless fillers to make it last longer.
March 22, 2025
This was the continuation of the story established in book 1 and while it was pretty good. It was the political storylines that got a little muddy. There is a lot of side drama but it feels unexplored. The main storyline is fun. Definitely still 🌶️ and some great giggly moments. I did really enjoy this and look forward to book 3 cause we ended right in the middle of the action.
March 23, 2025
First, 50% of this book beat the miscommunication trope to DEATH!! I almost stopped then but had hoped for improvement because I loved the first book. I felt like Vera’s transition from lonely monster to force Lady of the house was over night. There wasn’t a gradual character build she just was. Overall, I’m disappointed. Don’t know if I’ll read the third but maybe.
August 1, 2025
WHAT THE HELLY
Cliff hangers are good. The next book, is like coffee in the morning.
We love our enforcer.
If you like to feel the emotions of your books, this is the one. I felt everything right along with Vera.
It was a rough start but I love where it's going. Even through all of the bad. I'm having faith.
Cliff hangers are good. The next book, is like coffee in the morning.
We love our enforcer.
If you like to feel the emotions of your books, this is the one. I felt everything right along with Vera.
It was a rough start but I love where it's going. Even through all of the bad. I'm having faith.
November 26, 2024
3.5, It was a good quick read but once again i just need a little bit more substance. I also need someone to address Vera’s unclaimed family name bc ik her being a dragon isnt the ONLY thing about her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2025
I won't lie, I don't remember anything that happened in this book which for me, someone who barely remembers things anyway, is an accomplishment. I remember being enjoyed while reading, and hating the lack of communication. I may need to re-read then come back to this review.
February 11, 2025
I wish she held out longer in her anger. I was a little disappointed she forgave him so quickly after heading to the cabin. Also when everyone involved allowed him to build the tower and call out to her??? What happened to bringing her to be alone?
Yes he brought the flowers he was allergic to but 🤷🏻♀️ that was one gesture. I wish she had spent time to come to the conclusion herself while he continued staying by her side (out of sight).
miscommunication bleck
Yes he brought the flowers he was allergic to but 🤷🏻♀️ that was one gesture. I wish she had spent time to come to the conclusion herself while he continued staying by her side (out of sight).
miscommunication bleck
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2025
I absolutely love this series so far! I hated the ending of this book only because of the way it ended. I also thought it was a completed series when I started it but nope. So that was a shocker! Totally recommend!
April 20, 2025
I didn’t like this one as much as the first one, but it was still worth reading. The miscommunication was a bit overdone, but I really liked the show portion of her learning how to fight again and how to use her wings. Her skills just weren’t there. I would give this 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
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