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Charassi's Fae Queen #1
The Bone Crown
From high school student to Queen of the Fae…
When a dragon bulldozes through a portal and into the grounds of her Texas school, Ophelia Monroe can barely believe her eyes. Dragons and magic are just fairy tales, right?
When the dying dragon bonds with her to spite a Fae prince, suddenly Ophelia is dragged into a different realm: a world of Fae intrigue and deception where, as Prince Corrin informs her, her dragon bond has made her Queen of the Fae.
His Queen.
Ophelia’s always wanted to make a difference, but nothing could have prepared her for magical powers she can’t control, a dead dragon's voice in her head, and subjects questioning her right to be queen. Or the infuriatingly handsome Fae prince who won't leave her side.
To avoid execution, Ophelia must validate her claim to the throne by traveling throughout the magical realm, accompanied by Prince Corrin. But the journey reveals a dark secret lurking in Charassi...
The only way to save the realm is to find the source of the trouble; but the truth may be just as terrible as the evil magic that threatens the Fae’s existence.
Get ready to dive into an unforgettable new fantasy world filled with magic, lovable (and hateable!) characters, fae curses, wise dragons and a wholesome romance.
When a dragon bulldozes through a portal and into the grounds of her Texas school, Ophelia Monroe can barely believe her eyes. Dragons and magic are just fairy tales, right?
When the dying dragon bonds with her to spite a Fae prince, suddenly Ophelia is dragged into a different realm: a world of Fae intrigue and deception where, as Prince Corrin informs her, her dragon bond has made her Queen of the Fae.
His Queen.
Ophelia’s always wanted to make a difference, but nothing could have prepared her for magical powers she can’t control, a dead dragon's voice in her head, and subjects questioning her right to be queen. Or the infuriatingly handsome Fae prince who won't leave her side.
To avoid execution, Ophelia must validate her claim to the throne by traveling throughout the magical realm, accompanied by Prince Corrin. But the journey reveals a dark secret lurking in Charassi...
The only way to save the realm is to find the source of the trouble; but the truth may be just as terrible as the evil magic that threatens the Fae’s existence.
Get ready to dive into an unforgettable new fantasy world filled with magic, lovable (and hateable!) characters, fae curses, wise dragons and a wholesome romance.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2022
About the author
Ava Richardson
160 books439 followersAva Richardson writes epic page-turning Young Adult Fantasy books. She creates lovable characters and drops them into intricate worlds that are barely contained within your eReader. Ava has written 21 YA dragon fantasy series, including her bestselling series Return of the Darkening and her recent series, Destia's Dragon Shifter War.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
September 10, 2022
4 Solid Stars for this very sweet tale!
Ophelia Monroe and High Fae Prince Corrin are two of the sweetest main characters you'll ever meet in this fantasy story that reads very much like an elaborate and elegantly written fairy tale.
The intricate details of Charassi's landscape and the characters who inhabit Prince Corrin's realm, as well as the centuries old relationship between Fae and dragons, combine to create a delightfully unique backdrop for the narrative. This makes the author's approach to the fantasy genre wonderfully refreshing.
Ophelia is a compassionate and tough teen known for standing up to bullies who pick on other students. Throwing a punch at school leads to detention. But putting her weight behind punches at deadly adversaries from another realm can save lives.
I loved reading Ophelia's bond with her dragon, Sunny. Their banter, at times witty, is overall fun to read.
High Fae Prince Corrin is honorable and genuinely charming. And while there is a hint of light romance between Ophelia and Corrin, The Bone Crown focuses on their shared journey through their home realms, where they must outrun enemies, forge allies, race against the clock to solve a great mystery, and defeat a looming threat that could destroy entire species.
The Bone Crown is a captivating odyssey and magical adventure, with a very fast paced, suspenseful, and exciting turn of events in the last few chapters. I love that element of unpredictable surprise.
The Bone Crown ends on a cliffhanger, with strong and endearing bonds formed between many characters. How these characters face the future together as friends/allies is what I look forward to reading in the next chapters of their odyssey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ophelia Monroe and High Fae Prince Corrin are two of the sweetest main characters you'll ever meet in this fantasy story that reads very much like an elaborate and elegantly written fairy tale.
The intricate details of Charassi's landscape and the characters who inhabit Prince Corrin's realm, as well as the centuries old relationship between Fae and dragons, combine to create a delightfully unique backdrop for the narrative. This makes the author's approach to the fantasy genre wonderfully refreshing.
Ophelia is a compassionate and tough teen known for standing up to bullies who pick on other students. Throwing a punch at school leads to detention. But putting her weight behind punches at deadly adversaries from another realm can save lives.
I loved reading Ophelia's bond with her dragon, Sunny. Their banter, at times witty, is overall fun to read.
High Fae Prince Corrin is honorable and genuinely charming. And while there is a hint of light romance between Ophelia and Corrin, The Bone Crown focuses on their shared journey through their home realms, where they must outrun enemies, forge allies, race against the clock to solve a great mystery, and defeat a looming threat that could destroy entire species.
The Bone Crown is a captivating odyssey and magical adventure, with a very fast paced, suspenseful, and exciting turn of events in the last few chapters. I love that element of unpredictable surprise.
The Bone Crown ends on a cliffhanger, with strong and endearing bonds formed between many characters. How these characters face the future together as friends/allies is what I look forward to reading in the next chapters of their odyssey.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2022
I was sent this advanced copy to read in exchange for a honest review. A fantastic read, full of unexpected twists and turns. If you’re a fan of the Crave series or An Enchantment of Ravens, you’ll enjoy this story. While there is an undertone of romance it’s all quite chaste and innocent- hopefully it develops more in the latter books. But the world building is good- detailed but not drawn out, a really enjoyable story, looking forward to the next book already!
July 26, 2022
This is the 2nd book from this author that I have read. From 2 different series.both I highly enjoyed. I can't wait for the next book in the series due August 31st. A really good cover as well which I would give a 5 too if you are looking for a new series try this you won't regret it.
August 3, 2022
I received a copy of The Bone Crown via NetGalley to read and review.
I enjoyed The Bone Crown. The relationship between human/fae/dragon are really well written and it doesn’t hurt Ophelia is from Texas! (Native Houstonian here!) I will be reading the next book in series set to release at the end of August
I enjoyed The Bone Crown. The relationship between human/fae/dragon are really well written and it doesn’t hurt Ophelia is from Texas! (Native Houstonian here!) I will be reading the next book in series set to release at the end of August
August 9, 2022
This is the first book by Ava Richardson that I have read.
I finished this book in one day!
Ophelia is a high school student in Texas who is known for standing up to bullies. When she finds a dragon and stands up for him, the dragon bonds himself to Ophelia, which allows his spirit, and magic, to live within her. Because the dragon bonded with her, this also means she is now the High Queen of the Fae in another realm, where magic is everywhere.
Corrin is the Greater Prince of Charassi - he was trying to get the dragon to bond to him so he could be the High King of the Fae. Instead of being bitter about Ophelia being chosen, he helps her. Corrin is an overall honorable and nice guy.
Ophelia and Corrin eventually set out on an adventure to prove to the people she is indeed the High Queen of the Fae. They also learn more about the threat that Charassi is facing.
All the scenes are described so beautifully throughout the book - however, I wished the characters would have been just as beautifully described, outside of their personalities.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between Corrin and Ophelia. They both start out wary of each other and then their relationship eventually grows into friendship, and they start to finally like each other. I wish there would have been a little more romance. But I also liked that their relationship didn't overshadow their adventures,
I hope we find out more about the Unmaking in the next book since it didn't really go into depth about it in this book but I also think that's because the book focuses on Corrin and Ophelia, who don't know a whole lot about the Unmaking themselves.
It's usually hit or miss for me with books that have different character POVs - and this book was a hit!
This book has some romance, adventures, sarcasm (which made me laugh) and amazing characters. I couldn't put it down - it had (almost) EVERYTHING that I love in a book. I will definitely be reading the next books.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I finished this book in one day!
Ophelia is a high school student in Texas who is known for standing up to bullies. When she finds a dragon and stands up for him, the dragon bonds himself to Ophelia, which allows his spirit, and magic, to live within her. Because the dragon bonded with her, this also means she is now the High Queen of the Fae in another realm, where magic is everywhere.
Corrin is the Greater Prince of Charassi - he was trying to get the dragon to bond to him so he could be the High King of the Fae. Instead of being bitter about Ophelia being chosen, he helps her. Corrin is an overall honorable and nice guy.
Ophelia and Corrin eventually set out on an adventure to prove to the people she is indeed the High Queen of the Fae. They also learn more about the threat that Charassi is facing.
All the scenes are described so beautifully throughout the book - however, I wished the characters would have been just as beautifully described, outside of their personalities.
I also really enjoyed the dynamic between Corrin and Ophelia. They both start out wary of each other and then their relationship eventually grows into friendship, and they start to finally like each other. I wish there would have been a little more romance. But I also liked that their relationship didn't overshadow their adventures,
I hope we find out more about the Unmaking in the next book since it didn't really go into depth about it in this book but I also think that's because the book focuses on Corrin and Ophelia, who don't know a whole lot about the Unmaking themselves.
It's usually hit or miss for me with books that have different character POVs - and this book was a hit!
This book has some romance, adventures, sarcasm (which made me laugh) and amazing characters. I couldn't put it down - it had (almost) EVERYTHING that I love in a book. I will definitely be reading the next books.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2022
Where to even begin in describing this fantastic fantasy tale, full of dragons! The Bone Crown is the first book introducing the realm of Charassi to the reader and sees our protagonist, Ophelia Monroe thrust into a magical realm and suddenly declared its sovereign, through an extraordinary set of circumstances triggered when she leaps to the defence and aid of a dragon, who really shouldn’t be there! If that wasn’t enough for a human girl to deal with, Ophelia is then caught up in a plot to usurp the one who should be ruling the kingdom, whilst preventing her own execution, saving the realm, and at the same time, getting used to sharing her mind and body with a dragon she has inadvertently bonded to. Which, I can wholeheartedly say, all makes for an exciting read!
The tale of The Bone Crown, weaved by Ava Richardson, captivates the reader from the very beginning, the story moving at a good pace, the pages turned with much enthusiasm as you are drawn further into the world of Charassi. I thoroughly enjoyed and loved the whole bonding process between Ophelia and the Dragon and the exchanges that take place between the two characters.
The reader easily builds an emotional connection, especially with the two main dragons, Sunny and River who come to Ophelia’s aid. Ophelia, herself is a strong and believable character, that is immediately admired and well liked, for her courage and attitude, as she stands up for herself and others. There is a genuine empathy for her by the end of the book, as she finds herself torn between the two worlds, and must decide what is the right thing to do, which inevitably comes at a price.
This is a beautifully written fantasy adventure, with credible dialogue, no issues relating to the editing and so nothing to drag the reader out of the story, and wonderfully developed characters to fall in love with. The ending nicely paves the way for the next book in the series, which I am looking forward to reading.
We award, The Bone Crown, a well deserved 5 stars.
The tale of The Bone Crown, weaved by Ava Richardson, captivates the reader from the very beginning, the story moving at a good pace, the pages turned with much enthusiasm as you are drawn further into the world of Charassi. I thoroughly enjoyed and loved the whole bonding process between Ophelia and the Dragon and the exchanges that take place between the two characters.
The reader easily builds an emotional connection, especially with the two main dragons, Sunny and River who come to Ophelia’s aid. Ophelia, herself is a strong and believable character, that is immediately admired and well liked, for her courage and attitude, as she stands up for herself and others. There is a genuine empathy for her by the end of the book, as she finds herself torn between the two worlds, and must decide what is the right thing to do, which inevitably comes at a price.
This is a beautifully written fantasy adventure, with credible dialogue, no issues relating to the editing and so nothing to drag the reader out of the story, and wonderfully developed characters to fall in love with. The ending nicely paves the way for the next book in the series, which I am looking forward to reading.
We award, The Bone Crown, a well deserved 5 stars.
February 13, 2024
Excellent Start to a New Series
I've listened to several audiobook series by this talented fantasy author and always come away impressed. This book starts a new series about a young American female who becomes involved with the doings and goings-on of a magical realm. A dragon and the prince trying to bond with him to ascend to the throne of the High King are on Earth, the man having brought the fight here to decrease the dragon's powers. The heroine doesn't really understand what's going on, of course, or what she should do. But we’ve seen earlier in the book that she is a strong protector, so she jumps in to defend the dragon. When the dragon’s physical body dies, it chooses to bond his spirit with hers since she had shown it compassion. Then everything changes! The world the prince brings her to is certainly a fascinating world, richly imagined and explained. Because the dragon king’s spirit has bonded with her, by their laws, she is now the High Queen, but of course, others oppose this, directly and indirectly, some wanting to keep power for themselves, others not trusting this could be the right path. So many excellent interactions and lots of great action scenes! The book ends with the heroine and the prince trapped back on Earth after the prince, who has now become her ally, has been betrayed by someone close to him. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series to see how this story continues. If you’ve read or listened to any Ava Richardson fantasy stories, you know she always writes a quality story with excellent characters and an engaging, page-turning plot. This is no exception. Highly recommended.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
I've listened to several audiobook series by this talented fantasy author and always come away impressed. This book starts a new series about a young American female who becomes involved with the doings and goings-on of a magical realm. A dragon and the prince trying to bond with him to ascend to the throne of the High King are on Earth, the man having brought the fight here to decrease the dragon's powers. The heroine doesn't really understand what's going on, of course, or what she should do. But we’ve seen earlier in the book that she is a strong protector, so she jumps in to defend the dragon. When the dragon’s physical body dies, it chooses to bond his spirit with hers since she had shown it compassion. Then everything changes! The world the prince brings her to is certainly a fascinating world, richly imagined and explained. Because the dragon king’s spirit has bonded with her, by their laws, she is now the High Queen, but of course, others oppose this, directly and indirectly, some wanting to keep power for themselves, others not trusting this could be the right path. So many excellent interactions and lots of great action scenes! The book ends with the heroine and the prince trapped back on Earth after the prince, who has now become her ally, has been betrayed by someone close to him. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series to see how this story continues. If you’ve read or listened to any Ava Richardson fantasy stories, you know she always writes a quality story with excellent characters and an engaging, page-turning plot. This is no exception. Highly recommended.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
August 30, 2022
I love delving into a world Ava creates, always unique, always exciting! This book is the start to this series and is what I've come to expect from this author, an easy to follow storyline, a way which brings the story to life and show how resilient mere human beings are! I say this very tongue in cheek, merely because all Ava's books feature Dragons and everyone knows Dragons are a superior species, right? Hmmm.... Ophelia loathes bullies, she stands up for those who struggle, which unfortunately tends to land her in hot water! The need to protect is so strong in Ophelia that when she stumbles across a dragon, injured and at the mercy of a man, she doesn't think, she reacts. This encounter is vivid, depicting her disbelief at seeing a "fictional" creature and her instinct to aid. Needless to say, things get a little out of hand and Ophelia finds herself in a situation she has no control over. She's suddenly no mere mortal, which in itself brings a wealth of problems! From suspicion from the Fae, to others who want her dead and an uncontrolled magic she's aquired. I love the Dragons, both Sunny and River but especially River, who slowly warms up to the humans. As the mystery surrounding what has befallen the Fae unravels, Ophelia and Corrin face many dangers. Ophelia's reactions and her very modern way of expressing herself is so refreshing and completely endearing to Corrin. Loved it! Her innate sense of right stands her in good stead as she and Corrin seek aid, only to discover another plot that was brewing in their absence, with an added twist. And with Corrin, Ophelia and River stranded on earth with no means to return to Charassie, I'm longing for book 2!
October 1, 2025
Was, wenn man plötzlich in eine magische Welt gezogen wird und deren Königin sein soll? Genau das passiert Ophelia, als sie eines Tages unwissend einen Drachen im Hinterhof der Schule beschützt. Ihr gegenüber steht Prinz Corrin, der nun, nachdem sich Ophelia mit dem Drachen verbunden hat, keine andere Möglichkeit sieht, als sie mit in seine Welt zu nehmen.
Der Anfang der Geschichte hat mir gut gefallen. Ophelia wird als eine Person mit einem großen Gerechtigkeitsbedürfnis dargestellt und genau diese Eigenschaft bringt sie in die Lage. Auch wie sie unwissend in eine neue Welt geschmissen wurde und diese nn regieren soll, war mal eine Abwechslung zu anderen Büchern.
Doch nun das negative: Ich fand die Story leider sehr blande und eintönig. Man reist zwar mit Ophelia und Corrin durch die Länder, aber es ist mir unverständlich, wie Ophelia von einem auf den anderen Tag zu einer solch gepriesenen Monarchin wird. Überall wird sie geliebt und gefeiert. Aber dabei ist sie ein Teenager, der gestern noch nichts von dieser Welt wusste. Ich will jetzt nicht sagen, dass sie nicht regieren soll, aber eher, dass es mehr als Empathie braucht, um ein Königreich zu führen.
Dann hatte ich das Gefühl, dass ich Ophelia, obwohl sie die Hauptperson ist, gefühlt gar nicht kenne. Ich weiß nicht was sie mag und wie sie tickt. Da war sogar die Person Corrin besser charakterisiert.
Das Ende kam auch für mich etwas überraschend und ich fand es gelungen. trotzdem weiß ich nicht, ob ich das nächste Buch lesen werde. Trotzdem danke ich Net-Galley für das Hörbuch im Austausch für meine ehrliche Meinung.
Der Anfang der Geschichte hat mir gut gefallen. Ophelia wird als eine Person mit einem großen Gerechtigkeitsbedürfnis dargestellt und genau diese Eigenschaft bringt sie in die Lage. Auch wie sie unwissend in eine neue Welt geschmissen wurde und diese nn regieren soll, war mal eine Abwechslung zu anderen Büchern.
Doch nun das negative: Ich fand die Story leider sehr blande und eintönig. Man reist zwar mit Ophelia und Corrin durch die Länder, aber es ist mir unverständlich, wie Ophelia von einem auf den anderen Tag zu einer solch gepriesenen Monarchin wird. Überall wird sie geliebt und gefeiert. Aber dabei ist sie ein Teenager, der gestern noch nichts von dieser Welt wusste. Ich will jetzt nicht sagen, dass sie nicht regieren soll, aber eher, dass es mehr als Empathie braucht, um ein Königreich zu führen.
Dann hatte ich das Gefühl, dass ich Ophelia, obwohl sie die Hauptperson ist, gefühlt gar nicht kenne. Ich weiß nicht was sie mag und wie sie tickt. Da war sogar die Person Corrin besser charakterisiert.
Das Ende kam auch für mich etwas überraschend und ich fand es gelungen. trotzdem weiß ich nicht, ob ich das nächste Buch lesen werde. Trotzdem danke ich Net-Galley für das Hörbuch im Austausch für meine ehrliche Meinung.
March 11, 2026
EEEEEEP! I'm so mad this sat on my TBR this long. It was SOO GOOD. Especially since lately, I've not been loving anything in the YA field.
But this one restored my faith in YA.
Ophelia is amazing. She is smart, brave and will put bullies in their place. Even if it is against a Fae Prince and a Dragon. Then that said Dragon bonds her and poof she is now the High Queen.
Welp. Corrin isn't thrilled to not have bonded the Monarch dragon, he doesn't deny Ophelia her rightful place. He is kind, stands by her side and really has all the qualities a royal person should have which I loved about him.
When Ophelia wakes up in a new realm, she has very little time to get the run down of things before she is to be crowned Queen in the next hour. Punch a bully, bond a dragon and become Queen isn't what Ophelia may have thought the day would go, but here we are.
Ophelia and Corrin will have a lot to do in order to prove she is bonded. Keep the crown and her life. They are great together. The way her bonded dragon Sunny comes to care for her and then gaining the trust of another is such a great thing for them. However, returning home after their journey didn't go as expected.
Did I devour this book to the point I hadn't notice the day go by? Yes. Do I need the rest of the books like yesterday? Also, Yes.
I loved this book and can't wait to continue this series. So worth the read for anyone who loves fantasy, dragons, magic, fae and more!
But this one restored my faith in YA.
Ophelia is amazing. She is smart, brave and will put bullies in their place. Even if it is against a Fae Prince and a Dragon. Then that said Dragon bonds her and poof she is now the High Queen.
Welp. Corrin isn't thrilled to not have bonded the Monarch dragon, he doesn't deny Ophelia her rightful place. He is kind, stands by her side and really has all the qualities a royal person should have which I loved about him.
When Ophelia wakes up in a new realm, she has very little time to get the run down of things before she is to be crowned Queen in the next hour. Punch a bully, bond a dragon and become Queen isn't what Ophelia may have thought the day would go, but here we are.
Ophelia and Corrin will have a lot to do in order to prove she is bonded. Keep the crown and her life. They are great together. The way her bonded dragon Sunny comes to care for her and then gaining the trust of another is such a great thing for them. However, returning home after their journey didn't go as expected.
Did I devour this book to the point I hadn't notice the day go by? Yes. Do I need the rest of the books like yesterday? Also, Yes.
I loved this book and can't wait to continue this series. So worth the read for anyone who loves fantasy, dragons, magic, fae and more!
July 31, 2022
This is the first book in the Charassi’s Fae Queen series, surrounding a strong female character Ophelia who believes everyone is equal and takes that with her as she discovers that there are other realms. She accidentally and humorously bonds a snarky, angry dragon who grew on me the more I discovered. It is exciting to watch the characters grow, learn, and make mistakes along the way. Ava Richardson does a great job world building and providing detail within the flow of the plot and storyline.
This is a multi-POV novel, which normally I am not a fan of however in this instance it works well, keeping my interest as it transitions and shows the various motivations for the characters. If you are looking for romance, this appears to be a slow burn and will have to wait for follow on in the series to see where it develops in future books.
Overall, I really enjoyed the overall story and I can’t wait for the next book. There were times that the punctuation usage was distracting, but the use of dashes lessened after the first few chapters and started to flow much better as I read it. There were great descriptions the majority of the time, although there were a few instances where I could have used more detail to fully understand the character responses or scenes.
#TheBoneCrown
Note, I did read an advanced copy.
This is a multi-POV novel, which normally I am not a fan of however in this instance it works well, keeping my interest as it transitions and shows the various motivations for the characters. If you are looking for romance, this appears to be a slow burn and will have to wait for follow on in the series to see where it develops in future books.
Overall, I really enjoyed the overall story and I can’t wait for the next book. There were times that the punctuation usage was distracting, but the use of dashes lessened after the first few chapters and started to flow much better as I read it. There were great descriptions the majority of the time, although there were a few instances where I could have used more detail to fully understand the character responses or scenes.
#TheBoneCrown
Note, I did read an advanced copy.
September 17, 2022
Solid 4 stars. This was really good! It was a nice change from the gritty and dark fantasies that are common.
I loved the two main characters, and I think they’re set up to have a lot of good character development. I really like that Corrin isn’t bitter about Ophelia bonding the dragon and becoming queen. He doesn’t resent her, and any negative feelings are towards himself for not accomplishing what he’s been working towards for a century. He’s not a cookie-cutter surly and moody MMC.
While there is clearly some romance building between the two main characters I love that they’re forming a friendship first, and not letting angst get in the way of accomplishing their goals.
The magic system is super cool, and the world building is turning out to be unique as well.
And finally, I really appreciate the disability representation which I find is sorely lacking in the fantasy genre. While neither of the two main characters are disabled, the author makes a point to show that the Charassi realm is built to accommodate disabilities, rather than making them magically disappear. I got so excited when the taxi driver was a wood-nymph with a bronze prosthetic and we met pixies that have kingdom-funded prosthetic wings.
I loved the two main characters, and I think they’re set up to have a lot of good character development. I really like that Corrin isn’t bitter about Ophelia bonding the dragon and becoming queen. He doesn’t resent her, and any negative feelings are towards himself for not accomplishing what he’s been working towards for a century. He’s not a cookie-cutter surly and moody MMC.
While there is clearly some romance building between the two main characters I love that they’re forming a friendship first, and not letting angst get in the way of accomplishing their goals.
The magic system is super cool, and the world building is turning out to be unique as well.
And finally, I really appreciate the disability representation which I find is sorely lacking in the fantasy genre. While neither of the two main characters are disabled, the author makes a point to show that the Charassi realm is built to accommodate disabilities, rather than making them magically disappear. I got so excited when the taxi driver was a wood-nymph with a bronze prosthetic and we met pixies that have kingdom-funded prosthetic wings.
September 23, 2023
What in the Wattpad??????
I’m not a Wattpad girlie (my allegiance lies primarily with ao3 and as an ff.net/LJ veteran, I’m obligated to mention them, too), however Bone Crown very much felt like it stepped right off the website. I have nothing against that — you go, author, get that money bag — yet it creates an expectation of a certain level of quality of storytelling, writing, and editing.
I started the book with an open mind and hand-waved away the little, pesky issues that sprouted quicker than mushrooms after a summer rain. However, 5% into the book, I read “It looked like a light skin abrasion with a contusion—a bruise—was forming.” and realised: it’s going to be one of those. I have not been yanked harder by the lapels of my squirming soul into a cringe highlight compilation since I dug up (and embarrassingly read) my old Sword Art Online fanfic.
But it’s fine, I told myself, I can do this—this is an isekai, I love isekais, and at the very least Ophelia is not a potato-kun. But then, the best thing happened: D R A G O N S. I take everything mean I said about this book.
Overall, enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-ARC copy of this book, in exchange for this honest review.
I’m not a Wattpad girlie (my allegiance lies primarily with ao3 and as an ff.net/LJ veteran, I’m obligated to mention them, too), however Bone Crown very much felt like it stepped right off the website. I have nothing against that — you go, author, get that money bag — yet it creates an expectation of a certain level of quality of storytelling, writing, and editing.
I started the book with an open mind and hand-waved away the little, pesky issues that sprouted quicker than mushrooms after a summer rain. However, 5% into the book, I read “It looked like a light skin abrasion with a contusion—a bruise—was forming.” and realised: it’s going to be one of those. I have not been yanked harder by the lapels of my squirming soul into a cringe highlight compilation since I dug up (and embarrassingly read) my old Sword Art Online fanfic.
But it’s fine, I told myself, I can do this—this is an isekai, I love isekais, and at the very least Ophelia is not a potato-kun. But then, the best thing happened: D R A G O N S. I take everything mean I said about this book.
Overall, enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an e-ARC copy of this book, in exchange for this honest review.
July 29, 2022
The plot looks like a loose variation of Alice in Wonderland on the surface. You have a misfit beauty who crosses into a world of fantasy while in the persuit of an animal of sorts, only to realize that in this world she is an unwanted intruder that's drawn a rather large amount of scrutiny, especially from the ruling or would-be ruling party. Flash forward, Alice wakes up and we find ourselves back in the "real world", similar to this book where out luck-lacking (or luck abundant?) heroine finds herself back in the good ole homeworld.
If you've read "Dance with the Fae Prince" by Elise Kova, you will see similar themes with a stolen crown, misguided attempts to save something that you had no knowledge of, evil forces with an agenda to push, and a plucky miss who just wants to make it to the end of the day...
If you like fae, dragons, and humans' misguided attempts to do the right thing - this book is for you. A solid 4.5 star read and a pretty great first read for this author. I look forward to seeing more of her work.
[I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.]
If you've read "Dance with the Fae Prince" by Elise Kova, you will see similar themes with a stolen crown, misguided attempts to save something that you had no knowledge of, evil forces with an agenda to push, and a plucky miss who just wants to make it to the end of the day...
If you like fae, dragons, and humans' misguided attempts to do the right thing - this book is for you. A solid 4.5 star read and a pretty great first read for this author. I look forward to seeing more of her work.
[I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.]
August 29, 2025
Well, this book has dragons… the girl is in high school yet, so this is a YA… not much my thing nowadays, but… I like the books of this author, and with 1 credit, I got 6 books, so… yeah, looks like a good deal. I only need a book to keep me motivated enough to jump rope for one hour …
Poor girl, she wants to go to some pre-med school …
Holy fuck!! If I were the fae prince? I could kill her only by spite. He passed centuries studying and hunting the dragon monarch so he could be High King, and then??? A random girl goes before him and bonds with the dragon, then turns into the High Queen … damn, in his place, I would absolutely kill her because if the dragon wasn’t going to be mine? He was going to be no one else. Yeah, I’m sure egoistic, but fuck!!!! Centuries? I’m frustrated in his behalf.
Damn, this is what I call world building!!! Sooooo rich of details and soooooo many races!!!! Holy damn, now we have zombie ants… like the ones from The Last of Us, fuck this is scary and cool.
Holy hell, this book was fun!!! I just finished and will begin the next one IMMEDIATELY!!! Poor Corrin, so many betrayals…
August 3, 2022
Ophelia is just a simple girl from Texas who likes to punch bullies in the nose at least once a month or so. She discovers a boy in the forest who is hunting a dragon. As she steps in to save the dying dragon Monarch he bonds to her. Now she is whisk away to another realm to carry out her duties as the new High Queen of the Fae.
Being bonded to an angry, snarky dead dragon isn't easy especially when his/their powers are uncontrollable.
Greater Prince Corrin and Ophelia High Queen of the Fae begin their journey back to the realm of faes, nymphs, dragons, priestesses, pixies and other creatures. Along the way Corrin, Ophelia and River encounter not only the Unmaking. (zombie like creatures) but betrayal within the palace.
It ends in a cliffy but so worth the wait!
Can't wait for next installments The Usurper's Throne and Dragon Tongue!!
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Being bonded to an angry, snarky dead dragon isn't easy especially when his/their powers are uncontrollable.
Greater Prince Corrin and Ophelia High Queen of the Fae begin their journey back to the realm of faes, nymphs, dragons, priestesses, pixies and other creatures. Along the way Corrin, Ophelia and River encounter not only the Unmaking. (zombie like creatures) but betrayal within the palace.
It ends in a cliffy but so worth the wait!
Can't wait for next installments The Usurper's Throne and Dragon Tongue!!
Thank you Hidden Gems and the author for a digital copy. Read and reviewed voluntarily and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 26, 2022
A magical atmospheric YA read!
Ophelia is a regular Texas girl, but when she discovers a boy hunting a dragon in the forest, she must step in to save the dragon’s life and, in doing so, is ripped away from her world. Before the dragon dies, he bonds his soul to hers, making her the new fae queen. The problem for Ophelia is the dragon hunter is the prince of the fae, and now she has stolen his chance to become the true ruler. She is ripped away to the home of the fae by the prince and forced to take on the responsibilities of a queen. But soon, she finds not everyone wants her to rule, and even worse, there are dark forces at work in this world, and her return as queen may mean ruin for them all.
The book was well written and paced. This reminded me of the Kiss of Deception with world-building and fantastical descriptions. I loved the descriptions of the creatures living in this world and the magical elements.
Triggers: violence
Ophelia is a regular Texas girl, but when she discovers a boy hunting a dragon in the forest, she must step in to save the dragon’s life and, in doing so, is ripped away from her world. Before the dragon dies, he bonds his soul to hers, making her the new fae queen. The problem for Ophelia is the dragon hunter is the prince of the fae, and now she has stolen his chance to become the true ruler. She is ripped away to the home of the fae by the prince and forced to take on the responsibilities of a queen. But soon, she finds not everyone wants her to rule, and even worse, there are dark forces at work in this world, and her return as queen may mean ruin for them all.
The book was well written and paced. This reminded me of the Kiss of Deception with world-building and fantastical descriptions. I loved the descriptions of the creatures living in this world and the magical elements.
Triggers: violence
August 2, 2022
Ophelia was just a teenage student with a calling for justice and a big curiosity about the boy (and she thought she saw a dragon) across the street from her school. After serving her detention, she went right over to check it out and got herself bonded with a dead dragon while defending it from the boy who turns out to be the crown prince and takes her through a portal to Charassi, where he says she is now the ruler by their law. After being crowned with the artifact of the Bone Crown she sets out on a grand adventure to prove that the dragon within, Sunny, is indeed still the Dragon Monarch which makes her Queen of the Fae. Traveling with Prince Corrin through the strange land with pixies and nymphs of all kinds, arriving by sea creatures to the land of the dragons, she learns to work her dragon's magic! I love a good YA book but am not a fantasy lover. However, I am waiting on the edge of my seat for the rest of Ava Richardson's Fae Queen Adventure. Recommended.
April 11, 2026
Ava Richardson delivers a fast-paced and engaging young adult fantasy in The Bone Crown, blending dragon lore, fae politics, and an unexpected royal destiny. The story begins with an extraordinary premise when a dragon breaches the human world and bonds with Ophelia Monroe, an ordinary Texas student whose life is instantly transformed. Thrust into the realm of Charassi, Ophelia discovers she has been named Queen of the Fae, a position that comes with immense power, danger, and political tension.
Richardson builds a vibrant fantasy world filled with magical intrigue, shifting alliances, and hidden threats, while also exploring Ophelia’s struggle to control her new abilities and understand her role in a fractured realm. The dynamic between Ophelia and Prince Corrin adds emotional tension and romantic intrigue to the journey. The Bone Crown is an accessible and entertaining fantasy adventure that will appeal to fans of dragon-centered YA and fae mythology.
Richardson builds a vibrant fantasy world filled with magical intrigue, shifting alliances, and hidden threats, while also exploring Ophelia’s struggle to control her new abilities and understand her role in a fractured realm. The dynamic between Ophelia and Prince Corrin adds emotional tension and romantic intrigue to the journey. The Bone Crown is an accessible and entertaining fantasy adventure that will appeal to fans of dragon-centered YA and fae mythology.
August 14, 2022
Dragon's and portals to other lands, what not to love?
Another great start to a new series.
Ophelia has issues when she sees someone being a bully. She is always getting in trouble because she defends anyone who is being bullied. So what happens when she comes to the defense of a dragon? That dragon decides to bond her, which starts a series of events that change her life forever.
She is immediately dragged through a portal to another realm and told that she is now a queen. But this is only the beginning of her adventure, because now she has to prove herself or die if she doesn't return to her world. The only problem is the portal cannot be opened because the decive has gone missing.
If you like dragons, Fae of all sorts and unique worlds then this is a good book to read. It even has the start of innocent romance.
Another great start to a new series.
Ophelia has issues when she sees someone being a bully. She is always getting in trouble because she defends anyone who is being bullied. So what happens when she comes to the defense of a dragon? That dragon decides to bond her, which starts a series of events that change her life forever.
She is immediately dragged through a portal to another realm and told that she is now a queen. But this is only the beginning of her adventure, because now she has to prove herself or die if she doesn't return to her world. The only problem is the portal cannot be opened because the decive has gone missing.
If you like dragons, Fae of all sorts and unique worlds then this is a good book to read. It even has the start of innocent romance.
July 28, 2022
|Intrigue by the bucketful!
I am hoping that this is the first of a new series. The story contains all my favourites - humans, fae, and dragons, to name but a few. We start and finish on earth, but in between, we are in pure fantasy land, where anything can and does happen. Both humour and tragedy run throughout the book with a healthy dose of intrigue and betrayal. The interaction between human, fae and dragon is different to the traditional dragon tale, which makes the story both intriguing and gripping.
I loved the way the story unfolded with its many twists and turns. If you are looking for a sta series with a different slant from the traditional dragon tale, then this definitely is the one for you. I hope the second book in the series comes quickly.
I am hoping that this is the first of a new series. The story contains all my favourites - humans, fae, and dragons, to name but a few. We start and finish on earth, but in between, we are in pure fantasy land, where anything can and does happen. Both humour and tragedy run throughout the book with a healthy dose of intrigue and betrayal. The interaction between human, fae and dragon is different to the traditional dragon tale, which makes the story both intriguing and gripping.
I loved the way the story unfolded with its many twists and turns. If you are looking for a sta series with a different slant from the traditional dragon tale, then this definitely is the one for you. I hope the second book in the series comes quickly.
September 3, 2022
As a fan of Ava Richardson, I am so excited to see her with a new series set in Charissa. This is a real departure from her previous Ragond series and it is fantastic. The story is a unique culmination of dragon lore and fae fantasy telling. Orphelia is a misunderstood teen still struggling with her mother's passing. She encounters a golden dragon who bonds with her as he dies. The bonding results in her becoming the high queen of Charissa, a land of fae, nymphs, pixies and dragons. However her arrival is met with distrust and she is left to deal with proving her claim to the throne to avoid execution. I am so excited for this series. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2023
Ava Richardson starts a fun tale of an interesting high school girl, Ophelia Monroe, who likes to punch bullies. Kept late after school, she spots the impossible, a dragon. As she gets closer, she finds a man trying to kill the dragon. Defending the dragon somehow gets the whole dragon soul in her head. Prince Corrin of the Fae had tricked the Dragon to our Earth so that he could bond with the dragon and become true king of the Fae. In his mind Ophelia is the true queen of the Fae, despite being human. So he brings her to the fae realm and crowns her with The Bone Crown ( paper from Relay Publishing). Alas the other Fae dispute her rule, and she is soon on the run with Corrin. Nice beginning.
July 27, 2022
The Bone Crown sets another jewel in the coronet of Ava Richardson, Queen of dragon riders. Once again she has created a breathtaking tale of fantasy and coming-of-age. Through the creation of a new and fantastic world where she uses her old strings and creates new twists and turns. Yet all the while showing her characters discovering who they are and what they can become if they can overcome the challenges before them. I now eagerly await the next installment in this town and see you how the story of The Bone Crown will continue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2022
Another can't put it down by Ava Richardson. A little different but great read. Ophelia is whisked into another world as she becomes bonded with a dying dragon and finds she is now Queen of the Fae. But not being accepted by many she must validate the claim and continues with some unbelievable adventures but thankfully has gained a friend as well as direction from the bonded dragon now living in her mind. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book. Again Ava Richardson amazes me with the continuous stories that never fail to please!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2022
Good enough to get me to buy it after the sample...but not good enough to keep me interested past the 1/3 mark. Everything is painfully blunt. It is very YA and not even a very good YA at that. I scrolled to the end, and it turns out the very obvious thing did in fact play out as it obviously would. It could have at least tried to be a bit more subtle.
Also, not sure why YA keeps trying to tell us that teenagers should rule countries. Especially ones that have zero training in anything useful. Not a new problem, by any means, but while even I was not smart enough to realize it back in my teen years, it shall forever remain a really fucking stupid idea.
Dnf'd @40%
Also, not sure why YA keeps trying to tell us that teenagers should rule countries. Especially ones that have zero training in anything useful. Not a new problem, by any means, but while even I was not smart enough to realize it back in my teen years, it shall forever remain a really fucking stupid idea.
Dnf'd @40%
July 11, 2023
The protagonist is a teenager, and if I'd stopped to think about that, I probably wouldn't have started the book. The writing has some skill, but somehow the first chapter doesn't impress me, even though it introduces the main character in a reasonable way. But the plot is interesting, the two main characters get themselves into troubles you're not sure how they'll escape, and we meet some interesting folk along the way, the more important of whom start to change as they experience significant events. The book ends without solving most of the problems, but somehow it feels like a not-too-terrible juncture at which to end the volume.
July 29, 2022
This was my first book from this author and my first book about dragons. What can I say? It blew my mind!
The writing style, the description of characters, their depth and story development are wonderful. I loved the world building and the atmosphere of the book.
I've finished reading some time ago and I'm so happy that this is only the beginning of the series! I definitely need to read all the books in the series when they come out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The writing style, the description of characters, their depth and story development are wonderful. I loved the world building and the atmosphere of the book.
I've finished reading some time ago and I'm so happy that this is only the beginning of the series! I definitely need to read all the books in the series when they come out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2022
Ophelia is living in Texas and comes across a boy hunting a dragon. She saves the dragon but a at cost to herself. The dragon binds to her before it dies, and she becomes Queen of the Fae. She is swept into another world and sees the danger she faces because of her being Queen. Will she survive in this new world?
This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. It's a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for Bad Boy Update.
This is a great story that will captivate you from beginning to end. This is a well written and very entertaining story. It's a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for Bad Boy Update.
August 30, 2022
I could not get enough of this book, I particularly loved the fresh take on a modern female protagonist who stood up and called out bullying, sexism and the underlying discussion on social attitudes towards people faced with disabilities.
I will definitely be continuing on with this series and can't wait to see where the story goes within the next two books.
If you are a fan of the ACOTAR series then you will love this.
Thank you to Netgalley & Relay Publishing for providing this ARC for review.
All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
I will definitely be continuing on with this series and can't wait to see where the story goes within the next two books.
If you are a fan of the ACOTAR series then you will love this.
Thank you to Netgalley & Relay Publishing for providing this ARC for review.
All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
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