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Blood & Flame Saga #1
Dragon's Kiss
Every month, the great black dragon comes.
Every month, a child is snatched.
That's all the village of Kalma knows.
But Semra was one of those children, and she knows the truth: there is a dragonlord in the mountain, raising the children into his own personal syndicate of assassins.
When seventeen-year-old Semra learns they aren’t fighting evil but are in fact evil themselves, she risks everything to expose the dragonlord. As one young, nobody assassin against the king's security and an army of her former colleagues bent on her destruction, Semra must uncover the truth and save the royal family before the dragonlord rips them apart and plunges the kingdom into war.
Every month, a child is snatched.
That's all the village of Kalma knows.
But Semra was one of those children, and she knows the truth: there is a dragonlord in the mountain, raising the children into his own personal syndicate of assassins.
When seventeen-year-old Semra learns they aren’t fighting evil but are in fact evil themselves, she risks everything to expose the dragonlord. As one young, nobody assassin against the king's security and an army of her former colleagues bent on her destruction, Semra must uncover the truth and save the royal family before the dragonlord rips them apart and plunges the kingdom into war.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
827 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
March 21, 2023
Dragon's Kiss by E. A. Winters is an easy 5 stars for me. This book was gripping from the start when we learn about Semra's job as an assassin, stolen from her childhood village and trained to kill.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with colour. This book is a journey of courage, complete with a strong female protagonist, clean romance, and best of all, dragons! I couldn't put it down. I would read it again. This is exactly the kind of book I have been missing in my life, and now I have it.
Special thank you to the author for writing a book (series) that's clean, beautiful, and addictive.
Gripping, heartfelt, and brimming with colour. This book is a journey of courage, complete with a strong female protagonist, clean romance, and best of all, dragons! I couldn't put it down. I would read it again. This is exactly the kind of book I have been missing in my life, and now I have it.
Special thank you to the author for writing a book (series) that's clean, beautiful, and addictive.
May 27, 2024
Clean YA Fantasy
3.5 Stars ✨
“The mark of the dragon’s kiss is an honor bestowed by a dragon when a person saves its life,” Dahyu explained. “The dragon binds itself to its savior for as long as they live, and the magic of the mark keeps the two connected in a unique bond that can never be broken.”
Every month a black dragon goes out into the villages of Kalma, and snatches a child. Semra is one of those children. Raised by the Dragonlord in the mountain, and taught all the ways of being an assassin since the age of four, she was told her family got rid of her because they didn’t love her. But Semra has learned the truth, they are not fighting evil, they are the evil. She takes it upon herself to get the truth out and try and help save the kingdom the Dragonlord is trying to destroy. But can one young assassin go up against the black dragon and his lord?
Dragons Kiss was a fun ride! From the first chapter, it drew me in. It started off with action and it didn’t really stop. I enjoyed the banter between characters, and the mystery surrounding the plot. My only complaint were the names. My brain didn’t like having to read them. They were cool - just so unique, I would have to think about each one before I read it- which by the end, I had my own nicknames for each. The content was clean, including mild violence (we are dealing with assassins) with a slow burn romance beginning 🤔 maybe. Definitely curious to see where this goes.
3.5 Stars ✨
“The mark of the dragon’s kiss is an honor bestowed by a dragon when a person saves its life,” Dahyu explained. “The dragon binds itself to its savior for as long as they live, and the magic of the mark keeps the two connected in a unique bond that can never be broken.”
Every month a black dragon goes out into the villages of Kalma, and snatches a child. Semra is one of those children. Raised by the Dragonlord in the mountain, and taught all the ways of being an assassin since the age of four, she was told her family got rid of her because they didn’t love her. But Semra has learned the truth, they are not fighting evil, they are the evil. She takes it upon herself to get the truth out and try and help save the kingdom the Dragonlord is trying to destroy. But can one young assassin go up against the black dragon and his lord?
Dragons Kiss was a fun ride! From the first chapter, it drew me in. It started off with action and it didn’t really stop. I enjoyed the banter between characters, and the mystery surrounding the plot. My only complaint were the names. My brain didn’t like having to read them. They were cool - just so unique, I would have to think about each one before I read it- which by the end, I had my own nicknames for each. The content was clean, including mild violence (we are dealing with assassins) with a slow burn romance beginning 🤔 maybe. Definitely curious to see where this goes.
October 19, 2024
3 stars
this was a very good book and i def enjoyed it, buttttt i have no clue what happened, thus the three stars.
This is how id imagine fourth wing would be if there was no spice and the fmc is an assasian.
frtc
this was a very good book and i def enjoyed it, buttttt i have no clue what happened, thus the three stars.
This is how id imagine fourth wing would be if there was no spice and the fmc is an assasian.
frtc
January 8, 2025
4.25 stars! This book was amazing. If you want a super clean ya fantasy with dragons and assassins this is exactly the book for you. Semra figuring out that she and her group of assassins she was raised with aren't actually fighting evil but are the evil themselves was such an interesting story set up and I really enjoyed where her story arc goes from there. The group of friends that she finds and the adventures that they go on to try to stop the man who trained all of these assassins.
The fight sequences were really good. There was just enough detail for you to know what was going on but it never felt gory in the slightest. Which is impressive given that the main characters are assassins. One of the characters tells Semra that like her job is to kill but her inclination is to life. And I think that's a good way to build an assassin character and still be able to root for her because she's not morally gray. She wants to do what's right; she was just tricked into believing that was different than it is. The beginnings of romance were really fun. I also loved the dragon and Semra’s connection with her!! I look forward to seeing where that goes in the next books. I did guess one of the plot twists but I wasn't upset about it which is rare. Like if I guess a plot twist I'm usually frustrated but it made sense why the main character didn't figure it out and the way she found out was really cool.
I'm a bit surprised that even though I don't really have anything negative to say that I didn’t give this a 5 stars. I think I just didn't super connect to the characters. Most of my favorite books those that are five stars I come to love the characters and this one I really enjoyed the story and the characters but they weren’t the best thing I’ve ever seen but I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read more books in this series and I wouldn't be surprised about later book is five stars.
The fight sequences were really good. There was just enough detail for you to know what was going on but it never felt gory in the slightest. Which is impressive given that the main characters are assassins. One of the characters tells Semra that like her job is to kill but her inclination is to life. And I think that's a good way to build an assassin character and still be able to root for her because she's not morally gray. She wants to do what's right; she was just tricked into believing that was different than it is. The beginnings of romance were really fun. I also loved the dragon and Semra’s connection with her!! I look forward to seeing where that goes in the next books. I did guess one of the plot twists but I wasn't upset about it which is rare. Like if I guess a plot twist I'm usually frustrated but it made sense why the main character didn't figure it out and the way she found out was really cool.
I'm a bit surprised that even though I don't really have anything negative to say that I didn’t give this a 5 stars. I think I just didn't super connect to the characters. Most of my favorite books those that are five stars I come to love the characters and this one I really enjoyed the story and the characters but they weren’t the best thing I’ve ever seen but I really enjoyed it and I can't wait to read more books in this series and I wouldn't be surprised about later book is five stars.
September 28, 2022
First, thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the premise of this book (somewhat of an Eragon x Divergent mix) and enjoyed the characters attempting to right wrongs they'd committed while blind to the truth. Semra is a very strong-willed character, and I love books about dragons.
However, I struggled to finish it. Even though the main characters are 17-19, it reads very much like middle-grade with very direct dialogue, pretty simplistic characters that were either good or bad, and a lot of internal monologuing the main character to basically spell out the plot twists to readers. Dialogue dragged down a lot of action, witty lines didn't really hit, and the characters blurred together.
It is well written, just didn't excite me.
I liked the premise of this book (somewhat of an Eragon x Divergent mix) and enjoyed the characters attempting to right wrongs they'd committed while blind to the truth. Semra is a very strong-willed character, and I love books about dragons.
However, I struggled to finish it. Even though the main characters are 17-19, it reads very much like middle-grade with very direct dialogue, pretty simplistic characters that were either good or bad, and a lot of internal monologuing the main character to basically spell out the plot twists to readers. Dialogue dragged down a lot of action, witty lines didn't really hit, and the characters blurred together.
It is well written, just didn't excite me.
February 24, 2025
Dragons, assassins, and romance.
I was expecting a little more romance, and was disappointed there wasn’t a direct love interest. I think I know who’s supposed to be the main one, but out of the two options, I liked the one who probably doesn’t end up with the girl.
I enjoyed the adventure and fighting, the author did a great job with writing those scenes and giving enough detail without getting graphic.
Now I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I was hoping, but I still think it’s a great read, and definitely a clean YA novel that I think younger readers will love.
Content:
Assassins, killing, blood, violence, death
I was expecting a little more romance, and was disappointed there wasn’t a direct love interest. I think I know who’s supposed to be the main one, but out of the two options, I liked the one who probably doesn’t end up with the girl.
I enjoyed the adventure and fighting, the author did a great job with writing those scenes and giving enough detail without getting graphic.
Now I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I was hoping, but I still think it’s a great read, and definitely a clean YA novel that I think younger readers will love.
Content:
Assassins, killing, blood, violence, death
February 5, 2025
It was okay, I loved how it was a clean fantasy… but I felt a lack of an attachment to the characters. And the plot needed a spark… something more interesting to keep me going.
I like the concept though! :)
I like the concept though! :)
September 27, 2022
I just finished the arc on this book. The banter, the action and the plot are great! It’s clean fantasy meaning no spice HOWEVER… there was some tension starting and romance seeming to bloom. Lots of fighting, blood and who can forget… DRAGONS! Can’t wait to read the second one! Great quick read :)
October 17, 2022
Dragon's Kiss
(Blood & Flame Saga Book 1)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
If You Enjoy....
🐉Action
🐉Royals
🐉Dragons
🐉Assians
🐉Fast Paced Stories
🐉Clean Fantasy
Then I recommend looking into this one!
I really enjoyed the characters, story & looking forward to book 2!
Pub Date: Oct 17
Thank You to the author for sending me an ARC copy! All thoughts, opinions & review are my own 📚❤️🐉
Book Synopsis: 📖
" Every month, the great black dragon comes.
Every month, a child is snatched.
That's all the village of Kalma knows.
But Semra was one of those children, and she knows the truth: there is a dragonlord in the mountain, raising the children into his own personal syndicate of assassins.
When seventeen-year-old Semra learns they aren’t fighting evil but are in fact evil themselves, she risks everything to expose the dragonlord. As one young, nobody assassin against the king's security and an army of her former colleagues bent on her destruction, Semra must uncover the truth and save the royal family before the dragonlord rips them apart and plunges the kingdom into war."
(Blood & Flame Saga Book 1)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
If You Enjoy....
🐉Action
🐉Royals
🐉Dragons
🐉Assians
🐉Fast Paced Stories
🐉Clean Fantasy
Then I recommend looking into this one!
I really enjoyed the characters, story & looking forward to book 2!
Pub Date: Oct 17
Thank You to the author for sending me an ARC copy! All thoughts, opinions & review are my own 📚❤️🐉
Book Synopsis: 📖
" Every month, the great black dragon comes.
Every month, a child is snatched.
That's all the village of Kalma knows.
But Semra was one of those children, and she knows the truth: there is a dragonlord in the mountain, raising the children into his own personal syndicate of assassins.
When seventeen-year-old Semra learns they aren’t fighting evil but are in fact evil themselves, she risks everything to expose the dragonlord. As one young, nobody assassin against the king's security and an army of her former colleagues bent on her destruction, Semra must uncover the truth and save the royal family before the dragonlord rips them apart and plunges the kingdom into war."
December 12, 2023
A rogue assassin with a price on her head and a targeted prince, this is like Mission: Impossible with a fantasy spin!
For as long as she can remember, Semra has been trained to be part of an elite syndicate of assassins by the dragonlord of the mountain, until she realizes her whole life has been a lie. Now it’s a race to hunt or be hunted before the kingdoms collapse.
Narrative Voice: 3rd person (limited)
Cussing/profanity: 0/5
Drug/alcohol use: 0/5
Kissing: 0/5
Sex/nudity: 0/5
Violence/gore: 3/5
What a fun read! I love when a character is faced with a question of identity and we follow them as they search for what to do or where they belong.
This is a book full of action and mystery with a subtle sprinkle of romance (just how I like it!) and a unique dragon bond! Also the proper usage of dragon vs wyvern made me so happy, lol! The world building is easy to follow, and I will keep reading the series to see where this path will take Semra next.
5/5 would recommend
For as long as she can remember, Semra has been trained to be part of an elite syndicate of assassins by the dragonlord of the mountain, until she realizes her whole life has been a lie. Now it’s a race to hunt or be hunted before the kingdoms collapse.
Narrative Voice: 3rd person (limited)
Cussing/profanity: 0/5
Drug/alcohol use: 0/5
Kissing: 0/5
Sex/nudity: 0/5
Violence/gore: 3/5
What a fun read! I love when a character is faced with a question of identity and we follow them as they search for what to do or where they belong.
This is a book full of action and mystery with a subtle sprinkle of romance (just how I like it!) and a unique dragon bond! Also the proper usage of dragon vs wyvern made me so happy, lol! The world building is easy to follow, and I will keep reading the series to see where this path will take Semra next.
5/5 would recommend
May 4, 2024
I should not have let this series sit on my shelves for as long as it did. Dragon’s Kiss had me hooked from the very first chapter. This series had so many twists and turns that kept me wanting to find out what happens next. The only thing that kept me from binge reading the series were the ARCs I had to review.
One of my favorite characters in this series was Siler. He is the definition of morally gray. Some of my favorite parts in this book included him. I also loved Aviama and I’m so glad she gets her own series (The Melderblood Chronicles). The MFC, Semra, is also morally gray. She often did the wrong thing for the right reasons. She was very protective of those she loved and was loyal to. She had so much growth throughout this series. The ending was so satisfying and I’m glad Semra got her happy ending.
I was so sad for this series to end, but I’m looking forward to catching up with Aviama in The Melderblood Chronicles.
What you’ll find in The Blood and Flame Saga:
🐉 Dragons
🐉 Assassins
🐉 Spice free romance
🐉 Political intrigue
🐉 Tough MFC
🐉 Backstabbing Family
🐉 Found family
🐉 Suspense
🐉 Sleeping Magic
🐉 Ancient prophecy
🐉 Awesome fight scenes
**This series is kisses only and no swearing
One of my favorite characters in this series was Siler. He is the definition of morally gray. Some of my favorite parts in this book included him. I also loved Aviama and I’m so glad she gets her own series (The Melderblood Chronicles). The MFC, Semra, is also morally gray. She often did the wrong thing for the right reasons. She was very protective of those she loved and was loyal to. She had so much growth throughout this series. The ending was so satisfying and I’m glad Semra got her happy ending.
I was so sad for this series to end, but I’m looking forward to catching up with Aviama in The Melderblood Chronicles.
What you’ll find in The Blood and Flame Saga:
🐉 Dragons
🐉 Assassins
🐉 Spice free romance
🐉 Political intrigue
🐉 Tough MFC
🐉 Backstabbing Family
🐉 Found family
🐉 Suspense
🐉 Sleeping Magic
🐉 Ancient prophecy
🐉 Awesome fight scenes
**This series is kisses only and no swearing
September 16, 2025
2.75 ⭐️ I saw the plot twist coming SO early on and I’m not even that smart. Also what the heck were the names in this book?! Entirely unpronounceable! Overall it wasn’t bad but definitely not a new favorite. I did really like Siler though!
June 24, 2023
4.5/5 ⭐
An assassin lover's dream story with dragons... Cannot wait to get to book 2
An assassin lover's dream story with dragons... Cannot wait to get to book 2
November 6, 2025
It exists! YA Fantasy without “spice” and “language” exists!
A young assassin of the Dragon Lord discovers that they may not be the good guys, as she realizes a plot against the Kingdom’s nobility and questionable histories for their organization.
Amongst its modern YA peers, Dragon’s Kiss is not only void of objectionable language, and “spice”, but it is also well written. It uses familiar fantasy themes but doesn’t fall back on common tropes. It was an enjoyable read in itself, but also sets up the rest of the series nicely. I know my teenage daughters will love this.
⚠️ Parental Warnings ⚠️
Some fantasy violence, which is mostly nondescriptive with an exception of maybe one or so scenes that give a little detail.
There are two Bathing scenes, but again nondescriptive.
A young assassin of the Dragon Lord discovers that they may not be the good guys, as she realizes a plot against the Kingdom’s nobility and questionable histories for their organization.
Amongst its modern YA peers, Dragon’s Kiss is not only void of objectionable language, and “spice”, but it is also well written. It uses familiar fantasy themes but doesn’t fall back on common tropes. It was an enjoyable read in itself, but also sets up the rest of the series nicely. I know my teenage daughters will love this.
⚠️ Parental Warnings ⚠️
Some fantasy violence, which is mostly nondescriptive with an exception of maybe one or so scenes that give a little detail.
There are two Bathing scenes, but again nondescriptive.
October 15, 2022
(Arc) Such a fun read! This is YA. Amazing world. I loved the story and the characters. Dragons and assassins. Need I say more? It kept me engaged and wanting more. Can’t wait for book 2 and read the rest of this great story.
March 5, 2024
While occasionally it was apparent this is the work of a more novice writer, the plot was unique and intriguing, and kept me wanting to read more.
October 24, 2023
-POV: Semra
-Hidden identities
-Assassins
-Politics
-Zezura the dragon ♥️
-Fights & battles
-Hidden identities
-Assassins
-Politics
-Zezura the dragon ♥️
-Fights & battles
October 3, 2022
Barely escaping death, DRAGONS, and trained assassins. Need I say more?
* Small Spoilers *
This books transfers you to Mount Hara and has packed a bunch of adventure.
Semra is a 17 year old trained assassin who learns that her “father” is not whom he says he is. When 4 year old Lesala becomes unruly and seeming to be Rotokas, a huge black Wyvern, next snack, Semra jumps into action. Narrowly escapes the mountain, and gains a couple friends along the way. They flee to a village, only to have that village set on fire during the night. It’s a warning, and Semra knows who sent it. Semra is now determined more than even to reveal who her “father” truly is and his horrible plan.
This is an absolute page turner and I couldn’t put it down. The characters are lovable and Zezura is my absolute favorite of them all. I wish we did get a little more of background on Zezura though. No Spice, but I do see a small romance building!
I can not wait for book two to be released!
* Thank you E.A. Winters for letting me be an ARC reader of Dragon’s Kiss for you! ❤️
* Small Spoilers *
This books transfers you to Mount Hara and has packed a bunch of adventure.
Semra is a 17 year old trained assassin who learns that her “father” is not whom he says he is. When 4 year old Lesala becomes unruly and seeming to be Rotokas, a huge black Wyvern, next snack, Semra jumps into action. Narrowly escapes the mountain, and gains a couple friends along the way. They flee to a village, only to have that village set on fire during the night. It’s a warning, and Semra knows who sent it. Semra is now determined more than even to reveal who her “father” truly is and his horrible plan.
This is an absolute page turner and I couldn’t put it down. The characters are lovable and Zezura is my absolute favorite of them all. I wish we did get a little more of background on Zezura though. No Spice, but I do see a small romance building!
I can not wait for book two to be released!
* Thank you E.A. Winters for letting me be an ARC reader of Dragon’s Kiss for you! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this dragon story--its humans were good, too. haha I appreciated the unique take on the dragon trope and that Winters didn't hold back and protect her characters. I look forward to the rest of the series!
October 4, 2022
Wow when I say I loved Dragons kiss, you better believe it! The world building was absolutely amazing, I fell in love with this book and the characters and I love the fact that there is a potential for romance but its not smutty and I can’t wait for the next book.
I was lucky enough to get an e-arc for the this book but will definitely be going to buy the paperback when it comes out and will be recommending this book to all of my fantasy loving friends.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this book I loved it!!
I was lucky enough to get an e-arc for the this book but will definitely be going to buy the paperback when it comes out and will be recommending this book to all of my fantasy loving friends.
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this book I loved it!!
September 30, 2022
Serma is an assassin who learns everything she has been taught since she was four years old is a lie. She sets out to thwart the one responsible. Oh, and there’s dragons. ;)
I am doing my first-ever ARC review, so bear with me.
First off, Semra is great. She knows who she is, even when dealt a blow that could make some question themselves. She is witty and strong and compassionate. I absolutely adore the relationship between her and Zezura. I love the little moments we get to see that show how connected they are.
Pacing is fantastic. Winters doesn’t linger on any one spot for too long, but she also doesn’t speed past important plot points. I am not someone who can “see” the story in my mind, so I truly appreciate that she allows the characters to build the world instead of telling me about it.
I look forward to the sequel, and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I am doing my first-ever ARC review, so bear with me.
First off, Semra is great. She knows who she is, even when dealt a blow that could make some question themselves. She is witty and strong and compassionate. I absolutely adore the relationship between her and Zezura. I love the little moments we get to see that show how connected they are.
Pacing is fantastic. Winters doesn’t linger on any one spot for too long, but she also doesn’t speed past important plot points. I am not someone who can “see” the story in my mind, so I truly appreciate that she allows the characters to build the world instead of telling me about it.
I look forward to the sequel, and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
October 1, 2022
Far off places, daring swordfights, dungeons, assassins, dragons, and a missing prince!
Semra is a relatable protagonist caught in an assassin’s guild that has lied to her since childhood. When being in the wrong place at the right time, leads her to discover things aren’t quite as they seem she takes a chance to make things right. Or at least try.
It’s a fun read and belongs on any fantasy fan’s TBR stack. (I had the opportunity to read the ARC but will be buying the paperback when it comes out later this month.)
Semra is a relatable protagonist caught in an assassin’s guild that has lied to her since childhood. When being in the wrong place at the right time, leads her to discover things aren’t quite as they seem she takes a chance to make things right. Or at least try.
It’s a fun read and belongs on any fantasy fan’s TBR stack. (I had the opportunity to read the ARC but will be buying the paperback when it comes out later this month.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2022
What a fantastic read! Dragon's kiss is full of wonderful characters, dragons, and non-stop action! The characters are well developed the main female character is strong but not because the males are weak. She is strong because of her life circumstances, her character, and her heart. The main male characters are strong, dependable, and witty. I love the intrigue and mystery E.A. Winters weaves into this book. If you love assassins, dragons, and slow burn romance then you need to get this book! I can hardly wait for the next one to come out!
E. A. Winters kindly allowed me to be one of her ARC readers. This review is my honest opinion of this book.
E. A. Winters kindly allowed me to be one of her ARC readers. This review is my honest opinion of this book.
September 29, 2022
I received the e-arc of this book and it's so good! I love the dragons (especially the main one) and their unique ability, and twists/reveals were great! I also loved the banter between some of the characters, and there were definitely some relatable, or memorable lines. I think this book would make a cool movie.
June 11, 2025
My first time reading this author, as I had been on the hunt for clean fantasy, without all the spicy, and explicit romance which tends to permeate too much fantasy. This author was suggested on an IG account that promotes "clean" book to read. I am starting to gravitate towards YA fantasy! I liked this story, and will read more of the series. (Especially because there's a dragon! ha!) I would probably give 3.7 stars if Goodreads allowed that. I found a few grammatical errors, I want to suggest the author find a better or new proofreader. I also felt some parts were a little forced to be believable, including character relationships. I hope the remaining books in the series I see some improvement with that. Overall, I did enjoy it, and it was a unique story!
June 2, 2023
First of all, thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion! It's a 4 ⭐️s for me!
I really enjoyed the overall story line of this book! It was a nice and quick read. The plot was fast-paced and something new! I also loved the fact that the book was a true YA. I would definitely recommend this book. I am excited to see how the MC grows in the books to come and what happens with the two love interests.
I really enjoyed the overall story line of this book! It was a nice and quick read. The plot was fast-paced and something new! I also loved the fact that the book was a true YA. I would definitely recommend this book. I am excited to see how the MC grows in the books to come and what happens with the two love interests.
January 3, 2023
EA Winters took world building seriously. I could see the places so clearly in my mind. The characters are unforgettable. The story line is fast paced and definitely becomes a page turner. Can’t wait for the next book!
October 10, 2022
This is my first time ARC reading, so thank you to the author for the chance to do this!
Overall, I would describe this book as lighthearted and fun. It's fairly quick-paced and an easy read once you get into it.
The premise is great. A 17-year-old assassin gains some context on the world, decides to stop assassinating targets, and instead starts protecting them. I loved the unique idea of the dragon's kiss and how that bond works. When they get to the castle, the action is really fast-paced and engaging. The plot is straightforward and uncomplicated, which makes it a fast read.
I really appreciate how the author doesn't get weighed down by heavy descriptive world-building and lets the world-building be part of the story. However, there are sections where setting is described more than is probably necessary. There are a lot of specifics on the layout of buildings, or of the mountain, and even though there's so much description, I can't picture it, but it does take me out of the story.
When it comes to characters, I have a hard time relating to them or feeling who they really are. I think that of all the characters, Dahyu is probably the character I found the most believable because he seemed to operate the most logically. I could anticipate how he would react to certain things because he was the most internally consistent. Siler is internally inconsistent to his character. He's first described as this really quiet, watchful type, but it turns out he's this boisterous, fun, comic-relief character. Even in that, he can go very quickly from teasing and messing around, to being irritated or angry.
To me, Semra seems inconsistent with general human behavior (and maybe that can be chalked up to being an assassin). Once there's a trigger for her to realize what's been going on all her life, she is able to deconstruct a belief system that's been indoctrinated into her for 13 years very very quickly. She never really comes back to question that or wrestle with it. More than that, she is quickly able to change everything about her own conscience. The incredible speed with which she's able to see right from wrong and in really crisp lines doesn't coexist well with her backstory of being indoctrinated by assassins for 13 years. She simply ceases to be a morally gray character and falls into being good all at once.
To wrap up with characters: I absolutely loved the dragon. I feel like Zezura has a great puppy-like energy... except she's this huge, beautiful, fire-breathing dragon instead of a puppy!
Overall, this is a really great read if you're looking for something that's not too heavy, has strong lines between right and wrong, and has no spice!
Overall, I would describe this book as lighthearted and fun. It's fairly quick-paced and an easy read once you get into it.
The premise is great. A 17-year-old assassin gains some context on the world, decides to stop assassinating targets, and instead starts protecting them. I loved the unique idea of the dragon's kiss and how that bond works. When they get to the castle, the action is really fast-paced and engaging. The plot is straightforward and uncomplicated, which makes it a fast read.
I really appreciate how the author doesn't get weighed down by heavy descriptive world-building and lets the world-building be part of the story. However, there are sections where setting is described more than is probably necessary. There are a lot of specifics on the layout of buildings, or of the mountain, and even though there's so much description, I can't picture it, but it does take me out of the story.
When it comes to characters, I have a hard time relating to them or feeling who they really are. I think that of all the characters, Dahyu is probably the character I found the most believable because he seemed to operate the most logically. I could anticipate how he would react to certain things because he was the most internally consistent. Siler is internally inconsistent to his character. He's first described as this really quiet, watchful type, but it turns out he's this boisterous, fun, comic-relief character. Even in that, he can go very quickly from teasing and messing around, to being irritated or angry.
To me, Semra seems inconsistent with general human behavior (and maybe that can be chalked up to being an assassin). Once there's a trigger for her to realize what's been going on all her life, she is able to deconstruct a belief system that's been indoctrinated into her for 13 years very very quickly. She never really comes back to question that or wrestle with it. More than that, she is quickly able to change everything about her own conscience. The incredible speed with which she's able to see right from wrong and in really crisp lines doesn't coexist well with her backstory of being indoctrinated by assassins for 13 years. She simply ceases to be a morally gray character and falls into being good all at once.
To wrap up with characters: I absolutely loved the dragon. I feel like Zezura has a great puppy-like energy... except she's this huge, beautiful, fire-breathing dragon instead of a puppy!
Overall, this is a really great read if you're looking for something that's not too heavy, has strong lines between right and wrong, and has no spice!
October 15, 2022
*spoiler free*
I received an ebook ARC of Dragon’s Kiss by E. A. Winters in exchange for an honest review.
“Pehaps your job is death… but your inclination is life.”
WOW! I picked up this book because I’m a huge fantasy nerd, especially regarding anything involving assassins or dragons, and this story has both!
We start off by diving headfirst into the world of Semra and the children of the Mountain: children rescued from parents who abandoned them and raised under the all-knowing and wise dragon lord to rid the world of evil… or so they’re told. After a mission goes horribly wrong, Semra learns the truth, and sets off on a mission to save the rest of the child assassins and the kingdom before it’s too late.
I absolutely ADORED the witty banter and relationships developed between Semra and the cast of characters (especially Siler. He’s my favorite). The combat scenes were detailed, realistic, and visually cinematic. Although the details sometimes got a little muddied, I could picture the settings so clearly in my head, especially the final battle. There was a lot going on politically throughout the story, and I did struggle to follow with all the names at first, but by the last third of the book things started to come together. And, of course, no review would be complete without a shoutout to the lovely, playful, and terrifying Zezura! This dragon will steal your heart.
Overall, I give this 4/5 stars. Beautiful launching point for us to dive deeper into the world of the Blood and Flame Saga. I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series takes us!
I received an ebook ARC of Dragon’s Kiss by E. A. Winters in exchange for an honest review.
“Pehaps your job is death… but your inclination is life.”
WOW! I picked up this book because I’m a huge fantasy nerd, especially regarding anything involving assassins or dragons, and this story has both!
We start off by diving headfirst into the world of Semra and the children of the Mountain: children rescued from parents who abandoned them and raised under the all-knowing and wise dragon lord to rid the world of evil… or so they’re told. After a mission goes horribly wrong, Semra learns the truth, and sets off on a mission to save the rest of the child assassins and the kingdom before it’s too late.
I absolutely ADORED the witty banter and relationships developed between Semra and the cast of characters (especially Siler. He’s my favorite). The combat scenes were detailed, realistic, and visually cinematic. Although the details sometimes got a little muddied, I could picture the settings so clearly in my head, especially the final battle. There was a lot going on politically throughout the story, and I did struggle to follow with all the names at first, but by the last third of the book things started to come together. And, of course, no review would be complete without a shoutout to the lovely, playful, and terrifying Zezura! This dragon will steal your heart.
Overall, I give this 4/5 stars. Beautiful launching point for us to dive deeper into the world of the Blood and Flame Saga. I can’t wait to see where the rest of the series takes us!
January 13, 2025
What an INCREDIBLE FANTASY BOOK!!! I love that this is also a CLEAN book! HEAVY SPOILERS BELOW!!!!!
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Brens and Semra have been trained children assassins to rid the world of evil since they were brought to the mountain and taught in the program by Fratamar.
But when this assassination goes wrong and the wrong person is killed, they have to kill two people so they get their mark. When they return to the mountain and they are explaining what occurred to the Fratamar, Semra ends up lying about what happens because she doesn’t want her friend to be beaten due to the botched job. Unfortunately the Fratamar finds out the truth and Brens is hurt anyway.
Semra starts to realize things with the Fratamar just aren’t right and this is when the story just had its hold on me. A man named Siler decides to join Semra and they begin their quest. End up saving a dragon, who ends up saving Semra and giving her the dragons kiss.
Then they need a healer because Zezura(her dragon)was injured and that’s when they meet Dayhu, which he happens to be the prince they are trying to save. He becomes friends with them and starts helping them with stopping this evil plot against the royal family
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That’s all I’m going to say about the book cause I refuse to say the rest cause it’s THAT GOOD!!!! I absolutely recommend this book! I am onto book 2!
This book has friendship, love, humor, dragons, action, cool FMC, and sweet MMC! And this book is a CLEAN READ! No cursing and no spice! Absolutely loved it!
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Brens and Semra have been trained children assassins to rid the world of evil since they were brought to the mountain and taught in the program by Fratamar.
But when this assassination goes wrong and the wrong person is killed, they have to kill two people so they get their mark. When they return to the mountain and they are explaining what occurred to the Fratamar, Semra ends up lying about what happens because she doesn’t want her friend to be beaten due to the botched job. Unfortunately the Fratamar finds out the truth and Brens is hurt anyway.
Semra starts to realize things with the Fratamar just aren’t right and this is when the story just had its hold on me. A man named Siler decides to join Semra and they begin their quest. End up saving a dragon, who ends up saving Semra and giving her the dragons kiss.
Then they need a healer because Zezura(her dragon)was injured and that’s when they meet Dayhu, which he happens to be the prince they are trying to save. He becomes friends with them and starts helping them with stopping this evil plot against the royal family
•••••••••••••••
That’s all I’m going to say about the book cause I refuse to say the rest cause it’s THAT GOOD!!!! I absolutely recommend this book! I am onto book 2!
This book has friendship, love, humor, dragons, action, cool FMC, and sweet MMC! And this book is a CLEAN READ! No cursing and no spice! Absolutely loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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