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Death #3
The Dragon King
I’ve been abandoned by every man in my life—except for one.
He arrived at the outskirts of Riviana Star just in time, and not only saved me, but the people I’ve come to consider my own. He pledged to be at my side always—and made me make the same promise in return. My heart can’t hold onto the anger and resentment a moment longer—not when I want this man for the rest of my life.
Queen Eldinar and the elves are far more suspicious of him than they ever were of me, but they offer him what he wants—the location of the dragons—if he does something for them in return. A war is coming in their forest—an attack by the dark elves that want to evade the Realm of Caelum—and they want the Death King to defeat them.
The relationship between us has changed, an invisible rope tied in many knots binding us together. I’ve pledged my life to help him with his cause, to avenge the family that was so ruthlessly taken from him, not just because I want to free the dragons—but because I want him to have peace. He’s given that to me—and I want to give him the same.
A secret locked in the depth of my heart, I know my feelings for Talon are far beyond the physical. I can feel his soul next to mine when we’re together. When I picture life after the war, I’m not Queen of Scorpion Valley or the Northern Kingdoms—but Queen Rothschild of the Southern Isles.
But there’s something between us that Talon refuses to share. Something I can’t see—but something I can feel every time we touch. A distance that only flourishes rather than withers. A secret so heavy it sinks us in the middle of the sea.
He arrived at the outskirts of Riviana Star just in time, and not only saved me, but the people I’ve come to consider my own. He pledged to be at my side always—and made me make the same promise in return. My heart can’t hold onto the anger and resentment a moment longer—not when I want this man for the rest of my life.
Queen Eldinar and the elves are far more suspicious of him than they ever were of me, but they offer him what he wants—the location of the dragons—if he does something for them in return. A war is coming in their forest—an attack by the dark elves that want to evade the Realm of Caelum—and they want the Death King to defeat them.
The relationship between us has changed, an invisible rope tied in many knots binding us together. I’ve pledged my life to help him with his cause, to avenge the family that was so ruthlessly taken from him, not just because I want to free the dragons—but because I want him to have peace. He’s given that to me—and I want to give him the same.
A secret locked in the depth of my heart, I know my feelings for Talon are far beyond the physical. I can feel his soul next to mine when we’re together. When I picture life after the war, I’m not Queen of Scorpion Valley or the Northern Kingdoms—but Queen Rothschild of the Southern Isles.
But there’s something between us that Talon refuses to share. Something I can’t see—but something I can feel every time we touch. A distance that only flourishes rather than withers. A secret so heavy it sinks us in the middle of the sea.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2024
2088 people are currently reading
1530 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Barsetti
29 books923 followersPenelope Barsetti is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her beloved novels have sold more than 5 Million copies, and her work has been translated into a dozen languages. Readers may know her by another name, Penelope Sky, where she writes contemporary dark romance.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
November 30, 2025
4.5 Stars
My favorite of the series.
My favorite of the series.
March 19, 2025
Ugh, what a disappointing book. The first in the Death series was great, second was tolerable, but the 3rd? Dumpster fire. It took me weeks to trudge thru this book because it is so bad that I started avoiding it. Needless to say, I have a few complaints.
First— the characters suck ass. Lots of mental and emotional abuse disguised as romance and some downright cringy interactions. Ezra sucks. Eldinar is a snooze fest. Bahamut is boring. Khazmuda is okay but only because dragons are inherently cool lol. Actually, I take that back. Macabre was a pretty hollow and disappointing character. I’m sure I will learn more about him in the next book but… why not start now? It’s not like any other plot happening.
Characters also lack consistency. A character described as “small and petite” is described later on as “tall and strong”. It was glaringly bad.
Talon still confuses the hell out of me, even knowing his backstory. He’s just… an asshole. He has no redeeming qualities. There are a few moments where Calista alludes to being scared Talon might hit her and that is kinda messed up. She drools over this dude doing the absolute bare minimum for her like waiting until she is finished eating before getting up from the table. I don’t get why Calista is so into him. I just don’t felt like the whole “I took over your kingdom and basically killed your dad” thing was ever resolved for me.
Second— Calista is the most boring FMC ever. She has known that a war was coming since the first book and she still hasn’t learned to fight. Maybe she works on that in the next book, but there was a huge missed opportunity to give Calista time to grow both mentally and physically while separated from Talon in the last book (instead she just hung out in her tree house), but noooooooooo. Instead, we get Calista running around after Talon trying to clean up his messes while simultaneously convince us that Talon is a good guy (even though he literally isn’t). Oh and she goes vegan. That was about the extent of her character growth. We don’t even get any development of her relationship with Inferno. I understand this book was supposed to give us more of Talon’s story, but all we learned about him is that he is perpetually mad/sad/pouty and how horny he is (at all times) for Calista. It is dreadful to wade thru his boring ass chapters. If Calista had some (any??) growth throughout this book, it could have been a redeeming feature.
Third— nothing really happens, and when it does, it seems poorly thought out and rushed. We got a lot of random fights with bad guys that we know nothing about. Come to think of it, we don’t really know much about the good guys either lol. Enemies become friends in totally unrealistic ways. Most, if not all, of the relationships in this book have zero chemistry and are awkward. I felt like Talon is supposed to have this air of mystery and secrets about him but it just ended up feeling like the author was too lazy to go into real details. This unfortunately lead to the book lacking any real substance. The author needed to cool it with all the terrible similes and metaphors and actually do some world building/deeper exploration into the characters. This brings me to my next point….
Fourth— The writing is genuinely terrible. I’m not talking typos or misplaced punctuation. I’m talking about run on sentences, weird and unrealistic dialogue and an amazing overuse of comparisons that make it almost unreadable. If I have to read another terrible metaphor or simile from this author I will scream. I counted 20 of them in the first 30 pages. A quick search of the word “like” on the kindle version of this book brought up a goldmine of cringe. This author writes like she has a word count to reach but has nothing to say. Some examples…
— “My d*** was hard as steel as her body gripped me like a hand gripped the hilt of a sword”.
If that does it for you, this is the book for you. There’s at least 1000 other sword/knife related euphemisms in this book.
Some of my other favorites…
— “You water her like she’s a flower. You carry her like she has no legs. You show her a tenderness that a gardener shows his roses.” (Um when has Talon ever done anything nice or tender or selfless for Calista? Also this is just awkward and weird writing)
— “A rush of feelings bubbled inside me like a warm bath.”
— “I felt my body melt like snow from the top of the mountains, rushing downstream like a river.”
— “…feeling him invade me like no other man who had passed through my gates.” (?!!?)
— “Her green eyes reflected the fires, looking like brilliant emerald flames dancing to the beat of her heart.”
And my personal favorite—
“Talon dropped the front of his trousers and positioned himself between my open thighs, sliding into place like a key in a lock, and then he sank, his d*** invading a land he had already claimed in his name.”
I just can’t.
Fifth and Finally— Talon calling Calista “baby” grosses me out more than I can even describe.
First— the characters suck ass. Lots of mental and emotional abuse disguised as romance and some downright cringy interactions. Ezra sucks. Eldinar is a snooze fest. Bahamut is boring. Khazmuda is okay but only because dragons are inherently cool lol. Actually, I take that back. Macabre was a pretty hollow and disappointing character. I’m sure I will learn more about him in the next book but… why not start now? It’s not like any other plot happening.
Characters also lack consistency. A character described as “small and petite” is described later on as “tall and strong”. It was glaringly bad.
Talon still confuses the hell out of me, even knowing his backstory. He’s just… an asshole. He has no redeeming qualities. There are a few moments where Calista alludes to being scared Talon might hit her and that is kinda messed up. She drools over this dude doing the absolute bare minimum for her like waiting until she is finished eating before getting up from the table. I don’t get why Calista is so into him. I just don’t felt like the whole “I took over your kingdom and basically killed your dad” thing was ever resolved for me.
Second— Calista is the most boring FMC ever. She has known that a war was coming since the first book and she still hasn’t learned to fight. Maybe she works on that in the next book, but there was a huge missed opportunity to give Calista time to grow both mentally and physically while separated from Talon in the last book (instead she just hung out in her tree house), but noooooooooo. Instead, we get Calista running around after Talon trying to clean up his messes while simultaneously convince us that Talon is a good guy (even though he literally isn’t). Oh and she goes vegan. That was about the extent of her character growth. We don’t even get any development of her relationship with Inferno. I understand this book was supposed to give us more of Talon’s story, but all we learned about him is that he is perpetually mad/sad/pouty and how horny he is (at all times) for Calista. It is dreadful to wade thru his boring ass chapters. If Calista had some (any??) growth throughout this book, it could have been a redeeming feature.
Third— nothing really happens, and when it does, it seems poorly thought out and rushed. We got a lot of random fights with bad guys that we know nothing about. Come to think of it, we don’t really know much about the good guys either lol. Enemies become friends in totally unrealistic ways. Most, if not all, of the relationships in this book have zero chemistry and are awkward. I felt like Talon is supposed to have this air of mystery and secrets about him but it just ended up feeling like the author was too lazy to go into real details. This unfortunately lead to the book lacking any real substance. The author needed to cool it with all the terrible similes and metaphors and actually do some world building/deeper exploration into the characters. This brings me to my next point….
Fourth— The writing is genuinely terrible. I’m not talking typos or misplaced punctuation. I’m talking about run on sentences, weird and unrealistic dialogue and an amazing overuse of comparisons that make it almost unreadable. If I have to read another terrible metaphor or simile from this author I will scream. I counted 20 of them in the first 30 pages. A quick search of the word “like” on the kindle version of this book brought up a goldmine of cringe. This author writes like she has a word count to reach but has nothing to say. Some examples…
— “My d*** was hard as steel as her body gripped me like a hand gripped the hilt of a sword”.
If that does it for you, this is the book for you. There’s at least 1000 other sword/knife related euphemisms in this book.
Some of my other favorites…
— “You water her like she’s a flower. You carry her like she has no legs. You show her a tenderness that a gardener shows his roses.” (Um when has Talon ever done anything nice or tender or selfless for Calista? Also this is just awkward and weird writing)
— “A rush of feelings bubbled inside me like a warm bath.”
— “I felt my body melt like snow from the top of the mountains, rushing downstream like a river.”
— “…feeling him invade me like no other man who had passed through my gates.” (?!!?)
— “Her green eyes reflected the fires, looking like brilliant emerald flames dancing to the beat of her heart.”
And my personal favorite—
“Talon dropped the front of his trousers and positioned himself between my open thighs, sliding into place like a key in a lock, and then he sank, his d*** invading a land he had already claimed in his name.”
I just can’t.
Fifth and Finally— Talon calling Calista “baby” grosses me out more than I can even describe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2025
I’ve been enjoying this series so much!! It’s severely underrated!✨🐉
February 9, 2025
4 stars
Third book in the serial. The plot is still thickening in a very coherent and enjoyable way. I really admire PB's writing mastery in spinning such a rich story that is able to go the distance without losing credibility. And the way she is able to clearly express the complicated views of each character simply yet powerfully, is just wow.
I enjoyed this book but somewhere along the way I was a teeny bit tired with some of the push and pull (not just between Talon and Calista, but with the elves, with Macabre etc). These were needed of course to push the story into its final book, but I still got a bit depressed. Possibly it's because I am reading this back to back. I will be taking a short break of one book before going in the finale.
Trivia point: reading back to back has the advantage of detecting repetitions that need editing. I already realised it in Book 2, but it was very flagrant in Book 3 that some good editing was needed to smooth out some kinks in the plot. E.g. having Calista asking anew what is the use of Black Diamonds when she already asked and received the explanation in Book 1! Unless the aim was to make Calista a forgetful, with low attention span, character 🤨! There are several small instances like these that bothered me quite a lot in Book 2 and 3.
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My review for Book 1: here
My review for Book 2: here
My review for Book 4: here
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2025
This series has taken over my life! 🤣 Talon and Calista’s love story and quest to save their lands and all of dragon-kind is the most terrifying roller coaster of emotions! I may even dare say I haven’t loved a series this much since Fourth Wing! The audio is fabulous!
January 12, 2025
I wasn't liking it at first, thought it boring but then started liking it, towards end kind of loved it.
The Dragon King
by Penelope Barsetti
Narrated by Ramona Master; Michael Ferraiuolo
Audiobook rating : 4 stars
Book rating : 2.5 stars
Overall rating : 3 stars
Both the narrators has done a fantastic job especially male narrator as his Dragon's voice and Talon's voice were so different that it felt like two different people has voiced it over.
This is the third book in the series and I didn't notice it when I requested it, nevertheless I liked to listen to the audiobook. I'm definitely going to read the first two books because I really want to know what happened between Callista and Talon.
Now to be honest, there's hardly anything that's going on in the book, there was a moment when I thought of DNFing the book but I carried on coz narrators really kept me engaged. There is few action here in this book but somehow I was invested in the characters. Especially the character of the Queen Eldinar is my favourite.
I liked what was overall going on in the book. The dragons and other dark stuff. I just wish it had more action or more thrill to it but now that I'm already invested, I'm gonna request and get my hands on the next book.
See ya on the other side.
Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for this audiobook ARC in exchange of an honest review.
The Dragon King
by Penelope Barsetti
Narrated by Ramona Master; Michael Ferraiuolo
Audiobook rating : 4 stars
Book rating : 2.5 stars
Overall rating : 3 stars
Both the narrators has done a fantastic job especially male narrator as his Dragon's voice and Talon's voice were so different that it felt like two different people has voiced it over.
This is the third book in the series and I didn't notice it when I requested it, nevertheless I liked to listen to the audiobook. I'm definitely going to read the first two books because I really want to know what happened between Callista and Talon.
Now to be honest, there's hardly anything that's going on in the book, there was a moment when I thought of DNFing the book but I carried on coz narrators really kept me engaged. There is few action here in this book but somehow I was invested in the characters. Especially the character of the Queen Eldinar is my favourite.
I liked what was overall going on in the book. The dragons and other dark stuff. I just wish it had more action or more thrill to it but now that I'm already invested, I'm gonna request and get my hands on the next book.
See ya on the other side.
Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for this audiobook ARC in exchange of an honest review.
December 18, 2024
FMC
I loved the first 2 books but the third one kinda made me want to DNF. Calista’s character was so clingy and needy, she had no growth. After she unfused with Inferno it was like she became a damsel instead of a bada**. She didn’t practice fighting anymore she just didn’t do anything. She’s supposed to be a “queen” but acted so dependent on Talon. She was a secondary character in this book and was so weak. She just let Talon disrespect her and she allowed him to get away with not telling her anything about himself. He gave nothing to her but sex and he saved her a handful of times but other than that I don’t see how she fell in love with him.
Talon shared more with the elf queen than anyone else. At one point I thought they were going to fall in love. This book was so confusing I had no idea Calista would basically be the side character in Talon’s book. I’m hoping in the fourth book she gets her confidence back and decides that she is a bada** on her own with or without Talon.
I loved the first 2 books but the third one kinda made me want to DNF. Calista’s character was so clingy and needy, she had no growth. After she unfused with Inferno it was like she became a damsel instead of a bada**. She didn’t practice fighting anymore she just didn’t do anything. She’s supposed to be a “queen” but acted so dependent on Talon. She was a secondary character in this book and was so weak. She just let Talon disrespect her and she allowed him to get away with not telling her anything about himself. He gave nothing to her but sex and he saved her a handful of times but other than that I don’t see how she fell in love with him.
Talon shared more with the elf queen than anyone else. At one point I thought they were going to fall in love. This book was so confusing I had no idea Calista would basically be the side character in Talon’s book. I’m hoping in the fourth book she gets her confidence back and decides that she is a bada** on her own with or without Talon.
December 22, 2024
ehhh..
Honestly this book was a huge disappointment. Nothing happened and the characters all sucked. Calista is a literal doormat for EVERYONE. Which is sad because she was strong but desperate in the first book which should’ve made her want to get as much training and strength as possible and all she’s done the last two books is sit around and cry, let people talk down to her and treat her poorly, and have lots of “sexy” time with Talon. Ezra was a terrible useless character and I might’ve hated him more than anyone. With family like that who needs enemies. I was wiling to let his behavior slide after the initial meet but for him to be so hostile with Calista simply for cutting the queen off to the point where he’s threatening to “escort” her away was ridiculous. He does not love the queens he is unhealthily obsessed with her. It’s creepy and gross because he can’t have a normal relationship with anyone else because of it. He abandoned his brother, his homeland, his niece after she had be tortured and captive, any other friendships it seems and all to sniff behind the Queen. The Queen was annoying and rude. Even when she decided to be besties with Talon she was still terrible to Calista. Inferno was also useless. He went away with a purpose and then just sat there not completing it and also not keeping in touch. Luxe was a wallflower who wasn’t needed since he was never any real competition. Talon was annoying, like I like that he’s basically the only person in the books willing to get stuff done and the only one that seems to have ACTUAL power but like everything else about him is off putting. His dragon is just about the only character that is likable. Like idk how much longer I can drag myself through this story if the next book becomes all smut with no character or plot development because at this point I’m not invested in anyone. I think Calista is a terrible main character because she literally took a backseat to EVERYONE and if you can’t root for your main character then what is the point.
Honestly this book was a huge disappointment. Nothing happened and the characters all sucked. Calista is a literal doormat for EVERYONE. Which is sad because she was strong but desperate in the first book which should’ve made her want to get as much training and strength as possible and all she’s done the last two books is sit around and cry, let people talk down to her and treat her poorly, and have lots of “sexy” time with Talon. Ezra was a terrible useless character and I might’ve hated him more than anyone. With family like that who needs enemies. I was wiling to let his behavior slide after the initial meet but for him to be so hostile with Calista simply for cutting the queen off to the point where he’s threatening to “escort” her away was ridiculous. He does not love the queens he is unhealthily obsessed with her. It’s creepy and gross because he can’t have a normal relationship with anyone else because of it. He abandoned his brother, his homeland, his niece after she had be tortured and captive, any other friendships it seems and all to sniff behind the Queen. The Queen was annoying and rude. Even when she decided to be besties with Talon she was still terrible to Calista. Inferno was also useless. He went away with a purpose and then just sat there not completing it and also not keeping in touch. Luxe was a wallflower who wasn’t needed since he was never any real competition. Talon was annoying, like I like that he’s basically the only person in the books willing to get stuff done and the only one that seems to have ACTUAL power but like everything else about him is off putting. His dragon is just about the only character that is likable. Like idk how much longer I can drag myself through this story if the next book becomes all smut with no character or plot development because at this point I’m not invested in anyone. I think Calista is a terrible main character because she literally took a backseat to EVERYONE and if you can’t root for your main character then what is the point.
June 12, 2025
My least favorite so far, where the author forced another reason for Calista and Talon to be enemies so they can become lovers again.
I've figured out what's missing from this series: DEVELOPMENT. Absolutely NOTHING develops. It just isn't, and then it just is.
Talon is furious at Calista
Talon can't live without Calista
Queen Eldinar hates Talon
Queen Eldinar and Talon are *best friends*
The dragons will have no interaction with humans
The dragons fuse their souls with humans
No need to go on; you get the picture. At least this novel ended on an intriguing note! Next up is the finale, The Dragon Queen.
I've figured out what's missing from this series: DEVELOPMENT. Absolutely NOTHING develops. It just isn't, and then it just is.
Talon is furious at Calista
Talon can't live without Calista
Queen Eldinar hates Talon
Queen Eldinar and Talon are *best friends*
The dragons will have no interaction with humans
The dragons fuse their souls with humans
No need to go on; you get the picture. At least this novel ended on an intriguing note! Next up is the finale, The Dragon Queen.
November 22, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🐉Dragons
💀Battles
🐉Dual POV
This was a very good continuation of this series. I love that we got to see the growth between the two MCs. I enjoyed the battles that were present in this book.
I love that the Dragon King finally told someone his burden. The unexpected friendship that forms in this one was needed. I don’t think I could have agreed with a redemption for the Queen without the friendship.
The ending was predictable but I am enjoying where this story is going.
I can’t wait for the next one.
The female narrator does a phenomenal job throughout the whole book. I also don’t mind her voicing the male parts. Her voice has so much emotion that I feel everything. If she would have voiced the whole book I would have enjoyed it all the same.
I do enjoy the male narrator in this book, however he is not how I would envision the death king’s voice. Overall I think he does a good job.
🌶️
🐉Dragons
💀Battles
🐉Dual POV
This was a very good continuation of this series. I love that we got to see the growth between the two MCs. I enjoyed the battles that were present in this book.
I love that the Dragon King finally told someone his burden. The unexpected friendship that forms in this one was needed. I don’t think I could have agreed with a redemption for the Queen without the friendship.
The ending was predictable but I am enjoying where this story is going.
I can’t wait for the next one.
The female narrator does a phenomenal job throughout the whole book. I also don’t mind her voicing the male parts. Her voice has so much emotion that I feel everything. If she would have voiced the whole book I would have enjoyed it all the same.
I do enjoy the male narrator in this book, however he is not how I would envision the death king’s voice. Overall I think he does a good job.
November 11, 2024
"Black riptides of death. Bottomless pits of brokenness. Sheer nothingness. 'You.' She was the only thing left in me."
The Dragon King by Penelope Barsetti is a stunning blend of fantasy and romance. Calista and Talon’s connection is captivating, and their journey through love, war, and secrets kept me hooked. With dragons, necromancy, and elves, Barsetti weaves a unique and immersive tale that’s beautifully written. I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in this incredible series!
The Dragon King by Penelope Barsetti is a stunning blend of fantasy and romance. Calista and Talon’s connection is captivating, and their journey through love, war, and secrets kept me hooked. With dragons, necromancy, and elves, Barsetti weaves a unique and immersive tale that’s beautifully written. I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment in this incredible series!
November 6, 2024
DRAGONS!!!
It’s freaking dragons!! Penelope sure knows the way to my heart! I love everything about dragons!! This is actually the first book in the series I’ve read, but will most definitely be circling back around to read the others! The main character’s, Calista, snarky and unguarded personality was written beautifully. Talon and Calista have me in a chokehold! The spice level is well written. Overall I’d say this story is gripping, action packed, heart wrenching, and just absolutely phenomenal!! Just read the series and see for yourself. You will not regret it!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review
It’s freaking dragons!! Penelope sure knows the way to my heart! I love everything about dragons!! This is actually the first book in the series I’ve read, but will most definitely be circling back around to read the others! The main character’s, Calista, snarky and unguarded personality was written beautifully. Talon and Calista have me in a chokehold! The spice level is well written. Overall I’d say this story is gripping, action packed, heart wrenching, and just absolutely phenomenal!! Just read the series and see for yourself. You will not regret it!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 15, 2024
I’m going to keep this short and sweet. This is book 3 in The Death Series. This author can weave a tale like no other. Her vivid words immerse you in this fictional world like you are presently living in it. I feel like I am experiencing everything Talon and Calista are going through. In this book, their love for each other grows deeper and stronger, even though secrets are still being kept. The battles between the kingdoms will leave your heart pounding. And you will be gutted by learning more of Talon’s past. Please, do yourself a favor and read this series. It is truly magical.
May 27, 2025
The ending was not what I expected! Wow!!😳 now I’m really sucked in — on to book #4.
January 4, 2025
3.5⭐️
There were parts of this book where I felt like the author forgot who her characters were and what she had already written. I really liked this book, but thought this was a point worth mentioning.
Calista IS a queen, yet no one treats her as such. Later on Talon mentions there being no other woman since meeting Calista but there literally was (Natalie).
There was a lot of repetition, specifically in referencing how the dragons don’t show emotions physically the way humans do.
I liked the reveal that Vivian and Calista shared a similar trauma.
Was hoping for more growth from Calista, but I have a feeling that will come in the next book.
There were parts of this book where I felt like the author forgot who her characters were and what she had already written. I really liked this book, but thought this was a point worth mentioning.
Calista IS a queen, yet no one treats her as such. Later on Talon mentions there being no other woman since meeting Calista but there literally was (Natalie).
There was a lot of repetition, specifically in referencing how the dragons don’t show emotions physically the way humans do.
I liked the reveal that Vivian and Calista shared a similar trauma.
Was hoping for more growth from Calista, but I have a feeling that will come in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2024
4.5 stars
Mood Reader: Maybe wait until the 4th book it out (Nov 30 2024) - because this ended on one helluva cliffhanger. This is dark fantasy/romantasy hitting all the trauma.
This was a very emotional read, much like Book 2. This series concentrates more on the emotional connections and conflicts between the main characters rather than intense world-building. It's a book about love, grief, revenge, violence, acts of evil, acts of redemption, loyalty, friendship, betrayal, enemies and terrible bargains. This story will make you feel all your feels very intensely.
Mood Reader: Maybe wait until the 4th book it out (Nov 30 2024) - because this ended on one helluva cliffhanger. This is dark fantasy/romantasy hitting all the trauma.
This was a very emotional read, much like Book 2. This series concentrates more on the emotional connections and conflicts between the main characters rather than intense world-building. It's a book about love, grief, revenge, violence, acts of evil, acts of redemption, loyalty, friendship, betrayal, enemies and terrible bargains. This story will make you feel all your feels very intensely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
Here come the dragons!
Genre: Romantacy (Book 3 in the series)
⭐️ 3/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 5/10 (Must read books 1 and 2 for world and plot building)
I've enjoyed this series so far, even when one of the MCs makes my eye twitch. Both are annoyingly stubborn at times. Watching the MMC finally start the process of healing from the death of his wife and child but knowing it may be too late. It's rough!
The ending here would never make me believe Talon would betray his allies. He's just worked past all that. There is no way!
On to book 4!
Genre: Romantacy (Book 3 in the series)
⭐️ 3/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 5/10 (Must read books 1 and 2 for world and plot building)
I've enjoyed this series so far, even when one of the MCs makes my eye twitch. Both are annoyingly stubborn at times. Watching the MMC finally start the process of healing from the death of his wife and child but knowing it may be too late. It's rough!
The ending here would never make me believe Talon would betray his allies. He's just worked past all that. There is no way!
On to book 4!
October 27, 2024
Oh my gosh this was amazing!!! The emotional damage Penelope has done to me! Calista and Talon are my absolute favorite couple, Calista has healed talon and made him want to live and love again after the tragedy he experienced. The way Talon makes Calista feel is so endearing. Their relationship is beautiful. The spice in this book 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 it’s yummy. The emotions that this book will make you feel is indescribable, I was happy, I was sad, i was freaking out!! This is an absolute must read. Also dragons dragons dragons!!! I love that we get to dive deeper into them.
October 31, 2024
Each and every time I finish a book in this series,I feel as if I’ve climbed the highest mountaintop,only to be dropped from the cliff as soon as I reach the summit.
The intrigue,the twists and turns,the elation right before feeling near immediate misery has made this series a favorite of my angst- loving heart..
The depth of emotion,and connection the characters have with each other is at the forefront of my mind most days. I can’t stop thinking about what the conclusion will bring. This third installment,like the others,had my heart beating so fast.
I feared reading each subsequent page,but devoured them in what felt like moments.
If you lovepolitical intrigue, family squabbles, powerful dynasties, and forbidden and tragic love, this is the book series for you!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
The intrigue,the twists and turns,the elation right before feeling near immediate misery has made this series a favorite of my angst- loving heart..
The depth of emotion,and connection the characters have with each other is at the forefront of my mind most days. I can’t stop thinking about what the conclusion will bring. This third installment,like the others,had my heart beating so fast.
I feared reading each subsequent page,but devoured them in what felt like moments.
If you lovepolitical intrigue, family squabbles, powerful dynasties, and forbidden and tragic love, this is the book series for you!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 9, 2025
These books are fun but I feel like we get a mini battle in the beginning then after everyone just acts like children. Idk i just want more action to happen. This final battle better be EPIC with the way I'm waiting for it 🤣
But I'm still reading them so it's good enough to keep me hooked right? Lol
But I'm still reading them so it's good enough to keep me hooked right? Lol
November 8, 2024
Truly enjoyed this book. I loved it sooooo much.
Talon once again gave me a reason to not hate him. Calista I do wish she had more strength in this book but I love that she was able to find some solace after years of what she has been through.
This book really had me emotional, I did cry a little. I really appreciate seeing a male character who has such an hard exterior, break down his walls and open up.
I enjoyed every character, I loved the platonic relationship between Queen Eldinar and Talon. I love to see friendships in the opposite sex and it’s nothing more than a respectable friendship.
All in all really loved it.
Talon once again gave me a reason to not hate him. Calista I do wish she had more strength in this book but I love that she was able to find some solace after years of what she has been through.
This book really had me emotional, I did cry a little. I really appreciate seeing a male character who has such an hard exterior, break down his walls and open up.
I enjoyed every character, I loved the platonic relationship between Queen Eldinar and Talon. I love to see friendships in the opposite sex and it’s nothing more than a respectable friendship.
All in all really loved it.
January 11, 2025
Give me a name, and I’ll make it happen👀
Dang Talon can’t catch a break!
This is not an easy task to do and Bahamut is a arse for asking.
What will he do?
The spice is leaving for me but the action is still there.
They definitely were acting like children in this one and it was annoying. Might be my leave favorite king the series.
Starting to like Queen Eldinar, but she might make me regret it.
Loving this series tho!
Dang Talon can’t catch a break!
This is not an easy task to do and Bahamut is a arse for asking.
What will he do?
The spice is leaving for me but the action is still there.
They definitely were acting like children in this one and it was annoying. Might be my leave favorite king the series.
Starting to like Queen Eldinar, but she might make me regret it.
Loving this series tho!
October 27, 2024
Ok this is my least favorite of the series, but, still I love this series - so I will round it up to a three.
This book immediately jumped into the story - I wish it had a prologue connection from the end of the last one. It felt a little rushed at some points.
We get more of Queen Eldinar, the elves, and what seems like an alliance. But I am super suspicious of her still and not just because Bahamut hates her because of their past. There are some things that seem suspicious with how connected she is to one of the dragons and how he treats her like how Kazmuda loves Talon.
I’m very excited for the conclusion of this series and to see what happens because I will be so upset if his soul really is stolen and gone!
This book immediately jumped into the story - I wish it had a prologue connection from the end of the last one. It felt a little rushed at some points.
We get more of Queen Eldinar, the elves, and what seems like an alliance. But I am super suspicious of her still and not just because Bahamut hates her because of their past. There are some things that seem suspicious with how connected she is to one of the dragons and how he treats her like how Kazmuda loves Talon.
I’m very excited for the conclusion of this series and to see what happens because I will be so upset if his soul really is stolen and gone!
March 16, 2025
Gets better and better yyyeeesss calista don’t let that man be a coward she is so head strong his strength his weakness Mohamed ugh I hate you please talon don’t she’s your friend and family
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
Great sequel. This was the 3rd in the installment and love that there is a 4th. This is an easy Romantasy series. There is romance, dragons, kings and queens and it just keeps me engaged.
August 8, 2025
Writing not so mediocre for book 3 but if I have to hear big dick one more time I’m gonna flip out. Thank god it was only mentioned once during the entire book compared to the previous two as it was mentioned numerous times.
Read
December 14, 2025no rating because i don't wanna read this anymore
April 26, 2025
Oooh this hurt me. 🥲🥲
February 9, 2025
I. Was. So. Bored!! The writing for Calista became SO juvenile and intensely repetitive. I missed the earlier iterations of her.
This almost became a DNF.
This almost became a DNF.
December 12, 2024
Got a bit better.
I’ve come to the conclusion that this book is not about Calista, as it first seems. The main character is Talon Rothschild, heir to the Summer Isles.
The prose is still over the top but getting a bit more manageable, either that or I’m getting used to glossing over the less outlandish ones. You can’t gloss the others, they are just… 😐
Calista has become this weak and dependent person who doesn’t know how to wipe her butt without Talon’s presence nearby. The way she carries on is just ridiculous and needy. What amazes me though is the fact that she has not become pregnant with the amount of unprotected sex they have had across the books. They go for days long sexcapades, yet nothing. There were a few times she exhibited symptoms, but they suddenly went away.
Anything I noticed is that Talon mentioned a type of people named Dragonians a while back… nothing has come of that. He didn’t even mention that his Summerisle people were Dragonian, and never mentioned speaking with King Constantine before. The only connection to dragons ever mentioned was the one where his great grandfather pleaded to save his son and made the first fuse.
And that makes me wonder about the Great War that Talon and his people didn’t seem to know about between humans and dragons, yet they’ve lived peacefully beside each other for generations…
There are plenty of plot holes that are coming to light as the story progresses and plenty more being made. I realize I’m just here to see how things fair for Talon in the end. Three books down, three to go?
See my notes, highlights and commentary on Goodreads. Happy reading!
I’ve come to the conclusion that this book is not about Calista, as it first seems. The main character is Talon Rothschild, heir to the Summer Isles.
The prose is still over the top but getting a bit more manageable, either that or I’m getting used to glossing over the less outlandish ones. You can’t gloss the others, they are just… 😐
Calista has become this weak and dependent person who doesn’t know how to wipe her butt without Talon’s presence nearby. The way she carries on is just ridiculous and needy. What amazes me though is the fact that she has not become pregnant with the amount of unprotected sex they have had across the books. They go for days long sexcapades, yet nothing. There were a few times she exhibited symptoms, but they suddenly went away.
Anything I noticed is that Talon mentioned a type of people named Dragonians a while back… nothing has come of that. He didn’t even mention that his Summerisle people were Dragonian, and never mentioned speaking with King Constantine before. The only connection to dragons ever mentioned was the one where his great grandfather pleaded to save his son and made the first fuse.
And that makes me wonder about the Great War that Talon and his people didn’t seem to know about between humans and dragons, yet they’ve lived peacefully beside each other for generations…
There are plenty of plot holes that are coming to light as the story progresses and plenty more being made. I realize I’m just here to see how things fair for Talon in the end. Three books down, three to go?
See my notes, highlights and commentary on Goodreads. Happy reading!
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