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Kiss of Ashes
Fae rule. Mortals serve. Dragon shifters fascinate us all.
I’ve always known my place…until the dragon shifter claims me.
Like all mortals, my magic was carved out of me when I was a little girl, then sold for Fae favors. I’ve sacrificed to protect my little sister from that same fate, but a Fae cure is the only thing that can save my dying brother.
Then the gorgeous, lethal dragon shifter arrives in our village. When his own magic is lost, he steals my sister’s magic. He steals my brother’s chance.
And then he steals me.
He claims I’m dragon-marked. He forces me to come with him to the dragon trials to fight for my right to shift—and my right to survive.
He’s both my worst enemy and my best chance of survival in the beautiful, deadly world of the Fae. Now half the kingdom thinks the dragon prince and I are fated mates. We trade barbed comments and kisses as I contemplate stabbing him in the back.
His enemies claim that if I kill him, I can reverse what he did. I can give my sister back her magic and save my brother’s life.
Now I’ll fight in the Dragon Trials, at his side, in his elite, powerful clan of dragon shifters. I have to decide to throw my lot in with this lying, heroic, possessive, alluring shifter—or destroy him for the sake of my siblings.
I’ve always known my place…until the dragon shifter claims me.
Like all mortals, my magic was carved out of me when I was a little girl, then sold for Fae favors. I’ve sacrificed to protect my little sister from that same fate, but a Fae cure is the only thing that can save my dying brother.
Then the gorgeous, lethal dragon shifter arrives in our village. When his own magic is lost, he steals my sister’s magic. He steals my brother’s chance.
And then he steals me.
He claims I’m dragon-marked. He forces me to come with him to the dragon trials to fight for my right to shift—and my right to survive.
He’s both my worst enemy and my best chance of survival in the beautiful, deadly world of the Fae. Now half the kingdom thinks the dragon prince and I are fated mates. We trade barbed comments and kisses as I contemplate stabbing him in the back.
His enemies claim that if I kill him, I can reverse what he did. I can give my sister back her magic and save my brother’s life.
Now I’ll fight in the Dragon Trials, at his side, in his elite, powerful clan of dragon shifters. I have to decide to throw my lot in with this lying, heroic, possessive, alluring shifter—or destroy him for the sake of my siblings.
- GenresFantasy
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2025
52 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
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December 12, 2025
English first, Dutch next!
When Destiny Whispers Through Dragonfire in ’Kiss of Ashes’
In ’Kiss of Ashes’ the world is harsh, magical and unforgiving. The fae rule with an iron hand, humans stand at the bottom of the hierarchy and shifters maintain the balance of power. In the middle of all of this stands Cara, who has lost her magic and is desperately trying to prevent her sister from suffering the same fate while her brother grows sicker by the day. During an attack on their village, the powerful dragon shifter Fieran appears, a presence both mesmerizing and dangerous. He takes Cara to the Dragon Trials, convinced she has been marked by a dragon. If she manages to survive the trials, she can become a dragon shifter herself. He may be her greatest enemy, but he is also the only one who can help her save her family.
May Dawson writes with a light, rhythmic flow, using many dialogues and short chapters that make the book incredibly easy to fly through. The focus is entirely on Cara, and that works surprisingly well. It only makes the curiosity grow for a future chapter told from Kieran’s point of view. From the very first page, you slip into the world without even noticing. The creatures, the magic and the power dynamics come to life vividly without ever feeling overwhelming. The mix of tension, humor and a touch of spice keeps the pacing energetic and the story engaging.
One of the strongest elements is Cara’s growth. She begins as someone driven by fear and responsibility but gradually transforms into someone who dares to claim her own power. The dynamic between her and Fieran deepens that journey. Their interactions are intense and sometimes clashing, yet unexpectedly gentle at times, giving every scene between them something special.
The ending leaves plenty of room to dive straight into the next book. The promise of more dragon lore, hidden fae intrigues and hopefully a glimpse inside Kieran’s thoughts ensures that ’Kiss of Ashes’ is not only a strong first installment but also the beginning of something that could grow into much more.
***Dutch***
Wanneer het lot fluistert door drakenvuur in ’Kiss of Ashes’
In ’Kiss of Ashes’ is de wereld hard, magisch en genadeloos. De fae regeren, mensen staan onderaan de ladder en shifters bepalen het evenwicht. Te midden van die machtsstrijd staat Cara, die haar magie is kwijtgeraakt en wanhopig probeert te voorkomen dat haar zusje hetzelfde overkomt, terwijl haar broertje steeds zieker wordt. Tijdens een aanval op hun dorp verschijnt de indrukwekkende drakenshifter Fieran, een verschijning die even betoverend als gevaarlijk is. Hij neemt Cara mee naar de Dragon Trials, overtuigd dat zij gemarkeerd is door een draak. Als ze de proeven weet te doorstaan, kan ze zelf een drakenshifter worden. Hij is haar grootste tegenstander maar ook de enige die haar kan helpen haar familie te redden.
May Dawson schrijft luchtig en ritmisch met veel dialogen en korte hoofdstukken waardoor je het boek bijna vanzelf blijft omslaan. De focus ligt volledig op Cara en dat werkt verrassend goed. Het maakt alleen maar nieuwsgieriger naar een toekomstig hoofdstuk vanuit Kieran. Vanaf de eerste bladzijde glijd je de wereld binnen zonder dat je het doorhebt. De wezens, de magie en de onderlinge verhoudingen komen helder en levendig naar voren zonder ooit te zwaar te worden. De combinatie van spanning, humor en een lichte vleug spice houdt het tempo hoog en het verhaal fris.
Een van de sterkste elementen is de groei die Cara doormaakt. Ze begint als iemand die vooral wordt gedreven door angst en verantwoordelijkheid maar ontwikkelt zich tot iemand die haar eigen kracht durft te claimen. De dynamiek tussen haar en Fieran geeft die ontwikkeling extra diepte. Hun interacties zijn intens en soms botsend, maar ook onverwacht zacht, waardoor elke scène samen iets bijzonders heeft.
Het einde laat genoeg open om meteen verder te willen lezen. De belofte van meer drakenlore, verborgen intriges binnen de faehiërarchie en hopelijk eindelijk een inkijkje in Kieran’s gedachten zorgt ervoor dat ’Kiss of Ashes’ niet alleen een sterk eerste deel is maar vooral het begin van iets dat nog veel grootser kan worden.
When Destiny Whispers Through Dragonfire in ’Kiss of Ashes’
In ’Kiss of Ashes’ the world is harsh, magical and unforgiving. The fae rule with an iron hand, humans stand at the bottom of the hierarchy and shifters maintain the balance of power. In the middle of all of this stands Cara, who has lost her magic and is desperately trying to prevent her sister from suffering the same fate while her brother grows sicker by the day. During an attack on their village, the powerful dragon shifter Fieran appears, a presence both mesmerizing and dangerous. He takes Cara to the Dragon Trials, convinced she has been marked by a dragon. If she manages to survive the trials, she can become a dragon shifter herself. He may be her greatest enemy, but he is also the only one who can help her save her family.
May Dawson writes with a light, rhythmic flow, using many dialogues and short chapters that make the book incredibly easy to fly through. The focus is entirely on Cara, and that works surprisingly well. It only makes the curiosity grow for a future chapter told from Kieran’s point of view. From the very first page, you slip into the world without even noticing. The creatures, the magic and the power dynamics come to life vividly without ever feeling overwhelming. The mix of tension, humor and a touch of spice keeps the pacing energetic and the story engaging.
One of the strongest elements is Cara’s growth. She begins as someone driven by fear and responsibility but gradually transforms into someone who dares to claim her own power. The dynamic between her and Fieran deepens that journey. Their interactions are intense and sometimes clashing, yet unexpectedly gentle at times, giving every scene between them something special.
The ending leaves plenty of room to dive straight into the next book. The promise of more dragon lore, hidden fae intrigues and hopefully a glimpse inside Kieran’s thoughts ensures that ’Kiss of Ashes’ is not only a strong first installment but also the beginning of something that could grow into much more.
***Dutch***
Wanneer het lot fluistert door drakenvuur in ’Kiss of Ashes’
In ’Kiss of Ashes’ is de wereld hard, magisch en genadeloos. De fae regeren, mensen staan onderaan de ladder en shifters bepalen het evenwicht. Te midden van die machtsstrijd staat Cara, die haar magie is kwijtgeraakt en wanhopig probeert te voorkomen dat haar zusje hetzelfde overkomt, terwijl haar broertje steeds zieker wordt. Tijdens een aanval op hun dorp verschijnt de indrukwekkende drakenshifter Fieran, een verschijning die even betoverend als gevaarlijk is. Hij neemt Cara mee naar de Dragon Trials, overtuigd dat zij gemarkeerd is door een draak. Als ze de proeven weet te doorstaan, kan ze zelf een drakenshifter worden. Hij is haar grootste tegenstander maar ook de enige die haar kan helpen haar familie te redden.
May Dawson schrijft luchtig en ritmisch met veel dialogen en korte hoofdstukken waardoor je het boek bijna vanzelf blijft omslaan. De focus ligt volledig op Cara en dat werkt verrassend goed. Het maakt alleen maar nieuwsgieriger naar een toekomstig hoofdstuk vanuit Kieran. Vanaf de eerste bladzijde glijd je de wereld binnen zonder dat je het doorhebt. De wezens, de magie en de onderlinge verhoudingen komen helder en levendig naar voren zonder ooit te zwaar te worden. De combinatie van spanning, humor en een lichte vleug spice houdt het tempo hoog en het verhaal fris.
Een van de sterkste elementen is de groei die Cara doormaakt. Ze begint als iemand die vooral wordt gedreven door angst en verantwoordelijkheid maar ontwikkelt zich tot iemand die haar eigen kracht durft te claimen. De dynamiek tussen haar en Fieran geeft die ontwikkeling extra diepte. Hun interacties zijn intens en soms botsend, maar ook onverwacht zacht, waardoor elke scène samen iets bijzonders heeft.
Het einde laat genoeg open om meteen verder te willen lezen. De belofte van meer drakenlore, verborgen intriges binnen de faehiërarchie en hopelijk eindelijk een inkijkje in Kieran’s gedachten zorgt ervoor dat ’Kiss of Ashes’ niet alleen een sterk eerste deel is maar vooral het begin van iets dat nog veel grootser kan worden.
December 11, 2025
The story feels all too familiar, treading well-worn paths with its straightforward plot, predictable characters, and generic magic system.
While the premise initially promises something engaging with siblings facing danger, it doesn’t quite deliver the excitement or originality one might hope for. Much of the world-building and fantastical elements come off as derivative, lacking the spark that would set this book apart from others in the genre.
The characters themselves fall into common archetypes. The heroine is burdened by her responsibilities, displaying a classic stubbornness and a tough exterior that slightly overcompensates for a lack of deeper development. Meanwhile, the male lead embodies the trope of the intimidating, misunderstood hero who, beneath his rough facade, has a heart of gold. While their dynamic can be enjoyable at times, it rarely surprises or moves beyond the expected.
One aspect that does stand out is the subplot of betrayal, adding a layer of intrigue to the otherwise standard storyline. Even so, it’s not enough to redeem the novel as a whole. The twists fail to make a significant impact, leaving the reader craving more substance and innovation.
All in all, Kiss of Ashes is a passable read for fans of standard fantasy romance but offers little to those searching for something truly new or memorable.
While the premise initially promises something engaging with siblings facing danger, it doesn’t quite deliver the excitement or originality one might hope for. Much of the world-building and fantastical elements come off as derivative, lacking the spark that would set this book apart from others in the genre.
The characters themselves fall into common archetypes. The heroine is burdened by her responsibilities, displaying a classic stubbornness and a tough exterior that slightly overcompensates for a lack of deeper development. Meanwhile, the male lead embodies the trope of the intimidating, misunderstood hero who, beneath his rough facade, has a heart of gold. While their dynamic can be enjoyable at times, it rarely surprises or moves beyond the expected.
One aspect that does stand out is the subplot of betrayal, adding a layer of intrigue to the otherwise standard storyline. Even so, it’s not enough to redeem the novel as a whole. The twists fail to make a significant impact, leaving the reader craving more substance and innovation.
All in all, Kiss of Ashes is a passable read for fans of standard fantasy romance but offers little to those searching for something truly new or memorable.
December 14, 2025
*M/F
*Romantasy
*FMC PoV only
*Dragon Shifters
*Evil Fae Queen
*FMC with secret
*Enemies to Something?
*Slow Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Super series starter
Wow the level of depth to this story and the engaging characters on this make it a great read!
Cara is our FMC, she trusts absolutely no-one and is not afraid of a verbal sparring, making this for an amusing read; in her defiance and the tongue lashings she hands out 😅 Fieran is our MMC who is deliberately antagonistic and has some cunning plans afoot which you feel have a bigger element to but you consistently kept guessing as to what they actually are 🙈 it makes for an engaging read as you seriously want to know what plan he has against the Fae Queen! There are certainly some sparks between our two MCs, and it’s clear there are feelings between them but some master plan is affecting that level of trust and further development between them 😳 very eagerly anticipating the next book 😁
*Romantasy
*FMC PoV only
*Dragon Shifters
*Evil Fae Queen
*FMC with secret
*Enemies to Something?
*Slow Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Super series starter
Wow the level of depth to this story and the engaging characters on this make it a great read!
Cara is our FMC, she trusts absolutely no-one and is not afraid of a verbal sparring, making this for an amusing read; in her defiance and the tongue lashings she hands out 😅 Fieran is our MMC who is deliberately antagonistic and has some cunning plans afoot which you feel have a bigger element to but you consistently kept guessing as to what they actually are 🙈 it makes for an engaging read as you seriously want to know what plan he has against the Fae Queen! There are certainly some sparks between our two MCs, and it’s clear there are feelings between them but some master plan is affecting that level of trust and further development between them 😳 very eagerly anticipating the next book 😁
December 15, 2025
Looking for a new series to dive into? Prepare to get swept away by this book with dragon shifters, an obstinate young woman, and her desire to protect her family.
Cara is a young woman who had her magic stripped away from her. Your first thought? That it was taken because she was dangerous. But that's just not the case. Because her sister has magic. Cara is an interesting character when the story starts off. She's near-sighted which for some reason really endears her to us. LOL! I like how she is protective of her family, and so when the dragon shifter makes an appearance and basically up-ends her world?! Well, cue jaw-drop, outrage on her behalf and more!
But this is just getting things started. Be prepared to not want to put this book down once you start reading it. This is the first book I've read by this author and I am greedily lurking about waiting for book two. I can't wait to find out what Cara has to go through next. Though I do hope that she tames the attitude a touch, because it does get to be a bit much.
Cara is a young woman who had her magic stripped away from her. Your first thought? That it was taken because she was dangerous. But that's just not the case. Because her sister has magic. Cara is an interesting character when the story starts off. She's near-sighted which for some reason really endears her to us. LOL! I like how she is protective of her family, and so when the dragon shifter makes an appearance and basically up-ends her world?! Well, cue jaw-drop, outrage on her behalf and more!
But this is just getting things started. Be prepared to not want to put this book down once you start reading it. This is the first book I've read by this author and I am greedily lurking about waiting for book two. I can't wait to find out what Cara has to go through next. Though I do hope that she tames the attitude a touch, because it does get to be a bit much.
December 6, 2025
4.5 Stars
Kiss of Ashes completely pulled me in. Dawson’s descriptions are so vivid I could feel, smell, and visualize every scene, her imagery is phenomenal. The banter between Cara and Fieran is razor-sharp and addictive; they can both dish it out and take the hits, and it makes their dynamic crackle.
“I always know I’m risking a stabbing when I touch you. It’s worth it.”
This book kept me on my toes the entire time. I never knew who to trust, what was true, or how I even wanted things to turn out.
The ending left me desperate for more in the best way. I’m ready for the next book now.
It could use a little bit of editing and there were minor plot holes. Mainly she already knows the mmc’s name but he was never introduced to her so it got confusing. Same for their clan name. She said it but I had to search in the book and found that her saying their clan name was the first time it’s mentioned in the book which doesn’t make sense, cause she knows next to nothing about the dragon shifters. So that happened a couple of times, missing context I guess. But the plot, the writing and the imagery are top notch so it’s easy to put those little things aside.
Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Kiss of Ashes completely pulled me in. Dawson’s descriptions are so vivid I could feel, smell, and visualize every scene, her imagery is phenomenal. The banter between Cara and Fieran is razor-sharp and addictive; they can both dish it out and take the hits, and it makes their dynamic crackle.
“I always know I’m risking a stabbing when I touch you. It’s worth it.”
This book kept me on my toes the entire time. I never knew who to trust, what was true, or how I even wanted things to turn out.
The ending left me desperate for more in the best way. I’m ready for the next book now.
It could use a little bit of editing and there were minor plot holes. Mainly she already knows the mmc’s name but he was never introduced to her so it got confusing. Same for their clan name. She said it but I had to search in the book and found that her saying their clan name was the first time it’s mentioned in the book which doesn’t make sense, cause she knows next to nothing about the dragon shifters. So that happened a couple of times, missing context I guess. But the plot, the writing and the imagery are top notch so it’s easy to put those little things aside.
Thank you to The Author Agency for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 23, 2025
It’s been a minute since I dove into a shifter series and this author is always good for one! The blending of Fae, Shifter, and Mortal lore into one world is excellent. The machinations of Fear, the Queen, and even Ander are insane, even when we don’t know the totality of their plots.
While Cara is a tad annoying for me, I understand her characterization. A young woman who lives her family above all else and will do absolutely anything to protect them. Unit has made her a liability to those around her, and herself. I am hoping that as this series progresses, she learns to think before speaking or acting. She’s being co rolled by her weakness right now, and that will lose the game for everyone. The strength is there, she’s just got to cultivate it.
While Cara is a tad annoying for me, I understand her characterization. A young woman who lives her family above all else and will do absolutely anything to protect them. Unit has made her a liability to those around her, and herself. I am hoping that as this series progresses, she learns to think before speaking or acting. She’s being co rolled by her weakness right now, and that will lose the game for everyone. The strength is there, she’s just got to cultivate it.
December 12, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
This one was a struggle for me to finish. I am glad that I did because the story definitely got better but I wasn’t fully invested until the last third of the book. This had a really good premise, but I felt like the world building wasn’t as well done as some of the authors that I’ve read recently, and I couldn’t get behind the MCs like I could with others.
In a world ruled by Fae, mortals have their magic stripped from them as children. There are dragon shifters that are meant to protect the world from monsters from other realms, but in order to be a dragon shifter you first have to be dragon marked then go through the Dragon Trials. Cara is an anomaly, the first ever mortal to be dragon marked. Whereas the others marked are Fae and take to an academy to train and learn their whole lives before the trials, Cara has none of that plus the added weakness of being human. Fieran and his clan of shifters show up in her village to save it from monsters that have crossed through a rip to the other realm when he discovers the secretly she’s been so desperately hiding. In order to help her dying brother and to help her little sister keep her magic she stayed in the village, keeping her mark hidden.
Now, however, she’s being forced to face the Trials with the hope that Fieran will find a way to heal her brother. Fieran has so many secrets and manipulations, and she knows he is using her as a way to create change, but even as she can’t trust him she needs him. Their attraction is electric despite her best efforts and when the queen gets involved in the manipulations things become a whole lot more dangerous. We’re left on a cliffhanger right when it’s starting to get good and want to know more, which is a little frustrating. Do I want to know what happens? Definitely. Is it a top priority to find out and I’m begging for the sequel? Not really. Would it be a re-read? No. Overall, great potential, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. #kissofashes #mkdawson #dragonbonding #trials #enemiestolovers #forcedproximity
This one was a struggle for me to finish. I am glad that I did because the story definitely got better but I wasn’t fully invested until the last third of the book. This had a really good premise, but I felt like the world building wasn’t as well done as some of the authors that I’ve read recently, and I couldn’t get behind the MCs like I could with others.
In a world ruled by Fae, mortals have their magic stripped from them as children. There are dragon shifters that are meant to protect the world from monsters from other realms, but in order to be a dragon shifter you first have to be dragon marked then go through the Dragon Trials. Cara is an anomaly, the first ever mortal to be dragon marked. Whereas the others marked are Fae and take to an academy to train and learn their whole lives before the trials, Cara has none of that plus the added weakness of being human. Fieran and his clan of shifters show up in her village to save it from monsters that have crossed through a rip to the other realm when he discovers the secretly she’s been so desperately hiding. In order to help her dying brother and to help her little sister keep her magic she stayed in the village, keeping her mark hidden.
Now, however, she’s being forced to face the Trials with the hope that Fieran will find a way to heal her brother. Fieran has so many secrets and manipulations, and she knows he is using her as a way to create change, but even as she can’t trust him she needs him. Their attraction is electric despite her best efforts and when the queen gets involved in the manipulations things become a whole lot more dangerous. We’re left on a cliffhanger right when it’s starting to get good and want to know more, which is a little frustrating. Do I want to know what happens? Definitely. Is it a top priority to find out and I’m begging for the sequel? Not really. Would it be a re-read? No. Overall, great potential, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. #kissofashes #mkdawson #dragonbonding #trials #enemiestolovers #forcedproximity
December 10, 2025
This book had me hooked from the very first chapter, truly impossible to put down! The tension, the stakes, the world-building… everything just clicks.
Cara, a mortal who once sold her magic to the fae, she carries the weight of her entire family on her shoulders. With her brother Tay growing weaker by the day, her mother drifting further away, and her younger sister Lidi, being bullied for her magic, Cara is just trying to hold everything together. Her father is a dragon shifter, but her mom refuses to give her any details about him
Then one morning, everything changes: a wyrm attacks Lidi’s school. Armed with nothing but a shovel, Cara stands her ground to protect herself an the children. Just when things look dire, a dragon shifter, Fieran, swoops in to save her. More wyrms descend, the clan arrives, and the battle sparks a bond between Cara and Fieran that neither of them expected.
As monsters begin slipping into the city, the dragon shifters stay to defend the human citizens. But during another attack, Fieran uses Lidi’s magic to restore his magic, and when he discovers Cara bears a dragon-shifter mark, everything changes.
Angry and betrayed, Cara agrees to return with Fieran to the fae lands to compete in the dragon-shifter trials… but only if he heals her brother and restores her sister’s magic.
Secrets pile up, trust frays on both sides, and the fae world is filled with cruelty, enslaved humans, and a queen as vicious as she is powerful. Through it all, Fieran’s fierce protectiveness and Cara’s determination make this a gripping, high-stakes fantasy.
If you love dragons, fae politics, relentless tension, and slow-burn trust, this book is such a ride. 🐉✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️
♦️Fated mates
♦️Dragon shifters
♦️Trials
♦️Fae
♦️Enemies to lovers
♦️Forced proximity
♦️Touch her and die
Cara, a mortal who once sold her magic to the fae, she carries the weight of her entire family on her shoulders. With her brother Tay growing weaker by the day, her mother drifting further away, and her younger sister Lidi, being bullied for her magic, Cara is just trying to hold everything together. Her father is a dragon shifter, but her mom refuses to give her any details about him
Then one morning, everything changes: a wyrm attacks Lidi’s school. Armed with nothing but a shovel, Cara stands her ground to protect herself an the children. Just when things look dire, a dragon shifter, Fieran, swoops in to save her. More wyrms descend, the clan arrives, and the battle sparks a bond between Cara and Fieran that neither of them expected.
As monsters begin slipping into the city, the dragon shifters stay to defend the human citizens. But during another attack, Fieran uses Lidi’s magic to restore his magic, and when he discovers Cara bears a dragon-shifter mark, everything changes.
Angry and betrayed, Cara agrees to return with Fieran to the fae lands to compete in the dragon-shifter trials… but only if he heals her brother and restores her sister’s magic.
Secrets pile up, trust frays on both sides, and the fae world is filled with cruelty, enslaved humans, and a queen as vicious as she is powerful. Through it all, Fieran’s fierce protectiveness and Cara’s determination make this a gripping, high-stakes fantasy.
If you love dragons, fae politics, relentless tension, and slow-burn trust, this book is such a ride. 🐉✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️
♦️Fated mates
♦️Dragon shifters
♦️Trials
♦️Fae
♦️Enemies to lovers
♦️Forced proximity
♦️Touch her and die
December 14, 2025
I have read books by this author before, but under a slightly different pen name, and I have to say that she didn't disappoint at all. The fae rule, while the dragons are set with the task of protecting the mortals from monsters that come through the rifts. Cara lives with he mum, little sister and slightly younger brother. Her brother is sick, her sister is still in school, and she and her mother do the jobs they can to try to afford to get her brother healed. But there is a simple solution: take her little sister to the Fae so they can take her magic in exchange for healing her brother. But Cara wants things to change; she wants to find a way to save her brother's life and her sister's magic, no matter what it costs her.
Everything changes when her village is attacked, and she decides to take on one of the creatures before the dragons can arrive to help. This sets her in the sights of Fieran, the leader of his clan, and he doesn't want to let her go.
I love how determined Cara is, and her sense of humour and back chat comments had me laughing throughout. Fieran is interesting; he's more like an onion with several layers that need peeling away to get to the real person hiding underneath. There's also Ander, the leader of another dragon clan and ex-best friend of Fieran. I'm still intrigued to see what's gonna happen between him and Cara if anything. There is definitely the chance of making it MFM if the author wanted to, but I'm currently undecided which of those plans she is going to go with.
Everything changes when her village is attacked, and she decides to take on one of the creatures before the dragons can arrive to help. This sets her in the sights of Fieran, the leader of his clan, and he doesn't want to let her go.
I love how determined Cara is, and her sense of humour and back chat comments had me laughing throughout. Fieran is interesting; he's more like an onion with several layers that need peeling away to get to the real person hiding underneath. There's also Ander, the leader of another dragon clan and ex-best friend of Fieran. I'm still intrigued to see what's gonna happen between him and Cara if anything. There is definitely the chance of making it MFM if the author wanted to, but I'm currently undecided which of those plans she is going to go with.
December 11, 2025
I was utterly captivated by this spellbinding story of lies, love, and dragons!! This book was so good, beyond good! It blew all my expectations away with how powerfully it impacted me. I tried so had to savior it because I honestly never wanted it to end!! I only put it down long enough to go out to feed my horses.
I absolutely loved Cara! She was such a fun character who had such a spunky personality. I loved the grouchy black cat energy she exudes while also being so selfless when it comes to her siblings. She came across as really relatable and I loved that she didn't back down from everything that was thrown at her. I really appreciated her quick wit and all the sarcastic banter she had with Fieran.
I was instantly enamored by Fieran. I wouldn't have stood a chance against his charming personality because I found him striking and irresistible. He had such a great energy about him and I loved how perfectly he matched Cara while also irritating her just enough to bring out all the angsty tension between them.
This was a riveting story that grabbed me from the first chapter. It was exciting and intense and kept me guessing. The banter was fantastic with some truly laugh out loud moments. The writing was so pure that the feelings came across as true and were deep and long-lasting. I know I will have a hangover from this book for a long time. I would very highly recommend it!!
I absolutely loved Cara! She was such a fun character who had such a spunky personality. I loved the grouchy black cat energy she exudes while also being so selfless when it comes to her siblings. She came across as really relatable and I loved that she didn't back down from everything that was thrown at her. I really appreciated her quick wit and all the sarcastic banter she had with Fieran.
I was instantly enamored by Fieran. I wouldn't have stood a chance against his charming personality because I found him striking and irresistible. He had such a great energy about him and I loved how perfectly he matched Cara while also irritating her just enough to bring out all the angsty tension between them.
This was a riveting story that grabbed me from the first chapter. It was exciting and intense and kept me guessing. The banter was fantastic with some truly laugh out loud moments. The writing was so pure that the feelings came across as true and were deep and long-lasting. I know I will have a hangover from this book for a long time. I would very highly recommend it!!
December 6, 2025
May Dawson is writing under a new pen name with this one, switching to MF romantasy with a found family vibe. Written in single POV, we really get to know Cara and I have to say: I love her! The thorns on the cover already give away her prickly attitude, and I adore her for it. No gullible lovesick fool this time, but a woman who is constantly suspicious of both good and bad intentions. It’s rare to see a character doubt other people’s intentions this much, but she absolutely needs it to survive the fae.
Dragons aren’t exactly new in the world of fantasy romance, but I do like the idea of shifters needing to be chosen by a dragon in their adult lives. Also, the amount of intrigue in what’s only the beginning of these people’s story is massive, and there are so many questions lingering at the end of this first book. Every new answer seems to open up a can of new questions, and I’m a little desperate for answers at this point!
It’s books like these that make me consider adding more MF romances to my tbr, even though that means it won’t be enough to ask a vampire to make me immortal anymore to complete them all. I would need to find someone to build multiple clones of me and then find a vampire to make all of those immortal… So be wary of exploding tbr’s once you go down this road; this story is addictive.
Dragons aren’t exactly new in the world of fantasy romance, but I do like the idea of shifters needing to be chosen by a dragon in their adult lives. Also, the amount of intrigue in what’s only the beginning of these people’s story is massive, and there are so many questions lingering at the end of this first book. Every new answer seems to open up a can of new questions, and I’m a little desperate for answers at this point!
It’s books like these that make me consider adding more MF romances to my tbr, even though that means it won’t be enough to ask a vampire to make me immortal anymore to complete them all. I would need to find someone to build multiple clones of me and then find a vampire to make all of those immortal… So be wary of exploding tbr’s once you go down this road; this story is addictive.
December 21, 2025
Kiss of Ashes is worth the wait especially if you need a new fantasy to dive into. It swept me into a dangerous, vividly imagined world where Fae rule, mortals sacrifice everything, and dragon shifters blur the line between saviour and villain. M.K. Dawson’s writing is immersive and atmospheric, grounding the fantasy in raw emotion, sharp tension, and high stakes that never let up.
Cara is a standout heroine—sharp-tongued, resilient, and fiercely devoted to her siblings. She has that prickly, no-nonsense exterior paired with a deeply compassionate core, and I loved how she never shrinks herself, no matter the danger surrounding her.
Enter Fieran: commanding, alluring, and just the right amount of infuriating. His chemistry with Cara is electric, fueled by sharp banter, simmering tension, and a magnetic pull neither of them can ignore. Together, they’re volatile in the best way.
Between the Dragon Trials, whispered secrets, and the constant question of who can truly be trusted, this story keeps the tension high and the pages turning. It’s intense, addictive, and emotionally resonant—exactly the kind of fantasy romance that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished.
A huge thank you to May and The Author for the ARC! This was a gripping, emotionally charged read I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Cara is a standout heroine—sharp-tongued, resilient, and fiercely devoted to her siblings. She has that prickly, no-nonsense exterior paired with a deeply compassionate core, and I loved how she never shrinks herself, no matter the danger surrounding her.
Enter Fieran: commanding, alluring, and just the right amount of infuriating. His chemistry with Cara is electric, fueled by sharp banter, simmering tension, and a magnetic pull neither of them can ignore. Together, they’re volatile in the best way.
Between the Dragon Trials, whispered secrets, and the constant question of who can truly be trusted, this story keeps the tension high and the pages turning. It’s intense, addictive, and emotionally resonant—exactly the kind of fantasy romance that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve finished.
A huge thank you to May and The Author for the ARC! This was a gripping, emotionally charged read I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
December 13, 2025
I love May Dawson, and this new series is no exception.
A woman who is hiding a secret that can kill her, or potentially save them all.
A dragon shifter who is looking to change the quid pro quo of how mortals and shifters are treated.
A building inferno between the two, but neither is willing to trust the other for reasons of their own.
Here we have secrets upon secrets upon secrets, and they keep coming until the very last page. I love the banter between Cara and Fieran. I love his unwavering belief and understanding of Cara. I do NOT love the poor choices Cara makes because she is too stubborn to open her heart not only to Fieran, but also to his clan. But hey, we wouldn't have a story if everyone acted like a rational, well-adjusted adult. We have a beautiful start to an epic love story, political intrigue, and the beginning of healing for many characters who were hurt in the past.
Spicy: 1.75/5 but it is pretty slow burn until the end, and knowing this author she will bring the heat.
MF
Triggers: There is physical assault done to the FM in the name of "training" but not by the MM, mental coercion of a family member, and what are essentially games to the potential ☠️
A woman who is hiding a secret that can kill her, or potentially save them all.
A dragon shifter who is looking to change the quid pro quo of how mortals and shifters are treated.
A building inferno between the two, but neither is willing to trust the other for reasons of their own.
Here we have secrets upon secrets upon secrets, and they keep coming until the very last page. I love the banter between Cara and Fieran. I love his unwavering belief and understanding of Cara. I do NOT love the poor choices Cara makes because she is too stubborn to open her heart not only to Fieran, but also to his clan. But hey, we wouldn't have a story if everyone acted like a rational, well-adjusted adult. We have a beautiful start to an epic love story, political intrigue, and the beginning of healing for many characters who were hurt in the past.
Spicy: 1.75/5 but it is pretty slow burn until the end, and knowing this author she will bring the heat.
MF
Triggers: There is physical assault done to the FM in the name of "training" but not by the MM, mental coercion of a family member, and what are essentially games to the potential ☠️
December 15, 2025
The blurb about this book was very distracting. I spent the entire first hundred pages waiting for a dragon to steal Lidi's magic. It somehow made me less invested in what was a very slow beginning. Cara is a twenty something woman living with her mother, sickly brother, Tay, and young sister Lidi. The social structural appears to include the high powered fae, simple mortals who may have magic, and a breed of fae who can house dragons, dragon shifters. The fae can extracted mortals magic in exchange for services and both Cara and Tay have already sold their own magic. Tay is so sick he needs a special fae cure and the mother wants to take Lidi's magic to save his life. Further complications exist because Cara is a rare, hidden, dragon marked mortal due to her unknown bio father. The family has broken the law hiding her. Handsome dragon shifters come to her remote village to fight monsters that come through rifts and she meets one who is fascinated by her. The story evolves to include the fae royals, dragon shifter trials, intrigue and danger. I found it to be well written, but rather slow and complicated.
December 15, 2025
Kiss of Ashes is the first book in this fantasy series. This world of fae, shifters, orcs, and mortals was done so beautifully. This is M/F storyline with slow burn so have patience.
I love the whole secrets, built inside a mystery, inside another secret. This is one of those books where you keep wondering what's next. Does Cara actually have anyone on her side or are they all just playing their own game? And what is the goal of the game? And who really wins or do they all lose?
The banter between Cara and Fire made the book. The way he takes her insults and somehow makes her smile. And Cara's loyalty to her family and the fierceness she defends others are some of her best qualities...along with brave, compassionate, and funny. She knows she has no choice but to go through the trials or burn. She just wants to save her brother and get her sister's magic back. Not find herself in a dangerous plot with magic, dragons, and fae royalty.
And that ending had me wondering what's next. I know there are so many more secrets that haven't even entered Cara's head...that I can't wait to read next book!
I love the whole secrets, built inside a mystery, inside another secret. This is one of those books where you keep wondering what's next. Does Cara actually have anyone on her side or are they all just playing their own game? And what is the goal of the game? And who really wins or do they all lose?
The banter between Cara and Fire made the book. The way he takes her insults and somehow makes her smile. And Cara's loyalty to her family and the fierceness she defends others are some of her best qualities...along with brave, compassionate, and funny. She knows she has no choice but to go through the trials or burn. She just wants to save her brother and get her sister's magic back. Not find herself in a dangerous plot with magic, dragons, and fae royalty.
And that ending had me wondering what's next. I know there are so many more secrets that haven't even entered Cara's head...that I can't wait to read next book!
December 24, 2025
Who doesn't love a good dragon shifter story?! I loved this different twist about dragons and shifters with dragon borns and their bond. Our FMC, Cara, is an anomality as she is a mortal yet is dragon marked that she has hid her whole life. What. magic she had was stripped when she was a child like every other mortal. She is determined to see her brother healed and for her sister to keep her magic as well as keep her dragon mark hidden. Enter our MMC, Fieran, and he blows up all her carefully laid plans and whisks her away to the dragon trials for all dragon marked. Fieran, "Fear," is a master manipulator with so many dang secrets. But he has met his match with Cara as she starts to unravel everything and starts chipping away at his master plan that involves her. The book ends with her piecing a lot of it together but there are still so many questions left unanswered. I am dying to learn who Cara's father is and why she is the only ever mortal to be dragon marked. This book was THICK and I have a feeling the next one will be as well as there is so much ground to cover. I devoured this one and can't wait for book 2!
January 9, 2026
May gives us a fantastic beginning to a new series/duet! Cara's story begins with her living at home with her mom, slightly younger brother and much younger sister. She works, as does her mom to be able to afford the healing her dying brother desperately needs. Then one day, after walking to school, the school is attacked by monsters and she grabs a shovel to try to protect those inside and the few kids who were trying to get to safety when they are saved by dragon shifter, Fieran, and members of his clan. After the attack is thwarted, Fieran notices that she is dragon marked and after taking her sister's magic to heal himself and one of his clan members during another attack, he forces her to go with him back to the capital for the dragon trials which are about to begin. To find out how they get from there to their mind blowing cliffhanger, dive into this beautifully written story with complex characters and plot twists that keep you guessing and turning pages throughout. I loved reading about Cara and Fieran and her snark, his plotting and the other relationships around them. I highly recommend this book! Don't miss out on this book!!
December 17, 2025
Oh my what an adventure. Miss Dawson took me on the most exhilarating adventure through the pages of her latest book Kiss of Ashes. I loved the action and the slow burn of romance throughout the storyline. From Family, Dragon Shifters, Building heated romance Kiss of Ashes has it all.
I especially loved characters. The FMC is so strong that she has a hard time of seeing her own strengths accept when it comes to her siblings. She puts herself in front of danger to protect them... And that is what I love about her the most.
The MMC a very handsome strong character and extremely cocky for his own good until me meets the FMC. She calls him on his cockiness every step of the way.
I loved how the FMC makes friends with Kiegan who is an amazing ally and becomes even an awesome friend. Then there is Anayla who is the MMC's second in command I love how she works with the FMC.
So, If you enjoy Plot Twists, Hot Dragon Shifters, Strong Opinionated FMCs, Cocky Handsome MMC's and Heated Romance then this is the book for you. I'm looking forward to reading what will happen next.
I especially loved characters. The FMC is so strong that she has a hard time of seeing her own strengths accept when it comes to her siblings. She puts herself in front of danger to protect them... And that is what I love about her the most.
The MMC a very handsome strong character and extremely cocky for his own good until me meets the FMC. She calls him on his cockiness every step of the way.
I loved how the FMC makes friends with Kiegan who is an amazing ally and becomes even an awesome friend. Then there is Anayla who is the MMC's second in command I love how she works with the FMC.
So, If you enjoy Plot Twists, Hot Dragon Shifters, Strong Opinionated FMCs, Cocky Handsome MMC's and Heated Romance then this is the book for you. I'm looking forward to reading what will happen next.
December 28, 2025
Kiss of Ashes- 10000/5 stars, no notes, only feelings
I don’t even know where to start except to say: I loved this book. Like, obsessed loved. This is easily one of my favorite reads, and May Dawson once again proves why she’s one of my all time favorite authors. Her dragon books already own my soul, and Kiss of Ashes just reinforced that.
The worldbuilding is rich, the characters are layered and compelling, and the emotional and magical threads woven through the story completely hooked me. I devoured this book and immediately wanted more. Which brings me to my one emotional crisis: if this is truly a standalone, that feels almost cruel. There are so many loose threads, unanswered questions, and story potential that I cannot believe this world is done.
If it is a standalone, it’s a heartbreaking one, not because it isn’t complete, but because it leaves you desperately wanting to stay. And honestly? I don’t think this story is finished. It feels like the beginning of something bigger, and I am absolutely hoping for more.
I don’t even know where to start except to say: I loved this book. Like, obsessed loved. This is easily one of my favorite reads, and May Dawson once again proves why she’s one of my all time favorite authors. Her dragon books already own my soul, and Kiss of Ashes just reinforced that.
The worldbuilding is rich, the characters are layered and compelling, and the emotional and magical threads woven through the story completely hooked me. I devoured this book and immediately wanted more. Which brings me to my one emotional crisis: if this is truly a standalone, that feels almost cruel. There are so many loose threads, unanswered questions, and story potential that I cannot believe this world is done.
If it is a standalone, it’s a heartbreaking one, not because it isn’t complete, but because it leaves you desperately wanting to stay. And honestly? I don’t think this story is finished. It feels like the beginning of something bigger, and I am absolutely hoping for more.
December 14, 2025
From the first chapter, Kiss of Ashes throws you into a brutal, mesmerising world where Fae dominate, mortals are pawns and magic is currency. This fantasy debut blends dragon, Fae politics, and survivalist grit into a narrative that feels sharp, raw and unflinching.
What stood out the most was the world building, lush yet oppressive, every shadow carrying danger. Cara's journey from powerless victim to reluctant fighter is layered with vulnerability and resilience, making her arc both compelling and cathartic. The dragon trails are tense and cinematic.
Cara and Fieron's relationship adds tension to the story without softening it's edge. Their dynamic is tense, layered, and threaded with respect. It's not just romance, it's a collision of survival, politics and desire.
Kiss of Ashes is dark gripping fantasy debut that lingers after the last page. It is smokey, sharp and unforgettable.
What stood out the most was the world building, lush yet oppressive, every shadow carrying danger. Cara's journey from powerless victim to reluctant fighter is layered with vulnerability and resilience, making her arc both compelling and cathartic. The dragon trails are tense and cinematic.
Cara and Fieron's relationship adds tension to the story without softening it's edge. Their dynamic is tense, layered, and threaded with respect. It's not just romance, it's a collision of survival, politics and desire.
Kiss of Ashes is dark gripping fantasy debut that lingers after the last page. It is smokey, sharp and unforgettable.
December 17, 2025
The way this book consumed my life. I sat down, read the first chapters and the next thing I know, hours had gone by! The world building?! Absolutely phenomenal, the intricate detail and descriptions were done so well! The characters?! Oh my these characters * chef’s Kiss* Cara is stubborn and strong willed and loves her siblings so much she is willing to do anything for them, When she is put in precarious situations as a mortal thrust into the fae world we really start to see just how clever she is. She may stumble but our girl keeps moving forward. With Fear now in her life, there is never a dull moment and the story really starts to pick up as the dragon marked get ready for the trials. The banter, the drama, the spice and trouble these two main characters get into is oh so well done! This book really captured my attention with its indicated world bullying, phenomenal characters and solid plot. I loved everything about this one!
December 17, 2025
Dragon shifter stories are always a great genre especially when written by Dawson. This book is no exception. Cara is a fiercely loyal mortal set on protecting her family and stepping up where her mother falls short. Half human/half shifter, Cara hides from the Fae and Shifters that can force her away from her family to fight in an arena for support.
After a village attack she is swept away to the Fae city by the enigmatic Fieran who has schemes upon schemes. Now Cara must navigate her new status and stay alive while knowing she can trust no one. Fieran and Cara's banter is exciting and funny. The potential for the series has great possibilities.
The couple of criticisms I have is the bit of repetitiveness in the banter. There is a lot of talking and the story was moving slow, but that may be with the intention of building Cara and Fieran's characters so they can dazzle us in an exciting book two.
After a village attack she is swept away to the Fae city by the enigmatic Fieran who has schemes upon schemes. Now Cara must navigate her new status and stay alive while knowing she can trust no one. Fieran and Cara's banter is exciting and funny. The potential for the series has great possibilities.
The couple of criticisms I have is the bit of repetitiveness in the banter. There is a lot of talking and the story was moving slow, but that may be with the intention of building Cara and Fieran's characters so they can dazzle us in an exciting book two.
December 31, 2025
I am already so obsessed with this series and we are only on book one. This is one of my favorite authors and when I saw she had a new dragon shifter series coming out I knew I had to read it. She has a way of building these amazing worlds and amazing characters that you get pulled into the story and cannot put it down. This new series is no exception. It’s a little different from her usually style with it being a F/M instead of RH but it is still an amazing story.
We have our female main character Cara and our male main character Fieran. He is a dragon shifter and claims she is dragon marked. Sje wants nothing more than to save her family but ends up entangled with this dragon prince. She is drawn to him but she wants to help and save her family.
The back and forth banter and the ever unfolding secrets keep me glued to the pages and wanting more. Absolutely give it a try and take a dive into this new world.
We have our female main character Cara and our male main character Fieran. He is a dragon shifter and claims she is dragon marked. Sje wants nothing more than to save her family but ends up entangled with this dragon prince. She is drawn to him but she wants to help and save her family.
The back and forth banter and the ever unfolding secrets keep me glued to the pages and wanting more. Absolutely give it a try and take a dive into this new world.
December 15, 2025
New dragon story with a tenacious FMC. Our FMC, Cara, is a human with a pretty big secret, she's dragon marked. Humans aren't dragon marked and what little magic they have is always stripped by the Fae. Determined to see her brother healed, her little sister keep her magic, and oh by the way, hide her dragon mark, Cara's goals go awry when a wyrm attacks and dragons show up in her town. Enter our MMC, Fieran, who is hard to get a read on sometimes. He's charming, likes to banter, but is a bit broody.
With a lot on the line, like her life, Cara, with the help of Fieran and his friends, fights in the Fae Queen's trials to survive and possibly become a dragon shifter. The banter between Cara and Fieran sometimes took me a minute to get, but maybe that's my brain. Overall, I had fun reading this book and look forward to book 2!
With a lot on the line, like her life, Cara, with the help of Fieran and his friends, fights in the Fae Queen's trials to survive and possibly become a dragon shifter. The banter between Cara and Fieran sometimes took me a minute to get, but maybe that's my brain. Overall, I had fun reading this book and look forward to book 2!
December 16, 2025
Love this author, Love this book.
WOW what more can happen to this poor lady and her family. They can’t catch a break. Cara fights to save her sister from a wyrm attack and a dragon shifter sees it all happen. He starts to take her with them and she helps out and is not afraid of fighting and helping others. She starts to fall for Fierian until he does something she can’t forgive. He takes her sister’s magic. The magic they were going to trade to the fae to get a cure to help her brother who is slowly coming closer to death each day that passes. She has a different father than her siblings and her mother won’t give her information about him. She ends up going with the dragons to the trials. This book has so many twists and turns and it leaves you wondering what will happen next. This is a slow burn. I can’t wait to read the next book.
WOW what more can happen to this poor lady and her family. They can’t catch a break. Cara fights to save her sister from a wyrm attack and a dragon shifter sees it all happen. He starts to take her with them and she helps out and is not afraid of fighting and helping others. She starts to fall for Fierian until he does something she can’t forgive. He takes her sister’s magic. The magic they were going to trade to the fae to get a cure to help her brother who is slowly coming closer to death each day that passes. She has a different father than her siblings and her mother won’t give her information about him. She ends up going with the dragons to the trials. This book has so many twists and turns and it leaves you wondering what will happen next. This is a slow burn. I can’t wait to read the next book.
January 11, 2026
M.k.d. have written such Amazing book i loved her book kiss of ashes. I love following fmc in her journey and i loved to read her growth as a character…. I just really love the Way these authors writes… all the books she writes is always soo good and always keeps me on my toes… the Way their writing is soo intresting.. i have loved all the books i have read by her… i love the fmc story and i love watching her realstionship with grow stronger and stronger…. i really loved the twist and turn…This really Kept my interest the whole Way and i really loves this book…this book was freaking good.. What this author comes up with next
I highly recommed that people read her book book kiss of ashes .. and if you haven’t read this book yet Then What are you waiting for you are really missing out on something…. book kiss of ashes is such a good book
I highly recommed that people read her book book kiss of ashes .. and if you haven’t read this book yet Then What are you waiting for you are really missing out on something…. book kiss of ashes is such a good book
December 13, 2025
You'll get sucked in!
This is May Dawson's debut M/F romantasy novel, writing under the pen name M.K. Dawson.
Cara lives in a world where humans are born with magic, but it is given up to the Fae in exchange for favors.
One day, Cara catches the eye of a dragon shifter when she commits an act of bravery. She's then pulled into the world of the Fae and finds herself an unwilling pawn as two factions attempt to exploit her to their benefit as she's forced into participating in the Dragon Trials. Her family's safety depends on her choices.
What will Cara do? Fall for the beguiling words of the most infuriating (yet alluring) man she's ever met? Or follow the machinations of the Fae who wants to be rid of the man she's attracted to?
This is the first 5-star M/F read I've had in a while! Both the story line and character development are top tier! You'd be a fool not to read this!
This is May Dawson's debut M/F romantasy novel, writing under the pen name M.K. Dawson.
Cara lives in a world where humans are born with magic, but it is given up to the Fae in exchange for favors.
One day, Cara catches the eye of a dragon shifter when she commits an act of bravery. She's then pulled into the world of the Fae and finds herself an unwilling pawn as two factions attempt to exploit her to their benefit as she's forced into participating in the Dragon Trials. Her family's safety depends on her choices.
What will Cara do? Fall for the beguiling words of the most infuriating (yet alluring) man she's ever met? Or follow the machinations of the Fae who wants to be rid of the man she's attracted to?
This is the first 5-star M/F read I've had in a while! Both the story line and character development are top tier! You'd be a fool not to read this!
December 11, 2025
Ok, first off holy roller coasters of emotions in this book. I knew I would love it because I love everything written by this author! There was a time when Cara had to say her goodbye's that I was legit sobbing. I felt every emotion in this book. Cara will do whatever it takes for her siblings. She may not out herself first, but she has no hesitation to do what is best for them. What happens when she can't keep her secret hidden any longer? In walks Fieran. Oh Fear.... there were times I loved you and times I was ready to knock you out. However, as the story unfolds and we learn more on what he is the way he is you start to understand the very complex man. Will Cara do what she must in time? Ohhhhh I need so much more!!! Such a good book. I cannot wait to see where Cara and Fieran end up!
December 10, 2025
Ms Dawson is one of my favourite writers so I was definitely going to get my hands on this book that was written under her new pen name. I practically inhaled this book in one day because It totally gripped me from start to finish.
The dynamic and banter between Cara & Fieran was a source of humour but it was also witty too. It's the lies and underhand people throughout this book that kept me on my toes. More so with Fieran who we don't know if we can trust him or not all the way through this book which made for a knockout read. That ending was a jaw dropper and with some unanswered questions that I still have from this book in hoping that this isn't the end? We'll see
The dynamic and banter between Cara & Fieran was a source of humour but it was also witty too. It's the lies and underhand people throughout this book that kept me on my toes. More so with Fieran who we don't know if we can trust him or not all the way through this book which made for a knockout read. That ending was a jaw dropper and with some unanswered questions that I still have from this book in hoping that this isn't the end? We'll see
December 11, 2025
Really good beginning to this series. Cara, a mortal, and Fieran, a dragon shifter, feel an instant connection to one another, even though she doesn’t really trust him, but she thinks he and his clan will be leaving her village soon. Her trust is further destroyed after he convinces her sister to give up her magic to save another shifter in his clan. Because she is now forced to participate in the dragon trials, Cara must rely on Fieran and his clan for training. She begins to understand him and his machinations, and they get closer. Very slow burn and low spice as the world building happens and relationships build and grow. Can’t wait for the next book!!!
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