What do you think?
Rate this book
Emberstone #2
Lord of Dragons
Finngavin Ivarsson’s life has already been turned on its head, but hidden secrets and phantom threats don’t make growing up any easier. Betrayal, intrigue and his own feelings of inadequacy weave a burdensome reality for the sixteen-year-old lad. Can Finn overcome the accusations, attacks and insults hurled at him like spears? Can he fulfill the life he was called to, or will he always be limited?
As the threat to his village grows, Finn must find his place, or his enemies may yet find ways to discredit him, leaving him without a purpose or a home.
Lord of Dragons is Book Two of The Emberstone Trilogy, a faith-filled story that weaves Christian themes and scripture into an intricate fantasy world and explores the complexities of growing up in a fun, winding adventure of political intrigue, animal companions and strong friendships, with a dash of sweet romance and mystery.
As the threat to his village grows, Finn must find his place, or his enemies may yet find ways to discredit him, leaving him without a purpose or a home.
Lord of Dragons is Book Two of The Emberstone Trilogy, a faith-filled story that weaves Christian themes and scripture into an intricate fantasy world and explores the complexities of growing up in a fun, winding adventure of political intrigue, animal companions and strong friendships, with a dash of sweet romance and mystery.
Paperback
Published January 30, 2026
1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Jordan
10 books31 followersKathryn Jordan is an indie author who writes faith-filled, YA and NA fantasy. She likes to describe herself as neurospicy, slightly unhinged, and unapologetically weird. She enjoys digital art, taking walks, watching crows, and reading books by her fellow indie authors. Much of her time is dedicated to raising and homeschooling her three awesome kids, but creating is a nonnegotiable outlet, a creature within she must heed.
Her works include the Keeper of Light series, The Girl Who Has Stars on Her Shoulder (a companion novel), The Wolf Warden, and House of Dragons (Book One of The Emberstone Trilogy). Visit her official website to explore her books, connect on social media, and more!
Her works include the Keeper of Light series, The Girl Who Has Stars on Her Shoulder (a companion novel), The Wolf Warden, and House of Dragons (Book One of The Emberstone Trilogy). Visit her official website to explore her books, connect on social media, and more!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Read
February 1, 2026I enjoyed the first book in this series and was so excited for the second book. Oh, Wow! This book has impressed me with how effortlessly it included scripture as a main element in the story. Each of the four houses has a song that is a crucial part of the story. The songs are made up of scripture. I loved seeing how the characters were encouraged and recieved hope and wisdom from the songs. Their desire to live a life in obedience to The Eternal was admirable. This book had so much encouragement for anyone that has felt discouraged, like they are not enough or have nothing of value to contribute. There is a lame girl and I loved what was said to her when she expressed that sentiment.
My favorite quote
“Because I’m practically useless!” she shot back, then lowered her voice. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you.” “I used to feel the same way, Freya. I thought I had nothing to contribute. But you know what I’ve seen in you? I’ve seen a woman who brings smiles to people’s faces with her own. I’ve seen a woman who captivates children with her storytelling. A woman who has more grace in her heart than any of the Gracefuls have in their feet. Who are we to limit The Eternal? He wove each of us in our mother’s womb, remember? We are awesomely and wonderfully made. The Eternal wasn’t taken by surprise when you were born with crooked feet. He saw you when you were made in secret. So, no matter what, I know you have an amazing purpose. Maybe you can’t contribute much physically, but your spirit has something far more valuable to offer. Remember that.”
Wow!!!! This book is full of truth.
I cannot recomend this book enough. It is a series I am buying to have on my shelves for my grandkids!
I receieved an ARC copy, all thoughts are my own.
My favorite quote
“Because I’m practically useless!” she shot back, then lowered her voice. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you.” “I used to feel the same way, Freya. I thought I had nothing to contribute. But you know what I’ve seen in you? I’ve seen a woman who brings smiles to people’s faces with her own. I’ve seen a woman who captivates children with her storytelling. A woman who has more grace in her heart than any of the Gracefuls have in their feet. Who are we to limit The Eternal? He wove each of us in our mother’s womb, remember? We are awesomely and wonderfully made. The Eternal wasn’t taken by surprise when you were born with crooked feet. He saw you when you were made in secret. So, no matter what, I know you have an amazing purpose. Maybe you can’t contribute much physically, but your spirit has something far more valuable to offer. Remember that.”
Wow!!!! This book is full of truth.
I cannot recomend this book enough. It is a series I am buying to have on my shelves for my grandkids!
I receieved an ARC copy, all thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy
Kathryn has done it again! Lord of Dragons follows House of Dragons by expanding the world, building friendships, and layering danger while amping up the stakes.
My favorite part of this book is the friendship/love arcs. I won't spoil them, but I truly enjoyed the mature, healthy ways the relationships are written. It's refreshing to see romance written in a way that is respectful and not about what the characters get out of the relationships but rather what they can give.
The story line is a beautiful redemption arc as well, as characters who were broken and hurt are brought back into relationship with those who love them and, the treatment of Finn's own growth into his calling is very well done!
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a sweet romance with a side of danger and a charming village coming together to fight a tragic villain.
I received an ARC copy of Lord of Dragons. All opinions are my own.
My favorite part of this book is the friendship/love arcs. I won't spoil them, but I truly enjoyed the mature, healthy ways the relationships are written. It's refreshing to see romance written in a way that is respectful and not about what the characters get out of the relationships but rather what they can give.
The story line is a beautiful redemption arc as well, as characters who were broken and hurt are brought back into relationship with those who love them and, the treatment of Finn's own growth into his calling is very well done!
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a sweet romance with a side of danger and a charming village coming together to fight a tragic villain.
I received an ARC copy of Lord of Dragons. All opinions are my own.
February 2, 2026
I absolutely adore Kathryn’s writing style and world building. The way she crafts her characters and their stories is so seamless. They feel like real people with the real conflicts of life. Her biblical themes and scripture woven through the world and faith of the village is so unique! I love how it was expounded upon in book 2!
Loved everything about this book 🫶🏼 and can’t wait to see where the story goes in book 3!
Loved everything about this book 🫶🏼 and can’t wait to see where the story goes in book 3!
January 30, 2026
Where to start? There is so much I love about this book and series so far. It stays true to its YA genre while being refreshingly original.
Finn was a favorite character of mine from the beginning, but it was cool to see his growth so much more in this book. Honestly I loved the entire Misfits of Narrow Ridge friend group. It gives all the found family feels. I appreciated how even though the series is following Finn and his group of high-school-aged friends they are not left stuck in stereotypes. I feel it made them all much more relatable. They are by no means perfect but the times of drama and mistakes are balanced by wholesome relationships and communication with each other and their mentors.
That really affects the romantic subplot for the better. Love triangles might scare some people off but this one is in no way toxic. The priority put on guarding each other’s hearts is honorable and sweet 🥰.
I absolutely love the way biblical truth is ingrained in the world building itself, and just beautifully and powerfully shows itself throughout the story.
All of this really ties together in a mixture of secrets, betrayal, danger, and discovery that keeps me coming back for more.
More details on content:
Romance: level 1
Violence: light-moderate there is some violence and an instance of bully types ganging up on characters but there isn’t anything too gory and these scenes are described tactfully.
Foul language: none
Finn was a favorite character of mine from the beginning, but it was cool to see his growth so much more in this book. Honestly I loved the entire Misfits of Narrow Ridge friend group. It gives all the found family feels. I appreciated how even though the series is following Finn and his group of high-school-aged friends they are not left stuck in stereotypes. I feel it made them all much more relatable. They are by no means perfect but the times of drama and mistakes are balanced by wholesome relationships and communication with each other and their mentors.
That really affects the romantic subplot for the better. Love triangles might scare some people off but this one is in no way toxic. The priority put on guarding each other’s hearts is honorable and sweet 🥰.
I absolutely love the way biblical truth is ingrained in the world building itself, and just beautifully and powerfully shows itself throughout the story.
All of this really ties together in a mixture of secrets, betrayal, danger, and discovery that keeps me coming back for more.
More details on content:
Romance: level 1
Violence: light-moderate there is some violence and an instance of bully types ganging up on characters but there isn’t anything too gory and these scenes are described tactfully.
Foul language: none
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a great addition to this series. I loved seeing the growth in all of the characters especially Finn. It's amazing how you get pulled into the story and find yourself hoping for the best outcome. I love the redemption shown with a few of the characters that made me really love this book even more. I can't wait until the next book comes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been eagerly awaiting this book since reading House of Dragons, and it did not disappoint!!
I enjoyed watching the friend circle grow and their friendships deepen. This story is both exciting and endearing, and in my opinion, a perfect coming-of-age/young adult book. I thoroughly enjoyed this as an adult, and will be reading it to my kids!
I love how scripture is perfectly woven into the story as the songs for each of the four houses. (The House of Dragons, Horses, Lynx, and Sheep). I love the characters, the dragons, the redemption arcs, the world-building, the cozy vibes of the village, the friendships, the mentors, the suspense, courage, honor, and loyalty. I will probably reread both books as I wait for Book 3!
Thank you Kathryn for these amazing books!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed watching the friend circle grow and their friendships deepen. This story is both exciting and endearing, and in my opinion, a perfect coming-of-age/young adult book. I thoroughly enjoyed this as an adult, and will be reading it to my kids!
I love how scripture is perfectly woven into the story as the songs for each of the four houses. (The House of Dragons, Horses, Lynx, and Sheep). I love the characters, the dragons, the redemption arcs, the world-building, the cozy vibes of the village, the friendships, the mentors, the suspense, courage, honor, and loyalty. I will probably reread both books as I wait for Book 3!
Thank you Kathryn for these amazing books!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 6, 2025
This book is a coming of age series that has similar vibes to How to Train Your Dragon with biblical applications woven in. It is an epic fantasy for young adults that keeps the reading guessing with every page and plenty of twists along the way. This book is perfect not only for young readers, but adults too who can learn from the many themes as we read the story of Finn and watch him transform from a young boy to a man as he matures and grows in his faith in the Eternal!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐
This is how my favorite dragon saga returned. A sequel with more action and depth than the previous one, it included unexpected plot points. There was better tracking of who the real threat was and the purpose behind it. This book truly challenged Finn in everything he believed.
Plot
It started with a bang. New antagonist, more revelations, spies on the sidelines. There was a good backstory, and the motivation of the evil organization (that's what I'll call them) was better understood. They provided some incredible moments of angst and development for Finn. I appreciated the fact that he recited the songs in his lowest moments because that's what I do in real life with Psalm 23 when I'm at my wit's end. There was action throughout most of the book, which made it easy for me to follow.
Romance + Friendship
I really felt a strong parallel to the Hiccstrid pairing from "How to Train Your Dragon." However, it was obviously different in a good way because they are their own characters. The author made good use of time to develop fundamental pillars in a loving relationship: communication, trust, discernment, and faith . It's the first time I've read how adult characters give good advice on the subject and have healthy dynamics with the younger ones. Plus, extra points for making their male protagonist a gentleman and role model among so many fantasy books currently circulating. Seriously, the words and gestures between them (Finn and Toril) melted my heart more than once.
The second element I loved was the importance of friendship among the secondary characters. How wonderful it is to have a group and feel loved despite differences. Each one had something to contribute; in fact, if it weren't for their interactions, I wouldn't have grown so attached to Toril, Viggo, and Ingrid this time. They had a huge impact on the plot. As for Odin, he's definitely on my radar 👀.
Magic and Character Inclusion
Regarding the songs, without giving away any spoilers, I quite liked their ultimate purpose and how they were connected to the theme of redemption. I was fascinated by the twist they gave to the disabilities of certain characters, turning them into advantages. Also, how crucial it is to have a strategist on your side for future battles.
Could Be Better
Although it would technically be a spoiler if added at the beginning of the book, I would appreciate it if a content warning for kidnapping and sexual assault insinuation were included next time. These are sensitive situations. Aside from the above, the final fight left me wanting more action, considering all the build-up they did, in my opinion.
Conclusion
I definitely want to see how this trilogy ends. There are still elements to explore, such as the workings of the other houses and arcs to conclude. I won't deny that the last pages of the book surprised me. Excellent read. Thanks for the arc!
This is how my favorite dragon saga returned. A sequel with more action and depth than the previous one, it included unexpected plot points. There was better tracking of who the real threat was and the purpose behind it. This book truly challenged Finn in everything he believed.
Plot
It started with a bang. New antagonist, more revelations, spies on the sidelines. There was a good backstory, and the motivation of the evil organization (that's what I'll call them) was better understood. They provided some incredible moments of angst and development for Finn. I appreciated the fact that he recited the songs in his lowest moments because that's what I do in real life with Psalm 23 when I'm at my wit's end. There was action throughout most of the book, which made it easy for me to follow.
Romance + Friendship
I really felt a strong parallel to the Hiccstrid pairing from "How to Train Your Dragon." However, it was obviously different in a good way because they are their own characters. The author made good use of time to develop fundamental pillars in a loving relationship: communication, trust, discernment, and faith . It's the first time I've read how adult characters give good advice on the subject and have healthy dynamics with the younger ones. Plus, extra points for making their male protagonist a gentleman and role model among so many fantasy books currently circulating. Seriously, the words and gestures between them (Finn and Toril) melted my heart more than once.
The second element I loved was the importance of friendship among the secondary characters. How wonderful it is to have a group and feel loved despite differences. Each one had something to contribute; in fact, if it weren't for their interactions, I wouldn't have grown so attached to Toril, Viggo, and Ingrid this time. They had a huge impact on the plot. As for Odin, he's definitely on my radar 👀.
Magic and Character Inclusion
Regarding the songs, without giving away any spoilers, I quite liked their ultimate purpose and how they were connected to the theme of redemption. I was fascinated by the twist they gave to the disabilities of certain characters, turning them into advantages. Also, how crucial it is to have a strategist on your side for future battles.
Could Be Better
Although it would technically be a spoiler if added at the beginning of the book, I would appreciate it if a content warning for kidnapping and sexual assault insinuation were included next time. These are sensitive situations. Aside from the above, the final fight left me wanting more action, considering all the build-up they did, in my opinion.
Conclusion
I definitely want to see how this trilogy ends. There are still elements to explore, such as the workings of the other houses and arcs to conclude. I won't deny that the last pages of the book surprised me. Excellent read. Thanks for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lord of Dragons is Book 2 in The Emberstone Trilogy, an adventure-filled fantasy that continues the journey of Finngavin Ivarsson (Finn) and his dragon, Emberstone (Ember). Finn’s character matures as he rises to the escalating challenges first introduced in House of Dragons (Book 1), with the stakes intensifying throughout this second installment.
In Lord of Dragons, Finn’s circle of friends expands, and their relationships are thoughtfully developed and strengthened, adding emotional depth. The plot skillfully weaves suspense and mystery, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists and surprising turns; in fact, the author delivers a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next book.
Woven throughout the adventure are meaningful Christian themes and Scripture, seamlessly embedded into the narrative and enhancing the overall message. Lord of Dragons is a compelling continuation of the House of Dragons—rich in action, character growth, and faith-filled elements that will resonate with its readers.
I received an ARC copy for an honest review. Thoughts are my own! I highly recommend this book!
In Lord of Dragons, Finn’s circle of friends expands, and their relationships are thoughtfully developed and strengthened, adding emotional depth. The plot skillfully weaves suspense and mystery, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists and surprising turns; in fact, the author delivers a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next book.
Woven throughout the adventure are meaningful Christian themes and Scripture, seamlessly embedded into the narrative and enhancing the overall message. Lord of Dragons is a compelling continuation of the House of Dragons—rich in action, character growth, and faith-filled elements that will resonate with its readers.
I received an ARC copy for an honest review. Thoughts are my own! I highly recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Solid 4 ½ stars. The second book in the Emberstone Trilogy developed the mystery of who or what was threatening the village and what Finn’s role is–and revealed some answers. But while the plot did develop, this book mostly centred on the relationships between the characters, particularly the friend group that developed during book one.
You can expect some melodrama from Finn, and a lot of teenage angst as he works through his feelings for both Ingrid and Toril, what they in turn might feel for him, and what to do about the whole mess. There is a lot of good relationship and courting advice tucked into the pages, and forgotten expectations on what respect looks like in practice. There are adults behaving well, and adults behaving badly, a rapidly growing baby dragon, and a whole lot of sweet romantic tension. Kathryn’s prose is beautiful, and I could see her heart shining on every page.
But beware the cliffhanger ending! I did warn you!
You can expect some melodrama from Finn, and a lot of teenage angst as he works through his feelings for both Ingrid and Toril, what they in turn might feel for him, and what to do about the whole mess. There is a lot of good relationship and courting advice tucked into the pages, and forgotten expectations on what respect looks like in practice. There are adults behaving well, and adults behaving badly, a rapidly growing baby dragon, and a whole lot of sweet romantic tension. Kathryn’s prose is beautiful, and I could see her heart shining on every page.
But beware the cliffhanger ending! I did warn you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an excellent sequel to House of Dragons!
Finn and Toril are the characters every teen reader needs in their life. This book shines in its beautiful depiction of a healthy slow-burn romance filled with mutual respect, quiet longing, and friends-first. The romance portrayal was my favorite part of the story, but...
I love how the bigger world conflict was moved forward in this book. I can't say as much as I'd like to (because spoilers) but suffice it to say, the pieces are moving beautifully on every front, and after that ENDING, I need book three RIGHT NOW.
Readers should know both book one and two move somewhat slowly in terms of pacing, but the sweet, strong, and tender character journeys are well worth sticking with it, and I have no doubt book three will be keeping me on the edge of my seat!
Finn and Toril are the characters every teen reader needs in their life. This book shines in its beautiful depiction of a healthy slow-burn romance filled with mutual respect, quiet longing, and friends-first. The romance portrayal was my favorite part of the story, but...
I love how the bigger world conflict was moved forward in this book. I can't say as much as I'd like to (because spoilers) but suffice it to say, the pieces are moving beautifully on every front, and after that ENDING, I need book three RIGHT NOW.
Readers should know both book one and two move somewhat slowly in terms of pacing, but the sweet, strong, and tender character journeys are well worth sticking with it, and I have no doubt book three will be keeping me on the edge of my seat!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finn is struggling to figure out who he’s supposed to be after discovering that his friends have deceived him. This young lad goes through quite a bit. I will say that I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first. There was a lot focused on the awkward relationships between Finn and two girls he liked. I already knew which one he get with, but the miscommunication and avoidance of communication got old quick. This is a YA book so I guess I can’t expect these teens to be that mature. I am now forced to read the third book because the author has wounded my favorite character in the book. Way to torture me. 😭
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 2, 2026
- Third Person, single POV
- Christian Fantasy, YA
- Book 2: The Emberstone Trilogy (should be read in order)
Lord of Dragons is the second book in the Emberstone Trilogy, and just like the first one (House of Dragons) it was a fun, well written journey throughout an intriguing fantasy world with some wonderful characters and creatures.
I loved getting to know the characters even more this time around. They are a really great group who are easy to like and root for.
The story was interesting and kept me drawn in and wanting to read more and more. There was so much heart to this story, and some lovely faith themes that fit in nicely. Oh, and the cover is awesome.
If you're looking for a Fantasy series with dragons that will pull you in (and you can read with your kids) then you should check out this one. I'm excited to see what the third book will bring.
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts
- Christian Fantasy, YA
- Book 2: The Emberstone Trilogy (should be read in order)
Lord of Dragons is the second book in the Emberstone Trilogy, and just like the first one (House of Dragons) it was a fun, well written journey throughout an intriguing fantasy world with some wonderful characters and creatures.
I loved getting to know the characters even more this time around. They are a really great group who are easy to like and root for.
The story was interesting and kept me drawn in and wanting to read more and more. There was so much heart to this story, and some lovely faith themes that fit in nicely. Oh, and the cover is awesome.
If you're looking for a Fantasy series with dragons that will pull you in (and you can read with your kids) then you should check out this one. I'm excited to see what the third book will bring.
I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts
December 11, 2025
This book was both exciting and tender, and if you've read book one, this one gets even better! Finn is such a relatable "human" character. He cries, he struggles with feeling unworthy, afraid, embarrassed, and confused. But, through this story, he grows so much and becomes a wise young man.
Finn must learn how to protect the hearts of the two girls he's friends with, and, even when he knows he's falling in love with one of them, he's careful to approach her respectfully about it. I loved that.
My favorite part of the whole book was how deep and sweet the friendship bonds are. Finn and his group of friends encourage each other, watch out for each other, and have the important task of uniting all the Houses.
Also, maybe the cherry on top is the adorable baby dragon! Ember is so lifelike and cute. I fell in love with her and her antics.
The pacing was perfect - the suspense and adventure come at all the right, surprising points in the story. The themes are unique, but so, so needed in our literature. They include: Learning to be who God made you to be -- you! Facing your fears, mentorship, true friendship, respectful romance, and learning and leaning on Scripture.
This is definitely a book I'd reread and that I hope my kids read when they are teenagers.
Finn must learn how to protect the hearts of the two girls he's friends with, and, even when he knows he's falling in love with one of them, he's careful to approach her respectfully about it. I loved that.
My favorite part of the whole book was how deep and sweet the friendship bonds are. Finn and his group of friends encourage each other, watch out for each other, and have the important task of uniting all the Houses.
Also, maybe the cherry on top is the adorable baby dragon! Ember is so lifelike and cute. I fell in love with her and her antics.
The pacing was perfect - the suspense and adventure come at all the right, surprising points in the story. The themes are unique, but so, so needed in our literature. They include: Learning to be who God made you to be -- you! Facing your fears, mentorship, true friendship, respectful romance, and learning and leaning on Scripture.
This is definitely a book I'd reread and that I hope my kids read when they are teenagers.
December 3, 2025
I really loved this second book in the series. I loved how much the characters have grown and changed, and how the action kept pace. I loved the elements of friendship, the sweet romance, and the adventure. I love Ember--she's such a character! I look forward to finding out what happens next. I would highly recommend this.
January 31, 2026
I would give my left kidney to have a dragon like Emberstone! She’s fiercely loyal, protective, and can alert you by changing colors when danger is near. I mean what’s not to love? That attempted kidnapping was truly wild. Like really? You don’t have any other hobbies in life? One quote that made me laugh out loud was “I made your brain shut down again, didn’t I?”. It seems to me that Viktor needs a reality check and some major therapy. The disability representation through the character Freya was absolutely beautiful and I love how natural her romance with a certain character was. I could yap about this amazing novel all day, but long story short this book deserves a 10 star rating and no one can convince me otherwise.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews