I can’t believe that I waited so long to read this book. Truly, it was exceptional. I know it may not be for everyone, but this? This was for ME. I am the target audience. This book had me excited in ways that I haven’t been in so long when reading a book.

Violet is one of my favorite FMC’s of the year. Her strength, her resilience, her refusal to bow and break, despite what everyone sees when they look at her brought me to tears on multiple occasions. She’s physically at a disadvantage and constantly underestimated by her peers and even family. I related to her inner struggles, and I felt pride when she rose to occasion, surprising even herself at times. It was heartwarming to watch her find herself and grow. And she’s so funny too, a complete bad*ss!!! She earns her nickname, Violet’s are too fragile for our girl Violence.

Naturally Xaden Riorson ruined all men for me the minute we minute, standing at the entrance to the parapet. This man, this dark, broody, calculating, deliciously powerful, dragon riding, sensual, BEEFCAKE of a man is a star in the night sky. Like seriously, I could go on, but we’ll spare you the juicy details. I love his entire demeanor, his mysterious and secretive nature. No one but his friends trust him, but I can’t help but want to get to know him, and Vi feels the damn same, despite being warned away by multiple people. Their tension and banter is perfect, and I would literally read a book of just their dialogue, no plot. LMAO SORRRYYY.

But characters aside, because they are all fantastic, not just Xaden and Violence. Liam, Rhiannon, Sawyer, Imogen, Bhodie, AND THE DRAGONS, are equally as dynamic and well written. I would d*e for Tairn and Andarna. My heart warms at every Silver One. Watching these characters fight for their life, grow in unspeakable conditions, and thrive despite all odds was wonderful. And I know things are just going to get crazier, all of the tension and threads unraveling just leave more questions for Violet to answer. I was gasping, crying, screaming, blushing, and feeling it ALL in this book.

The cliffhanger had my jaw on the FLOOR. And I am ravenous for more.

vibes are:
✨ dragons x magic wielding
✨ war college
✨ enemies-to-lovers
✨ slow burn romance
✨ morally grey, shadow Daddy MMC
✨ found family