This one pulled me in right away. The mix of dragons, fae, and that eerie circus vibe created such a dark, magical atmosphere—I couldn’t stop reading.

Naevyn is a strong, grounded FMC. She’s older, carries real responsibility, and everything she does comes from wanting to protect her family. I liked that she wasn’t perfect—she struggles and stumbles at times, but it made her feel real instead of untouchable.

The tension between her and Cairos? So good. Peak enemies-to-lovers energy. Their banter is sharp, a little hostile, and full of tension that slowly builds. He’s your classic morally grey, broody dragon-shifter, and I ate that up. Their dynamic really carries the story.

The world-building was immersive without being overwhelming. Between the prophecy, the rebellion, and the different realms, there’s a lot going on, but it’s easy to follow and sets up the series really well. The imagery especially stood out—it all felt very vivid and alive.

If I had one small critique, it’s that some reveals took a bit to land, and I wanted just a little more emotional depth in certain moments. But overall, it didn’t take away from how engaging the story was.

This is a strong start to a series—fast-paced, full of tension, and with just enough mystery to keep you hooked. I’ll definitely be picking up book two.

4.5⭐️ - 1🌶
☆ Dragon shifter MMC
☆ Enemies to lovers
☆ Fated mates
☆ Touch her and die
☆ Prophecy

NetGalley ARC review
Thanks to Netgalley, Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op and Eliza Benner for the free copy.

What a ride. I devoured this book. This was giving me all the vibes I want from a romantasy. At several points, I was giggling and kicking my feet. An excellent example of a not true enemies to lovers, but still done right.

One thing that sort of bothered me was thr Bellamie storyline. It felt a bit unnecessary and that piece wasn't for me. But the rest? Fantastic. Not quite a cliffhanger, but open enough to keep me interested in book 2. Definitely recommend.

Favorite quotes:

> And holy hell, who is this mysterious stranger with a voice so devastatingly appealing that I’m actually tempted to go with him purely for the pleasure of hearing him speak? No, Naevyn. Just because a man’s voice is as sweet as honey doesn’t mean he deserves your trust.

> “You act like you can’t stand me,” he murmurs, “but your body tells a very different story.” He leans in just enough that I feel his breath on my cheek. “I can smell it on you.”

> “Whatever helps you sleep at night. Or should I say, whatever helps you sleep with me.” “I hate you,” I call after him. “I know,” he replies lazily without looking back. I stare after him, outrage simmering in my chest. I’m going to kill him. I swear I am. Right after I stop blushing. Fuck.

> “I’m bothered because I want you so badly I can barely breathe. Because every time you look at me, I forget how to think. When you touch me, even just to bandage a wound, I have to remind myself not to pull you closer and never let go. Something about you draws me in so fucking much, I think I’ll die if I don’t have you.”

> “Fae call it cirance,” he says quietly. “Soul recognition. When you look at someone and just know they’re meant to be yours. That some fundamental part of you has found its other half.”

I’m so obsessed with Vitalia! Huge thanks to Eliza Benner for the free ARC. This dark circus world sucked me in immediately, and the tension between Naevyn and Cairos was everything. If you love a grumpy dragon-shifter, deadly magic, and a slow-burn that actually delivers, you need this on your TBR. It’s heartfelt, intense, and easily a new favorite.

Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley.

"Remember you're mine," he snarls, his mouth hot at my ear, "because when we burn this whole fucking world down, it's me you'll stand beside."

This book was excellent, so well written. It was an easy read and very enjoyable. The pacing was quick, there was always something happening. I absolutely loved the setting of the glass forest, this truly challenged my imagination. The circus angle was really interesting.

The love story seemed quick, however, as you get towards the end it makes sense as to why. My heart was breaking as we learned what had happened to Bellamie.

The book had a great ending, lots to come in the next book, but it didn't end in a cliffhanger. Looking forward to the next book!

Vitalia completely pulled me in (had me at dragon shifters, enemies to lovers and a very compelling world) I genuinely couldn’t put it down and ended up finishing it in a single day.

Set against a dark, intoxicating circus backdrop, the story follows a world of illusion, danger, and hidden identities, where nothing and no one is quite what they seem. That atmosphere was one of my favourite parts; it felt vivid, moody, and just a little bit haunting in the best way with great twists.

The romance absolutely delivered. I loved the fierce MMC, the tension, the restraint, the way everything simmered beneath the surface. The slow burn was done so well, with that addictive push and pull and layered identity dynamic that keeps you second-guessing and wanting more. Their connection felt intense and earned, which made every interaction hit harder.

It also leans into some of the most satisfying tropes: hidden identities, power imbalance, emotional walls, and that sense of “there’s more to you than you’re letting on” all wrapped up in a story that feels fast-paced but still immersive. It really is one of those books that balances plot and romance really well while keeping the tension high throughout.

Overall, such an addictive, atmospheric read with a compelling romance and a setting that lingers. Perfect if you love prophecy, fated mates, fae & dragon shifters fantasy with slow-burn tension and morally intense characters. Very ready for book 2 and more of them and this world. Thanks so much Netgalley for the e-arc and Eliza for writing this!

Highly recommend!