USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde introduces the Royal Houses series with House of Dragons: the story of Kerrigan Argon, a half-Fae, half-human as she seeks her place in an unforgiving world filled with magic, mayhem, and romance. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Holly Black, and V.E. Schwab.Ten years ago, half-Fae, half human Kerrigan Argon was discreetly dropped off onto the steps of … off onto the steps of Draco Mountain with nothing but a note. Her life changes completely as she’s swept into the care of the House of Dragons—an elite training program for gifted Fae.
On the year of her seventeenth name day, each student will be chosen by one of the twelve tribes of Alandria to enter society.
Everyone is chosen, except Kerrigan.
So, she strikes a bargain with the Dragon Society: convince a tribe to select her or give up her birthright forever.
With the unlikeliest of allies—Fordham Ollivier, the cursed Fae prince, who escaped his dark throne—she has to chart her own destiny to reshape the world.
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Having read Ms.Linde’s work many times before I’ve been wanting to get into her fantasy books. As soon as i found out about this first Royal Houses book i wanted to pick it up first. I enjoyed this first book!
Right from the first chapter, Kerrigan’s journey pulled me in! I wasn’t sure what all to expect going into this book which got me into it even more! I really liked how it was different and how i could picture it all clearly. I enjoyed what Fordham brought to the story as well!
With House of Dragons, Ms.Linde has created such a good read that already has me looking forward to more! I can’t wait to pick up book two, House of Shadows next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions / the author*
An epic foray into a world of power and mystery that caught me from the first page. Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Stephanie Garber will love this thrilling and romantic start to a brand new series.
I’m not a big fan of fantasy romance, but in the hands of KA Linde, these stories are epic! Much like she did in her her vampire series, Blood Type, which I loved, she has developed a whole Fae world called Alandria, with maps, counties, different Royal houses, and the best part: dragons! I was initially overwhelmed with all the names and places but you get up to speed pretty quick and the enjoyment is addictive.
Kerrigan Argon, lost Princess of Bryonica, was left at the foot of Draco Mountain, to be raised as a Dragon Blessed. In a fantasy city called Kinkadia, a half Fae child is undesirable. This is why Kerrigan’s father, prince Kivrin Argon of the house Bryonica gave her away when she was five and her ears didn’t grow pointed, like a full Fae. The half Fae and humans are discriminated against in Kinkadia.
I loved this character! Kerrigan is mischievous, impulsive, has a huge heart, and she gets into trouble almost constantly. It’s not always that she finds trouble but most often trouble finds her. She will get involved in any situation to help someone, to avenge a wrong to a loved one, to correct an injustice. Even though she says she’s scared, she forges on anyway to face danger. I found her fearless and awesome.
On the first day of the House of Dragons tournament, Prince Fordham Ollivier of the House of Shadows appears in a cloud of black smoke, uninvited and undesirable. After convincing the committee to allow him to participate, Kerrigan is assigned to him to assist during the tournament. He’s a jerk, she’s mouthy, a perfect combination. Irresistibly, he’s drawn in to her shenanigans. Although initially arrogant and hateful because she’s a “half-breed”, over time Fordham starts to recognize the incredible amount of magic she possesses, her huge heart, her talent for adventure and mischief, and her talent for getting into trouble. And trouble is what ensues for the rest of the story!
This story is magically epic, full of action and adventure, rife with friendship with her besties Hadrian, Clover and Darby. There’s darkness in her relationship with Dozan Rook, the King of the Wastes who is obsessed with Kerrigan, we don’t know if it’s because of her magic power or her person. There are also terrorists called Red Masks, who discriminate and seek to obliterate all humans and half Fae. It’s really addictive and fascinating and it holds you enthralled until the fantastic finale that is of course a cliffhanger because this is the first of a trilogy. Great read, totally recommend!
I can’t believe I didn’t know this book existed before a few months ago!
I could go on and on about all the things I loved about this book. The story had me captivated from the first page and didn’t release its hold on me until the end. I mean I should’ve expected it after reading the synopsis because dragons, a dark prince, and a badass heroine trying to find her own way…that’s right up my alley. But it had been a long time since I’d read a YA fantasy and I was nervous about jumping into this one; I’m glad I was proven wrong.
Although the story had be hooked from the start, the bright spot of this whole book, for me, was Kerrigan. She’s gone through so much but she never lets it get her down. She always fights for what she believes in and doesn’t let fear hold her back. She’s mischievous, loyal, sassy, and has such a big heart. All of those things endeared me to her character. Speaking of characters, I adored Kerrigan’s entire friend group. They were all so different, but had so much love and loyal for each other.
I’m so excited for rest of the series to see where Kerrigan’s story goes!
I’ve been craving a fantasy romance read and this series is just what I needed. Loved this world, Bad ass heroine and a dark fae prince ummm YES PLEASE! So many twists and turns, book 2 is next and I can not wait! LOVED IT!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I wanted to read House of Dragons for a while now. So when the opportunity came for me to listen to it on audio, I took the plunge. Narrated by Amy McFadden House of Dragons introduced the reader to a world of faes, dragons and elemental magic.
I had a great time with House of Dragons, which came as no surprise. I trust the author to deliver an engaging tale, whether its contemporary romance, paranormal romance or fantasy. She did not disappoint. The Royal House series is off to an exciting start.
House of Dragons introduces Kerrigan, a half-Fae, half human. Ostracized by her father, because of her human side, he left her at Draco Mountain. Soon the House of Dragon took her under their wings. As she grew older, she learns of the prejudices and the hatred against her because of her human side. In this world, humans are inferior and its worse for half breeds. Kerrigan hopes to be selected by one of the twelve tribes. However, when she wasn’t chosen, she had to find a tribe to select her or face being stuck at The Society forever.I found the world Linde created fascinating. We have elemental magic, dragons bonding with their riders and so much more. Although based on fantasy, the world created mirrored reality with its prejudices and racism. Linde explored hard hitting issues in this incredible story.
I enjoyed getting to know Kerrigan. Such an awesome and kick ass character. She is not afraid to stand up for her beliefs and refuses to allow her fears to hinder her. The story brought Kerrigan’s loyalty, strength, courage, and determination to life.
The introduction of Prince Fordham Olivier, a dark fae from the House of Shadows, made for some interesting moments. Fordham and Kerrigan made a great team. Their relationship began on rocky ground, but throughout the story an alliance and ultimately friendship developed between them. Sparks burned between them and I kept hoping for their romance to develop. Alas, it did not materialize, because of complications on both their parts.
Besides this, Kerrigan finds herself embroiled in a mystery surrounding the death of a friend. I enjoyed the mystery, which kept me guessing as it unfolded. Throughout it all, Kerrigan discovers secrets about herself and her heritage. The story featured several surprises, both pleasant and unpleasant.
The story ended on an interesting note. Although not a cliff hangar, it left me with several questions, leaving me eager for the next book.
Narration
Amy Mcfadden’s narration was pure perfection. This was my first time listening to her narration I would definitely listen to her again. She brought each of the characters to life and she made it easy to distinguish between each of their voices. The narration made my journey into this world of dragons and faes doubly exciting.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
5 AMAZING STARS!! WOW, is all I can say….I am so addicted to this story from the first page. Kerrigan was so fun to watch, she had me on the edge of my seat all the way through. I can’t wait for the next book. You must read this book.
A stunning, dazzling introduction to a new series!
The depths of this world are deeply explored, and Kerrigan Argon is the kind of heroine that captures the reader from the get-go. She’s complex, but lovable and possesses a deep well of inner strength that continues to unfold as the book goes on. And the mystery of Prince Fordham Ollivier is just as compelling, even moreso as their paths begin to intertwine.
The rules of the society, the House, and magic in this world are complex and as they unravel only draw the reader in deeper. I’m already chomping at the bit for more! And the tangible connection to Linde’s Ascension series (not required to understand the world or this new series) is enough that I’m excited to read these as well.
Just as compelling as her contemporary series’, Linde’s Royal Houses series promises to be great and ever more captivating as it continues
So, high fantasy tends to be a challenge for me, and House of Dragons is my 5th read from this genre this year. I definitely love the fantasy world, but high fantasy is always a tough one for me because of the crazy amount of world-building. It can be a little overwhelming for my brain to comprehend it all. Even though it was a slow start for me in the beginning, I really got into it once I got past it. And it’s safe to say that I really enjoyed this one.
Normally, YA is not a genre that gravitates towards but add the paranormal or fantasy sub-genre, I’ll definitely give it a try. And House of Dragons did not disappoint.
Kerrigan is … I really loved her character. When a character already has soooo much against them and has been through so much, it’s automatic for me to root for them. She’s pulled in so many different directions, yet deals with so much prejudice because of what she is. She’s strong and so unafraid, I respected and admired the heck out of her.
Fordham, I liked that he was a bit of a mystery and still remains by the end of the book. I realllllyyyyyy enjoyed the bit of enemies-to-friends/lovers (not quite lovers since the romance is very low in this one, but something more to come is definitely hinted). All of their interactions were really fun and he can be a bit of a grumpy bear towards Kerrigan, but he has no problem putting down what he’s doing to always help her out.
Absolutely cannot wait to see what happens between the books to come and see what other barriers they’ll be facing together.
I am a little bummed that we have to wait a while for the next book, so I might hold off on the series until it’s complete. We’ll see when the next book comes around. However, truly a great read, and I’m completely invested in this series.
The perfect mix of adventure, danger, dragons, and a feisty main character! The pages turn themselves in this fast-paced fantasy!
K.A. Linde’s House of Dragons was a fantasy thriller with a super complex plot and interwoven characters and storylines.
Kerrigan Argon, half Fae, half human. Given up by her father so she didn’t embarrass his royal house must now create her own destiny as one of the Dragon Blessed. There is so much more to her than what is seen. A hurtful past, an unsure future, she is always a fighter for what she believes in. Loyal to her friends and those she cares about. More special than she can comprehend. She is independent and courageous, gritty and raw and fantastically sarcastic and sassy too!
Fordham Ollivier, Prince of the House of Dark Shadows and an unexpected and unlikely ally to Kerrigan. He has such inner turmoil and is fighting against what he has been taught vs what he is experiencing with Kerrigan.
While it is a fantasy with lots of magic and dragons etc, I found myself lost in the storyline and the fantasy aspect was secondary to the plt and characters. It was captivating, and I want more now because I am totally invested in knowing more about not just Kerrigan and Fordham, but all of the secondary characters as well!
While the current storyline is fairly wrapped up, there are major teasers and arcs that will continue on to the next book and I was left with many questions and wonderings. I hate that the next book seems like an eternity away because this was intriguing! 4 stars.
So fantasy is not usually my thing. Unless K.A. Linde writes it. I loved her Ascension series so I was stoked to learn of this new series! And I was not disappointed.
This book has it all. Mystery, magic, adventure, intrigue, a cast of amazing characters, and dragons! I was swept away into this world and enjoyed every second of it.
Kerrigan is simply awesome. She’s unapologetically herself. She’s strong and fierce and determined. I just loved her. And broody Fordham, something about him just draws you in. I loved the relationship between him and Kerrigan.
This story is complex, but not difficult to follow. K.A. Linde can paint a beautiful picture with her words and I felt like I was watching this book play out in front of my eyes. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Writing this review is so easy for me. I don’t typically read fantasy. Years ago I read a fae series (The Fever Series) and I freaking LOVED it. Not sure why I don’t read fantasy because when I put myself out there – I LOVE it! Writing a review for a book I love just comes so easily. I just want to scream from the rooftops – READ THIS BOOK!
Kerrigan is a character that you can’t help but love, working hard all her life to be accepted, and on the one day that this dream is to come true is all goes by the wayside.
This book had me reading for hours upon hours. when I should have been cleaning or working or sleeping -I was reading.
I have been a K. A. Linde fan for a long time and I am finding that her writing is perfect for romance but maybe her mind and storytelling are MADE for fantasy. The twists and turns and the imagination it takes to write such a beautiful and complex book is mind-boggling!
4.5 stars for – House of Dragons – book one in the Royal Houses series by K.A. Linde. This is a spin-off from the Ascension series which is one of my most favorite reads of all time. I went into this book knowing a bit about the main character and super excited for the elaborate world Kyla would weave once again. Many new faces and some old ones too were introduced in the most exciting of ways – a dragon tournament!
Reading this book felt like you were infused with the magic that flows through the pages as mystery and danger lurk all around. While admittedly the romance is on the back burner for now Linde has a way of building it up as she goes so I know she won’t disappoint in the end. I can’t wait until we get the next book in this series of Kerrigan and her many friends.
Absolutely beautiful and captivating. K.A. Linde can write any genre and I enjoy reading her work every time. The world building and descriptions are brilliant. The prose is stunning. The characters are complex and intriguing. This is definitely a great start to a new series and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for is next. I am dying to read more.
So I’m not big on fantasy books. They are not my cup of tea and I normally will not willing pick one to read unless it is HIGHLY recommended. This changed with Linde’s Ascension series. I devoured each book as it was released. Naturally, when I heard she was going to write another series and it was along the same lines, I wanted a shot at it. It does not disappoint! Once again, Linde’s writing is magnificent. I’m also working my way through the audio version and it’s even better. I’m so excited to see what she dreams up next!
House of Dragons is the first installment from the Royal House series. Although its not necessary, the story does follow the Ascension series, which introduced you to Kerrigan and this world.
Kerrigan is the Half Fae, Dragon Blessed, wild hair killer fighter, who doesn’t really belong. She often finds herself in danger which happens to also be when she discovers more of her self. Preparing herself to be chosen by a tribe, she is punished into serving the Prince of The House of Shadows. Both are outcasts who help each other t achieve their goals.
Did I mention there are Dragons? Yes! Dragons!! Obviously, House of Dragons! Dragons fly freely in this world and if anything can get you in on this book… this is it!
I am a big big fantasy fan. K.A. Linde actually introduced me to this world and I’ve been obsessed ever since. Can’t wait until the next book!
***Arc provided in exchange of honest review.
3.5
Kerrigan is fierce, adventurous and lives in a world that is not always kind. She often finds herself in the dangerous side of town because oddly enough it is the only place she isn’t shameful about who she is … half fae. Get ready to jump into a world of magic and dragons. (Did I mention Kerrigan works with dragons?) Her courage is inspiring and Fordham, the devilishly handsome prince she is assigned to, grows on you very quickly.
I was disappointed in the romance and climax (or lack there of), but having read many books written by this author, I can say the foundation the first novel has set is going to lead to an amazing series.
If you haven’t read the Ascension series … do yourself a favor and read it! That was the easiest 5 star rating I have ever given and it’s the first time you get to meet Kerrigan!
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
This is the fantasy book I have been waiting for! I have always loved KA Linde’s world-building, and she outdid herself with this one. The world of Alandria is full of magic, mystery, and intrigue. Kerrigan is a complete badass, and I was rooting for her from page one. I became so invested in this story and its characters so quickly, and all I want is to devour more words. There’s a lot of reasons to be looking forward to 2021, and the next Royal Houses book is now on that list. This is definitely one of my top reads of 2020!
I don’t read fantasy. I have never liked it at all, and no matter how highly a fantasy book is recommended to me, I just can’t get motivated to read one. Until this one (and I even procrastinated with it!). This book has changed my mind about Fantasy reads.
As soon as I finished it, I called a friend and told her she HAD to read it. My biggest take away was that this is the kind of book I want my daughter to read. The main character, Kerrigan, possesses so many qualities I want my daughter to see in herself. She is strong. She is self-assured. She is scared, but has the bravery to overcome her fears. She fights for what she knows to be right, and she trusts her gut.
On top of the characters (they are all pretty amazing), there is this wonderful story that transports you to another place. I finished this book in less than 24 hours because I could not put it down. (That’s saying a lot for someone who isn’t typically a fantasy reader.) Go read this one; even if fantasy isn’t usually your thing, I have a hunch you’ll change your mind too.