The Night Ends with Fire (The Dragon Spirit Duology)
Infused with magic and romance, this sweeping fantasy adventure inspired by the legend of Mulan follows a young woman determined to choose her own destiny—even if that means going against everyone she loves.
The Three Kingdoms are at war, but Meilin’s father refuses to answer the imperial draft. Trapped by his opium addiction, he plans to sell Meilin for her dowry. But when Meilin discovers her husband-to-be is another violent, ill-tempered man, she realizes that nothing will change for her unless she takes matters into her own hands.
The very next day, she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in her father’s place.
In the army, Meilin's relentless hard work brings her recognition, friendship—and a growing closeness with Sky, a prince turned training partner. But has she simply exchanged one prison for another? As her kingdom barrels toward destruction, Meilin begins to have visions of a sea dragon spirit that offers her true power and freedom, but with a deadly price.
With the future of the Three Kingdoms hanging in the balance, Meilin will need to decide whom to trust—Sky, who inspires her loyalty and love; the sea dragon spirit, who has his own murky agenda; or an infuriating enemy prince who makes her question everything she once knew—about her kingdom and about her own heart.
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Community Reviews
Let me just say, what a badass ending! Seriously, I’m both disappointed at it but also on edge, especially for what’s to come in the next book. I couldn’t give this a full 5 stars because I didn’t fall in love with any of the characters, which is a big deal for me. The main character’s progression was so slow—while I get that she’s young, it felt like she was written to be smarter but didn’t show it when it mattered most. That said, I really enjoyed the themes in this book. There’s a love triangle, but nothing major happens, which was a bit of a letdown, though I understand it based on the story’s direction. This isn’t a love story—it’s about a woman empowering herself, and it definitely gives off Mulan vibes with a twist. Don’t expect a fast-paced, steamy read, but I’m still excited for the next book!
Imagine if you will a Mulan retelling. But she's not striving to save a nation or bring honor to her family. She's fighting to survive & makes all her choices based on greed & selfishness.
It almost feels like it leans towards an Iron Widow FMC, but not quite at the severe level of female rage.
I absolutely enjoyed this, but I do wish I had more of the spirit dragon in the plot. He's a bit subdued for a majority of the book and I'm hoping we'll see much more of him in book 2!
I received this DRC from NetGalley.
The story started off in a strong way. I think after halfway through, it felt slower and a bit repetitive. And I don't think there was enough dragon. It also wasn't really romantic, but I think it was better that it focused more on Meilin. I do think this book is a good setup for the next one. I assume that's where more of the romantic elements and the dragon will play larger roles. It ends with a lot of open plot threads that could make for a more exciting story.
The story started off in a strong way. I think after halfway through, it felt slower and a bit repetitive. And I don't think there was enough dragon. It also wasn't really romantic, but I think it was better that it focused more on Meilin. I do think this book is a good setup for the next one. I assume that's where more of the romantic elements and the dragon will play larger roles. It ends with a lot of open plot threads that could make for a more exciting story.
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