Rating: ★★★★.5
Audience: YA Fantasy Romance
Length: 464 pages
Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Release Date: January 6th, 2026
Image & Other Reviews on: Goodreads

BOOK SUMMARY:

The moment you see a dragon is usually your last…

Since the dragons emerged–along with the scourge that ravaged our lands and people–there’s only one human city that remains Vinguard.

But the hellfire from above is nothing compared to he threat from within. For there is no worse fate than being dragon cursed. Slowly and excruciatingly, you’ll be transformed into a mindless beast who destroys everything–and everyone–you love.

Any of us could be tainted. Any of us could be lying. Any of us could be caught and killed by the authorities.

And I’m terrified that I might be next.

There’s only one other person who might suspect my secret. He’s like my shadow, following me wherever I go. Part protector, part tormentor, fully annoying. Sometimes I think I am just one of the million unfathomable secrets he keeps hidden.

Because Lucan definitely knows something.

And if I’m dragon cursed, death might be the only mercy I get.

Thank you Entangled Teen and Elise Kova for the gifted ARC.

WHAT A BLAST.

I did a little readathon with this book and had such a great time flying through it. I feel like dragons have kind of dropped off the map but I am here for the revival via Dragon Cursed. The ending reveals and cliffhanger were exactly what I was hoping for and I’m sat to see what the next book holds.

This was a well paced, high action read where I wasn’t quite sure who was going to make it out of each trial. I liked not knowing who was good or bad or just very gray. It made the journey more engaging and easy to devour. I loved the magic system and concept of the world. I felt like I got enough to understand what was happening but there were also many elements that I know will be expanded upon in the future.

Y’all know I love a slow burn and that definitely here. I think the vibe feels more new adult than young adult if that phases you. I’ve read all of Elise Kova’s books (20+) and she continues to be one of my favorite fantasy romance authors. Definitely check this book out!!

Overall audience notes:

• Upper YA Fantasy Romance
• Language: mild
• Romance: heated kisses
• Violence: high
• Content warnings: loss of life, torture, loss of loved ones

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