Dragon Cursed by Elise Kova

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

But the hellfire from above is nothing compared to the 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.

My Review

Isola lives in Vinguard, a city constantly under threat from dragons and the surrounding scourge. She and her friend Saipha are training to become Mercy Knights while trying to avoid the fate of becoming dragon cursed themselves. Isola is also determined to help her mother’s research into a possible cure, which pushes her to take risks she probably shouldn’t.

The world has a darker dystopian fantasy feel and the magic system, especially the ether light abilities, is really interesting. The tribunal trials are central to the story and create constant tension without feeling repetitive.

Lucan immediately unsettles Isola and their dynamic starts with distrust. As they’re forced to interact through the trials, their relationship slowly shifts. I liked how the story balanced dangerous moments with quieter character interactions. Isola is brave when it matters but still struggles internally, which made her easy to connect with.

The plot reveals pieces of the world gradually and keeps you guessing without giving too much away. The tension builds steadily and the second half especially pulls you in. I went in curious and ended up completely hooked and already wanting the next book.

If you would like to read Dragon Cursed by Elise Kova you can find this book on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn on qualifying purchases.

If you like this book you may also enjoy books with these tags and categories: dystopian, Dragons and Heroine.