Firstly, this was my first ever ARC read so thank you so much to the team for letting me read this book early!

This book had a strong start that immediately hooked me, but unfortunately, it lost some of its momentum by the end. I was initially drawn to the FMC, Sifa, who comes across as a strong, independent, and badass woman. She’s also incredibly caring and selfless when it comes to those she loves, which made her easy to root for.

The early chapters—especially those set in Revalle and the beginning of her journey with Fhord—were engaging and well-paced. I loved their banter, and the world-building during this part was clear and immersive. The chemistry between Sifa and Fhord, driven by a mysterious connection, added a nice layer of intrigue.

However, the second half of the book felt rushed. New elements of the world seemed to appear out of nowhere, often introduced through sudden conversations rather than gradual buildup. The dragons, while an exciting concept, felt underdeveloped and almost like an afterthought, which was disappointing given their potential.

Overall, I really liked the premise and the characters, but the pacing and plot execution in the latter half left me wanting more. With a bit more development and cohesion, this could’ve been a standout read.

Addicting read! Love the dragons, elf’s and magical world the author created. It definitely left me curious for book 2 and hungry for my information and background on the MMC and FMC. It’s a fast pace book throughout and just keeps you wanting to read. I did wish for a little more detail into the side characters but am hoping for that in the next books.

I’m so so happy I got to read this book. So so happy. It was the classic fantasy romance you enjoy but with more dragons more enemies to lovers and a deeper forbidden but undeniable bond between the two main characters that you doubt until the very end without possibility to find it out earlier before. It’s insane how deep a story can get you and how crazy obsessed with two characters you can be. I found myself very interested to reveal the dragons and dragon riders dynamic, the truth beyond Sifa’s story, her emotions, her relationships and her heritage. I wanted to know more and when you’re suddenly hit by that feeling while reading, it’s the best sensation ever !!! And our MMC … oh boy, the way I felt completely overwhelmed by his obsession with her … I wanted it. Totally and completely. That’s why after that couple of last chapters … I need to read book two !!

⭐5/5 – My Heart? Stolen by a Dragon Rider and an Elf⭐️

Sacred Struggle swept me into a world of danger, magic, and a romance that burned. Sifa is fierce yet vulnerable, and Fhord? A brooding, loyal dragon rider who had me swooning from the start. Their connection is slow-burn perfection—with just enough angst to make you yell at your book.

The emotions hit hard, but Rochelle Wilcox balances the intensity with moments of warmth, humor, and hope. I binged this book in one sitting—I couldn’t stop. If you love fated mates, forbidden love, and dragons (who doesn’t?), this book will absolutely enchant you. I didn’t just read it—I felt every second.

Overall, 3.75 stars.

I received an ARC copy of this, and I meant to take my time reading it but I ended up pretty much finishing it in one sitting.

Starting with the plot, it was pretty fast paced. It’s a huge part of why it held my interest because there was always something happening. I wasn’t completely a fan of where it all ended, but I’m curious and interested enough that I’ll definitely read the next book when it comes out.

I’m a sucker for dragons, so they were absolutely my favourite characters and I wish we’d had a bit more of them.

Sifa and Fhord were an interesting relationship to explore. Their chemistry was something I really enjoyed and I loved watching the development and I was happy with where things left off with them.

An interesting concept, and a fun and quick read. I look forward to the sequel.