Tuesday Reviews: Realm of Thieves by Karina Halle

 

For Brynla Aihr, crime and survival have always gone hand in hand. Ever since she escaped the fanatical dragon-worshipping cult that controls her homeland, she’s had to carve out a life doing the unthinkable: stealing dragon eggs. Egg theft is illegal and, in most cases, fatal. To breach a dragon’s nest means a harrowing journey through the ancient wards spelled to keep the monstrous beasts confined. Dragons can’t get out and only those with a death wish can get in.

Despite the risks, dragon eggs are highly coveted for their magic. An illegal trade flourishes under competing criminal empires, and Brynla’s loyalty has always been to the highest bidder. Until she finds herself kidnapped and blackmailed by Lord Andor, a formidable lieutenant of House Kolbeck, and thrust into the dangerous political games of rivaling dynasties.

Brynla and Andor clash at every turn, sparking heat in ways Brynla’s never felt before. But in a world that’s prophesized to return to the dragons, and rife with betrayal and secrets at every turn…how close to the flames is she willing to stand?

This book was such a fun ride. Karina Halle gives us a new fantasy world full of dragons, magic, mafia vibes, and secret societies—and somehow it all just works.

Brynla is a badass dragon egg thief with a tough past, and Andor is the broody syndicate lieutenant who kidnaps her for her skills. Cue the forced proximity, danger around every corner, and a slow-burn romance that really pays off. Their chemistry builds over time, and I loved watching their relationship shift from enemies to something much more.

The world-building is super creative, and the side characters (especially the magical dog, Lemi!) add a lot to the story. If you’re into tropes like he falls first, enemies to lovers, and revenge plots with a dash of spice, you’ll definitely want to check this one out.

Plus, that epilogue? Total mic drop. I’m already counting down to the next book.

Another win from Halle—unexpected, layered, and totally worth the ride.