Reviewed by Taylin

TITLE: The Red Dragon of Oxford

SERIES: Wings Over Albion #1

AUTHOR: Joy Lynn Fielding

PUBLISHER: Self-Published

LENGTH: 230 Pages

RELEASE DATE: January 15, 2024

BLURB:

Dragons aren’t real. Or so I used to think.

Oxford isn’t exactly what I’d imagined. Sure, the colleges are romantic, and everyone is brilliant enough to trigger my impostor syndrome. I expected that.

The dragon, however, was a big surprise.

I saw him on my first day. The beautiful beast spoke to me, then disappeared. I’ve been looking for him ever since.

When I’m not on a wild dragon chase, I spend my time in the library. I’d like to think I’m only there to study, but who am I kidding?

I’m there for him.

Rufus Mortimer is the world’s hottest librarian. He’s strict, enigmatic, and sexy. He makes me feel things I’ve never felt before.

But he has a secret. One that could destroy everything.

So now, all I have to do is find a dragon, earn my doctorate, and try to not to let my new romance burn my life to the ground. Easy, right?

I wish…

The Red Dragon of Oxford, book 1 in the Wings over Albion series, is a sweet and spicy paranormal m/m romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. Download today, and get ready to fall in love with Mark and Rufus.

REVIEW:

On his first morning at Mortimer College Oxford as a research postgraduate, Mark sees a dragon in the mist. He is captivated. For Rufus, his books are his treasure, and he is happier among them than people. However, when Rufus encounters Mark, he feels the need to add him to his treasure. Though, acting upon that sensation is something else. But when dragons can’t tell humans about themselves, is there any chance for a relationship to work?

After reading a somewhat confusing blurb about who the dragon was or not, there was only one thing to do: read the book and find out. And I was so glad I did. I encountered a tale that enchanted me while I read it and one that grew on me even more in the days that followed.

The story is told in the first person, present tense, from the viewpoints of Mark and Rufus. Among other things, worldbuilding revolves around academic life’s ups, downs, and backstabbing elements. More precisely, the renowned Oxford with its traditions, dos, and don’ts – snobbery and all. Outside the university, there is the life and hierarchy that dragon families must follow within the ranks and wider afield.

Mark is a determined soul from humble beginnings – a hard worker with an inner fire that has nothing to do with dragons but could easily match one. However, the star of the show is Rufus. He is a caring soul who values books. This element will resonate with every author, reader, and academic. Being a red dragon, he is frowned upon by other members of his aristocratic family (besides his brother), whose preference is money. The relationship between Mark and Rufus is a slow burn. There are no quick jumps in the sack here, which was suitable for the couple. Nevertheless, when the physical aspect of the relationship develops – it is hot.

The extended cast includes a range of personalities with family, staff, and students who are unstoppable when on a motivated mission. I found it most entertaining, especially when a particular green-eyed dragon (of sorts) raises a ruckus.

The story includes academia, jealousy, revelations, kidnapping, and some steadfast hearts. My only critique is that I felt the story finished a tad too early. I needed more to satisfy my inner curiosity. As The Red Dragon of Oxford is part of a series, I hope their journey continues into the next book. However, I will wait with bated breath as the next installment will feature another family member.

RATING:

BUY LINKS: 

Amazon