I really liked this steampunk-tinged story! Solidly written, great pacing, and interesting relationship dynamics.

In this magical world there are three types of beings: the ruling overlords, Dragons, who are not giant lizards but are like humans with magic and dragon-like features; Fenthri, which are basically humans; and Chimera, which are Fenthri with transplanted magical dragon organs.

A dragon noble crosses to Fenthri land and makes a deal with a powerful Chimera woman to help him overthrow the current dragon king. They both have to overcome their pride and prejudices, and let go of past emotional baggage to learn to trust each other along the journey.

There are some weird world mechanics... For example, the dragon guy and the chimera woman sometimes have to drink each others blood in order to regain energy, and it's a very intimate act with sexual overtones. I understand the reason, like it's explained pretty well in the book, but if you describe it in plain tones it is really creepy. Another weird thing is there are two master/apprentice relationships that are on the edge of being romantic. It just made me think of how if one person is in a position of power over the other, then any romantic relationship is going to be threaded with abuse.

That said, I'm interested in reading the next one!

I liked this quote:
"A soul driven by vengeance was a selfish soul. A soul driven by vision was a generous one--one that bore itself before others and put the needs of the many before the needs of the few."

"But if they were mad, they were mad because they kept dreaming..."