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Dragon Chalice #2
Das magische Siegel
EINE GEHEIMNISVOLLE FREMDE …Als Kenrick of Clairmont nach langer Gefangenschaft frei kommt, widmet er sich sogleich wieder der Jagd nach dem magischen Drachenkelch. In den Ruinen einer zerstörten Burg trifft er auf die schwer verletzte Haven, die ihr Gedächtnis verloren hat. Kenrick glaubt, Haven könnte der Schlüssel zu seiner Suche sein, und nimmt sie mit sich. Bald schon entwickelt er tiefe Gefühle für sie. Doch Haven ist nicht, was sie zu sein scheint …
400 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2005
148 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Tina St. John
11 books158 followersPseudonym of Lara Adrian
A Michigan native and descendant of Mayflower passenger Governor William Bradford, Tina St. John makes her home in coastal New England with her husband, the inspiration for all her heroes and her most devoted fan. The couple are the caretakers of two rescued felines who have trained them to surrender treats, tuna, and belly rubs on command.
She quit a full-time corporate job to pursue her dream of becoming a published author. In 1995, Tina St. John sold her first completed manuscript, Lord of Vengeance, and has since gone on to pen several more acclaimed medieval romances. She was frightened of vampires as a child. Luckily, she has overcome this fear and uses that early fascination to drive her paranormal romance novels as Lara Adrian. Her stories mesh fear, sensuality, and power into vampire romance fantasy novels and today she is well-known for the popular Midnight Breed series. She believes that “vampires as heroes in romantic fiction…are the ultimate bad boy.” Her books have been licensed in over sixteen countries. She is also a RWA RITA finalist and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice award recipient.
A Michigan native and descendant of Mayflower passenger Governor William Bradford, Tina St. John makes her home in coastal New England with her husband, the inspiration for all her heroes and her most devoted fan. The couple are the caretakers of two rescued felines who have trained them to surrender treats, tuna, and belly rubs on command.
She quit a full-time corporate job to pursue her dream of becoming a published author. In 1995, Tina St. John sold her first completed manuscript, Lord of Vengeance, and has since gone on to pen several more acclaimed medieval romances. She was frightened of vampires as a child. Luckily, she has overcome this fear and uses that early fascination to drive her paranormal romance novels as Lara Adrian. Her stories mesh fear, sensuality, and power into vampire romance fantasy novels and today she is well-known for the popular Midnight Breed series. She believes that “vampires as heroes in romantic fiction…are the ultimate bad boy.” Her books have been licensed in over sixteen countries. She is also a RWA RITA finalist and Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice award recipient.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 27, 2025
This book, nay, the ending...
I was worried at the beginning of this one cos I was not sure how I felt about the circumstances surrounding Kenrick & Haven or more accurately, I wasn't sure how I felt about their pairing period. I think I was still on such a huge high concerning book 1 & Braedon & Ariana, that I was allowing that to cloud my judgment of how things were unfolding here. But once I reached the 35% mark, I realized things were happening just as they should.
This 2nd installment to this series was completely on point. The characters, circumstances, the continuous unfolding of the plot concerning the Dragon Chalice, & the introductions of new characters & how their plight plays into the overall plot. I LOVE this book.
The dynamic between Kenrick & Haven broke my heart & had me panting for more all at once. If there was ever a couple that was stuck between a rock & a hard place; concerning their love, feelings & sense of honor, with no clear path in sight? These two are it. They are beyond hot together though. I must say I'm totally in love with Kenrick now. He & Haven are a perfect match for one another.
This one has some shocking reveals & others that are quite obvious, but nothing that takes away from this story. I would HIGHLY recommend this book. I urge you to start from the beginning since this is a series with an on going plot.
And I must warn you the plot is getting deeper & more intense. But each book also focuses on new main characters/love interests.
I can't wait to dive into book 3 "Heart of the Dove" I'm running there now.
I was worried at the beginning of this one cos I was not sure how I felt about the circumstances surrounding Kenrick & Haven or more accurately, I wasn't sure how I felt about their pairing period. I think I was still on such a huge high concerning book 1 & Braedon & Ariana, that I was allowing that to cloud my judgment of how things were unfolding here. But once I reached the 35% mark, I realized things were happening just as they should.
This 2nd installment to this series was completely on point. The characters, circumstances, the continuous unfolding of the plot concerning the Dragon Chalice, & the introductions of new characters & how their plight plays into the overall plot. I LOVE this book.
The dynamic between Kenrick & Haven broke my heart & had me panting for more all at once. If there was ever a couple that was stuck between a rock & a hard place; concerning their love, feelings & sense of honor, with no clear path in sight? These two are it. They are beyond hot together though. I must say I'm totally in love with Kenrick now. He & Haven are a perfect match for one another.
This one has some shocking reveals & others that are quite obvious, but nothing that takes away from this story. I would HIGHLY recommend this book. I urge you to start from the beginning since this is a series with an on going plot.
And I must warn you the plot is getting deeper & more intense. But each book also focuses on new main characters/love interests.
I can't wait to dive into book 3 "Heart of the Dove" I'm running there now.
July 30, 2016
Love this series, such a great storyline and characters, Not all focused on romance so the story is really exciting and romance thrown in is just perfect!
November 29, 2015
Als der Templer Kenrick of Clairmont auf der Burg Greycliff Castle ankommt, ist sie verwüstet. Doch er findet eine überlebende Haven, die ihr Gedächtnis verloren hat. Haven könnte der Schlüssel sein zu allem zur Suche und zu seinem größten Feind. Zwischen den beiden entflammt eine Leidenschaft. Als langsam die Erinnerungen wiederkehren bringt es so manches Geheimnis zutage, die Liebe zwischen den beiden zerstören kann.
Ich kenne ich die Vampirreihe von Lara Adrian, deshalb habe ich mir auch diese Reihe gekauft. Sie ist sehr interessant, geheimnisvoll, denn viele Rätsel werden nicht gelöst. Hier werden nur immer so viel verraten das die Geschichte passt und man neugierig auf das nächste Band wartet. Haven ist sehr interessant Figur, die einem langsam ans Herz wächst bis es zu einer großen Offenbarung kommt. Dann überlegt man ob man sie immer noch mag bzw. ob sie zu den guten gehört. Kenrick ist eine Figur die ich ab und zu gerne mal durch geschüttelt hätte nur um in etwas Vernunft beizubringen. Im großen und ganzen ist die Geschichte bis zur letzten Seite spannend und hat ein paar Wendungen die man so nicht vorhergesehen hat. Ich freue mich schon auf das nächste Band.
Ich kenne ich die Vampirreihe von Lara Adrian, deshalb habe ich mir auch diese Reihe gekauft. Sie ist sehr interessant, geheimnisvoll, denn viele Rätsel werden nicht gelöst. Hier werden nur immer so viel verraten das die Geschichte passt und man neugierig auf das nächste Band wartet. Haven ist sehr interessant Figur, die einem langsam ans Herz wächst bis es zu einer großen Offenbarung kommt. Dann überlegt man ob man sie immer noch mag bzw. ob sie zu den guten gehört. Kenrick ist eine Figur die ich ab und zu gerne mal durch geschüttelt hätte nur um in etwas Vernunft beizubringen. Im großen und ganzen ist die Geschichte bis zur letzten Seite spannend und hat ein paar Wendungen die man so nicht vorhergesehen hat. Ich freue mich schon auf das nächste Band.
July 20, 2012
Kenrick of Clairmont coninues his quest for the dragon chalices. He saves Haven from certain death as she collapses, fever ridden and delirious on the edge of a cliff. They realise they are from different camps, enemy camps in fact, and they must overcome mistrust and misunderstandings in order to achive their goal and accept each other.
As in the first of the Trilogy, I would liked to have learned more about the male character. Perhaps the plot to these stories would have been an excellent foundtion for a fantasy trilogy rather than a romance. the opportunity to explore the character of a Knight Templar, a warrior knight who swore chastity and the honour of Jesus becoming embroiled in a search for a heretical chalice with a woman who was a "demon"- it would have made for an interesting tale full of self recrimination, guilt and angst! but it would have distracted from the sex scenes and pining for each other.
But it was ok.
December 31, 2013
I read Heart of The Hunter because I saw a review on here from a friend and boy am I glad I did as I really enjoyed it and bought the other 2 in trilogy straight away.
This one I LOVED even more than the first. I liked Kenrick from the start I. heart of The Hunter and fell in love with him in this one. I loved the chemistry between him and Haven. Their relationship felt very real and the storyline picked up its pace in this instalment. It had me gripped and I really couldn't put this one down.
I've just started book 3, Heart of The Dove, and I'm already really enjoying that too.
I highly recommend this trilogy from early Lara Adrian. I love her Midnight Breed series and these are just as well written.
This one I LOVED even more than the first. I liked Kenrick from the start I. heart of The Hunter and fell in love with him in this one. I loved the chemistry between him and Haven. Their relationship felt very real and the storyline picked up its pace in this instalment. It had me gripped and I really couldn't put this one down.
I've just started book 3, Heart of The Dove, and I'm already really enjoying that too.
I highly recommend this trilogy from early Lara Adrian. I love her Midnight Breed series and these are just as well written.
June 29, 2015
Tina St. John aka Lara Adrian is an extraordinary writer, that is all, thank you. :)
October 26, 2019
I don't know.. This wasn't a favorite either. I'm not sure why but the book just sort of dragged. About half way through I felt like nothing is happening, our two MCs circled one around the other, very little was revealed about our heroine and her story and very little happened with Kenrick and the continuation of the Dragon Chalice search. When we FINALLY get to about two thirds in things started to take action - both on the romance and the action but at that point I was too restless so I admit to skimming a bit.
Truth being told, after reading Lara's first 4 Historical novels and especially after knowing her well enough in her "Midnight Breed" series I expected more and this series simply doesn't deliver. Naturally I'm going to read the next (and final) one but I'm not excited about it anymore. Though from where the story is left off I feel like there's A LOT of things to close so I hope the next one will be more action packed at least.
We left the previous one with two cups of the Dragon Chalice found - one in the hands of out great villain Silas de Mortaine and the other in the hands of Kenrick Kenrick of Clairmont - Ariana's brother. Ariana and Braedon had enough of adventures, so now they are back at the family estate together with Kenrick who came especially to pay a visit to an old friend Randwulf of Greycliff. Rand wasn't there to greet him, he was killed by Silas' men together with his wife and son while Silas was looking for a special artifact Kenrick left for his keep before he left on his way to France a year before. Now that Rand is dead and the artifact is gone Kenrick is unsure how to continue. His only possible clue is a woman who was left for dead on the estate.
Haven walks aimlessly and deliriously through Rand's estate when Kenrick finds her. She almost falls to her death when he takes her into his house to care of her wounds. He does it because he's basically a good guy at heart, but mostly because he wants to understand what happened to Rand and his family, who was responsible, so he can take his revenge. Infuriatingly Haven remembers nothing of what happened or who she is. The people of the village identify her as Haven, a herbal healer. She remembers Rand's wife as her friend but very little of a rather solitude life.
Though Kenrick starts off as a bit of a douche towards her, their relationship progresses to a sort of friendship as time goes on, though he is still unsure about her role in what happened at Rand's estate. But once the truth is revealed - and it's not hard to guess through the little hints thrown in - Kenrick casts her out. I could understand his feelings, and how confused he was but I was a bit annoyed by his inability to understand what HE was feelings not only at the time but throughout their growing affection and attraction. For Haven it was also a shock realizing what was always there beneath the surface and while she was on a different course before she got hurt, now, after living for a while at the Clairmont estate, getting close to Ariana and the life she is offered there it's hard to put it all aside for a mission she isn't even sure she supports now that she understand the consequences. Things aren't as they seemed, or as they were pictured for her for most of her life.
Now that she is on her own she has a REAL option to take a stand, a personal one. For the first time in her life she can chose a different path than the one she was destined for. It's not a life she would have imagined living but it's a promise of a bright future. Though she can only hope Kenrick will forgive her she still makes the effort to help him and his search for the third part of the Chalice but a bit similarly to the previous one, once it's said and done, the continuation of the mission is left in another man's hands this time - Randwulf of Greycliff - yeah the exact man Kenrick was sure was killed that night. Now with a black heart filled with hatred and the need for revenge he is ready to take off the mission and finish it once and for all in the last installment. I truly hope it's going to close the series in a better way than the first two were for me.
More Reviews HERE
Truth being told, after reading Lara's first 4 Historical novels and especially after knowing her well enough in her "Midnight Breed" series I expected more and this series simply doesn't deliver. Naturally I'm going to read the next (and final) one but I'm not excited about it anymore. Though from where the story is left off I feel like there's A LOT of things to close so I hope the next one will be more action packed at least.
We left the previous one with two cups of the Dragon Chalice found - one in the hands of out great villain Silas de Mortaine and the other in the hands of Kenrick Kenrick of Clairmont - Ariana's brother. Ariana and Braedon had enough of adventures, so now they are back at the family estate together with Kenrick who came especially to pay a visit to an old friend Randwulf of Greycliff. Rand wasn't there to greet him, he was killed by Silas' men together with his wife and son while Silas was looking for a special artifact Kenrick left for his keep before he left on his way to France a year before. Now that Rand is dead and the artifact is gone Kenrick is unsure how to continue. His only possible clue is a woman who was left for dead on the estate.
Haven walks aimlessly and deliriously through Rand's estate when Kenrick finds her. She almost falls to her death when he takes her into his house to care of her wounds. He does it because he's basically a good guy at heart, but mostly because he wants to understand what happened to Rand and his family, who was responsible, so he can take his revenge. Infuriatingly Haven remembers nothing of what happened or who she is. The people of the village identify her as Haven, a herbal healer. She remembers Rand's wife as her friend but very little of a rather solitude life.
Though Kenrick starts off as a bit of a douche towards her, their relationship progresses to a sort of friendship as time goes on, though he is still unsure about her role in what happened at Rand's estate. But once the truth is revealed - and it's not hard to guess through the little hints thrown in - Kenrick casts her out. I could understand his feelings, and how confused he was but I was a bit annoyed by his inability to understand what HE was feelings not only at the time but throughout their growing affection and attraction. For Haven it was also a shock realizing what was always there beneath the surface and while she was on a different course before she got hurt, now, after living for a while at the Clairmont estate, getting close to Ariana and the life she is offered there it's hard to put it all aside for a mission she isn't even sure she supports now that she understand the consequences. Things aren't as they seemed, or as they were pictured for her for most of her life.
Now that she is on her own she has a REAL option to take a stand, a personal one. For the first time in her life she can chose a different path than the one she was destined for. It's not a life she would have imagined living but it's a promise of a bright future. Though she can only hope Kenrick will forgive her she still makes the effort to help him and his search for the third part of the Chalice but a bit similarly to the previous one, once it's said and done, the continuation of the mission is left in another man's hands this time - Randwulf of Greycliff - yeah the exact man Kenrick was sure was killed that night. Now with a black heart filled with hatred and the need for revenge he is ready to take off the mission and finish it once and for all in the last installment. I truly hope it's going to close the series in a better way than the first two were for me.
More Reviews HERE
November 6, 2022
A historical romance with supernatural elements attached makes for an interesting read.
Kendrick is a Knight Templar in search of an artifact before it ends in the wrong hands. Mainly his enemy who seeks power and immortality through greed. He has engaged some supernatural beings to help persecute Hendrick to put his hands on the magical chalice which could mean destruction to all. After having been imprisoned for six months, he returns to find his best friend's keep in ruin. His friend is not there, presumed dead. He rescues Haven from a certain death and injuries. He thinks that she is the only one who can give answers as to what happened and he takes her to his home. Haven doesn't remember much of what happened and his sister nurses her back to health,, hoping that she will regain her memories. She grows very close to Hendrick and they develop a romantic relationship. She has a dark past though. One that could shatter the relationship between her and Kenrick. When she does, will it be the end of the relationship? How will Kenrick react? He doesn't trust easily and that could end it all.
It's a good storyline and very well portrayed. It's a little slow to begin with, but it picks up at reasonable pace. Haven and Kenrick are mysterious and great characters. A very enjoyable read.
Kendrick is a Knight Templar in search of an artifact before it ends in the wrong hands. Mainly his enemy who seeks power and immortality through greed. He has engaged some supernatural beings to help persecute Hendrick to put his hands on the magical chalice which could mean destruction to all. After having been imprisoned for six months, he returns to find his best friend's keep in ruin. His friend is not there, presumed dead. He rescues Haven from a certain death and injuries. He thinks that she is the only one who can give answers as to what happened and he takes her to his home. Haven doesn't remember much of what happened and his sister nurses her back to health,, hoping that she will regain her memories. She grows very close to Hendrick and they develop a romantic relationship. She has a dark past though. One that could shatter the relationship between her and Kenrick. When she does, will it be the end of the relationship? How will Kenrick react? He doesn't trust easily and that could end it all.
It's a good storyline and very well portrayed. It's a little slow to begin with, but it picks up at reasonable pace. Haven and Kenrick are mysterious and great characters. A very enjoyable read.
November 1, 2020
I read this As the 2nd book of "Dragon Chalice Series Box Set".
She had been caught up in a fight for the Dragon Chalice. Sent for one purpose, she tried to negate the situation that occurred. However, she was nearly killed, and found only due to her feverish state.
He hunted the two other cups, and had left something with his dearest friend, Randwulf of Greycliff. It sickened him to discover the terrible fate handed to the small family. Perhaps the girl her found almost on death's door could help him find what he was missing.
She had been caught up in a fight for the Dragon Chalice. Sent for one purpose, she tried to negate the situation that occurred. However, she was nearly killed, and found only due to her feverish state.
He hunted the two other cups, and had left something with his dearest friend, Randwulf of Greycliff. It sickened him to discover the terrible fate handed to the small family. Perhaps the girl her found almost on death's door could help him find what he was missing.
April 29, 2025
Terribly yawningly boring mysty-soap tale for pubescent freshmen girls. The author spends three mortally banal pages describing how the main protagonist, Heaven, gets her panties wet just because the bold blonde knight pats her on the chin with a grim look on his face. St. Clare's goes Castle Hogwarts. The X-Files goes Rosamunde Pilcher.
Fazit: The worst waste of time in 2025. A case for paper recycling garbage can.
Fazit: The worst waste of time in 2025. A case for paper recycling garbage can.
July 10, 2020
Great book!!
This is a romantic story between Haven and Kendrick, a princess and prince for sure! I found it difficult to put the book down to do any household chores, so you can guess what didn't get done!! 😁😁. (No spoilers here!!) Truly, you will enjoy this story immensely. I will definitely read other novels by this author.
This is a romantic story between Haven and Kendrick, a princess and prince for sure! I found it difficult to put the book down to do any household chores, so you can guess what didn't get done!! 😁😁. (No spoilers here!!) Truly, you will enjoy this story immensely. I will definitely read other novels by this author.
June 24, 2017
Okay so far
Got done with the first Dragon Chalice book and had to buy the next 2 books. Couldn't wait to read them.
Got done with the first Dragon Chalice book and had to buy the next 2 books. Couldn't wait to read them.
June 23, 2018
very good story
September 27, 2018
I love Lara Adrian, but I am not a fan of this genre. DNF
January 15, 2021
Intense
I will be recommending this book in the series to all of my girlfriends. Enjoyed the intrigue and suspense love story.
I will be recommending this book in the series to all of my girlfriends. Enjoyed the intrigue and suspense love story.
September 20, 2022
started great
Loved the first half, then a lot of filler. An unexpected twist saved it a bit but overall lost its steam half way through.
Loved the first half, then a lot of filler. An unexpected twist saved it a bit but overall lost its steam half way through.
March 21, 2024
I like this series it’s historical romance mixed with a hint of magic. This was a quick good read.
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 9, 2023
Wenn Lara Adrian eines ganz gut kann, dann überraschen und verzaubern. Ihre Midnight Breed Romane über den Vampirstamm ist eine meiner absoluten Favoriten. Weil Adrian zu meinen Lieblingsautorinnen gehört konnte ich auch bei ihrer neuen historischen Romantic-Fantasy Reihe "Der Kelch von Anavrin" nicht wiederstehen, auch wenn Mittelalter, Ritter und all das drumherum nie wirklich nach meinem Geschmack war. Wie schnell sich sowas ändern kann, wenn man wahrhaftig verzaubert wird, habe ich nach ihrem ersten Buch gespürt. Ich bin ihrem Schreibstil einfach verfallen...
In dieser Buchreihe ist ein junger ehemaliger Templer - Lord Kenrick of Clairmont - auf der Suche nach etwas, dem er einen großteil seines Lebens gewidmet hat. Zu seiner Templerzeit stieß er auf die Legende des Drachenkelches. Einem magischen Kelch aus einer anderen Welt, die von Gestaltwandlern bewohnt und wunderschön sein soll. Dort wurde der Kelch gestohlen und in die Welt der Sterblichen gebracht. Doch wer sich seine Unsterblichkeit und den versprochenen Reichtum zu eigen machen will muss erst alle vier Stücke dieses Kelches wieder vereinen.
Kenricks Beweggründe alle vier Teile zu finden liegen aber nicht im Egoismus. Er will mit aller Macht verhindern, dass Silas de Mortaine, ein skrupelloser Schurke, der Kenrick lange in Gefangenschaft hielt, an den Kelch herankommt. Zusammen mit seinem jetzigen Schwager Braedon und seiner Schwester Arianna haben sie im ersten Buch ein Teilstück des Kelches für sich gewonnen.
Nun, im zweiten Teil dieser mysthischen Reihe, will er einen Gegenstand zurückholen, der ihn zu einem weiteren Teil des Kelches führen soll - doch seine Feinde waren schneller. Die Burg seines besten Freundes ist ausgebrannt, die Familie ausgelöscht worden und das magische Siegel womöglich in den Händen seines Feindes - und alles nur, weil Kenrick den Burgherrn mit in seine Suche nach dem Drachenkelch reingezogen hat.
Kenrick of Clairmont ist ein bekanntes Gesicht. Im ersten Buch war er ein Gefangener und seine Schwester Arianna hat auf der Suche nach ihm ihr Leben riskiert und ihr Herz an einen Mann verloren, der ebenfalls von dem Drachenkelch weiß und nicht will, dass Silas de Mortaine ihm habhaft wird. Gemeinsam haben sie das letzte Abenteuer beendet und nun geht ihre gemeinsame Reise weiter, auch wenn es viel weniger Handlungsorte gibt. Diese Geschichte spielt hauptsächlich auf der Burg Clairmont.
Kenrick ist in Trauer über den Verlust seines Freundes und dessen Familie. Was de Mortaine an Leid über das Land gebracht hat, wird Kenrick ihm nie verzeihen.
Als er über eine fast bewusstlose Frau stolpert, setzt Kenricks Herz für einen Moment aus und er nimmt sie mit auf seine Burg, versorgt sie und erhofft sich wichtige Hinweise, die ihn zu den Mördern seines Freundes führen könnten.
Haven wird als ziemlich stur und wunderschön beschrieben. Sie verfällt Kenrick sehr früh, aber man merkt auch, dass sie sich eher wie eine Gefangene fühlt - bei Kenricks Wortwahl und störrischen Miene aber auch kein Wunder. Dass Haven keine Erinnerungen an den Überfall besitzt, fällt Kenrick schwer zu glauben und so macht er sich auf die Suche nach ihrer Herkunft. Die Dorfbewohner kennen sie als eine Kräuterfrau, die viel auf Burg Greycliff war und der Dame dort in Krankheit beistand.
Haven's Erinnerung drängt im Traum immer wieder zu ihr heran, doch die Bilder sind so furchtbar, dass sie dagegen ankämpft. Dank Lady Arianna gewöhnt sie sich bald auf der Burg ein und als sie gerade glaubt einen Platz im Leben gefunden zu haben, schlägt ihre Erinnerung zu und offenbart etwas tödliches.
Haven und Kenrick sind in meinen Augen das typische mittelalterliche Paar. Schüchterne Blicke, unbewusste Berührungen, unterdrückte Sehnsüchte und eine gefährliche Mission, die ihnen beiden im Weg steht. Haven's Geheimnis hat so eine große Macht und Adrian wartet bis zum Äußersten, bis sie dem Leser klar macht, wie gefährlich diese Liebe werden kann. Man hätte darauf vorbereitet sein können, aber zum Glück gab es nie irgendwelche Anspielungen, die das Geheimnis frühzeitig entlarven konnten. Umso erstaunlicher war diese Entwicklung und auch die weiteren Handlungen, die sich daraus ergeben haben. Ich fand es persönlich schön mal hingehalten zu werden, denn wenn man weiß, dass solche Bücher immer ein gewisses Happy End haben, dann wäre die Geschichte viel zu schnell vorbeigewesen.
Lara Adrian hat mir wirklich klar machen können, was alles auf dem Spiel steht und wie verloren man sich seinem alten Ich gegenüber fühlen kann, wenn man längst eine Andere geworden ist.
Fazit:
Düstere und spannungsvolle Momente haben das lesen zu einem leichten Erlebnis werden lassen. Die Hoffnung auf Liebe an einem fürchterlichen Ort wurde geweckt und zwei Menschen haben eine Chance bekommen, die man nie für möglich halten würde.
Wo Legenden wahr werden, hat diese besondere Liebe immer einen Platz - Lara Adrian sei Dank. "Das magische Siegel" ist somit wieder eines der Bücher, die einen sehr langen Nachhall in meiner Leserseele hinterlassen haben.
In dieser Buchreihe ist ein junger ehemaliger Templer - Lord Kenrick of Clairmont - auf der Suche nach etwas, dem er einen großteil seines Lebens gewidmet hat. Zu seiner Templerzeit stieß er auf die Legende des Drachenkelches. Einem magischen Kelch aus einer anderen Welt, die von Gestaltwandlern bewohnt und wunderschön sein soll. Dort wurde der Kelch gestohlen und in die Welt der Sterblichen gebracht. Doch wer sich seine Unsterblichkeit und den versprochenen Reichtum zu eigen machen will muss erst alle vier Stücke dieses Kelches wieder vereinen.
Kenricks Beweggründe alle vier Teile zu finden liegen aber nicht im Egoismus. Er will mit aller Macht verhindern, dass Silas de Mortaine, ein skrupelloser Schurke, der Kenrick lange in Gefangenschaft hielt, an den Kelch herankommt. Zusammen mit seinem jetzigen Schwager Braedon und seiner Schwester Arianna haben sie im ersten Buch ein Teilstück des Kelches für sich gewonnen.
Nun, im zweiten Teil dieser mysthischen Reihe, will er einen Gegenstand zurückholen, der ihn zu einem weiteren Teil des Kelches führen soll - doch seine Feinde waren schneller. Die Burg seines besten Freundes ist ausgebrannt, die Familie ausgelöscht worden und das magische Siegel womöglich in den Händen seines Feindes - und alles nur, weil Kenrick den Burgherrn mit in seine Suche nach dem Drachenkelch reingezogen hat.
Kenrick of Clairmont ist ein bekanntes Gesicht. Im ersten Buch war er ein Gefangener und seine Schwester Arianna hat auf der Suche nach ihm ihr Leben riskiert und ihr Herz an einen Mann verloren, der ebenfalls von dem Drachenkelch weiß und nicht will, dass Silas de Mortaine ihm habhaft wird. Gemeinsam haben sie das letzte Abenteuer beendet und nun geht ihre gemeinsame Reise weiter, auch wenn es viel weniger Handlungsorte gibt. Diese Geschichte spielt hauptsächlich auf der Burg Clairmont.
Kenrick ist in Trauer über den Verlust seines Freundes und dessen Familie. Was de Mortaine an Leid über das Land gebracht hat, wird Kenrick ihm nie verzeihen.
Als er über eine fast bewusstlose Frau stolpert, setzt Kenricks Herz für einen Moment aus und er nimmt sie mit auf seine Burg, versorgt sie und erhofft sich wichtige Hinweise, die ihn zu den Mördern seines Freundes führen könnten.
Haven wird als ziemlich stur und wunderschön beschrieben. Sie verfällt Kenrick sehr früh, aber man merkt auch, dass sie sich eher wie eine Gefangene fühlt - bei Kenricks Wortwahl und störrischen Miene aber auch kein Wunder. Dass Haven keine Erinnerungen an den Überfall besitzt, fällt Kenrick schwer zu glauben und so macht er sich auf die Suche nach ihrer Herkunft. Die Dorfbewohner kennen sie als eine Kräuterfrau, die viel auf Burg Greycliff war und der Dame dort in Krankheit beistand.
Haven's Erinnerung drängt im Traum immer wieder zu ihr heran, doch die Bilder sind so furchtbar, dass sie dagegen ankämpft. Dank Lady Arianna gewöhnt sie sich bald auf der Burg ein und als sie gerade glaubt einen Platz im Leben gefunden zu haben, schlägt ihre Erinnerung zu und offenbart etwas tödliches.
Haven und Kenrick sind in meinen Augen das typische mittelalterliche Paar. Schüchterne Blicke, unbewusste Berührungen, unterdrückte Sehnsüchte und eine gefährliche Mission, die ihnen beiden im Weg steht. Haven's Geheimnis hat so eine große Macht und Adrian wartet bis zum Äußersten, bis sie dem Leser klar macht, wie gefährlich diese Liebe werden kann. Man hätte darauf vorbereitet sein können, aber zum Glück gab es nie irgendwelche Anspielungen, die das Geheimnis frühzeitig entlarven konnten. Umso erstaunlicher war diese Entwicklung und auch die weiteren Handlungen, die sich daraus ergeben haben. Ich fand es persönlich schön mal hingehalten zu werden, denn wenn man weiß, dass solche Bücher immer ein gewisses Happy End haben, dann wäre die Geschichte viel zu schnell vorbeigewesen.
Lara Adrian hat mir wirklich klar machen können, was alles auf dem Spiel steht und wie verloren man sich seinem alten Ich gegenüber fühlen kann, wenn man längst eine Andere geworden ist.
Fazit:
Düstere und spannungsvolle Momente haben das lesen zu einem leichten Erlebnis werden lassen. Die Hoffnung auf Liebe an einem fürchterlichen Ort wurde geweckt und zwei Menschen haben eine Chance bekommen, die man nie für möglich halten würde.
Wo Legenden wahr werden, hat diese besondere Liebe immer einen Platz - Lara Adrian sei Dank. "Das magische Siegel" ist somit wieder eines der Bücher, die einen sehr langen Nachhall in meiner Leserseele hinterlassen haben.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kenrick, a former Templar, emerges from imprisonment driven to find a mystical treasure, while Haven, a fiery beauty with a mysterious past, complicates his mission. Their evolving trust and growing passion fuel much of the novel’s appeal. The story balances danger and romance well, though some plot points feel predictable. Fans of medieval fantasy with strong romantic tension will find much to enjoy here.
Kenrick, a former Templar, emerges from imprisonment driven to find a mystical treasure, while Haven, a fiery beauty with a mysterious past, complicates his mission. Their evolving trust and growing passion fuel much of the novel’s appeal. The story balances danger and romance well, though some plot points feel predictable. Fans of medieval fantasy with strong romantic tension will find much to enjoy here.
May 26, 2012
3.5 Stars if I could. This is the second in the series of three. Kenrick, the brother of Ariana from the first book who was rescued, started out in my mind as more of a scholar than a knight from his intro. Not so much in this one, he's more warrior with his scholarly knowledge of the history of the Chalice backing him up. Then we meet Haven, who we find out is a shifter. (If you don't get that in the very beginning, sorry, but it's pretty obvious.) I think I have been out of PN for a little too long because the two of them hooking up was a touch odd. We also get introduced to the hero of the third and final book. Now I gave it a high rating because as I stated before, I love St. John's/Adrian style of writing in her historicals. She just tells a very good story. So I surrendered to the mystical aspect of the story and moved on with it. I really liked it, but didn't love it. Kenrick is a bit moody and hot and cold through out the book, and definitely has an addictive personality, because once he commits to an act, he won't let it go. Especially Haven, poor thing. Then, after everything that has transpired, he kind of steps out of the good vs. evil war and passes it off, which left me hanging a little. Haven is all heart and puts up with a bit more from him than I think she should have, but guilt will make us do silly things I guess. A lot of self-worth issues in these books. But.... perhaps it's that OCD part of my personality that had to find out how the whole story ended or I am not giving it enough credit. I finished this one, and I think it equally good as the first, enjoyable, entertaining and well written. Would I recommend it? I am on the fence there, so that will have to be a judgement call. BUT... I was compelled to start the third and last one the same night I finished this one. It was intriguing enough for me to want to see it all the way through. The premise of the series was really good, and again, the writing style very enjoyable to me. Light reads with fast paced story that was intelligent enough to not bore me into skipping of it.
April 12, 2012
When Kenrick of Clairmont went to the home of his friend Randwulf (Rand) 0f Graycliff to get an item, the key of the Dragon Chalice and found the place destroyed and all killed, he kwen the secret he had shared with his friend was the cause. When he finds a woman, next to death from a stab wound he knows that he must take her to her home and try to save her and find out what happened. When the girl, Haven, starts to recover he finds that she can not remember what happened and he puts her in the care of his sister, Ariana, and her husband, Braedon, also known as the Dark Hunter. The more Kenrick and Haven are together, the more they start to feel for each other But there are secrets and memories that might tear the apart.
Will Kenrick find the missing key and the other parts of the chalice?
Who or what is Haven?
What secret can Rand reveal when he shows up, not dead but on a quest for revenge?
In this book, number 2 of the Dragon Chalice series, written under a pen name by Lara Adrian, the author of the Midnight Breed series and reissued is a great read of the sword and sorcery genre with big male heros and strong female heroines which will keep the read entertained and wanting more.
Will Kenrick find the missing key and the other parts of the chalice?
Who or what is Haven?
What secret can Rand reveal when he shows up, not dead but on a quest for revenge?
In this book, number 2 of the Dragon Chalice series, written under a pen name by Lara Adrian, the author of the Midnight Breed series and reissued is a great read of the sword and sorcery genre with big male heros and strong female heroines which will keep the read entertained and wanting more.
September 11, 2013
So much better than the first book.
Now we have Kenrick, brother to Ariana of the first book, and Haven who's secret isn't all that hard to figure out.
Kenrick is a stoic and sometimes overbearing lord though his heart is pure and his intentions always honorable. Well, that is until his tempting victim starts moving around his home causing chaos in this heart and soul.
Haven appears to be the soul survivor of the brutal slayings that took place and Kenrick's friend's home. He's determined to find out what she knows but she wakes with almost no recollection of what has occured or even that much about herself.
It is hard to reconcile the moods of Kenrick but they never seem to be without cause.
Haven seemed the typically heroine but then her secret makes her more interesting.
There are a couple twists and turns but then end while good enough seemed to be a little lacking though leading into the next book nicely.
Now we have Kenrick, brother to Ariana of the first book, and Haven who's secret isn't all that hard to figure out.
Kenrick is a stoic and sometimes overbearing lord though his heart is pure and his intentions always honorable. Well, that is until his tempting victim starts moving around his home causing chaos in this heart and soul.
Haven appears to be the soul survivor of the brutal slayings that took place and Kenrick's friend's home. He's determined to find out what she knows but she wakes with almost no recollection of what has occured or even that much about herself.
It is hard to reconcile the moods of Kenrick but they never seem to be without cause.
Haven seemed the typically heroine but then her secret makes her more interesting.
There are a couple twists and turns but then end while good enough seemed to be a little lacking though leading into the next book nicely.
January 22, 2016
2,5 Sterne von mir für dieses Buch.
Es ist der 2. Teil der Drachenkelch-Saga. Diesmal geht es um Kendrick Clairmont. Er ist Ariana Clairmonts Bruder, die die Hauptrolle in Band 1 hatte.
Er ist weiterhin auf der Suche nach dem Drachenkelch. In den Ruinen der Burg von Randwulf of Greycliff, der ein Freund von Kendrick ist, findet er die schwerverletzte Haven. Diese nimmt er zu sich auf seine Burg, den sie hat ihr Gedächtnis verloren und ist die einzige Überlebende. Und so nimmt die Geschichte ihren Lauf.
Also ich kam gut in die Story rein, allerdings ist es für mich erst ab Seite 200 interressant geworden. Denn bis dahin, wurde die Story künstlich in die Länge gezogen, denn es ist von Anfang an klar was Haven ist. Außerdem fehlen in den ersten 200 Seiten die Fantasy. Bei einem Fantasy Roman ein No-Go.
Positiv ist, dass es aus Sichtweise beider Protagonisten, also Kendrick und Haven geschrieben ist.
Ich hoffe Band 3 wird besser :)
Es ist der 2. Teil der Drachenkelch-Saga. Diesmal geht es um Kendrick Clairmont. Er ist Ariana Clairmonts Bruder, die die Hauptrolle in Band 1 hatte.
Er ist weiterhin auf der Suche nach dem Drachenkelch. In den Ruinen der Burg von Randwulf of Greycliff, der ein Freund von Kendrick ist, findet er die schwerverletzte Haven. Diese nimmt er zu sich auf seine Burg, den sie hat ihr Gedächtnis verloren und ist die einzige Überlebende. Und so nimmt die Geschichte ihren Lauf.
Also ich kam gut in die Story rein, allerdings ist es für mich erst ab Seite 200 interressant geworden. Denn bis dahin, wurde die Story künstlich in die Länge gezogen, denn es ist von Anfang an klar was Haven ist. Außerdem fehlen in den ersten 200 Seiten die Fantasy. Bei einem Fantasy Roman ein No-Go.
Positiv ist, dass es aus Sichtweise beider Protagonisten, also Kendrick und Haven geschrieben ist.
Ich hoffe Band 3 wird besser :)
June 20, 2012
Heart of the Flame is the second book in St. John's Dragon Chalice series, and focuses on Kenrick, Ariana's brother and Haven, a mysterious beauty w/ a secret. Since I really enjoyed the first book, I was looking forward to reading this one and seeing where the story would go. And I was not dissapointed. Although I did not find it as good as the first book, I def enjoyed it; especially finding out more about the legend of the Dragon Chalice and it's magical powers and mystical origins. I also liked Haven's and Kenrick's characters, catching up w/ Ariana and Braedon, and meeting Rand (who I found out is the focus of the next book). I would def recommend this book and the series to others fans of historical romance. However, I would caution readers that there is a supernatural element to the story.
September 7, 2014
I loved Kenrick's story. It was fast paced and full of intrigue.
Kenrick has gone to his friend's destroyed home. He had entrusted his friend, Rand, with a key to the Dragon Chalice. While there he finds a woman, Haven, who was the sole survivor of the destruction. Haven has no memory of what happened to Kenrick's friends.
Over several weeks Kenrick and Haven work together to try and find out what happened. They also try to help Haven regain her memories. She knows she is more but not who or what she is. They are both in for a surprise when she shifts because Kenrick despises shapeshifters.
Kenrick has gone to his friend's destroyed home. He had entrusted his friend, Rand, with a key to the Dragon Chalice. While there he finds a woman, Haven, who was the sole survivor of the destruction. Haven has no memory of what happened to Kenrick's friends.
Over several weeks Kenrick and Haven work together to try and find out what happened. They also try to help Haven regain her memories. She knows she is more but not who or what she is. They are both in for a surprise when she shifts because Kenrick despises shapeshifters.
December 30, 2012
07/10 Punkte gebe ich für diese Fantasy-Schmonzette. Hier war mehr Schmachtfetzen als Fantasy enthalten... schade. Dennoch ein Hörgenuss, allein, weil Uve Teschner ein derartiges Können präsentiert, sich quasi in Sekundenbruchteilen von einer Figur in die nächste zu denken. Ein Genuss!
Mehr steht wie immer in meinem Blog.
Mehr steht wie immer in meinem Blog.
January 12, 2013
Flame is no lie, the romance here sizzles! I have to admit I jumped into the middle of this series and haven't read the first. It didn't hinder my enjoyment of this book, however.
Adrian created a complicated story line that is a joy to unravel right along with the characters, and nearly impossible to put down. A+.
Adrian created a complicated story line that is a joy to unravel right along with the characters, and nearly impossible to put down. A+.
August 19, 2012
Tis a beautifully written book :)
I love that you actually feel like you are back in their time, so innocent, which makes the love these characters share even better. The second book was fantastic and I can't wait till the next comes out.
I love that you actually feel like you are back in their time, so innocent, which makes the love these characters share even better. The second book was fantastic and I can't wait till the next comes out.
March 22, 2013
I thought this second book was a little better than the first, but still just kinda average. I'm gonna push through to the third book, but only because I'm super curious to see how they play Rand's story out.
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