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Dragon Defenders of Destia Part I #1
Pack Dragon
An orphan searching for her future unlocks a destiny she never imagined...
War has engulfed Destia, reaching even the remote country-side, where foundling Eva Thirsk lives. When army recruiters come to town, Eva sees a chance to find a place where she truly belongs—something she’s never found on her adopted family’s farm. She enlists, hoping for adventure...and perhaps a chance to learn what happened to her parents.
But when one of her missions goes disastrously wrong, a powerful enemy is accidentally freed. The Venistrare Warlock, sealed away eons ago to protect Destia, has been unleashed—and things begin to change for Eva.
Strange visions, an electric sense of energy, and an odd feeling of deep connection to Perrell, the pack dragon she’s befriended… If she didn’t know better, Eva would think she’s somehow gained magic. Including the ability to bond to a dragon, but that’s not possible at her age…is it?
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
War has engulfed Destia, reaching even the remote country-side, where foundling Eva Thirsk lives. When army recruiters come to town, Eva sees a chance to find a place where she truly belongs—something she’s never found on her adopted family’s farm. She enlists, hoping for adventure...and perhaps a chance to learn what happened to her parents.
But when one of her missions goes disastrously wrong, a powerful enemy is accidentally freed. The Venistrare Warlock, sealed away eons ago to protect Destia, has been unleashed—and things begin to change for Eva.
Strange visions, an electric sense of energy, and an odd feeling of deep connection to Perrell, the pack dragon she’s befriended… If she didn’t know better, Eva would think she’s somehow gained magic. Including the ability to bond to a dragon, but that’s not possible at her age…is it?
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2023
446 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Ava Richardson
149 books425 followersAva Richardson writes epic page-turning Young Adult Fantasy books. She creates lovable characters and drops them into intricate worlds that are barely contained within your eReader. Ava has written 21 YA dragon fantasy series, including her bestselling series Return of the Darkening and her recent series, Destia's Dragon Shifter War.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 25, 2023
Firstly, Thank you to NetGallery, the author and the publisher, for providing me with the ARC of Pack Dragon in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3 stars
Pack Dragon was an enticing read that was easy to comprehend and gave the reader a lovely storyline.
This was an authentic coming-of-age story that followed the life of Eva Thirsk, a girl who wanted to make a change for her nation. Throughout the story, we follow Eva’s journey as she befriends an outcast dragon, Perrell. We follow their journey together as they try to figure out what strange powers Eva may have possessed whilst a raging war carries on around them. This story allows us to feel the bond between Eva and Perrell, creating beautiful moments between them.
I didn't feel the writing was too difficult to understand, but I did feel there could be some improvements to the story-building and character development. Overall, it was a stimulating read, which differed slightly from my usual book picks. This book certainly sets up nicely for the series ahead!
Rating: 3 stars
Pack Dragon was an enticing read that was easy to comprehend and gave the reader a lovely storyline.
This was an authentic coming-of-age story that followed the life of Eva Thirsk, a girl who wanted to make a change for her nation. Throughout the story, we follow Eva’s journey as she befriends an outcast dragon, Perrell. We follow their journey together as they try to figure out what strange powers Eva may have possessed whilst a raging war carries on around them. This story allows us to feel the bond between Eva and Perrell, creating beautiful moments between them.
I didn't feel the writing was too difficult to understand, but I did feel there could be some improvements to the story-building and character development. Overall, it was a stimulating read, which differed slightly from my usual book picks. This book certainly sets up nicely for the series ahead!
October 2, 2023
This was a fun book to read with a plot that was easy to follow, and the relationship between Eva and Perrell was arguably the best. This was an enjoyable coming of age story in which we follow Eva, a girl navigating her place in the world while unravelling the mystery of her past and finding her parents. Along following this path, Eva accidentally unleashes a powerful warlock that can change the tides of war for the worse for her home country. This ultimately set the plot forward the most, and it was enthralling to follow once the pace picked up. However, it did become very predictable with who would change sides. Eva also has a not shockingly decent grasp on her new magic, something that people spend years at an academy training to learn. I wish there was a bit more development on this aspect, and that there was more character and world-building developments.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 26, 2024
If you liked The Rangers Apprentice or Dragon Riders of Perth, you’ll love this. It’s written in a similarly straightforward but still meaningful style. The main character are of similar ages (~16 yrs), and it felt like all those classic YA fantasy series I read growing up in the 2000s, only with more active consideration of trying to appeal to a modern generation. It’s not one of those top-tier YA novels like the Hunger Games or something, but it does exactly what it set out to do: deliver fun, action, dragons, a developed magic system, and simple, easily understood characters. It was exactly what I needed at the moment— a fun, easy read that created a fantasy world in a reasonable way :) it was a quick read for me (like four-five hours/overnight). I definitely would have adored this at ~9-15 years old
October 1, 2023
This is book one of the Dragon Defenders of Destia series and the main character is orphan Eva Thirsk, who was raised by a local family in the small farming town of Flaxton, after her parents had left her at the Sanctuary there aged five. The couple who adopted her, Danwell and his wife Hana, have both died and she feels she doesn’t quite belong with his daughter Carina and the other children and grandchildren of the couple. She has always wanted to know where her parents came from and to hopefully be reunited with them. She knows they probably escaped from a place called Sima, as war with their neighbour’s escalated leaving them as refugees. Now she is sixteen and often given to daydreaming about what her life could be, as she should be doing her chores around the farm. Carina needs to get the next quota they have to provide the crown, but Eva offers to go and fetch it for her, promising to run there. When she gets into the town, she sees a group of army recruiters and their dragons, and wants to join up to get her chance to find her past. At least that will give her a chance and something she is deciding upon. On her way to the recruiters, she meets one of the dragon riders, Analise, who sticks up for her and allows her to be signed up as a recruit, but the stories she heard on the way to the training camp made her wonder a bit about what she might end up doing. It seems those of the nobility were chosen for the better positions, never mind what skills they might have. Any normal recruit was basically given the worst of jobs and Eva ends up in the stables looking after the horses, and then eventually the dragons, the pack dragons as well as the battle dragons. She has some issues with a certain dragon rider and his dragon, who seem to like bullying the much smaller pack dragons! Eva stands up for one of them, Perrell, and this soon starts a friendship and more with the smaller pack dragon.
She thinks Analise Quane is sticking up for her and helping her reach her goal of getting to Sima, but Analise has her own agenda in the war against the Fantis. One of the younger dragon riders in Analise’s group is Oliver Ramaya, who comes from a family of water mages, but who wanted to be seen as a dragonrider, not a potion maker like the rest of his family. He is only in his first year of proper training and is in his field training phase with a more experienced group of riders. She soon finds favour with the commander of the group, when she spots some intruders, and gets promoted to be an orderly for the group of riders Commander Vistrus leads, which includes Analise, Oliver and even the hated Maxus. The team gets sent on a special mission to check the magical prison of the dangerous Venistrare Warlock, but strange things start to happen to Eva as soon as they reach it. She is persuaded by one of them to go up to the stone pillars that form the prison, but while she is drawn to it, she also feels pushed away. She awakes in the night and finds herself at the top of the hill by the pillars as the warlock somehow escapes! He was locked away magically some fifty years ago to keep Destia safe, now his release will put all of Destia at risk and give the Fantisian’s an unstoppable force for their army. Her connection to Perrell seems stronger as well, leaving her wondering if she actually has magic from the huge pulse of power she felt as the warlock broke free. When she, Perrell, Oliver and his dragon Hane, are being pursued by the Fantis, she somehow manages to use magic to bring down rocks on the enemy. But when she tells Oliver, he says that it is impossible for her to suddenly get magic! She even finds that Perrell has formed a bond with her, something that is again impossible if she doesn’t have magic. Strange dreams or visions show her links to a strange woman and a very familiar blanket that was left with her when her parents dropped her off. So much is tied to her actual birth parents and is slowly becoming revealed as magic seems to have become part of her life now. Her destiny is about to change yet again, after she and Oliver help stop one situation, as the war still rages on near the border and the warlock begins to grow his strength after his imprisonment. There is bullying, betrayal and so much more, as a fairly naïve young woman strikes out into the army to try and discover her heritage and ends up bonded with w pack dragon and in the midst of the very war she has joined to try and make a difference and help others. Her journey has only really just begun as the war continues and she is sent to learn more about her magic and gain more skills as a dragon rider. I can’t wait to see what will come for her next as her training begins and the war continues. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She thinks Analise Quane is sticking up for her and helping her reach her goal of getting to Sima, but Analise has her own agenda in the war against the Fantis. One of the younger dragon riders in Analise’s group is Oliver Ramaya, who comes from a family of water mages, but who wanted to be seen as a dragonrider, not a potion maker like the rest of his family. He is only in his first year of proper training and is in his field training phase with a more experienced group of riders. She soon finds favour with the commander of the group, when she spots some intruders, and gets promoted to be an orderly for the group of riders Commander Vistrus leads, which includes Analise, Oliver and even the hated Maxus. The team gets sent on a special mission to check the magical prison of the dangerous Venistrare Warlock, but strange things start to happen to Eva as soon as they reach it. She is persuaded by one of them to go up to the stone pillars that form the prison, but while she is drawn to it, she also feels pushed away. She awakes in the night and finds herself at the top of the hill by the pillars as the warlock somehow escapes! He was locked away magically some fifty years ago to keep Destia safe, now his release will put all of Destia at risk and give the Fantisian’s an unstoppable force for their army. Her connection to Perrell seems stronger as well, leaving her wondering if she actually has magic from the huge pulse of power she felt as the warlock broke free. When she, Perrell, Oliver and his dragon Hane, are being pursued by the Fantis, she somehow manages to use magic to bring down rocks on the enemy. But when she tells Oliver, he says that it is impossible for her to suddenly get magic! She even finds that Perrell has formed a bond with her, something that is again impossible if she doesn’t have magic. Strange dreams or visions show her links to a strange woman and a very familiar blanket that was left with her when her parents dropped her off. So much is tied to her actual birth parents and is slowly becoming revealed as magic seems to have become part of her life now. Her destiny is about to change yet again, after she and Oliver help stop one situation, as the war still rages on near the border and the warlock begins to grow his strength after his imprisonment. There is bullying, betrayal and so much more, as a fairly naïve young woman strikes out into the army to try and discover her heritage and ends up bonded with w pack dragon and in the midst of the very war she has joined to try and make a difference and help others. Her journey has only really just begun as the war continues and she is sent to learn more about her magic and gain more skills as a dragon rider. I can’t wait to see what will come for her next as her training begins and the war continues. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 1, 2024
Delightful Start to a New YA Dragon Fantasy Series
I absolutely adore the YA dragon fantasy stories written by this author! This is another great kickoff to a new series, one I'm looking forward to listening to more of. I like how in this book, the heroine really starts from nothing and is not treated well by most others in the book for a long time. That may seem like a strange thing to like, but often, in even well-written fantasy, the hero or heroine is royalty or otherwise privileged and actually has a pretty easy life until called to adventure or disaster strikes. In this book, both the heroine and the dragon mentioned in the book's title are just about the lowest of the low within their society. I actually found the concept of pack dragons to be interesting. Again, usually in dragon fantasy stories, the dragons are big and powerful. This book does have those kinds of dragons, but the dragon at the heart of this story is the dragon equivalent of a pack mule (hence the name!). She's too small and hasn't been bonded with a human—which allows all the dragons in their realm to achieve their full potential—so she's relegated to fetch and carry.
The heroine has so much heart and pluck, the perfect YA heroine. Even though she is relatively powerless herself, she will not stand seeing others being mistreated by those in power. That's how she soon becomes friends with a pack dragon, after the heroine defends her against a bullying battle dragon. The heroine finds an unlikely ally, and I enjoyed watching their growing friendship. I hope future books will feature a romantic element between them. The society in this book is very stratified, and it's hard to break away from that, even if you show potential. But our heroine certainly has potential that eventually pretty much everyone can see, and at the end of the story, the right person appears to be putting her on the path for her to realize her greater destiny. This book has a lot of action, intrigue, betrayal, and so much more. If you enjoy well-written YA fantasy stories as I do, you can't go wrong with an Ava Richardson story or series. This appears to be the start of another great one. Highly recommended.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I absolutely adore the YA dragon fantasy stories written by this author! This is another great kickoff to a new series, one I'm looking forward to listening to more of. I like how in this book, the heroine really starts from nothing and is not treated well by most others in the book for a long time. That may seem like a strange thing to like, but often, in even well-written fantasy, the hero or heroine is royalty or otherwise privileged and actually has a pretty easy life until called to adventure or disaster strikes. In this book, both the heroine and the dragon mentioned in the book's title are just about the lowest of the low within their society. I actually found the concept of pack dragons to be interesting. Again, usually in dragon fantasy stories, the dragons are big and powerful. This book does have those kinds of dragons, but the dragon at the heart of this story is the dragon equivalent of a pack mule (hence the name!). She's too small and hasn't been bonded with a human—which allows all the dragons in their realm to achieve their full potential—so she's relegated to fetch and carry.
The heroine has so much heart and pluck, the perfect YA heroine. Even though she is relatively powerless herself, she will not stand seeing others being mistreated by those in power. That's how she soon becomes friends with a pack dragon, after the heroine defends her against a bullying battle dragon. The heroine finds an unlikely ally, and I enjoyed watching their growing friendship. I hope future books will feature a romantic element between them. The society in this book is very stratified, and it's hard to break away from that, even if you show potential. But our heroine certainly has potential that eventually pretty much everyone can see, and at the end of the story, the right person appears to be putting her on the path for her to realize her greater destiny. This book has a lot of action, intrigue, betrayal, and so much more. If you enjoy well-written YA fantasy stories as I do, you can't go wrong with an Ava Richardson story or series. This appears to be the start of another great one. Highly recommended.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
January 20, 2024
Synopsis: War has engulfed Destia, reaching even the remote country-side, where foundling Eva Thirsk lives. When army recruiters come to town, Eva sees a chance to find a place where she truly belongs—something she’s never found on her adopted family’s farm. She enlists, hoping for adventure...and perhaps a chance to learn what happened to her parents.
But when one of her missions goes disastrously wrong, a powerful enemy is accidentally freed. The Venistrare Warlock, sealed away eons ago to protect Destia, has been unleashed—and things begin to change for Eva.
Strange visions, an electric sense of energy, and an odd feeling of deep connection to Perrell, the pack dragon she’s befriended… If she didn’t know better, Eva would think she’s somehow gained magic. Including the ability to bond to a dragon, but that’s not possible at her age…is it?
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
My thoughts: The book gripped me from the get-go with its vivid yet unembellished prose. The characters were carved with precision, each bearing scars and stories that drew me in. The narrative doesn't shy away from the gritty realities, serving high-stakes situations and unexpected twists that keep the adrenaline pumping. It's a raw journey of peaks and troughs, stripped of pretense yet deeply profound. The characters' struggles hit close to the bone, their interactions raw and real. A damn good read overall; while a couple of characters could pack a bit more punch, it stands solid in its delivery.
But when one of her missions goes disastrously wrong, a powerful enemy is accidentally freed. The Venistrare Warlock, sealed away eons ago to protect Destia, has been unleashed—and things begin to change for Eva.
Strange visions, an electric sense of energy, and an odd feeling of deep connection to Perrell, the pack dragon she’s befriended… If she didn’t know better, Eva would think she’s somehow gained magic. Including the ability to bond to a dragon, but that’s not possible at her age…is it?
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
My thoughts: The book gripped me from the get-go with its vivid yet unembellished prose. The characters were carved with precision, each bearing scars and stories that drew me in. The narrative doesn't shy away from the gritty realities, serving high-stakes situations and unexpected twists that keep the adrenaline pumping. It's a raw journey of peaks and troughs, stripped of pretense yet deeply profound. The characters' struggles hit close to the bone, their interactions raw and real. A damn good read overall; while a couple of characters could pack a bit more punch, it stands solid in its delivery.
September 7, 2023
🐲🐲ONE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY🐲🐲
Blazing blizzards ben! Ava hit the motherload, delivering one enticingly bewitching, sinfully evocative, skillfully enthralling, tantalizingly decadent, rock-our-world raging tempest, weaving through the sizzling heat, fiery passion and flaming desire, launching this sweet treat to staggering heights. Sparks ignite setting blaze and watching it burn, brimming with the riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying threats, spinning danger, electrifying suspense and intense situations ensue along with a boatload of revelations, blasting this hot little number to life spectacularly. Entwined, combined and crisply coiled, attentive to soaring ups and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and inspiring in it's strength, putting our characters through their paces, fusing this baby together seamlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such intoxicating intensity and scorching heat, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, bringing our characters closer, uniting them together beautifully. The characters interactions and electrifying atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Fabulous job Ava, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Blazing blizzards ben! Ava hit the motherload, delivering one enticingly bewitching, sinfully evocative, skillfully enthralling, tantalizingly decadent, rock-our-world raging tempest, weaving through the sizzling heat, fiery passion and flaming desire, launching this sweet treat to staggering heights. Sparks ignite setting blaze and watching it burn, brimming with the riveting drama, gripping intrigue, underlying threats, spinning danger, electrifying suspense and intense situations ensue along with a boatload of revelations, blasting this hot little number to life spectacularly. Entwined, combined and crisply coiled, attentive to soaring ups and agonizing downs, breathtaking in it's simplicity and inspiring in it's strength, putting our characters through their paces, fusing this baby together seamlessly. The attraction and chemistry collides with such intoxicating intensity and scorching heat, exploding with boundless emotions and infinite affections, bringing our characters closer, uniting them together beautifully. The characters interactions and electrifying atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating a majestic backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you're part of the story instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Fabulous job Ava, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
September 27, 2023
An orphan searching for her future unlocks a destiny she never imagined...
War has engulfed Destia, reaching even the remote country-side, where foundling Eva Thirsk lives. When army recruiters come to town, Eva sees a chance to find a place where she truly belongs—something she’s never found on her adopted family’s farm. She enlists, hoping for adventure...and perhaps a chance to learn what happened to her parents.
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
Pack Dragon was an enticing read that was easy to comprehend and gave the reader an easy to follow, genuinely charming storyline.
This was a delightful-of-age story centred around our main character; Eva Thirsk,
A girl who wanted to make a make a change in the world and make more for herself than what her seemingly pre-ordained destiny dictated.
We follow Eva through her humble beginnings on her adoptive families farm, to joining the military and forming bonds that will change her life forever.
The writing style of Ava Richardson, is easy to follow, concise and simplistic without being being uninteresting.
Overall, it was an engaging and enjoyable read which I thouroughly enjoyed. The ending sets up for the following book beautifully.
Thank you to Ava Richardson, NetGalley and Relay Publishing for the opportunity to read this advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Happy publishing day!
War has engulfed Destia, reaching even the remote country-side, where foundling Eva Thirsk lives. When army recruiters come to town, Eva sees a chance to find a place where she truly belongs—something she’s never found on her adopted family’s farm. She enlists, hoping for adventure...and perhaps a chance to learn what happened to her parents.
As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher each day. Can Eva and Perrell figure out Eva’s new powers in time—or will they be consumed by the fires of annihilation?
Pack Dragon was an enticing read that was easy to comprehend and gave the reader an easy to follow, genuinely charming storyline.
This was a delightful-of-age story centred around our main character; Eva Thirsk,
A girl who wanted to make a make a change in the world and make more for herself than what her seemingly pre-ordained destiny dictated.
We follow Eva through her humble beginnings on her adoptive families farm, to joining the military and forming bonds that will change her life forever.
The writing style of Ava Richardson, is easy to follow, concise and simplistic without being being uninteresting.
Overall, it was an engaging and enjoyable read which I thouroughly enjoyed. The ending sets up for the following book beautifully.
Thank you to Ava Richardson, NetGalley and Relay Publishing for the opportunity to read this advance readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Happy publishing day!
September 25, 2023
Eva Thirsk is someone who wants to make a difference for the people of her nation. She is a foundling that was left by refugees in a small farming village and was taken in by one of the farm families to be raised as one of their own. When her adoptive father dies, she becomes listless and feels that she is unwanted and superfluous to the family that remains. She runs away to join the army and ends up working in the stables looking after the horses, as well as the Pack and Battle Dragons. There she meets Perrell, the Pack Dragon, who, like Ava, joined the army to be a Battle Dragon, but because of her size was relegated to being a pack animal. Well, I won’t say more as I don’t want to ruin this for anyone.
This is a nice coming-of-age story where the underdogs come into their own. Everyone loves a good underdog story, and this one involves magic and dragons! This is also a nice easy read and is a good start to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a nice coming-of-age story where the underdogs come into their own. Everyone loves a good underdog story, and this one involves magic and dragons! This is also a nice easy read and is a good start to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2023
It has a CAWPILE score of 8.71 for me, so a 4.5 stars, but I did enjoy it so I rounded it to 5
It's been a while since a read a book where the MC was so young (16 y/o) and at times I forgot about it. I wish it was a bit more descriptive, but I was captivated by the story anyway.
The story happens during the war, in a world where dragons can speak, the discrepancy between social classes is obvious and the heroine is trying to achieve the life she always dreamt of.
This book has a few similarities with some more popular books like:
*SPOILERS* sort of
-discovery of powers which come with a higher social status like Red Queen
-a spirit offering guidance like Elena does in Throne of Glass
-dragons (obviously) that are bound with their riders like Forth Wing
-the magic system reminds me of Air Awakens/ A Trial of Sorceress as in everybody is able to control one element and should be able to control only that one
It's been a while since a read a book where the MC was so young (16 y/o) and at times I forgot about it. I wish it was a bit more descriptive, but I was captivated by the story anyway.
The story happens during the war, in a world where dragons can speak, the discrepancy between social classes is obvious and the heroine is trying to achieve the life she always dreamt of.
This book has a few similarities with some more popular books like:
*SPOILERS* sort of
-discovery of powers which come with a higher social status like Red Queen
-a spirit offering guidance like Elena does in Throne of Glass
-dragons (obviously) that are bound with their riders like Forth Wing
-the magic system reminds me of Air Awakens/ A Trial of Sorceress as in everybody is able to control one element and should be able to control only that one
September 26, 2023
This is a wonderful new addition from Ava Richardson! Eva, a young woman trying to find her past, joins the local army, encountering much intolerance since she has no money or a noble title. She is put to work taking care of the Dragon stables, and ends up defending one of the smaller pack dragons, Perrell, from one of the bonded warrior dragons. Eva and Perrell eventually bond and make some friends, but also make enemies!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their adventure getting used to Eva riding astride Perrell, and how, with a bit of smart thinking and knowledge about plants, Eva and Perrell save the Fort of Esseam from being taken over by their enemies the Fantisians!
Can't wait for the next few books!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their adventure getting used to Eva riding astride Perrell, and how, with a bit of smart thinking and knowledge about plants, Eva and Perrell save the Fort of Esseam from being taken over by their enemies the Fantisians!
Can't wait for the next few books!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 10, 2023
Ava Richardson is back with another coming-of-age story with dragons in the new series "Dragon Defenders of Destia." Eva is an orphan who, after she was left at a sanctuary by her parents, was adopted by a local family. But she has never felt at home there. She has always wondered why her parents left her and never came back. When recruiters come to town looking for people to join the army, she thinks maybe this is a way she can go to where she knew her parents were from. So she runs away to join the army. There she finds unexpected friends, enemies, and an ability that she never expected.
I loved this story. Eva is a delightful character and I love Perrell.
Wonderful start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this story. Eva is a delightful character and I love Perrell.
Wonderful start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2023
I enjoyed this interesting story of an adopted young girl, yearning for a more exciting life, wanting to explore life out of the farming village she was raised in and curious about her biological parents. Eva decides to enlist in the army, expecting life to change, but wow, she couldn’t predict how drastically! She does learn why there’s a saying: ‘Never meet your heroes’. This action-packed book is filled with danger, Battle dragons, Pack dragons, war, magic, Fantis, dragon-riders, Nobles, mystery, the Venistrare Warlock, bonds, missions, betrayal, mages, suspense, discovery, heroes, wit, battles and more!
September 28, 2023
Really enjoyed reading this first book in Ava's new series.
Eva is an orphan growing up with her adoptive family in a small farm community in Destia. Her life is routine and boring and she want to try something new. Since she is at the age where she can go out on her own, she decides to join the army and see where that will take her. It starts out slow but she begins to find out what her real destiny is and more about her real parents,.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eva is an orphan growing up with her adoptive family in a small farm community in Destia. Her life is routine and boring and she want to try something new. Since she is at the age where she can go out on her own, she decides to join the army and see where that will take her. It starts out slow but she begins to find out what her real destiny is and more about her real parents,.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2023
As Eva, an orphan, sees a chance to make a change and find a place to belong, she enlists in the army. Her land is at war and she has dreams of adventure and belonging. She has some strange visions and longs to find out about her roots and family. As she meets up with Perrell. a pack dragon, things begin to change and they sense a connection. As events unwind will they be successful? This begins a new series and I look forward to seeing how things progress for them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2024
An exciting adventure, with twist and terms. Unexpectedly thrilling and emotional. The main characters were strong and well written. You’re taken on and absorbed into a thrilling journey of adventure and discovery.
Eva is not your usual person for magic and Dragon bonds. In joining the military she is dragged into a completely different world of challenges. This is a very different adventure and very well written. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eva is not your usual person for magic and Dragon bonds. In joining the military she is dragged into a completely different world of challenges. This is a very different adventure and very well written. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 27, 2023
Ava Richardson’s newest story Pack Dragon is another brilliant tail. It follows the main characters journey as she faces difficult decisions, ancient evils, and uncertainty as to where she belongs. Once again the queen of dragon riders has created a spectacular coming of age story. I can’t wait to see where she goes next after such a start with Pack Dragon.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 28, 2023
very good
I enjoyed the book. The MC and her dragon are quite likable and the side characters are pretty solid. Both the MC and Dragon are solid underdogs, but not victims of a horrid upbringing. The antagonists are also well developed. Big and mysterious and dangerous, full of betrayal and unclear motives. A great first entry to the series.
I enjoyed the book. The MC and her dragon are quite likable and the side characters are pretty solid. Both the MC and Dragon are solid underdogs, but not victims of a horrid upbringing. The antagonists are also well developed. Big and mysterious and dangerous, full of betrayal and unclear motives. A great first entry to the series.
October 7, 2023
Packs a Punch!
I just loved this book. I enjoy all of Ava’s books but I love this first book of this series! I devoured this book. I love Eva’s determination and feistiness along with her devotion to Perrell! Oliver’s friendship across the division between magic welder’s and ordinary soldiers truly is inspiring!
I just loved this book. I enjoy all of Ava’s books but I love this first book of this series! I devoured this book. I love Eva’s determination and feistiness along with her devotion to Perrell! Oliver’s friendship across the division between magic welder’s and ordinary soldiers truly is inspiring!
October 13, 2023
I have always been a fan of Ava Richardson’s books and this one did not let me down. It kept me captivated the entire time. The heroine is brave and strong. She doesn’t need men to help her. And the betrayal!! Oh I could keep on about how great this book is.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
AWESOME! I love how Eva and Perrel bond... they are basically under the same circumstances, so they get each other instantly. I also like that the warlock plot is still open, I can't tell what's going on there and considering where the characters will be on the next book, I don't know where that plot will go... and I need to know. So, hopefuly, I will get access to the sequel soon.
December 1, 2023
Another great series from Ava Richardson!!!!!
Congratulations to Ava Richardson for this amazing series. It’s extremely hard to find such an interesting and exciting author who not only writes intelligently but also provides top rated plots, characters and excitement in the stories. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
Congratulations to Ava Richardson for this amazing series. It’s extremely hard to find such an interesting and exciting author who not only writes intelligently but also provides top rated plots, characters and excitement in the stories. I’m really looking forward to the next book.
December 5, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and of course the author for gifting me this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was really hopeful for this new YA dragon fantasy book and boy it did not disappoint! Packed full of adventure and I love a good fantasy dragon book - the main character Eva is so brave and strong and determined.
I can't wait for another book!
I was really hopeful for this new YA dragon fantasy book and boy it did not disappoint! Packed full of adventure and I love a good fantasy dragon book - the main character Eva is so brave and strong and determined.
I can't wait for another book!
January 8, 2024
Really fun book
Loved that the pack dragon got to have so much fun in this book. The main character had a hard journey but gained and learned a lot. There was a lot of action, adventure, magic, and some fun thrown in. I really enjoyed this book and am glad it is part of a series. I definitely recommend this book and hope the other two in the series ar just as good.
Loved that the pack dragon got to have so much fun in this book. The main character had a hard journey but gained and learned a lot. There was a lot of action, adventure, magic, and some fun thrown in. I really enjoyed this book and am glad it is part of a series. I definitely recommend this book and hope the other two in the series ar just as good.
September 1, 2024
Though a nice story, it is very similar to a lot of other stories out there and so not a page Turner. That said I do like that the MC get close to w pack dragon who works hauling loads and is much smaller than the Dragon riders battle dragons. Narrator does a very good job with the entire storyline.
September 30, 2024
I listened to the Pack Dragon audiobook. It was enjoyable and was a solid start to the series. The narrator, however was rather monotone when not voicing character dialogue and this took away from the overall experience. I will be reading rather than listening to future books due to this.
I received a free copy of this book audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2023
Intoxicating Read
“Pack Dragon” tells the story of Eva, a foundling who finds herself looking for a way to belong. This original thought-provoking coming-of-age tale. Eva joins the military and her life begins to change, things will never be the same again. Pack Dragon is and exciting read.
“Pack Dragon” tells the story of Eva, a foundling who finds herself looking for a way to belong. This original thought-provoking coming-of-age tale. Eva joins the military and her life begins to change, things will never be the same again. Pack Dragon is and exciting read.
September 27, 2023
Once I started reading I couldn’t put down this captivating read. I loved every bit of the book and can’t wait for the next book to see how Eva and Perrells story continues.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2023
A great read
Our first foray into the world of Destia. We meet Eva and her dragon Perrill. a great read, suitable for young and old lovers of fantasy alike.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Our first foray into the world of Destia. We meet Eva and her dragon Perrill. a great read, suitable for young and old lovers of fantasy alike.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2023
Dragon defender of Destia
A good start to the adventure of Eva a nobody from a small village. Hoping to find her magic so that she can become a dragon rider. The characters quickly came alive as the story unfolded.
A good start to the adventure of Eva a nobody from a small village. Hoping to find her magic so that she can become a dragon rider. The characters quickly came alive as the story unfolded.
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