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Core #1
Core
Cale can’t lie.
If only he could lie to the girl with the hard eyes and clenched fists, if only he could twist the truth, maybe he’d win her trust. But Cale can’t lie. And the only way to get 'her' is to tell her exactly what he is.
Journey through fight clubs, sky dungeons, and the perils of a forbidden world. Join Cale–an eighteen year old with one impossible secret–as he tears through the calloused blockade that is Ava Johnson.
And fearless Ava, buried in secrets of her own, faces the most frightening truth of her dark life.
She must learn to need someone.
If only he could lie to the girl with the hard eyes and clenched fists, if only he could twist the truth, maybe he’d win her trust. But Cale can’t lie. And the only way to get 'her' is to tell her exactly what he is.
Journey through fight clubs, sky dungeons, and the perils of a forbidden world. Join Cale–an eighteen year old with one impossible secret–as he tears through the calloused blockade that is Ava Johnson.
And fearless Ava, buried in secrets of her own, faces the most frightening truth of her dark life.
She must learn to need someone.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2013
67 people are currently reading
1343 people want to read
About the author
Teshelle Combs
58 books568 followersTeshelle Combs is the award-winning author of books like The Underglow and the First Collection.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 13, 2016
This book has been sitting on my kindle book shelf for two years. I know, terrible right!! I have not read a fantasy like this in a very very long time, but I was not disappointed. Overall I thought this was a great start to the Core series.
The author wrote this first book very good. I thought each character had originality and I think that is key when writing books and plots such as this. In this book I just really liked Cale. Cale was my favorite character in this one overall because of his attitude towards people, but I have to say Ava is my girl right there. She is a wonderfully written character, and I just loved how she had so much depth within her character and actions.
Eventhough I'm pretty late reading the series, I thought it was a good fantasy young adult read. 4.5 star rating
The author wrote this first book very good. I thought each character had originality and I think that is key when writing books and plots such as this. In this book I just really liked Cale. Cale was my favorite character in this one overall because of his attitude towards people, but I have to say Ava is my girl right there. She is a wonderfully written character, and I just loved how she had so much depth within her character and actions.
Eventhough I'm pretty late reading the series, I thought it was a good fantasy young adult read. 4.5 star rating
January 26, 2015
This book was so good that I had to force myself to go to sleep at one o'clock in the morning, since I needed to go to work at five a.m. I was so excited to continue reading the story and couldn't wait to go to my lunch break at work. The story is fast-paced and there was never a dull moment.
There's a secret society of dragons in human form who have their own clans and purposes. This is such an engrossing and well-written story about a rider and her dragon. There's more to the rider, Ava than meets the eye and I'm looking forward to the next book. There's a lot of intriguing and mysterious layers that could be developed from this story. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment and hoping it's not a long wait.
There's a secret society of dragons in human form who have their own clans and purposes. This is such an engrossing and well-written story about a rider and her dragon. There's more to the rider, Ava than meets the eye and I'm looking forward to the next book. There's a lot of intriguing and mysterious layers that could be developed from this story. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment and hoping it's not a long wait.
January 4, 2014
I read this throughout 2011-2012 when it was out on wattpad and fell in love with Cale and Ava. It ensnared me from the moment when I read the first line and I can tell you that I've stayed up waiting for another chapter to be uploaded. I basically inhaled this book when I got it on my kindle and I can't believe I found such a good story.
January 21, 2014
Wow!
Heather loaned me this book. I'm so glad she did.
Not my usual genre but,
once I got started, I couldn't put it down.
Heather loaned me this book. I'm so glad she did.
Not my usual genre but,
once I got started, I couldn't put it down.
April 11, 2014
dragons.. i love dragons.. nomore needs to be said. it was amazing and fun and just wonderful. i love reading about dragons.
June 28, 2013
I’ll be honest. I’ve never read a “dragon” book. I am totally devoted to vampires, creepy-crawlies, and fuzzy shapeshifters. Reading about dragons never crossed my mind. But it wasn’t just the beautiful cover of ‘Core’ that hooked me.
Combs’ writing is superbly descriptive and genuine. Her dialogue flows smoothly while offering a unique distinction to each character. Ava, the seventeen-year-old heroine, is brought to full bloom by Combs. She is damaged, yet strong. Walked on, yet above it all. Victimized, though never a victim. So the relationship she forms with Cale, a red dragon, feels very rewarding. Their relationship exposes small facets of Ava’s life that are otherwise hidden.
It is very pleasant to watch the boy chase the girl for once -and not be domineering, pushy, or creepy. Cale is sincere, to say the least, and has many layers, as do all of the characters. Most importantly, his attraction to Ava feels real. It is validated not by lust, but by true attraction on multiple levels. While the pace moves swiftly, Ava and Cale manage to share tender moments and small gestures that bind them even closer, endearing them more to readers. I especially appreciated the moments when Cale DID try to put his foot down and Ava does all but pat his head and say, “How sweet.”
Threaded throughout the storyline, propelling the drive further, are character traits for each type of being. For example, red dragons emit heat, are quite boisterous, and have the power to be healed by fire as well as entertained by it for hours, while blue dragons prefer stillness and would get along smashingly with Sheldon from ‘The Big Bang Theory’. The ‘Nightfolk’ are genius, too. This term covers all the “bumps in the night.” And they are anything but average portrayals. These melancholic creatures are intriguing.
‘Core’ is full of action, as well. I love that Combs isn’t afraid to push the limits. That’s the whole point of fiction, right? Especially fantasy. To grab the normal limits and throw them off a cliff. (There is a killer plane scene that left me with an evil smile.)
Overall, I enjoyed all of the characters (with the exception of Ava’s foster mother, who is just kind of a boob), and felt that the progression of Ava’s decent into the dragon world as a ‘rider’ was well paced and exceptionally written with realistic touches. ‘Core’ is a rare book that makes it to my ‘Read Again’ pile. It will definitely be a go-to book, and I look forward to the rest in the series.
In a nutshell: Ava is a young, local fighter, and she’s damned good. In the end, she realizes that she doesn’t have to approach everything like a fight. She can love just as well.
Combs’ writing is superbly descriptive and genuine. Her dialogue flows smoothly while offering a unique distinction to each character. Ava, the seventeen-year-old heroine, is brought to full bloom by Combs. She is damaged, yet strong. Walked on, yet above it all. Victimized, though never a victim. So the relationship she forms with Cale, a red dragon, feels very rewarding. Their relationship exposes small facets of Ava’s life that are otherwise hidden.
It is very pleasant to watch the boy chase the girl for once -and not be domineering, pushy, or creepy. Cale is sincere, to say the least, and has many layers, as do all of the characters. Most importantly, his attraction to Ava feels real. It is validated not by lust, but by true attraction on multiple levels. While the pace moves swiftly, Ava and Cale manage to share tender moments and small gestures that bind them even closer, endearing them more to readers. I especially appreciated the moments when Cale DID try to put his foot down and Ava does all but pat his head and say, “How sweet.”
Threaded throughout the storyline, propelling the drive further, are character traits for each type of being. For example, red dragons emit heat, are quite boisterous, and have the power to be healed by fire as well as entertained by it for hours, while blue dragons prefer stillness and would get along smashingly with Sheldon from ‘The Big Bang Theory’. The ‘Nightfolk’ are genius, too. This term covers all the “bumps in the night.” And they are anything but average portrayals. These melancholic creatures are intriguing.
‘Core’ is full of action, as well. I love that Combs isn’t afraid to push the limits. That’s the whole point of fiction, right? Especially fantasy. To grab the normal limits and throw them off a cliff. (There is a killer plane scene that left me with an evil smile.)
Overall, I enjoyed all of the characters (with the exception of Ava’s foster mother, who is just kind of a boob), and felt that the progression of Ava’s decent into the dragon world as a ‘rider’ was well paced and exceptionally written with realistic touches. ‘Core’ is a rare book that makes it to my ‘Read Again’ pile. It will definitely be a go-to book, and I look forward to the rest in the series.
In a nutshell: Ava is a young, local fighter, and she’s damned good. In the end, she realizes that she doesn’t have to approach everything like a fight. She can love just as well.
April 28, 2016
**I won this book free in a Goodreads First Read giveaway, but all the opinions expressed are my unbiased honest review.**
I was hooked at the last line of chapter 1. And the book kept getting better and better. I was lost in it and enjoyed pretty much everything!
This is a new exploration of dragon lore, and I felt it was very original. I really enjoyed the idea of a dragon’s core and the idea of it being sparked by a rider. Throughout the book as the dragon-rider pair got to know each other, a relationship was built on trust and familial love. This was not a relationship based on sexual attraction and was so much richer a story because of that fact. It wasn’t love that got in the way of situations or created unnecessary misunderstandings. The plot is driven strongly by the unique characters and their growth both individually and platonically. Ava is a great character who’s strong and intelligent. Cale is a bit like an Edward/Twilight-type character, intense and protective of his partner, but the two complement each other well. Their biggest obstacle is trust, and this wall is steadily chipped away through character struggles and sacrifices.
I liked the different dragon types, the Anders Nest, the relationships formed, the Great Nest, the mystery of the infamous “pearl,” the battles, the wit, the humor, the belief in God by both human and dragon kind, the unexpected kindnesses, the shifts in points of views (i.e., the black dragon rider and Ava),… WOW! There is just so much to enjoy about this book! The only thing I'm not a fan of is the cover. I do not think it clearly represents what the book is about to potential buyers.
I want more! When is the sequel coming out??? The ending left me satisfied but aware that there will(?)/should be more! There is so much potential! The last chapter was extremely well done. Combs is a very talented author. There is emotional depth, suspense, action, and lots of well-developed characters balanced to perfection in this book. I highly recommend “Core” and look forward to more from this author.
I was hooked at the last line of chapter 1. And the book kept getting better and better. I was lost in it and enjoyed pretty much everything!
This is a new exploration of dragon lore, and I felt it was very original. I really enjoyed the idea of a dragon’s core and the idea of it being sparked by a rider. Throughout the book as the dragon-rider pair got to know each other, a relationship was built on trust and familial love. This was not a relationship based on sexual attraction and was so much richer a story because of that fact. It wasn’t love that got in the way of situations or created unnecessary misunderstandings. The plot is driven strongly by the unique characters and their growth both individually and platonically. Ava is a great character who’s strong and intelligent. Cale is a bit like an Edward/Twilight-type character, intense and protective of his partner, but the two complement each other well. Their biggest obstacle is trust, and this wall is steadily chipped away through character struggles and sacrifices.
I liked the different dragon types, the Anders Nest, the relationships formed, the Great Nest, the mystery of the infamous “pearl,” the battles, the wit, the humor, the belief in God by both human and dragon kind, the unexpected kindnesses, the shifts in points of views (i.e., the black dragon rider and Ava),… WOW! There is just so much to enjoy about this book! The only thing I'm not a fan of is the cover. I do not think it clearly represents what the book is about to potential buyers.
I want more! When is the sequel coming out??? The ending left me satisfied but aware that there will(?)/should be more! There is so much potential! The last chapter was extremely well done. Combs is a very talented author. There is emotional depth, suspense, action, and lots of well-developed characters balanced to perfection in this book. I highly recommend “Core” and look forward to more from this author.
May 18, 2014
I liked Core. It has a different take on dragons. The MC is not an alpha male and is quite sweet. My only complaint is that I wish there was some romance. It might come in the sequel, but the hints were so subtle in Core that I'm afraid I imagined them.
June 21, 2013
what an amazing treat this was!!!! it left me wanting more...i can't wait to journey deeper into this fantastic realm created by one of the most gifted authors i have read in a long long time...
April 23, 2014
I absolutely loved it!! I found it hard to put down. I loved/hate every single character, especially Cale. I can't wait for the sequel!
June 17, 2014
Awesome book
This book is so great. I could hardly put it down, can't wait to read the next book. This book is a must read.
This book is so great. I could hardly put it down, can't wait to read the next book. This book is a must read.
April 29, 2014
Got lost in it!
January 5, 2015
I received this book in exchange for my honest review and I have to say, I couldn't be more thrilled for the opportunity. Be warned there may be some spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
First of all, I give this book five stars. Five insanely fun stars. I finished this book in just a few days and I cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of the books in this series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK to anyone who enjoys young adult urban fantasy/fantasy. You will not be disappointed.
Combs is an amazing writer, staying true to her characters as they’re thrown in to some crazy situations. The plot is solid and the intrigue is amazing. And I knew I wanted to learn more about these characters by the time I finished the first chapter. Really, who wouldn’t want to know more about a mysterious boxer, who happened to be a girl, who could take a hit to her face without so much as flinching. You could tell she’d had a hard life just from that. Show don’t tell. That’s the secret of good writing, and Combs excels at it.
This book follows the beginning journey of Ava and Cole two people who had never crossed paths before the day Ava had a boxing match that caught his attention.
Ava is a strong willed and closed person, preferring her own solace as opposed to trying to appease people. She's had a hard life, being in the foster system, and her current home isn't much to brag about. Sure, she has a nice foster mother, but her foster father is anything but. He's abusive and she's learned over the years how to hide her pain from the punishing blows and has even taken it upon herself to help her foster mother, taking the brunt of the abuse on her behalf.
She tries to make people think she doesn't care, but she cares, so much that sometimes her actions are at odds with her compulsion at self-preservation. When she meets Cole, he begins to pick away at her defenses one by one until there's nothing left but him.
Cole is a red dragon and dragons have a long and colorful history, with different types of dragons, each with their own unique language. Usually they stick to other dragons of their own specific color, but not Cole and his blended family.
Red dragons are confined to their human forms unless they have what’s called a ‘rider’, which is a person that is capable of igniting the transformation from human to dragon. A red dragons’ sole purpose in life was to protect humans from the nightfolk and werewolf, all of which are drawn to their prey like moths to a flame. The more attention, such as love, happiness, even dancing, a person receives, the more they want it for themselves.
This was written in limited third person, which means that each chapter was told through either Ava or Cole’s perspective. These two teenagers, each with their own complicated pasts are brought together.
While Ava is thrown headlong into Cole’s world, she begins to thaw around him almost immediately while at the same time taking the news of the existence of dragons with some understandable resistance. But when she’s attacked by a fanged werefolk, she sees firsthand just how different in which her world had become.
Cole and Ava make an agreement that she will be his rider, which sets them on a path toward their binding. They are sent to obtain some necessary items when suddenly everything changes and they’re attacked.
Cole’s life is turned upside down and they’re set on another journey to clear his name, and Ava can’t help but feel responsible and insists on trying to help him.
A mysterious person wants Cole dead for unsettling the balance and makes an unlikely pact with Ava when it’s discovered she’s not entirely what she seems.
They still have a long journey ahead of them at the end of this book, and though not all answers are provided, this is the very nature of such a series.
I’ve read through the reviews, and I saw a few reviews that mentioned it appeared this book was written in one sitting, that the plot was not believable, and the teenagers were essentially lacking in the IQ department. I saw NONE of these things. With the book being narrated in a closed third person perspective, the only perspective we get is through the character’s mind and observations. They weren’t stupid, and I actually thought they were pretty mature for their years, facing so much adversity with strong heads and a practical set of plans.
Seriously, read this book. You won’t regret it.
First of all, I give this book five stars. Five insanely fun stars. I finished this book in just a few days and I cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of the books in this series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK to anyone who enjoys young adult urban fantasy/fantasy. You will not be disappointed.
Combs is an amazing writer, staying true to her characters as they’re thrown in to some crazy situations. The plot is solid and the intrigue is amazing. And I knew I wanted to learn more about these characters by the time I finished the first chapter. Really, who wouldn’t want to know more about a mysterious boxer, who happened to be a girl, who could take a hit to her face without so much as flinching. You could tell she’d had a hard life just from that. Show don’t tell. That’s the secret of good writing, and Combs excels at it.
This book follows the beginning journey of Ava and Cole two people who had never crossed paths before the day Ava had a boxing match that caught his attention.
Ava is a strong willed and closed person, preferring her own solace as opposed to trying to appease people. She's had a hard life, being in the foster system, and her current home isn't much to brag about. Sure, she has a nice foster mother, but her foster father is anything but. He's abusive and she's learned over the years how to hide her pain from the punishing blows and has even taken it upon herself to help her foster mother, taking the brunt of the abuse on her behalf.
She tries to make people think she doesn't care, but she cares, so much that sometimes her actions are at odds with her compulsion at self-preservation. When she meets Cole, he begins to pick away at her defenses one by one until there's nothing left but him.
Cole is a red dragon and dragons have a long and colorful history, with different types of dragons, each with their own unique language. Usually they stick to other dragons of their own specific color, but not Cole and his blended family.
Red dragons are confined to their human forms unless they have what’s called a ‘rider’, which is a person that is capable of igniting the transformation from human to dragon. A red dragons’ sole purpose in life was to protect humans from the nightfolk and werewolf, all of which are drawn to their prey like moths to a flame. The more attention, such as love, happiness, even dancing, a person receives, the more they want it for themselves.
This was written in limited third person, which means that each chapter was told through either Ava or Cole’s perspective. These two teenagers, each with their own complicated pasts are brought together.
While Ava is thrown headlong into Cole’s world, she begins to thaw around him almost immediately while at the same time taking the news of the existence of dragons with some understandable resistance. But when she’s attacked by a fanged werefolk, she sees firsthand just how different in which her world had become.
Cole and Ava make an agreement that she will be his rider, which sets them on a path toward their binding. They are sent to obtain some necessary items when suddenly everything changes and they’re attacked.
Cole’s life is turned upside down and they’re set on another journey to clear his name, and Ava can’t help but feel responsible and insists on trying to help him.
A mysterious person wants Cole dead for unsettling the balance and makes an unlikely pact with Ava when it’s discovered she’s not entirely what she seems.
They still have a long journey ahead of them at the end of this book, and though not all answers are provided, this is the very nature of such a series.
I’ve read through the reviews, and I saw a few reviews that mentioned it appeared this book was written in one sitting, that the plot was not believable, and the teenagers were essentially lacking in the IQ department. I saw NONE of these things. With the book being narrated in a closed third person perspective, the only perspective we get is through the character’s mind and observations. They weren’t stupid, and I actually thought they were pretty mature for their years, facing so much adversity with strong heads and a practical set of plans.
Seriously, read this book. You won’t regret it.
June 6, 2014
I confess, this is my first dragon (? is this a thing?) book, but if a book is good, it's good. There was so much with this book that it seemed like three different books in one - where we started at was so different from where we ended, but I didn't stop reading it, so definitely a good start.
There were a lot of plot points - especially at the beginning - which seemed a bit superfluous, and I would not have missed them if they were simply cut from the story. Obviously, holding out for some of the characters who were quickly introduced then dismissed to come back in subsequent novels, but in this first book it seemed a bit....curious as to why they were even included in the first place. The domestic violence piece, to me, seemed like it was introduced and then dismissed rather quickly and a bit too easily.
I did like the slow growth between the two main characters - starting from awkward, "Hey, you're my person. Congrats!" to a mutual trust and understanding to a deep (possibly romantic) type of love. It didn't seem to happen overnight, which was very nicely executed. I also really enjoyed the mystery of why these two people were suddenly personae non grata in the dragon world. The world of dragon races that she created seemed to fit - and I really enjoyed the Spock-like brother. The plot was creative, the twists and turns were excellent, and the story kept me interested from the beginning to the end.
In fact, my only other gripe about the book was that it seemed to end in an odd spot. Not in the way that it ended, per say, but that it left so much unsaid and still "raveled" so to speak. I'm definitely interested in the sequel, and can't wait to see what else comes from this author.
There were a lot of plot points - especially at the beginning - which seemed a bit superfluous, and I would not have missed them if they were simply cut from the story. Obviously, holding out for some of the characters who were quickly introduced then dismissed to come back in subsequent novels, but in this first book it seemed a bit....curious as to why they were even included in the first place. The domestic violence piece, to me, seemed like it was introduced and then dismissed rather quickly and a bit too easily.
I did like the slow growth between the two main characters - starting from awkward, "Hey, you're my person. Congrats!" to a mutual trust and understanding to a deep (possibly romantic) type of love. It didn't seem to happen overnight, which was very nicely executed. I also really enjoyed the mystery of why these two people were suddenly personae non grata in the dragon world. The world of dragon races that she created seemed to fit - and I really enjoyed the Spock-like brother. The plot was creative, the twists and turns were excellent, and the story kept me interested from the beginning to the end.
In fact, my only other gripe about the book was that it seemed to end in an odd spot. Not in the way that it ended, per say, but that it left so much unsaid and still "raveled" so to speak. I'm definitely interested in the sequel, and can't wait to see what else comes from this author.
April 11, 2014
Cale eyes Ava at a fight and right away, his dragonblood knows she is his. He simply needs to convince her of the same, which will be no easy task, but is a journey worth embarking upon, where the reward is to fly as one: dragon and rider.
I'm so glad I stumbled across this book because I rather loved it. It's different from any of the other dragon stories I've read, is full of rich detail and history and honestly, sucks you in from the very first chapter.
My one criticism of Core is with the character of Ava - I can't get a read on her and maybe this is what the author wants, but at times it feels frustrating. I so badly want to like Ava, but I find myself liking her simply because Cale does. And again, this, too, might be a purposeful construct of the author, but as a girl who LOVES reading and writing about bad ass girls, and Ava is pretty bad ass, I so desperately want to wrap my little reader arms around Ava and I just can't. Me and girlfriend never clicked.
But Cale, he's another story. His fierce loyalty sucked me right in and his unwavering belief in Ava, even when he doubts himself, is poignantly captured in the small details of the story. His interactions with his family and friends mirror his treatment of Ava; as a reader, you trust Cale.
Combs is a gifted writer with an amazing imagination. She builds a world of dragons and magic that is both unique and beautiful and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I'm so glad I stumbled across this book because I rather loved it. It's different from any of the other dragon stories I've read, is full of rich detail and history and honestly, sucks you in from the very first chapter.
My one criticism of Core is with the character of Ava - I can't get a read on her and maybe this is what the author wants, but at times it feels frustrating. I so badly want to like Ava, but I find myself liking her simply because Cale does. And again, this, too, might be a purposeful construct of the author, but as a girl who LOVES reading and writing about bad ass girls, and Ava is pretty bad ass, I so desperately want to wrap my little reader arms around Ava and I just can't. Me and girlfriend never clicked.
But Cale, he's another story. His fierce loyalty sucked me right in and his unwavering belief in Ava, even when he doubts himself, is poignantly captured in the small details of the story. His interactions with his family and friends mirror his treatment of Ava; as a reader, you trust Cale.
Combs is a gifted writer with an amazing imagination. She builds a world of dragons and magic that is both unique and beautiful and I look forward to reading more of her work.
August 3, 2016
Got this book for free for an honest review,through making connection group, Thank you Teshelle for the book.
Ok i will start this review with, everyone loves dragons, hmm i think i should correct it to everyone who reads fantasy novels loves dragons, Whats not to like, magic, breathing fire and of course flight.
Our main character cale is one such dragon, a red dragon to be specific, and he has finally found a rider in the tough little cookie that is Ava.
This is their story about how they meet and what challenges they face as their relationship blossoms.
The dragon world is divided by their colors, the color also defines their behaviors, for example red dragons are very passionate and mostly rely on brute strength. Now i'll leave you with the description of only one dragon type to make you guess about what the others would act like. The world portrayed by our author is remarkable with all sorts of magical creatures, Sirens are one such type mentioned in this book.
People who like fantasy will love this addition to the genre, So if you can i would tell you to buy the book, you will love it.
Ok i will start this review with, everyone loves dragons, hmm i think i should correct it to everyone who reads fantasy novels loves dragons, Whats not to like, magic, breathing fire and of course flight.
Our main character cale is one such dragon, a red dragon to be specific, and he has finally found a rider in the tough little cookie that is Ava.
This is their story about how they meet and what challenges they face as their relationship blossoms.
The dragon world is divided by their colors, the color also defines their behaviors, for example red dragons are very passionate and mostly rely on brute strength. Now i'll leave you with the description of only one dragon type to make you guess about what the others would act like. The world portrayed by our author is remarkable with all sorts of magical creatures, Sirens are one such type mentioned in this book.
People who like fantasy will love this addition to the genre, So if you can i would tell you to buy the book, you will love it.
January 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book as a gift. I am a part of the Review Team @ The Paranormal Bookshelf
Category: YA, Paranormal, Dragons
Spoilers: No
Ava is a fighter, Cale is a teenage dragon. Dragons can't shift until they find and pact with their riders. Going to a fight one night Cale watches Ava fight and that's it for him, he knows she's his rider, now he just has to get her attention and hope she doesn't freak when she finds out about his world. But the first impression he makes on her doesn't work. Can he convince her to not only believe him, but to pact with him and become his rider?
I gave this book 5 stars because the characters are well developed, the world is set inside our world and the action doesn't stop. Ava is a hard chic with a soft heart and Cale is a caring male who is strong and protective.
Category: YA, Paranormal, Dragons
Spoilers: No
Ava is a fighter, Cale is a teenage dragon. Dragons can't shift until they find and pact with their riders. Going to a fight one night Cale watches Ava fight and that's it for him, he knows she's his rider, now he just has to get her attention and hope she doesn't freak when she finds out about his world. But the first impression he makes on her doesn't work. Can he convince her to not only believe him, but to pact with him and become his rider?
I gave this book 5 stars because the characters are well developed, the world is set inside our world and the action doesn't stop. Ava is a hard chic with a soft heart and Cale is a caring male who is strong and protective.
November 22, 2014
I really loved this book. Firstly it was about dragons, and who doesn't love dragons?! Not only that but the whole fantasy element with the dragons, the different types, their different powers, etc really sucked me in. Sometimes with fantasy novels, the author makes the world far too complex which leads me to losing interest but I just felt that everything made sense and left me wanting to know more.
Ava and Cale worked really well together. I love that it was Cale chasing Ava and that it wasn't a mushy fall in love thing, the connection was so much deeper and I really appreciated that.
I thought the ending was exciting and left me wanting more!! Can't wait to find out more about this world and whats next for Ava and Cale.
Ava and Cale worked really well together. I love that it was Cale chasing Ava and that it wasn't a mushy fall in love thing, the connection was so much deeper and I really appreciated that.
I thought the ending was exciting and left me wanting more!! Can't wait to find out more about this world and whats next for Ava and Cale.
June 25, 2014
Um...this book was pretty darn awesome. So different! This is one that you keep finding an excuse to read...that pile of dishes in the sink? Eh...it can wait. *wink* Wasn't sure if I would like Ava at first - she's so hard and jaded - but I grew to love her. And Cale? *Swoon* Actually, I can't think of one character I didn't like (well, except for the ones you're not supposed to like, naturally). Their personalities were well fleshed out. This author can definitely spin a yarn, let me tell ya! There is some light swearing for those who like to know (very light...like only a couple of times). But I will definitely be continuing this series and PLEASE say the wait won't be long!!!
October 15, 2014
Um wow! I am so surprised at this book, this was the first time I have ever read a book about dragons so obviously I didn’t know what to expect but I am so happy at how it turned out. The way Teshelle described every scene, every character, made you feel like you were literally in the book. Plus who doesn’t love that a character has your name! LOL. I loved the plot and characters in this book; it was beautifully written with so much details that I loved she added. I’m so happy that Core was the first book about dragons that I’ve read; Congratulations Teshelle on your success so far and I can’t wait to continue reading this series.
January 23, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
When I started Core, I was a little perturbed. Actually, I was A LOT perturbed! I really had a hard time starting this book. I really did not like Ava much AT ALL. I actually put it aside and read something else. I had to get away from it to think a bit. Well, I started it back up yesterday and I COULD NOT PUT IT BACK DOWN! I just needed some time to understand Ava a little more. That doesn't mean that she doesn't still frustrate me, cause she does, but I am more comfortable with her now. I cannot wait to continue this series!
When I started Core, I was a little perturbed. Actually, I was A LOT perturbed! I really had a hard time starting this book. I really did not like Ava much AT ALL. I actually put it aside and read something else. I had to get away from it to think a bit. Well, I started it back up yesterday and I COULD NOT PUT IT BACK DOWN! I just needed some time to understand Ava a little more. That doesn't mean that she doesn't still frustrate me, cause she does, but I am more comfortable with her now. I cannot wait to continue this series!
January 11, 2015
This book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review by the Author through the Paranormal, Fantasy, Dystopia and Romance Readers, Writers and Reviewers Group.
I've just finished this book and my immediete impressions are very positive. Core is a very unique story and not what I was expecting at all. It was fast paced and very well written while being easy to follow. Being a lover of fantasy, I do love a good Dragon story. I'd really reccommend this book, it was a throughly enjoyable read.
I've just finished this book and my immediete impressions are very positive. Core is a very unique story and not what I was expecting at all. It was fast paced and very well written while being easy to follow. Being a lover of fantasy, I do love a good Dragon story. I'd really reccommend this book, it was a throughly enjoyable read.
September 10, 2016
This is not my usual genre to read but OH BOY am I glad I did! From the first word to the last I was sucked in. I read it in one night and I am (not so) patiently awaiting the sequel!!
November 9, 2014
Core by Teshelle Combs is a young adult paranormal novel featuring dragons.
Cale Anders is a red dragon, and unlike the other four factions a red dragon needs a rider to be able to transform into his dragon counterpart. Cale thinks he has found that rider in Ava, a quiet girl who hides her pain behind a gruff exterior.
But even though a red dragon hasn't found a rider in over a hundred years there are still people who don't approve of Cale's choice and are willing to do anything to keep the two apart... even if they have to resort to murder.
I absolutely loved Cale and Ava, they're so perfect together. Cale is not a character I typically like but as I was reading Core I couldn't help but love him (he's so sweet!)
Ava is totally cool, even though she is very much closed off in the beginning of the book, after spending some time around Cale and other dragons she beginnings to open up a little more, and I suspect that by the time the third book comes out we'll have learned lots more about her.
I loved the world building in Combs' book and how each faction of dragon was very distinct, with each having their own language and ways of doing things and relating to the world. I felt it was very well done.
My only beef if any, was that sometimes I felt the plot twists happened very suddenly and unexpected,and the plot will take a completely different turn. While that's not necessarily bad and I often enjoy such unexpected turns, sometimes I felt they were a little jarring in Core.
Other than that,Core by Teshelle Combs is a great book full of wonderful characters and a unique world. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different in their paranormal romance.
Be sure to check out my video review of Core where I go gaga over dragons!
http://youtu.be/SlhQ5wsyytQ?list=UUvf...
Sincerely,
Kayti Nika Raet, author of the Outsider Chronicles
Cale Anders is a red dragon, and unlike the other four factions a red dragon needs a rider to be able to transform into his dragon counterpart. Cale thinks he has found that rider in Ava, a quiet girl who hides her pain behind a gruff exterior.
But even though a red dragon hasn't found a rider in over a hundred years there are still people who don't approve of Cale's choice and are willing to do anything to keep the two apart... even if they have to resort to murder.
I absolutely loved Cale and Ava, they're so perfect together. Cale is not a character I typically like but as I was reading Core I couldn't help but love him (he's so sweet!)
Ava is totally cool, even though she is very much closed off in the beginning of the book, after spending some time around Cale and other dragons she beginnings to open up a little more, and I suspect that by the time the third book comes out we'll have learned lots more about her.
I loved the world building in Combs' book and how each faction of dragon was very distinct, with each having their own language and ways of doing things and relating to the world. I felt it was very well done.
My only beef if any, was that sometimes I felt the plot twists happened very suddenly and unexpected,and the plot will take a completely different turn. While that's not necessarily bad and I often enjoy such unexpected turns, sometimes I felt they were a little jarring in Core.
Other than that,Core by Teshelle Combs is a great book full of wonderful characters and a unique world. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different in their paranormal romance.
Be sure to check out my video review of Core where I go gaga over dragons!
http://youtu.be/SlhQ5wsyytQ?list=UUvf...
Sincerely,
Kayti Nika Raet, author of the Outsider Chronicles
May 18, 2014
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Core tells the story of Cale, a red dragon who must find a rider in order to be able to change forms. Without a rider, he will never be able to fly. And he only gets one chance at finding a rider. If the person he chooses rejects him, he's done.
Enter Ava, the fierce fighter Cale has chosen. Ava is jaded and doesn't trust people. But soon Cale is able to win Ava over. When Cale reveals his secret to her, she quickly accepts his offer and follows him. This all happens in the beginning and quite fast. Teshelle Combs doesn't beat around the bush or drag stuff out unnecessarily.
The entire book felt like a roller coaster ride. It's action packed and there is never a dull moment. I'm serious. Usually you get your heart rate spiked a couple of times in this type of book, but with Core, be prepared to be at the edge of your seat.
The only thing that I thought it was missing in Core was more romance. There were some sweet moments between Cale and Ava but it all felt quite innocent. Like they were brother and sister. I hope their relationship evolves to something more in the sequel which I'll be reading for sure.
Core tells the story of Cale, a red dragon who must find a rider in order to be able to change forms. Without a rider, he will never be able to fly. And he only gets one chance at finding a rider. If the person he chooses rejects him, he's done.
Enter Ava, the fierce fighter Cale has chosen. Ava is jaded and doesn't trust people. But soon Cale is able to win Ava over. When Cale reveals his secret to her, she quickly accepts his offer and follows him. This all happens in the beginning and quite fast. Teshelle Combs doesn't beat around the bush or drag stuff out unnecessarily.
The entire book felt like a roller coaster ride. It's action packed and there is never a dull moment. I'm serious. Usually you get your heart rate spiked a couple of times in this type of book, but with Core, be prepared to be at the edge of your seat.
The only thing that I thought it was missing in Core was more romance. There were some sweet moments between Cale and Ava but it all felt quite innocent. Like they were brother and sister. I hope their relationship evolves to something more in the sequel which I'll be reading for sure.
June 14, 2014
I really liked this, I've not read much about dragons before so it was something new for me and I enjoyed it very much. The main characters were great and the story was well done. I liked that it felt much more like an actual love story than just a typical YA romance which tend to be more concerned with physical attraction than anything else. That side of things moves very slowly and I was fine with this as I was just happy getting to know the characters and finding out more about the supernatural elements of the story. The feelings between the main characters have been built up sufficiently now that any future romantic moments will have real weight to them and that is more than worth the slower pace in this first novel in the series. An excellent start to what I'm certain will be a very successful series. Recommended to fans of fantasy!
May 20, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really loved this book. Firstly it was about dragons, and who doesn't love dragons?! Not only that but the whole fantasy element with the dragons, the different types, their different powers, etc really sucked me in. Sometimes with fantasy novels, the author makes the world far too complex which leads me to losing interest but I just felt that everything made sense and left me wanting to know more.
Ava and Cale worked really well together. I love that it was Cale chasing Ava and that it wasn't a mushy fall in love thing, the connection was so much deeper and I really appreciated that.
I thought the ending was exciting and left me wanting more!! Can't wait to find out more about this world and whats next for Ava and Cale.
I really loved this book. Firstly it was about dragons, and who doesn't love dragons?! Not only that but the whole fantasy element with the dragons, the different types, their different powers, etc really sucked me in. Sometimes with fantasy novels, the author makes the world far too complex which leads me to losing interest but I just felt that everything made sense and left me wanting to know more.
Ava and Cale worked really well together. I love that it was Cale chasing Ava and that it wasn't a mushy fall in love thing, the connection was so much deeper and I really appreciated that.
I thought the ending was exciting and left me wanting more!! Can't wait to find out more about this world and whats next for Ava and Cale.
February 12, 2014
This book is fantastic. It's dragons... Done right. From the fight clubs to the action to the adventure to the relationships to the mystery, this novel has it all! Core won't take long to reach the ranks of the elites. I'd highly recommend reading it. Plus, the style of writing is as if it is ready to be a film script. Great story!
August 26, 2013
I highly recommend this book to everyone . . . it hooked me from page one, and I couldn't put it down. The story was packed with action, and I loved that Combs didn't use a typical female protagonist. Very original--I can honestly say I've never read a story like this.
March 31, 2014
3.5 stars
I kinda really enjoyed reading it but it was nothing special to be honest.
I kinda really enjoyed reading it but it was nothing special to be honest.
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