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Dracones
Almost every ancient civilization has stories of some form of dragon, from the winged serpents of Asian lore to the traditional Western image of the fire-breathing behemoth. Literature is filled with stories of valiant heroes riding into the jaws of danger to slay the beast and rescue the princess. But sometimes, the knight in shining armor is less interested in the maiden in distress than in the dragon he's supposed to slay. "Dracones" brings together seven stories detailing the power and majesty of a dragon's love.
Most of the humans in "Fugue in Gold and Fire" are unknowingly animals in human form, and when the Vesti Moon rises, the animal forms break free, with no memory of their human lives. Lovers Adri and Dru search for a way to recognize each other during the change, but when Dru's true form turns out to be a dragon, he considers never changing back. Peter Harington aspires to be a "Teller of Tales" when he submits his fictional dragon manuscript for publication. Tom, the editor assigned to work with Peter, though, finds the worldbuilding a little too real and is determined to learn the truth. When the dragon Daire is wounded, only the "Weird Magics" of alchemist Cyras can heal him. But when one of the fae is found killed and her blood drained, Daire suspects his savior of illegal experimentation and murder.
Then, in "Chanson Commencante de Guerre", the ancient dragon Rayvak finds himself strangely drawn to the young dragon shifter Stormy, despite the years of war between the dragons and the dragon shifters. The two must overcome centuries of animosity if they are to find any happiness together. Psychic David and his dragon lover Ferdie are literally "Two in the Bush" when their camping trip is interrupted by the magical guardians of their forest. They can sense the power of the dragon, but believe that David and Ferdie have it bound and demand that they release it or die! "Finding the Rain" is the task charged to Buwei, sent with offerings to the Dragon Lord Shenlong in hopes of ending his province' drought, a journey none have ever returned from. But the dragon's temple keeper, Tian, wants Buwei for himself and is willing to defy even the great dragon to keep him. Finally, in "Lukos Heat", a mission of revenge sends the dragon Najlah into the mountains and into an unlikely partnership with the wolf shifter Barkus. And the closer they get to their quarry, the more they realize that nothing is as it appears.
Most of the humans in "Fugue in Gold and Fire" are unknowingly animals in human form, and when the Vesti Moon rises, the animal forms break free, with no memory of their human lives. Lovers Adri and Dru search for a way to recognize each other during the change, but when Dru's true form turns out to be a dragon, he considers never changing back. Peter Harington aspires to be a "Teller of Tales" when he submits his fictional dragon manuscript for publication. Tom, the editor assigned to work with Peter, though, finds the worldbuilding a little too real and is determined to learn the truth. When the dragon Daire is wounded, only the "Weird Magics" of alchemist Cyras can heal him. But when one of the fae is found killed and her blood drained, Daire suspects his savior of illegal experimentation and murder.
Then, in "Chanson Commencante de Guerre", the ancient dragon Rayvak finds himself strangely drawn to the young dragon shifter Stormy, despite the years of war between the dragons and the dragon shifters. The two must overcome centuries of animosity if they are to find any happiness together. Psychic David and his dragon lover Ferdie are literally "Two in the Bush" when their camping trip is interrupted by the magical guardians of their forest. They can sense the power of the dragon, but believe that David and Ferdie have it bound and demand that they release it or die! "Finding the Rain" is the task charged to Buwei, sent with offerings to the Dragon Lord Shenlong in hopes of ending his province' drought, a journey none have ever returned from. But the dragon's temple keeper, Tian, wants Buwei for himself and is willing to defy even the great dragon to keep him. Finally, in "Lukos Heat", a mission of revenge sends the dragon Najlah into the mountains and into an unlikely partnership with the wolf shifter Barkus. And the closer they get to their quarry, the more they realize that nothing is as it appears.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2013
4 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Armstrong
56 books132 followersSupport S.L. Armstrong & K. Piet on Patreon!
S.L. Armstrong has been writing for as long as she can remember. Art and reading have played a large part in her life since young childhood, but around fourteen, writing became her passion. Voraciously consuming every book in front of her opened up hundreds of worlds in her head, and she soon wanted to create worlds for other people as well. She has a particular fondness for gothic horror, horror, high fantasy, urban fantasy, and romance novels. The authors she turns to time and again are Stephen King, L.J. Smith, V.C. Andrews, R.L. Stine, and Anne Rice, among others. She has no shame in picking up the young adult novels she loved as a child, and she will talk your ear off about grammar and punctuation.
After she married her husband over seventeen years ago, she began to truly delve into the world of writing for public consumption. It was sheer chance that she stumbled on M/M fanfiction, and she's not looked back. Though fanfiction will always have a fond place in her heart, she soon grew tired of playing in other people's sandboxes. When she discovered M/M romance, and how it was now a legitimate branch of romance writing, she knew her course. S.L. plans to release F/F, M/M, M/F, and multiple partner books as she continues her writing career. M/M romance is where her heart lies, no matter what else she may write or read, and it's where she keeps returning to. There is something about two men passionately in love that just makes her heart melt, and she has no intention of giving that up anytime soon.
S.L. Armstrong lives in Florida with her husband, partner, two dogs, and twelve cats. She hates the heat and longs for a northern, snowy climate. She writes with K. Piet on a number of projects, but she also writes her own solitary titles as well.
S.L. Armstrong has been writing for as long as she can remember. Art and reading have played a large part in her life since young childhood, but around fourteen, writing became her passion. Voraciously consuming every book in front of her opened up hundreds of worlds in her head, and she soon wanted to create worlds for other people as well. She has a particular fondness for gothic horror, horror, high fantasy, urban fantasy, and romance novels. The authors she turns to time and again are Stephen King, L.J. Smith, V.C. Andrews, R.L. Stine, and Anne Rice, among others. She has no shame in picking up the young adult novels she loved as a child, and she will talk your ear off about grammar and punctuation.
After she married her husband over seventeen years ago, she began to truly delve into the world of writing for public consumption. It was sheer chance that she stumbled on M/M fanfiction, and she's not looked back. Though fanfiction will always have a fond place in her heart, she soon grew tired of playing in other people's sandboxes. When she discovered M/M romance, and how it was now a legitimate branch of romance writing, she knew her course. S.L. plans to release F/F, M/M, M/F, and multiple partner books as she continues her writing career. M/M romance is where her heart lies, no matter what else she may write or read, and it's where she keeps returning to. There is something about two men passionately in love that just makes her heart melt, and she has no intention of giving that up anytime soon.
S.L. Armstrong lives in Florida with her husband, partner, two dogs, and twelve cats. She hates the heat and longs for a northern, snowy climate. She writes with K. Piet on a number of projects, but she also writes her own solitary titles as well.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 28, 2013
Its Dragons Yay 
, hopefully there will be a few
mixed up with the more
ones lol.
My first Dragon read in this book was Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
I enjoyed this story and liked the way it played out. Tian was a sweet guy and Buwei
Deserved his HEA. My one tiny niggle but that aside an enjoyable story but not the humorous one I kind of expected from this author. 3 stars
My second read was Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
Another exciting story, quite a bit darker than I’ve come to expect from this author.
The Dragon aspect to this one is certainly not the cute fun Dragons I’ve come to love, instead Najlah is a wicked looking dangerous dragon, that even in human form is still vicious.
The story is entertaining, and has the usual mix of mages and magic Megan Derr is so good at writing. There is a love interest between Najlah and Barkus, but I felt it lacked something for me.
There is more detail to the sex than I’m used to reading from Megan Derr, and I wasn’t as comfortable with the way that aspect played out. I guess I prefer my dragons more on the cute that vicious side.
That said I adored the conversations between Najlah and his brother Ajith, the high lights of the story for me lol.
A solid 3 stars
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle
My third read in this book. An unusual and to me unique version of the shifter theme.
This one centres around Adri and Dru, a couple that are desperate to remember each other once Vesti has worked her magic.
Again this was no light hearted tale, but a interesting one, if somewhat sad in places.
Another 3 stars.
My forth read was Teller of Tales By D.K. Jernigan
Can’t say this one really grabbed me. An interesting idea, but never quite filled the gaps for me. Just not my cup of tea.
2 stars
My fith read Weird Magics by E.E.Otterman.
As far as mystery and excitement goes, this story is a winner.
I could of done with a little more detail on the time period. For the most part it felt like a Victorian period, but with talk of coffee shops I’d think of starbucks and that kinda through me off.
I enjoyed seeing Daire and Cyrus get to know each other, even if the romance side of this story was not the main focus.
I admit I was a little disappointed in the Dragon side of this one. A wyrm isn’t the type of Dragon I think of, but it was still a very interesting read.
Overall one of the more interesting and exciting stories so far.
4 stars
My sixth read Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
Started off interesting, if a little confusing, it never really explained the difference between a Dragon and a Dragon shifter, considering Dragons also took on human form. But it soon seemed to follow the typical mate mine theme, but then it started to pick up again. A plot started to develop only to leave off unfinished.
Instead we got a big and unsatisfying sex scene The End.
I can only assume the author plans to or has already set this book up as a series. Sadly that doesn’t help the readers of this book. A very disappointing read.
1 star Would have been more but I feel really cheated by this story.
Seventh read Two in the Bush by E R Karr
Another hard one to rate. While I really loved Ferdie and his childlike thoughts and ramblings, there was just not enough background on David and Ferdie as a couple. Or even on Ferdie’s dragon life.
The magical mystery part was again jumbled and not detailed enough for me to enjoy as much as I could of.
Overall this felt like the middle part of a longer story, with the beginning missed off and the ending rushed and incomplete.
2.5 stars
Overall rating of 3 stars
, hopefully there will be a few
mixed up with the more
ones lol. My first Dragon read in this book was Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
I enjoyed this story and liked the way it played out. Tian was a sweet guy and Buwei
Deserved his HEA. My one tiny niggle but that aside an enjoyable story but not the humorous one I kind of expected from this author. 3 stars
My second read was Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
Another exciting story, quite a bit darker than I’ve come to expect from this author.
The Dragon aspect to this one is certainly not the cute fun Dragons I’ve come to love, instead Najlah is a wicked looking dangerous dragon, that even in human form is still vicious.
The story is entertaining, and has the usual mix of mages and magic Megan Derr is so good at writing. There is a love interest between Najlah and Barkus, but I felt it lacked something for me.
There is more detail to the sex than I’m used to reading from Megan Derr, and I wasn’t as comfortable with the way that aspect played out. I guess I prefer my dragons more on the cute that vicious side.
That said I adored the conversations between Najlah and his brother Ajith, the high lights of the story for me lol.
A solid 3 stars
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle
My third read in this book. An unusual and to me unique version of the shifter theme.
This one centres around Adri and Dru, a couple that are desperate to remember each other once Vesti has worked her magic.
Again this was no light hearted tale, but a interesting one, if somewhat sad in places.
Another 3 stars.
My forth read was Teller of Tales By D.K. Jernigan
Can’t say this one really grabbed me. An interesting idea, but never quite filled the gaps for me. Just not my cup of tea.
2 stars
My fith read Weird Magics by E.E.Otterman.
As far as mystery and excitement goes, this story is a winner.
I could of done with a little more detail on the time period. For the most part it felt like a Victorian period, but with talk of coffee shops I’d think of starbucks and that kinda through me off.
I enjoyed seeing Daire and Cyrus get to know each other, even if the romance side of this story was not the main focus.
I admit I was a little disappointed in the Dragon side of this one. A wyrm isn’t the type of Dragon I think of, but it was still a very interesting read.
Overall one of the more interesting and exciting stories so far.
4 stars
My sixth read Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
Started off interesting, if a little confusing, it never really explained the difference between a Dragon and a Dragon shifter, considering Dragons also took on human form. But it soon seemed to follow the typical mate mine theme, but then it started to pick up again. A plot started to develop only to leave off unfinished.
Instead we got a big and unsatisfying sex scene The End.
I can only assume the author plans to or has already set this book up as a series. Sadly that doesn’t help the readers of this book. A very disappointing read.
1 star Would have been more but I feel really cheated by this story.
Seventh read Two in the Bush by E R Karr
Another hard one to rate. While I really loved Ferdie and his childlike thoughts and ramblings, there was just not enough background on David and Ferdie as a couple. Or even on Ferdie’s dragon life.
The magical mystery part was again jumbled and not detailed enough for me to enjoy as much as I could of.
Overall this felt like the middle part of a longer story, with the beginning missed off and the ending rushed and incomplete.
2.5 stars
Overall rating of 3 stars
May 28, 2013
I bought this anthology not really knowing what I was going into because I only know two of the authors and I wasn't really sure what I was going to get. In saying that however, I was also really dead set on getting it despite that because hey, it's dragons, and I really really love dragons.
After reading it, I had rather mixed feelings. Sure I was mostly disappointed in the stories, however, I still didn't regret buying it because it was rather enjoyable (though my bias for dragon stories is obviously shining through).
Anyway, a story by story rating:
(you may need to refer to the separate story summaries in the overall blurb to understand what I'm saying)
Fugue in Gold and Fire: 3.75 - 4 STARS
I found this to be one of the better stories. The story is based on already established lovers, and although the romance wasn't brilliantly burning by any means, you felt that their love was genuine. The things I liked was the quality writing and the good world building. I was intrigued about the world for the get-go and this sense of fear for the unknown due to the rise of the Vesti Moon was definitely being conveyed. A really intriguing start to the anthology.
Teller of Tales: 1.5 STARS
Quite flat and unlikable characters and insta-love (though not much you can do about that in an anthology). I didn't really like the dragon angle either. I felt that his character only very superficially matched the ancient and powerful nature of a dragon (if they were even going for that angle at all). There wasn't much originality/research shown (depending on whether the author chose to research for create a new angle).
Weird Magics: 2.75 - 3 STARS
Quite a solid story with an interesting story line and well established setting. Personally I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters or any fondness, but I think that's very individual.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre: 2.5 - 275 STARS
Again quite an interesting world with not only Dragons but Dragon Shifters and a long standing feud between the two races. However I felt like the characters were very superficial and the voice and dialogue was a bit contrived.
Two in the Bush: 2.5 STARS
This was a bit weird.. I'm not sure what to say about this, honestly. It was quite interesting I suppose, but I didn't really like the story line or the characters.
Finding the Rain: 3.75 STARS
This was a really sweet and fun read! It was kind of what I expected from the anthology. A bit fluffy, different angle and some smut haha. I'm not quite sure if I'm that sold on the Ancient China setting (I don't know if that is exactly the correct time period), but it's not like anthologies allow for in-depth descriptions and etc. Though actually, there were some really weird moments where I was kind of a bit wary. I'm not sure if this should be spoiler tagged, but basically Buwei started having dreams about this dragon. Explicit dreams. And I was a bit curious whether it'd cross into the realms of supernatural bestiality (or whatever you want to call it).
Oh, this story is by Tam Ames. I feel the need to mention this, because whenever I see this author, I have to link her book alongside with it.
Lukos Heat: 3.5 STARS
Megan Derr's writing was lovely relief. Not that some stories weren't well written, but just that some stories were not. It was quite interesting because her portrayal of dragons was a bit more.. animalistic? I'm not quite sure what to call it, but the perspective and the voice of the main character (the dragon) made me wince at times, not really because of the personality of the character, just the way he saw things. The story itself was quite good, perhaps not as stand-out as the others, but a satisfying one nonetheless.
{Overall} though I did enjoy taking reading these stories and mentally storing them away in the 'Dragons' archive, as an anthology it probably isn't the best. I wouldn't recommend you to buy it because I don't think it's worth it, but if you love dragons like me, I wouldn't deter you either. Oh and I did find some editing mistakes which bugged me, but didn't really detract from the read too much, though I know that many other people will be annoyed.
After reading it, I had rather mixed feelings. Sure I was mostly disappointed in the stories, however, I still didn't regret buying it because it was rather enjoyable (though my bias for dragon stories is obviously shining through).
Anyway, a story by story rating:
(you may need to refer to the separate story summaries in the overall blurb to understand what I'm saying)
Fugue in Gold and Fire: 3.75 - 4 STARS
I found this to be one of the better stories. The story is based on already established lovers, and although the romance wasn't brilliantly burning by any means, you felt that their love was genuine. The things I liked was the quality writing and the good world building. I was intrigued about the world for the get-go and this sense of fear for the unknown due to the rise of the Vesti Moon was definitely being conveyed. A really intriguing start to the anthology.
Teller of Tales: 1.5 STARS
Quite flat and unlikable characters and insta-love (though not much you can do about that in an anthology). I didn't really like the dragon angle either. I felt that his character only very superficially matched the ancient and powerful nature of a dragon (if they were even going for that angle at all). There wasn't much originality/research shown (depending on whether the author chose to research for create a new angle).
Weird Magics: 2.75 - 3 STARS
Quite a solid story with an interesting story line and well established setting. Personally I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters or any fondness, but I think that's very individual.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre: 2.5 - 275 STARS
Again quite an interesting world with not only Dragons but Dragon Shifters and a long standing feud between the two races. However I felt like the characters were very superficial and the voice and dialogue was a bit contrived.
Two in the Bush: 2.5 STARS
This was a bit weird.. I'm not sure what to say about this, honestly. It was quite interesting I suppose, but I didn't really like the story line or the characters.
Finding the Rain: 3.75 STARS
This was a really sweet and fun read! It was kind of what I expected from the anthology. A bit fluffy, different angle and some smut haha. I'm not quite sure if I'm that sold on the Ancient China setting (I don't know if that is exactly the correct time period), but it's not like anthologies allow for in-depth descriptions and etc. Though actually, there were some really weird moments where I was kind of a bit wary. I'm not sure if this should be spoiler tagged, but basically Buwei started having dreams about this dragon. Explicit dreams. And I was a bit curious whether it'd cross into the realms of supernatural bestiality (or whatever you want to call it).
Oh, this story is by Tam Ames. I feel the need to mention this, because whenever I see this author, I have to link her book alongside with it.
Lukos Heat: 3.5 STARS
Megan Derr's writing was lovely relief. Not that some stories weren't well written, but just that some stories were not. It was quite interesting because her portrayal of dragons was a bit more.. animalistic? I'm not quite sure what to call it, but the perspective and the voice of the main character (the dragon) made me wince at times, not really because of the personality of the character, just the way he saw things. The story itself was quite good, perhaps not as stand-out as the others, but a satisfying one nonetheless.
{Overall} though I did enjoy taking reading these stories and mentally storing them away in the 'Dragons' archive, as an anthology it probably isn't the best. I wouldn't recommend you to buy it because I don't think it's worth it, but if you love dragons like me, I wouldn't deter you either. Oh and I did find some editing mistakes which bugged me, but didn't really detract from the read too much, though I know that many other people will be annoyed.
September 30, 2014
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr : 3*
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames : 3,5*
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr : 1,5*
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman : 3*
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose : 2,5*
****
I'm not sure if I'll read the last 2 stories :
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle :
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan :
August 21, 2014
When I was given the opportunity to review an anthology with Dragons as the main focus I was thrilled. As one who loves all things dragon and my favorite genre to read is m/m romance, this seemed like the perfect combination. There are seven stories. I had fun reading them all but a few really stood out.
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To read the full review please go to:
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May 15, 2013
Fugue in Gold and Fire - Avery Vanderlyle 3.75 stars
Teller of Tales - DK Jernigan 3 stars
Weird Magics - EE Ottoman 4 stars
Chanson Commencante de Guerre - Lor Rose 2.5 stars
Two in the Bush - ER Karr 3.5 stars
Finding the Rain - Tam Ames 4 stars
Lukos Heat - Megan Derr 3.5 stars
Teller of Tales - DK Jernigan 3 stars
Weird Magics - EE Ottoman 4 stars
Chanson Commencante de Guerre - Lor Rose 2.5 stars
Two in the Bush - ER Karr 3.5 stars
Finding the Rain - Tam Ames 4 stars
Lukos Heat - Megan Derr 3.5 stars
September 4, 2013
My story
Chanson Commrncante de Guerre
(or Beginning Song of War) is in there! Somewhere. Can't wait to read the others... Who doesn't like dragons?
Read
May 20, 2013My story is Finding the Rain. I'm thrilled to be included with so many amazing authors.
July 27, 2013
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Averly Vanderlyle
Scholar Adri and his lover Dru, a tavernkeeper and an inventor, are preparing for an event that last happened a thousand years ago. When the purple moon Vesti rises, everyone except children and the elderly change shape into animals, real and mythical. This change is permanent unless the person remembers who they are within the beast form they take. Most never do, says the chronicles. When the day comes, what happens to the two men who love each other when one’s real shape is a mythical beast and the other’s is… a man?
We are shown an intricate world preparing to lose a major part of their population, and a city on the verge of almost steampunk discoveries of electricity and other technical inventions, and yet facing a magical, divine event. The culture is fascinating, and the bond between the two heroes is shown with warmth, friendship, and shared humor. Rebuilding a ravaged world and a bond with a dragon are matched in a very effective juxtaposition. We get details of a larger world expanding beyond the confines this story, and that made this a truly enjoyable read for me. Recommended.
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
Peter Harrington is a dragon who has lived as a human among them for centuries. He’s been banished from his own people because he’s gay. Now, once learning about a new modern dragon stories in the making, Peter starts his own story about dragons. Doing so, he attracts the attention of Thomas Dougherty, an editor. Once they meet, Peter realizes Tom is a virgin, therefore attracting Peter’s dragon instincts to mate. And Tom begins to sense there’s more to the story then he’s being led to believe. But knowing the bond is for life, Peter fights the urge—until Tom takes matters into his own hands.
This takes place in modern Las Vegas. There’s an instant attraction between Tom and Peter. Tom likes his job as an editor, always on the lookout for a new creative tale, but not having much of a personal life. Peter lives in an upscale apartment, a rich and cultured individual with some old-fashioned notions. In short, they are very different, distinct characters who come through clearly. Peter goes through a lot of introspection and Tom has doubts, but you know these two belong together. A good story which I quite liked, told in both 1st and 3rd person.
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Daire is a wyrm dragon, a powerful cold seas-preferring creature who has had his magic stolen from him by a blood curse from an unknown alchemist. Daire has come to New York to search for the alchemist, but without his powers he’s as weak as a human. To heal him comes Cyras, an alchemist who has been treating supernatural beings for a long time, and is just learning that these creatures are being killed and drained of their blood by mysterious foes. With Cyras’s help, Daire learns of a method to rekindle his magic—and the hunt is on.
The industrial revolution is well on its way here, and new technologies work alongside magic. The supernatural beings are a well-known secret. What we have here is a tight-spaced action adventure that ends in a magic-and-gun-fight. Cyras is a sweet positive characters, idealistic and smart, where Daire is cynical and always expecting the worst. Yet, these two bond together, though initially mostly hostile. I liked the way this story fused together different genres, from fantasy and paranormal to steampunk and action tales. I quite liked this.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
For hundreds of years, a war has raged between dragons and dragon shifters. At first glance this seems like the sillies thing to fight over, but there you have it. Rayvak is an ancient dragon, a hermit-like loner who no longer likes to reminisce his battle days and now lives far from his own kind in a cabin in the woods. One day he comes across a hunted, badly wounded young man, Stormy, who also happens to be a dragon shifter—and Rayvak’s mate. This is strictly forbidden, but the mating call is strong. But what happens when five dragons come in search of their quarry?
There’s a lot of ponderings and inner musings in this one. But the reasons for the war are not give, and the ending is abrupt, without much closure. Rayvak is protective and strong, while Stormy is smaller, shyer, and filled with resentment over dragons who have abused him through violence and rape. Having a dragon for a mate is not to his liking, and he tries to flee. But Rayvak is possessive too. They do find a rapport of sorts, but I never got to know these men very well, let alone the situation they find themselves in. Everything is only alluded to, nothing told or shown. Frustrating. And the present tense didn’t really help matters. Still, an okay story.
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
David, a PI, and his boyfriend of six months, Ferdie, a dragon without much magic as his heartstone is broken, are supposed to be having a fun camping trip in a national forest. But then they awake bruised and battered with little memory of what happened only to find their tent, their car, and all other campers and rangers around gone. And when giant flying beings land from the skies to punish the humans who are keeping a dragon prisoner everything goes from bad to worse. Ferdie cannot change to his true shape to convince no one is being held captive, so for David he makes a big sacrifice—without David’s approval.
Told in first person from David’s point of view, we’re shown a telepathic man who has come to know and love Ferdie, the dragon who due to youthful recklessness cannot shift to dragon form very often. This is written like a stream of consciousness. It’s funny. And the giant flying guardians are scary and very effective. One wing stroke, and it’s adios muchachos. The caring that these two men feel for each other is shown with little details and humor, and I liked their interaction. I liked this story.
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
Buwei is a lonely farmer taking care of his mother and grandmother during a draught that’s lasted for years. He is tasked by the Governor of the province to find Lord Shenlong, the dragon who controls rain, and give him tribute to end the draught. Having no choice, Buwei leaves. At the temple high up in the mountains it rains all the time. Lord Shenlong is a no show, but a beautiful young man, Tian, bids him welcome and asks him to tell him stories. But their time together is limited. When Buwei returns home, the Governor has gone back on his word to take care of Buwei’s family while he’s gone, and they are dead. But a leader should know better than to defy the morals of highly ethical dragons.
This was by far my favorite story in this anthology. Reading like a fairytale, this story shows us a poor man who is by nature good and honest, and he knows many stories. Tian’s attraction baffles him, but through little touches, kisses and closeness they are drawn together. It was wonderful to read about another culture where dragons are seen as wise, benevolent, highly ethical, and in many ways more civilized than humans. Lord Shenlong is no beast, but a god in his own right. I loved the culture, the plot, the lessons we’re given, justice, love, and happiness all rolled into one. Highly recommended!
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
Najlah has dragon features even when he is in human form, and due to his fangs and tongue he cannot speak. He is part of a royal shifter corps on the trail of an attempted assassin of the king. Najlah’s brother was injured in the attack. Now the corps have entered the Shide Mountain range, far too cold for Najlah. They are met with the inhabitants of the wilderness, the Lukos pack, or wolf shifters. Their leader, Barkus, takes an immediate interest in Najlah who hasn’t sough company of any kind because his dragon plays too rough for any potential lover. Barkus doesn’t seem to have a problem with that. Their adversary, however, seems to posses powerful magic, sending blizzards, golems, and wild mgic after them. But when they find the assassin, however, they’re left with more questions than answers.
This one was a great read. Irritating at the end when things cut off so darn abruptly, but a great story that reads like a prologue to a set of tales. Everything feels detailed and thought out, a fully fledged world. We get hints of this larger world, Najlah IS a dragon with dragon behavior and facets—more than any other dragon in this anthology—and he and Barkus find new and exciting ways to communicate since Najlah cannot speak. This is a wonderful conclusion to the anthology, but I do hope the writer gives us more of this world later on. I want to know what happens next!
Scholar Adri and his lover Dru, a tavernkeeper and an inventor, are preparing for an event that last happened a thousand years ago. When the purple moon Vesti rises, everyone except children and the elderly change shape into animals, real and mythical. This change is permanent unless the person remembers who they are within the beast form they take. Most never do, says the chronicles. When the day comes, what happens to the two men who love each other when one’s real shape is a mythical beast and the other’s is… a man?
We are shown an intricate world preparing to lose a major part of their population, and a city on the verge of almost steampunk discoveries of electricity and other technical inventions, and yet facing a magical, divine event. The culture is fascinating, and the bond between the two heroes is shown with warmth, friendship, and shared humor. Rebuilding a ravaged world and a bond with a dragon are matched in a very effective juxtaposition. We get details of a larger world expanding beyond the confines this story, and that made this a truly enjoyable read for me. Recommended.
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
Peter Harrington is a dragon who has lived as a human among them for centuries. He’s been banished from his own people because he’s gay. Now, once learning about a new modern dragon stories in the making, Peter starts his own story about dragons. Doing so, he attracts the attention of Thomas Dougherty, an editor. Once they meet, Peter realizes Tom is a virgin, therefore attracting Peter’s dragon instincts to mate. And Tom begins to sense there’s more to the story then he’s being led to believe. But knowing the bond is for life, Peter fights the urge—until Tom takes matters into his own hands.
This takes place in modern Las Vegas. There’s an instant attraction between Tom and Peter. Tom likes his job as an editor, always on the lookout for a new creative tale, but not having much of a personal life. Peter lives in an upscale apartment, a rich and cultured individual with some old-fashioned notions. In short, they are very different, distinct characters who come through clearly. Peter goes through a lot of introspection and Tom has doubts, but you know these two belong together. A good story which I quite liked, told in both 1st and 3rd person.
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Daire is a wyrm dragon, a powerful cold seas-preferring creature who has had his magic stolen from him by a blood curse from an unknown alchemist. Daire has come to New York to search for the alchemist, but without his powers he’s as weak as a human. To heal him comes Cyras, an alchemist who has been treating supernatural beings for a long time, and is just learning that these creatures are being killed and drained of their blood by mysterious foes. With Cyras’s help, Daire learns of a method to rekindle his magic—and the hunt is on.
The industrial revolution is well on its way here, and new technologies work alongside magic. The supernatural beings are a well-known secret. What we have here is a tight-spaced action adventure that ends in a magic-and-gun-fight. Cyras is a sweet positive characters, idealistic and smart, where Daire is cynical and always expecting the worst. Yet, these two bond together, though initially mostly hostile. I liked the way this story fused together different genres, from fantasy and paranormal to steampunk and action tales. I quite liked this.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
For hundreds of years, a war has raged between dragons and dragon shifters. At first glance this seems like the sillies thing to fight over, but there you have it. Rayvak is an ancient dragon, a hermit-like loner who no longer likes to reminisce his battle days and now lives far from his own kind in a cabin in the woods. One day he comes across a hunted, badly wounded young man, Stormy, who also happens to be a dragon shifter—and Rayvak’s mate. This is strictly forbidden, but the mating call is strong. But what happens when five dragons come in search of their quarry?
There’s a lot of ponderings and inner musings in this one. But the reasons for the war are not give, and the ending is abrupt, without much closure. Rayvak is protective and strong, while Stormy is smaller, shyer, and filled with resentment over dragons who have abused him through violence and rape. Having a dragon for a mate is not to his liking, and he tries to flee. But Rayvak is possessive too. They do find a rapport of sorts, but I never got to know these men very well, let alone the situation they find themselves in. Everything is only alluded to, nothing told or shown. Frustrating. And the present tense didn’t really help matters. Still, an okay story.
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
David, a PI, and his boyfriend of six months, Ferdie, a dragon without much magic as his heartstone is broken, are supposed to be having a fun camping trip in a national forest. But then they awake bruised and battered with little memory of what happened only to find their tent, their car, and all other campers and rangers around gone. And when giant flying beings land from the skies to punish the humans who are keeping a dragon prisoner everything goes from bad to worse. Ferdie cannot change to his true shape to convince no one is being held captive, so for David he makes a big sacrifice—without David’s approval.
Told in first person from David’s point of view, we’re shown a telepathic man who has come to know and love Ferdie, the dragon who due to youthful recklessness cannot shift to dragon form very often. This is written like a stream of consciousness. It’s funny. And the giant flying guardians are scary and very effective. One wing stroke, and it’s adios muchachos. The caring that these two men feel for each other is shown with little details and humor, and I liked their interaction. I liked this story.
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
Buwei is a lonely farmer taking care of his mother and grandmother during a draught that’s lasted for years. He is tasked by the Governor of the province to find Lord Shenlong, the dragon who controls rain, and give him tribute to end the draught. Having no choice, Buwei leaves. At the temple high up in the mountains it rains all the time. Lord Shenlong is a no show, but a beautiful young man, Tian, bids him welcome and asks him to tell him stories. But their time together is limited. When Buwei returns home, the Governor has gone back on his word to take care of Buwei’s family while he’s gone, and they are dead. But a leader should know better than to defy the morals of highly ethical dragons.
This was by far my favorite story in this anthology. Reading like a fairytale, this story shows us a poor man who is by nature good and honest, and he knows many stories. Tian’s attraction baffles him, but through little touches, kisses and closeness they are drawn together. It was wonderful to read about another culture where dragons are seen as wise, benevolent, highly ethical, and in many ways more civilized than humans. Lord Shenlong is no beast, but a god in his own right. I loved the culture, the plot, the lessons we’re given, justice, love, and happiness all rolled into one. Highly recommended!
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
Najlah has dragon features even when he is in human form, and due to his fangs and tongue he cannot speak. He is part of a royal shifter corps on the trail of an attempted assassin of the king. Najlah’s brother was injured in the attack. Now the corps have entered the Shide Mountain range, far too cold for Najlah. They are met with the inhabitants of the wilderness, the Lukos pack, or wolf shifters. Their leader, Barkus, takes an immediate interest in Najlah who hasn’t sough company of any kind because his dragon plays too rough for any potential lover. Barkus doesn’t seem to have a problem with that. Their adversary, however, seems to posses powerful magic, sending blizzards, golems, and wild mgic after them. But when they find the assassin, however, they’re left with more questions than answers.
This one was a great read. Irritating at the end when things cut off so darn abruptly, but a great story that reads like a prologue to a set of tales. Everything feels detailed and thought out, a fully fledged world. We get hints of this larger world, Najlah IS a dragon with dragon behavior and facets—more than any other dragon in this anthology—and he and Barkus find new and exciting ways to communicate since Najlah cannot speak. This is a wonderful conclusion to the anthology, but I do hope the writer gives us more of this world later on. I want to know what happens next!
March 18, 2017
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle 12 March 2017, 5 stars
Maybe I shouldn't have been as surprised as I was, but this was brilliant! The idea was excellent, a planet of people mysteriously forced into animal forms when a particular comet returns. But it was just wonderfully beautifully written. Enough that I plan to immediately go see what else this author has written!
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan 13 March 2017, 3 stars
Intriguing idea. A dragon who's been cast out for being gay writes a fantasy novel using his dragon culture and then falls for the editor he submits the story to. I think part of the reason I liked this so much was I felt like they were geeking out over books about dragons just like I do. Otherwise the bizarre pov switches (1st person from Peter, and then 3rd person from Tommy) would have frustrated me much more.
Favorite Quote:
"Get over it, Tommy-boy, because dragons are just a dream."
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman 14 March 2017, 5 stars
This was spectacular! A dragon shifter and a professor of alchemy in the most fantastically atmospheric Steampunk New York. Fantastic magic, delightful mythology, excellent secondary characters, stunningly perfect gritty setting. This was just thoroughly entertaining to read.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose 15 March 2017, 1 star
So much of this makes absolutely no sense. He drove an hour to buy two bags worth of groceries. And what grocery store doesn't have a parking lot? Why is he having to walk a block and use a crosswalk, other than the author needed an excuse to have him make internal comments on "human culture."
The worst was calling the two groups "dragons" and "dragon shifters." Both groups can shift into dragon and human forms, the differences are more based on the size of their dragon, the energy it takes them to shift, and how long they live. If they'd been called different tribes of dragons or different races, I think I would have been able to relax and get into the story more. Both groups are technically dragon shifters, so basing the whole story and millennia of war on that name made me not able to give this any more than 1 star.
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr 15 March 2017, 3 stars
I love these characters! A telepathic private detective and his dragon shifter lover/assistant. So fun! The story itself, though, was just bizarre. I'd love to get to see these characters again in a different story.
Some Favorite Quotes:
It took me a little longer to figure out what he really was--and even longer than that to believe it. Some days, I still don't.
a shot to save in the mental photo album, a memory I never wanted to forget.
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames 16 March 2017, 3 stars
This had a lovely, dreamy, Chinese-fairy-tale feel to it. Sadder than I like my fairy tales to be, though.
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr 3 July 2015, 5 stars
I thought this was just brilliantly done! Najlah was a spectacular character, and the descriptions of both of his forms, his homeland, dragon societal structure, all of it was spectacularly unique and wonderfully great fun.
My absolute favorite: Najlah's complete inability to speak any human language in either form, yet he was still able to communicate perfectly well. Very cleverly done!
I also just adored Najlah and Barkus together, they complemented each other brilliantly.
Such a fun story, in a wonderfully unique world. I'd love to get to come back and read more set here!
Some Favorite Quotes:
It was nice not being feared.
"I think I preferred it when they thought us demons and we were allowed to eat them"
Maybe I shouldn't have been as surprised as I was, but this was brilliant! The idea was excellent, a planet of people mysteriously forced into animal forms when a particular comet returns. But it was just wonderfully beautifully written. Enough that I plan to immediately go see what else this author has written!
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan 13 March 2017, 3 stars
Intriguing idea. A dragon who's been cast out for being gay writes a fantasy novel using his dragon culture and then falls for the editor he submits the story to. I think part of the reason I liked this so much was I felt like they were geeking out over books about dragons just like I do. Otherwise the bizarre pov switches (1st person from Peter, and then 3rd person from Tommy) would have frustrated me much more.
Favorite Quote:
"Get over it, Tommy-boy, because dragons are just a dream."
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman 14 March 2017, 5 stars
This was spectacular! A dragon shifter and a professor of alchemy in the most fantastically atmospheric Steampunk New York. Fantastic magic, delightful mythology, excellent secondary characters, stunningly perfect gritty setting. This was just thoroughly entertaining to read.
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose 15 March 2017, 1 star
So much of this makes absolutely no sense. He drove an hour to buy two bags worth of groceries. And what grocery store doesn't have a parking lot? Why is he having to walk a block and use a crosswalk, other than the author needed an excuse to have him make internal comments on "human culture."
The worst was calling the two groups "dragons" and "dragon shifters." Both groups can shift into dragon and human forms, the differences are more based on the size of their dragon, the energy it takes them to shift, and how long they live. If they'd been called different tribes of dragons or different races, I think I would have been able to relax and get into the story more. Both groups are technically dragon shifters, so basing the whole story and millennia of war on that name made me not able to give this any more than 1 star.
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr 15 March 2017, 3 stars
I love these characters! A telepathic private detective and his dragon shifter lover/assistant. So fun! The story itself, though, was just bizarre. I'd love to get to see these characters again in a different story.
Some Favorite Quotes:
It took me a little longer to figure out what he really was--and even longer than that to believe it. Some days, I still don't.
a shot to save in the mental photo album, a memory I never wanted to forget.
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames 16 March 2017, 3 stars
This had a lovely, dreamy, Chinese-fairy-tale feel to it. Sadder than I like my fairy tales to be, though.
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr 3 July 2015, 5 stars
I thought this was just brilliantly done! Najlah was a spectacular character, and the descriptions of both of his forms, his homeland, dragon societal structure, all of it was spectacularly unique and wonderfully great fun.
My absolute favorite: Najlah's complete inability to speak any human language in either form, yet he was still able to communicate perfectly well. Very cleverly done!
I also just adored Najlah and Barkus together, they complemented each other brilliantly.
Such a fun story, in a wonderfully unique world. I'd love to get to come back and read more set here!
Some Favorite Quotes:
It was nice not being feared.
"I think I preferred it when they thought us demons and we were allowed to eat them"
March 25, 2018
Solo me han gustado un par de historias, y confieso que la última ni me la he leído
August 4, 2016
A story by story review on Dracones published by Storm Moon Press and edited by S.L. Armstrong;
Fugue in Gold by Avery Vanderlyle
Quite liked this story. The characters were likeable and I was eager to see how the main protagonists relationship would turn out. The setting and plot had the trappings of a really good fantasy and was a world I was engaged in and happy to read and learn about. The overall story did have a couple moments where it felt a tad predictable (though given how this is all about dragons... yeah, to be expected) and at least one moment where my suspension of disbelief was taken away, but there were some surprising nuances that really worked for me.
4 out of 5
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
No easy way to say this but... I hated this story. It was ridiculous wish fulfilment from beginning to end. The characters were bland, only going on about how much they wanted the other with little to no substance regarding themselves. And the switch in narratives from first person for one character's perspective to third person for another's, did not work for me. How this story wound up as the second in the anthology I do not know, especially since the dragon aspect of things felt so tacked on that I wonder if this story hadn't begun as maybe a vampire tale instead.
1 out of 5
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Great! This was a great story with a really interesting world that I want to revisit and learn more about. The characters here were fantastic to the point that I would love to know what happens next for them.
5 out of 5
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
Not too sure about this one. At times there is way too much in the way of info dumping and then feeling as though this might have been a semi-polished role-play/interactive writing exchange. That latter observation may have been that it was written in present tense, which was rather jarring to get used to. Has a very predictable scenario, and I just didn't understand the differences and conflict between the two factions featured, while also finding that some of the details presented came off as confused. It does have some decent and numerous sex scenes though.
2 out of 5
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
While not generally a fan of first person storytelling, this was still a really good story. My one complaint though is that I can't help but feel that this was a continuation of another story, one that sets up some pretty major events which are only alluded to here, but still have overarching consequences. Surprisingly, this was the least smutty story... actually, there was nothing in the way of smut, but I won't hold that against it.
4 out of 5
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
While a very cliche scenario (I think by the title alone you can guess the premise), I really liked how this story played out. It was beautifully written and the sex scene was so very tender and lovely.
4 out of 5
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
An interesting bit of world building, I think this story could have worked better as a full length novel rather than a short story. Not that there was anything wrong with it, just that it felt bigger than what could be shared in only a few pages and even ends feeling like there was more adventure and intrigue to be had.
3 out of 5
Overall this was a pretty decent anthology, though I have to admit to being a tad disappointed. I know I shouldn't be; that given the type of anthology this was, of course all the dragons would be shifters of some sort. But anyway, that's my thing.
Not sure if it was because I had the ebook/kindle release but there were times when I felt that there was spacing between scenes missing. So I would be reading and suddenly the characters were waking up or it was the next day, but there was no break in the text. Also surprised that there were quite a few spelling/work errors, as if the book could have used just one more read through before being sent out.
Fugue in Gold by Avery Vanderlyle
Quite liked this story. The characters were likeable and I was eager to see how the main protagonists relationship would turn out. The setting and plot had the trappings of a really good fantasy and was a world I was engaged in and happy to read and learn about. The overall story did have a couple moments where it felt a tad predictable (though given how this is all about dragons... yeah, to be expected) and at least one moment where my suspension of disbelief was taken away, but there were some surprising nuances that really worked for me.
4 out of 5
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
No easy way to say this but... I hated this story. It was ridiculous wish fulfilment from beginning to end. The characters were bland, only going on about how much they wanted the other with little to no substance regarding themselves. And the switch in narratives from first person for one character's perspective to third person for another's, did not work for me. How this story wound up as the second in the anthology I do not know, especially since the dragon aspect of things felt so tacked on that I wonder if this story hadn't begun as maybe a vampire tale instead.
1 out of 5
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Great! This was a great story with a really interesting world that I want to revisit and learn more about. The characters here were fantastic to the point that I would love to know what happens next for them.
5 out of 5
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
Not too sure about this one. At times there is way too much in the way of info dumping and then feeling as though this might have been a semi-polished role-play/interactive writing exchange. That latter observation may have been that it was written in present tense, which was rather jarring to get used to. Has a very predictable scenario, and I just didn't understand the differences and conflict between the two factions featured, while also finding that some of the details presented came off as confused. It does have some decent and numerous sex scenes though.
2 out of 5
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
While not generally a fan of first person storytelling, this was still a really good story. My one complaint though is that I can't help but feel that this was a continuation of another story, one that sets up some pretty major events which are only alluded to here, but still have overarching consequences. Surprisingly, this was the least smutty story... actually, there was nothing in the way of smut, but I won't hold that against it.
4 out of 5
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
While a very cliche scenario (I think by the title alone you can guess the premise), I really liked how this story played out. It was beautifully written and the sex scene was so very tender and lovely.
4 out of 5
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr
An interesting bit of world building, I think this story could have worked better as a full length novel rather than a short story. Not that there was anything wrong with it, just that it felt bigger than what could be shared in only a few pages and even ends feeling like there was more adventure and intrigue to be had.
3 out of 5
Overall this was a pretty decent anthology, though I have to admit to being a tad disappointed. I know I shouldn't be; that given the type of anthology this was, of course all the dragons would be shifters of some sort. But anyway, that's my thing.
Not sure if it was because I had the ebook/kindle release but there were times when I felt that there was spacing between scenes missing. So I would be reading and suddenly the characters were waking up or it was the next day, but there was no break in the text. Also surprised that there were quite a few spelling/work errors, as if the book could have used just one more read through before being sent out.
January 11, 2021
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle
A very imaginative story with a dark take on humans being forced to take their true animal forms. All but the young and old are forced to change and they can only hope to survive, even if they do they may not remember being human and turn back. Their loved ones can only pray.
27.04.2020(?), 1h 4min, 3,5+ stars, I will look into other works by this author
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
A short sexy read about a dragon writer and his virgin editor.
27.04.2020(?), 0h 36min, 3,5- stars, very enjoyable
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Urban fantasy with non-humans, alchemists and a government opressing non-humans and most forms of magic. We have a dragon with a hate for alchemists looking for someone and a soft-hearted alchemist helping non-humans in his free time. And forget the blurb, at no point are they suspicious of each other.
05.07.2020, 1h 8min, 3,5 stars, would be very interesting as a full novel
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
This story had so much potential. Even though it felt rushed, and there was much that was either not explained (well) or very confusing, it got me interested. It seemed like a draft meant to spark interest for a novel or a series, one I would gladly read.
05.07.2020, 0h 42min, 3 stars, would be very interesting extended into a series
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
In this story dragons are godlike beings, just that our dragon is really young and a bit of a handful. So when he drags his telepathic boyfriend on a camping trip, of course it has to go wrong. The characters are amusing and sweet and want me to read more, the humour is also well done. Fells like a side story to a novel or series.
05.07.2020, 0h 57min, 3,5+ stars, sadly this seems to be the only story by this author
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
This is a short story as it should be. The story fits the length perfectly and doesn't feel like it wanted to be more. A poor farmer, his family and village suffering from starvation, is sent to the great dragon lord with offerings to ask for blessed rain to end the drought. A fairytale-esque story (which of course means some cruelty and violence).
06.07.2020, 0h 48min, 4 stars
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr ♥
A lovely fantasy story about two violent non-humans, made me interested in the world this takes place in. I love it when the non-humans do not think or behave too much like a human.
06.07.2020, 0h 43min, 4 stars, I already love this author, I read verything by her
A very imaginative story with a dark take on humans being forced to take their true animal forms. All but the young and old are forced to change and they can only hope to survive, even if they do they may not remember being human and turn back. Their loved ones can only pray.
27.04.2020(?), 1h 4min, 3,5+ stars, I will look into other works by this author
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan
A short sexy read about a dragon writer and his virgin editor.
27.04.2020(?), 0h 36min, 3,5- stars, very enjoyable
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman
Urban fantasy with non-humans, alchemists and a government opressing non-humans and most forms of magic. We have a dragon with a hate for alchemists looking for someone and a soft-hearted alchemist helping non-humans in his free time. And forget the blurb, at no point are they suspicious of each other.
05.07.2020, 1h 8min, 3,5 stars, would be very interesting as a full novel
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose
This story had so much potential. Even though it felt rushed, and there was much that was either not explained (well) or very confusing, it got me interested. It seemed like a draft meant to spark interest for a novel or a series, one I would gladly read.
05.07.2020, 0h 42min, 3 stars, would be very interesting extended into a series
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr
In this story dragons are godlike beings, just that our dragon is really young and a bit of a handful. So when he drags his telepathic boyfriend on a camping trip, of course it has to go wrong. The characters are amusing and sweet and want me to read more, the humour is also well done. Fells like a side story to a novel or series.
05.07.2020, 0h 57min, 3,5+ stars, sadly this seems to be the only story by this author
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
This is a short story as it should be. The story fits the length perfectly and doesn't feel like it wanted to be more. A poor farmer, his family and village suffering from starvation, is sent to the great dragon lord with offerings to ask for blessed rain to end the drought. A fairytale-esque story (which of course means some cruelty and violence).
06.07.2020, 0h 48min, 4 stars
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr ♥
A lovely fantasy story about two violent non-humans, made me interested in the world this takes place in. I love it when the non-humans do not think or behave too much like a human.
06.07.2020, 0h 43min, 4 stars, I already love this author, I read verything by her
September 8, 2014
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance****
3.75 overall
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle – I really liked the idea behind this story and enjoyed the execution as well. We got just the right amount of information for the story length and I didn’t feel like anything was missing when it ended. 4.25*
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan – This was an interesting little story. I liked how the author delivered the mythology for dragons in this world. However it ended quite abruptly. 3*
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman – I quite enjoyed this quasi Victorian tale with alchemists, magic, and non-human folk. Daire is an interesting character as is Cyras. The mystery was good for the limited space given in a short story. I would like to spend some more time with these characters in this world. 4*
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose – I don’t usually like present tense narration, but it worked here. The sex was hot but I would have liked a little more to this story, there were too many loose ends left. It was just enough different that it didn’t quite fall into the “shifter, mate, mine, porn-without-plot” trope. 3*
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr – This was a supernatural tale that felt like an interlude from a larger series. No sex, but the story was entertaining and humorous as well as spooky. 3.5*
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames – This story was by turns sweet and sad. I found the narration flowed a little awkwardly but enjoyed the setting and the folk tale feel to it. The story was able to be told in its entirety. 3.25*
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr – Another unique look at dragons set in a fantasy world. I really like the world and the characters and would love to read more about these two. 4.5*
3.75 overall
Fugue in Gold and Fire by Avery Vanderlyle – I really liked the idea behind this story and enjoyed the execution as well. We got just the right amount of information for the story length and I didn’t feel like anything was missing when it ended. 4.25*
Teller of Tales by D.K. Jernigan – This was an interesting little story. I liked how the author delivered the mythology for dragons in this world. However it ended quite abruptly. 3*
Weird Magics by E.E. Ottoman – I quite enjoyed this quasi Victorian tale with alchemists, magic, and non-human folk. Daire is an interesting character as is Cyras. The mystery was good for the limited space given in a short story. I would like to spend some more time with these characters in this world. 4*
Chanson Commencante de Guerre by Lor Rose – I don’t usually like present tense narration, but it worked here. The sex was hot but I would have liked a little more to this story, there were too many loose ends left. It was just enough different that it didn’t quite fall into the “shifter, mate, mine, porn-without-plot” trope. 3*
Two in the Bush by E.R. Karr – This was a supernatural tale that felt like an interlude from a larger series. No sex, but the story was entertaining and humorous as well as spooky. 3.5*
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames – This story was by turns sweet and sad. I found the narration flowed a little awkwardly but enjoyed the setting and the folk tale feel to it. The story was able to be told in its entirety. 3.25*
Lukos Heat by Megan Derr – Another unique look at dragons set in a fantasy world. I really like the world and the characters and would love to read more about these two. 4.5*
June 6, 2013
4 Stars
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
This is a jewel of a story. Buwei is a poor farmer living with his mother and grandmother in a small village. The village has been under a drought for three years and the people are starving. He is summoned one night by the governor to bring an offering to the Dragon Lord Shenlong, that he may bless the village and bring the rains. Before leaving, Buwei ensures a promise from the governor that he will take care of Buwei’s family as his own until Buwei returns. From this point we journey with Buwei in his quest to the palace of The Dragon Lord. The beautiful descriptions of the journey, his arrival at the temple and the events that follow are vivid and lyrical. This has the feel of a classic fable. I look forward to reading more from this author. ~ rated 5 stars.
Read Deb's full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
Finding the Rain by Tam Ames
This is a jewel of a story. Buwei is a poor farmer living with his mother and grandmother in a small village. The village has been under a drought for three years and the people are starving. He is summoned one night by the governor to bring an offering to the Dragon Lord Shenlong, that he may bless the village and bring the rains. Before leaving, Buwei ensures a promise from the governor that he will take care of Buwei’s family as his own until Buwei returns. From this point we journey with Buwei in his quest to the palace of The Dragon Lord. The beautiful descriptions of the journey, his arrival at the temple and the events that follow are vivid and lyrical. This has the feel of a classic fable. I look forward to reading more from this author. ~ rated 5 stars.
Read Deb's full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
May 25, 2013
4 stars overall, my reading progress has reviews of the individual stories
my favorites were:
Finding the Rain (4 stars)
Fugue in gold and fire (3.5 stars)
Lukos Heat (4 stars)
Teller of Tales (3.5 stars)
Weird Magics (3 stars)
The other two were my least favorites as they felt either incomplete or slightly less than satisfying to read. Perhaps they weren't meant to be novellas and as a result the end product of squishing them to short stories. was not up to snuff.
my favorites were:
Finding the Rain (4 stars)
Fugue in gold and fire (3.5 stars)
Lukos Heat (4 stars)
Teller of Tales (3.5 stars)
Weird Magics (3 stars)
The other two were my least favorites as they felt either incomplete or slightly less than satisfying to read. Perhaps they weren't meant to be novellas and as a result the end product of squishing them to short stories. was not up to snuff.
May 25, 2013
Great short dragon themed stories. Some where more promising than others but overall really well done and fun to read. There was some stories I wished that were longer since it had a great setup and brought up issues that could have been easily expanded into full length novels. There is one in particular in the anthology that I thought was a bit oddly (err...well uniquely) executed. I felt as if I was reading the authors thought instead of the characters interpretations.
May 30, 2013
3.75 gah! dragons, gotta love it!
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