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Dragon Fire
Some choices are hard to live with.
But some choices will kill you.
When seventeen-year-old Anna first meets Rakan in her hometown north of the Arctic Circle, she is attracted to his pulsing energy. Unaware that he is a shapeshifting dragon, Anna is drawn into a murderous cycle of revenge that pits Rakan and his clan against her best friend June.
Torn between his forbidden relationship with Anna, punishable by death, and restoring his family’s honor by killing June, Rakan must decide what is right. And what is worth living – or dying – for.
But some choices will kill you.
When seventeen-year-old Anna first meets Rakan in her hometown north of the Arctic Circle, she is attracted to his pulsing energy. Unaware that he is a shapeshifting dragon, Anna is drawn into a murderous cycle of revenge that pits Rakan and his clan against her best friend June.
Torn between his forbidden relationship with Anna, punishable by death, and restoring his family’s honor by killing June, Rakan must decide what is right. And what is worth living – or dying – for.
344 pages, Paperback
First published August 5, 2013
2 people are currently reading
1461 people want to read
About the author
Dina von Lowenkraft
1 book65 followersBorn in the US, Dina von Lowenkraft has lived on 4 continents, worked as a graphic artist for television and as a consultant in the fashion industry. Somewhere between New York and Paris she picked up an MBA and a black belt – and still thinks the two are connected. Dina is currently the Regional Advisor for SCBWI Belgium, where she lives with her husband, two children and three horses.
Dina loves to create intricate worlds filled with conflict and passion. She builds her own myths while exploring issues of belonging, racism and the search for truth... after all, how can you find true love if you don’t know who you are and what you believe in? Dina’s key to developing characters is to figure out what they would be willing to die for. And then pushing them to that limit.
DRAGON FIRE is a finalist in the YA Fantasy category for the 2014 Readers' Favorite International Book Award Contest. Winners will be selected in September.
Dina loves to create intricate worlds filled with conflict and passion. She builds her own myths while exploring issues of belonging, racism and the search for truth... after all, how can you find true love if you don’t know who you are and what you believe in? Dina’s key to developing characters is to figure out what they would be willing to die for. And then pushing them to that limit.
DRAGON FIRE is a finalist in the YA Fantasy category for the 2014 Readers' Favorite International Book Award Contest. Winners will be selected in September.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 27, 2013
Dina von Lowenkraft has crafted a truly epic adventure of dragons, humans, and beings of the light. There's a lot going on here, so grab your favorite beverage and try to keep up.
Rakan is a dragon. Dvara is his half sister. Anna is a human. June, Anna's friend, is suspected of being the ancient dragon that killed Dvara's father. Rakan's mother (the widowed dragon) vowed revenge. Raken's father is harboring a secret elicited by poison. There's this ruling council of dragons who are more than what they seem and have this convoluted hidden agenda.
Dragons have a Rok. It's like their soul. Giving your cairn leader (your clan) your Rok allows them to know everything about you. All of your secrets. Humans don't have this. A dragon can only mate with another dragon (or so they're told), but mating doesn't always happen for love. There are shields, triggers, and trails. Colors. Sights. Sounds. Scents. The entire book feels like a patchwork quilt that's being assembled in front of you. The colors and design doesn't make any sense at first. There's no pattern. But then all of a sudden there's a piece of the quilt that's stitched into place and you understand. You're looking out at a brilliant fjord at sunrise.
I loved the relationship between Anna and Rakan. Anna is human, but she's not a normal human. She can sense energy and the touch of another being's mind on hers. Rakan is drawn to her, at first because she's June's friend and he's supposed to get close to her, but then because he forms a true bond with her and starts to fall in love with her. But despite the fact that Rakan has been alive for much longer than Anna, in dragon terms, he's still a teenager, like her. So there's all the requisite angst over their love that teens will appreciate and adults will remember. You'll cheer at parts, grumble at others, and be pretty happy in the end.
I have only two minor criticisms of this book. Just two (and one could actually be considered a plus, depending on what you're looking for). First, I wish there'd been a glossary. It took me a bit to understand all of the terminology. Rok's, kais, cairns... I got it, after about a quarter of the way through, but a glossary in the beginning could have helped.
Second, the politics are quite detailed and convoluted. Even now, I'm not 100% sure what the hidden agenda was or how everything truly meshed. Given the crafting of the novel, I believe this is my own failing, rather than the author's and those who enjoy detailed political schemes with their fantasy will be thrilled with how the author has spun her tale.
The imagery is beautiful, the love story between Rakan and Anna is deeply satisfying, and the political machinations are truly staggering. This is an epic love story, full of death, pain, happiness, and revenge. Dragons die. Dragons are hurt. Dragons fall in love. Beings of the light are killed and injured. No one is truly safe. There's some mild sexual content, including one scene that speaks of an implied threat of rape, but nothing you'd be upset at your high school reader reading.
I look forward to the next book in the series. Because the last thing I'll say is that when the book ends, not much is resolved. (But hint hint...Anna and Rakan do admit their love for each other. I'd apologize for the spoiler, but nothing irritates me more than a cliffhanger ending of book with a strong romance where the couple hates each other in the end.)
Rakan is a dragon. Dvara is his half sister. Anna is a human. June, Anna's friend, is suspected of being the ancient dragon that killed Dvara's father. Rakan's mother (the widowed dragon) vowed revenge. Raken's father is harboring a secret elicited by poison. There's this ruling council of dragons who are more than what they seem and have this convoluted hidden agenda.
Dragons have a Rok. It's like their soul. Giving your cairn leader (your clan) your Rok allows them to know everything about you. All of your secrets. Humans don't have this. A dragon can only mate with another dragon (or so they're told), but mating doesn't always happen for love. There are shields, triggers, and trails. Colors. Sights. Sounds. Scents. The entire book feels like a patchwork quilt that's being assembled in front of you. The colors and design doesn't make any sense at first. There's no pattern. But then all of a sudden there's a piece of the quilt that's stitched into place and you understand. You're looking out at a brilliant fjord at sunrise.
I loved the relationship between Anna and Rakan. Anna is human, but she's not a normal human. She can sense energy and the touch of another being's mind on hers. Rakan is drawn to her, at first because she's June's friend and he's supposed to get close to her, but then because he forms a true bond with her and starts to fall in love with her. But despite the fact that Rakan has been alive for much longer than Anna, in dragon terms, he's still a teenager, like her. So there's all the requisite angst over their love that teens will appreciate and adults will remember. You'll cheer at parts, grumble at others, and be pretty happy in the end.
I have only two minor criticisms of this book. Just two (and one could actually be considered a plus, depending on what you're looking for). First, I wish there'd been a glossary. It took me a bit to understand all of the terminology. Rok's, kais, cairns... I got it, after about a quarter of the way through, but a glossary in the beginning could have helped.
Second, the politics are quite detailed and convoluted. Even now, I'm not 100% sure what the hidden agenda was or how everything truly meshed. Given the crafting of the novel, I believe this is my own failing, rather than the author's and those who enjoy detailed political schemes with their fantasy will be thrilled with how the author has spun her tale.
The imagery is beautiful, the love story between Rakan and Anna is deeply satisfying, and the political machinations are truly staggering. This is an epic love story, full of death, pain, happiness, and revenge. Dragons die. Dragons are hurt. Dragons fall in love. Beings of the light are killed and injured. No one is truly safe. There's some mild sexual content, including one scene that speaks of an implied threat of rape, but nothing you'd be upset at your high school reader reading.
I look forward to the next book in the series. Because the last thing I'll say is that when the book ends, not much is resolved. (But hint hint...Anna and Rakan do admit their love for each other. I'd apologize for the spoiler, but nothing irritates me more than a cliffhanger ending of book with a strong romance where the couple hates each other in the end.)
January 19, 2014
*I was given a copy by the author for an honest review.*
What I loved most about this book is actually what I hated most. Isn't that conflicting?
The thing is this is such a new approach to dragon mythology that you can't identify with it, and yet you crave to know more. Ms. Lowenkraft has managed to make up a whole new world, with new laws of physics and a plethora of intricate plots and subplots. At times it was difficult to follow all the intrigue and that's what was confusing. The names didn't help, I got so messed up in them that I didn't know who was whom anymore.
But what's important is that none of that matters. This book was and excellent read. It grew so much together with it characters. We practically followed the ascension of Rakan and the evolving of Anna. Their love was so beautiful to watch.
At times the actions of the characters felt surreal. I was a bit taken aback by the dragon's rituals and what elaborate they were. I would have loved to have them more thoroughly explained because they were pretty hard to grasp. But I guess there will be squeals and then I will have a more clear overview of the whole story.
So many twists and turns, so much court machinations with Rakan's mother. I swear to God that woman gave me the creeps. Somebody has to end her miserable existence. She is only there to gain power and subjugate through any means necessary and of course I hated her.
I had so much sympathy for Rakan because he was considered puppy and he wasn't told anything, he had to find out for himself many things. And many just wanted to manipulate him and use him. I am so glad he turned out to be a great hero, and I believe he will be an even greater leader.
All the side characters were awesome and I would love to know more about them in future books.
Anna was a likeable heroine, she just went through some nasty phases in her young life and been submerged in so much unknown and paranormal drama that her sometimes erratic behavior it's understandable.
I have a feeling that there is more to know about Anna's father and mother. Their situation rang some bells and I think there are some secrets to be learned there.
This was a great read and I can't wait to read more about this unique world that kind of fascinates me.
What I loved most about this book is actually what I hated most. Isn't that conflicting?
The thing is this is such a new approach to dragon mythology that you can't identify with it, and yet you crave to know more. Ms. Lowenkraft has managed to make up a whole new world, with new laws of physics and a plethora of intricate plots and subplots. At times it was difficult to follow all the intrigue and that's what was confusing. The names didn't help, I got so messed up in them that I didn't know who was whom anymore.
But what's important is that none of that matters. This book was and excellent read. It grew so much together with it characters. We practically followed the ascension of Rakan and the evolving of Anna. Their love was so beautiful to watch.
At times the actions of the characters felt surreal. I was a bit taken aback by the dragon's rituals and what elaborate they were. I would have loved to have them more thoroughly explained because they were pretty hard to grasp. But I guess there will be squeals and then I will have a more clear overview of the whole story.
So many twists and turns, so much court machinations with Rakan's mother. I swear to God that woman gave me the creeps. Somebody has to end her miserable existence. She is only there to gain power and subjugate through any means necessary and of course I hated her.
I had so much sympathy for Rakan because he was considered puppy and he wasn't told anything, he had to find out for himself many things. And many just wanted to manipulate him and use him. I am so glad he turned out to be a great hero, and I believe he will be an even greater leader.
All the side characters were awesome and I would love to know more about them in future books.
Anna was a likeable heroine, she just went through some nasty phases in her young life and been submerged in so much unknown and paranormal drama that her sometimes erratic behavior it's understandable.
I have a feeling that there is more to know about Anna's father and mother. Their situation rang some bells and I think there are some secrets to be learned there.
This was a great read and I can't wait to read more about this unique world that kind of fascinates me.
December 13, 2013
I loved this book. There was not enough of it! I wanted more. I want more. I really look forward to reading a second one. I hope this turns into a long series.
The characters are wonderfully written. The world that the dragons come from is well developed with a good history. The story is engaging and really held my interest. I could not put this book down. Well, my phone on which I was reading it, anyway.
I feel that there is a lot more to learn about Anna and her father. I want to know what happened. This book only skimmed over it and I am sure it is going to come up again in the next book. I can't wait to see how Anna and Rakan's relationship progresses. The chemistry between these two is practically touchable.
I am trying so hard not to just start talking about the book as though everyone has already read it. I don't want to give anything big away about it. Gosh I would love to see this turned into a movie. I can visualize it all so well from the author's descriptions that I almost feel like I was watching it instead of reading it.
I totally recommend this book to anyone that loves fantasy stories, paranormal type romances, urban fantasy, or just a really good story. This is a fantastic YA book, as there are no really explicit scenes that would make me uncomfortable if my teen read it. It even shows teens being responsible with intimacy and being very controlled about their physical needs.
Disclosure: I received the ebook free for reviewing purposes. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
January 18, 2014
Dragon Fire by Dina Von Lowenkkraft is a 2013 Twilight Times Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A brief synopsis:
"Some choices are hard to live with. But some choices will kill you."
Anna is attracted to Rakan unaware that he is a shapeshifting dragon. She doesn't know that Rakan and is clan are out to kill her best friend, June.
Rakan isn't supposed to be involved with Anna and of course he is conflicted about his duty to restore his family's honor, which would mean killing June.
So, why is June the target of Rakan and his clan? It appears they believe she is the ancient dragon that killed Rakan's half sister's father.
This YA fantasy is not your usual dragonshifter novel. In my humble opinion this book would fall more into the high fantasy or even the epic fantasy category. Don't be fooled by the YA label either. This book would appeal to anyone that enjoys fantasy novels.
This author is very talented and knows how to weave a complex tale. I foresee more in this series and predict that it will be very successful if this first book is any indication.
My only issue was that I did have a hard time keeping some of the words straight. By that I mean that perhaps a glossary would have helped me out with the meaning of the words that were made up for use in this story.
Other than that this is a wonderful start for this author. Overall I give this one an A.
A brief synopsis:
"Some choices are hard to live with. But some choices will kill you."
Anna is attracted to Rakan unaware that he is a shapeshifting dragon. She doesn't know that Rakan and is clan are out to kill her best friend, June.
Rakan isn't supposed to be involved with Anna and of course he is conflicted about his duty to restore his family's honor, which would mean killing June.
So, why is June the target of Rakan and his clan? It appears they believe she is the ancient dragon that killed Rakan's half sister's father.
This YA fantasy is not your usual dragonshifter novel. In my humble opinion this book would fall more into the high fantasy or even the epic fantasy category. Don't be fooled by the YA label either. This book would appeal to anyone that enjoys fantasy novels.
This author is very talented and knows how to weave a complex tale. I foresee more in this series and predict that it will be very successful if this first book is any indication.
My only issue was that I did have a hard time keeping some of the words straight. By that I mean that perhaps a glossary would have helped me out with the meaning of the words that were made up for use in this story.
Other than that this is a wonderful start for this author. Overall I give this one an A.
November 24, 2013
Magic. Dragons. Unexpected romance. FIVE STARS!!!!!
I just finished reading Dragon Fire by Dina Von Lowenkraft and I recommend this book to EVERYONE! I loved the magical world she created for her dragons! And I never thought of traveling to Norway until now:) Rakan and Anna were my favorite characters. Their budding romance sizzled with unexpected innocence. I can't wait to read what Dina writes next... perhaps Dragon Fire 2? I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
I just finished reading Dragon Fire by Dina Von Lowenkraft and I recommend this book to EVERYONE! I loved the magical world she created for her dragons! And I never thought of traveling to Norway until now:) Rakan and Anna were my favorite characters. Their budding romance sizzled with unexpected innocence. I can't wait to read what Dina writes next... perhaps Dragon Fire 2? I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
February 2, 2014
I got copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms. von Lowenkraft!
I Am Sher-locked and I Am Sher-locked hard. I've been lasting after his voice for a while. But I haven't known true love until I went to see The Hobbit. Dragons have no right to be sexy, NONE!!! And yet there he was slithering on golden coins and promising damnation with that sinister voice. And yet there I was ready to tear my clothes off and have a little dragon babies named Benedict. I repeat, dragons have no right to be smexy!! But rights or no, now I have a new obsession with them. So, seeing this book on my groups R4R was like a sign.
I wasn't sure what to expect. The summary sounded thrilling but I have been fooled before. That me tell you, I'm so glad I took the risk. This book is full of love, friendship, intrigue and amazing characters. I loved it! I would have totally given it a higher rating if not for the few issues I had with it. First and for most was new terms and new names. They were kind of thrown my way without much explanation and I had to figure out their meaning on my own. Which at times proved to be difficult, because they were lot at once. But this book has so much intrigue and originality it could supply earth for years. Seriously, it sunk its dragon claws in me from the first page and didn't let me go until the last page and even then I didn't want it to let go. The other main problem for me was Anna, our MC. Mostly I have a problem with MCs for being annoying and getting on my nerves. Luckily, Anna didn't suffered from stupidness but her acceptance for it all was little unbelievable. I mean, if my best friend told me she can put a shield on my necklace to protect me and my boyfriend could mind touch me. I would be screaming top of my lungs until someone taught me how to cast spells or enthrall people. She was pretty calm about it and some could write it off as a naivety but for me it was tad bit ridiculous. Nobody can accept people turning into dragons without a good old freak out.
But what I loved about this book was the story itself. Before starting it, I chatted with the author and when she said that big part of the story is romance, I groaned. Because so often authors can't draw the line between those two and story gets lost in the romance. It's frustrating. To my surprise Dina had no problem with that. Because this story was build on love. And most amazing thing was that it wasn't only about romance but friendship. Dina's dragons value each other more than any other creature I have read about. There need to easy each others pain or help even a foe, was endearing. Evil was literally defeated (for now at least) by friendship and caring for each other. The other thing I found completely brilliant was the schemes. I have watched so many crime shows it's hard to get something past me that I can't figure out and yet the writer managed to keep me guessing till the end. I couldn't figure out anyones secrets, unless they wanted me to. Brilliant.
The characters were fascinating. Even secondary characters were interesting and build beautifully. Rakan is totally swoon worthy. His love for Anna was heart warming, his caring for his sister fierce and his friendship with June inspiring. Rakan was deceived, lied to and poisoned and he still didn't loose his inner beauty or take it out on the world. But my most favorite character was Dvara. I grinned every time she called Rakan "idiot". Even now I'm grinning like an idiot myself, just from remembering. I loved how much she wanted to protect her people, to save future. And she almost sacrificed her life for it.
Needless to say I can't wait for the second book and I would recommend Dragon Fire to everyone. Even if you don't fancy dragons, believe me that won't be a problem.
Happy Reading!
I Am Sher-locked and I Am Sher-locked hard. I've been lasting after his voice for a while. But I haven't known true love until I went to see The Hobbit. Dragons have no right to be sexy, NONE!!! And yet there he was slithering on golden coins and promising damnation with that sinister voice. And yet there I was ready to tear my clothes off and have a little dragon babies named Benedict. I repeat, dragons have no right to be smexy!! But rights or no, now I have a new obsession with them. So, seeing this book on my groups R4R was like a sign.
I wasn't sure what to expect. The summary sounded thrilling but I have been fooled before. That me tell you, I'm so glad I took the risk. This book is full of love, friendship, intrigue and amazing characters. I loved it! I would have totally given it a higher rating if not for the few issues I had with it. First and for most was new terms and new names. They were kind of thrown my way without much explanation and I had to figure out their meaning on my own. Which at times proved to be difficult, because they were lot at once. But this book has so much intrigue and originality it could supply earth for years. Seriously, it sunk its dragon claws in me from the first page and didn't let me go until the last page and even then I didn't want it to let go. The other main problem for me was Anna, our MC. Mostly I have a problem with MCs for being annoying and getting on my nerves. Luckily, Anna didn't suffered from stupidness but her acceptance for it all was little unbelievable. I mean, if my best friend told me she can put a shield on my necklace to protect me and my boyfriend could mind touch me. I would be screaming top of my lungs until someone taught me how to cast spells or enthrall people. She was pretty calm about it and some could write it off as a naivety but for me it was tad bit ridiculous. Nobody can accept people turning into dragons without a good old freak out.
But what I loved about this book was the story itself. Before starting it, I chatted with the author and when she said that big part of the story is romance, I groaned. Because so often authors can't draw the line between those two and story gets lost in the romance. It's frustrating. To my surprise Dina had no problem with that. Because this story was build on love. And most amazing thing was that it wasn't only about romance but friendship. Dina's dragons value each other more than any other creature I have read about. There need to easy each others pain or help even a foe, was endearing. Evil was literally defeated (for now at least) by friendship and caring for each other. The other thing I found completely brilliant was the schemes. I have watched so many crime shows it's hard to get something past me that I can't figure out and yet the writer managed to keep me guessing till the end. I couldn't figure out anyones secrets, unless they wanted me to. Brilliant.
The characters were fascinating. Even secondary characters were interesting and build beautifully. Rakan is totally swoon worthy. His love for Anna was heart warming, his caring for his sister fierce and his friendship with June inspiring. Rakan was deceived, lied to and poisoned and he still didn't loose his inner beauty or take it out on the world. But my most favorite character was Dvara. I grinned every time she called Rakan "idiot". Even now I'm grinning like an idiot myself, just from remembering. I loved how much she wanted to protect her people, to save future. And she almost sacrificed her life for it.
Needless to say I can't wait for the second book and I would recommend Dragon Fire to everyone. Even if you don't fancy dragons, believe me that won't be a problem.
Happy Reading!
January 25, 2016
This book amazed me. It's different and that's an understatement. Okay so starting with the cover. It's the first thing I saw and first impressions count. The girl is beautiful. The fire dragon in the background tells you that it's about dragons. I just love the cover, as you can see. It's very eye catching. And that's what you want in a cover. Dina and I are in a crit group together at Savvy Authors. So i got to read a little bit of this story earlier than most, back in the writing stage and even then i knew it was going to be good. But I am going to do a honest review, because I believe in being truthful.
Appeal
So when i look at Appeal, I want to find something that is different. And Dina, the author nailed it on the head. There are quite a few dragon stories out there, but this has a different flavour to it than most but still retains the dragon feel. It works. I don't read that many dragon books but i loved how there were different dragon types and the lore that you could only be one. I also liked the unique world she built. So yes i think there is a tone of Appeal and fresh factor.
Characters
Anna knows or rather senses that things around her are different. So when she is let into the secret world a bit more, she doesn't run scared but embraces it. Especially when she discovers that humans live with Dragons and Elythia. She can feel the dragon energy from Rakan. They are drawn to each other and make an awesome couple. As the story unfolds Anna learns more and more about the dragons, Elythia and wants it like to be with a dragon. And also what part her friend June plays in it all.
Rakan is struggling. He's conflicted. His mother wants him to seduce Anna to learn from her memories but he refuses. His half-sister Dvara is not always upfront with him. She has motives that he can't understand. But no matter what he loves her and wants to protect her. And he is trying to stay true to the dragon code. He's a believable character. Very realistic because we as humans struggle with staying true to others and staying true to ourselves.
The secondary characters have their own story entwined with the main plot. They make up the plot and help you understand the other characters motives. And awesome way to show character development from another's eyes.
World Building
The world is strong but there was bits at the beginning that was fully on and confusing. I understood more by the middle and towards the end, but right at the beginning i was a bit overwhelmed with who was what, what they did etc. But otherwise i think the world building was effective. I loved how Dina, the author entwined humans, dragons and the Elythia. It was well done.
Overall
Overall this book is a must read. It's fresh, new and different. Captivating and strong. I loved reading every second of it and can't wait for the next books
Appeal
So when i look at Appeal, I want to find something that is different. And Dina, the author nailed it on the head. There are quite a few dragon stories out there, but this has a different flavour to it than most but still retains the dragon feel. It works. I don't read that many dragon books but i loved how there were different dragon types and the lore that you could only be one. I also liked the unique world she built. So yes i think there is a tone of Appeal and fresh factor.
Characters
Anna knows or rather senses that things around her are different. So when she is let into the secret world a bit more, she doesn't run scared but embraces it. Especially when she discovers that humans live with Dragons and Elythia. She can feel the dragon energy from Rakan. They are drawn to each other and make an awesome couple. As the story unfolds Anna learns more and more about the dragons, Elythia and wants it like to be with a dragon. And also what part her friend June plays in it all.
Rakan is struggling. He's conflicted. His mother wants him to seduce Anna to learn from her memories but he refuses. His half-sister Dvara is not always upfront with him. She has motives that he can't understand. But no matter what he loves her and wants to protect her. And he is trying to stay true to the dragon code. He's a believable character. Very realistic because we as humans struggle with staying true to others and staying true to ourselves.
The secondary characters have their own story entwined with the main plot. They make up the plot and help you understand the other characters motives. And awesome way to show character development from another's eyes.
World Building
The world is strong but there was bits at the beginning that was fully on and confusing. I understood more by the middle and towards the end, but right at the beginning i was a bit overwhelmed with who was what, what they did etc. But otherwise i think the world building was effective. I loved how Dina, the author entwined humans, dragons and the Elythia. It was well done.
Overall
Overall this book is a must read. It's fresh, new and different. Captivating and strong. I loved reading every second of it and can't wait for the next books
July 23, 2016
Dragon Fire is a unique book about dragons and their interactions with humans. Anna, a human, meets Rakan, a dragon in human form who is on a quest to destroy a long-time enemy of his mother’s.
Set above the Arctic Circle in Tromso, Norway and the wild steppes of Tibet, allow for some beautiful and uncommon visual scenic descriptions. Rich in descriptive langage, Dragon Fire is a beautiful book to visualize in the mind’s eye.
The dragons are not originally from earth, but from a red planet, of which there are only fragments left. They dragons have not procreated in many years and want to begin populating the earth, but the leader of the dragons, Rakan’s mother Yarlung will not let them do so until their ancient enemy, Jing Mei is destroyed once and for all. Rakan’s mission is to prove that June is Jeng Mai, and then to destroy her. The problem? Rakan is attracted to Anna. June is Anna’s best friend. Not only that, but dragon-human relationships are forbidden.
Strangely, at least some humans have some of the same abilities that dragons have – things like the mind-touch. Rakan discovers many secrets that he did not know had been kept from him. In fact, there is more to many of the characters than we find out about by the end of the book.
There were a number of interesting twists and turns in the plot in this novel that were quite unexpected. I liked the form in which they occurred as they brought a new dimension into the themes within the book.
Some of the themes within the book include racism, blood feuds, loyalty and betrayal as well as family relationships.
I found this to be quite a rich and complex novel and to be honest, sometimes I had trouble keeping everything straight. I was highly entertained by Dragon Fire and thought that it was very well written. Ms. Von Lowenkraft’s story crafting ability is superb or she would not have been able to carry off such a complex work.
There were a few things that were left unclear to me still at the end of the novel. One of those things was why Anna was marked by a stone on her palm in the first place. I didn’t really find any reason for that. Maybe we’ll find a reason in a sequel?
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I would read it again just because it is so complex. I gave Dragon Fire 5 stars out of 5.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
Set above the Arctic Circle in Tromso, Norway and the wild steppes of Tibet, allow for some beautiful and uncommon visual scenic descriptions. Rich in descriptive langage, Dragon Fire is a beautiful book to visualize in the mind’s eye.
The dragons are not originally from earth, but from a red planet, of which there are only fragments left. They dragons have not procreated in many years and want to begin populating the earth, but the leader of the dragons, Rakan’s mother Yarlung will not let them do so until their ancient enemy, Jing Mei is destroyed once and for all. Rakan’s mission is to prove that June is Jeng Mai, and then to destroy her. The problem? Rakan is attracted to Anna. June is Anna’s best friend. Not only that, but dragon-human relationships are forbidden.
Strangely, at least some humans have some of the same abilities that dragons have – things like the mind-touch. Rakan discovers many secrets that he did not know had been kept from him. In fact, there is more to many of the characters than we find out about by the end of the book.
There were a number of interesting twists and turns in the plot in this novel that were quite unexpected. I liked the form in which they occurred as they brought a new dimension into the themes within the book.
Some of the themes within the book include racism, blood feuds, loyalty and betrayal as well as family relationships.
I found this to be quite a rich and complex novel and to be honest, sometimes I had trouble keeping everything straight. I was highly entertained by Dragon Fire and thought that it was very well written. Ms. Von Lowenkraft’s story crafting ability is superb or she would not have been able to carry off such a complex work.
There were a few things that were left unclear to me still at the end of the novel. One of those things was why Anna was marked by a stone on her palm in the first place. I didn’t really find any reason for that. Maybe we’ll find a reason in a sequel?
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I would read it again just because it is so complex. I gave Dragon Fire 5 stars out of 5.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
January 7, 2014
I was drawn into this book by the cover and its premise. I was allured by the idea of shape-shifting dragons. I wanted to know how these fantasy like creatures played a role in our present world. As I began to read this book, I realized that it was an interesting challenge.
The story itself was intriguing but it was very confusing. The reader was immediately thrust into this world without knowing what the terminology was or what was going on. I felt like I missed a whole book because I thrust into the middle of a story. What frustrated me was that things were slowly explained but further on with the book. I kept getting confused with the unknown words, the multiple names of the characters (a dragon's name was different from its human name), and what was going on. I had to read a few chapters over just to get the gist.
However, what I did understand was quite amazing. There was great detail on the characters and the situations. I could vividly imagine the strife between the dragons and I just loved how they were able to morph between their human forms.
I came to learn a few things as well: how it took place in Tromson, Norway, and how the characters were into handball. Tromson was an actual place where the sun didn't shine but a few times a year. This immediately set the tone of the story on how dark the world was for the characters. Then there was handball. I didn't realize that it was a whole competition game and it didn't involve a wall. I had to look it up to see what the author was talking about and I found this game to be extremely fun. This kind of competition game helped me understand the characters more.
Talking about characters, I found them to be well written. Anna was a strong girl, Rakan was a caring and loyal dragon/human, and Dvara was feisty. Unfortunately, as well as these characters were written, I didn't find myself connecting to any of them. The closest one I came to care about was Dvara. I found this to be quite strange on my part.
To sum up, this was an alluring story but was quite challenging for me. I was confused the majority of the time and I didn't feel connected to the characters. I felt frustrated towards the end of the book. However, I did enjoy reading about the unique take on shape-shifters and I quite enjoyed learning about actual things such as Tromson and handball.
The story itself was intriguing but it was very confusing. The reader was immediately thrust into this world without knowing what the terminology was or what was going on. I felt like I missed a whole book because I thrust into the middle of a story. What frustrated me was that things were slowly explained but further on with the book. I kept getting confused with the unknown words, the multiple names of the characters (a dragon's name was different from its human name), and what was going on. I had to read a few chapters over just to get the gist.
However, what I did understand was quite amazing. There was great detail on the characters and the situations. I could vividly imagine the strife between the dragons and I just loved how they were able to morph between their human forms.
I came to learn a few things as well: how it took place in Tromson, Norway, and how the characters were into handball. Tromson was an actual place where the sun didn't shine but a few times a year. This immediately set the tone of the story on how dark the world was for the characters. Then there was handball. I didn't realize that it was a whole competition game and it didn't involve a wall. I had to look it up to see what the author was talking about and I found this game to be extremely fun. This kind of competition game helped me understand the characters more.
Talking about characters, I found them to be well written. Anna was a strong girl, Rakan was a caring and loyal dragon/human, and Dvara was feisty. Unfortunately, as well as these characters were written, I didn't find myself connecting to any of them. The closest one I came to care about was Dvara. I found this to be quite strange on my part.
To sum up, this was an alluring story but was quite challenging for me. I was confused the majority of the time and I didn't feel connected to the characters. I felt frustrated towards the end of the book. However, I did enjoy reading about the unique take on shape-shifters and I quite enjoyed learning about actual things such as Tromson and handball.
September 4, 2013
Set in the mysterious, alluring Arctic, Dragon Fire is a mesmerizing debut novel about a girl torn between the shape-shifting dragon she loves and the best friend she must stay loyal to.
When Rakan is sent to Tromso high school by his mother in order to restore their family’s honor and destroy their enemy dragon Jing Mei, he never thought his attraction to Anna, a human, would complicate matters. But, for one thing, Jing Mei — aka June — is none other than Anna’s best friend, and to make things worse, Rakan’s mother expects him to seduce and deceive Anna to get information.
In fact, she expects him to stop at nothing and to stay loyal to the dragon code, which includes disregarding humans and using them as pawns. Yet, something different about Anna touches a deep core within him, and even though loving a human is punishable by death, he can’t stop.
When Anna first sees Rakan, she immediately senses the strange animal-like energy emanating from him. He seems to like her, but his mood swings leave her hurt and frustrated. What is going on between him and her best friend June? Do they share a past? If yes, is it a romantic one? What, in fact, does Rakan want from Anna? Does he really care about her, or is he only using her for his own ends?
Dina Von Lowenkraft’s world-building is rich, original, and fascinating. The setting is vividly laid out, transporting the reader into a genuinely different world. There are also an array of intriguing, interesting characters, such as Rakan’s wilful half-sister Dvara, and Anna’s predator-like soon-to-be-stepfather Ulf.
The prose is beautifully clean and the dialogue sparkles. Filled with intrigue, romantic tension, and sensual imagery, this is a must-read for fans of dragon stories and young adult paranormal!
When Rakan is sent to Tromso high school by his mother in order to restore their family’s honor and destroy their enemy dragon Jing Mei, he never thought his attraction to Anna, a human, would complicate matters. But, for one thing, Jing Mei — aka June — is none other than Anna’s best friend, and to make things worse, Rakan’s mother expects him to seduce and deceive Anna to get information.
In fact, she expects him to stop at nothing and to stay loyal to the dragon code, which includes disregarding humans and using them as pawns. Yet, something different about Anna touches a deep core within him, and even though loving a human is punishable by death, he can’t stop.
When Anna first sees Rakan, she immediately senses the strange animal-like energy emanating from him. He seems to like her, but his mood swings leave her hurt and frustrated. What is going on between him and her best friend June? Do they share a past? If yes, is it a romantic one? What, in fact, does Rakan want from Anna? Does he really care about her, or is he only using her for his own ends?
Dina Von Lowenkraft’s world-building is rich, original, and fascinating. The setting is vividly laid out, transporting the reader into a genuinely different world. There are also an array of intriguing, interesting characters, such as Rakan’s wilful half-sister Dvara, and Anna’s predator-like soon-to-be-stepfather Ulf.
The prose is beautifully clean and the dialogue sparkles. Filled with intrigue, romantic tension, and sensual imagery, this is a must-read for fans of dragon stories and young adult paranormal!
January 24, 2014
Wow, this is an amazing book! Dragon Fire is s fast, intense read that will leave you longing for more.
In an effort to avenge their family, dragons Rakan and Dvara set off to find a dragon said to be hiding in the form of a human girl, June. What they found, however, was something no one could ever suspect. Rakan falls in love with Anna, June's best friend, and must choose between what his heart knows is right and what his family believes is best.
Rakan and Anna have a somewhat tumultuous relationship, where Anna constantly doubts Rakan's true feelings for her since he keeps pulling away to try and protect her. Every time Rakan would leave, I couldn't help my own heart from breaking along with Anna's, knowing Rakan's true place was beside her, even if they are a different species. (Why else would she bear his mark?) Finally, Rakan realizes who he was destined to be, but almost too late as it might be his last night.
I was so engrossed in this story, trying to discover all the secrets everyone held and the true identities of all the characters. It seemed like everyone had ulterior motives, and in the end, the "bad guy" isn't who I thought it would be. The growth and developments of the characters is truly impressive, and kept my pages turning like a high speed chase. I found myself switching sides continuously and the mixture of emotions invoked in me left me wanting more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy or the paranormal genre. You will not be disappointed!
In an effort to avenge their family, dragons Rakan and Dvara set off to find a dragon said to be hiding in the form of a human girl, June. What they found, however, was something no one could ever suspect. Rakan falls in love with Anna, June's best friend, and must choose between what his heart knows is right and what his family believes is best.
Rakan and Anna have a somewhat tumultuous relationship, where Anna constantly doubts Rakan's true feelings for her since he keeps pulling away to try and protect her. Every time Rakan would leave, I couldn't help my own heart from breaking along with Anna's, knowing Rakan's true place was beside her, even if they are a different species. (Why else would she bear his mark?) Finally, Rakan realizes who he was destined to be, but almost too late as it might be his last night.
I was so engrossed in this story, trying to discover all the secrets everyone held and the true identities of all the characters. It seemed like everyone had ulterior motives, and in the end, the "bad guy" isn't who I thought it would be. The growth and developments of the characters is truly impressive, and kept my pages turning like a high speed chase. I found myself switching sides continuously and the mixture of emotions invoked in me left me wanting more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy or the paranormal genre. You will not be disappointed!
October 6, 2013
I won this book through a Goodreads First Reads giveaway.
I am so glad that I won this book. I thought it was thoroughly enjoyable and Von Lowenkraft presented a unique new view of dragons. The setting for the book was also very unique. I've read many books, but never one that takes place in north Norway in the fjords of Tromso. This beautiful setting definitely adds an interesting and beautiful element to the story. Von Lowenkraft's description of this area was magical and she managed to transport me to the area.
The plot of the story was thrilling and suspenseful. A dragon, Rakan and his sister Dvara are sent to north Norway to find and kill another dragon named Palliaq. Paliaq happens to be friends with Anna, who Rakan falls in love with. Rakan becomes torn between duty to his family and what he believes is right and his love for Anna. Von Lowenkraft is able to artfully convey Rakans inner conflicts, developing him into a strong main character that you can't help but fall in love with.
The main issue I had with the story was some of the wording. Many new words specific to the story (when describing or talking about the dragons) are included from the very beginning and led to some confusion. However, They eventually clear themselves up, but it makes it hard to read at first.
Overall, this was a great debut novel by author Dina von Lowenfrakft. I look forward to a sequal.
I am so glad that I won this book. I thought it was thoroughly enjoyable and Von Lowenkraft presented a unique new view of dragons. The setting for the book was also very unique. I've read many books, but never one that takes place in north Norway in the fjords of Tromso. This beautiful setting definitely adds an interesting and beautiful element to the story. Von Lowenkraft's description of this area was magical and she managed to transport me to the area.
The plot of the story was thrilling and suspenseful. A dragon, Rakan and his sister Dvara are sent to north Norway to find and kill another dragon named Palliaq. Paliaq happens to be friends with Anna, who Rakan falls in love with. Rakan becomes torn between duty to his family and what he believes is right and his love for Anna. Von Lowenkraft is able to artfully convey Rakans inner conflicts, developing him into a strong main character that you can't help but fall in love with.
The main issue I had with the story was some of the wording. Many new words specific to the story (when describing or talking about the dragons) are included from the very beginning and led to some confusion. However, They eventually clear themselves up, but it makes it hard to read at first.
Overall, this was a great debut novel by author Dina von Lowenfrakft. I look forward to a sequal.
February 7, 2014
I struggled at first to get into this book. I found it so far removed from anything I have read about dragons in the past, that I had trouble with the concept. However, Dina Von Lowenkraft has built such an intricate magical world that it was difficult not to get sucked in.
Anna is a lovely character with a gentle nature that does not stop her from being a teenager and Rakan is the handsome, mysterious boy any girl would fall for. His integrity shows him to be far more worthy of Anna's affection than many of their peers. However, their peers are all interesting characters and help to breathe life into this world.
I found the multiple names difficult to keep up with for a while, but once I was immersed into the Dragon Fire universe, the names made sense. The rituals and rules surrounding the dragons were complex and again a little difficult to follow at first. Such a new take on the dragon world was bound to give most readers pause, but the skill with which this story is unfurled left me with a sense that I had read something truly original and interesting.
Open your mind and you will enjoy this new dragon world. This is a love story, a thriller and a fantastic read!
Anna is a lovely character with a gentle nature that does not stop her from being a teenager and Rakan is the handsome, mysterious boy any girl would fall for. His integrity shows him to be far more worthy of Anna's affection than many of their peers. However, their peers are all interesting characters and help to breathe life into this world.
I found the multiple names difficult to keep up with for a while, but once I was immersed into the Dragon Fire universe, the names made sense. The rituals and rules surrounding the dragons were complex and again a little difficult to follow at first. Such a new take on the dragon world was bound to give most readers pause, but the skill with which this story is unfurled left me with a sense that I had read something truly original and interesting.
Open your mind and you will enjoy this new dragon world. This is a love story, a thriller and a fantastic read!
August 28, 2013
This is not just another Girl and Her Dragon story (although, I certainly could use a few more of those). Von Lowenkraft creates a fresh, compelling dragon lore involving a young romance set in intense and exotic locations.
The fjords of Tromso, Norway and the barren steppes of western Tibet would be interesting enough without the deep cast of well-rounded secondary characters to ground our lovers, the “ordinary human” Anna and the young dragon Rakan, in the domestic reality of teenage life.
There is a richness to this book beyond the typical YA fantasy genre. It explores the clash of honor due to family and Cairn (clan) against Rakan’s curiosity and attraction to Anna, her conflicted desires to love and protect her mother from the attention of a predatory boyfriend, and the shifting alliances among Anna and Rakan’s band of high school friends, some of whom may be more than they seem.
My only concern is that the book clearly sets up a sequel, but I don’t see any dates for that release.
The fjords of Tromso, Norway and the barren steppes of western Tibet would be interesting enough without the deep cast of well-rounded secondary characters to ground our lovers, the “ordinary human” Anna and the young dragon Rakan, in the domestic reality of teenage life.
There is a richness to this book beyond the typical YA fantasy genre. It explores the clash of honor due to family and Cairn (clan) against Rakan’s curiosity and attraction to Anna, her conflicted desires to love and protect her mother from the attention of a predatory boyfriend, and the shifting alliances among Anna and Rakan’s band of high school friends, some of whom may be more than they seem.
My only concern is that the book clearly sets up a sequel, but I don’t see any dates for that release.
November 1, 2013
Dragon Fire pulled me in right away because of its exotic location - Tromso, in the far north of Norway. I looked it up on Wikipedia and my first reaction was "Why would anyone want to live there?" I hate the short daylight times of winter, and in Tromso there are months without a sunrise. Turned out that was an important plot point.
I like stories that are set in real-world places, and though I've never been to Tromso, it's easy to tell the author has spent a lot of time there. Her descriptions are detailed but never take you away from the story.
The story. Oh, yes. A shapeshifting dragon. How intriguing is that? Actually, there's more than just one. Trying to hunt another one down right there in Tromso. And a regular human girl in the middle of that.
Let's just say I couldn't put the book down and finished reading it with a severe case of sleep deprivation.
I like stories that are set in real-world places, and though I've never been to Tromso, it's easy to tell the author has spent a lot of time there. Her descriptions are detailed but never take you away from the story.
The story. Oh, yes. A shapeshifting dragon. How intriguing is that? Actually, there's more than just one. Trying to hunt another one down right there in Tromso. And a regular human girl in the middle of that.
Let's just say I couldn't put the book down and finished reading it with a severe case of sleep deprivation.
December 31, 2014
I gave this book 5 stars because I loved it from beginning to end. The authors Writing style, duel perspect . ive, grabbed me as soon as I started reading the and kept me hooked until I finished it.
The character and scene descriptions were so amazing that they made me fell that I was actually one of the characters in the story as well as that I am seeing the places that are being described.
I also very quickly became addicted to the love story between the main characters Anna & Raken (the dragon) and June & Erling (dragons). As well as the story behind the relationship between the Dragons and the Elythia (people of the light Iangels)).
This book was so grate that I will recommend it to other people because I want people to be able to enjoy it like I did
The character and scene descriptions were so amazing that they made me fell that I was actually one of the characters in the story as well as that I am seeing the places that are being described.
I also very quickly became addicted to the love story between the main characters Anna & Raken (the dragon) and June & Erling (dragons). As well as the story behind the relationship between the Dragons and the Elythia (people of the light Iangels)).
This book was so grate that I will recommend it to other people because I want people to be able to enjoy it like I did
July 10, 2013
Dragon Fire takes place in far north Norway, a location which would feel exotic even if people weren't interacting with shape shifting dragons. The romance between the two main characters feels genuinely dangerous, adding a great blend of menace to the magic in the story. This is a fun read, and hard to put down once the danger really kicks up.
September 13, 2013
Fantastic read! This book had the perfect blend of reality mixed with fantasy, making the storyline riveting.
May 26, 2019
This was ok. It has tons of made up words and names that take a while to sort. Not my cup of tea.
February 5, 2014
Like a comet that only comes around every 300 years, it is extremely rare that I do not like a book that has a rating over 3.9 and it's even rarer for me to finish a book I can not read. That being said since this was the first time I have R4R for a new YA and NA group here on Goodreads I wanted to play by the rules so I would have the opportunity to again be considered to do a read for review. That being said, in reality I would've marked this book DNF at 42% and moved on.
I did not connect to any aspect of this book. The characters, the plot, the mythology. Mainly because it was extremely confusing to me. Which one? all of them. SO lets break it down: Most characters are referred to by no less than 3 names. This made it really difficult to know who the author was talking about, especially since I put this book down so often. I felt as though there was no character development and that the insta-love killed me. it really killed me If the book was written in first person and switched alternative views between Anna and Pemba than maybe i could've bought into the fact that theyre already in love but I just couldn't. He is mean to hear, disappears constantly and is kind of on the verge of forcing himself on her 90% off the time. Oh im sorry 'possessing her'. Whatever it was not romantic to me. I think the fact that Ulf, her total asshole of a mother's boyfriend (actually they're both insanely unlikable characters) is constantly coming on to her, touching her inappropriately and seducing his students made me kind of want to throw up in my mouth. I actually think that all of the boys/men in this book are written with a sexually lethal energy to them and its not in a sexy, i want more way. Its in a sucks to be a woman, at any moment someone could possess me against my will kind of way. I mean honestly ughhh.
Plot & Mythology: what was the plot? I'm not really sure. Basically the dragons are looking for an outlaw that escaped after their planet collapsed and she is accused of killing another dragon. I was extremely confused with the idea of a rok, basically it was not clearly explained till much later in the book. I can say this for a lot of things. I wish it didnt take so long to kinda of have things explained. Anna is witness to many things that just don't even come close to making sense. She's all "Oh hey I saw a shadow in the hallway?" T'gen whatever the hell you're name is: "Really how because Ka should be invisible to you, a human?" Anna: "Oh really? weird. What are you guys up to?"
And that sums up the constant weird interactions that are never explained to not only Anna (the MC) but to the reader as well.
Basically, I had extremely high expectations going into this read and felt pretty let down at the end of the book. Everyone is suspect, you dont know who anyone really is: ulf, red, anna, her parents. I understand this is probably done to ensure the reader continues with the next book but I unfortunately wont.
This book was provided to me by the author for an honest review
I did not connect to any aspect of this book. The characters, the plot, the mythology. Mainly because it was extremely confusing to me. Which one? all of them. SO lets break it down: Most characters are referred to by no less than 3 names. This made it really difficult to know who the author was talking about, especially since I put this book down so often. I felt as though there was no character development and that the insta-love killed me. it really killed me If the book was written in first person and switched alternative views between Anna and Pemba than maybe i could've bought into the fact that theyre already in love but I just couldn't. He is mean to hear, disappears constantly and is kind of on the verge of forcing himself on her 90% off the time. Oh im sorry 'possessing her'. Whatever it was not romantic to me. I think the fact that Ulf, her total asshole of a mother's boyfriend (actually they're both insanely unlikable characters) is constantly coming on to her, touching her inappropriately and seducing his students made me kind of want to throw up in my mouth. I actually think that all of the boys/men in this book are written with a sexually lethal energy to them and its not in a sexy, i want more way. Its in a sucks to be a woman, at any moment someone could possess me against my will kind of way. I mean honestly ughhh.
Plot & Mythology: what was the plot? I'm not really sure. Basically the dragons are looking for an outlaw that escaped after their planet collapsed and she is accused of killing another dragon. I was extremely confused with the idea of a rok, basically it was not clearly explained till much later in the book. I can say this for a lot of things. I wish it didnt take so long to kinda of have things explained. Anna is witness to many things that just don't even come close to making sense. She's all "Oh hey I saw a shadow in the hallway?" T'gen whatever the hell you're name is: "Really how because Ka should be invisible to you, a human?" Anna: "Oh really? weird. What are you guys up to?"
And that sums up the constant weird interactions that are never explained to not only Anna (the MC) but to the reader as well.
Basically, I had extremely high expectations going into this read and felt pretty let down at the end of the book. Everyone is suspect, you dont know who anyone really is: ulf, red, anna, her parents. I understand this is probably done to ensure the reader continues with the next book but I unfortunately wont.
This book was provided to me by the author for an honest review
August 26, 2013
I think the last time I read a dragon-themed book would be the Starlighter series (link leads to the first book in the series). While Dragon Fire is nothing alike Starlighter, it's a very interesting first book to what seems to be an interesting series.
To me, the main characters of this book are Pemba/Rakan (the dragon) and his love interest Anna (a human who's isn't that ordinary). Pemba is on earth to kill a dragon named Paliaq (check sp), who may or may not be Anna's good friend June. So half the story revolves around that, and the other half revolves around Anna and Pemba.
Since I'm not a very big fan of instalove, I'm not a huge Anna/Pemba fan. Their love seems to happen too fast, and comes on too strong, and is a bit too perfect (except for one quarrel). Actually, I think I just don't believe in insta-love. But if you do like this type of romance, you'll probably enjoy this part.
What I liked was the dragon world. They're really hierarchical, and I enjoyed reading about the inter-cairn (cairn is like a clan) relations. It seems very interesting and complex. In fact, my only complaint about this part was that too many new words were introduced without explanation. I know too much explanation drags a story, but in this case, I wasn't sure what was going on because of too many unknown words (for example, I didn't know what a Roc was for quite some time).
Oh, and a word of caution - while there is nothing explicit in the book, it does veer towards the sexual side sometimes. I'm not sure how I feel about this since Anna is only 17 years old (and *spoiler alert* mentions that she wants Pemba's baby). I have a feeling that it might get more explicit in future books.
So in conclusion, this book has a wonderfully intricate world with a fast-paced romance. It's probably more suited towards older readers too.
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
To me, the main characters of this book are Pemba/Rakan (the dragon) and his love interest Anna (a human who's isn't that ordinary). Pemba is on earth to kill a dragon named Paliaq (check sp), who may or may not be Anna's good friend June. So half the story revolves around that, and the other half revolves around Anna and Pemba.
Since I'm not a very big fan of instalove, I'm not a huge Anna/Pemba fan. Their love seems to happen too fast, and comes on too strong, and is a bit too perfect (except for one quarrel). Actually, I think I just don't believe in insta-love. But if you do like this type of romance, you'll probably enjoy this part.
What I liked was the dragon world. They're really hierarchical, and I enjoyed reading about the inter-cairn (cairn is like a clan) relations. It seems very interesting and complex. In fact, my only complaint about this part was that too many new words were introduced without explanation. I know too much explanation drags a story, but in this case, I wasn't sure what was going on because of too many unknown words (for example, I didn't know what a Roc was for quite some time).
Oh, and a word of caution - while there is nothing explicit in the book, it does veer towards the sexual side sometimes. I'm not sure how I feel about this since Anna is only 17 years old (and *spoiler alert* mentions that she wants Pemba's baby). I have a feeling that it might get more explicit in future books.
So in conclusion, this book has a wonderfully intricate world with a fast-paced romance. It's probably more suited towards older readers too.
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a free and honest review.
This review was first posted to Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
January 27, 2014
First, I gotta say, for a debut, this is an excellent book! This is a book of dragons, but it’s not quite like anything I’ve ever read. I love all dragons, almost as much as my coveted werewolves. They have some of the best secondary and main characters I’ve read in a while. There’s excellent world building. There’s really good writing. This one is going to take you for a ride!
Anna is one of the main characters. She’s a teenage girl, who goes to high school, who lives in the arctic with her single mother-who has REALLY TERRIBLE TASTE IN MEN- and has a slightly lonely life. She misses her dad, who died when she was young. She hates her mom’s new boyfriend, for seriously good reasons. She has some good friends, so at least she has that. She then meets Rakan and things spiral. She discovers something is different about herself. Then she discovers dragons. Then she discovers love with Rakan. And how similar He and her best friend June are.
Rakan is the other main character. He’s also a dragon. He’s also out to seduce Anna specifically for his mother, and their not so nice, lethal purposes. He also has to bring along his half sister, who likes to cause trouble. He is trying so hard, to make his mother happy, his sister happy, keep to the loyalty of the dragon code… But all he wants is to be with Anna and some of the other dragons that are like him, even if those are not the same thing. It’s complicated.
I am still a little behind on how everything exactly works with the dragons and some of their codes and set ups, but no worries, it’s probably because I didn’t pay the best of attention and was too busy trying to rush into the good parts LOL I really enjoyed how everything worked out, and added up. I really liked the writing- I’m quite impressed with this being the first book by this author. There is a good amount of mystery as things slowly unravel. I loved trying to figure out who was what. I really really hope that there will be a sequel in the near future! It’s definitely worth the read of book one, just to get to book two! :) a very well done 4.5 PAWS!! Please gimme more!
Anna is one of the main characters. She’s a teenage girl, who goes to high school, who lives in the arctic with her single mother-who has REALLY TERRIBLE TASTE IN MEN- and has a slightly lonely life. She misses her dad, who died when she was young. She hates her mom’s new boyfriend, for seriously good reasons. She has some good friends, so at least she has that. She then meets Rakan and things spiral. She discovers something is different about herself. Then she discovers dragons. Then she discovers love with Rakan. And how similar He and her best friend June are.
Rakan is the other main character. He’s also a dragon. He’s also out to seduce Anna specifically for his mother, and their not so nice, lethal purposes. He also has to bring along his half sister, who likes to cause trouble. He is trying so hard, to make his mother happy, his sister happy, keep to the loyalty of the dragon code… But all he wants is to be with Anna and some of the other dragons that are like him, even if those are not the same thing. It’s complicated.
I am still a little behind on how everything exactly works with the dragons and some of their codes and set ups, but no worries, it’s probably because I didn’t pay the best of attention and was too busy trying to rush into the good parts LOL I really enjoyed how everything worked out, and added up. I really liked the writing- I’m quite impressed with this being the first book by this author. There is a good amount of mystery as things slowly unravel. I loved trying to figure out who was what. I really really hope that there will be a sequel in the near future! It’s definitely worth the read of book one, just to get to book two! :) a very well done 4.5 PAWS!! Please gimme more!
March 2, 2017
I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
Dina Von Lowenkraft created an entirely new world for dragons in which dragons are shape-shifters from a different planet in which they call the "Red Planet" but plan to mate and create a new life on Earth.
I like this story because it is unique and because it's about dragons. And that's really about it. I really wanted to love everything about this novel but I just couldn't. A few problems I had with the story are:
#1- The names. Kudos to Lowenkraft for trying to be original, but it would be better if I could actually pronounce them. I found myself memorizing the looks of the name and pretty much using them as a symbol for that person or giving them nicknames. What's worse is that many of them had more than one name--their earth name and their real name. I found myself saying, "Who the heck is that? Oh, they're the same person?" And then I would go back a few pages and re-read.
#2- The lack of explanation. I love the new concept but it took me until the end of the book to half-way understand the idea. I feel like I was missing a book in the series.
#3- The ending. I think she left it open-ended just in case she wanted to write another book and make it a series. However my reaction was, "Seriously?! After all that...?"
#4- The love story. It dragged on and on. Most of the time, I didn't feel the love, but just an attraction. I was distracted by Rakan's "rok" and his urge to, quite frankly, screw her. I didn't know for sure if there was really love there, or just a natural urge to mate.
So in conclusion, it would be unfair for me to say that I didn't like the book. I did. I just feel that it could have been better. So I rated it a 3 star because 2 star means "it was okay," and I honestly think it was a little better than okay. It was actually close to being a 4 star ("really liked it") until the end. It just lost me a bit.
Dina Von Lowenkraft created an entirely new world for dragons in which dragons are shape-shifters from a different planet in which they call the "Red Planet" but plan to mate and create a new life on Earth.
I like this story because it is unique and because it's about dragons. And that's really about it. I really wanted to love everything about this novel but I just couldn't. A few problems I had with the story are:
#1- The names. Kudos to Lowenkraft for trying to be original, but it would be better if I could actually pronounce them. I found myself memorizing the looks of the name and pretty much using them as a symbol for that person or giving them nicknames. What's worse is that many of them had more than one name--their earth name and their real name. I found myself saying, "Who the heck is that? Oh, they're the same person?" And then I would go back a few pages and re-read.
#2- The lack of explanation. I love the new concept but it took me until the end of the book to half-way understand the idea. I feel like I was missing a book in the series.
#3- The ending. I think she left it open-ended just in case she wanted to write another book and make it a series. However my reaction was, "Seriously?! After all that...?"
#4- The love story. It dragged on and on. Most of the time, I didn't feel the love, but just an attraction. I was distracted by Rakan's "rok" and his urge to, quite frankly, screw her. I didn't know for sure if there was really love there, or just a natural urge to mate.
So in conclusion, it would be unfair for me to say that I didn't like the book. I did. I just feel that it could have been better. So I rated it a 3 star because 2 star means "it was okay," and I honestly think it was a little better than okay. It was actually close to being a 4 star ("really liked it") until the end. It just lost me a bit.
September 26, 2013
I was given an ARC by the author - but this has no effect on my review.
Where to start with this book. Loved the world building. First, it is set in the Norwegian Arctic circle, with fjords and Northern Lights and lots of cold nights. Made me want to cuddle deeper into my couch and read.
Second - DRAGONS! I love dragons ever since I was a child. And the great thing about this world, is the author brought in Asian customs into the whole dragon lore which doesn't happen all that much in western YA. Or not that I've read anyway.
There were some issues I had with the story. Sometimes I couldn't keep up on what was happening to the story. At times there was very little explanation or the explanation came a few pages later after I'd already searched passages and reread sections trying to figure it out. But since nobody else seems to have had that experience, I guess it was just me.
The other issue I had was of Anna, the female lead. She never truly developed into a real character for me. She never knew what was going on and accepted everything everybody told her at surface level. The relationship between Anna and her mom and mom's boyfriend was icky, but real, and I really enjoyed those parts. But it seemed that Anna was a bit too naive, especially when it came to her cousin Red and his friends.
The male character Rakan/Pemba was hot. Hot hot hot. And I really enjoyed his conflict over his relationship with Anna. I wish however, that he could have been more active in the solving of the main crisis rather than force to go back stage. I prefer my characters to be active and always be the one to change their lives. Not have their lives change for them.
And there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end. What really happened to Anna's dad? Why is her cousin how he is and how does that affect Anna and who she is. This leads me to hope there will be a sequel. Please let there be a sequel!!
Where to start with this book. Loved the world building. First, it is set in the Norwegian Arctic circle, with fjords and Northern Lights and lots of cold nights. Made me want to cuddle deeper into my couch and read.
Second - DRAGONS! I love dragons ever since I was a child. And the great thing about this world, is the author brought in Asian customs into the whole dragon lore which doesn't happen all that much in western YA. Or not that I've read anyway.
There were some issues I had with the story. Sometimes I couldn't keep up on what was happening to the story. At times there was very little explanation or the explanation came a few pages later after I'd already searched passages and reread sections trying to figure it out. But since nobody else seems to have had that experience, I guess it was just me.
The other issue I had was of Anna, the female lead. She never truly developed into a real character for me. She never knew what was going on and accepted everything everybody told her at surface level. The relationship between Anna and her mom and mom's boyfriend was icky, but real, and I really enjoyed those parts. But it seemed that Anna was a bit too naive, especially when it came to her cousin Red and his friends.
The male character Rakan/Pemba was hot. Hot hot hot. And I really enjoyed his conflict over his relationship with Anna. I wish however, that he could have been more active in the solving of the main crisis rather than force to go back stage. I prefer my characters to be active and always be the one to change their lives. Not have their lives change for them.
And there were a lot of unanswered questions at the end. What really happened to Anna's dad? Why is her cousin how he is and how does that affect Anna and who she is. This leads me to hope there will be a sequel. Please let there be a sequel!!
August 29, 2014
In Dragon Fire by Dina von Lowenkraft, Anna meets Rakan and is immediately drawn to him for reasons she can’t quite explain herself. What she doesn’t know is that he is a shapeshifting dragon. Rakan is also instantly attracted to Anna, but he tries to keep his distance because he is forbidden from getting involved with a human; however, he can’t stop himself from falling for her. To make matters worse, Rakan has vowed to seek revenge and kill the one his family has been determined to find and destroy. The problem is that this person he seeks may be Anna’s best friend, June. Not only does Rakan have to deal with his complicated feelings for Anna, but he also must decide who to side with. He must choose between his head and his heart.
I was very intrigued by the synopsis of this book, so I just had to read it, and I’m so glad I did. While the new terms and unique names had me confused a lot of the time and took awhile to get used to, I absolutely loved this story. It sucked me into this fantasy world, held on tight, and didn’t let go until the very end. Actually, I’m still in that world hours after reading it, and it’s going to be extremely difficult to come back to reality. The plot, the characters, the different relationships, the action, the mystery, and so much more had me hooked. But, by far, my favorite part was the budding relationship between Anna and Rakan. They had this unique innocence and sweetness to them that was completely genuine and believable. I couldn’t help but smile and get butterflies in my stomach every time they interacted throughout the book. Dina von Lowenkraft has such a gift for bringing characters to life and making readers really feel for them. I would definitely recommend Dragon Fire to anyone interested in the young adult, fantasy, or romance genres. I was really impressed, and I am hoping for a sequel, which I will anxiously wait for.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
I was very intrigued by the synopsis of this book, so I just had to read it, and I’m so glad I did. While the new terms and unique names had me confused a lot of the time and took awhile to get used to, I absolutely loved this story. It sucked me into this fantasy world, held on tight, and didn’t let go until the very end. Actually, I’m still in that world hours after reading it, and it’s going to be extremely difficult to come back to reality. The plot, the characters, the different relationships, the action, the mystery, and so much more had me hooked. But, by far, my favorite part was the budding relationship between Anna and Rakan. They had this unique innocence and sweetness to them that was completely genuine and believable. I couldn’t help but smile and get butterflies in my stomach every time they interacted throughout the book. Dina von Lowenkraft has such a gift for bringing characters to life and making readers really feel for them. I would definitely recommend Dragon Fire to anyone interested in the young adult, fantasy, or romance genres. I was really impressed, and I am hoping for a sequel, which I will anxiously wait for.
Reviewed by ME for Readers' Favorite
November 25, 2013
Drawn to this book by the promise of dragon shifters, I was delighted when the story was as unique and interesting as the description suggested. Dragon shifters Rakan and Dvara are sent to hunt down and kill a rival dragon to get vengeance for their family. Things become complicated when feelings get in the way, and Rakan becomes torn between his family and his heart.
The author was able to provide us with a complex story with complex characters. Anna was an interesting character. She seemed very innocent but had this otherness about her that made her notice things more than she should have. It made her question everyone and everything, and it was fun to watch her learn all about the world around her. Rakan was a realistic character in that his inner struggles were written well. He understood he had to honor his family but his heart led him in another direction completely. Of all of story's characters, Dvara actually interested me the most because I never quite knew where she stood. She added a lot of mystery to the story.
While there were many layers to this story and great world building, for me the beginning of the book was a bit confusing. We were thrown right into the story with story-specific wording that was not explained, triggers for example, and I felt a bit lost for a while. Things did eventually come together for a coherent and complete story, but it would have been nice to have a bit more description or explanation of these things in the beginning so we had it right from the start.
Also worth mentioning is the absolutely beautiful cover for this book. It is definitely eye-catching. Overall this was an entertaining story with a unique premise. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author was able to provide us with a complex story with complex characters. Anna was an interesting character. She seemed very innocent but had this otherness about her that made her notice things more than she should have. It made her question everyone and everything, and it was fun to watch her learn all about the world around her. Rakan was a realistic character in that his inner struggles were written well. He understood he had to honor his family but his heart led him in another direction completely. Of all of story's characters, Dvara actually interested me the most because I never quite knew where she stood. She added a lot of mystery to the story.
While there were many layers to this story and great world building, for me the beginning of the book was a bit confusing. We were thrown right into the story with story-specific wording that was not explained, triggers for example, and I felt a bit lost for a while. Things did eventually come together for a coherent and complete story, but it would have been nice to have a bit more description or explanation of these things in the beginning so we had it right from the start.
Also worth mentioning is the absolutely beautiful cover for this book. It is definitely eye-catching. Overall this was an entertaining story with a unique premise. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2016
The story is about two siblings Dvara and Rakan being sent to earth by Rakan’s mother to kill the dragon who ripped apart their home planet. The children have been left in the dark about all the true events and information and brought up to believe Paaliaq rained the chances of dragons mating by destroying the planets. Unfortunately it was a lie. After meeting Anna, Rakan found out that what he was brought up on was a lie or manipulated in her favor so she had them to do her bidding. Anna, Lysa, Ea, Red, Haakan, the twins and Liv introduced them to the light beings and also the truth. The person they were sent to kill had fractured and Paaliaq’s body was frozen on one of the fragments of the home plant while her fractured being became June a child who was not Paaliaq but imbedded her traits. Unfortunately that did not matter. Will June be killed for being someone she doesn’t know she is? Will Anna and Rakan be able to be together? Read it to find out. I loved this book and was fascinated on how much was put into it. So much information to process, but it made the book intriguing and it drew me in. I did not have a favorite because all the characters fascinated me. I loved the seen with the flowers. You’ll understand when you read. Very moving. The light beings and the Draak were defiantly fascinating and made you really think what angels are. I recommend this for young adults and adults. Very interesting and moving. Definitely Paranormal romance. People who love reading dragon books will definitely be drawn in by this book, also Asian folk-lore fans will be drawn in as well due to the Asian style dragon descriptions.
Till next time ~ Sweets Books
(Written by Beth ~ Sweets Books After Hours)
March 8, 2014
5 cupcakes
This book was gifted to me by Sweets Books and Dina von Lowenkraft.
The story is about two siblings Dvara and Rakan being sent to earth by Rakan’s mother to kill the dragon who ripped apart their home planet. The children have been left in the dark about all the true events and information and brought up to believe Paaliaq rained the chances of dragons mating by destroying the planets. Unfortunately it was a lie. After meeting Anna, Rakan found out that what he was brought up on was a lie or manipulated in her favor so she had them to do her bidding. Anna, Lysa, Ea, Red, Haakan, the twins and Liv introduced them to the light beings and also the truth. The person they were sent to kill had fractured and Paaliaq’s body was frozen on one of the fragments of the home plant while her fractured being became June a child who was not Paaliaq but imbedded her traits. Unfortunately that did not matter. Will June be killed for being someone she doesn’t know she is? Will Anna and Rakan be able to be together? Read it to find out.
I loved this book and was fascinated on how much was put into it. So much information to process, but it made the book intriguing and it drew me in. I did not have a favorite because all the characters fascinated me. I loved the seen with the flowers. You’ll understand when you read. Very moving. The light beings and the Draak were defiantly fascinating and made you really think what angels are.
I recommend this for young adults and adults. Very interesting and moving. Definitely Paranormal romance. People who love reading dragon books will definitely be drawn in by this book, also Asian folk lore fans will be drawn in as well due to the Asian style dragon descriptions.
This book was gifted to me by Sweets Books and Dina von Lowenkraft.
The story is about two siblings Dvara and Rakan being sent to earth by Rakan’s mother to kill the dragon who ripped apart their home planet. The children have been left in the dark about all the true events and information and brought up to believe Paaliaq rained the chances of dragons mating by destroying the planets. Unfortunately it was a lie. After meeting Anna, Rakan found out that what he was brought up on was a lie or manipulated in her favor so she had them to do her bidding. Anna, Lysa, Ea, Red, Haakan, the twins and Liv introduced them to the light beings and also the truth. The person they were sent to kill had fractured and Paaliaq’s body was frozen on one of the fragments of the home plant while her fractured being became June a child who was not Paaliaq but imbedded her traits. Unfortunately that did not matter. Will June be killed for being someone she doesn’t know she is? Will Anna and Rakan be able to be together? Read it to find out.
I loved this book and was fascinated on how much was put into it. So much information to process, but it made the book intriguing and it drew me in. I did not have a favorite because all the characters fascinated me. I loved the seen with the flowers. You’ll understand when you read. Very moving. The light beings and the Draak were defiantly fascinating and made you really think what angels are.
I recommend this for young adults and adults. Very interesting and moving. Definitely Paranormal romance. People who love reading dragon books will definitely be drawn in by this book, also Asian folk lore fans will be drawn in as well due to the Asian style dragon descriptions.
September 4, 2013
I have to start by saying this is one of the most intense books I’ve read in quite some time. But it was such a GOOD intense! The worlds and characters and intricacies of the relationships throughout the book were incredibly creative and detailed.
My only reason for giving the book 4 instead of 5 stars is because of the beginning of the book. The reader is instantly put into this world with names, places, beliefs, and phrases that are very important to the story, but a bit hard to wrap your mind around in the beginning. Almost like there is a prequel that I missed. However, DO NOT let that keep you from reading this book! It may take a bit (and some may figure much of it out much faster than me), it does eventually become more and more clear, and you find just how important all of it is to the story.
Of course, my most favorite characters were Rakan and Anna, the main characters. But I especially loved how well translated the complication of their relationship was, since he was a Dragon falling in love with a human, and so desperately needed to be with her, without scaring her away or hurting her. I adored him, and every choice he made increased how much I adored him.
All of their friends, family, and extended family were very well placed, and easy to like as well. I was very surprised with how detailed this book was, and to find out only when I got to the last page, that it was only the beginning of the story. And it is clear that this story is just going to keep getting better. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
This Review is copyrighted. Please do not share without giving Paranormal Reads/Erin full credit.
My only reason for giving the book 4 instead of 5 stars is because of the beginning of the book. The reader is instantly put into this world with names, places, beliefs, and phrases that are very important to the story, but a bit hard to wrap your mind around in the beginning. Almost like there is a prequel that I missed. However, DO NOT let that keep you from reading this book! It may take a bit (and some may figure much of it out much faster than me), it does eventually become more and more clear, and you find just how important all of it is to the story.
Of course, my most favorite characters were Rakan and Anna, the main characters. But I especially loved how well translated the complication of their relationship was, since he was a Dragon falling in love with a human, and so desperately needed to be with her, without scaring her away or hurting her. I adored him, and every choice he made increased how much I adored him.
All of their friends, family, and extended family were very well placed, and easy to like as well. I was very surprised with how detailed this book was, and to find out only when I got to the last page, that it was only the beginning of the story. And it is clear that this story is just going to keep getting better. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
This Review is copyrighted. Please do not share without giving Paranormal Reads/Erin full credit.
March 17, 2014
The cover art, story and concept all drew me in from the start, and I was really looking forward to getting engrossed in the world of dragons for a change. I found the beginning a little confusing, as the story jumps from one group to another and there are so many characters (many with ‘dragon’ and ‘human’ names) to remember but once I got used to the writing style this became second nature and my imagination soon took over, picturing it all as the story unfolded. It’s a very complex, magically descriptive read that needs full attention, and I’m sure there are things that I missed given the detailed nature of the story, but it is definitely one to read.
It did take me a little while to get lost in the story (fantasy and dragons aren’t my normal reading material), but once I did I was happily turning page after page to see how things were going to work out. I enjoyed how it ended, but there is so much more to come from this story and I can’t wait to read what comes next.
I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It did take me a little while to get lost in the story (fantasy and dragons aren’t my normal reading material), but once I did I was happily turning page after page to see how things were going to work out. I enjoyed how it ended, but there is so much more to come from this story and I can’t wait to read what comes next.
I received an e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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