Dragon Awakened

The Hidden #1

by Jaime Rush

They are the Hidden.
Not quite human. Far from normal.
And never, ever safe…

Playing With Fire

Ruby Salazaar wants answers…and revenge. Her uncle has just been murdered before her eyes and the name he utters with his final breath—Cyntag—leads Ruby into a world beyond her wildest imaginings. She soon learns that the dark, sexy Cyntag Valeron knows more about her than she does herself.

Burned By Love

Ruby changed Cyn's life before she even knew who he was. Now she charges into his life, a beautiful woman full of fire and questions. Cyn knew this day would come, yet he couldn't foresee the danger—and desires—Ruby would bring with her. He can teach her how to harness her newly awakened powers. But there is one force neither of them can control…

Genres: Dragons, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Shapeshifters

368 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 17, 2013

About the author

Things that go bump in the night have always intrigued me. Sometimes those things are human; other times, not so much. I really played with this in my Hidden series, that reveals humans with the essence of gods who walk the knife's edge between Miami and a magical world of passion and danger. Part dragon, angel, or sorcerer, they must fight their own kind, demons, and the lure of their darkest nature.

If you’re familiar with my Tina Wainscott books, you know I'm fascinated with all things psychic. In my award-winning Offspring series, I throw a group of strangers with inexplicable psychic abilities together in a fight for their lives. As Tina, I write romantic suspense with magical realism elements (Love & Light series), The Justiss Alliance series (military romantic suspense), romantic drama in the Falling Series, and psychological suspense. Altogether I’ve published thirty-four novels and five novellas. See more www.JaimeRush.com and www.TinaWainscott.com

https://books2read.com/jaimerush

amazon.com/author/jaimerush

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Welcome to a fantastic new magical world co-existing with our reality in Dragon Awakened .

Jamie Rush creates a marvelously imaginative paranormal backdrop for the beings known as the “Hidden”. The Hidden are the descendants of “gods” and are called the Dragons, Deuces (human-like sorcerers), and the Angels.

Twenty years ago, Cyn saved a young girl named Ruby, and now she needs his help. Someone is trying to kill her, and it all goes back to the fateful day when her parents were killed. Cyn and Ruby must find the people behind their parents' murders and figure out why they were targets in the first place to save Ruby from the same fate. Uncovering a much more sinister plan, Cyn and Ruby will be fighting for their lives and the lives of the Hidden.

Rush provides an action-packed plot with exciting but complicated romantic chemistry between Cyn and Ruby. Dragon Awakened is a vivid and fascinating introduction into the world of the Hidden...a world you won't want to miss.

I received this ARC copy of Dragon Awakened from Forever (Grand Central Publishing) in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on December 17, 2013.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very promising start to a new series. Dragons, Deuces (think Mage) and others live amongst us. They are The Hidden. First Rule of the Hidden is never to let humans know about The Hidden.

Ruby Salazaar, became an orphan after a terrible boating accident, and was raised by her uncle Moncrief, whilst her grandfather Brom had a breakdown and was sent to an asylum. Brom and Moncrief are Deuces, though Ruby doesn't know that, and she also doesn't know that her mum was a carnelian Dragon. Dragons always breed true.

Cyntag Valeron, a black Dragon, was a Guard assassin, until the night he was ordered to kill everyone on a boat and went with his gut and saved Ruby. Cyn watches over Ruby from afar until the night that Moncrief is murdered.

Really enjoyed the world building, The Hidden, and I can see more adventures to come as those pesky Gods keep interfering.

[AH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initial Thoughts:After a slow start (and learning the lingo), Dragon Awakened was a fun read. The author creates an interesting magical world inhabited by Deuces (sorcerers), dragons, and some pretty scary demons. I found this to be a solid start to the author's new series The Hidden.

The Review:
After a slow and shaky start, Dragon Awakened hit its stride and became quite the enjoyable read for me. I had a little difficulty getting my bearings at first – the lingo was a little different from what I am used to in paranormal romance and urban fantasy. As soon as I figured it out, (and this could just be me) I was captivated by the story.

The author builds an intriguing world that is hidden from the Mundanes (that would be us regular folks). Dragon Awakened has a population of Crescents who are people with magickal abilities. The Crescents originated from a sunken island in the Devil’s Triangle. They must live close to the Devil’s Triangle in order to replenish their magick through the Deus Vis. Conveniently, most of this magickal population lives near Miami.

The magickal people are called Deuces. Think sorcerers or mages. There are also all kinds of dragon shifters as well. To further complicate things, a bunch of deadly demons have been summoned to Miami in order to kill off one of our main characters.

The story begins as Ruby Salazaar witnesses the murder of her uncle and guardian by magickal means. Ruby has no idea that she possesses any magickal abilities and is surprised to find out that she needs to awaken her dragon. Cyn Valeron takes Ruby under his wing to mentor her in all things dragon. Only this relationship is about to get complicated. It seems that dragons are a lusty lot, especially newly awakened dragons. Ruby’s dragon is very much attracted to Cyn. Cyn feels as if he has found his soul mate, however there is a little complication to the relationship.

The story is told with excerpts in between chapters from the Book of the Hidden. The Book of the Hidden is a kind of history book which tells the story of the Princess Garnet and her Dragon prince. The events in The Book of the Hidden mirror the events in real life and it follows the progression of Garnet’s (Ruby’s) and the Dragon prince’s (Cyn’s) relationship.

I loved the main characters. Cyn was so strong and tough, yet he had feelings of remorse for the events of his past. Cyn’s dragon was magnificent and lethal, a real fighter. Ruby was a quick learner, embracing her dragon and running with her. I loved Ruby’s fiercely independent side and how she fought alongside Cyn. Cyn and Ruby’s relationship was nicely done. No insta-love, mated pair, soul mate moments. Rather, a yearning by their dragons for each other while their human sides got to know each other. And whoa, when they do get together, it’s pretty hot.

Dragon Awakened is a solid start to Jaime Rush’s new Hidden series. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series. (And I just found out that there are 2 prequels which I need to go back and read!).

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for a review copy of this book.

Review posted on Badass Book Reviews.

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first book by this author and hopefully not my last. I'm a huge fan of paranormal books and was quite curious to see if this new to me author could breathe new life into one of my favourite genres . It seems at the moment as if every new series either features zombies or dragons and as this book is all about dragons I thought I would give it a go and I'm pleased that I did.
Dragon Awakened has quite a complicated back story that's centred near the so called Devils Triangle and features a magical race composed of Crescents who protect the Hidden and Deuces who are well like a Mage really I suppose. Demons exist as well and obviously Dragon shifters. They are descended from gods and live hidden amongst ordinary humans whom they call Mundanes.
This story starts with a dragon shifter being sent out to assassinate a family on a boat out at sea. For some reason although he murders the parents he allows their young daughter Ruby to live and finds her a home . She has remained with her uncle for several years without realising that the stories he told her of magic and dragons were all true. Further more she herself has powers that have remained dormant but one night she returns home to see her uncle cruelly struck down. With his dying breath he mentions Cyntag and Ruby decides to track him down.
Cyntag is responsible for the death of Ruby's parents and feels great remorse over it. Not quite sure why they were targeted he has always done his best to help protect Ruby but her uncle was a stubborn man. Now Ruby is convinced that he's the man responsible for her uncles death but for once Cyntag is not the killer. Saving Ruby's life all those years ago changed him and he's not about to just stand by and see her die now. Cyntag has his work cut out convincing Ruby of her abilities but he also has to protect her. Ruby's dragon heritage is starting to make itself felt and Cyntags dragon is not entirely immune to her. As Ruby learns more about her true self her attraction to Cyntag begins to grow and soon it begins to turn into an all consuming blaze. Danger is not far away though as Ruby's powers seem likely to give away her location.
It was a bit of a slow start for me as it certainly is not a simple background story that Ms Rush has written but I liked that. It's very refreshing to have something that is so different that the reader really has to pay attention. Her hero Cyntag is a gorgeous hot and very fiery dragon but the heroine Ruby is far from a pushover. I loved the independent way she stood up to him and their chemistry set the pages on fire! Loving the slow burn!
Lots going on in this book and I'm sure that any follow ups will be just as entertainng.

[Literati Literature Lovers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dragon Awakened by Jaime Rush is the start of a new urban fantasy series set in the sweltering heat of Miami. An entire group of paranormal beings live amongst regular mundane humans in the southern Florida town. These beings are hidden and so is the elaborate world that they inhabit. Rush blends a variation of paranormal characters in an explosion of layers that will be sure to wet any urban fantasy readers’ appetite.

In this first book the reader is thrust into Rush’s new world where like the main character Ruby Salazaar, not everything is at it seems. Ruby discovers she is part of a hidden realm that she grew up believing was a fairy tale. A realm where paranormal people are real and she happens to be one of them. In her awakening to her paranormal life she encounter her protector Cyntag Valeron. These two characters meet and combust on the page.

What I liked most about the book is that Rush is building a new urban fantasy world, which is inhabited with several different species which means that Rush has lots of plot dynamics to expand upon in future books. It will be interesting to see where Rush takes this new series.

The book had some continuity issues. I am a huge paranormal/urban fantasy reader and some elements in Rush’s physical descriptions of the dragons, threw me a curve ball. For example, human turns into a dragon that has four feet, then when fighting as a dragon would the dragon not have a front leg vs. and arm. Talons vs. fist. So when a character in dragon form used a fist, it wasn’t consistent with the physical form of the character. Yes, I am a picky reader when it comes to shape changing. These aren’t huge problems and they can be corrected as the series goes on.

At some points the reasoning behind the paranormal drama, became a little muddled in reasoning of why the bad guys wanted Ruby dead. If they had never killed Ruby’s uncle to begin with, Ruby would have been blissfully ignorant; and their plot would have succeeded. Ruby had no key information and it didn’t seem to really matter if she lived or died. I thought maybe Ruby was the key to some big secret, that would explain it all but that never materialize.

What I adored about this book was that Rush wrote a book about two characters that were not really living a full life. Cyn because of his past had not cared if he lived or died, Ruby made him feel again. Him feeling again was a major shock to him, as he had been numb for years. Ruby had always felt that something was missing and because of Cyn discovered part of her life that made her whole. I think this series is one that is going to fun to read and I recommend it.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

*** I won this book on Goodreads First reads***

Author, Jaime Rush has created a believable new world and series with this book. The name of the series is "The Hidden" which is based on the fact that supernaturals are undisclosed to the mundane world. Supernaturals are made up of 3 types of descendants of the "gods": Dragons, Deuces (likened to sorcerers), and Angels.

The books starts with some hard-hitting action taking place almost 20 years in the past and resulting in an orphan girl. It picks up in the present with now 20-something orphan, Ruby. Strange happenings and the death of her uncle thrust Rudy into the world of the supernatural and sphere of sexy ex-assassin/policing agent Cyn -- the Dragon who killed her parents.

Ruby and Cyn must learn to work together and understand the chemistry developing between them. At first I was bothered by the fact that Cyn who is 200+ years old would be interested in an untried 20-something female. However, Ms Rush really lays out and creates the explanation. Essentially Cyn who is also an orphan has gotten so old and jaded he has turned off all of his feelings i.e., is emotionally dead. Ruby is the life injection he needed, awakening deep feelings through her fiery spirit and enjoyment of life.

Cyn and Ruby work together to find the person responsible for having Cyn kill her parents and fall into a bigger issue of a plot to essentially destroy the majority of supernatural beings leaving only a select few behind. Great story, but I felt the ending was a little rushed and lacking in detail. However, can't wait for the next one in the series.

[DelAnne Frazee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Dragon Awakened (Hidden Novel Book 1)
Author: Jaime Rush
Published: 12-17-2013
Publisher: Forever Yours/Hatchette Book Group
Pages: 368
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Sub-Genre: Shifter, Drama, Angels, Demons, Paranormal, Sorcery
ISBN: 13-978-14555-2322-1
ISBN: 10-13555-2322-4
ASIN: BooCO7FNIQ
Sensual Level: 3

Dragon Awakened is a book that grabs you from the very first and keeps you
glued to it until the final words. I was not expecting it to be so
enticing. Listed as an erotic book on most book sites is a bit of a
misnomer. There are a couple of detailed sexual scenes, but the book is
easily carried by its detailed story line. Ms. Rush uses her writing
talents to good measure to entertain her readers with a story of
intrigue, murder and paranormal elements.

Since I read Dragon Awakened I have learned there are two novellas proceeding it, Dragon Mine ( 100 pages) and Dragon Rising ((99 pages). There are two full length stories that follow it Magic Possessed and Angel Seduced. All of
which I am looking forward to reading and posting reviews for.

If like myself you have not read any of Jaime Rush's work before you are in for a treat. Join me in exploring the world of The Hidden.


Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Awakened...

Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews...

Kobel link:

Goodreads link:

The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jaime Rush did a spectacular job on this novel, Dragon Awakened. I had actually gotten the second novel at a giant book clearance at a book store, so I picked up the first novel to begin the series. It was not what I expected at all, which is a good thing! I expected it to be a cheesey set of dragons flying around, but instead it's sexy humans who have a dragon sort of soul. Amazing idea! And amazing writing!

I did find this novel to move slow, which made it very hard to read, but the action and romance when it came was excellent and beautifully written. It needed to move faster to the plot instead of having these little side adventures that didn't seem to go anywhere. I did love the book though, and I felt like I couldn't put the book down.

I really liked this book and I will definitely read any other books Jaime Rush had, but it wasn't the most excellent start for a series. The characters were well developed, the plot was well planned, but I just found some of the chapters to be very boring.

Overall, it was a very good novel and I would suggest it to those looking for an out of the norm fantasy or supernatural type book.

Three out of five stars.

[Sara Egolf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have the privilege of previewing this fantastic, exciting first installment of Jamie Rush's new series. This was my first experience in the written world of Jamie Rush & I wasn't disappointed. Rush has twisted an incredible story of action, romance, intrigue, suffering, magick, & even some comic relief. This book pulled me in from the very 1st page & just kept me wanting more. With colorful descriptions & impressive dialogue it was simple to invest in these characters of Cyntag & Ruby. The last chapter was terribly nerve racking (in a good way) because I wanted to see the happy ending these characters deserved so badly. I won't tell you if they achieved it, but I will tell you the ending suited the story perfectly & I can't wait to check out the rest of this series. In the meantime I'll be catching up on the Offspring series, which if anything close to as good as Dragon Awakened will be another wild ride for me & I can't wait!

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave it 3.5/5 stars

I did read one of the prequel books to the series and really enjoyed the world that Jaime introduced. DRAGON AWAKENED continues to build on that world. I really like all the different dragon types as well as the other paranormal creatures that are introduced. I hate to admit it buy Ruby really annoyed me many times in the beginning of the book. She is skeptical about things that Cyn tells her which is completely understandable but she does super reckless things that puts not only her but other innocents in danger. She does get more likable as the book goes on but I kept waiting for her to do something stupid again. There is a lot of sexual tension involved and the romance gets pretty hot at times after some conflict. I will most likely be picking up book 2 when it comes out.

* This book was provided free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Awesome read of new series dragons, dueces and magic ruby needs answers cyn has them as well as secrets and there's drama heat passion go read find out how the series starts.

[Sue Shep · Rating 3 out of 5]

Loved these characters and the sizzling chemistry between them. Fast paced action and lots other worldly beings.

[Dark Faerie Tales · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: Ruby is a normal woman until something happens that changes her life forever. Now, she’s in a world surrounded by dragons, demons, angels, and mages. One man is willing to show her the ropes, but can she trust him?

Opening Sentence: Cyntag’s phone rang.

The Review:

I was very curious what the first full book of The Hidden series would be like after reading the two prequel novellas, both of which I enjoyed, but I felt they were too short to really garner an opinion of the series. While I had some issues with this first book, I feel it holds great promise and could end up being a really good series.

Fifteen years ago, Ruby’s life fell apart when her parents died. Since then, she’s been raised by her uncle Moncrief. One seemingly normal day, she receives a call from Moncrief, telling her to come to his house as quickly as she can. When she arrives, she finds Moncrief dying, a victim of what appears to Ruby to be a lightning strike, as she finds him with an electric bolt through his chest. She then finds herself chased through the house by an orb of some sort. She has no idea what’s going on, but in searching the house, she finds information on one Cyntag Valeron, the man she believes is responsible for her uncle’s death. Determined to find out what’s going on, Ruby sets out to find Cyntag.

Fifteen years ago, Cyn was an assassin. He received an assignment to kill everyone on board a yacht. After killing the man and woman on board, he comes across a sleeping nine-year-old girl. Although he had long thought of himself as emotionless, Cyn finds he cannot kill an innocent child and sees to it that she finds her uncle. Now, the child is all grown up and completely ignorant of the world she belongs to, one filled with dragons, Deuces (mages), and the offspring of angels. Cyn feels it’s his responsibility to Awaken Ruby’s dragon and serve as her protector until they can find the people responsible for her uncle’s death. How will Ruby react when she finds out the man she’s falling in love with is also the man who killed her parents?

I really liked Ruby. She’s strong, not wanting to rely on a man to protect her, but at the same time, she’s willing to admit she’s not quite ready to take on demons, dragons, and Deuces all on her own. Her reaction to this new world comes off as very realistic. Cyn, I found a little harder to like, mainly because his character felt a little less developed than Ruby’s. It feels like we spend more time in Ruby’s head than Cyn’s, which could have a lot to do with why it was harder for me to connect to Cyn. When it comes to Cyn and Ruby as a couple, the chemistry leaps off the pages. There is a palpable connection there, and I found myself waiting with bated breath for the time when they would finally admit their feelings for each other.

Another issue I had was it felt like the story resolved itself too quickly. I was completely enjoying where the story was going and liked the conflicts that were going on between Cyn and Ruby, and then it seemed like all was well far too soon. I was still enjoying the story, but I was left feeling disappointed.

That being said, I feel this is a world rife with possibilities. There is a lot Jaime Rush can do here, and I for one am excited to see what ideas she comes up with. Fans of paranormal romance should definitely give this series a shot!

Notable Scene:

“I can deal with dangerous. What we don’t know is whether you’re a target because you were a witness to Moncrief’s death or if there’s another reason.” He saw the fear on her face. Good. She needed to be afraid. But she also needed to be strong and ready to fight. He changed tack. “I can stash you away in a safe house and find out who’s behind this.”

He saw his words prickle at her. The little girl vanished, and the woman who’d held a gun to his chest stepped into her place. Perfect.

“I’m not hiding. I want to find out who killed my uncle.” She curled her hand into a fist. “I want them to die.”

He tried to stifle his smile and the pride it would reveal. “Then you’ll need to be Awakened.”

“Into a Dragon.” Her bravado wilted. “I’ll become what you did at the library?”

“Yes. The next time you face a demon, you’ll be prepared. You’ll at least know what you’re dealing with.”

“And see it. The only thing scarier than seeing you as a Dragon was not seeing that thing.”

She was getting it. “But know that Awakening will be intense and painful. Training will be the hardest thing you’ve ever done.” Before he thought better of it, he reached out and brushed his finger against her cheek. “I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

She stiffened at his touch. “Why does that not comfort me?”

He pulled back, irritated that he’d let himself go soft. “Then here’s something else for you to focus on: when we Catalyze to Dragon…we do it naked.”

FTC Advisory: Forever/Hachette Book Group provided me with a copy of Dragon Awakened. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

[Paranormal Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since the death of her parents when she was thirteen, the heroine has been raised by her uncle who told her stories of a dragon prince and the magical world of the Hidden. Enchanted as a children, as a grown woman, to discover all the stories were based on fact is quite a shock. Seeing her uncle murdered before her eyes by a magical orb and barely escaping with her own life, she's determined to seek revenge on the one responsible. Her uncle said a man's dying before he died and that name has led her to the hero. He possesses one hell of an aura and presence. He commands the room without trying and with a cool and smooth confidence. She tries to fight her attraction to him, holding onto her anger as she threatens him with a gun but he calmly states he's not the one responsible for her uncles murder and is, in fact, her protector. His name on the dying man's lips was not an accusation but rather a sign for her to seek him out for aid in learning this new world as well as understanding the dragon within her. She of course things he's crazy, delicious and hansom as all hell, but crazy as a loon. Until she's attacked by an invisible enemy. He saves her--by changing into a beautiful black dragon and killing the demon who had been sent to kill her. From then on, she accepts the fact that her entire world has gone topsy turby and the hero, her teacher, is the only one she can rely on to show her how to control her beast and track down the true villain. The hero is a hard man, rather emotionless or so he'd have her think. He gets under her skin with his arrogance and the habit of keeping what he's really thinking to himself. But he is an able teacher. He tells her to keep a rational head, to not let her emotions rule and in turn, he saves her just as many times as she saves herself. She is a natural and she does him proud, not that he's quick with the compliments. The chemistry between them is hot and passionate and she knows that despite his claim of their dragons lust being responsible, there's something deeper to blame. She can see that passion in his eyes and this new found confidence and seduction makes her behave far more brazenly then she's ever been. The hero keeps telling her he's no good for her, that they can't be together and she never understood why until he reveals the truth to her. He was the one hired to kill her parents. He was once the more sought after assassin for the Guild until he lost his faith in the organization, all because he couldn't stomach the justification of killing a little girl-the heroine. She is appalled and hurt by his declaration even though inside she understands his pain and remorse. She tries to hate him but somehow she can't seem to do it. Maybe it's his honor, his loyalty and his soul that shines with decency that to blame. Or maybe it's the dragon inside her which calls out to him, claiming him as her own. Maybe it's the fact that she loves him. Regardless, she finally eases his pain and does the unthinkable, she forgives him. He never expected or hoped for her forgiveness and the idea of being able to love her and have her for his own gives him strength to do anything.

What a lovely book, and one that was totally unexpected when I read it the first time and has actually improved for the second time around. I was enchanted by the characters-both their personalities as well as their interaction with one another. Their was banter and stubbornness as well as passion and was along for the ride 100%. Marvelous male lead, so full of guilt and remorse that he just wanted the heroine happy and safe even if it meant she couldn't bare to look at him again once she knew the truth. Loyal to a fault and never once wavering on that devotion no matter what the heroine said or did. She could be stubborn at time, thinking more as a human than a dragon but she learned quick and when it counted she was reliable and smart. She gave as good as she got and though she bantered with the hero, she still looked to him as a safety net and someone she could rely on implicitly. I'm excited to read the rest of the series because this world was magical and had a unique and interesting spin on paranormal mythology. Well done Jaime Rush, well done.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love dragon shifter books so I'm always on the look out for a new dragon series to devour and Jaime Rush's series The Hidden is definitely one to look out for.

Fifteen years ago dragon shifter Cyntag Valeron was given the order to take out everyone on board the yacht Physikal out at sea. As an assassin Cyn was used to following such orders but didn't expect to see the couple he killed's young daughter sleeping soundly throughout the ordeal, this leaves Cyn with a real dilemma.

Fast forward to the present day and Ruby Salazaar has been brought up by her pseudo-uncle Moncrief believing that her parents died in a boating accident. When Mon calls Ruby urgently telling her there are some things he should have told her long ago, Ruby rushes straight to his house to find that that a strange bolt of green lightening has speared Mon to the wall and in his dying breath all Mon is able to do is warn Ruby that this is magick lightening sent by someone dangerous that will kill her also if it sees her. In his final words the only clue Mon is able to leave Ruby with is the name Cyntag.

As Ruby tries to piece together what Mon was trying to tell her, Ruby finds that the stories Mon created for her a child full of a hidden world of magick, angels, sorcerers, dragons and a dragon prince in a book known as The Book of the Hidden are actually true and that Ruby's world is going to change forever.

Ruby starts her journey convinced that the mysterious Cyntag is somehow responsible for Mon's death and is determined to find and confront his killer. Ruby traces Cyn to the mixed martial arts studio he now owns but Ruby has no idea whatsoever that Cyn is not only a powerful dragon shifter or that he is connected to the death of her parents. Protecting Ruby from her true heritage, Mon cast a spell to keep the magick in Ruby's eyes hidden but now that Mon is gone the spell is finally wearing off putting Ruby in extreme danger. With no knowledge about her true powers its up to Cyn her sworn protector and saviour to now train and protect Ruby the child he spared fifteen years ago.

I loved the world building of Dragon Awakened, basically Ruby should have been initiated or "awakened" at puberty to her dragon heritage but Mon had a real reason to keep Ruby hidden. With no real knowledge of the dragon world whatsoever Ruby has to get a crash course on being a dragon from Cyn and copes with it all quite well I thought!

The relationship between Cyn and Ruby with their complicated history is never going to be plain sailing. Cyn comes across as the older teacher/protector and therefore Ruby is very much initially off limits to him, he thinks she's too young and not actually his type but simmering away in the background their dragons are hot for each other. I liked that they both awaken each other, Ruby really brings back Cyn's passion for life and Cyn teaches Ruby about true dragon history.

All in all, I was really impressed with the start of this new series and with the next instalment Magic Possessed out on January the 28th I know I'll be tuning in for more from The Hidden. 4 out of 5.

[Mnix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ruby Salazaar was raised by her uncle Moncrief, when her parents died. Moncrief filled Ruby’s world with tales of dragons, magic and other creatures known as the Hidden. When Ruby receives an urgent call from Moncrief, she rushes to his side only to find him killed by some type of odd glowing orb. His last breath is a name – a name that Ruby knows from her uncle. Now she is off to find and kill the man who killed her beloved uncle.

Cyntag Valeron is beyond surprised with Ruby shows up at his gym and then threatens him with a gun. Even more surprising is learning why, that Moncrief is dead and how it happened. As an over 200 year old dragon, Cyntag knows many things about Ruby that she doesn’t and now it appears it’s all on his shoulders to teach Ruby the truth about her heritage and to help her find out who killed her uncle and why.

Ruby can’t believe what Cyntag is telling her – that is until she releases her inner dragon and powers. Ruby is a child in learning her dragon’s powers and strengths and unfortunately she really doesn’t have the time to learn them along the way. Cyntag and Ruby split their time between training Ruby and hunting down the answers to just what happened to her uncle. As the clues come together, it appears that the reason why goes back to when her parents died – now she knows that they were killed. Along the way, Cyntag and Ruby also discover a passionate love that isn’t going to take ‘no’ for an answer. All the answers are coming together and the danger is ramping up when Cyntag and Ruby finally know who was behind the glowing orbs, the death of her parents and uncle and the reason really behind it all. The final battle is going to be a winner take all – the only question is will the team of Cyntag and Ruby have what it takes to win the day and put the magic world back on it’s correct path.

Take two feisty dragon shifters and toss in danger, suspense and a deep passion filled with love and you have just the beginning of Cyntag and Ruby’s story in Dragon Awakened. I was amazed at how much Cyntag tried to control his need of Ruby while trying to show her just what her true being really was and trying to help her solve the mysterious deaths of her parents and uncle. I really loved how Ruby continued to roll with the punches as each hit came – some worse than others. When Cyntag and Ruby finally overcame the worse hurtle that should have torn them apart, I knew that nothing would be able to drive them apart except death. Cyntag and Ruby’s journey to right the wrongs that were done by a totally unexpected source and to fulfill the love that blossomed between them is a fantastic start to a new and exciting series. I really can’t wait to open up the second book in Ms. Rush’s engaging world. Dragon Awakened is a rough and tumble story filled with passion, humor, and suspense that makes it a page-turner from start to finish. I have a feeling that this is going to be a keeper series for sure.

This book was reviewed by Jo for Joyfully Reviewed (JR), and was provided by the publisher/author at no cost to JR for the purpose of being reviewed.

[Ni_kii · Rating 5 out of 5]

FTC : I was approached to do this review by the publisher. I was not paid for it and have given my fair and honest opinion.

Well, this book was unexpected. A tale of secrets and intrigue, this book was a fabulously magical romp that kept me engrossed from start to finish.

The hidden is a world full of magical creatures, unseen to the mortal inhabitants of the world. Once "awakened" to this world, you can never go back to the life you know but you may never reveal it's existence either.

Ruby knew nothing about her Dragon heritage until the murder of her Uncle. Still grieving the lost of the only parental figure she has ever known, she then has to deal with this whole new set of creatures and rules. I felt so sorry for her. She also has to deal with the incredibly grumpy, yet sexy, Cyn. He both attracts her and annoys the shit out of her (a combustible combination all romance readers are familiar with) but no matter how close they get he insists on keeping her at arms length whilst he prepares her for the dangers ahead. It frustrates her in an already frustrating situation but I was overall incredibly impressed with the way she deals with it all. The bombshells keep dropping for her but she attempts to deal with them all in a way I know I never could. She was pretty kickass.

Cyn is a man with guilt. A an ex member of the guard, he was responsible for executing hidden inhabitants who broke the law. He believed that every person he had to execute was guilty, and he followed orders without question, until it came to the job where he was ordered to execute a much younger Ruby and her parents. He found he couldn't quite live with the thought of executing a child and instead quit and became her secret protector. Then she turns up on his doorstep and turns his world inside out. Gone is the innocent child that he spared and in her place is a sexy, kick-ass female who tests his patience and his resolve. I enjoyed watching him struggle with his lust towards her (I know, I'm a sadist) and watch him try to fit her into his very neat world. He was completely befuddled by her and it was so damn cute!

The sexual tension between them made the book for me but I have to say that the world building was incredibly impressive too. It felt very Harry Potter-like and I adored it, completely lost in the magic of it all. The suspense was interwoven within the magical world of the Hidden and it kept me guessing all the way through. I loved it!

If you like tales of Myth and Magic and prefer your heroines Kick-ass, this is one to try!

[Nikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first full length novel in The Hidden series, however there have previously been two novellas that introduced readers to this unique world of dragons and other magical beings Jaime Rush has created.

Ruby has just witnessed her uncles murder at the hands of what she can only describe as magical lightning and her chance of getting to the bottom of everything lies in the hands of the man whose name her uncle muttered on his dying breath. Cyntag. With nothing else to go on except for a niggling feeling that her whole world has been a lie she sets off to find the man who may have had a hand in her uncles death.

Cyntag had a hand in a lot more than what Ruby suspects but he did not kill her uncle and he been her sworn protector for years. His dragon nature calls to a part of her she doesn’t understand but will soon get an up close and personal view of as Cyntag prepares to awaken her own dragon who has been lying dormant inside her all along. He feels he is beyond any hope of feeling because of the horrible deeds he’s done over his many years, including being the person who took Ruby’s parents from her making her an orphan when she was a child. He craves forgiveness and retribution but finds himself unable to ask for either.

This world Jaime has created is lush with opportunities and depth that I hope she utilizes as this series progresses. I enjoyed the novellas previously but thought this one moved a bit slow and felt more like an urban fantasy than a paranormal romance. There was so much going on with the lore and world building that I think the romance aspect got a bit cheated. While I found the world to be intriguing I wanted a bit more heat where Cyn and Ruby were concerned. I figured since we had already been thoroughly introduced to the world that this one would move a bit more smoothly.

As Ruby awakens to her true nature there is plenty of dragon action. I have a soft spot for everything dragon and this one definitely fed my guilty pleasure. I enjoyed watching Ruby learn to control her dragon and acknowledge Cyn’s dragon as a possible mate. The action gave their dragons a chance to play and it made for some good reading. The ending was a bit abrupt and I felt there wasn’t much closure for the reader as far as the relationship of Cyn and Ruby was concerned. It felt rushed.

I will come back to this series to see just where the authors takes us. I hope for a bit more heat in future books along with the continuation of this world building.

I give Dragon Awakened by Jaime Rush 3 stars!

[Shauni · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book

Dragon Awakened is Book One of author Jamie Rush's exciting new series, The Hidden. She has teased us with two novellas prior to this, but Dragon Awakened really gets things moving.

There is an entire community of supernatural beings living right along side regular every day humans. Dragons and Angels and Dueces (a kind of witch/warlock/wizard) oh my.

Ruby Salazar, was orphaned at the age of seven. Raised by her "uncle" she has no clue of the extra things going on in the world around her. That is until she walks in on her dying uncle and has to fight this strange magical or by thing. After escaping the house, Ruby is out for blood and she has one name to go on. So armed with her limited knowledge and a book a fairytales, aptly named The Book of the Hidden. Ruby sets off to get her revenge. Only to find out that there is a lit more going on than she knows about. Starting with the fact that she's a Dragon.

Cyntag Valeron, spent his entire life in service to his people. Having risen to the very top of the guard he was committed to doing what needed to be done. That is until his mission requires he kill everyone on a certain boat. What he didn't know was the fact that one of those "anyone's" was a seven year old girl. Saving her instead he becomes her sworn protector. Fifteen years later she is on his doorstep wanting to kill him, but for the wrong murder. Determined to teach her all about their world he finds himself falling deeper and deeper under her spell. Now if he can keep her alive until she discovers just who he did kill. Then he knows she might not kill him but she will be taking his heart with
Her when she leaves.

There was a lot of excitement going on throughout this book. Multiple villains and a constant sensual pull. It was fast and furious but sometimes I found it a little too much.

There is also the fact that the hero of the book murdered the heroine's parents. Something I find hard to forgive. This is addressed and I know there were extenuating circumstances but I honestly don't think any rational person could be this forgiving. That entire storyline kind of ruined the rest for me. Which is really sad because this book has a lot to offer.

A complex story of vengeance, forgiveness and justice.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of Dragon Awakened, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on December 17, 2013

[Stacy Sabala · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review-Dragon Awakened by Jaime Rush

In the next book of The Hidden Series, Ruby’s parents died fifteen years ago in a boating accident leaving her as the only survivor. She is left to go live with her uncle Monchief. Now, She is twenty- four and owns The Yard where classic and antique items are restored. Her business partner works on scrap art.
One day she gets an urgent call from her uncle and she immediately goes to him. She walks into an unbelievable situation. Her uncle has an energy spear like object running threw his body holding him to the wall. He frantically orders her to leave so they don’t see her. Ruby stares in complete shock. She has no idea what is happening. The spear turns into an orb then precedes to try to trap her as it burns down the house.
Full of grief after what happens to her uncle and needing answers, she ends up at a dojo looking for a man named Cyntag. He knew her uncle and she believes he may have killed him. Their first encounter doesn’t go the way she wants. In fact she learns some shocking things about her family and herself. Cyntag is her sworn protector and her teacher in a world full of dragons and magick.
Ruby doesn’t know what to believe and doesn’t want anything to do with this new world taking over her life. However she has no choice. Those from the past are planning to dispose of her and Cyntag. There is a prophesy revealing how she thwarts evil plans. Cyntag has his work cut out for him as he fights his feelings and his dragon when it comes to Ruby. He knows when she learns the truth of that night long ago all will be lost. He is determined to find who is after her before the truth destroys what protection he is trying to give.
This book was full of intrigue and secrets. The reader knows who Ruby is from the beginning. Ruby’s story is tragic losing her parents, but what makes for an exciting element is she has no idea what really happened. She is in the dark as to who and what her parents really were and what that makes her. Now she is learning who she really is from Cyntag. Her shock and denial is tangible being felt by the reader. It adds another element to the storyline. The paranormal theme is the main one, yet Ruby’s story adds a more human twist to the mix. She is human in the beginning, or so she thought. The cast of characters fascinated me and some I’ve read from other books by this author which I like when older characters are revisited. It was a great read and I give it 4 out of 5.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was received free from Goodreads First Reads.

I started this series on book two (2) but it only made me that more anxious to read this first book. It was definitely worth it to come back to the beginning and get even more information on these fantastic individuals. The story pulled me in right from the start and I was hard pressed to stop reading, even to work, which made my day great. The characters were marvelously fleshed out as individuals and made them so real that you could not help but be drawn to them. The banter and interplay between them as they move through their days and nights is natural and affords a glimpse into who they are. The myths behind their origin is handled in a way that makes it logical and possible to have happened just as stated, particularly since it involves known locations.

Ruby Salazaar is an orphan who has been raised by her uncle since her parents deaths when she was nine years old. What she never knew was that her parents did not just die in a boating accident but were assassinated and she should have died with them. Now 15 years later everything is about to come to a head and Ruby does not know that she is the link that must be taken out. Her first hint that her world is not what it seems is the murder of her uncle and the name he says with his dying breath, Cyntag.

Cyntag Valeron was a Vega in the Guard and highly regarded but he quit that life 15 years ago after he loss faith in those in charge. Cyn is a Crescent dragon and now runs a dojo where he instructs both mundanes and other Crescents in martial arts. He is more than surprised when the girl who he has sworn to protect shows up with the idea of killing him for the death of her uncle. He does know that she is in danger but convinces her it is not from him. Together they look for the killer and in the process find that an attraction is growing between them, that is something Cyntag does not want to happen.

I love the world of the Crescents, the myths that surround them are rich and steeped in mystery. I love the characters who are all strong whether male or female and always exhibit honor and integrity. The bad guys even have their own brand of twisted honor and loyalty. This is a riveting, hot piece of writing that always entertains and makes you want more. I know I will be reading everything that comes my way about them. I say read it and all to follow, you will not be disappointed!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary from Goodreads:

"Ruby Salazaar wants answers…and revenge. Her uncle has just been murdered before her eyes and the name he utters with his final breath—Cyntag—leads Ruby into a world beyond her wildest imaginings. She soon learns that the dark, sexy Cyntag Valeron knows more about her than she does herself."

My Thoughts:

Dragon Awakened is one of those books that I wanted to read based on the premise alone. Dragon shapeshifters? Hell yeah! I've only read a few books featuring dragons and they really worked for me so I couldn't resist jumping at the chance to read this. I'm glad that I did because this book was actually really good.

This book jumped into the action from the very beginning and didn't let up until the last page. It made for an intense reading experience because everything happens so fast that I just couldn't keep up. I loved it! I read this book in a matter of days because it was just so easy to keep going and I didn't want to set it down. Ruby is a pretty cool main character. She takes everything new that she is learning about this new world of hers with a healthy dose of suspicion and resistance...but she also adjusts to in a manner that came across realistically. Well, as realistically as can be when you are talking dragon shapeshifters. LOL! I also really appreciated the fact that it took time for her to fully trust Cyntag. She didn't just fall into his arms and do whatever he said. She thought for herself and acted based on her own instincts. You don't always see that in some books in this genre.

Overall, I ended up really enjoying this one. If I had any complaints it would be that I was surprised to hear that the second book in this series will be about new characters. I actually would like to read more about Ruby and Cyntag because I feel like we just grazed the surface on them as a couple. But hopefully the next book will also involve them a little bit. I'm definitely eager to continue on with this series, and am looking forward to reading more by this author. If you are a fan of paranormal romance or even urban fantasy then I would definitely give this book a try. For me it was easily a good read bordering on very good. Recommended!

Bottom Line: A gripping beginning to this paranormal romance series, and one that I had a hard time setting down!

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book from the publisher for review. Thoughts on it are my own.

[Shiran · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

A nice start to the brand new series from one of my all time favourite authors. Dragon Awakened is filled with magic, mystery and interesting creatures. I really enjoyed learning about the world of The Hidden and all that comes with it. Rush has a very distinctive style and I could feel it with every word. She sucks you into her fantasy world and really makes you a part of it. I love how we get snippets of moments in other characters POV, it sucks us more into the mystery making you really want to know what's going to happen next.

I really liked Cyn, he's a sexy, alpha male that you want to keep and play with. I liked how he lived his life through logic and fought hard to keep back his emotion, and then when he couldn't do it any more, he became a man worth loving. Ruby was a well written character. I loved how her journey unravelled and how she didn't just accept what she was being told. I also liked the way she interacted with Cyn, from love to anger, every moment was riveting and emotional.

I loved the mystical characters, the Elementals, Deuces (Wizards), Dragons and demons were all fascinating and I'm really eager to read more about them. I'm especially eager to read more about the Caidos, the fallen angel creatures. I like that Rush began the series with the Dragons because it can be quite hard to get into characters that shift into something unusual but she brought the characters to life well and made the catalysing (changing) parts smooth and comfortable to read about.

One of the things I felt this book missed was more side characters, or more interaction with them. We got slight glimpses of some of Cyn's allies and Ruby's co-workers but for some reason I felt like both Cyn and Ruby didn't really have any friends. Their lives felt almost empty to me and it makes me wonder how the series is going to progress, though I have full faith in Rush's storytelling ability. I also felt like we didn't get Cyn's whole story. He kept on referencing a pain from a loss and it sounded like it might have been a woman he once loved, and we never really got a full explanation of why he didn't want to feel, the book starts with him looking forward to a rush, some emotion but we never find out why.

Having said that I enjoyed the book and really like the essence of the series. I'm eager to read the next one and learn more about the characters and world of The Hidden.

[Lyndi W. · Rating 3 out of 5]

So, the first half was a little difficult to stomach because Ruby is TSTL and I honestly kept expecting her to die. She should have died. A lot.

Newly awakened dragon? Of course she can suddenly handle four demons intent on tearing her to shreds. Ignoring the fact that she doesn't even believe she's a dragon. Just attacked by invisible demons? Of course she should run home instead of following the experienced and knowledgeable dragon to a safe place. Uncle's dying words are Cyn's name so he must be the killer! Oh, but he didn't. But then she sees her grandpa in town, so he must be the killer! Oh, but he's not. I found Ruby's attitude and tendency to jump to conclusions, in addition to her overconfidence, absolutely deplorable. I actually continued reading just so I could write a ranty review about how much I hated her.

But then I got to the halfway mark (or so) and Ruby was much better. She still copped a bit of an attitude and made poor choices, but she was definitely more tolerable. So in the end, I kinda liked her a little bit. But only a little bit.

Cyn was scrumptious and I felt so bad for him, the way he struggled with his past and ennui. I really enjoyed watching him "awaken" with Ruby and his take charge attitude was deliciously alpha. I understood him much more than I understood Ruby.

The plot was interesting, though I'm still not sure what all the various dragon and magickal stuff means. The world building was a bit of an info dump towards the beginning and my hatred of Ruby is much more memorable than the various sects of magickal beings. I could have used a graph or chart, for sure. But with all the demon attacks and magickal warfare throughout the rest of the book, the climax fell a bit flat. I mean... I can't even describe a teensy bit of it without spoiling it, but it basically all boils down to popping a balloon slowly instead of quickly. *dumbfounded* That's it?! THAT'S IT?! Ugh, that's fucking it. Kinda disappointing, to be honest.

Definitely interested in seeing Kade's story, which is next in the series. I figured Grayson's story would be the third, as it's about an angel and Grayson is the angel we're introduced to in this story, but apparently it's about some other dude. Definitely going to track down 0.5 and 0.6 in this series.

[Μαρία Γεωργοπούλου · Rating 4 out of 5]

**e-ARC PROVIDED BY GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING VIA NETGALLEY**

You can see my review also here : http://loveandlivetoread.wordpress.co...

A very promising start to a new paranormal romance series by Jaime Rush! I have to say that I haven’t read anything from this author before but after that I will definitely read more! With a very unique world-building and very interesting characters, Jamie Rush wrote a great story that kept my interesting from the very beginning until the end.

The world-building isn’t easy to understand it at the beginning. There is magick (yes, with k), the Deuces (magickal people), dragon shifters, demons etc. Although, it had a whole new vocabulary like many new paranormal romance series, after the first chapters I didn’t have any problem and I enjoyed the story very much.

Ruby lives a normal life with her uncle after the death of her parents many years ago. She doesn’t know her true nature and when her uncle dies also, she learns what she truly is: a dragon shifter. Soon, she finds Cyntag, her mentor who is another old dragon shifter. But he is something more and when she learns the truth it’s not easy for her or him.

I liked Ruby. She’s not afraid easily and she’s determined to do the right thing. She’s been through a lot and this story is a proof that not even the happiness comes easy to her. She had to make a very difficult decision and I admit that I don’t believe that I would have the strength to act like her.

Cyntag is not an easy man. Or dragon. He spent many years without feeling until a certain situation changed his life. Now, after many years he has to deal with the consequences of his past actions. He’s lethal and strong and he will tell the truth no matter what. I liked him because he’s very honest. He isn’t the kind of man that he’ll say what someone wants to hear and I respect him for that.

So, this book has a very good plot, great world-building and very interesting characterization. My only complaint is that some scenes, especially at the beginning seemed kind of hastily written and I would love more details. Nevertheless, this was a great read and I recommend it to all the fans of this genre!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dragon awakened book 1 in The Hidden Series
By Jamie Rush
Genre paranormal/urban fantasy
Rating 4 stars
Can be standalone but good enough to intrigue readers to book 2 InThe Hidden Series which is Magic Possessed


~This is my first dragon type book and my first read of author Jamie Rush. I must first say a big wow to her imagination! I couldn't even think of writing a book with such detail and magnificent storyline. There are no typos in this book a big plus!
~Review without being a spoiler. Ruby's (one of the main characters) uncle who raised her when her parents were murdered was killed by an orb. She thinks she is literally going crazy when she sees it.She wants revenge and she thinks his killer is the sexy man/dragon Cyntag also called Cyn or sin because he is sexy as sin! Only he's not her uncles killer.He is a killer but not his. She arrives at his studio to kill him. She is told by Cyntag he is her sworn protector and he is shocked Ruby knows nothing of the dragon world and he must awaken her. I must say that was very interesting the awakening part of book :-) let's just say hormones are peaked. She realizes from her uncles book of stories and her grandfather who has prophecies that it is her and Cyn who are meant to save the crescents which is what they are called in the book. Numerous things happen throughout to substain the reader and not have it drag as it was a bit slow in early chapters. It's a book about love, trust, forgiveness and redemption. It can be read as standalone but is good enough to want you to read more. The next book in series is magic possessed. It's a book I highly recommend to readers getting into urban fantasy. I enjoyed it overall. This was a book won as a first reads. I will also be reading more if this author now being introduced to her storytelling!

[Gretchn_red · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this in the condo we rented at the beach. It was meh. The dragon thing was cool, but the characters were not very...well, anything. I didn't care that much for any of them, and the ending was a real let down as far as suspense goes. I mean there is a battle with a secondary character that is more strenuous and more involved that the one with the cartoony master villain. Good enough to pass the time, but not at all hard to put down when I needed to. I finished yesterday and can't even remember both main characters names, so I am sure I will forget about it in a couple of days.

I have to add....this is the cheesiest cover ever. I mean the guy's stance is weird, and the tattoo? C'mon. He is supposed to have this great tattoo, and this is what they give him? I feel more passion about the wrongness of the cover than I did about the story. I guess that tells you all you really need to know.

[Mel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit, I am a sucker for all things dragon. *swoons* When I found out that one of my favorite authors, Jaime Rush, was writing a paranormal romance series featuring dragons I squeed like the fangirl I am. Really it's a win-win for me.

I am a HUGE fan of Ms. Rush's Offspring series. It ranks up there in the top ten best series ever for me and that's saying something because I read a lot. You never know what you're going to get when a beloved author starts writing in a new world but the prequel novellas (Dragon Mine and Dragon Rising) for The Hidden trilogy were awesome so I was beyond stoked for Dragon Awakened. Sadly I didn't like it as much as I'd hoped I would and honestly I'm not sure why.

Dragon Awakened had everything that usually works in paranormal romance for me; super hot dragon hero, kick ass heroine, fast-paced action, unique world building, and a little smexy time thrown in. So what didn't work? The difference in a 3 and 4 star rating really fell on the ending of the book. I felt it was a bit rushed and predictable and I wanted more. I really felt like Ruby and Cyntag's story wasn't finished. That being said, the ending would have been perfection if this were an urban fantasy series and book two, Magic Possessed, picked up where Dragon Awakened left off. Unfortunately, that isn't the case.

Dragon Awakened had great character development and the world is truly unique. I look forward to learning more about this world and seeing what direction The Hidden is going as there is loads-and-loads of potential. I'm just sad that Cyntag and Ruby's story is over. I really, really liked them and wanted more about Ruby's destiny than what I got.

*eARC PROVIDED BY GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING (FOREVER) VIA NETGALLEY*

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Setting: the Yard – junk yard, restoration yard;

Theme:

Characters:
Cyntag Valeron: ex Guard (assassin); dragon shifter; 15 years earlier, sent to kill everyone on a yacht; killed the woman/mother dragon… and went after human husband/father, who was trying to get his young daughter to safety… he killed the husband, but could not kill the child… taking her to her uncle, and then quitting the Guard… knew someday he would be back in her life;

Ruby Salazar: raised in the yard – a genius with all engines; gets a message to come to her uncle – gets there, the house is on fire, she tries to get to uncle, whose last words were Cyn, and a fireball is following her… she manages to defeat it… and gets out… and tracks down Cyn…

Uncle Moncrief: adopted Ruby when her parents were killed when she was a child (about 5 years old); he masks her nature, to protect her (as her grandfather made a prophecy that predicted she would stop something – and some wanted that something – to take over the supernaturals)…

Purcell: making a bargain with a god, he develops an anti-supernatural machine, to be energized th a sun flare… and will kill most of the supernaturals in the area, except a few ‘marked ones’… it was based on ruby’s father’s invention, who when he figured out that it would be used for evil, destroyed his research and escaped… only to be killed by Guard Cyntag…

Summary:
Cyntag introduces Ruby to her dragon side, helping her to gain control of it… of course it is a sensual, sexual experience, and they quickly find that they are meant for one another… they manage to thwart Purcell… using the predictions of her grandfather to know how to disarm the machine, not blow it up… ta daaaa

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, this book really takes off from page 1 without letting up! I've read one of the short stories that takes place before these books (I think), but even that didn't prepare me for diving right into this book. You get thrown head first into the deep end of this new world of the hidden -- where dragons and magicians are real things.

Raised on fairy tale stories by her uncle, Ruby never knew anything was different about her, other than her orphan status. When she watches something unexplainable murder her Uncle, Ruby's world starts to tilt on its axis. Chasing down leads on his Uncle's murderer drags her to Cyntag. Years previous, Cyntag was just going about his duties as a sanctioned assassin when he found the child of his victims still alive in a boat. Since then (and after quitting his job) he's been duty sworn to protect her. But can it actually be possible for a romance to happen between a woman and her parent's killer? I was skeptical too, but this book completely sold me on it.

The romance is really wonderfully done, with just the right amount of sizzling scenes thrown in to keep the dragon's sensuality just right. The fighting and training made for some really hot story. I'm so sad that the book came to such an abrupt end -- I want more! There was some resolution, but I guess I should've waited until I had the whole trilogy before starting the first one. Now I've got to worry and wonder about these characters that I've grown to love.