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The Raek Riders Series #2
A Warrior at Heart
In this gripping sequel to Iron-Bound Flames, Meera faces an obstacle even more powerful than an iron-fisted love.
She did it—she freed Shael and his raek and landed herself alone in a strange land in the process. Now, Shael offers to take her, and Meera is thrust into a society in which humans are detested and magic is commonplace.
Finding her new home—and host—more seductive than she could have ever anticipated, Meera envisions a future for herself among the raek riders. However, after a devastating rejection she realizes she has been distracted—she has forgotten what really matters to her and forsaken her only her father.
Determined to rescue her father from his brutal forced service to the king, Meera strikes out on her own. But she soon learns that things—and forests—are not always as they appear and that only a warrior at heart can weather the harshest of storms. Meera may or may not find her father, but what—or who—she does find is sure to change her … forever.
She did it—she freed Shael and his raek and landed herself alone in a strange land in the process. Now, Shael offers to take her, and Meera is thrust into a society in which humans are detested and magic is commonplace.
Finding her new home—and host—more seductive than she could have ever anticipated, Meera envisions a future for herself among the raek riders. However, after a devastating rejection she realizes she has been distracted—she has forgotten what really matters to her and forsaken her only her father.
Determined to rescue her father from his brutal forced service to the king, Meera strikes out on her own. But she soon learns that things—and forests—are not always as they appear and that only a warrior at heart can weather the harshest of storms. Meera may or may not find her father, but what—or who—she does find is sure to change her … forever.
- GenresFantasy
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2024
30 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Melanie K. Moschella
5 books21 followersMelanie is an escapist reader and writer living in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire. Her two true passions are parenting and writing—both of which require stamina and creativity, but only one of which allows her to sit down. Despite Melanie’s overpriced English degree from an overrated university, she attributes her debut work, The Raek Riders Series, to the isolation of new motherhood—after all, what could make a person crave adventure and romance more than dirty diapers?
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 12, 2024
A Warrior at Heart by Melanie K Moschella is the second in the Raek Riders series. If you have not yet read Iron-Bound Flames, please give it a try as this is building to be a blisteringly good series (and what I am really excited about, is that the whole series is going to be released at once on March 19 on kindle but I think I will do the punt and buy the ppbs as this collection is a keeper if the first two books are anything to go by)
See, this is how invested I am in this storyline already, gripped from book one and by eckers the cliffhangers! I digress. Have you read book one or at least the reviews? Then I shall continue
Meeera my lovely, you are an absolute boss! Book two is a stage setting, a reconciliation of book one, Meera really grows as a character in this book and her strength and tenacity is portrayed beautifully as she explores her new world (at the same time is some brilliant world-building, props to that!) Meera has to look at herself in a brutally honest way and this is what really makes her shine as an fmcfor me, there is no flashiness, no pretence, just a character with depth and integrity and I am absolutely here for it
This book can be read as a standalone, but it is truly a great follow-on frrom the first book and leaves you hungry, not just peckish, but starving for your next bite and I will absolutely be getting the set as soon as it comes out (the covers are fantastic too, but that is by the by) A flipping win and cannot wait to read more!
Thank you to Netgalley, Smith Publicity and the outstanding author Melanie K Moschella for this glorious ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
#AWarrioratHeart #NetGalley @raekriders
See, this is how invested I am in this storyline already, gripped from book one and by eckers the cliffhangers! I digress. Have you read book one or at least the reviews? Then I shall continue
Meeera my lovely, you are an absolute boss! Book two is a stage setting, a reconciliation of book one, Meera really grows as a character in this book and her strength and tenacity is portrayed beautifully as she explores her new world (at the same time is some brilliant world-building, props to that!) Meera has to look at herself in a brutally honest way and this is what really makes her shine as an fmcfor me, there is no flashiness, no pretence, just a character with depth and integrity and I am absolutely here for it
This book can be read as a standalone, but it is truly a great follow-on frrom the first book and leaves you hungry, not just peckish, but starving for your next bite and I will absolutely be getting the set as soon as it comes out (the covers are fantastic too, but that is by the by) A flipping win and cannot wait to read more!
Thank you to Netgalley, Smith Publicity and the outstanding author Melanie K Moschella for this glorious ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
#AWarrioratHeart #NetGalley @raekriders
March 10, 2024
Meera really grows in this book. I enjoyed her journey immensely. It was interesting seeing the two points of view, between Shael and Meera. It gave some good perspective and needed growth between the two characters.. The side characters were well written and fleshed out, having distinct personalities that stood on their own. I really liked how she grew closer to the knell and adopted some of their ways. Her journey at t he end showed her strength and determination and it was recognized by the most unlikely of sources! I am pleased to know that this is a series and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Having Shael and Meera's relationship stumble, grow and then stumble again was very realistic, Instead of instantly falling in love, there is struggle that lent veracity to the story. I enjoyed reading about the kingdom, the knell and the human community. It was all well-written, very visual and you can picture the scenery quite easily.
Meera is a strong, spirited protagonist that has only grown in leaps and bounds since her first showing. I am eager to see what is going to happen next in her journey.
Having Shael and Meera's relationship stumble, grow and then stumble again was very realistic, Instead of instantly falling in love, there is struggle that lent veracity to the story. I enjoyed reading about the kingdom, the knell and the human community. It was all well-written, very visual and you can picture the scenery quite easily.
Meera is a strong, spirited protagonist that has only grown in leaps and bounds since her first showing. I am eager to see what is going to happen next in her journey.
March 9, 2024
After reading an ARC of Iron-Bound Flames from #NetGalley, I was lucky enough to be gifted with the chance to read the second novel in the Raeken Series: "A Warrior at Heart". Thank you, Smith Publicity, Melanie Moschella and Net Galley for this opportunity!
I absolutely adored the first book. I gave it a 5* review, because I could not put it down. This second one was the same, although the storyline is drastically different.
In the series starter, there are a lot of scenes that are dark or gruesome (violence on page) but still balanced with light-heartedness and sheer determination and self-reflection from our FMC, Meera. This second book still contains some violence, but feels like a nice breather between the first, and what I am anticipating will happen in the following three books.
This book takes a pause on progressing what I consider to be the primary conflict of the series. It doesn't go away - but instead is almost forgotten about, since our FMC is swept up in experiencing a world she has only read about on paper. This book is filled with her wonder, delight and struggles with culture shock in a new kingdom. There are still some darker themes, such as racism that are explored in this novel, but it does focus more on the emotional abuse rather than steering into physical violence.
This book is more so about world building and character development than it is about progressing the main storyline. It is not, however, a filler novel. It is setting the stage for what is to come. And just like the first novel - it ends on a cliffhanger that perfectly sets up what is to come. So thank you again, Melanie Moschella and her publishers for not making us wait!
I loved this book just as much, if not more so than the first book. Although the first book for me had more tension/conflict, this one just made me happy. The entire read I was filled with excitement for our FMC and starting to understand our MMC. It is overall a fairly short novel (~5 hr predicted timing on my kindle), so even if you are the type to prefer main-plot-progressing storylines, this should not feel like it is dragging on or delaying the story's progression and I feel critical to understanding the world for the future novels.
Once again, 5* from me for The Raeken Series!
I absolutely adored the first book. I gave it a 5* review, because I could not put it down. This second one was the same, although the storyline is drastically different.
In the series starter, there are a lot of scenes that are dark or gruesome (violence on page) but still balanced with light-heartedness and sheer determination and self-reflection from our FMC, Meera. This second book still contains some violence, but feels like a nice breather between the first, and what I am anticipating will happen in the following three books.
This book takes a pause on progressing what I consider to be the primary conflict of the series. It doesn't go away - but instead is almost forgotten about, since our FMC is swept up in experiencing a world she has only read about on paper. This book is filled with her wonder, delight and struggles with culture shock in a new kingdom. There are still some darker themes, such as racism that are explored in this novel, but it does focus more on the emotional abuse rather than steering into physical violence.
This book is more so about world building and character development than it is about progressing the main storyline. It is not, however, a filler novel. It is setting the stage for what is to come. And just like the first novel - it ends on a cliffhanger that perfectly sets up what is to come. So thank you again, Melanie Moschella and her publishers for not making us wait!
I loved this book just as much, if not more so than the first book. Although the first book for me had more tension/conflict, this one just made me happy. The entire read I was filled with excitement for our FMC and starting to understand our MMC. It is overall a fairly short novel (~5 hr predicted timing on my kindle), so even if you are the type to prefer main-plot-progressing storylines, this should not feel like it is dragging on or delaying the story's progression and I feel critical to understanding the world for the future novels.
Once again, 5* from me for The Raeken Series!
September 17, 2024
4.5-Star Review
"A Warrior at Heart” was an incredible follow-up to the first book, keeping me hooked from the first couple of pages. I even dare say that at times it was better than the first, especially with the introduction of a second POV, which added so much depth to the story. This book focused a bit more on love—not just romantic love, but love for yourself, your partner, and your friends. The emotional bonds were so beautifully explored.
Meera and Shael, the main characters, felt even more developed in this installment, and I loved seeing them navigate new environments and challenges. It was refreshing that the plot was distinct from the first book, moving forward rather than rehashing past events. This sense of progression, paired with Melanie K. Moschella’s captivating writing style, kept me glued to the pages—I finished the book in just a couple of days!
One thing that stands out about Moschella’s writing is how enthralling her descriptive passages are. I found myself fully immersed in the world, even during chapters focused more on setting the scene than action.
The only downside for me was the use of the miscommunication trope. While I’m slowly warming up to it, the way it was continuously used in this book did become a bit frustrating. That said, Meera’s strength in dealing with the miscommunication was commendable, and the book didn’t give you an easy, happy resolution—which made the journey feel more authentic.
This book was filled with twists, heartbreak, and tough choices, all of which highlighted Meera’s resilience and strength. She truly stands out as a unique and powerful female lead. The only reason I’m not giving it a full five stars is the overbearing miscommunication trope, but I’ll still eagerly recommend this book (and series) to everyone. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment!
"A Warrior at Heart” was an incredible follow-up to the first book, keeping me hooked from the first couple of pages. I even dare say that at times it was better than the first, especially with the introduction of a second POV, which added so much depth to the story. This book focused a bit more on love—not just romantic love, but love for yourself, your partner, and your friends. The emotional bonds were so beautifully explored.
Meera and Shael, the main characters, felt even more developed in this installment, and I loved seeing them navigate new environments and challenges. It was refreshing that the plot was distinct from the first book, moving forward rather than rehashing past events. This sense of progression, paired with Melanie K. Moschella’s captivating writing style, kept me glued to the pages—I finished the book in just a couple of days!
One thing that stands out about Moschella’s writing is how enthralling her descriptive passages are. I found myself fully immersed in the world, even during chapters focused more on setting the scene than action.
The only downside for me was the use of the miscommunication trope. While I’m slowly warming up to it, the way it was continuously used in this book did become a bit frustrating. That said, Meera’s strength in dealing with the miscommunication was commendable, and the book didn’t give you an easy, happy resolution—which made the journey feel more authentic.
This book was filled with twists, heartbreak, and tough choices, all of which highlighted Meera’s resilience and strength. She truly stands out as a unique and powerful female lead. The only reason I’m not giving it a full five stars is the overbearing miscommunication trope, but I’ll still eagerly recommend this book (and series) to everyone. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment!
March 24, 2024
The second book in the Raek Riders series had so much growth with the characters to the world building that Melanie Moschella navigates in such a real way. If you’re in a reading slump and need some more dragon/magic type of slow-burn series - this is your sign. 🥹
We continue Meera’s story escaping from Terratelle and exploring the world of the knell in Aegorn and Levisade. However, this time we alternate between the POVs of Meera and Shael (half-knell / half human) from the first book. This was such a welcomed change of pace in the second book. The lore we get from Shael and perspective helps create the frustration that is between our two main characters. Had me screaming out loud “kiss already” so many times. 😤🥵😘Enjoying the buildup but it can be frustrating at times since you want Meera to be confident in her choices because she’s already proven herself..
Throughout the book we learn more about the riders code, the magic system that is unraveling more and more about the Raeks. We meet new characters like Kennick, Darreal, Hadjal, Isbaen and others. Of course there is more of Cerun, the Raek we met in the first book who helps understand more of their mysterious background. Meera continues to find her father, Orson, and in this journey she has a fated encounter with a wild Raek who will change the journey of our main FMC throughout the remaining series. The way this ended had me feral - I could not get over the build up to that final scene. Excited to continue on with the rest of the books which are all out now! 😱
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Smith Publicity and amazing author Melanie K. Moschella for this ARC. Thank you for this wonderful story. 😍💜
We continue Meera’s story escaping from Terratelle and exploring the world of the knell in Aegorn and Levisade. However, this time we alternate between the POVs of Meera and Shael (half-knell / half human) from the first book. This was such a welcomed change of pace in the second book. The lore we get from Shael and perspective helps create the frustration that is between our two main characters. Had me screaming out loud “kiss already” so many times. 😤🥵😘Enjoying the buildup but it can be frustrating at times since you want Meera to be confident in her choices because she’s already proven herself..
Throughout the book we learn more about the riders code, the magic system that is unraveling more and more about the Raeks. We meet new characters like Kennick, Darreal, Hadjal, Isbaen and others. Of course there is more of Cerun, the Raek we met in the first book who helps understand more of their mysterious background. Meera continues to find her father, Orson, and in this journey she has a fated encounter with a wild Raek who will change the journey of our main FMC throughout the remaining series. The way this ended had me feral - I could not get over the build up to that final scene. Excited to continue on with the rest of the books which are all out now! 😱
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Smith Publicity and amazing author Melanie K. Moschella for this ARC. Thank you for this wonderful story. 😍💜
March 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Smith Publicity, and Melanie for the opportunity to review the second installment to the Raek Riders series! I am truly honored!!
First, I'd like to say happy publication day! It is a considerable feat to publish a book and releasing a whole series requires the greatest of celebrations and congratulations!
Once again, I have been blown away by this series' world-building and the writing. I absolutely love being able to see the world through the eyes of both Shael and Meera. Being able to see how the events of the first book (which if you haven't read it, you totally should!) were interpreted and processed by both Shael and Meera is so pivotal to their character development, especially Meera, who continues to grow through this book. I think this character development is setting up the characters and the story to be quite the epic tale.
The book feels like a movie in your hands. I could see all of the events clearly playing out. And the side characters, who are well-crafted, really added to that feeling. The descriptive world, community, and characters made for a complete and excellent picture in the form of words on pages.
I cannot wait to see where this series goes.
5/5 stars
First, I'd like to say happy publication day! It is a considerable feat to publish a book and releasing a whole series requires the greatest of celebrations and congratulations!
Once again, I have been blown away by this series' world-building and the writing. I absolutely love being able to see the world through the eyes of both Shael and Meera. Being able to see how the events of the first book (which if you haven't read it, you totally should!) were interpreted and processed by both Shael and Meera is so pivotal to their character development, especially Meera, who continues to grow through this book. I think this character development is setting up the characters and the story to be quite the epic tale.
The book feels like a movie in your hands. I could see all of the events clearly playing out. And the side characters, who are well-crafted, really added to that feeling. The descriptive world, community, and characters made for a complete and excellent picture in the form of words on pages.
I cannot wait to see where this series goes.
5/5 stars
June 4, 2024
I was really excited to read this sequel, after having read the ARC of the first one months ago, and I'm glad to say I like it! The character writing is strong and the narration is consistently compelling, and at no point did I want to put it down.
I'm rating it a bit lower than the first one, though, for what may be personal reason - I read the ARC off Netgalley with no other marketing or expectations, and while the first book in the series is more general fantasy, this one is solidly romantasy. Unfortunately for me, this is not exactly what I wanted out of the series. I remarked on the first one as giving me what no other dragon riding fantasy was giving me because it focused on the dragon (raek)/human relationship moreso than anything else, but this one was the opposite. The raeks were far in the background for most of the book while the rest was 100% romance drama until a long way into the story.
I won't say this is a bad thing at all. If you want romantasy, this would be a great example of it. The characters are well realized, and they managed to pass around the misunderstanding ball without me wanting to punch either of them. High praises! The worldbuilding is consistent without being overbearing.
I just really hope there's more raek stuff in the next one because however much I enjoy the humanoid protagonists, I am here for the creatures. Granted, I'll probably enjoy it well enough either way.
I'm rating it a bit lower than the first one, though, for what may be personal reason - I read the ARC off Netgalley with no other marketing or expectations, and while the first book in the series is more general fantasy, this one is solidly romantasy. Unfortunately for me, this is not exactly what I wanted out of the series. I remarked on the first one as giving me what no other dragon riding fantasy was giving me because it focused on the dragon (raek)/human relationship moreso than anything else, but this one was the opposite. The raeks were far in the background for most of the book while the rest was 100% romance drama until a long way into the story.
I won't say this is a bad thing at all. If you want romantasy, this would be a great example of it. The characters are well realized, and they managed to pass around the misunderstanding ball without me wanting to punch either of them. High praises! The worldbuilding is consistent without being overbearing.
I just really hope there's more raek stuff in the next one because however much I enjoy the humanoid protagonists, I am here for the creatures. Granted, I'll probably enjoy it well enough either way.
March 11, 2024
A warrior at heart will send you spiraling into the world of raek riders and the countries at war. Book two the main character wakes up and starts her journey into her new life in the country she has never been before. Once again the author has given us exceptionally rich characters that are diverse and show true emotion. They have their faults, they grow. They show signs of ptsd and work their way to get past it. I absolutely love the way the author writes their characters. It’s so in depth, and ugh. Give me more. This series is extremely addictive and I will always give 5 stars. I can not wait for the next books to devour.
March 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this second book in the series.
Meera has grown a lot, even if she does still lose sight of herself. However, she has a tenacity and bravery to her that makes her likeable, even to those who don't like humans.
Learning more about the riders and raeken and seeing more of the world building is great. I love the memory keeper, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of this in the third book and learning more of the history. There are some interesting clues dropped in the book to show some directions it may take.
Meera has grown a lot, even if she does still lose sight of herself. However, she has a tenacity and bravery to her that makes her likeable, even to those who don't like humans.
Learning more about the riders and raeken and seeing more of the world building is great. I love the memory keeper, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of this in the third book and learning more of the history. There are some interesting clues dropped in the book to show some directions it may take.
April 13, 2024
I have wasted enough time
On such a pair of emotionally cripp!ed dolts. I remember again why the lovelorn genre bored and disgusted me. The racism (feathered dragons) are magnificent but the Author has left the lovers .ish refers ding each other for far too long. Do yourself a favor, read something else.
On such a pair of emotionally cripp!ed dolts. I remember again why the lovelorn genre bored and disgusted me. The racism (feathered dragons) are magnificent but the Author has left the lovers .ish refers ding each other for far too long. Do yourself a favor, read something else.
April 21, 2024
I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoyed this book and seeing what happened next for Meera and Shael. The growing friendship and tension between them was fun to follow.
April 30, 2024
Cannot get enough!
I am so incredibly invested in these characters, this magic, this romance! RUNNING to Book 3 to devour that one next.
I am so incredibly invested in these characters, this magic, this romance! RUNNING to Book 3 to devour that one next.
May 10, 2024
If it weren't for the fact that my mind drifted off a few times during this book it would be a 5 star. I still would rate it a 4.75, but I don't round up to 5 star.
May 20, 2024
Not sure how everyone isn’t talking about how sick this book is!!! I’m loving this series so much and the way the books all fit together??
Read
July 31, 2024Had to DNF at 25%. There’s more interesting books out there
May 29, 2024
"A Warrior at Heart" by Melanie K Moschella is a spellbinding continuation of the saga introduced in "Iron-Bound Flames."
From the very first page, readers continue their journey into a world where love, magic, and courage intertwine to create an unforgettable adventure.
Moschella's writing effortlessly transports you to a realm where humans and magical beings coexist- but not without tension and conflict. The world-building is vivid and immersive, painting a picture of a society teetering on the brink of change. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and self-discovery resonated strongly with me and are themes that guarantee a good read!
Meera, the resilient protagonist, finds herself navigating this unfamiliar territory. Her journey, filled with challenges and unexpected twists, keeps you enthralled and her evolution from a hesitant outsider to a fierce warrior has you enthusiastically rooting for her.
Another aspect that stood out to me was the depth of the characters and their relationships. I particularly enjoyed getting to delve into the evolving relationship between Meera and Shael after their escape. Their dynamic is a combination of tension and tenderness - a mix that has you captivated as a reader!
While I found myself completely engrossed in the story, I did notice that the pacing was occasionally slow compared to the first (just for my taste!). However, this minor quibble did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book. In fact, I am eagerly continuing with the rest of the series as soon as I can!
In conclusion, "A Warrior at Heart" is a captivating tale of adventure and resilience that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike. The book delivers an enthralling experience that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping read that will transport them to a world of magic and intrigue. I, for one, will be recommending this series to everyone I know!
A massive and heartfelt thank you to the author, Melanie K. Moschella and NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book. This ARC fuels this passion of mine to connect with the book community and I am incredibly grateful.
From the very first page, readers continue their journey into a world where love, magic, and courage intertwine to create an unforgettable adventure.
Moschella's writing effortlessly transports you to a realm where humans and magical beings coexist- but not without tension and conflict. The world-building is vivid and immersive, painting a picture of a society teetering on the brink of change. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and self-discovery resonated strongly with me and are themes that guarantee a good read!
Meera, the resilient protagonist, finds herself navigating this unfamiliar territory. Her journey, filled with challenges and unexpected twists, keeps you enthralled and her evolution from a hesitant outsider to a fierce warrior has you enthusiastically rooting for her.
Another aspect that stood out to me was the depth of the characters and their relationships. I particularly enjoyed getting to delve into the evolving relationship between Meera and Shael after their escape. Their dynamic is a combination of tension and tenderness - a mix that has you captivated as a reader!
While I found myself completely engrossed in the story, I did notice that the pacing was occasionally slow compared to the first (just for my taste!). However, this minor quibble did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book. In fact, I am eagerly continuing with the rest of the series as soon as I can!
In conclusion, "A Warrior at Heart" is a captivating tale of adventure and resilience that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike. The book delivers an enthralling experience that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping read that will transport them to a world of magic and intrigue. I, for one, will be recommending this series to everyone I know!
A massive and heartfelt thank you to the author, Melanie K. Moschella and NetGalley for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book. This ARC fuels this passion of mine to connect with the book community and I am incredibly grateful.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews