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Roar #4
Dragon Riders of Roar
The epic and funny new magical fantasy series set in the world of the bestselling Land of Roar.
Twins Rose and Arthur love visiting their imaginary world of Roar which is hidden inside a folding camp bed in their grandad’s attic. When they can’t get to Roar, Rose writes about it instead, inventing the Dragonlands, a realm where the dragons are ferocious and a clan of witches are rumoured to be rising. She makes up a school for young Dragon Riders and, of course, writes herself as the star pupil.
When Arthur reads Rose’s story he can’t believe he’s been left out. They argue and the story gets shoved deep inside the folding camp bed…where it bursts into life. Now Rose, Arthur and Win must race to the Dragonlands, enrol at Dragon Rider Academy and try to stop to the disaster they have set in motion. But do they have what it takes to become Dragon Riders? And can Arthur survive a term in a school invented by his sister?
If only Rose had written an ending to her story…
Perfect for readers aged 8-12 and fans of Skandar, Percy Jackson and How to Train Your Dragon
Twins Rose and Arthur love visiting their imaginary world of Roar which is hidden inside a folding camp bed in their grandad’s attic. When they can’t get to Roar, Rose writes about it instead, inventing the Dragonlands, a realm where the dragons are ferocious and a clan of witches are rumoured to be rising. She makes up a school for young Dragon Riders and, of course, writes herself as the star pupil.
When Arthur reads Rose’s story he can’t believe he’s been left out. They argue and the story gets shoved deep inside the folding camp bed…where it bursts into life. Now Rose, Arthur and Win must race to the Dragonlands, enrol at Dragon Rider Academy and try to stop to the disaster they have set in motion. But do they have what it takes to become Dragon Riders? And can Arthur survive a term in a school invented by his sister?
If only Rose had written an ending to her story…
Perfect for readers aged 8-12 and fans of Skandar, Percy Jackson and How to Train Your Dragon
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2025
About the author
Jenny McLachlan
60 books313 followersI have always loved reading and I studied English at university just so that I could read a bit more. Next I found my way into secondary teaching and discovered that I loved it too: I got to read more books, show off and hang out with very funny teenagers. What a great job!
Teaching English also encouraged me to write. Soon I had planned and started lots of different stories, but they were all abandoned and shoved to the back of a drawer. Then, one day, the plot for Flirty Dancing came together; Bea’s story was so alive it was like a film running in my head and I knew it was a story I would finish.
Over the next few years, various exciting events distracted me from Flirty Dancing: I got married, travelled the world, was chased by an angry elephant (and a pack of dogs) and I had two babies. While I was sitting on trains, swimming in the Outback and raising two crazy girls, I kept thinking about Bea, and her friends, Betty, Kat and Pearl, until I realised I had planned three more books.
In 2013, after attending the Winchester Writers’ Festival, I plucked up the courage to send Flirty Dancing to Julia Churchill, a brilliant children’s fiction agent at A.M. Heath. With dazzling speed I was then signed by Bloomsbury to write the four books in the series.
Teaching English also encouraged me to write. Soon I had planned and started lots of different stories, but they were all abandoned and shoved to the back of a drawer. Then, one day, the plot for Flirty Dancing came together; Bea’s story was so alive it was like a film running in my head and I knew it was a story I would finish.
Over the next few years, various exciting events distracted me from Flirty Dancing: I got married, travelled the world, was chased by an angry elephant (and a pack of dogs) and I had two babies. While I was sitting on trains, swimming in the Outback and raising two crazy girls, I kept thinking about Bea, and her friends, Betty, Kat and Pearl, until I realised I had planned three more books.
In 2013, after attending the Winchester Writers’ Festival, I plucked up the courage to send Flirty Dancing to Julia Churchill, a brilliant children’s fiction agent at A.M. Heath. With dazzling speed I was then signed by Bloomsbury to write the four books in the series.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 19, 2025
Konečně něco co nezklamalo.
March 22, 2025
I really enjoyed this exciting and gripping book. I love the Roar series!
November 10, 2024
I was completely gutted by the end of #TheLandofRoar trilogy, so when #DragonRidersofRoar showed up in the mail, I wasn’t sure how to feel. But oh wow—this book might actually surpass the original series. I know, it's hard to believe, but it’s true!
While this one is a bit longer than #TheLandofRoar, it’s also more action-packed and features a much richer world with plenty of new magical creatures, including some much bigger dragons. The school setting is such a fun addition; I loved seeing the characters in classes and navigating the school’s mysteries. Arthur’s journey through his classes is full of struggles, but he never gives up. He’s constantly challenged but stays true to his values, which is what makes him such an amazing protagonist.
Speaking of Arthur, I think McLachlan made the best choice by focusing on him as the main character. He’s relatable, with the perfect balance of fear and bravery. His flaws, such as his clumsiness and mischievous moments, make him feel real. He also has these hilarious sarcastic moments that had me cracking up (I totally got him!).
The plot is packed with suspense and surprises, especially when Rose’s story starts coming to life in unexpected ways. I was genuinely freaked out by the villain and the whole idea of changelings, who swap out real people with something else—and you never know who’s really who. It’s creepy in the best way possible!
The story reinforces the idea that McLachlan just keeps getting better and better as a writer. The pacing, the twists, and the world-building are all fantastic.
There’s also a subtle but important message about characters like Arthur, who may seem fearful or unsure at first, but end up showing bravery in unexpected ways. It’s a lesson I think young readers can really relate to—sometimes, even when you feel like you’re the “coward,” you might just have the most fire inside you.
While this one is a bit longer than #TheLandofRoar, it’s also more action-packed and features a much richer world with plenty of new magical creatures, including some much bigger dragons. The school setting is such a fun addition; I loved seeing the characters in classes and navigating the school’s mysteries. Arthur’s journey through his classes is full of struggles, but he never gives up. He’s constantly challenged but stays true to his values, which is what makes him such an amazing protagonist.
Speaking of Arthur, I think McLachlan made the best choice by focusing on him as the main character. He’s relatable, with the perfect balance of fear and bravery. His flaws, such as his clumsiness and mischievous moments, make him feel real. He also has these hilarious sarcastic moments that had me cracking up (I totally got him!).
The plot is packed with suspense and surprises, especially when Rose’s story starts coming to life in unexpected ways. I was genuinely freaked out by the villain and the whole idea of changelings, who swap out real people with something else—and you never know who’s really who. It’s creepy in the best way possible!
The story reinforces the idea that McLachlan just keeps getting better and better as a writer. The pacing, the twists, and the world-building are all fantastic.
There’s also a subtle but important message about characters like Arthur, who may seem fearful or unsure at first, but end up showing bravery in unexpected ways. It’s a lesson I think young readers can really relate to—sometimes, even when you feel like you’re the “coward,” you might just have the most fire inside you.
March 12, 2025
March 2025: Dragon Riders of Roar
Twins Arthur and Rose were supposed to return to Roar for their cruise trip with their friends Win and Mitch. However, a strange event occurred when Mitch suddenly went missing.
They soon discovered that everything was happening according to what Rose had written in her yellow book. The twins had to search for Mitch at the Dragon Riders Academy (DRAc).
Their journey to DRAc ultimately led them to become new students there. DRAc seemed like an exciting place to study, with awesome subjects offered as well.
They eventually learned that Jago Skua, the Witch King, was still alive and had kidnapped their baby cousin, Lila. The thrilling journey to the north, where bigger, angrier dragons lie, begins to find the hiding place of Jago Skua.
🔥🔥
What an experience! I had to brace myself to read about scaly dragons (which look like reptiles, and I'm not particularly fond of them), but this book completely hooked me with its intriguing and heart-racing plots. You might notice that the cover is different from the published version because this is an uncorrected proof copy that I received earlier but just finished today—sorry about the delay!
There's so much to discuss in this book, especially since this is the fourth instalment in the series. I can tell that Jenny has unleashed her boundless imagination and creativity in this writing.
My favourite character has to be Arthur, the narrator himself. He thinks logically, possesses a great sense of humour, and shows true brotherly spirit when he bravely confronts Jago Skua in the fight scenes.
It's an enjoyable read, and it definitely makes me want to explore the previous books as well. Be sure to check out this book and the entire Roar series at your local bookstores. Thank you, @definitelybookskids for this copy!
Twins Arthur and Rose were supposed to return to Roar for their cruise trip with their friends Win and Mitch. However, a strange event occurred when Mitch suddenly went missing.
They soon discovered that everything was happening according to what Rose had written in her yellow book. The twins had to search for Mitch at the Dragon Riders Academy (DRAc).
Their journey to DRAc ultimately led them to become new students there. DRAc seemed like an exciting place to study, with awesome subjects offered as well.
They eventually learned that Jago Skua, the Witch King, was still alive and had kidnapped their baby cousin, Lila. The thrilling journey to the north, where bigger, angrier dragons lie, begins to find the hiding place of Jago Skua.
🔥🔥
What an experience! I had to brace myself to read about scaly dragons (which look like reptiles, and I'm not particularly fond of them), but this book completely hooked me with its intriguing and heart-racing plots. You might notice that the cover is different from the published version because this is an uncorrected proof copy that I received earlier but just finished today—sorry about the delay!
There's so much to discuss in this book, especially since this is the fourth instalment in the series. I can tell that Jenny has unleashed her boundless imagination and creativity in this writing.
My favourite character has to be Arthur, the narrator himself. He thinks logically, possesses a great sense of humour, and shows true brotherly spirit when he bravely confronts Jago Skua in the fight scenes.
It's an enjoyable read, and it definitely makes me want to explore the previous books as well. Be sure to check out this book and the entire Roar series at your local bookstores. Thank you, @definitelybookskids for this copy!
February 11, 2025
I received an eARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
I was so excited to learn that there was another book coming in the Roar series and DRAGON RIDERS OF ROAR does not disappoint.
This instalment brings magical schools into the world of Roar, complete with deadly trials and something sinister happening under the surface. I loved how Rose invented it to match the typical sort of school in these stories - different houses, challenges - and that it rather backfires. Arthur points out how little practice they get before challenges and so on. It was a nice way to both celebrate and pick holes in a beloved fantasy trope.
This school is Rose's invention, so it's designed around her. She's special and popular and clever, and Arthur is not. As a critique of self inserts and imagining yourself into fiction, it was a lot of fun but it was also nice to play with the chosen one and underdog tropes too.
The invention of the magic school also allows the world of Roar to expand. We've spent three books in the same land so know it well, and the story of the characters there have played themselves out (it's why initially there were only three books.) This new addition, which fits perfectly into the lore of the twins creating the magical world, gives the series new space for adventures.
I hope we get more tales after this one - I really loved getting to return.
I was so excited to learn that there was another book coming in the Roar series and DRAGON RIDERS OF ROAR does not disappoint.
This instalment brings magical schools into the world of Roar, complete with deadly trials and something sinister happening under the surface. I loved how Rose invented it to match the typical sort of school in these stories - different houses, challenges - and that it rather backfires. Arthur points out how little practice they get before challenges and so on. It was a nice way to both celebrate and pick holes in a beloved fantasy trope.
This school is Rose's invention, so it's designed around her. She's special and popular and clever, and Arthur is not. As a critique of self inserts and imagining yourself into fiction, it was a lot of fun but it was also nice to play with the chosen one and underdog tropes too.
The invention of the magic school also allows the world of Roar to expand. We've spent three books in the same land so know it well, and the story of the characters there have played themselves out (it's why initially there were only three books.) This new addition, which fits perfectly into the lore of the twins creating the magical world, gives the series new space for adventures.
I hope we get more tales after this one - I really loved getting to return.
July 18, 2026
Good, but sort of turning into HP, and definitely more witchy than the first three. And where was Crowky?! The character with the best character arc is essentially missing from the story.
Rose is still a self-absorbed brat, whom everything seems to revolve around, and who also just ditches Mitch so she can play dragon rider, which seemed unlike her. But I feel like this story is actually showing how problematic it is that she thinks Roar is all about her and the idea that she is the only brave one. We see how Arthur has fire in his heart even if he isn't like his sister. That was great! Would have loved for Rose to have been more humbled and repentant at the end though.
And poor Grandad just gets left at home again. As always, unless he gets kidnapped. They're never excited to see him, only Roar.
Arthur is such a lovely protagonist though! If he weren't the main character, I wouldn't read it. He's thoughtful, kind, observant, inclusive of others, brave, sacrificial and a good friend and brother.
The illustrations are lovely and the artist tied them in well with the previous trilogy whilst maintaining her own style.
I think these books should have just been a trilogy, but I can see why the land of Roar is being welled for stories by the author, because she can change and shape it at her will.
CW:
- more witchy than the first three books, magic, spells, potions, animating inanimate objects...
- reference to Old Magic that hurts and kills living creatures, and isn't bound by usual laws or ethics
- ghost of a drowned woman
- reference to a witch channelling death through bones
- reference to the villain slashing a dragons wings so she wouldn't follow him
- very weird witchy character who is brewing a potion with the 'soul of an octopus'
Rose is still a self-absorbed brat, whom everything seems to revolve around, and who also just ditches Mitch so she can play dragon rider, which seemed unlike her. But I feel like this story is actually showing how problematic it is that she thinks Roar is all about her and the idea that she is the only brave one. We see how Arthur has fire in his heart even if he isn't like his sister. That was great! Would have loved for Rose to have been more humbled and repentant at the end though.
And poor Grandad just gets left at home again. As always, unless he gets kidnapped. They're never excited to see him, only Roar.
Arthur is such a lovely protagonist though! If he weren't the main character, I wouldn't read it. He's thoughtful, kind, observant, inclusive of others, brave, sacrificial and a good friend and brother.
The illustrations are lovely and the artist tied them in well with the previous trilogy whilst maintaining her own style.
I think these books should have just been a trilogy, but I can see why the land of Roar is being welled for stories by the author, because she can change and shape it at her will.
CW:
- more witchy than the first three books, magic, spells, potions, animating inanimate objects...
- reference to Old Magic that hurts and kills living creatures, and isn't bound by usual laws or ethics
- ghost of a drowned woman
- reference to a witch channelling death through bones
- reference to the villain slashing a dragons wings so she wouldn't follow him
- very weird witchy character who is brewing a potion with the 'soul of an octopus'
January 31, 2025
Wow.
If this is your first first into ROAR then you are in for a real treat.
If you have read Land of ROAR, & others, then let me tell you this is Imaginary!
The twins are all set to go to ROAR as they are staying at Grandad's. But another relative turns up with their baby cousin in tow.
Rose has been busy in her book & is excited to go, but after an argument, Arthur has his vengeance in an unusual way thinking it will be nothing.
I don't want to ruin it. An incredible adventure that had me racing with them with a heart full of fire as a cascade of chaos was unleashed.
I love this series so much and can't wait for readers to discover Dragons, as there is so much more to ROAR than the twins ever thought.
If this is your first first into ROAR then you are in for a real treat.
If you have read Land of ROAR, & others, then let me tell you this is Imaginary!
The twins are all set to go to ROAR as they are staying at Grandad's. But another relative turns up with their baby cousin in tow.
Rose has been busy in her book & is excited to go, but after an argument, Arthur has his vengeance in an unusual way thinking it will be nothing.
I don't want to ruin it. An incredible adventure that had me racing with them with a heart full of fire as a cascade of chaos was unleashed.
I love this series so much and can't wait for readers to discover Dragons, as there is so much more to ROAR than the twins ever thought.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
I read this book with my ten-year-old who is a big fan of the original Roar series and it did not disappoint!
In this spin off from the original series, we follow main characters Arthur and Rose as they discover another land in Roar and enroll at the Dragon Riders Academy (DRAc for short). Written with the same wit and imagination as the original series, this is a Narnia for the younger generation. While you could probably read this as a standalone, I would still recommend reading the original series to get the background on the characters and how the universe works.
A recommended read for fans of the Land of Roar, Narnia, and imaginary worlds.
Thank you to Netgalley and Farshore for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this spin off from the original series, we follow main characters Arthur and Rose as they discover another land in Roar and enroll at the Dragon Riders Academy (DRAc for short). Written with the same wit and imagination as the original series, this is a Narnia for the younger generation. While you could probably read this as a standalone, I would still recommend reading the original series to get the background on the characters and how the universe works.
A recommended read for fans of the Land of Roar, Narnia, and imaginary worlds.
Thank you to Netgalley and Farshore for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2026
Rose and Arthur are about to spend the summer in Roar. Rose has been expanding the mythology of Roar to include a dragon riding Academy. When Rose and Arthur’s cousin visits Arthur is convinced she is replaced by a changeling. Once in Roar Rose and Arthur have several challenges to face. Every story has twists and turns and you can’t predict them all. This was okay. I thought they started and stopped the changeling plot too much. The pacing was very off when I was reading this. I want to start getting Rose’s POV because Arthur sees her just as his sister and doesn’t always share what I feel is missing from these books. I will continue because they are fast and cute, but I hope the pacing is better in the next novel.
July 29, 2026
(audiobook) I like how the author is able to take the same basic premise (returning over and over to an imaginary world) and make it feel new and fresh each time. In this one, for example, Rose is writing a story that takes place in Roar, Arthur adjusts it slightly, and to their surprise everything they write about is not a real thing in Roar. It enables the setting to be both the same and very different, which is fun, and makes for new characters in addition to the core cast.
February 1, 2025
Marvellous middle grade fantasy adventure. You can read my full review here: http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
April 18, 2025
Loved the previous books. But this one was unnecessary.
Not just that, but for long stretches it was clearly just filling in for length. And then there was the Harry Potter shameful cloning.
Should’ve left it as a trilogy.
Not just that, but for long stretches it was clearly just filling in for length. And then there was the Harry Potter shameful cloning.
Should’ve left it as a trilogy.
November 11, 2025
This is the last of a 4 books series that I have read to my 9 year old son. We have both loved them and would highly recommend them to anyone. It really makes you think about how soon children lose their imaginations.
July 9, 2026
4.65✨️
you couldn't pry this series from my cold dead hands
one of the things i love about these books is that you can see the author's writing get better with every book and the tone maturing as the characters get older
you couldn't pry this series from my cold dead hands
one of the things i love about these books is that you can see the author's writing get better with every book and the tone maturing as the characters get older
July 26, 2026
Loved the book, wanted to start reading the fifth one straight away. Guess I need a visit to the local book store! If you want adventure, excitement mixed with mythical creatures then this is the book for you!
April 5, 2025
Absolutely in love with this series 💕
May 17, 2025
This was my favorite book of the series. All my boys agreed! Ages 10, 8, and 5 (but he slept through most of it)
June 3, 2025
I absolutely loved and enjoyed this book very much. It was so exciting and adventurous and amazing. The characters in the book were included. Bal love this book so much 🌷
June 15, 2025
LOVE!!
January 25, 2026
I can't recommend this series enough - this fourth episode was just as entertaining and inventive as the first three, maybe more so, and both the boys and I loved every minute of it!
March 11, 2026
Amazing
May 26, 2026
Too Harry Potter, which is a shame as the series has been great so far
August 12, 2026
As a child, I loved the Roar series. I would always read it with my mum, so when I saw this book in the shops, I bought it instantly. I finished it in less than a week. I think this book is a really fun book to read as a child. It's so action-packed and full of adventure, and I also love how the characters, Rose and Arthur, have continued to grow throughout the series. It's also really funny, and it's a series, I definitely think everyone should give a go.
January 6, 2025
I absolutely loved being back in the land of Roar with its bad guys, dragons and old friends. It was so lovely to go on a new adventure, meet new friends and discover the world of DRAC. Jenny is just a wonder! I can’t wait for the next one too!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews