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Dragonfly
Carrie Thatcher is a tough Imperial counter-terrorism agent. Her pose as a sexy cyber-thief to entrap the notorious rebel Dragonfly, who's planning a heist on the space station Casa de Esperanza – an orbital casino on the fringe of Imperial space.
And this assignment's Dragonfly murdered her closest friend, and she's in no mood to show him mercy. Even getting stuck with the partner from hell—Malachite, her sociopathic ex-lover and the Empire's most dangerous agent—can't dampen her relish for the kill.
With Carrie's expert weapons skills and penchant for cracking codes, insinuating herself into Dragonfly's confidence should be easy. But is he the ruthless killer she was led to believe? Or has her precious Empire deceived her? With Malachite watching her every move, the slightest flinch in loyalty means death.
Carrie is soon racing to uncover an audacious treachery that will shock the Empire to its core … if she can stay alive for long enough to expose it.
And this assignment's Dragonfly murdered her closest friend, and she's in no mood to show him mercy. Even getting stuck with the partner from hell—Malachite, her sociopathic ex-lover and the Empire's most dangerous agent—can't dampen her relish for the kill.
With Carrie's expert weapons skills and penchant for cracking codes, insinuating herself into Dragonfly's confidence should be easy. But is he the ruthless killer she was led to believe? Or has her precious Empire deceived her? With Malachite watching her every move, the slightest flinch in loyalty means death.
Carrie is soon racing to uncover an audacious treachery that will shock the Empire to its core … if she can stay alive for long enough to expose it.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2012
360 people want to read
About the author
Erica Hayes
39 books274 followersErica Hayes was a law student, an air force officer, an editorial assistant and a musician, before finally landing her dream job: fantasy writer. She writes dark paranormal romance, urban fantasy and romantic science fiction, and her books feature tough, smart heroines and colorful heroes with dark secrets.
She hails from Australia, where she drifts from city to city, leaving a trail of chaos behind her. Currently, she’s terrorizing the wilds of Northern Virginia, USA.
She hails from Australia, where she drifts from city to city, leaving a trail of chaos behind her. Currently, she’s terrorizing the wilds of Northern Virginia, USA.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 11, 2012
I’m so freaking excited about DRAGONFLY by Erica Hayes. It is exactly what I want in my science fiction romance reads. I’m extremely picky when it comes to this genre. I’ve read so many SFR’s that start well but then they just totally lose me, and even the ones that I like are sometimes missing that X factor - the unidentifiable thing that makes me want to run around shoving copies of the book into everyone’s arms.
DRAGONFLY had that thing I’m always looking for. It was everything I wanted it to be. Military sci-fi with a capable, kickass heroine, and a smart, gorgeous rebel hero. If you guys like Aren from my books, you’ll love Dragonfly (that’s the hero’s code name). He has all the sexy smiles and he’s very, very good at his job, something that definitely puts him at the top of the hotness scale for me.
So, what is the book about? It’s told from first person POV. Carrie is the heroine, and she’s basically a black ops operative who finally gets the chance to kill the rebel scum who murdered her fiance. Of course, that rebel scum turns out to be Dragonfly, and he’s not what she expected. But she has to put aside his gorgeous looks and his personality that seems to be in conflict with what she’s read in his file, and she has to get close to him so that she can figure out what his big, evil plan is.
The book has lots of cool guns and gadgets, and a very awesome anti-theft concept. Erica Hayes didn’t skimp on the world building, but it’s very easy to follow and understand, even for people like me who did everything possible to avoid science classes in high school and college.
There is something that makes me sad about this book. It’s the fact that I’ve heard virtually nothing about this book. I came across it because I follow Sharon Fisher, author of GHOST PLANET (another SFR that I enjoyed this year), and saw that she added it to her to-read list on Goodreads. On a whim, I clicked over and read the sample pages. The sample pages made me set aside the other book I was reading and purchase DRAGONFLY immediately. I had so much trouble putting it down - NOT a good thing when you’re behind on a deadline.
But as I was saying, this book doesn’t seem to be getting hardly any attention, which is a shame because it’s fantastic. The perfect blend of science fiction, action, and romance, and I really want the book to do well. SFR is a tiny subgenre that I think can explode. It has everything that I love about urban fantasy, but instead of magic and curses and potions, it has guns and spaceships and awesome technology.
I really hope you guys will give it a try. If you do, let me know how you like it.
DRAGONFLY had that thing I’m always looking for. It was everything I wanted it to be. Military sci-fi with a capable, kickass heroine, and a smart, gorgeous rebel hero. If you guys like Aren from my books, you’ll love Dragonfly (that’s the hero’s code name). He has all the sexy smiles and he’s very, very good at his job, something that definitely puts him at the top of the hotness scale for me.
So, what is the book about? It’s told from first person POV. Carrie is the heroine, and she’s basically a black ops operative who finally gets the chance to kill the rebel scum who murdered her fiance. Of course, that rebel scum turns out to be Dragonfly, and he’s not what she expected. But she has to put aside his gorgeous looks and his personality that seems to be in conflict with what she’s read in his file, and she has to get close to him so that she can figure out what his big, evil plan is.
The book has lots of cool guns and gadgets, and a very awesome anti-theft concept. Erica Hayes didn’t skimp on the world building, but it’s very easy to follow and understand, even for people like me who did everything possible to avoid science classes in high school and college.
There is something that makes me sad about this book. It’s the fact that I’ve heard virtually nothing about this book. I came across it because I follow Sharon Fisher, author of GHOST PLANET (another SFR that I enjoyed this year), and saw that she added it to her to-read list on Goodreads. On a whim, I clicked over and read the sample pages. The sample pages made me set aside the other book I was reading and purchase DRAGONFLY immediately. I had so much trouble putting it down - NOT a good thing when you’re behind on a deadline.
But as I was saying, this book doesn’t seem to be getting hardly any attention, which is a shame because it’s fantastic. The perfect blend of science fiction, action, and romance, and I really want the book to do well. SFR is a tiny subgenre that I think can explode. It has everything that I love about urban fantasy, but instead of magic and curses and potions, it has guns and spaceships and awesome technology.
I really hope you guys will give it a try. If you do, let me know how you like it.
December 16, 2012
Excellent sci-fi romance. The ending leaves the door open for a sequel, and to that, all I can say is, YES PLEASE! :D
September 20, 2015
Other than one totally out of place scene where a bunch of fearsome terrorists have nothing to do but taunt a 14 year old "rich girl" like mean girls in the middle of a mission and the heroine blames her for "luring" the killers with her sexy, sexy clothes, Dragonfly was exciting! Erica Hayes can write. Loved Dragonfly the character too, LOL. So sweet. I really liked the theme, which I won't give away, but involves empire.
December 4, 2012
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: An engaging tale of good bad guys and bad good guys; where the line between what is right and wrong are blurred by one’s morals.
Opening Sentence: “What’s the emergency?”
The Review:
In the cold and empty expanse of space, things are beginning to heat up in the Imperial’s war on terrorism. Axis agent Carrie Thatcher, AKA Aragon, has been assigned to take down one of the more notorious rebels of them all; the infamous Dragonfly. She’s all in when it comes to stopping this man from robbing Casa de Esperanza’s casino. What seemed to be a simple case of good guy versus bad guy turns complicated when Carrie gets the opportunity to see things from the rebel’s point-of-view. It’s doesn’t help that Dragonfly is a temptation she should avoid at all costs. What will Carrie do when she must decide to either follow orders or follow her heart?
Carrie may be tough on the outside, but she is deeply scarred on the inside. The only man she has ever loved was killed in a terrorist attack orchestrated by Dragonfly. This assignment is a way for her to do what is good for the Empire as well as avenge her lover. But Carrie is not one to ignorantly follow orders. It becomes obvious to her that there is more going on than she was told. Her morals and ethics demand that she take a step back and see the entire situation without prejudice. Her growing attraction to Dragonfly is just one of the reasons she can’t seem to take down the rebel before knowing the entire story. When push comes to shove, Carrie must rely on her own intuition to find who are the true good guys and bad guys.
The fact that Carrie is known by so many different code names and aliases reiterates that she may no longer understand even herself. Her submersion in each name, each identity, allows her to be free from her own past. When these layers of armor are stripped away, what will the real Carrie be like?
Dragonfly is an amazing character that has just as many names as Carrie! He is sexy, confident, and a genius. Hold on everyone, I must fan myself for a moment. Okay, I’m better now! Anyway, his image is one of a villainous rogue intent on destroying all the good in the Empire. But that is not WHO he is. He uses his intelligence in order to help those people that look to him for protection; those that cannot protect themselves. When Carrie gets involved, she starts to carve a space for herself in his heart. Is he willing to put all his plans in jeopardy for the sake of one woman?
The really great part of Dragonfly, besides the awesome world building, is the cast of characters. Each individual has both good and bad qualities that blur the lines between the two. You can never tell if this one is an actual bad guy, or if he is just a self-centered jerk. This adds a remarkable depth to both the character’s personalities as well as the story itself. I love character driven books and I must say that this one gravitates toward the upper echelon of my list. Hayes inserts modern day issues into a fantastical science fiction story. Though I may not see the day we are living among the stars, I still hope that we retain our humanity in their twinkling depths.
Overall, Dragonfly is a wonderful start to what appears to be the next big story to hit the sci-fi genre. There is love. There is fighting. There is gambling. There is betrayal and redemption. What more can a reader ask for?
Notable Scene:
His fingers clamped my elbow like steel. I tried to fire, but my forearm went numb and the pistol dropped from my nerveless fingers. He dragged me inside and threw me on the floor, and before I recovered from my sprawl, I was on my knees with a hot atomflash jammed against my temple.
Dragonfly swore and scrambled from his bench, but the white-haired girl shoved him back down.
My hair sizzled, stinking. I jerked away. But Spider twined his hand in my braid and forced the atomflash to my head.
He chuckled, rich with satisfaction. “Let’s try this again, Sasha. Yes or dead?
One little mistake. Just one, and now I was helpless. My guts watered, and I closed my eyes and cursed my own stupidity. Leverage in some bickering rebel crossfire.
What a shitty way to die.
FTC Advisory: The author provided me with a copy of Dragonfly. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. I only get paid in hugs and kisses from my little boys.
Quick & Dirty: An engaging tale of good bad guys and bad good guys; where the line between what is right and wrong are blurred by one’s morals.
Opening Sentence: “What’s the emergency?”
The Review:
In the cold and empty expanse of space, things are beginning to heat up in the Imperial’s war on terrorism. Axis agent Carrie Thatcher, AKA Aragon, has been assigned to take down one of the more notorious rebels of them all; the infamous Dragonfly. She’s all in when it comes to stopping this man from robbing Casa de Esperanza’s casino. What seemed to be a simple case of good guy versus bad guy turns complicated when Carrie gets the opportunity to see things from the rebel’s point-of-view. It’s doesn’t help that Dragonfly is a temptation she should avoid at all costs. What will Carrie do when she must decide to either follow orders or follow her heart?
Carrie may be tough on the outside, but she is deeply scarred on the inside. The only man she has ever loved was killed in a terrorist attack orchestrated by Dragonfly. This assignment is a way for her to do what is good for the Empire as well as avenge her lover. But Carrie is not one to ignorantly follow orders. It becomes obvious to her that there is more going on than she was told. Her morals and ethics demand that she take a step back and see the entire situation without prejudice. Her growing attraction to Dragonfly is just one of the reasons she can’t seem to take down the rebel before knowing the entire story. When push comes to shove, Carrie must rely on her own intuition to find who are the true good guys and bad guys.
The fact that Carrie is known by so many different code names and aliases reiterates that she may no longer understand even herself. Her submersion in each name, each identity, allows her to be free from her own past. When these layers of armor are stripped away, what will the real Carrie be like?
Dragonfly is an amazing character that has just as many names as Carrie! He is sexy, confident, and a genius. Hold on everyone, I must fan myself for a moment. Okay, I’m better now! Anyway, his image is one of a villainous rogue intent on destroying all the good in the Empire. But that is not WHO he is. He uses his intelligence in order to help those people that look to him for protection; those that cannot protect themselves. When Carrie gets involved, she starts to carve a space for herself in his heart. Is he willing to put all his plans in jeopardy for the sake of one woman?
The really great part of Dragonfly, besides the awesome world building, is the cast of characters. Each individual has both good and bad qualities that blur the lines between the two. You can never tell if this one is an actual bad guy, or if he is just a self-centered jerk. This adds a remarkable depth to both the character’s personalities as well as the story itself. I love character driven books and I must say that this one gravitates toward the upper echelon of my list. Hayes inserts modern day issues into a fantastical science fiction story. Though I may not see the day we are living among the stars, I still hope that we retain our humanity in their twinkling depths.
Overall, Dragonfly is a wonderful start to what appears to be the next big story to hit the sci-fi genre. There is love. There is fighting. There is gambling. There is betrayal and redemption. What more can a reader ask for?
Notable Scene:
His fingers clamped my elbow like steel. I tried to fire, but my forearm went numb and the pistol dropped from my nerveless fingers. He dragged me inside and threw me on the floor, and before I recovered from my sprawl, I was on my knees with a hot atomflash jammed against my temple.
Dragonfly swore and scrambled from his bench, but the white-haired girl shoved him back down.
My hair sizzled, stinking. I jerked away. But Spider twined his hand in my braid and forced the atomflash to my head.
He chuckled, rich with satisfaction. “Let’s try this again, Sasha. Yes or dead?
One little mistake. Just one, and now I was helpless. My guts watered, and I closed my eyes and cursed my own stupidity. Leverage in some bickering rebel crossfire.
What a shitty way to die.
FTC Advisory: The author provided me with a copy of Dragonfly. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. I only get paid in hugs and kisses from my little boys.
January 4, 2013
Review Courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
DRAGONFLY was a difficult book for me to read and review as I tend to like to watch science fiction television and movies more than read them. Much of this has to do with getting lost in all of the technology descriptions with no good way to visualize what I am reading. From a purely plot standpoint, ignoring all of the sci-fi elements, DRAGONFLY was a pretty good story filled with tons of action and intrigue. The world building is vast with lots of interesting sci-fi gadgets and a very cool twisty storyline. I especially liked how the characters became more complex and the lines between good and bad blurred as the story progressed.
Carrie is an engaging, strong, and complex character. I liked her backstory and the fact that she came off as an incredibly clever resourceful woman, which I always admire in a hero/heroine. One thing that frustrated me, however, was the numerous code names Carrie had–which was especially confusing when one character refers to her by two different names in one conversation.
Carrie’s love interest, (code name: Dragonfly) was just as complicated as Carrie and a strange enigma as his real motivations and identity are essentially a mystery waiting to be unraveled by Carrie. Given the juicy history between these two characters, I was hoping to learn a little more about him.
Overall, DRAGONFLY it is an exciting action adventure that lovers of science fiction novels will surely appreciate and enjoy. While the science fiction genre in this medium is still a little overwhelming for me, I thought the idea was well executed and the characters intriguing. Check out the reviews linked below for a few SF lovers thoughts on DRAGONFLY.
Sexual content: multiple sex scenes
DRAGONFLY was a difficult book for me to read and review as I tend to like to watch science fiction television and movies more than read them. Much of this has to do with getting lost in all of the technology descriptions with no good way to visualize what I am reading. From a purely plot standpoint, ignoring all of the sci-fi elements, DRAGONFLY was a pretty good story filled with tons of action and intrigue. The world building is vast with lots of interesting sci-fi gadgets and a very cool twisty storyline. I especially liked how the characters became more complex and the lines between good and bad blurred as the story progressed.
Carrie is an engaging, strong, and complex character. I liked her backstory and the fact that she came off as an incredibly clever resourceful woman, which I always admire in a hero/heroine. One thing that frustrated me, however, was the numerous code names Carrie had–which was especially confusing when one character refers to her by two different names in one conversation.
Carrie’s love interest, (code name: Dragonfly) was just as complicated as Carrie and a strange enigma as his real motivations and identity are essentially a mystery waiting to be unraveled by Carrie. Given the juicy history between these two characters, I was hoping to learn a little more about him.
Overall, DRAGONFLY it is an exciting action adventure that lovers of science fiction novels will surely appreciate and enjoy. While the science fiction genre in this medium is still a little overwhelming for me, I thought the idea was well executed and the characters intriguing. Check out the reviews linked below for a few SF lovers thoughts on DRAGONFLY.
Sexual content: multiple sex scenes
December 3, 2014
What I liked.
The world building was in-depth, complex and intriguing. The plot was high tension and action packed. There was quite a bit of science (maths) and technology, something I love but that might put off those not so keen on heavy SF elements. The characters are captivating, and the hero particularly takes some figuring out.
What I didn't like.
This was quite slow at the start due to a heavy amount of set up and world building, but had a lot of tension throughout, right to the final conflict...and then totally flopped for the final few pages. I think this book had the most disappointing ending I've come across, even if it had the required HFN for a romance. Also I got a little tired of Carrie with her 'he's my enemy, he has to die, OMG he's hot and I want to sleep with him' mental routine. I prefer my sexual tension a bit more subtle. Others might enjoy her constant mental conflict more than me.
In conclusion.
If you're a fan of the Firefly/Farscape style of space opera, this is for you (Carrie was a very Aeryn Sun type character to me). Be prepared for some heavy-ish technobabble and world building though, and having to stick with it for the first couple of chapters to get to the adventure.
The world building was in-depth, complex and intriguing. The plot was high tension and action packed. There was quite a bit of science (maths) and technology, something I love but that might put off those not so keen on heavy SF elements. The characters are captivating, and the hero particularly takes some figuring out.
What I didn't like.
This was quite slow at the start due to a heavy amount of set up and world building, but had a lot of tension throughout, right to the final conflict...and then totally flopped for the final few pages. I think this book had the most disappointing ending I've come across, even if it had the required HFN for a romance. Also I got a little tired of Carrie with her 'he's my enemy, he has to die, OMG he's hot and I want to sleep with him' mental routine. I prefer my sexual tension a bit more subtle. Others might enjoy her constant mental conflict more than me.
In conclusion.
If you're a fan of the Firefly/Farscape style of space opera, this is for you (Carrie was a very Aeryn Sun type character to me). Be prepared for some heavy-ish technobabble and world building though, and having to stick with it for the first couple of chapters to get to the adventure.
May 20, 2021
4.25 stars
A futuristic sci-fi romance where the Empire rules without mercy. Insurrectionists fight back including the ruthless Dragonfly. When Carrie (code name: Aragon) is sent to find and stop his latest attack, she does so with relish. He’d killed her fiancé, friends and many innocent Imperialists. Revenge will be sweet.
The thief terrorist though is more than his reputation seems and baffles her more and more. Carrie rememberers her non Imperial roots, and sees another view other than Imperial.
The work building is in depth. The Empire is Rus, while other languages we hear of are Brit or Espan. The technology includes slips space, plasma pistols and all sorts of biotech.
There’s intrigue, action, adventure, betrayal and romance. A story of finding your truth when you’ve shut your eyes to it.
Disclaimer: while I know the author personally, this doesn’t affect the star rating
A futuristic sci-fi romance where the Empire rules without mercy. Insurrectionists fight back including the ruthless Dragonfly. When Carrie (code name: Aragon) is sent to find and stop his latest attack, she does so with relish. He’d killed her fiancé, friends and many innocent Imperialists. Revenge will be sweet.
The thief terrorist though is more than his reputation seems and baffles her more and more. Carrie rememberers her non Imperial roots, and sees another view other than Imperial.
The work building is in depth. The Empire is Rus, while other languages we hear of are Brit or Espan. The technology includes slips space, plasma pistols and all sorts of biotech.
There’s intrigue, action, adventure, betrayal and romance. A story of finding your truth when you’ve shut your eyes to it.
Disclaimer: while I know the author personally, this doesn’t affect the star rating
January 8, 2013
soooooooooo good!! crossing my fingers for a sequel!
July 5, 2017
the novel was ok. Carrie was total kick-ass just not crazy about dragonfly. he was too soft and not enough leadership
April 25, 2019
Amazing worldbuilding and great characters. Good action scenes and pacing. I just wish this book had a sequel- there were many plot threads left untied at the end.
September 17, 2013
Review originally posted at
The Book Pushers.
Carrie, who is also known under her codename as Aragon, is an Axis imperial agent. She’s been given the mission to hunt down a cyber-thief rebel who goes under the name, Dragonfly. She has been given crappy run-of-the-mill missions after her team and fiance were killed in action when their mission went wrong. But Carrie jumps at the chance to track down Dragonfly who is to blame for their deaths. However, complications occurs when the black ops arm of the Axis demand that she murders Dragonfly, opposite to her orders which was to capture him alive. She is torn between revenge, and to get back in the good graces of her superiors, but she did not encounter the fact that when she does track down her quarry, she would develop feelings for him and that her loyalties would be challenged to their limits.
I am so glad that I decided to pick up DRAGONFLY by Erica Hayes as part of our Sci Fi Romance theme month, because this is a book which definitely describes the perfect book for this sub-genre. I expected that it would be a fun adventure with good world-building, but I didn’t expect how much I really enjoyed the book because it was full of depth and great characterization, as well a fully realized universe which was brimming full of details that literally leapt off the page.
Carrie is given another identity to entrap Dragonfly. Her new name and identity is to be Lazuli, a sexy and brash thief which will help to attract his attention. The Axis finds out that Dragonfly is planning a heist to help fund the rebellion against the Imperial forces who have an oppressive presence in the galaxy, subduing planets and its population. But things get really complicated for Carrie when she becomes attracted to Dragonfly, and things are further murkier when she has to team up with a former lover of hers, Nikita. The last time she saw him he left her for dead.
I loved how how messy and intricate the emotional elements developed in the story. It really fleshed out Carrie’s character who faces realistic thoughts and feelings when dealing with Nikita who betrayed her so deeply in the past and Dragonfly who is not as the cold-blooded killer she thought he was. She is determined to succeed in her mission but the more she becomes ensconced into the labyrinthine plots, the more twists and turns emerge that have her questioning her orders and the organisation that she believes in. Especially in the context of her past, which is highlighted beautifully in the story, about her deprived beginnings which led her to do things she wanted to forget in order to survive.
The world that Erica Hayes sets out is stark, dark and very gritty which was contrasted sharply with the technological setting, and epic expanse of space travelling. I loved the Sci Fi overtones, which was well thought out and realistic but at the same time, it didn’t overpower the plot or the characters. But it was definitely one of the highlights of the book because so much detail and depth went into the world-building that it came alive for me.
The romance had a cat and mouse overtone, was just plain fun! There was no mooning, or insta-lust and the tension that builds up between Carrie and Dragonfly is just fantastic. It was sexy and flirty but realistic as they both have their own agendas, and seeing them play around that–along with their attraction–was seductive and steamy. Even Nikita’s involvement in the plot added a good old dose of complicated tension to the mix, even though Carrie doesn’t full fall for his old tricks. But he was such a charismatic character. I couldn’t not help fall for him a little bit, and could understand why he held such a huge attraction.
The book was filled with great characters who were lively and vivid, and it was a rich cast of personalities from Dragonfly’s cohorts and ex allies, who adds complications to his goals, to the murky black ops, and Axis agents, that surround Carrie. This was a wonderful world, and the action which was fast pace, had me glued to the pages. However, I did feel the ending with the climax was a bit rushed, and I wished it was expanded because it lost steam at the end with the huge build-up and revelations that came out. I liked how it ended, though.
I really hope there is more to come in this universe and characters because it seems that Erica Hayes has left a huge hint for more to come. I think fans of Ann Aguirre and Linnea Sinclair will lap this up, and I highly recommend this book because it had intrigue, spies and action. And if you’re in the mood for high octane action with multi-faceted characters and a very sexy romance in a real Sci Fi setting–this is the book for you because all these factors worked and created a fantastic and vibrant universe!
I give DRAGONFLY a B+
The Book Pushers.
Carrie, who is also known under her codename as Aragon, is an Axis imperial agent. She’s been given the mission to hunt down a cyber-thief rebel who goes under the name, Dragonfly. She has been given crappy run-of-the-mill missions after her team and fiance were killed in action when their mission went wrong. But Carrie jumps at the chance to track down Dragonfly who is to blame for their deaths. However, complications occurs when the black ops arm of the Axis demand that she murders Dragonfly, opposite to her orders which was to capture him alive. She is torn between revenge, and to get back in the good graces of her superiors, but she did not encounter the fact that when she does track down her quarry, she would develop feelings for him and that her loyalties would be challenged to their limits.
I am so glad that I decided to pick up DRAGONFLY by Erica Hayes as part of our Sci Fi Romance theme month, because this is a book which definitely describes the perfect book for this sub-genre. I expected that it would be a fun adventure with good world-building, but I didn’t expect how much I really enjoyed the book because it was full of depth and great characterization, as well a fully realized universe which was brimming full of details that literally leapt off the page.
Carrie is given another identity to entrap Dragonfly. Her new name and identity is to be Lazuli, a sexy and brash thief which will help to attract his attention. The Axis finds out that Dragonfly is planning a heist to help fund the rebellion against the Imperial forces who have an oppressive presence in the galaxy, subduing planets and its population. But things get really complicated for Carrie when she becomes attracted to Dragonfly, and things are further murkier when she has to team up with a former lover of hers, Nikita. The last time she saw him he left her for dead.
I loved how how messy and intricate the emotional elements developed in the story. It really fleshed out Carrie’s character who faces realistic thoughts and feelings when dealing with Nikita who betrayed her so deeply in the past and Dragonfly who is not as the cold-blooded killer she thought he was. She is determined to succeed in her mission but the more she becomes ensconced into the labyrinthine plots, the more twists and turns emerge that have her questioning her orders and the organisation that she believes in. Especially in the context of her past, which is highlighted beautifully in the story, about her deprived beginnings which led her to do things she wanted to forget in order to survive.
The world that Erica Hayes sets out is stark, dark and very gritty which was contrasted sharply with the technological setting, and epic expanse of space travelling. I loved the Sci Fi overtones, which was well thought out and realistic but at the same time, it didn’t overpower the plot or the characters. But it was definitely one of the highlights of the book because so much detail and depth went into the world-building that it came alive for me.
The romance had a cat and mouse overtone, was just plain fun! There was no mooning, or insta-lust and the tension that builds up between Carrie and Dragonfly is just fantastic. It was sexy and flirty but realistic as they both have their own agendas, and seeing them play around that–along with their attraction–was seductive and steamy. Even Nikita’s involvement in the plot added a good old dose of complicated tension to the mix, even though Carrie doesn’t full fall for his old tricks. But he was such a charismatic character. I couldn’t not help fall for him a little bit, and could understand why he held such a huge attraction.
The book was filled with great characters who were lively and vivid, and it was a rich cast of personalities from Dragonfly’s cohorts and ex allies, who adds complications to his goals, to the murky black ops, and Axis agents, that surround Carrie. This was a wonderful world, and the action which was fast pace, had me glued to the pages. However, I did feel the ending with the climax was a bit rushed, and I wished it was expanded because it lost steam at the end with the huge build-up and revelations that came out. I liked how it ended, though.
I really hope there is more to come in this universe and characters because it seems that Erica Hayes has left a huge hint for more to come. I think fans of Ann Aguirre and Linnea Sinclair will lap this up, and I highly recommend this book because it had intrigue, spies and action. And if you’re in the mood for high octane action with multi-faceted characters and a very sexy romance in a real Sci Fi setting–this is the book for you because all these factors worked and created a fantastic and vibrant universe!
I give DRAGONFLY a B+
December 14, 2012
There’s something about a SciFi romance that appeals to the geek within me.
I love the adventure of powering through space, visiting satellites and docking stations, seeing the difference between colonized worlds and making space jumps that will carry me hundreds of light years to completely different places in the universe. SciFi provides such a wonderful scope for stretching the boundaries of the imagination. Yet in the coldness of space, surrounded by the bright remote stars, all too often SciFi authors neglect human warmth. They focus on the science and forget that what really propels people, no matter if beyond the stars or in our own backyards, is human emotion.
In Dragonfly Erica Hayes has delivered the best of both worlds. She’s written a fascinating, tech-rich, psychological thriller Sci Fi, but grounded the action in very believable characters with multiple human flaws and virtues.
But nothing Hayes writes is ever simple or easy: she is the mistress of ambiguity!
In Dragonfly, as with her past books, Hayes takes the uncomfortable path with flawed heroes (who are sometimes quite unlikeable), danger that skates close to disaster, and moral ambiguity that challenges her readers as much as her characters. And yet, you find yourself pulled into her universe, compelled to immerse yourself in the characters and their challenges as the plot, with its seemingly unresolvable problems, unfold.
Carrie was a challenge for me. As a counter-insurgency agent for the Empire she had turned her back on her origins and reinvented herself as a soldier dedicated to the Empire, clawing her way up the promotions ladder. Along the way she had accepted her family’s rejection, lost men, had her heart broken, but kept herself strong by focusing on mission objectives and on furthering her career. For Carrie, her career meant safety and acceptance, and her teammates her family.
This cold, driven Carrie is quite difficult to like, in large part because she has suppressed so much of her personality. Of course it is the evil of Hayes that she then puts Carrie through the proverbial wringer, challenging her preconceptions and her values, until her veneer is stripped away and what truly matters to her is revealed. Hers is a painful path, especially as she is attracted to a man she believes has committed mass murder, including the murder of her fiancée. Her doubt is both believable and wrenching, but though her travails we end up with a strong, assured and heart-whole Carrie (and she’s still tough and capable thank goodness).
While there are a range of important characters in Dragonfly, representing political and military agendas and Machiavellian motivations, it is the namesake of the book who really captured my imagination.
As a terrorist, insurgent and space pirate Dragonfly had committed crimes against the Empire across its vast territories. While gorgeous (and with a body you’d just love to gnaw on) it seems incongruous that a man capable of the brutality he has shown could be the hero of the book. There’s no secret that he will turn out to be not quite as bad as his reputation would have you believe, but I love that the ambiguity in his actions and his willingness to break rules and be as brutal as a situation requires is not watered down. Dragonfly’s reasons for his actions may be explained, but he is still a tough and rough rule-breaker.
The twists and turns of the plot make for a strong military suspense. The only downside for me was the first 30 pages that were so dense with invented tech and cleverness of the world Hayes had created that it was a real struggle to get through. Persevere, however, and you will find yourself in a great psychological thriller with space and time as your backdrop.
The charismatic, intelligent and tough Dragonfly, with all of his harsh and then kind actions, is simply fabulous. If I could order one of him for myself I’d never let him go! Carrie is intensely believable and kept the book grounded in human warmth.
The only ‘given’ in this book is that no one is who you think. Keep your wits sharp, your pistol primed and go for a ride amongst the stars. It will be an adventure!
September 20, 2013
2.5 stars
I really liked the premise and I haven't read a sci-fi romance for a while so was looking forward to this, but I just found it to be tough going. Its pretty slow and was bogged down with lots of info dumping and techie futuristic jargon especially at the beginning. I normally like reading about all the techie stuff in a sci-fi but this was not done in a way that made it interesting.
I found that a lot of the time I was finding the book to be really slow going and that not a lot was happening. Then at other times when things happened, I then wondered how they were even relevent... for instance the kidnapping - I was left wondering how that even fit into the story? Is it because there will be another book after this and this will be re-visited? Or was it just an awkward plot device to make the hero look kind-hearted and good?
I really like to read about strong female characters and our heroine is supposed to be ex-marines, part of the imperial forces and special black-ops were trying to recruit her for their secret ninja assassin team at the beginning so I thought I would really like her... she also led her own team previously and is apparently really smart... so you can imagine my surprise when she acts like this mission is her first one, she keeps getting her arse kicked by everyone and she loses her temper on a few occasions that reminded me of a sullen teenager! Not cool...
We never really learn anything much about any of the characters other than our heroine. I really wanted to know more about Dragonfly as although I liked the tension between them, it never really seemed real enough as you couldn't feel engaged with the characters enough.
On the plus side, there was definitely something about the premise that kept me reading, but I think that what could have been great kind of fell flat in reality with too much info-dumping and descriptions, not enough character development and a storyline that could have been tighter. I was pretty annoyed that I carried on reading even though I was bored to find that we didn't even get any resolution to anything at the end! Everything is left hanging and there is a (not very good) cliffhanger, so I assume there will be another book. Unfortunately I had specifically chosen this as I have read so many series lately that I wanted a stand-alone book for a change!
I really liked the premise and I haven't read a sci-fi romance for a while so was looking forward to this, but I just found it to be tough going. Its pretty slow and was bogged down with lots of info dumping and techie futuristic jargon especially at the beginning. I normally like reading about all the techie stuff in a sci-fi but this was not done in a way that made it interesting.
I found that a lot of the time I was finding the book to be really slow going and that not a lot was happening. Then at other times when things happened, I then wondered how they were even relevent... for instance the kidnapping - I was left wondering how that even fit into the story? Is it because there will be another book after this and this will be re-visited? Or was it just an awkward plot device to make the hero look kind-hearted and good?
I really like to read about strong female characters and our heroine is supposed to be ex-marines, part of the imperial forces and special black-ops were trying to recruit her for their secret ninja assassin team at the beginning so I thought I would really like her... she also led her own team previously and is apparently really smart... so you can imagine my surprise when she acts like this mission is her first one, she keeps getting her arse kicked by everyone and she loses her temper on a few occasions that reminded me of a sullen teenager! Not cool...
We never really learn anything much about any of the characters other than our heroine. I really wanted to know more about Dragonfly as although I liked the tension between them, it never really seemed real enough as you couldn't feel engaged with the characters enough.
On the plus side, there was definitely something about the premise that kept me reading, but I think that what could have been great kind of fell flat in reality with too much info-dumping and descriptions, not enough character development and a storyline that could have been tighter. I was pretty annoyed that I carried on reading even though I was bored to find that we didn't even get any resolution to anything at the end! Everything is left hanging and there is a (not very good) cliffhanger, so I assume there will be another book. Unfortunately I had specifically chosen this as I have read so many series lately that I wanted a stand-alone book for a change!
April 17, 2017
Great SciFi romance. As an Imperial counter-terrorism agent, Carrie Thatcher has a new mission - to go after the rebel called Dragonfly. What complicates matters, is that this mission is personal, since Dragonfly is responsible for the deaths of her team members, including her lover. Then things go from bad to worse when she has to partner with an ex-lover, a sociopath that can’t be trusted. Once she gets into her role as a cyber-thief and gets involved in Dragonfly’s latest heist, it gets even more complicated. Things don’t seem to be adding up as far as Dragonfly’s reputation as a ruthless killer, and there are some pretty dangerous characters she has to fit in with, while trying to protect a kidnapped young girl as well. I liked how tough and driven Carrie is, and was glad when she began questioning the information she’d been given by the Empire, and making up her own mind about the man she realized was not like she had been lead to believe. I enjoyed the technology and the different scenes in space, and I look forward to checking out more of this author’s work.
January 9, 2016
The Empire's Imperial war heats up personally for Axis counter-insurrection agent Carrie Thatcher, code name Aragon when she's is called in from vacation to chase down one of the galaxy's most audacious and skillful thieves, Dragonfly and stop him. Six years ago, Dragonfly was responsible for killing Carrie's entire team including her fiancé. Now he's rumored to be planning to derail an important Imperial negotiation.
But Carrie's given an anchor for her ankle as the mission begins in the form of her ex, top Axis agent, Malachite. Unknown to Carrie, Malachite's been given an additional directive. Adding more insult to her traumatic injuries, Carrie finds herself a major pawn in a power struggle between her vindictive boss and her boss' psychotic opposite number in the Black Ops team.
Carrie is chemistry and she's worth the time spent reading this book. Her scenes with Dragonfly and/or Malachite are hot the moment they have a scene before an action is taken or a word spoken. What's a girl to do when faced with a charming psychopath and a sexy sociopath? Stay on mission as best she can of course!
Unfortunately, I've heard absolutely nothing about this exciting read that has opened an entirely new sub-genre for this reader. The futuristic surroundings and gadgets; the twisted multi-layered storyline had intrigue, crosses and double crosses; the complete world building and a female lead that deserves a following as rabid as Kate or Mercy are all high points.
Multi-dimensional characters, a complex storyline and an interesting writing style keep this read on the straight and narrow. This medium paced sci-fi romance could easily be the foundation for a long running series, alas that doesn't seem to be on the horizon as the ending tantalized enough for another good read.
But Carrie's given an anchor for her ankle as the mission begins in the form of her ex, top Axis agent, Malachite. Unknown to Carrie, Malachite's been given an additional directive. Adding more insult to her traumatic injuries, Carrie finds herself a major pawn in a power struggle between her vindictive boss and her boss' psychotic opposite number in the Black Ops team.
Carrie is chemistry and she's worth the time spent reading this book. Her scenes with Dragonfly and/or Malachite are hot the moment they have a scene before an action is taken or a word spoken. What's a girl to do when faced with a charming psychopath and a sexy sociopath? Stay on mission as best she can of course!
Unfortunately, I've heard absolutely nothing about this exciting read that has opened an entirely new sub-genre for this reader. The futuristic surroundings and gadgets; the twisted multi-layered storyline had intrigue, crosses and double crosses; the complete world building and a female lead that deserves a following as rabid as Kate or Mercy are all high points.
Multi-dimensional characters, a complex storyline and an interesting writing style keep this read on the straight and narrow. This medium paced sci-fi romance could easily be the foundation for a long running series, alas that doesn't seem to be on the horizon as the ending tantalized enough for another good read.
April 9, 2015
Originally published at West Coast Book Reviews.
This one caught my eye when I was browsing the publisher's website. It looked like a good fit for the scifi/adventure tear I've been on and I sure enjoyed it.
First off, I appreciated the well layered main characters Carrie and Dragonfly. Both have pasts, presents and goals which are revealed as they develop. Revelations and challenges make them more complex and real while stripping them down to who they really are. Not only are they they sums of their experiences but they also have the effects of those experiences peeled away for us. Make sense? Good.
I also really liked the strong, pushy, self-centred urban fantasy first person heroine in a romantic scifi. It's a very empowered POV I always enjoy and even in moments of weakness Carrie remains sturdy. This book holds to urban fantasy right down to the "someone is good with animals and has a furry pet" bit. Perfect.
Hayes direct and descriptive writing pushed me to stay engaged with the story and didn't let up its hold on the action or settings. She gives us smells and scents (yes, Hayes definitely shows us the distinction), dirt, sweat and so many unique bits of tech, security and booby traps the world she built is both amazing and immersive.
Loved this read! Recommended for both UF and scifirom readers. Excellent action doesn't let up and won't let you put it down.
This one caught my eye when I was browsing the publisher's website. It looked like a good fit for the scifi/adventure tear I've been on and I sure enjoyed it.
First off, I appreciated the well layered main characters Carrie and Dragonfly. Both have pasts, presents and goals which are revealed as they develop. Revelations and challenges make them more complex and real while stripping them down to who they really are. Not only are they they sums of their experiences but they also have the effects of those experiences peeled away for us. Make sense? Good.
I also really liked the strong, pushy, self-centred urban fantasy first person heroine in a romantic scifi. It's a very empowered POV I always enjoy and even in moments of weakness Carrie remains sturdy. This book holds to urban fantasy right down to the "someone is good with animals and has a furry pet" bit. Perfect.
Hayes direct and descriptive writing pushed me to stay engaged with the story and didn't let up its hold on the action or settings. She gives us smells and scents (yes, Hayes definitely shows us the distinction), dirt, sweat and so many unique bits of tech, security and booby traps the world she built is both amazing and immersive.
Loved this read! Recommended for both UF and scifirom readers. Excellent action doesn't let up and won't let you put it down.
December 13, 2012
I'm new to the Sci-fi genre because I usually find it disinteresting or hard to follow. With the added genre of romance and excellent world building in this book I was totally and utterly drawn in. I only put this book down when my eyelids were dropping and the early morning fast approaching. There are so many layers to reveal in this book. So many aliases, backgrounds and allegiances. Everything felt well-paced and was very well written. You will not be disappointed with the romance either!
Then ending is bittersweet and hints at a sequel. Let's hope the news of book 2 is released soon. This is a book that you just cannot miss, regardless of the genres you usually read. Thank you
for the recommendation!
P.S - What DID they do to her at the end? :'(
Then ending is bittersweet and hints at a sequel. Let's hope the news of book 2 is released soon. This is a book that you just cannot miss, regardless of the genres you usually read. Thank you
for the recommendation!P.S - What DID they do to her at the end? :'(
January 12, 2013
Empieza como una estupenda Space opera, con un mundo bien construido y ciertas pinceladas tekkies que me han convencido totalmente. La protagonista es lo suficientemente inteligente y valiente como para resultar convincente, además, sus dilemas internos son creíbles y facilitan la empatía.
El problema surge cuando nos quieren vender la historia romántica, la novela pierde fuelle y resulta poco creíble. Las dificultades que separan a los protas son cuasi insalvables en cualquier mente racional pero una "atracción irresistible" hace que los dilemas morales se diluyan en la nada.
No me lo creo.
Sasha es demasiado buenazo para ser creíble como osado guerrillero, y al no tener su POV no entiendo como se enamora en las breves y frenéticas escenas que comparte con Carrie.
Se agradece que las escenas hot son pocas y escasamente detalladas porque entonces el libro hubiera sido inacabable.
El problema surge cuando nos quieren vender la historia romántica, la novela pierde fuelle y resulta poco creíble. Las dificultades que separan a los protas son cuasi insalvables en cualquier mente racional pero una "atracción irresistible" hace que los dilemas morales se diluyan en la nada.
No me lo creo.
Sasha es demasiado buenazo para ser creíble como osado guerrillero, y al no tener su POV no entiendo como se enamora en las breves y frenéticas escenas que comparte con Carrie.
Se agradece que las escenas hot son pocas y escasamente detalladas porque entonces el libro hubiera sido inacabable.
March 26, 2013
GREAT BOOK! Carrie is lovely! We can identify with her actions, and understand why she become her. Marvelous action scenes,Dragonfly is really well writen,read in only one day! The romance is realistic and sexy! the only bad thing is that we don't know if will be a sequel! I NEED BOOK TWO! :)
December 29, 2012
Loved it. Fiesty strong heroine and a great adventure story. Another keeper.
June 11, 2014
Surprisingly great read! Fans of Kenyon's The League Series should definitely give this book a try. More detailed review to come...
Read
March 5, 2013Read up to 50%, but felt disconnected with the characters. End up dnf. Might continue back some time later.
February 24, 2013
didn't like the way it ended to set up for the next book but story was good
December 16, 2012
Wasn't as good as I would have liked but not bad.
Read
August 4, 2018I'd like to read this book but it is not available for the nook.
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