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Return to Avalore #1
Call of the Dragon
Rhia Atkinson is a woman on the run. The same vicious creatures that killed her mother four years ago are still on the hunt, and she’s the prey. She thought she’d come to terms with her solitary existence until Drake comes along, reigniting her dreams of family and belonging. His tall tales of a missing queen and the looming extinction of a race of people she never knew existed has her agreeing to go on a journey to Avalore. Traditions as old as time stand in her way as she tries to convince Drake that he’s her choice for a mate. With the enemy breathing down her neck, all she has to do is figure out a way to make it work before she ends up joined to some stranger, or worse, dead.
Drake Sperwell has spent years searching for one woman, the Queen of Avalore. Time is running out. With the survival of their entire species hanging in the balance, failure is not an option. When he finds her deep in battle in New York City, all his prayers are answered. What he didn’t count on was his reaction to the woman, or his dragon’s need to claim her as its mate. Denying their chemistry might just kill him, but she’s off limits. Her destiny lies with her true mate in Avalore.
Drake Sperwell has spent years searching for one woman, the Queen of Avalore. Time is running out. With the survival of their entire species hanging in the balance, failure is not an option. When he finds her deep in battle in New York City, all his prayers are answered. What he didn’t count on was his reaction to the woman, or his dragon’s need to claim her as its mate. Denying their chemistry might just kill him, but she’s off limits. Her destiny lies with her true mate in Avalore.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2014
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August 30, 2016Free on amazon.co.uk at the time of posting
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October 6, 2016
I'm only going to give this book 2 stars, because while it was a very easy read, I had several problems with it.
The plot was very ho-hum, more a series of mini-adventures that were never spoken of again, rather than leading up to one central conflict. Characters and factions were introduced, which while I'm sure will show up in later books, served no function in this story. The mythology created was a little convoluted at times, but also very contrived - the only function it served was to present an easily surmountable obstacle to the hero and heroine (ESPECIALLY in the closing chapters, which felt more like filler).
The heroine was a bit of a Mary-Sue, and seemed to adjust to the paranormal abilities of the Hero and his cohorts remarkably quickly - yes she has her own abilities, but there were things they could do that she couldn't and it just felt like water off a ducks back. Nothing was truly difficult for her, and she accepted everything rather quickly.
The hero almost didn't have a character. He spent the whole book reacting to what the heroine was doing. His sole motivations concerned her and nothing else.
What should have been the big bad practically didn't exist, you don't meet her until more than two thirds of the way through the book. There is no bait and switch of "who could it be", and "no it's not them, but aha! It is!" When she did finally show up, she was easily dispatched by someone who is a novice with their abilities, compared to a supposed master.
I must admit I was more than a little disappointed that a paranormal romance entitled "Call of the Dragon" handled the "dragon" aspect so poorly. We were introduced to the concept without any real explanation of how this differs from a normal "dragon" until halfway through the book. I understand that most of the action was from the heroine's point of view, but the hero mentioned it so offhandedly and without explanation (in his head), early on, that it felt like we'd missed an important point and I had to go back and check that no previous explanations had been given.
Overall, the writing felt quite immature and shallow, what I would expect from someone's first novel. And as you can probably guess, I won't be reading any more.
The plot was very ho-hum, more a series of mini-adventures that were never spoken of again, rather than leading up to one central conflict. Characters and factions were introduced, which while I'm sure will show up in later books, served no function in this story. The mythology created was a little convoluted at times, but also very contrived - the only function it served was to present an easily surmountable obstacle to the hero and heroine (ESPECIALLY in the closing chapters, which felt more like filler).
The heroine was a bit of a Mary-Sue, and seemed to adjust to the paranormal abilities of the Hero and his cohorts remarkably quickly - yes she has her own abilities, but there were things they could do that she couldn't and it just felt like water off a ducks back. Nothing was truly difficult for her, and she accepted everything rather quickly.
The hero almost didn't have a character. He spent the whole book reacting to what the heroine was doing. His sole motivations concerned her and nothing else.
What should have been the big bad practically didn't exist, you don't meet her until more than two thirds of the way through the book. There is no bait and switch of "who could it be", and "no it's not them, but aha! It is!" When she did finally show up, she was easily dispatched by someone who is a novice with their abilities, compared to a supposed master.
I must admit I was more than a little disappointed that a paranormal romance entitled "Call of the Dragon" handled the "dragon" aspect so poorly. We were introduced to the concept without any real explanation of how this differs from a normal "dragon" until halfway through the book. I understand that most of the action was from the heroine's point of view, but the hero mentioned it so offhandedly and without explanation (in his head), early on, that it felt like we'd missed an important point and I had to go back and check that no previous explanations had been given.
Overall, the writing felt quite immature and shallow, what I would expect from someone's first novel. And as you can probably guess, I won't be reading any more.
July 24, 2015
I absolutely loved this author's writing style. Excellent world building. Unique and perfectly created characters. I initially thought the plot similar to some I've read before, but then I discovered Ms. Adams takes things one step further to give it her own special twist, resulting in an exceptional read I didn't want to put down.
This author, though her work was previously unknown to me, has just made her way onto my automatic TBR list, and I look forward to reading the remaining books in the series. Well done, Ms. Adams!
This author, though her work was previously unknown to me, has just made her way onto my automatic TBR list, and I look forward to reading the remaining books in the series. Well done, Ms. Adams!
November 3, 2014
Call of the Dragon was definitely unique and kept my attention from start to finish. I literally could not put this book down, I stayed up all night reading it, I just needed to know who the evil do'er was! At the start of the book your literally just thrown into Rhia's world where she starts to explain what happened to her as she fights off a monster. It actually totally works, it really reminds me of the opening scene for Underworld, just without all that leather! The point of view also switches right off the bat, so you get the world from Rhia's eyes, but also from Drake an his warrior perspective.
Rhia was a great heroine, she actually followed her instincts. I liked the fact that she was able to show vulnerability and be scared, at the same time though she was more than ready to take down anything in her way. She was also very compassionate and loving towards people, even those she just met. Drake is your alpha type guy with an unusual condition. He's kinda hot then cold, and goes back and forth for awhile with his feelings. I enjoyed him all the same. Some side characters like Rhias' family were introduced as well, they all seemed interesting. Aiken seemed the most mysterious, while Evan seemed like an open book for the most part.
I really loved this book, it was fun and original all around. I really haven't ever come across an idea quite like this before. The monsters themselves were very original, as were the Avalorians an their society. I'm definitely going to pick up more books from this author and continue with this series.
This is 18+ there are sex scenes.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rhia was a great heroine, she actually followed her instincts. I liked the fact that she was able to show vulnerability and be scared, at the same time though she was more than ready to take down anything in her way. She was also very compassionate and loving towards people, even those she just met. Drake is your alpha type guy with an unusual condition. He's kinda hot then cold, and goes back and forth for awhile with his feelings. I enjoyed him all the same. Some side characters like Rhias' family were introduced as well, they all seemed interesting. Aiken seemed the most mysterious, while Evan seemed like an open book for the most part.
I really loved this book, it was fun and original all around. I really haven't ever come across an idea quite like this before. The monsters themselves were very original, as were the Avalorians an their society. I'm definitely going to pick up more books from this author and continue with this series.
This is 18+ there are sex scenes.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2016
Well! What a little gem of a read this one was, I absolutely LOVED it! I had no idea what to expect when going in to this book but I will say it grabbed me from word one and I ended up pulling an almost all-nighter, I just could not put it down.
Loved the world building, brilliant characters, strong story, a good twist on the traditional shifter books out there, a good dollop of fantasy that really worked, tight writing, delish cover and good editing. A total win-win for me.
4.5 stars
Loved the world building, brilliant characters, strong story, a good twist on the traditional shifter books out there, a good dollop of fantasy that really worked, tight writing, delish cover and good editing. A total win-win for me.
4.5 stars
June 29, 2017
3.5 Stars!
November 12, 2014
This is clearly the first in this new series and I have to admit it's a new author to me. I saw this beautiful cover and the word dragon and simply could not resist reading it. It's a shifter romance but the dragon personality is not overused and in fact it's the budding relationship and journey that predominantly dominate this storyline.
Rhia has certain unique gifts that mean she is constantly looking over her shoulder. Four years ago her mother was killed by strange creatures that have dogged their footsteps and now Rhia senses that one is closing in on her new home and it's time to up sticks and move on. When she gets home though it's too late and there's a nasty surprise waiting for her but Rhia is not one to go down without a fight but out of nowhere a stranger appears and just like Rhia he has devastating powers!
Drake is a soldier of Avalore and together with his fellow warriors have been searching for their mssing queen Rhiannon. They believe she's in the human realm but something powerful hides her. When he discovers Rhia confronting a dangerous enemy he is beyond belief as the females of his race are healers and not fighters but this strong female is about to teach Drake that not all women will bow down. Drake struggles to convince Rhia that she is his long lost queen but as they face a perilous journey its much harder for her to ignore the truth. Avalore needs its Queen back but it's increasingly obvious that Drake wants Rhia but he isnt her fated mate and no matter how attracted they are its not meant to be but Rhia is far more determined than anyone realises!
I'm a little undecided about this book. It's well written and I liked that even though there is a shifter element to the story it's not overriding it. There's no internal dialogue between Drake and his other side as it were but a unique twist instead . What I didn't like was that females are light energy and males carry dark as it felt a little too much like a certain popular vampire series. That being said the way in which mates are determined was a complete surprise and I really enjoyed seeing Rhia stand up for what she believes is right. Throughout the book Rhia is plagued by dreams and some she shares but there's a lot she doesn't which for this reader made it a tad disjointed .
So I would read another book by this author and it's clear that Rhias brother has quite a complicated story to tell . It's a complicated and indeed quite fascinating world the author is creating and with Drake around "sharing" is certainly a wondrous thing. So if you enjoy a paranormal story with a hot hero and a woman who pushes all his buttons then this book should certainly be on your shelf.
Rhia has certain unique gifts that mean she is constantly looking over her shoulder. Four years ago her mother was killed by strange creatures that have dogged their footsteps and now Rhia senses that one is closing in on her new home and it's time to up sticks and move on. When she gets home though it's too late and there's a nasty surprise waiting for her but Rhia is not one to go down without a fight but out of nowhere a stranger appears and just like Rhia he has devastating powers!
Drake is a soldier of Avalore and together with his fellow warriors have been searching for their mssing queen Rhiannon. They believe she's in the human realm but something powerful hides her. When he discovers Rhia confronting a dangerous enemy he is beyond belief as the females of his race are healers and not fighters but this strong female is about to teach Drake that not all women will bow down. Drake struggles to convince Rhia that she is his long lost queen but as they face a perilous journey its much harder for her to ignore the truth. Avalore needs its Queen back but it's increasingly obvious that Drake wants Rhia but he isnt her fated mate and no matter how attracted they are its not meant to be but Rhia is far more determined than anyone realises!
I'm a little undecided about this book. It's well written and I liked that even though there is a shifter element to the story it's not overriding it. There's no internal dialogue between Drake and his other side as it were but a unique twist instead . What I didn't like was that females are light energy and males carry dark as it felt a little too much like a certain popular vampire series. That being said the way in which mates are determined was a complete surprise and I really enjoyed seeing Rhia stand up for what she believes is right. Throughout the book Rhia is plagued by dreams and some she shares but there's a lot she doesn't which for this reader made it a tad disjointed .
So I would read another book by this author and it's clear that Rhias brother has quite a complicated story to tell . It's a complicated and indeed quite fascinating world the author is creating and with Drake around "sharing" is certainly a wondrous thing. So if you enjoy a paranormal story with a hot hero and a woman who pushes all his buttons then this book should certainly be on your shelf.
February 17, 2017
Really Loved this Book! Definitely an all-time favorite! The characters are amazing. The plot and world building for this new series is exciting, fresh and unique. Lots of action and a great love story as well. I'm definitely going to be reading the rest of the series and I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND this first book!
5+ STARS
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley, after requesting it. I ONLY give HONEST Reviews, so this in no way affected my opinion.
5+ STARS
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley, after requesting it. I ONLY give HONEST Reviews, so this in no way affected my opinion.
December 6, 2014
OH MY GOSH I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!! I could not put it down! Ok, sorry, I know I’m yelling right now, but I am so relieved and happy to read a book that I absolutely loved. It’s such a sigh of relief to be excited about a series again! First of all can we all just sigh at this cover, it’s gorgeous! This is the first story in the new Return to Avalore series. It follows Rhiannon who recently learned that she is the lost Queen of the magical land called Avalore. Drake is a dedicated citizen of Avalore who spent years searching for their lost queen in hopes of bringing her back to their homeland and saving their people. From the moment they meet the connection between Rhia and Drake was obvious and undeniable. They go through countless obstacles and trials that bring them closer together, only to have them torn apart. I loved these two together, they are extremely strong individually but you could tell that they were just meant for each other. They were the perfect pairing. I was never bored while reading this story and just wanted to soak up every single character. The supporting characters were just as strong and lovable as the main characters. The only thing I felt missing was a little more detail on how and why Rhia was removed from Avalore in the first place. There are some assumptions but I don’t feel it was clearly explained. I’m not sure if that’s something we’ll see play out in future books or not, but I hope so. I cannot wait to see what else this author has in store for this series I will be a dedicated follower! I highly recommend this book.
November 3, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't know what to expect from this book because I had never heard of this author before, but the description seemed fun and it already had some decent reviews posted on Goodreads so I decided to request it. I'm very happy that I did because I enjoyed everything about the book. The writing was descriptive and bold, the world-building was imaginative, and the characters were likable.
The plot is not super original, it's hard to come up with fresh ideas for PNR books as it seems like almost everything has been done, but it was captivating nonetheless. If you can take a generic fantasy world with magic and shifters, and make it something worth reading even though I've read a million books just like it - that is saying something. I attribute that to the author's writing style and skill.
She also introduced some great secondary characters in the book so the readers already know who we want to read about in the next book. I'm looking forward to continuing this series and appreciate venues like Netgalley that bring new authors to the spotlight.
I didn't know what to expect from this book because I had never heard of this author before, but the description seemed fun and it already had some decent reviews posted on Goodreads so I decided to request it. I'm very happy that I did because I enjoyed everything about the book. The writing was descriptive and bold, the world-building was imaginative, and the characters were likable.
The plot is not super original, it's hard to come up with fresh ideas for PNR books as it seems like almost everything has been done, but it was captivating nonetheless. If you can take a generic fantasy world with magic and shifters, and make it something worth reading even though I've read a million books just like it - that is saying something. I attribute that to the author's writing style and skill.
She also introduced some great secondary characters in the book so the readers already know who we want to read about in the next book. I'm looking forward to continuing this series and appreciate venues like Netgalley that bring new authors to the spotlight.
January 19, 2015
Call of the Dragon was a great romantic fantasy novel. Rhia is fighting for her life against a giant beast when Drake shows up out of nowhere and ends the battle himself. He begins telling Rhia what she at first believes may be a tall tale about herself being the long-lost Queen of Avalore - destined to return the lands to prosperity. As the attacks continue, Rhia agrees to the journey and the danger and adventure begin - along with the romance, which is hot Hot HOT!
I liked Drake's character - he really struggled between what his heart wanted and what his head kept telling him. Even when he was trying to steer clear of Rhia, he couldn't stop trying to protect her. Rhia's struggle was real - she grew up with the societal rules of the USA, and then was thrust headfirst into Avalore that couples pairs up by arranged marriages! I felt like some of the issues could have been solved quicker by her explaining what was happening in her dreams, but I understood at the same time that she was constantly reeling from new bit of information being thrown at her.
As always, I love a good HEA and am thankful for this ARC given to me in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley.
I liked Drake's character - he really struggled between what his heart wanted and what his head kept telling him. Even when he was trying to steer clear of Rhia, he couldn't stop trying to protect her. Rhia's struggle was real - she grew up with the societal rules of the USA, and then was thrust headfirst into Avalore that couples pairs up by arranged marriages! I felt like some of the issues could have been solved quicker by her explaining what was happening in her dreams, but I understood at the same time that she was constantly reeling from new bit of information being thrown at her.
As always, I love a good HEA and am thankful for this ARC given to me in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley.
January 26, 2018
Rhiannon or Rhia is alone and the prey for the beast that killed her mother four years ago. She has the power to heal others and ease their pain but when she uses the gift, the beasts find her. She has accepted that she is alone in the world and will stay that way for the rest of her life.
Drake has spent many years searching to the Queen of Avalore where his people live. The people need the queen to return to bring the light back to the land. It is by chance that Drake finds Queen Rhiannon while she is under attack from one of the beasts. He comes to her aid and helps her escape that this begins an exciting journey to her homeland and the defeat of the beasts from the dark lands.
The action never stops when an enemy within the kingdom of Avalore must be defeated and then Drake and Rhia face the ancient traditions to challenge them so they can become mates.
Call of the Dragon is full of action, hot dragon romance and lots of badness to be defeated making it an exciting paranormal romance full of spice.
Drake has spent many years searching to the Queen of Avalore where his people live. The people need the queen to return to bring the light back to the land. It is by chance that Drake finds Queen Rhiannon while she is under attack from one of the beasts. He comes to her aid and helps her escape that this begins an exciting journey to her homeland and the defeat of the beasts from the dark lands.
The action never stops when an enemy within the kingdom of Avalore must be defeated and then Drake and Rhia face the ancient traditions to challenge them so they can become mates.
Call of the Dragon is full of action, hot dragon romance and lots of badness to be defeated making it an exciting paranormal romance full of spice.
November 11, 2016
I was surprised how much I liked this book. I picked it up for free in an instafreebie deal and thought it would be a basic shifter romance where girl meets animal-guy and there's a conflict and then they get together with lots of fun sex involved. And, yes, this book has all of that, except it has a whole lot more. It has a complex and lovely fantasy world in Avalore, comprehensive magic system, new and fascinating magical creatures of both white and dark magic, and a whole cast of three-dimensional characters I'm looking forward to getting to know in the rest of the series. And it does a great job of challenging and debunking the whole "fated" mate trope, which is always great to see in a shifter romance. Fun and entertaining read.
November 6, 2014
I loved this book!!!! the chemistry between Rhia and Drake was great. the world-building interesting and there is a lot of further potential there.
I also loved the secondary characters, although they could have been a bit more characterized
why only 4,5 points: because there were some things I thought were not understandable - e.g. why does Rhia never speak to Drake about her dreams. that does not make any sense
and ... is it really so difficult for authors to give us after the climax a bit of romance. an Epilogue just makes the story much more satisfying ... especially in cases like this.
nevertheless I loved it and can't wait for the next book
detailed review to come
I also loved the secondary characters, although they could have been a bit more characterized
why only 4,5 points: because there were some things I thought were not understandable - e.g. why does Rhia never speak to Drake about her dreams. that does not make any sense
and ... is it really so difficult for authors to give us after the climax a bit of romance. an Epilogue just makes the story much more satisfying ... especially in cases like this.
nevertheless I loved it and can't wait for the next book
detailed review to come
January 25, 2015
I loved this book. i am really into dragon shifter romance at the moment and this did not let me down.
Rhia is on the run from the monsters that killed her mother, what she does not know is she does not belong on earth. this starts a new adventure for Rhia that turns her whole world upside down. i absolutly loved her, she is a strong character that takes everything that life throwns at her in her stride. Drake well what is there to say about him? i loved every sexy inch of him. all the characters where unique and well written. i also loved the cover (its what drew me to the book)
i will be reading book two soon ;)
Rhia is on the run from the monsters that killed her mother, what she does not know is she does not belong on earth. this starts a new adventure for Rhia that turns her whole world upside down. i absolutly loved her, she is a strong character that takes everything that life throwns at her in her stride. Drake well what is there to say about him? i loved every sexy inch of him. all the characters where unique and well written. i also loved the cover (its what drew me to the book)
i will be reading book two soon ;)
August 8, 2015
An absolutely delightful read! Jam packed full of action, bravey from both the male and female leads. A highly entertaining full length novel!! It moves smoothly from one scene to the next without losing you even as you leave earth and travel to a new world.
I can not say enough of this book which had me on the edge of my seat and unable to put it down till I finished it. Well worth the download and time to read it! Absolutely a GREAT book whill will make you believe in true love all over again!
I only wish I could give this book more then 5 Stars!!
I can not say enough of this book which had me on the edge of my seat and unable to put it down till I finished it. Well worth the download and time to read it! Absolutely a GREAT book whill will make you believe in true love all over again!
I only wish I could give this book more then 5 Stars!!
dnf
October 18, 2016It was free but I didn't get into it. I won't rate the book because I didn't read enough of it. It could have been my mood or my lack of reading time making me continually have to put this book down and not being able to get into a groove. Inspired by my Goodreads friend Talltree, life is too short to force yourself onward when a book just isn't happening for you.
Since it is free I encourage readers to give it a try if it sounds like a book they'd like. There is no risk after all.
Since it is free I encourage readers to give it a try if it sounds like a book they'd like. There is no risk after all.
tbr-later
November 10, 201525 March 2015: $0.00 on Kindle
May 23, 2015
i really loved this book.i am so happy she got the happy ending she deserved
November 4, 2017
Oh my goodness!
This was an exciting new twist on dragon stories! I love it! It had so much action that I couldn't put it down. Thank you Elianne Adams.
This was an exciting new twist on dragon stories! I love it! It had so much action that I couldn't put it down. Thank you Elianne Adams.
December 5, 2014
I gave it 3.5/5 stars
Rhia lives day to day, moving a lot and hiding from the creatures that killed her mother. When another creature shows up she knows it's time to move on, but then Drake shows up and tells her this crazy story about how's she's the Queen of some place called Avalore and he has to bring her back so she can save their world. She of course thinks he's nuts but then other things start happening and she can't deny the facts. She's the Queen and she wants nothing more than for Drake to be hers. Drake has been searching for Rhia for a really long time and he's finally found her. The only problem? His Dragon wants her for his own and he knows he can never have her.
I liked Rhia. She can take care of herself and she doesn't take things at face value. Can she be a little stubborn? Of course, but she knows what she wants and will work to get it. Drake is your typical alpha male. Protective, a bit bossy, and set in his ways. The attraction between the two is pretty instant. I am surprised that Drake was able to hold out so long and I wish he would have fought for Rhia as hard as she fought for him, but I also understand where he was coming from.
I felt the fight with the villein wasn't as powerful as I wanted it to be. It felt rushed and it didn't really live up to my hopes of what it would be. We got to know the couple well, but there is still a lot about the world that I would like to know. I have a lot of questions that I hope will be answered in book 2. CALL OF THE DRAGON was fast paced and had an interesting storyline. The characters were likable and the world was interesting. Again I have a lot of questions about it still, but I wasn't overly upset that I didn't get the answers by the end. I am interested in seeing what book 2, RISE OF THE PHOENIX, brings to the table and I am hopeful that Brienne and Evan are just as interesting as Rhia and Drake.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Rhia lives day to day, moving a lot and hiding from the creatures that killed her mother. When another creature shows up she knows it's time to move on, but then Drake shows up and tells her this crazy story about how's she's the Queen of some place called Avalore and he has to bring her back so she can save their world. She of course thinks he's nuts but then other things start happening and she can't deny the facts. She's the Queen and she wants nothing more than for Drake to be hers. Drake has been searching for Rhia for a really long time and he's finally found her. The only problem? His Dragon wants her for his own and he knows he can never have her.
I liked Rhia. She can take care of herself and she doesn't take things at face value. Can she be a little stubborn? Of course, but she knows what she wants and will work to get it. Drake is your typical alpha male. Protective, a bit bossy, and set in his ways. The attraction between the two is pretty instant. I am surprised that Drake was able to hold out so long and I wish he would have fought for Rhia as hard as she fought for him, but I also understand where he was coming from.
I felt the fight with the villein wasn't as powerful as I wanted it to be. It felt rushed and it didn't really live up to my hopes of what it would be. We got to know the couple well, but there is still a lot about the world that I would like to know. I have a lot of questions that I hope will be answered in book 2. CALL OF THE DRAGON was fast paced and had an interesting storyline. The characters were likable and the world was interesting. Again I have a lot of questions about it still, but I wasn't overly upset that I didn't get the answers by the end. I am interested in seeing what book 2, RISE OF THE PHOENIX, brings to the table and I am hopeful that Brienne and Evan are just as interesting as Rhia and Drake.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2015
A really enjoyable escape from reality :)
I got this book because it was a free read that I came across on Amazon, while doing a search for dragons.
I went over the description and the reviews and got it, hoping for a descent read. Honestly I loved this story and the world that Elianne Adams created.
The writing flows and brings you into a believable world filled with great characters you will fall in love with and will want to know their stories.
I highly recommend this book and series. You will not be disappointed if you enjoy adult, action filled fairytales :D
This is not a young adult/clean read. On a steam scale 1-5 I give this book a perfect 3.
I got this book because it was a free read that I came across on Amazon, while doing a search for dragons.
I went over the description and the reviews and got it, hoping for a descent read. Honestly I loved this story and the world that Elianne Adams created.
The writing flows and brings you into a believable world filled with great characters you will fall in love with and will want to know their stories.
I highly recommend this book and series. You will not be disappointed if you enjoy adult, action filled fairytales :D
This is not a young adult/clean read. On a steam scale 1-5 I give this book a perfect 3.
July 5, 2016
~3.5 stars~
I enjoyed this read. It did have the insta-love thing going on but that was easy to overlook because the main couple did seem to develop together as the story progressed. I suppose my main issue with this book is how easily the heroine accepted being thrown into this new world. Not just a new world, but a new family. Her character just seemed to be "too accepting" at times. While it did have some minor flaws as a story, it was a good first addition to the series and I'll check out the next book as its released. I'm glad it was offered as a kindleunlimited and that the story didn’t end on a cliffhanger. It felt much more like a HEA.
I enjoyed this read. It did have the insta-love thing going on but that was easy to overlook because the main couple did seem to develop together as the story progressed. I suppose my main issue with this book is how easily the heroine accepted being thrown into this new world. Not just a new world, but a new family. Her character just seemed to be "too accepting" at times. While it did have some minor flaws as a story, it was a good first addition to the series and I'll check out the next book as its released. I'm glad it was offered as a kindleunlimited and that the story didn’t end on a cliffhanger. It felt much more like a HEA.
September 17, 2016
Loved it!
Loved this book! Just didn't last long enough! I will be reading more of hers. Would love the back story of William and his late wife.
Loved this book! Just didn't last long enough! I will be reading more of hers. Would love the back story of William and his late wife.
July 16, 2018
Fantasy is not my first genre of choice. It's something I read when I need a big break from other things that I'm doing or just life in general. I needed a break and I got a reward when I read this book.
Rhia is just a girl trying to make her way through life. She knows she's different and she has special healing powers and uses them to help people. She also knows that something dark is after her. She just doesn't know what. She lives in a humble, ratty apartment and keeps a low profile. Imagine her surprise when she discovers a man in her apartment and this man wants to take her to a place she's never heard of. In addition to that, he tells her that she is the Queen of Avalore. She is filled with doubt, but goes along with him. It wasn't as easy as that.
What she doesn't realize is this man is a dragon and Avalore is a real place. This dragon, Drake, doesn't do full shift changes as shifts happen in other books. He stays in human form for the most part with the powers of a dragon. Rhia also doesn't know she's got brothers, although she'd dreamed about these guys her whole life.
Getting Rhia back to Avalore is a feat unto itself that involves Drake and her brothers getting involved with nefarious creatures and bloody battles. She's still not sure she is who they think she is, but soon discovers the truth and goes against one of their esteemed traditions, taking great risk to do it.
I enjoyed this book. I was drawn into the story and wanted to find out what happened next. I cared about the characters and found myself cheering for them and sharing their heartbreaks. It's fast-paced and well written with just a few errors that did not take away from the reading experience at all.
Great book!
Rhia is just a girl trying to make her way through life. She knows she's different and she has special healing powers and uses them to help people. She also knows that something dark is after her. She just doesn't know what. She lives in a humble, ratty apartment and keeps a low profile. Imagine her surprise when she discovers a man in her apartment and this man wants to take her to a place she's never heard of. In addition to that, he tells her that she is the Queen of Avalore. She is filled with doubt, but goes along with him. It wasn't as easy as that.
What she doesn't realize is this man is a dragon and Avalore is a real place. This dragon, Drake, doesn't do full shift changes as shifts happen in other books. He stays in human form for the most part with the powers of a dragon. Rhia also doesn't know she's got brothers, although she'd dreamed about these guys her whole life.
Getting Rhia back to Avalore is a feat unto itself that involves Drake and her brothers getting involved with nefarious creatures and bloody battles. She's still not sure she is who they think she is, but soon discovers the truth and goes against one of their esteemed traditions, taking great risk to do it.
I enjoyed this book. I was drawn into the story and wanted to find out what happened next. I cared about the characters and found myself cheering for them and sharing their heartbreaks. It's fast-paced and well written with just a few errors that did not take away from the reading experience at all.
Great book!
August 2, 2021
Loved it, but Issues...
Loved it, but have issues. One her being a Soothsayer(sp?) Doesn't make sense as it is more of a witch or human with magical abilities than a magical creature. Later, she is somehow Dragon instead of, or in top of, a Soothsayer. A mash up that doesn't seem possible because she should either be a soothsayer or a Phoenix, at the very least a half breed of those two, but half breeds don't seem to exist in this universe. So again, how is she a dragon?
Then the ending doesn't make sense because according to the book, Elders choose the mate, but they are predestined mates so they can't be "chosen." Then we find out about a pointless clause that would allow a woman to "choose" her "predestined" mate, but find out once they perform the joining, if it works, they were mates, if not then they are not making the elders wrong. it sounds like no matter who the elders chose, it's up to destiny for them to work. If not Brody would have been her mate and not Drake.then the stipulations on becoming the clause were stupid because what would have happened if Brody didn't agree and pushes forth with the joining? It still would have failed, then what would have been their plan? The Queen would be cut off from finding her true mate, while he would be free to find his? That's stupid. There's just too many questions left open and plot holes that need plugged up, otherwise I would have given it a 4 or 5 star review.
Loved it, but have issues. One her being a Soothsayer(sp?) Doesn't make sense as it is more of a witch or human with magical abilities than a magical creature. Later, she is somehow Dragon instead of, or in top of, a Soothsayer. A mash up that doesn't seem possible because she should either be a soothsayer or a Phoenix, at the very least a half breed of those two, but half breeds don't seem to exist in this universe. So again, how is she a dragon?
Then the ending doesn't make sense because according to the book, Elders choose the mate, but they are predestined mates so they can't be "chosen." Then we find out about a pointless clause that would allow a woman to "choose" her "predestined" mate, but find out once they perform the joining, if it works, they were mates, if not then they are not making the elders wrong. it sounds like no matter who the elders chose, it's up to destiny for them to work. If not Brody would have been her mate and not Drake.then the stipulations on becoming the clause were stupid because what would have happened if Brody didn't agree and pushes forth with the joining? It still would have failed, then what would have been their plan? The Queen would be cut off from finding her true mate, while he would be free to find his? That's stupid. There's just too many questions left open and plot holes that need plugged up, otherwise I would have given it a 4 or 5 star review.
June 28, 2019
After a slowish start, this book grabs the readers attention and doesn't let go. In the beginning Adams does a lot of explanation which I think slows her pacing down. However, her world building is good and she's crafted an interesting world. There's dragons, a princess, and a destined mate - who isn't the main character. Without giving spoilers, her characters are believable and her plot is plausible. The female main character is strong in her beliefs and her abilities for the most part. At one point, she realizes she may not end up with the guy she wants and is a bit pathetic but ... well I can't say more without giving things away. Let's just say she throws off the pathetic and kicks some butt. This was a really good dragon story - though more dragons are always a good thing. The heat in the book is steamy but not over the top. She's got a good balance of sex, plot, danger, and characters.
February 23, 2025
Rhiannon knows she's different since the day she was born and has hidden her difference all her life. She's been on the run ever since her mother died four years ago. Drake is a warrior from another land outside of the world we know. He has been sent to find the heir of his country. When he finds Rhia she is battling a monster and he joins in without her knowing of his presence. When he finally introduces himself to her and tells her who she is to him she is shocked beyond belief. She promises to go with him to Avalore and find out for sure if she is the queen they have been seeking for years. In the process of Rhia learning who she really is she meets her brothers, her father, Drakes sister, and the people she should rule. But she also fall's in love with the man who found her and brought her home. There are many obstacles in their way but there love will be their true binding.
July 4, 2017
Slow but emotional
Call of the Dragon is a slow starter. But with a little patience it is worth the read. Adams spends a lot of time developing the main characters, the overall culture and series set up. This makes the pacing slow to start. However, afterwards readers will find lots of action, passion and a hero that is not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. Dragons actually play a minor role in this story so even non shifter Romance fans will enjoy this. The sex really isn't that graphic or excessive. The bond between the two leads is more emotional than physical. It the kind of story that leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling when you finish.
Call of the Dragon is a slow starter. But with a little patience it is worth the read. Adams spends a lot of time developing the main characters, the overall culture and series set up. This makes the pacing slow to start. However, afterwards readers will find lots of action, passion and a hero that is not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. Dragons actually play a minor role in this story so even non shifter Romance fans will enjoy this. The sex really isn't that graphic or excessive. The bond between the two leads is more emotional than physical. It the kind of story that leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling when you finish.
July 15, 2023
Rhiannon
Rhiannon is all alone in the world since her mother was killed 4 years ago. Rhia believes that she's a freak of nature because of her power to take in energy and use it to attack evil creatures like the one who killed her mother.
Rhia is fighting such a creature when she receives help from an unseen entity. After the creature is dead she learns she is not alone in this world and that she is not of this world from Drake, the entity that helped her kill the creature.
Will she decide to return to her own world? Will they make it to their world alive? What else will they habe to face alone and/or together?
Rhiannon is all alone in the world since her mother was killed 4 years ago. Rhia believes that she's a freak of nature because of her power to take in energy and use it to attack evil creatures like the one who killed her mother.
Rhia is fighting such a creature when she receives help from an unseen entity. After the creature is dead she learns she is not alone in this world and that she is not of this world from Drake, the entity that helped her kill the creature.
Will she decide to return to her own world? Will they make it to their world alive? What else will they habe to face alone and/or together?
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