Champion of the Fallen

Rivenworld #2

by M.L. Spencer

Aram and Markus's story continues as they fight enemies both Above and Below…

When war comes to Skyhome itself, Aram has no choice but to flee. An ancient evil, more powerful than anything he has ever faced, has marked him as its target, threatening everyone and everything he holds dear. Separated from Markus and Calise, he journeys to the one place where the knowledge he desperately needs still the Void between worlds, where the memories of fallen civilizations await.

In this new heart-stirring epic, journey with Aram and his dragon Agaroth on a quest to learn the secrets of the ancients.

And with Calise, who has been swept away to a dangerous land where she must explore her own wild magic and confront the shadows within herself.

And with Markus, as he searches to find a purpose without the Champion he has sworn to protect.

The dangers ahead are too vast for any one Champion to face. Only together can they hope to defend and heal their Riven World.

Genres: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Dragons, Fiction, Science Fiction Fantasy, Adult

853 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 31, 2026

About the author

M.L. Spencer is an epic fantasy author. Her debut novel Darkmage won the 2012 IndieReader Discovery Award for Fantasy, and her novel Dragon Mage won the 2021 Readers' Favorite Gold Award for Fantasy.

Reviews

[Book Library Vault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Didnt sleep because of this book and went so far that a friend asked me if he should feed me while i am reading.
The first book really put the bar HIGH but this book did some pierouettes,before easily doing a backflip over the bar! I find it fascinating that the book again nailed the pacing,i never felt like „oh man i wish i could skip this“ or „hold up hold up wtf is going on“,the timings were just chefs kiss,i got my time to delve deep to understand moments or motives but also it went peeww when it was the right time (way to often at the second book authors struggle with it).

i dont want to say more cause you cant speak without spoiling,but i have to make an appointement with my dentist cause my jaw is HURTING!!!

[James’ RocBottomReviews 🐦‍⬛ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion of the Fallen is the long awaited sequel of indie sensation Dragon Mage. Like many, many others I was swept away in 2021 and have been itching to get back into this world.

The biggest question would be whether Champion of the Fallen would measure up to its predecessor.

I’m happy to announce that at least for me, it most certainly did.

We find out in a hurry that what seemed like the victory of victories was in fact just a battle in this world. Certainly not the war. Our hero has garnered some attention though. He’s about to find out how overmatched he really is.

This has all the wonderful dragon bonding, flights and battles that mesmerized in book one. The deep friendships and incredible emotion that pulls its readers heartstrings. Some amazing new characters and some old threats leave you not knowing who to trust.

It’s also got some crazy time travel, dazzling magic and best of all scary cool villains. One dark terrifying assassin you will not forget. This guy is badass. It’s a dark YA which I adore.

In all, a blitz of action, thrills and heart. As soon as I finished the ebook I immediately ordered the paperback.

IMO this stands up with the very best of YA fantasy.

This one’s a keeper and belongs on my shelves.

5 amazing stars.

[Annie♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Champion of the Fallen by M.L. Spencer, the second book in the Rivenworld series, completely exceeded my expectations. This series truly deserves far more attention than it gets.

It’s honestly one of the most underrated fantasy series I’ve read.

The magic system alone is one of the most unique I’ve ever read—built around colors and threads in a way that feels both intricate and alive. It’s the kind of system that is deeply thought-out, where every detail matters. Add in the layered politics between powerful factions, and it creates a world that feels massive, complex, and real.

The worldbuilding is phenomenal, but what really makes it stand out is how vividly it’s written. You don’t just read about this world—you see it. The brilliance of the colors, the weaving of threads, the creeping darkness and corruption—it’s all so atmospheric and immersive.

I love the multiple POVs—they give each perspective real depth and purpose. I genuinely love these characters, their bond with each other, and their connection to the dragons. The main character especially means a lot to me. Seeing a neurodivergent protagonist portrayed with such care and nuance really hit home and reminded me of my son, making this story even more special to me.

I also just want to say how grateful I am to M.L. Spencer—not only for sending me a physical ARC, but for being so kind and taking the time to listen to me ramble about this world and these characters. She’s incredibly talented, and it shows on every page of this book.

If you love dragon fantasy, intricate magic systems, and character-driven stories with real emotional weight, you need to pick this series up.

This is my favorite dragon fantasy series—yes, I’ve said it! I can’t recommend Dragon Mage and Champion of the Fallen enough.

[LambchoP]

One of my most anticipated sequels! Hope it's not too long of a wait, I Absolutely loved Dragon Mage.

We need a cover reveal! :)

[Blaise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was given ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review. The long awaited sequel to Dragon mage finally enters the world and it doesn’t disappoint! Loved the characters, progression, of the story, and of course the writing style. Only thing to note is the story will not go where you expect it too. Plus that ending! So much to look forward too! Cheers!

[Sam]

When is it released?

[Callum McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome, wanting more.

It is a rare feat for a sequel to not only live up to a stellar debut but to actively sprint past it. In Champion of the Fallen, M.L. Spencer delivers a masterclass in "Middle Book Magic," expanding the scope of the Chaos of the Gods series while narrowing the emotional focus until it hurts.
​If you’re like most readers who just finished this ride, you’re likely staring at the wall wondering how we’re supposed to wait for Book 3. Here is a breakdown of why this installment hits so hard.
​
The Review: Stakes, Scars, and Shadows
​Evolution of the Hero
​Spencer has a particular talent for putting her protagonists through the emotional ringer. In this volume, we see a shift from the reactive survival of the first book to a more proactive, yet deeply burdened, leadership. The "Champion" title isn’t just a cool label; it’s a heavy, jagged weight that influences every decision.
​
World-Building & Lore
​While the first book introduced us to the world, Champion of the Fallen rips the veil back. We get:
• ​Deeper Pantheons: A more nuanced look at the gods and the terrifying cost of their "gifts."
• ​Grimdark Elegance: The prose remains sharp and visceral. Spencer doesn’t shy away from the brutality of war, but she balances it with moments of profound, quiet character growth.
​
The Pacing
​The narrative tension is coiled like a spring. Every time you think the characters might get a moment to breathe, the political landscape shifts or a new supernatural threat emerges. It’s a relentless pace that makes the final chapters feel like a downhill slide into a beautiful, chaotic abyss.
​Why the Wait for Book 3 is Going to Be Tough
​The ending of Champion of the Fallen leaves several threads vibrating with tension. Spencer is known for her "convergence" style—where multiple plot lines collide in a high-octane finale—and she sets the stage here for a third book that promises to be nothing short of apocalyptic.
​
The Verdict: A rare 5-star sequel. It’s darker, grander, and more emotionally resonant than its predecessor. M.L. Spencer continues to prove why she’s a titan in the indie epic fantasy scene.

[Eddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved DragonMage and was happy to receive an ARC of book two. Loved it!
Aram, Markus, and Calise end up on different paths, that keep you reading with edge of seat experiencing their struggles along the way. Like the first of the series, this second one is as exciting and you feel the pain and plight of all it's characters, dragons included. Will definitely continue the series.

[Rachel Young]

Seeing this release date announced in my email this morning made my entire day.

Does my world need more epic fantasy, dragon stories with neurodivergent protagonists, amazing world-building, and exquisite writing? Why yes, yes it does. Am I salivating in anticipation of this release (and have been since I discovered Dragon Mage three years ago)? Why yes, yes I am.

Pre-order: ✅
Schedule cleared for 3/31: ✅
Reread of Dragon Mage (book 1) initiated: ✅
Rabid Fangirl mode activated: ✅

BRING IT ON, ML SPENCER!!!!!!!!!

[Miriam O'Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exceptional read, I loved it from start to finish.
5 years ago I devoured Dragon Mage in the space of a few days and felt I had discovered a new level in Fantasy excellence - well, Champion of the Fallen continues that story, adds to it, develops it, broadens it and adds so many layers it just blew me away.
I was planning a reread of Dragon Mage before starting Champion but I was offered an arc so I dived straight in. I think in 5 years I had forgotten certain details, so when I do reread the two books I know I will get even more out of it.
Aram and Markus are two of my favourite characters ever, their bond is so wholesome, their loyalty to eachother is brilliantly written.
There were so many twists and shocks in Champion, things I did not see coming, every time I put it down I couldn’t help but think about it, this is epic fantasy at its absolute best.
And great news - it ended suddenly with everything poised to kick off in book 3, and I can’t wait.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aram and Markus's story continues in this epic follow up from book one! The world building continues to be so descriptive and beautiful and draws you in, the multiple pov gives depth and uniqueness and the characters, well we love these characters, their bond and their connections to the dragons. Is an exciting storyline, dark, emotional and a little tense and it has you on the edge of your seat the whole ride!

[Vincent Latona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

Wonderful layers of story and emotion! I can’t wait to see where it goes next in this fantastic saga. Must Read

[᧔ L ᧓]

The cover <3

[Jerry · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were a lot of great story lines, clever challenges...but there were so many plot oddities (I hesitate to call them inconsistencies) and the characters simply did not stay consistent. On one page ALL Powerful, the next confused simpering wimps.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an intricate web! Spun so brilliantly, I was caught in the delicate web, bound like a fly, except I didn't want to escape! No one is as they appear, no one is who they were, circumstances dictate what they must do, history dictates what they must avoid, the very future of the world depends on it.

This is a fabulous continuation of Dragon Mage, once again each and every character filled out perfectly. The pacing was incredibly well done, it ebbed and flowed in just the right places to really sink deep within me, to feel them, to see it, to experience everything the characters do. The world building felt smooth and seamless and the plot progression was superb. There were absolutely no stagnant moments at all. Ms Spencer took over my mind, completely, for the duration of this read, she sure did have me going "what the heck???" a few times with the twists, which I honestly wasn't expecting. Like Sergan??? Heck I was floored! And Logarin, I was not expecting him to seek out Aram and I certainly wasn't expecting the revelations that he spewed forth! Brilliant brilliant twist! I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop but it didn't drop how I expected it, hells, it just got more complex, as characters appeared. Geez, when Raginor tells Aram another truth, my jaw dropped! This author delivered a full glutinous meal, each course better than the next, like the bonds that built, and showed, between Marcus and Aram which is a thing of beauty, which makes THAT "fight" even more realistic. Both characters held a sliver of my heart, I wanted to cry a few times, I did cry a few times... fighting assassins, fighting to stay whole and true to themselves, I didn't for a moment assume I knew where this tale was heading, because the author twisted it another 360 at every turn. Whoa excellent! I love how the author depicted all the characters, Esmir and Astia are wonderful, Esmir I can feel his despair, Astia I can feel her exuberance, she's an absolute delight. Then the boat ride through the swamps had me barely breathing! I was seriously worried for Aram and Agaroth, tense and terrifying and then Ms Spencer turned it around again! The drama escalates, the suspense intensifies, I'm caught off guard so many times, heck, I wasn't prepared for the events in Daro! I was unprepared for much of the read, Markus, Calise, oh my heck!

Aram, I adored from book 1, I felt him to my core, his motivation, his dedication, his PTSD, his inability to allow anyone to suffer for him, his sense of right. I adore his bravery, his sense of right burning brighter and fiercer that even dragon fire. He would never allow others to suffer in his place, to suffer because of him, so he does the only thing he can do, he goes back to the very place he was tortured. He's confronted by so many "truths", by those who tortured him, sapped him, and OMG, my jaw dropped at at the mind bend of discoveries! Aram in just awesome, so unique. He notices everything, panics internally, and acts calm anyway. He's an exasperated, under qualified problem-solver who cares deeply and he's autistic. He sees things others can't, he does things others can't. Aram discovers the truth on his journey into the void, The Sundering had physically shattered the world. Actually shattered it—broken it into pieces. The world had literally been torn apart. Aram weighs his odds up carefully, heavy on his shoulders, he's the only one who can try and reverse what has happened, because, as he says, “In my time, the Archons are winning. I am all that’s left to stop them. No one else. Just me.I’m the last of us. And I’m…I don’t know what I’m doing. That’s why I came here. To learn." But what he learns nearly shatters him anew.The convergence of the fractured past with the fractured present, sublimely penned!

The complexities of the characters cannot be captured by simple words, they are layered upon layered. These characters are so incredible, too banal a word to use but the only one I can come up with, Ms Spencer gives them all a truism, an intricate role, a vital part of a gorgeous and complex story that spans different worlds and realities. Archon's, gods and deities trying to outdo the other, humans caught in their crossfire, betrayals of the highest order, by the most unlikely of them, and a quest for knowledge of the very fabric of magic. Gee whiz, Aram navigates uncharted waters, dangerous waters, the world depends on it. I love that we get to see how Aram's mind works, his extraordinary senses at full hilt. His excitement at being able to understand what he instinctively did, see patterns. He's alone for much of this book, Markus is held captive, Calise is on her own journey, another twisty twist is where she ends up! Like oh my heck nooooo! Poor Calise, all she wanted was to be a healer, have a life, a husband, kids, but fate kicks her right in the teeth, as Luvana says, “Life has a way of choosing us, not the other way around. Because it’s not about what we want. It’s about what the world needs us to be." Both Calise and Aram are forced to choose, they are driven worlds apart, literally, for duty, for friendship, to learn and hone their skills. Their fledgeling romance has to take a major back seat as they venture into the unknown. This is a multi POV, exceptionally penned, I felt everything each one was going through, their despair, their resilience, their distress, my word, the awful conundrum Calise faces, day in and day out, had my heart in tatters! Her fear of letting the ancient magic out, weighed against the torture of Zandril is so credible, I can taste her helplessness. As I could them all. Erok, Raginor, brothers, descendants of gods, these two men loved each other with a devotion that ultimately broke the world.

There truly is much to appreciate and to grasp in this spectacular read, it's impossible to convey the majesty of this book, impossible to attempt to capture what this read did to me emotionally. From despair to hope to shattered, only to go through the same over and over, as I lived through them all. Saw them grow, saw their strength taking the upper hand. Golly do I admire and love Aram for not allowing defeat to override him! The exchange with Erok, violent and gory, it showed how resilient and resolute he is, how determined to learn, to never give up. As we follow Aram, Calise and Markus, we see the vileness of some and, dare I say, the redemption of others, like...Sergan, although, I'm still on the fence about him. Oh my heck, those last few chapters I couldn't swallow, my tongue felt too thick, the tension! There wasn't a dull moment! Not once! I loved the twists Ms Spencer threw in, heavens help me, I didn't see them coming! Like whoa, mindboggling! Calise? Earthshattering! All the characters are so credible, their reaction to real fear and consequences tangible, I felt every single traumatic thought, I felt every single blow, I felt every single traumatic thought, I felt every single blow, I felt every single thing! Oh my heck, those last few chapters I couldn't swallow, my tongue felt too thick, the tension! There wasn't a dull moment! Not once! I loved the twists Ms Spencer threw in, heavens help me, I didn't see them coming! At the end I was agog! All the characters are so credible, their reaction to real fear and consequences tangible. Credible.

This review was not easy to compile, there was much I wanted to say, there was too much I HAD to say, edit after editing myself, this poor rendition hopefully will give you a glimpse of this exceptional read! This book speaks to the author's immense talent, that I felt as though someone thrust a spear through my heart, I swear I could smell the stench from the hole, the toxic Wellspring Calise, Iver and Corley discover in the woods, so vivid! But hells bells I was in physical pain from the onslaught of events! This prose is incredibly graphic and sharp, I cried as though it has happened to me, she sure don't pull her punches! I love the way Ms Spencer keeps building the plot, twisting it in as many knots as Aram can visualise, tightening them like a noose. This was a gorgeous, intricate read, not as dark as DM, but still devastatingly, deliciously dark and unputdownable!

[P.L. Stuart · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been five years since 'Dragon Mage', Book One in 'Rivenworld' was published. Decorated author M.L. Spencer's best-known work is an Indie darling, one of the most hyped self-published fantasy books to come along in recent memory. And in my opinion, having read it, it certainly lives up to the hype. 

The only thing that could possibly be more ballyhooed would be a sequel to 'Dragon Mage'. And it is now we find ourselves blessed with that sequel: 'Champion of the Fallen'. Did this greatly anticipated follow-up live up to incredibly lofty expectations? Absolutely!

I was privileged to receive an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of the book, in exchange for an honest review, which I have provided here. 

In 'Champion of the Fallen', our beloved heroes Markus and Aram are far from safe in their new denizen of Skyhome, as an attempted abduction, following a fierce battle, leads to forced separation of the pair. These events catapult the Champion and his Warden into unfathomable risk. Beset by enemies who seemingly return from the dead, powerful archons, unbeatable warriors, and frightening creatures, things seem hopeless, in the face of portentous foretelling.

Can prophecy be avoided, and the future be changed? Or is it doomed to simply repeat, over and over again, in catastrophic failure? Will they manage to overcome the daunting tasks before them, survive, and save the world? Or, like their famous predecessors, Erok and Raginor, brothers and scion of gods, will their very devotion be turned against them, and the world, and shatter it anew?

Spencer's characterization remains top-notch. Aram and Marcus continue to be some of the best-drawn and most memorable bros since Frodo and Sam. But what made this book truly special was the emphasis on Calise's POV - she is an incredible character, and her often harrowing journey was perhaps my favourite part of the book. Yet, having all three of them on their distinct missions was fabulous, and really ratcheted up the tension and angst, hoping each could survive, and be reunited.

Aram remains the hero we all can admire, for so many reasons. I continue to appreciate the sensitive manner in which Spencer approaches Aram's neurodiversity. We see how he copes with anxiety, and how his determination, courage, altruism, and nobility shine through in every circumstance - that he will not allow himself to fail, not so much for himself, but for others.

Secondary characters such as Esmir, Illith, and Astia do not disappoint, and of course, the various dragons such as Aragoth and Sirtoth, and their unique personalities and character traits are prominently and delightfully featured.

In terms of the worldbuilding, it becomes much more expanded than in the first novel. We learn the truth behind the sundering of worlds, and why and how the Worlds Above and Below, and the Void, came to be. Yet there is an even greater danger imperiling humankind, than all three planes of existence being riven once more. And Aram may be the only one capable of saving all. With his faithful dragon Agaroth by his side, once again Aram must combat the archons (evil mages) who seek to wreak havoc, for the sake of ruthless power and ambition.

We witness various separate quests of the characters, and they undergo so much during this novel, as they attempt to save themselves, save each other, and find a way back to those they love. Characters are imprisoned, enslaved, tortured, mistrusted, revered, educated, stalked, murdered, and find themselves in so many dire and unpredictable situations: caught in the middle of assassination attempts, underground revolutions, political machinations and court politics, ancient prophecies, and even time loops! But let's focus for a moment on one of the primary reasons you will read this book and series: unabashed love of dragons.

Dragons have become a signal in any fantasy work, broadcasting to the reader "here comes TRULY epic fantasy". We are enthralled by the concept of these most formidable of creatures, beasts of legend, mystery, inordinate power and destructive capability, beauty, and awe. And we can't get enough of them in our epic fantasy books. One of the greatest tropes with dragons, the use of which has grown to a fever pitch in modern times, and inspired cult-like devotion, is where the dragons become deeply bonded partners with those humans who ride them, through some sort of telepathic connection, and thus the dragons have become protagonists in their own right. Many of us have come to absolutely adore this trope. And concerning that trope which enamours so many readers, I had mentioned in my review of 'Dragon Mage' that Spencer sets "the gold standard" for me (and many), along with G.R.R. Martin, in terms of dragon-bonding, and dragon warfare. Now, I feel we must add Ryan Cahill's 'Bound and the Broken' series as a superlative when it comes to that element. But that does not diminish whatsoever how incredibly Spencer writes dragon battles, and the link between dragonriders and their mounts.

No less chonky than its predecessor, you will breeze through this book effortlessly, propelled by the smooth and eloquent yet very accessible prose of the author. Driven forward through scenes of breathtaking action, and very heartfelt and surprisingly dark and poignant moments, the unfailing loyalty exhibited by main characters Aram, Marcus, Calise, and those who care about them; the enemies who become allies; the shocking evil and callousness of the antagonists; the murky and unsure motivations and potential untrustworthy characters like Illith; the betrayals and twists; the beautiful reunions, new friendships, found-family dynamics, and tender, burgeoning romance, or well-established and mature relationships; the moments of tragedy and triumph; and the sheer headiness of the adventure that transcends time and essentially other worlds, as dragons soar through the ether, is utterly captivating.

‘Champion of the Fallen' will give you everything you were looking for in this type of book, and in this type of sequel, and so much more. I think SFF readers are simply so thrilled to have such a brilliant follow-up to 'Dragon Mage', in 'Champion of the Fallen', that we're just living in the "here and now", and savouring this marvellous triumph of a book. Yet I, for one, cannot help but look to the future, because this book will leave the reader so hungry for more.

Whenever the follow-up to 'Champion of the Fallen' arrives, be it five months, five years or fifteen, I will be eagerly awaiting it until then. This series, and this author, are clearly must-reads, for some of the best things we love about epic fantasy. 

Definitely, a book-of-the-year contender for me, as things stand at the time of this review!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was absolutely worth the wait! It was great to return to Rivenworld and reconnect with Aram, Markus, and Calise. Spencer does not spend long on the reunion, but rather throws the reader not only into the action almost immediately, but fundamentally resets our expectations around Aram's powers and where he sits in the world.

The story is just as much a page-turner as Dragon Mage was, but it also manages to fill in a ton of worldbuilding that had been hinted at in Dragon Mage but is now much more fully fleshed out. Aram, Markus, and Calise end up having their own (somewhat) independent arcs in this novel and it really shows how broad the world is and how much lore was left to be explored from the first novel. Without spoiling anything, I'll say that the design of the Void was absolutely mind-bending and unexpected.

I found the novel to be somewhat grittier (in a good way) than Dragon Mage, reflecting the increased stakes and the move from a child's hero's journey in the first novel to dealing with Aram as an adult facing the consequences of his actions in the first novel and of the conflict he accidentally stumbled into (or, had thrust upon him).

As good as Spencer's worldbuilding and pacing is, her character development is similarly powerful, giving us real, fleshed-out characters that we get to know in more depth. Old friends and old enemies are reintroduced and expanded on, and new characters with unique voices serve to drive the story and grow the world.

The magic system is innovative and fully thought-out, way beyond what was introduced in Dragon Mage and represents a real technical view into what was merely hinted at in the earlier book. Fans of both hard and soft magic systems should find plenty to sink their teeth into in this novel.

So worth the wait and I can't wait for volume 3!

[Laure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaaaarrrrrrg!

I did not want this book to end. Wow, I don’t know where to start but let me just say that I will not write a book to review this book. Aram, Calise, and Markus will each have their own dangerous journeys to survive. Aram has been targeted by an ancient evil who wants him dead and he will travel with Agaroth, his dragon, to the void between the worlds where he can learn ancient secrets of magic in order to defeat the evil being hunting him. Markus finds himself trapped, and once again forced to protect the mage he despises. Calise has her own challenges when she is forced into a land she knows nothing about but will also find out more about the wild magic inside herself that terrifies her.
I could go on and on about these absolutely fantastic characters but instead I will just say that they are all fascinating and I loved every single one of them. They are all so engaging that it was difficult to put this book down. This is an epic fantasy adventure with magic, dragons, betrayal, and so many unexpected and surprising twists in the plot that I was left reeling. I loved this book and I would give it 10 stars if I could. I am already looking forward to the next book in the Rivenworld series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this epic fantasy book so much I just had to read it in one sitting as I could not put it down. It is a heartbreaking tale about the champion Aramon and his dragon Aragoth, and that of his warden and closest friend Markus and Siroth his dragon, who live in Skyhome. Until the day Illith Kumaro, the sorceress and an exilari, with eyes the colour of the creatures from the void, comes in search of Aram. She wants to take him to the world above, but Aram had already experienced great torture in the world above where he had been imprisoned for four years. Also an assassin turns up to kill Aram, because he had in turn killed an Archon, but in the end Markus gets taken instead of Aram leaving his friend and Siroth devastated, then Aram goes in search for him traveling to the void together with both dragons, in a very perilous journey which nearly cost them their lives. Both men end up being kept in the void apart, and used as pawns in a game of power between mages, Archons and others. Our three young heroes Aram the champion, Markus his shield, and Calise his beloved, who are tied to one another through love, loyalty and duty are taken on different and challenging journeys, whereby they learn more about themselves and their strengths, but will these be enough to save one another from the challenges they are facing, and will they be able to save their world from the tyranny of the power hungry archons. I love this excellent and riveting book which just leaves me wanting to read on. Ms. Spencer writes dark and gritty epic fantasy at its best with heartbreaking scenes about the bonds between dragons and their bonded riders which many a time brought me to tears. This is a must read book.

[Griffin Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 Stars!

Really solid sequel to Dragon Mage. I thought there was a lot of interesting character development and plot progression in this book, as well as some cool worldbuilding stuff that gave us a lot more context for this world and its history.

It would have been nice to see certain main characters get to spend more time together in this book, but I understand that this was the part of the story where they kind of need to each do their own thing, and self-discovery was certainly a big theme of Champion of the Fallen. I'm confident we'll get to see more of those character interaction in book 3, and assuming this will be a trilogy, I think this entry did a really good job of setting up a great conclusion in the next book.

[Mary Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great bridge book to the series! Just when we thought Aram was settling in, more chaos has erupted. He finds himself in much danger and searching for Markus who is in danger as well. Calise had to made a tough decision which leaves her broken hearted and uncertain as to what the future may hold. This is an emotional book for all three characters and you find yourself deep into the three parallel strands of the story of Aram, Markus, and Calise. The plot flows well and you do feel badly for all three of them, as well as their dragons,as they are in quite the predicaments!

[Dion · Rating 5 out of 5]

finished this book in around 2 days.
i just was so hooked from beginning to end and didn't want to put this book down.

It felt so nice to read about these characters again especially Aram is my favorite. As someone who has Autism himself it feels so amazing to read about someone like you as the protagonist in your favourite genre.
further i just love the way dragons are used in this series.

Further i find the magic system so intriguing and refreshing, things like the wellspring and revelations in this book where so well done.
I'm looking forward to reading book 3 when it comes out.

[Silvia Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read, 10 of out 10!! If you love epic fantasy, this one is for you. The world building, the epic quest, the complex characters. Spencer has achieved a story so complex and beautiful, words fail me. This story contains three POV’s; Aram, Calise and Markus. Calise’s story was so unexpected but welcomed. What each character went through will tear out your heart. I can’t wait for the next book. I highly recommend this series.

[Landon Ragusa · Rating 5 out of 5]

*8.5/10
A solid second entry from Spencer. I enjoyed this book more than the first. The POV chapters now include Calise, and I’m interested to see how her story will fit into the overall narrative after the awful things she went through in the book. We also got a greater glimpse into the Archons and their motives. The Fractal section was confusing at times, and I’m not a huge fan of Adam inheriting new magic power “just because.” But, overall I’m excited to see where the series goes from here.

[Grace]

Wonderful return to Rvenworld, looking forward to 2027.

It's wonderful to see when a writer regains their spirit through help of others. As readers we often patiently wait for the next opportunity to once again see their stories come alive for our enjoyment. Being an avid reader who appreciates a writer's unique skills of imagination, I continue to find Rvenworld a beautiful rendition of a story arc. An arc that keeps you engaged and looking forward to the next release.

[Kyarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's gripping in the most heartbreaking and badass way. I love that her books have a beautiful balance of grief and power.

Everything her characters go through and what they become feel absolutely earned.

This book is to be read with care and patience, not rushed. Sit where there is daylight, because her writing can draw you in making you forget your world exists.

[Jacob Davidhizar · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

This book was fun to read, it really adds a lot of character development and I was hooked through all 850 pages of this book. I have never read a fantasy book with the magic system described the same way that Spencer did. This felt like a more in depth magic system than I am used to reading and it was refreshing to finally read something unique.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good. Now I’m probably gonna reread this book 2 or 3 more times while waiting for void dancer!!


I really like how these characters have a “heart”. Idk how to explain it. Sometimes i feel annoyed when authors switch to different povs in a book. In this one i didn’t. so invested with everyone’s story. Love this series so much.

[Dorothy · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 50% - I loved the first book in this series (gave it 5 stars) but when the second book comes out over 5 years later, so much has been forgotten. I did appreciate the recap in the beginning of this book (still couldn't make sense of all that was happening), but at 856 pages, this was too long with way too many side stories. Sadly, I just could not get into this second book.