Traitor

Dragonrider Chronicles #3

by Nicole Conway

No amount of training has prepared Jaevid Broadfeather for the frontlines of battle. Now facing the true horrors of war, with Luntharda looming on the horizon, Jaevid has begun to question everything he thought about his heritage. The only thing keeping him going is his oath to protect his dragonrider brothers. But in an instant, even that slips through Jaevid's fingers as he steps from the safety of his dragon's saddle into the depths of his mother's wild homeland—the kingdom of the gray elves. Stranded in Luntharda with his partner Lieutenant Jace Rordin, Jaevid must finally confront the demons of his own past as he uncovers the truth about a war that began before he was ever born. Armed with a new appreciation for destiny, and flanked by his trusted friends, Jaevid moves to make the final strike against an enemy that has been hiding in plain sight for far too long. One kingdom's traitor will become the world's last hope.

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Young Adult, Magic, Middle Grade, Audiobook, Adventure

418 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2016

About the author

Nicole Conway is originally from North Alabama and attended Auburn University. She is happily married and enjoys writing as a full time career.

Best known for her international bestselling fantasy series, THE DRAGONRIDER CHRONICLES - Nicole is currently working on a follow-on series, THE DRAGONRIDER LEGACY. Her other published works include MAD MAGIC, THE DISTANCE BETWEEN STARS, SCALES (Releasing Spring 2019), and RENEGADE RUNNER (2021).


Nicole is represented by Fran Black of Literary Counsel.

Reviews

[Mandy Sickle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received Traitor in return for an honest review as part of the tour hosted by Chapter by Chapter. It’s been a rough start for Jaevid as a half breed dragon rider but he’s proved he has what it takes to make it as one. Sent to a new base to fight the war against the grey elf’s he is partnered up with Jace who is an experienced rider having killed the son’s of the grey elf king. At least Jaevid won’t be alone at the new base Felix arrives just after him to join the ranks. While getting settled at their new outpost Jaevid even get’s a chance to check in on his half-brother who’s joining the infantry.

When the call comes to send them off to fight they grey elves it’s time for Jaevid to confront his destiny one that has been a planned for a long time to change everything. While his mother was alive Jaevid never really asked about her past why she left the elves and took residency with the humans. When his partner is shot down by the princess of the grey elves it’s up to Jaevid to save him before it’s too late but in doing so he starts down the path that will change his life forever. Will Jaevid be able to do what he’s destined for or will his mom’s risk be all for nothing.

I adore Jaevid as a character he started as a boy torn between two worlds not really fitting in either but he makes it work finding his place. I admit I wasn’t sur about Jace we didn’t get to see a whole lot of him in the second book but he does prove to be a worth asset for Jaevid. I don’t have a lot of Felix or Beckah in this novel but we do have some interesting new characters to support Jaevid on his journey.

I’ve been eagerly waiting to get my hands on Traitor and as soon as I had it in my hands I decided to wait to read it with the husband. I ended up finishing it in one unable to wait for him to start it so we could read it together lie we did the prior two. The love the dragonrider concept it’s an intriguing story that captures the heart as well as the imagination. The characters are well developed I felt like I was really able to connect with Jaevid and even Jace. I’m anxiously waiting for the next novel in the series because this one leaves you wanting more. I truly enjoyed the two prior books but this one dives into the story of Jaevid’s mother’s side of the family which I enjoyed. Another beautifully written story by the author her storytelling is one of my favorite styles it’s smooth from start to finish. I can’t wait for the next novel I’m curious to see what’s going to happen next to my beloved characters. Highly recommend for fantasy of dragon and fantasy to check it out.

[One Man Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out my blog, One Man Book Club

The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained

Now here's a series your fantasy loving middle graders will love!

The Dragonrider books by Nicole Conway are marketed as two separate series.

The first four books are The Dragonrider Chronicles. They introduce the main characters and deliver the first story arc. The Dragonrider Legacy includes the final three books. This series continues the story of the main characters after a 40 year time jump, introduces new characters, delivers it's own story arc, and puts a nice bow on the conclusion of both series. Because the two series are so connected, I consider them one, seven book series.

The Dragonrider series isn't unique and it's quite formulaic. Not really any surprises here.

Unassuming, unloved boy gets accepted into Dragonrider school after a dragon chooses him to be his rider. The boy discovers he's the chosen one, destined to unite the people of the land, restore order and balance, overthrow the evil tyrant, and save the day. Twice. You know, because there are two series. The ending to the first story arc was meh, but the wrongs are righted in the end of the second story arc. Dues ex machina is the go to solution for the biggest problems.

But if the formula works, it works, and these stories work for their audience. The Dragonrider series are definitely story driven. It was enough to keep me interested through 7 books! Battles, mysteries, coming of age, magic, elves, first love, humor, friendship, bad guys, heroes.

Plus...dragons! Like I always say: dragons are the bacon of books--they make everything better!

The Dragonrider books are targeted for upper-middle grade fantasy fans and dragon lovers everywhere. Content appropriate for 10 and up.

Happy reading!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 Unicorns - I loved it!!!
***Received the ebook for an honest review

The cover is pretty cool! Her eyes and hair are beautiful!!

This is the 3rd book in the series. It is a young adult fantasy series with elves and dragons. I highly recommend reading the whole series in order.

This book was just as awesome as the rest of the series. Jae is definitely an awesome hero with tons of courage, but sometimes he is naïve. There were definitely plenty of surprises and times I was yelling “no” when things happened I didn’t want to. Nicole has a way of making the story come alive. I was so gripped in the story when it ended I was dumbfounded and not expecting it so soon. It definitely leaves you hanging and wanting for the next book.

I highly recommend this adventure to any adventurous soul who loves dragons, elves, mysterious creatures, and surprises all over the place. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

[Phoebe Prince · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traitor is the third installation in the Dragonriders Chronicles, following Fledgling and Avian. This series is not a trilogy, so don't expect the adventure to end here, which isn't a bad thing. I wanted to read the ending of this story, but I'm glad it wasn't rushed because Traitor was a surprising yet exciting installation in this series.

Jaevid goes to Northwatch to fight the Grey Elves with his former instructor and now flight partner, Jace. Jaevid is shocked by the war and the destruction it has caused along the boarder between the two kingdoms. Felix joins him on the front, where a man that could be his real father(!) is stationed. However, these relationships isn't tapped into in this novel because battle calls, and Jace and Ghost are knocked out of the sky over Luntharda. Jaevid dives down to save him, and they're both captured by the Grey Elves and their princess, Araxie.

Sometimes, new characters can destroy the flow of a series or take too much focus away from the main characters. Not so with Araxie. She's an important character, but she meshes fluidly into the existing world. She's another battle hardened badass, and she leads the interrogation of Jaevid and Jace. During his interrogation, Jaevid learns that the royal grey elf family, including Araxie, are his relatives. This doesn't sway their opinions, however, and they decide to deliver Jaevid and Jace to their forest god, Paligno. It's this god that saves Jaevid, awakening him to the full extent of his powers.

Jaevid has never had a family he really felt close to, considering his father, Ulric, is a cruel man and was possibly driven mad by stealing the god stone. Jaevid and Araxie learning to trust each other and discovering their familial bonds endeared me to them. Their relationship is also a neat way to introduce us to the world of Luntharda, which is a complete departure from the dragon rider academy atmosphere.

One thing that I saw coming and hoped to hell like it would happen was the relationship between Araxie and Jace. Some fantasy bungles the romance elements--hard--either by trying to make the relationships star-crossed or by only having a character there as a love/sex interest. In Avian, Jaevid/Beckah grew naturally from the plot and from who the two characters were. In Traitor, Araxie/Jace follows a similar pattern, but the personalities of the two characters make the relationship new and fresh. Both Jace and Araxie are battle hardened people, and their relationships builds around them learning how to put down their defenses and open up to each other. I liked their romance better than Jaevid/Beckah's, but the building of this relationship consumes a major part of this book, so if it doesn't jive for you, this entry in this series might not work as well for you.

Ultimately, most of this story takes place with Jaevid navigating the new world of Luntharda. A lot of plot elements are finally revealed, and Jaevid devises a plan to end the war. We don't learn this plan (next book!), and the second half of this story involves escaping Luntharda. Nothing happens with the major plot during this section, but there's a lot of character growth during this journey. The character, Kiran, from Fledgling, returns to escort to the boarder of Luntharda, and Kiran ultimately ends up following Jaevid to his human home out of loyalty. If you're interested in Kiran, there's a short story at the end about him.

[John Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dragonrider Chronicles has become one of my favorite series! This series is on par with Eragon and Dragonriders of Pern! If you are into fantasy, dragon, magic and elves this is the series for you! I highly recommend it! Nicole Conway is a great writer!

[Jan farnworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The opening to this third book in this amazing series has Jae finally coming to terms as much as he can with why "I am a dragonrider-not only because I have been choosen, but also because Blybrig had made me one". Avian training is over and done and now it time to put all that training to the test, and for Jae to take up his place in this war. Hope is what keeps him going as he tells his once love mate "As long as there's even one dragonrider, left to fight, then there's still hope"

As Jae gets ready to head off to take his part in the mission he has one more show down with Sile who Jae knows holds more answers that he been hiding. He uses his new found power to try and intimadate that information from Sile. Sile of course will have none of it "Don't try and intimidate me boy, I've seen better tricks then this." Sile does finally concede to telling him more about his mother and that he needs to make the journey to Lutharda, and perform a sacred ritual, so that he can truly gain control of his power.

Jae ends up being captured with Jace after a battle and he takes a journey you just have to read about to believe by the end of this story the war that is raging you will find not all is at seems and you been clamoring to know what is next in store for Jae as the ending of this 3rd book sets you up for what can only be described as death sentence if Jae can not pull of the impossible.

Thanks again for sharing this wonderful series with me and i waiting not so patiently for the next book.

[Robert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all 4 ? ?, read ALL books, 2 X's in time frame, dates listed. Excellent read ! Wish there was more! Taking a break at the on set of the war?? (1 Fledgling, Avian 2-Traitor 3, 87%-----13% of ____?____, Immortal, 4). I cannot Review all books and a 'hanging-participle separating' them somewhere.. Wish there was more. Some confusion referring to your books being for "Adolescent" books. I am reading, with my 8 year old Granddaughter and 69 yr old Papa, Both are enjoying H Potter immensely! Genevieve is like her Dad and Uncle Doug, just in 2nd and they are suggesting moving her to 3rd grade. My Sons Graduated from H.S. with 12 and 8 extra Credit hours. There is a point to this. Four years ago while watching Genevieve, put her to bed, they were all there (both Sons and Daughters (in-Law). Brian, Computer Science Major Grad and Doug with a Degree in Theatre and Psychology; Brian asks me "Hey Dad, want to watch a Harry Potter with us? "Sure, I have not seen or read one". I was afraid that they were All going to have a heart-attack! "NEVER?????" "NOPE." We were ALL going through Star Wars together. So I went home with all the HP books and all of the HP movies. Finished all, in two weeks - YOUR Chronicles are NOT kids shows! I was finished with The Inheritance /Eragon Box Set and lent them to my Sons---again recommended as Teen books --Brian and Doug had all of them on their Kindles for add on-reading in two weeks. 35 and 38. NOT teens. (Ava M. is porn). Returned that Set to Amazon the day after getting them. They are ALL going to LOVE your Chronicles. Thought provoking reading. Highs and lows, anticipation, innovating, laugh out loud parts, colorfully written and knowing that there were surprising parts kept me reading till six AM, often. GOOD STUFF Nicole. Your Chronicles are as good or better than Christopher Paolini (another improperly labeled) as Kids books? True Fiction. Poison, blood, fierce fighting, magic. What feeds kids minds??? OK Nicole, we have a War to finish, Beckah and Jae, and-----I am sure to read The Chronicles as often as Harry Potter (25 minimum, ferret out something new with each read and watching the movies. Reading about from all, Shades, again. Roran and Katrina. Looking forward to Jae and Mavrik and Beckah and Icarus, Felix, ALL of these GREAT characters -Ayra, Roran, Eragon, Saphira, Brom---makes me wish I was there--someday....... SO happy that you have tuned to being a Literature Artist! It fits you.

[Steven Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another solid story in the series...

While I can look at it as solid story it does have elements of bridge stories that we see in other series. That is books in a series that are more about setting up the final book while tiling up certain plot points of the series. It did in surprisingly short considering I first thought this was the final of the series and it ended at the 87% mark with an excellent as it turns out short story about the person who decides to tag along with our dragonrider in the end.

The author does set up a good story that ties up several plot points while pushing others along. There was a surprising Romance that developed rather quickly and considering the circumstances while sweet seems a bit unbelievable. All the same we do see growth in the main protagonist as he experiences some hard times.

Outside of the surprising Romance the only complaint I really have about the series itself is that the dragons do not take a central roll but rather a side roll in the series. Of course the story is not necessarily about the dragons so that is more of a personal frustration LOL.

A short story in the end is entertaining and sheds light on what had been a minor character in the series so far. During the brief moment when I realize the story was suddenly over, and I did not throw my phone, I was a little annoyed and it's presents but it turns out to add a depth to the minor character that raises the stakes in the next book well introducing another character.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars 🌟

This book takes a bit of a different direction. The main focus of most of this book is on Jae and Jace and the events when they enter the forest. I still am extremely frustrated about Sile's inability to tell Jae ANYTHING about his mother, his powers, his destiny...anything. And it is now very obvious that Sile knows all of that. Ugh....

Anyway, there are events in this book that made me emotional, and other events which are hard to read/listen to. But, it feels like everything is now becoming clear. Jae is learning about WHY he is able to do the things he can and more than that, he is learning HOW the war actually was started.

I will say this. I have liked the narrator for the last two books and felt like he did a really good job. But, for some reason, his voice for Jace really, REALLY bugged me. I have no reason why, it just did. I review a lot of audiobooks and very rarely comment on not liking the narrator so this was unusual. Because of this, I ended up reading most of this book instead of listening to it. Again, it is all personal preference, So, there is that.

This book again leaves us with a cliff hanger ending, but I'm already invested and can not wait to see how this ends up.

On to book 4.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jaevid has graduated from Blybrig, but now he's a soldier and Lieutenant. A war is occurring between humans and Grey Elves, putting Jae in the middle. He is just starting to understand he's more involved in this then he realizes, and its time he go to the Kingdom of Luntharda to meet his mother's family.
This is the best book in the series, so far! We get more time to get to know the Grey Elves, specifically Jae's own family. We see the changes in the relationships between Jae and his mentors Sile Derrick and Jace. We also get more development of Jace's character. I also adore the girl power in this series, especially in this book with Beccakah and another badass female character that is introduced halfway through. My only problem with this series is the how the author mostly 'tells' and doesn't always 'show', hence the four stars. Other than that I loved this and find it to be a fun, adventure story to read.

[Gaynell Buffinet · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Bit Disappointed

This book doesn't end the series. It could have, but it doesn't even really end. I was at 89% in the Kindle book. I turn the page from what I thought was a chapter ending and it dumps into a "how did you like this book?" Like hitting a brick wall. I swear I thought at first I got a defective download.

The author bio at the end of the first book said it was a trilogy, so I had no reason so far to think it wasn't, and the book seemed to be winding up to a conclusion that never happened. The last 10% was a sample of another book, which at this point seems like a deceptive twist.

The story and characters were interesting, which is why I give it a 3, though my expectations were dashed. I'm not sure if I trust the author enough now to get the next book.

There were more typos and errors after the last half of the book, like it was rushed or the editor gave up. Someone needs to go over the books again to clean it up and update the info.

[robert stevens · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good book, but a bit underwhelming

This book is alright but a few plot holes and an underwhelming look at the dragon rider flights. The problem I️ had was Araxi said “I️ have never been beat by a man,” but Jace had beat her, unless she’s not counting it because he ambushed her, but in the great words of Joseph Joestar “This is a game of life and death, there are no rules!” and it was underwhelming to have Jace’s skills all built up, and the goal of trying to become a dragon rider diminished in about 2 chapters, was kind of disappointing, but it sets the final book and next series up, so that’s a plus, but some pacing issues kind of bring it down, but it’s worth it for the next book and next series.

[Olivia Ganzenmuller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Traitor: YA. Secondary-world fantasy. Animal Companion - Dragons. Adventure. Dragonriders. War. Friendships. Magic. Single POV. Romance. Family. Behind-enemy-lines trope. Creatures. Traitors. Grey Elves. Humans. Near Death Experience/s.

This one is my favourite books so far in this series, because I love the plot line.

How much I liked it: 4.5 Stars
Ideas - World Building: 4 stars
Ideas - Plot: 5 stars
Character Depth: 4.5 stars
Character Interactions: Above Average
Animal Characterisation: Standard (Wyverns and various others)
Warnings: None
Execution: 5 stars
Writing Notes: The emotional ups & downs in terms of the plot improved in this book and made for a fast-paced, entertaining and emotionally engaging read.

[Alysha DeShaé · Rating 5 out of 5]

That ending... O_O Wow... That was incredible.

So this one picks up immediately after the second book left off and, of course, has tons of awesomeness in it. Jae goes to join the battle and hilarity ensues! Okay, not really. But Jae meets some new people, new family members, and learns more about himself than I expected.

See, I was still somewhat convinced that we had discovered that his real father was the king and not Ulric based on how he behaved in regards to his oath to the become a dragonrider. Clearly I was wrong as it's confirmed multiple times that the king is not his father, but the king also isn't the king. *dramatic music*

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Traitor was a vast improvement over the prior two books, which I also liked, but felt more like very slow buildups toward this book, where suddenly everything is exciting and intriguing! The writing seems much more confident and vibrant. The story of the series takes some very interesting turns and we're given several juicy reveals, and the elves! I loved the elves, and I usually dislike elves in any fantasy book except those by Tolkien.

I was pleasantly surprised with this book, and I'm glad I decided to keep reading the series past Avian. I'm very eager to read the rest of the author's books going forward!

[Sandra Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Conway can write.

She is a new author for me, and I’m grateful that I’m finding her now, when most of her books are already available. I’m binging, and don’t intend to stop until I reach the end. Then I’ll author-stalk her until she finishes more!! Yeah. They’re that good. Plenty of romance, no open-door sex. The stories are good enough not to need it. Though, I’m sure, if the time comes that sex will move the story along, she’ll handle it as smoothly and lyrically as she’s dealt with all the other major life issues and obstacles.

[George Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Superb

Maybe this was the right time tho read this. I don't know, but it was 👍. The characters were well defined, the plot almost perfect, only one piece was not abundantly clear. Towards the end it still needs development but otherwise a smashing novel. Now I will purchase the next I'm line

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The cover is 'nice'...and it shouldn't be. She rarely smiled, and unless i am remembering incorrectly, in battle she wore a helmet with horns and did not wear bulky armor like this, but always showed the midriff. But despite this.... i absolutely loving this high speed, yet interwoven tale of adventure, coming of age, and dragons !

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series gets better each book, and has drawn me in. I want to keep reading, and not put the book down until the end, which is what I did with this book! Just like with the first two books in this series there are horrific moments, funny moments, and sad moments. This series in my personal opinion is full of emotion, adventure, and action! Very entertaining!

[cyrene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel a little conflicted.

It seems like Jae was always meant to be a traitor to one side or the other. I feel he did not really deserve that lot in life. The story has no plot gaps, so for that, I am grateful. I guess, depending on how the story ends, will determine my overall feelings.

[Angela Batey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story

Yet another great story keeping the ups and downs of javids life. Nicole's imagination has gone to town on he grey elves side looks like etc. I am
Really looking forward to reading the next book.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible

This book is incredible! If you loved Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, this is definitely along those lines. Good books which display dragons a good light are hard to find which you dragonlovers know, and this book does. It’s well written and has an intriguing, heartbreaking and enthralling story!

[Rayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoying the series

Have enjoyed the series so far but why can't anyone just smile. Why must it be a smirk. I've really got to dislike that word. But all in all a good read. Yes i suppose its for young adults but being 60+ i find it a good adventure

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the story, it finally answered most questions and the plot finally moved forward in a positive way. I'll definitely want to read the next book when I can find it for a reasonable price but for now will take a break from the series.

[Patricia A. Wentworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this storyline.

Magical and fanciful. Love stories and the strength of friendship entwined in war, honor, sacrifice, and kindness towards even those we don't understand and fear.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book! I was hoping for more development in the relationship between the main character and his love interest, though. This series better have a good ending, because it's been so fun to read.

[Charlene Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventure

This series continues to grab me and not let me go until the last word. Just bought book 4 as book 3 ended. Good writing, well developed characters and a great deal of adventure make for a good story.

[Anoop Chandran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This continues the same pattern of fantasy adventure as the other books in the series, with a greater exploration of the Powers of the main character. Also, the understanding of the other side including the way of life and perspective of the grey elves are fun to read.

[Sylina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Hit

I'll never get tired of these books. Its been over a decade since a book could make me emotional and every single volume of this series has done exactly that. Very much looking forward to more!

[Lou Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book!

This is the tale of how Jae got his powers and lived to tell about it. Jae goes down after his friend after Ghost is riddled with arrows. And so begins his introduction to his mother’s family.