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The Draegan Lords #3
Fires Of Ballian
The Draegan Lords, Book 3
A hundred years ago, the high sorcerer of Velensperia launched a swift and deadly attack against the draegans—a race of dragon shapeshifters who’d always lived in harmony with the humans. The draegans were all but destroyed, with the few who remained, scattered and in hiding. But after a century of cruel repression, a group of them have united and begun to fight back. Their leader, Keiran Hareldson, is determined to free his people from the high sorcerer’s tyranny. For years he hid the secret of his heritage, knowing the truth would make him and those around him a target of the sorcerer’s wrath. But the time has come to fight the sorcerer in the open, and once the news spreads that Keiran is the sole surviving draegan lord, draegans and humans alike begin to flock to the draegan camp for protection.
Gaige Rizik used to be the captain of the sorcerer’s High Guard. His last assignment was to infiltrate the draegan rebel’s camp, identify the leader, and eliminate him. No one, least of all him, expected him to fall in love with the very man he’d sworn to kill. Gaige defects to the draegans’ side, and he and Keiran bind themselves to one another not only by love, but by blood when they go through the true mate ritual. With their blood merged, it allows Gaige to inherit the powerful magick of the draegan lords. But inheriting it and using it are two different things. Gaige has trouble tapping into the magick because he feels unworthy of the gift. Only half-draegan, he fears his human side and his past as the high sorcerer’s right hand will forever tarnish his future as Keiran’s mate and second in command.
When Keiran is stolen by an ancient demon from the shadow world, Gaige is left with the fate of the draegan people in his hands. They turn to him as their new lord, and he’s torn between his duty to them, and his desperate need to find his mate. Through shadow and torment, fire and darkness, Gaige and Keiran struggle to hold back the tide of the sorcerer’s ever-expanding war and stop the new and even deadlier evil that threatens their lands. In their darkest hour, only their fierce love for one another, and Gaige’s acceptance of his power, stand between them and the destruction of all they know.
A hundred years ago, the high sorcerer of Velensperia launched a swift and deadly attack against the draegans—a race of dragon shapeshifters who’d always lived in harmony with the humans. The draegans were all but destroyed, with the few who remained, scattered and in hiding. But after a century of cruel repression, a group of them have united and begun to fight back. Their leader, Keiran Hareldson, is determined to free his people from the high sorcerer’s tyranny. For years he hid the secret of his heritage, knowing the truth would make him and those around him a target of the sorcerer’s wrath. But the time has come to fight the sorcerer in the open, and once the news spreads that Keiran is the sole surviving draegan lord, draegans and humans alike begin to flock to the draegan camp for protection.
Gaige Rizik used to be the captain of the sorcerer’s High Guard. His last assignment was to infiltrate the draegan rebel’s camp, identify the leader, and eliminate him. No one, least of all him, expected him to fall in love with the very man he’d sworn to kill. Gaige defects to the draegans’ side, and he and Keiran bind themselves to one another not only by love, but by blood when they go through the true mate ritual. With their blood merged, it allows Gaige to inherit the powerful magick of the draegan lords. But inheriting it and using it are two different things. Gaige has trouble tapping into the magick because he feels unworthy of the gift. Only half-draegan, he fears his human side and his past as the high sorcerer’s right hand will forever tarnish his future as Keiran’s mate and second in command.
When Keiran is stolen by an ancient demon from the shadow world, Gaige is left with the fate of the draegan people in his hands. They turn to him as their new lord, and he’s torn between his duty to them, and his desperate need to find his mate. Through shadow and torment, fire and darkness, Gaige and Keiran struggle to hold back the tide of the sorcerer’s ever-expanding war and stop the new and even deadlier evil that threatens their lands. In their darkest hour, only their fierce love for one another, and Gaige’s acceptance of his power, stand between them and the destruction of all they know.
190 pages, ebook
First published January 26, 2010
18 people are currently reading
465 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Rhodes
42 books570 followersI’m author M.L. Rhodes and I write m/m romance and fantasy. This means my books are about gay or bisexual men meeting, falling in love, and finding happily-ever-afters with other men. Sometimes the settings are contemporary, sometimes the stories take place in worlds filled with dragons, witches, or other fantasy and paranormal creatures. But there’s one thing of which you can be certain…in my books, love always wins!
If you'd like to know more about me and writing, swing by my website when you have a few minutes! http://authormlrhodes.com
If you'd like to know more about me and writing, swing by my website when you have a few minutes! http://authormlrhodes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 19, 2017
Yup, I continued. Damn, I'm weird. Here's the thing, I'm too damn tried to look for other books so I just ended up continuing series I really have no interest in. Keiran Hareldson (108) wasn't really all that much in this book, as I think the focus was to get people to see that Gaige Rizik (32) was equally strong as his mate. It wasn't a bad story, but I still found myself yawning (though that is probably because I've barely slept) and I kinda just want to finish the series so I can put this one (as well) behind me and find something new that, with my luck, I'll probably want to put behind me, too.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Three
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Keiran Hareldson.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Uhhh, I don't know?
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars
“I'd be lost with you. I'll always be here for you, Keiran.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Three
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Keiran Hareldson.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Uhhh, I don't know?
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2 stars
January 20, 2013
Dropping to 3 stars due to the unfinished nature of this series, a lack of closure on the story has impacted my opinion for all 3 books, I will never re-read them since I know they're unfinished. A warning to all who would start this series, we've been waiting for book 4 for 3 years. I'm giving up hope and removing book 4 from my want to read pile. Very, VERY frustrating.
February 15, 2011
Such ssssssaaaaaaaaaddddd start...
to a magnificent book!
Ok, now it the time to see more of Gaige
So, in this third statement the spotlight will be on Gaige. Without spoiling the previous books I can tell only that I loved all the hard and terrible path Gaige start to follow, to discover himself, and to get the power to find his beloved.
I loved also all the secondary characters much more active, helping Gaige. I learn more from the shifter, and unfortunately also more about the great evil, the Moh'dredion.
Humans, Draegans, all creatures in a world where a terrible
In my
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But it's a very personal interpretation of the descriptions, and the fear he can evoke, only by being nominated.
and hummmmmmm... embarrassing but honest moment... I would certainly pee myself seeing something like him too... so well, everyone is right... that guy is scary
Amazing serie up tp now! All 3 books got my 5 stars and I can't wait to the next book!!! The end finally made me smile again!
March 11, 2012
4.5 stars. I'm a sucker for a sweet romance and an action/adventure plot. Love this series. #4 soon please?
December 7, 2013
Book 4 hasn't been released yet....oh trauma!
February 3, 2012
3.5 - I have hesitated for a long time to read Fires of Ballian (book #3) as I knew it would be a long time before we got the actual conclusion. With that said, it fell perfectly in with my Bingo challenge and decided to pick it up. I also missed Gaige and Keiran.
I am not sure how much I want to say for fear of spoiling. The opening pages were so powerful. Gaige was dreaming of a special time with Keiran and really, it was so present that I was actually shocked when it was all a dream. I had forgotten about the moments of the last book when Keiran was taken. I thought, oh good, he is not really gone. Needless to say I was wrong! It was a great opening.
This book was important to the series to force Gaige to believe in himself and to realize he is not the bad guy. We get to see his strength and leadership shine. The secondary characters are all there, yet they took more of a background role as the spotlight was on Gaige. The story line was good, not too deep and detailed, just enough to keep you in the moment and in the world. With that said, sometimes I do feel rushed through scenes where I could use more detail.
Overall I recommend this series for those who enjoy fantasy stories and especially hot dragons!!
I am not sure how much I want to say for fear of spoiling. The opening pages were so powerful. Gaige was dreaming of a special time with Keiran and really, it was so present that I was actually shocked when it was all a dream. I had forgotten about the moments of the last book when Keiran was taken. I thought, oh good, he is not really gone. Needless to say I was wrong! It was a great opening.
This book was important to the series to force Gaige to believe in himself and to realize he is not the bad guy. We get to see his strength and leadership shine. The secondary characters are all there, yet they took more of a background role as the spotlight was on Gaige. The story line was good, not too deep and detailed, just enough to keep you in the moment and in the world. With that said, sometimes I do feel rushed through scenes where I could use more detail.
Overall I recommend this series for those who enjoy fantasy stories and especially hot dragons!!
August 30, 2013
Not nearly the life and death cliffie that book two left us with, but there is definitely more story.
I am so thrilled and relieved that I didn't find these books until now. if I had to wait another year or two to get Circle of Ariend I might go just a bit crazier than I already am. I'm hopeful that Circle (which Ms. Rhoades has said is the last in this series) will com out before the end of the year. Unfortunately, I've not been able to find a corroborating date. So, I wait along with all the other fans to find out how Gaige and Keiran and their friends destroy Byram and his fiends.
GREAT books! I'd recommend them to anyone who wants a well-thought-out world, amazing story, and enthralling characters.
ETA: Almost 2 years later and I'm still waiting. And totally worth it.
I am so thrilled and relieved that I didn't find these books until now. if I had to wait another year or two to get Circle of Ariend I might go just a bit crazier than I already am. I'm hopeful that Circle (which Ms. Rhoades has said is the last in this series) will com out before the end of the year. Unfortunately, I've not been able to find a corroborating date. So, I wait along with all the other fans to find out how Gaige and Keiran and their friends destroy Byram and his fiends.
GREAT books! I'd recommend them to anyone who wants a well-thought-out world, amazing story, and enthralling characters.
ETA: Almost 2 years later and I'm still waiting. And totally worth it.
January 29, 2010
There was almost non-stop action here. This is a wonderful series, the world-building is quite good. I think I liked this less than the first two books, probably because Gaige and Keiran aren't together much. I'm looking forward to book 4.
January 25, 2010
Bring on whenever the hell spring/summer is up there, I say! I can't wait for the final installment in this fantastic m/m fantasy series. *g*
September 19, 2017
good but not as good as the first two. I missed both of the together
September 3, 2017
4 heart review for Love Bytes Reviews.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Please see my reviews of the previous two books in this series for the full details about who these amazing characters are….. book #1 True of Heart, and book #2 Lords of Kellesborne. I’ll just get right to the good stuff with this one!
I try to keep spoilers to a minimum, but something that happened in Lords of Kellesborne has a huge impact on this book. So be warned, if you haven’t read that one, there be spoilers here….
Byram, the nasty sorcerer attempting to take over Valensperia has apparently been feeding souls/energy of draegans to a death demon named Moh’dredion. Moh’dredion has developed a fondness for draegan lords, and Keiran is the last one. So at the end of the last book, Keiran was snatched by Moh’dredion, and has been residing in the shadow world. Gaige is convinced he’s not dead, since they are true mates, and he would know, but he hasn’t been able to figure out how to get to Keiran. He is even more convinced when he “hears” Keiran speak to him, and with the help of a potion, is able to visit Keiran in his dreams. Keiran is happy to see him, and we get a lovely reunion scene, but it is short lived. Gaige then dedicates some thought and energy to solving this issue and getting his lover back to him. But things are never easy, and more bad shit is happening in Valensperia than the draegans knew about initially, and Gaige is drawn in to that battle, as the defacto leader of the draegans now that Keiran is gone. Gaige is torn between his need to defend his new family, and his need to rescue his mate.
We also see the return of a draegan named Jax, who caused much drama earlier in the series. Jax may be having a bit of a redemption, but we’ll have to wait to see how that goes. We also see the blossoming of some love between two dreagans, Wen and Wesley.
After some research and thought, Gaige is eventually able to make some headway on solving his Keiran dilemma. And after some exploration and discussion with his lead draegans, he is able to put plans together in case he doesn’t make it back from his attempt to rescue Keiran…. ominous right? I know! But that’s all I’ll say about that!
This was a very solid addition to the continuing story of Gaige and Keiran, and the only reason I didn’t give it a higher rating is that the two spend most of the book apart. Yes, I understand why, and it is part of the overall plot that works very well, but it’s hard to judge a romantic book when the main characters are apart for 3/4 quarters of the book. There is limited sex between them, and limited time to bond as a couple. What there is, is fan-freaking-tastic. If I think of this book as a continuation of Lords of Kellesborne, and not as a separate book, I’d probably give it more hearts. But it’s not, it’s written as its own book, and I look for certain things in books; Plot, which was great. Writing, which was also great. Characters, which I love. Sex, which was lacking due to their separation. Emotional bond, which was certainly there, but hard since they were apart so much. Ending… I can’t say! It’s always hard for me to rate books smack in the middle of a continuing series, when some things are resolved, but new things are added. So basically I loved it, but I need the story to continue to grow and evolve, and I can’t wait to see what happens when Keiran and Gaige are together for more than a dozen pages!
The next book due out takes a turn to different characters, I remember having some disappointment when that happened the first time I read this series. I liked Wen and Wesley just fine, but I’m really all about Kerian and Gaige. Anything that delays getting more of those two in my hands is going to cause me some stress! I think there may be two books for Wen and Wesley, only one of which was ever published. So maybe we have to wait for one book to be revised and one new book to be finished, before we get the real payoff! A NEW KEIRAN AND GAIGE BOOK!! Yes, I’m a bit excited about that. Ridiculously excited. I’ve been waiting since 2010, and I see a light at the end of the tunnel.
I am a big fan of this series, it’s an excellent example of gay romantic fantasy. You have to read them in order, or you will be lost. This is not a standalone book. Go get the first one and give it a try, these guys are amazing!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Please see my reviews of the previous two books in this series for the full details about who these amazing characters are….. book #1 True of Heart, and book #2 Lords of Kellesborne. I’ll just get right to the good stuff with this one!
I try to keep spoilers to a minimum, but something that happened in Lords of Kellesborne has a huge impact on this book. So be warned, if you haven’t read that one, there be spoilers here….
Byram, the nasty sorcerer attempting to take over Valensperia has apparently been feeding souls/energy of draegans to a death demon named Moh’dredion. Moh’dredion has developed a fondness for draegan lords, and Keiran is the last one. So at the end of the last book, Keiran was snatched by Moh’dredion, and has been residing in the shadow world. Gaige is convinced he’s not dead, since they are true mates, and he would know, but he hasn’t been able to figure out how to get to Keiran. He is even more convinced when he “hears” Keiran speak to him, and with the help of a potion, is able to visit Keiran in his dreams. Keiran is happy to see him, and we get a lovely reunion scene, but it is short lived. Gaige then dedicates some thought and energy to solving this issue and getting his lover back to him. But things are never easy, and more bad shit is happening in Valensperia than the draegans knew about initially, and Gaige is drawn in to that battle, as the defacto leader of the draegans now that Keiran is gone. Gaige is torn between his need to defend his new family, and his need to rescue his mate.
We also see the return of a draegan named Jax, who caused much drama earlier in the series. Jax may be having a bit of a redemption, but we’ll have to wait to see how that goes. We also see the blossoming of some love between two dreagans, Wen and Wesley.
After some research and thought, Gaige is eventually able to make some headway on solving his Keiran dilemma. And after some exploration and discussion with his lead draegans, he is able to put plans together in case he doesn’t make it back from his attempt to rescue Keiran…. ominous right? I know! But that’s all I’ll say about that!
This was a very solid addition to the continuing story of Gaige and Keiran, and the only reason I didn’t give it a higher rating is that the two spend most of the book apart. Yes, I understand why, and it is part of the overall plot that works very well, but it’s hard to judge a romantic book when the main characters are apart for 3/4 quarters of the book. There is limited sex between them, and limited time to bond as a couple. What there is, is fan-freaking-tastic. If I think of this book as a continuation of Lords of Kellesborne, and not as a separate book, I’d probably give it more hearts. But it’s not, it’s written as its own book, and I look for certain things in books; Plot, which was great. Writing, which was also great. Characters, which I love. Sex, which was lacking due to their separation. Emotional bond, which was certainly there, but hard since they were apart so much. Ending… I can’t say! It’s always hard for me to rate books smack in the middle of a continuing series, when some things are resolved, but new things are added. So basically I loved it, but I need the story to continue to grow and evolve, and I can’t wait to see what happens when Keiran and Gaige are together for more than a dozen pages!
The next book due out takes a turn to different characters, I remember having some disappointment when that happened the first time I read this series. I liked Wen and Wesley just fine, but I’m really all about Kerian and Gaige. Anything that delays getting more of those two in my hands is going to cause me some stress! I think there may be two books for Wen and Wesley, only one of which was ever published. So maybe we have to wait for one book to be revised and one new book to be finished, before we get the real payoff! A NEW KEIRAN AND GAIGE BOOK!! Yes, I’m a bit excited about that. Ridiculously excited. I’ve been waiting since 2010, and I see a light at the end of the tunnel.
I am a big fan of this series, it’s an excellent example of gay romantic fantasy. You have to read them in order, or you will be lost. This is not a standalone book. Go get the first one and give it a try, these guys are amazing!
April 9, 2021
After that horrible ending in Lords of Kellesborne, I was hesitant to read this book. What good is an m/m romance if one of the partners is missing? Turns out it's pretty damn good!
The two main things I complained about in the previous book were absent here, and that made for a very entertaining read. Where Lords... was a lot of feelings and sex, Fires of Ballion has loads of action and very little sex. After all, it's hard to have sex when one of the characters is being tortured in help(l).
Obviously, this story is about Gaige. He's always been a leader, but here he grows into his role as a draegon lord, even though he hates being called "lord."
In the previous book, Gaige's magical side manifested in his ability to see the nets designed to trap flying dragons (thus preventing them from flying altogether). It was a major step forward in the draegons' battle against the Evil Sorcerer who seeks to destroy the draegon race. In this book, Gaige finds an even deeper magic (or "magick") with the mystical help of his beloved.
Speaking of the beloved, I was afraid Keiran would be absent from this book. Thankfully, not only is he present, but his POV is explored in some of the chapters. I actually found these chapters to be the most fascinating. The "shadow world" M.L. Rhodes builds is frightening. It's bleak and dire, filled with monsters and fire, and ultimately, madness.
Some readers complain this book's ending is another cliffhanger, but I don't see it that way. Yes, many things are unresolved, , but the ending is uplifting and I'm satisfied.
Now I'm anxious to read on, but I understand the next book occurs prior to this one. And who knows where the follow-on book is.
The two main things I complained about in the previous book were absent here, and that made for a very entertaining read. Where Lords... was a lot of feelings and sex, Fires of Ballion has loads of action and very little sex. After all, it's hard to have sex when one of the characters is being tortured in help(l).
Obviously, this story is about Gaige. He's always been a leader, but here he grows into his role as a draegon lord, even though he hates being called "lord."
She knew he wasn’t fond of his title, and so she used it to tease him, always giving it new variations—Lord Gaige, my lordship, or the one she’d come up with a couple of days ago that still made him cringe to think about…esteemed lordliness.Ha!
In the previous book, Gaige's magical side manifested in his ability to see the nets designed to trap flying dragons (thus preventing them from flying altogether). It was a major step forward in the draegons' battle against the Evil Sorcerer who seeks to destroy the draegon race. In this book, Gaige finds an even deeper magic (or "magick") with the mystical help of his beloved.
Speaking of the beloved, I was afraid Keiran would be absent from this book. Thankfully, not only is he present, but his POV is explored in some of the chapters. I actually found these chapters to be the most fascinating. The "shadow world" M.L. Rhodes builds is frightening. It's bleak and dire, filled with monsters and fire, and ultimately, madness.
Some readers complain this book's ending is another cliffhanger, but I don't see it that way. Yes, many things are unresolved, , but the ending is uplifting and I'm satisfied.
Now I'm anxious to read on, but I understand the next book occurs prior to this one. And who knows where the follow-on book is.
December 3, 2017
Keiran is gone (and believe dead) so as his true mate, the role of leading the draegans falls on Gaige shoulders. The draegan Lord is in fact kept prisoner in an endless nightmare in Ballian. With the help of a strange liquid given by his grandmother, Gaige manage to communicate with his mate through his dream. (Ok they do far more than just communicate….) The man decides to go a on suicidal rescue mission.
Jax is still an ass and do not trust Gaige at all. That guy is seriously annoying.
The evil sorcerer Byram scheme to get rid of the draegans once and for all and is barely present in this book.
Not sure why but I lost interest in this series. I feel like nothing happen in this book and I was quite bored.
Jax is still an ass and do not trust Gaige at all. That guy is seriously annoying.
The evil sorcerer Byram scheme to get rid of the draegans once and for all and is barely present in this book.
Not sure why but I lost interest in this series. I feel like nothing happen in this book and I was quite bored.
March 6, 2013
4.5 stars
Originally reviewed for Joyfully Jay
After Moh’dredion takes his mate Kieran, Gaige vows to find him even when those around him are certain that Kieran is dead. In the meantime, Gaige takes up the position of Draegan Lord – protecting his people and continuing the stand against High Sorcerer Byram. One of his first decisions as leader is to rescue Jax, the one draegan who hates everything about Gaige, from Byram’s dungeons. After weeks of delays, he and his guards are finally able to begin the rescue mission only to have one of Gaige’s visions lead them to a mountain clearing where their worst nightmare is awaiting their arrival. And at the moment he is sure he will die, a vision of Kieran brings Gaige back, gives him hope and strength to believe in the draegan magick hidden within him.
Gaige is determined not to give up the fight to get Kieran back, but that’s easier said than done. Not having Kieran by his side, and not having the mind link that was the comfort and constant reminder of their true-mating are difficult for Gaige to live without. Dreams about Kieran only make Gaige miss him more.
A gift from his grandmother gives Gaige the answers he needs to get Kieran back, but facing possible death and leaving behind his people in the midst of a war is not a decision to be made lightly. Although facing a life without Kieran is something Gaige is sure he wouldn’t survive. With the help of his trusted inner-circle, Gaige sets out to rescue his mate before Death takes everything from them both.
Fires of Ballian is the third book in the Draegan Lords series by M.L. Rhodes. This book is different from the previous two in that it is mostly about Kieran’s rescue and Gaige’s journey to believing in himself and his abilities. They battle their fears, their weaknesses, and most of all themselves in this book. Don’t get me wrong, there is still romance, but there’s a twist to their romance that ends up making their relationship stronger. And as with the first two books, Fires of Ballian is wonderful from beginning to end.
I love this series. Absolutely love it. The story arc is riveting and constantly keeping me on my toes. The characters, main and secondary, are fascinating and continue to grow with each installment. The world building continues to amaze me. And the writing is, as always, captivating. And the way the series progresses, always changing and surprising, impresses me every time.
This story is mostly Gaige’s, although Kieran isn’t absent from this book, nor is his point of view. But for the most part we see Gaige’s progression and growth as a character. He gains confidence, courage, and independence in the draegan world. When he takes over leadership of the draegans and humans that live with them, Gaige was basically flying by the seat of his pants hoping for Kieran’s quick return. He never believed that he was capable of leading or protecting the people without Kieran and then he was thrust into it without warning. His dreams of Kieran telling him to believe in himself and believe in his abilities give Gaige the strength to become not only a strong leader but a powerful Lord of Kellesborne.
As I mentioned earlier, Kieran is in this story, but his is a smaller, supporting role. His journey is one of endurance, survival, and facing his fears. He doesn’t give up. His love for Gaige and his his people are what keeps him going. I love him because no matter what he faces in this world, he doesn’t let it break him. Don’t get me wrong, his is not an easy journey by any means, but it is a satisfying one.
The story arc continues with several twists and turns. I’ve said it before and it remains the truth in this story, every little thing within this story means something. It may not play out the way you were expecting. It may not even play out in the same book, but it all means something. In Fires of Ballian, Jax is rescued and returns to Kellesborne. A shadow of suspicion hovers over him. He is broken and afraid, and that leads to unexpected twists in his story. I’m still not sure whether I trust him or believe his story, but I am dying to find out how his role plays out in all of this.
The world of the Draegan Lords continues to get bigger, growing more intricate and even more alluring. The glimpse into hel, into Ballian, this world beyond the veil, is dark and scary. It’s heart pounding and exciting. Gaige’s expanding abilities are also a wonderful addition to the magical aspect of this world. I look forward to seeing the continued progression of Gaige’s powers and of the world-building in future installments.
My one wish for this book is that we would have been able to see more of Gaige and Kieran together, physically, but I understand that in the overall story what happens is meant to happen. I just love Gaige and Kieran together, together their bond continues to grow stronger. So I look forward to their future journey.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of M.L. Rhodes and this series is a big reason why. Fires of Ballian is filled with ups and downs, hopes and fears, but Rhodes delivers the hope that true love brings with this story. I am waiting on pins and needles for the next book. There will be an interlude for Wen and Wesley’s story, Unexpected Magick, before the next installment of the series. I’m dying to read both. I highly, highly recommend Fires of Ballian by M.L. Rhodes. If you haven’t read the first two books, do not read this one first. This series was meant to be read in order; otherwise you’ll be completely lost.
Originally reviewed for Joyfully Jay
After Moh’dredion takes his mate Kieran, Gaige vows to find him even when those around him are certain that Kieran is dead. In the meantime, Gaige takes up the position of Draegan Lord – protecting his people and continuing the stand against High Sorcerer Byram. One of his first decisions as leader is to rescue Jax, the one draegan who hates everything about Gaige, from Byram’s dungeons. After weeks of delays, he and his guards are finally able to begin the rescue mission only to have one of Gaige’s visions lead them to a mountain clearing where their worst nightmare is awaiting their arrival. And at the moment he is sure he will die, a vision of Kieran brings Gaige back, gives him hope and strength to believe in the draegan magick hidden within him.
Gaige is determined not to give up the fight to get Kieran back, but that’s easier said than done. Not having Kieran by his side, and not having the mind link that was the comfort and constant reminder of their true-mating are difficult for Gaige to live without. Dreams about Kieran only make Gaige miss him more.
A gift from his grandmother gives Gaige the answers he needs to get Kieran back, but facing possible death and leaving behind his people in the midst of a war is not a decision to be made lightly. Although facing a life without Kieran is something Gaige is sure he wouldn’t survive. With the help of his trusted inner-circle, Gaige sets out to rescue his mate before Death takes everything from them both.
Fires of Ballian is the third book in the Draegan Lords series by M.L. Rhodes. This book is different from the previous two in that it is mostly about Kieran’s rescue and Gaige’s journey to believing in himself and his abilities. They battle their fears, their weaknesses, and most of all themselves in this book. Don’t get me wrong, there is still romance, but there’s a twist to their romance that ends up making their relationship stronger. And as with the first two books, Fires of Ballian is wonderful from beginning to end.
I love this series. Absolutely love it. The story arc is riveting and constantly keeping me on my toes. The characters, main and secondary, are fascinating and continue to grow with each installment. The world building continues to amaze me. And the writing is, as always, captivating. And the way the series progresses, always changing and surprising, impresses me every time.
This story is mostly Gaige’s, although Kieran isn’t absent from this book, nor is his point of view. But for the most part we see Gaige’s progression and growth as a character. He gains confidence, courage, and independence in the draegan world. When he takes over leadership of the draegans and humans that live with them, Gaige was basically flying by the seat of his pants hoping for Kieran’s quick return. He never believed that he was capable of leading or protecting the people without Kieran and then he was thrust into it without warning. His dreams of Kieran telling him to believe in himself and believe in his abilities give Gaige the strength to become not only a strong leader but a powerful Lord of Kellesborne.
As I mentioned earlier, Kieran is in this story, but his is a smaller, supporting role. His journey is one of endurance, survival, and facing his fears. He doesn’t give up. His love for Gaige and his his people are what keeps him going. I love him because no matter what he faces in this world, he doesn’t let it break him. Don’t get me wrong, his is not an easy journey by any means, but it is a satisfying one.
The story arc continues with several twists and turns. I’ve said it before and it remains the truth in this story, every little thing within this story means something. It may not play out the way you were expecting. It may not even play out in the same book, but it all means something. In Fires of Ballian, Jax is rescued and returns to Kellesborne. A shadow of suspicion hovers over him. He is broken and afraid, and that leads to unexpected twists in his story. I’m still not sure whether I trust him or believe his story, but I am dying to find out how his role plays out in all of this.
The world of the Draegan Lords continues to get bigger, growing more intricate and even more alluring. The glimpse into hel, into Ballian, this world beyond the veil, is dark and scary. It’s heart pounding and exciting. Gaige’s expanding abilities are also a wonderful addition to the magical aspect of this world. I look forward to seeing the continued progression of Gaige’s powers and of the world-building in future installments.
My one wish for this book is that we would have been able to see more of Gaige and Kieran together, physically, but I understand that in the overall story what happens is meant to happen. I just love Gaige and Kieran together, together their bond continues to grow stronger. So I look forward to their future journey.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of M.L. Rhodes and this series is a big reason why. Fires of Ballian is filled with ups and downs, hopes and fears, but Rhodes delivers the hope that true love brings with this story. I am waiting on pins and needles for the next book. There will be an interlude for Wen and Wesley’s story, Unexpected Magick, before the next installment of the series. I’m dying to read both. I highly, highly recommend Fires of Ballian by M.L. Rhodes. If you haven’t read the first two books, do not read this one first. This series was meant to be read in order; otherwise you’ll be completely lost.
October 31, 2017
★★★☆☆½ ~ 3.5 Stars
Gaige and Keiran learn where Byram's magic power comes from. Unfortunately, the demon who provides escapes his portal and steals Keiran and takes him to a different plane.
While Keiran is away, Gaige learns Byram's evil plans to destroy any who oppose him. Gaige has to figure out if there's any way to get Keiran back, because without Keiran, Byram's pretty unstoppable.
On to Book 3
Gaige and Keiran learn where Byram's magic power comes from. Unfortunately, the demon who provides escapes his portal and steals Keiran and takes him to a different plane.
While Keiran is away, Gaige learns Byram's evil plans to destroy any who oppose him. Gaige has to figure out if there's any way to get Keiran back, because without Keiran, Byram's pretty unstoppable.
On to Book 3
June 4, 2019
Honestly I wish I would have noticed that the last book hadn't been written and probably never will be since nothing gets wrapped up in this book. The MC's spend most the book apart and while I found the world building interesting and liked the characters I'm really frustrated with series that begin and leave you hanging with no ending ever to come.
November 3, 2023
I wish it was longer!
I’m really enjoying this story! It seems like both a lot happened and not very much… the story is progressed; people are rescued. Yet we’re really no closer to defeating the evil. Maybe it’s because I’ve been reading some really long books, but I feel like these could definitely combined into two or three novels I stead of 6.
I’m really enjoying this story! It seems like both a lot happened and not very much… the story is progressed; people are rescued. Yet we’re really no closer to defeating the evil. Maybe it’s because I’ve been reading some really long books, but I feel like these could definitely combined into two or three novels I stead of 6.
June 25, 2025
I loved the series so far, but i'm truly very mad and disapointed with the author , because there should have been a 4th book and we are still waiting for it !!!!!! SERIOUSLY M. L. Rhodes ....... this series was really good, but .....cliffhanger and no 4th book at all ....it's been 15 years since this one came out !!!!
I would never recommend this author to no one !!!!
I would never recommend this author to no one !!!!
November 27, 2023
This book is fairly in line with the others in terms of some good plot points and some nice (while not the best timed) MM scenes. However, I'm really sad that the final installment of series is not out
October 7, 2017
I really love it..
September 13, 2018
I guess I feel like this book was too short because, although I liked it, I don't have much to say about it except that I was glad that it was Gaige's turn to do the saving.
November 1, 2018
** 4.5 stars **
January 24, 2019
3.5/5 Stars
This was good but felt rushed.
This was good but felt rushed.
Read
November 4, 2023Dnf
March 14, 2011
With Keiran being kidnapped by Death - Gaige is left to take care of the draegans and humans under his command. With the escalating threat from Byram, the high sorcerers, Gaige tries to find a way to protect his people as well as saving his mate.
Gosh, this series is just getting better and better. I read this in one sitting, cannot escape from the amazing plot smartly written by Ms. Rhodes. This story is mainly taken from Gaige's point of view, since he is now The Lord for the draegans and humans coalition; although Keiran is not too far away, as he seems to help Gaige from the beyond through his dreams. Gaige also learns more about his magick power and grasping the leadership as the true-mate of a draegan Lord.
I love how Gaige's develop in this book. He does not question himself as much, wondering his worth since he is a son of a murderer. Gaige starts to embrace his draegan heritage and fight for the freedom of his people. It minimizes the "self-pitying" inner dialogue, which I totally appreciate.
The love between Gaige and Keiran stay strong ... and boy, their lovemaking is still as hot as ever.
I adore the little side-scenes from secondary characters, including the cute one when Gaige catches his lieutenant Wen making out with a human boy, Wesley.
Now, bring on the 4th book, please!
Gosh, this series is just getting better and better. I read this in one sitting, cannot escape from the amazing plot smartly written by Ms. Rhodes. This story is mainly taken from Gaige's point of view, since he is now The Lord for the draegans and humans coalition; although Keiran is not too far away, as he seems to help Gaige from the beyond through his dreams. Gaige also learns more about his magick power and grasping the leadership as the true-mate of a draegan Lord.
I love how Gaige's develop in this book. He does not question himself as much, wondering his worth since he is a son of a murderer. Gaige starts to embrace his draegan heritage and fight for the freedom of his people. It minimizes the "self-pitying" inner dialogue, which I totally appreciate.
The love between Gaige and Keiran stay strong ... and boy, their lovemaking is still as hot as ever.
I adore the little side-scenes from secondary characters, including the cute one when Gaige catches his lieutenant Wen making out with a human boy, Wesley.
Now, bring on the 4th book, please!
April 9, 2011
When last we left Gaige, Kieran and the Draegans (Do I sound like one of those hosts of the serial TV shows from the 50's?), Keiran had just been captured by Death and Gaige was freaking and doing his best as the remaining leader to move the Draegans and humans to a safe place while trying to get Keiran back. While rescuing Jax, who tried to kill them a bit ago, from the evil sorcerer, Gaige comes into his own powers and with the help of his Grandmother is able to determine Keiran's location and eventually get him back. There is lots of action and intrigue in this, which is book 3 in the series. I've had it forever but didn't read it, I think in part because I knew it's not the end. There will be another book because they still have to defeat the evil sorcerer and Death isn't dead, just slowed down. While there was romance, it's a bit different since much of the book they are apart or only together in a dream world (which doesn't preclude sex lucky for them). For fans of the series a must read and if you like dragons and fantasy and intrigue and romance, it's an excellent series to pick up. You really need to start at book 1 though to fully enjoy this. I'm looking forward to the big show-down with Gaige's ex-boss, the evil sorcerer.
January 29, 2015
This chapter in the series was frustratingly short. The fantasy aspects were interesting, and I would have liked to see them play out with a bit more development, but the fact that the lovers were separated actually shifted the focus more to the fantasy and a bit less to the romance, which I appreciated. The book had better closure than the last, with its own climax, but it's dismaying to see that it's been four years since this came out, and the next one in the series has been put off by two side stories, and doesn't sound like it's close to being done.
I haven't read the one side story, but I have a feeling this could have been a really strong trilogy, or at most, four book series, if the author had planned out the story arc a bit more back when it was started. I guess JK Rowling has forever raised my expectations as far as that kind of approach to a fantasy series goes. This author's not alone in that GRR Martin and Robert Jordan(when he was alive) got buried under the weight of the worlds they created, and couldn't/can't seem to move them forward either. Both of theirs were quite a bit more extensive than this story is, though, so I'm hoping for movement and final closure on this one.
I haven't read the one side story, but I have a feeling this could have been a really strong trilogy, or at most, four book series, if the author had planned out the story arc a bit more back when it was started. I guess JK Rowling has forever raised my expectations as far as that kind of approach to a fantasy series goes. This author's not alone in that GRR Martin and Robert Jordan(when he was alive) got buried under the weight of the worlds they created, and couldn't/can't seem to move them forward either. Both of theirs were quite a bit more extensive than this story is, though, so I'm hoping for movement and final closure on this one.
April 1, 2017
The third book in the series and it was good but really short (which is why I'm only giving it 4 stars. The author could have put more into the book and built out the secondary characters a little more, if we're going to follow all of these individuals then invest a little more time in developing them). It left me wanting more, maybe it was so short because there wasn't all the sex in it (don't get me wrong there was still sex, just not as much). It was a good follow-up to the Lords of Kellesborne and I enjoyed it. As I was hopping there was a good conclusion for the end of the last book and you weren't left out in the cold and it wasn't fluffed over. Thank you.
I loved how the author showed the characters grow (I don't want to give anything away so I'm being vague on that). That growth and acceptance is what made this book for me, I'm sure it will play out at some point and maybe not in the way you hope. There are still a lot of questions out there, but not annoyingly so. The author makes you want more while teasing you a little a long the way. Not all the questions get answered here by any means but enough of them do to not put you off. The only problem now is having to wait for book four to come out.
I loved how the author showed the characters grow (I don't want to give anything away so I'm being vague on that). That growth and acceptance is what made this book for me, I'm sure it will play out at some point and maybe not in the way you hope. There are still a lot of questions out there, but not annoyingly so. The author makes you want more while teasing you a little a long the way. Not all the questions get answered here by any means but enough of them do to not put you off. The only problem now is having to wait for book four to come out.
April 19, 2010
3.5 out of 5
Book three in the fantasy series Draegan Lords is intense and action packed from beginning to end. In this story Keiran, the draegan leader, has been taken by a demon and Gaige, Keiran's mate, is left to lead and protect their people while at the same time trying desperately to find and rescue Keiran.
Just like the previous two books this story is well written, the world building is good and the characters, from the main protagonists on down, are interesting and well developed. There is a marked difference in this book from the other two however and that is the fact that this book is less about the relationship between Keiran and Gaige and more about the events in the story. So for me this was a mixed read. I liked the story, the action is great and seeing Gaige fully come into his own was wonderful. At the same time while I did enjoy the book overall I was a bit disappointed because Gaige and Keiran aren't together through a large portion of the story.
Even so this is a great series and I'm looking forward to the release of the fourth book in the series. Circle of Ariend should hopefully be out this summer.
Book three in the fantasy series Draegan Lords is intense and action packed from beginning to end. In this story Keiran, the draegan leader, has been taken by a demon and Gaige, Keiran's mate, is left to lead and protect their people while at the same time trying desperately to find and rescue Keiran.
Just like the previous two books this story is well written, the world building is good and the characters, from the main protagonists on down, are interesting and well developed. There is a marked difference in this book from the other two however and that is the fact that this book is less about the relationship between Keiran and Gaige and more about the events in the story. So for me this was a mixed read. I liked the story, the action is great and seeing Gaige fully come into his own was wonderful. At the same time while I did enjoy the book overall I was a bit disappointed because Gaige and Keiran aren't together through a large portion of the story.
Even so this is a great series and I'm looking forward to the release of the fourth book in the series. Circle of Ariend should hopefully be out this summer.
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