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Goblin Star #1
Nova Dragon
In a galaxy of elves, goblins, and humans…
…Two boys must work together to uncover an ancient magic and find the legendary Nova Dragon.
As the only human child on an elven space station, Radek is an outcast in his own home. Befriended by the elven boy Ovian, they join together when a mysterious murder threatens their station's tense peace.
When the two go on a hunt for answers, they find themselves stuck at the heart of a goblin plot. Now, stranded in space, they have to rely on their courage, their magic, and each other.
The legendary Nova Dragon offers a chance to save them, but only if they can find it before the goblins.
Join Radek and Ovian for an adventure through space as they discover strength they never knew, and secrets that weren't meant to be uncovered.
“… a wonderful mix of fantasy and sci-fi, a sort of Lord of the Rings and Star Wars crossover that is sure to entertain both kids and adults." –Amazon Reviewer
…Two boys must work together to uncover an ancient magic and find the legendary Nova Dragon.
As the only human child on an elven space station, Radek is an outcast in his own home. Befriended by the elven boy Ovian, they join together when a mysterious murder threatens their station's tense peace.
When the two go on a hunt for answers, they find themselves stuck at the heart of a goblin plot. Now, stranded in space, they have to rely on their courage, their magic, and each other.
The legendary Nova Dragon offers a chance to save them, but only if they can find it before the goblins.
Join Radek and Ovian for an adventure through space as they discover strength they never knew, and secrets that weren't meant to be uncovered.
“… a wonderful mix of fantasy and sci-fi, a sort of Lord of the Rings and Star Wars crossover that is sure to entertain both kids and adults." –Amazon Reviewer
- GenresScience FictionFantasy
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2017
53 people are currently reading
488 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 11, 2020
Gama Ray Martinez’s ‘Nova Dragon,’ the action-packed debut to his ‘Goblin Star’ trilogy, mixes a futuristic space adventure with dragons, providing middle-school readers with a perfect entry-point to the sci-fi genre.
‘Nova Dragon’ introduces readers to Radek and Ovian (a human and elf respectively), unlikely friends who, armed with the knowledge of a mysterious plot that threatens the entire galaxy, embark on the adventure of a lifetime in search of help by way of ancient magic. Along the way, they learn the value of courage, trust and tolerance as they grapple with a series of threats.
Perhaps best described as a genre ‘mash-up,’ ‘Nova Dragon’ mixes middle-Earth-esque elements (like magic, elves, and goblins) and futuristic tech (intergalactic travel, etc.) with a classic ‘Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew’ feel. Martinez’s writing is a perfect balance of efficiency and descriptiveness, which, when combined with the book’s pacing and judicious action, makes for an incredibly engaging read from beginning to end.
While ‘Nova Dragon’ was clearly written for a YA audience, with a pitch-perfect plot, generous world-building and a pair of easy-to-root-for protagonists, sci-fi fans of all ages are sure to find something to love with Martinez’s new series—highly recommended.
‘Nova Dragon’ introduces readers to Radek and Ovian (a human and elf respectively), unlikely friends who, armed with the knowledge of a mysterious plot that threatens the entire galaxy, embark on the adventure of a lifetime in search of help by way of ancient magic. Along the way, they learn the value of courage, trust and tolerance as they grapple with a series of threats.
Perhaps best described as a genre ‘mash-up,’ ‘Nova Dragon’ mixes middle-Earth-esque elements (like magic, elves, and goblins) and futuristic tech (intergalactic travel, etc.) with a classic ‘Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew’ feel. Martinez’s writing is a perfect balance of efficiency and descriptiveness, which, when combined with the book’s pacing and judicious action, makes for an incredibly engaging read from beginning to end.
While ‘Nova Dragon’ was clearly written for a YA audience, with a pitch-perfect plot, generous world-building and a pair of easy-to-root-for protagonists, sci-fi fans of all ages are sure to find something to love with Martinez’s new series—highly recommended.
March 20, 2021
I really enjoyed this.
Lord of the Rings meets Star Wars! What a great concept. I loved this book from beginning to end. Great for all ages.
Lord of the Rings meets Star Wars! What a great concept. I loved this book from beginning to end. Great for all ages.
November 15, 2020
Spoilers Ahead!
Nova Dragon tells the story of a human boy living in an elven world – or more accurately, an elven-created space station. Radek, the boy, is struggling to fit in among his elven peers, when a young elf named Ovian befriends him. And by befriends, I mean leads Radek into mischief that nearly causes an interstellar incident with a race of goblins. This is a case of children will be children until Radek’s father is brutally murdered. Radek and Ovian, in search of answers, stumble upon a plot much larger than the murder, and soon find themselves at the middle of it.
This is a fun and adventurous middle-grade book, appropriate for readers 10 and up. It’s challenging and engaging enough for young readers who are reading a little advanced for their age, but still accessible for readers who are still discovering their love for reading. Radek is relatable as a vulnerable human boy who feels out of place and suddenly finds himself very alone. Ovian is a nice complement to Radek, as he helps bring Radek out of his shell, despite the trouble he constantly drags Radek into. Together, they have an interesting and fun adventure.
The book is a strong mixture of science fiction and high fantasy, combining elves, goblins, humans, dwarves and of course, dragons, with the more scientific aspects of space station living, non-Earth planets, and space travel. It’s a fantastic story for children who are interested in exploring these genres, but for whom books like the Lord of the Rings trilogy or hard science fiction may be too advanced.
Children who enjoyed the early Harry Potter books (before they got really dark) or the Percy Jackson series will find this entertaining. This is also an appropriate book for readers interested in crime solving stories. The author has created a well-written, well-edited story that is age appropriate without pandering, and is captivating enough that even some adult readers may find it entertaining (I did!).
Nova Dragon tells the story of a human boy living in an elven world – or more accurately, an elven-created space station. Radek, the boy, is struggling to fit in among his elven peers, when a young elf named Ovian befriends him. And by befriends, I mean leads Radek into mischief that nearly causes an interstellar incident with a race of goblins. This is a case of children will be children until Radek’s father is brutally murdered. Radek and Ovian, in search of answers, stumble upon a plot much larger than the murder, and soon find themselves at the middle of it.
This is a fun and adventurous middle-grade book, appropriate for readers 10 and up. It’s challenging and engaging enough for young readers who are reading a little advanced for their age, but still accessible for readers who are still discovering their love for reading. Radek is relatable as a vulnerable human boy who feels out of place and suddenly finds himself very alone. Ovian is a nice complement to Radek, as he helps bring Radek out of his shell, despite the trouble he constantly drags Radek into. Together, they have an interesting and fun adventure.
The book is a strong mixture of science fiction and high fantasy, combining elves, goblins, humans, dwarves and of course, dragons, with the more scientific aspects of space station living, non-Earth planets, and space travel. It’s a fantastic story for children who are interested in exploring these genres, but for whom books like the Lord of the Rings trilogy or hard science fiction may be too advanced.
Children who enjoyed the early Harry Potter books (before they got really dark) or the Percy Jackson series will find this entertaining. This is also an appropriate book for readers interested in crime solving stories. The author has created a well-written, well-edited story that is age appropriate without pandering, and is captivating enough that even some adult readers may find it entertaining (I did!).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2021
I never wrote a review for this 😳😅
I won this ebook in a goodreads giveaway, but as of a few days ago was free for kindle and books 2 and 3 were .99!! (Which I did indeed purchase = ) I'm not sure if it's the last in the series, but book 4 comes out soon, so it seems like a good time to catch up/binge this series!!
So this is middle grade, scifi, space opera...and just a good time! The books all seem pretty short, and this one was definitely a fast read. I think a lot of middle grade books in general have that feeling of anything could happen, so you're furiously turning pages (or tapping the screen? Lol) to see what's next. It's why I love middle grade. That feeling of just going into a book with a vague idea and being along for the ride.
Radek and Ovian are such an interesting pair. They work well together in a crisis bc they each have pieces to the puzzle, if you will, due to their different backgrounds, experiences, education, etc. Sometimes it feels like they're both really smart and would a kid really know all this?! but it's futuristic and what do I know about the elven education system?! Haha. This starts on a space station (yes please) and really goes from there. I know people use that phrase a lot, but it really GOES from there haha where we start is truly just a starting point. There are planets and ships, space battles, ancient/forgotten tech, creatures and different races...there's so much here. SO much.
The parts that bothered me felt very UGH at the beginning, but I just kind of accepted them by the end. Our heroes keep getting caught and reprimanded and yet they keep doing dangerous stuff. The adults seem competent, and yet are unable to keep the kids from causing this world's version of an international incident. The justification for a lot of their decisions is "do you have a better idea?" which was faulty logic that annoyed me at first, but was kind of like "lol why not, let's see what these kids will ruin next" by the end. I like how they have that sort of friendship that's like meh, nothing to do today OH HEY another person, want to come eavesdrop on a super secret meeting with me? Sure let's go. And just like that, they're friends. It's sweet, really haha
The only thing that legit bothered me throughout is something I'm willing to excuse for this book. At the beginning, radek loses someone close to him and yet is largely immune to grief or even thoughts of that person. He's on a really intense adventure that's very go go go, so I'll give him a pass this book. He hasn't processed his grief yet. There's a moment at the end where he's forced to confront it, so I think that's a good sign for subsequent books. And it happens at a moment where there's time to take a breath and reflect upon everything that's happened. I mean, he's dealing with things like the possibility of giant space faring dragons that were thought to be extinct (or at least in hiding) and goblin armies, so yeah, he gets a pass for this book. But I'd def like to see more depth from his character.
I think this book is one of those hidden gems, which is crazy bc middle grade space opera is kind of hard to find. HERE IT IS. Also look at those covers!! You just KNOW there's going to be a ton of adventure.
Ps I love when elves have nature magic and sing to trees to form things. Is this another new weirdly specific thing I love?! (Like kids being sent to live with estranged relatives near a creepy wood) I think so. I'm noticing patterns. Haha.
Pps since this book doesn't have a ton of reviews and you're new here and are like meh middle grade, meh kids books. Don't dismiss them. I'm 36 and I love middle grade. Who doesn't want to go on an adventure in space?! I def do. Sign me up.
I won this ebook in a goodreads giveaway, but as of a few days ago was free for kindle and books 2 and 3 were .99!! (Which I did indeed purchase = ) I'm not sure if it's the last in the series, but book 4 comes out soon, so it seems like a good time to catch up/binge this series!!
So this is middle grade, scifi, space opera...and just a good time! The books all seem pretty short, and this one was definitely a fast read. I think a lot of middle grade books in general have that feeling of anything could happen, so you're furiously turning pages (or tapping the screen? Lol) to see what's next. It's why I love middle grade. That feeling of just going into a book with a vague idea and being along for the ride.
Radek and Ovian are such an interesting pair. They work well together in a crisis bc they each have pieces to the puzzle, if you will, due to their different backgrounds, experiences, education, etc. Sometimes it feels like they're both really smart and would a kid really know all this?! but it's futuristic and what do I know about the elven education system?! Haha. This starts on a space station (yes please) and really goes from there. I know people use that phrase a lot, but it really GOES from there haha where we start is truly just a starting point. There are planets and ships, space battles, ancient/forgotten tech, creatures and different races...there's so much here. SO much.
The parts that bothered me felt very UGH at the beginning, but I just kind of accepted them by the end. Our heroes keep getting caught and reprimanded and yet they keep doing dangerous stuff. The adults seem competent, and yet are unable to keep the kids from causing this world's version of an international incident. The justification for a lot of their decisions is "do you have a better idea?" which was faulty logic that annoyed me at first, but was kind of like "lol why not, let's see what these kids will ruin next" by the end. I like how they have that sort of friendship that's like meh, nothing to do today OH HEY another person, want to come eavesdrop on a super secret meeting with me? Sure let's go. And just like that, they're friends. It's sweet, really haha
The only thing that legit bothered me throughout is something I'm willing to excuse for this book. At the beginning, radek loses someone close to him and yet is largely immune to grief or even thoughts of that person. He's on a really intense adventure that's very go go go, so I'll give him a pass this book. He hasn't processed his grief yet. There's a moment at the end where he's forced to confront it, so I think that's a good sign for subsequent books. And it happens at a moment where there's time to take a breath and reflect upon everything that's happened. I mean, he's dealing with things like the possibility of giant space faring dragons that were thought to be extinct (or at least in hiding) and goblin armies, so yeah, he gets a pass for this book. But I'd def like to see more depth from his character.
I think this book is one of those hidden gems, which is crazy bc middle grade space opera is kind of hard to find. HERE IT IS. Also look at those covers!! You just KNOW there's going to be a ton of adventure.
Ps I love when elves have nature magic and sing to trees to form things. Is this another new weirdly specific thing I love?! (Like kids being sent to live with estranged relatives near a creepy wood) I think so. I'm noticing patterns. Haha.
Pps since this book doesn't have a ton of reviews and you're new here and are like meh middle grade, meh kids books. Don't dismiss them. I'm 36 and I love middle grade. Who doesn't want to go on an adventure in space?! I def do. Sign me up.
March 10, 2020
Nova Dragon is a middle grade book written by Gama Ray Martinez. It is about two boys, an elf and a human, that find themselves embroiled in interspecies conflict. This delightful book leads the reader on an exciting adventure through space, into trees and stars to find a way to stop the goblin invasion.
The relationship between the two boys, Radek and Ovian, is one of the best parts of the book. In the beginning they are strangers and quickly grow to become friends through the challenges they face. They push each other deeper into the conflict by making impulsive decisions that appear to make sense only to land themselves in more trouble. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as they learned to trust each other.
Nova Dragon is a fast paced book with short chapters making it easily accessible for a young reader. Martinez is able to transition quickly from one exciting event to the next holding onto a reader that may have a shorter attention span making it an excellent middle grade book. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fun adventure stories.
The relationship between the two boys, Radek and Ovian, is one of the best parts of the book. In the beginning they are strangers and quickly grow to become friends through the challenges they face. They push each other deeper into the conflict by making impulsive decisions that appear to make sense only to land themselves in more trouble. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as they learned to trust each other.
Nova Dragon is a fast paced book with short chapters making it easily accessible for a young reader. Martinez is able to transition quickly from one exciting event to the next holding onto a reader that may have a shorter attention span making it an excellent middle grade book. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fun adventure stories.
April 30, 2021
This week I ready the Goblin Star series by Gama Ray Martinez. This is a fantasy set in space, and I loved every second of it.
The Series Includes:
Nova Dragon (Goblin Star Book 1)
Runestone Fleet (Goblin Star Book 2)
Twinsun Sea (Goblin Star Book 3)
Starbound Soul (Goblin Star Book 4)
There were multiple times during this series that I burst out laughing, then had to apologize to the people around me. I especially loved the character development, and how much the friendship between the main characters grew and changed as they became more mature.
The entire premise of the series (dragons and other mythical races in space!!!) was an absolute delight. And I loved how the magic system was set up for this universe. I would really like to write in this universe, in fact.
These were written for children (middle school or so), but I loved them very much as an adult. I had zero issues adding them to my kids’ kindle library, and I would highly recommend you get them for your kids!
The Series Includes:
Nova Dragon (Goblin Star Book 1)
Runestone Fleet (Goblin Star Book 2)
Twinsun Sea (Goblin Star Book 3)
Starbound Soul (Goblin Star Book 4)
There were multiple times during this series that I burst out laughing, then had to apologize to the people around me. I especially loved the character development, and how much the friendship between the main characters grew and changed as they became more mature.
The entire premise of the series (dragons and other mythical races in space!!!) was an absolute delight. And I loved how the magic system was set up for this universe. I would really like to write in this universe, in fact.
These were written for children (middle school or so), but I loved them very much as an adult. I had zero issues adding them to my kids’ kindle library, and I would highly recommend you get them for your kids!
March 4, 2020
Dragons, elves, goblins, and humans... .in space. What can be better than that? Nova Dragon is a middle-grade novel by Gama Ray Martinez. And if anyone could mix science fiction and fantasy, it is Gama.
Using science combined with magic, creatures of epic fantasy left earth long ago to explore space. Even humans have developed magical abilities to help with intergalactic travel. Radek, the son of the human ambassador to an Elven space station, feels totally out of his element, and Ovian is the mischievous son of an Elven noble. Together they must stop a war between the races and not get grounded in the process.
Nova Dragon is a remarkable combination of worldbuilding, storytelling, and insane creativity. Gama Ray Martinez is the literary equivalent of a mad scientist. Nova Dragon was the first time in a long time that a middle-grade novel made me cry. Better yet, I enjoyed every minute of this epic ride.
Using science combined with magic, creatures of epic fantasy left earth long ago to explore space. Even humans have developed magical abilities to help with intergalactic travel. Radek, the son of the human ambassador to an Elven space station, feels totally out of his element, and Ovian is the mischievous son of an Elven noble. Together they must stop a war between the races and not get grounded in the process.
Nova Dragon is a remarkable combination of worldbuilding, storytelling, and insane creativity. Gama Ray Martinez is the literary equivalent of a mad scientist. Nova Dragon was the first time in a long time that a middle-grade novel made me cry. Better yet, I enjoyed every minute of this epic ride.
November 8, 2020
Star Wars meets Lord of the Rings in a gripping tale of heroics in space. I really enjoyed this book as it tells the story of Radek and Ovian and a human and elven friendship. If you had told me that dragons, elves and goblins would work in science fiction set amid interplanetary warfare I would not have thought it possible but the brilliance of the author that it works so well.
As the goblins and elves fragile peace accord breaks down amidst a brutal murder it looks as if the universe could be about to be devastated by the discovery of an all powerful weapon that was believed to only exist in stories and myths. The level of tension and excitement hold the perfect balance for introducing younger readers to the genre.
I am excited to see that this book is only the first in a series. As a teacher, to be able to point students in the direction of a collection of books that will get them hooked into reading, is great. I will definitely be recommending these!
As the goblins and elves fragile peace accord breaks down amidst a brutal murder it looks as if the universe could be about to be devastated by the discovery of an all powerful weapon that was believed to only exist in stories and myths. The level of tension and excitement hold the perfect balance for introducing younger readers to the genre.
I am excited to see that this book is only the first in a series. As a teacher, to be able to point students in the direction of a collection of books that will get them hooked into reading, is great. I will definitely be recommending these!
October 22, 2020
Nova Dragon is a riveting fantasy novel that provides a perfectly captivating blend of elves, dragons, goblins, magic, and humans, all in a deep-space setting.
Though it is intended for young adults it’s truly a great read for fantasy and/or sci-fi fans of all ages. It’s an absolute page-turner that flows beautifully, thanks to a mesmerizing plot and detailed imagery. The author, Gama Ray Martinez, successfully paints a very clear picture of the world that his imagination and creativity has brought to life for his readers.
This is the first installation in a trilogy and, from what I’ve heard, it only gets better from here. I chose to read this book because it came so highly recommended. Now that I’ve experienced it for myself I will definitely be encouraging others to grab a copy of their own.
Though it is intended for young adults it’s truly a great read for fantasy and/or sci-fi fans of all ages. It’s an absolute page-turner that flows beautifully, thanks to a mesmerizing plot and detailed imagery. The author, Gama Ray Martinez, successfully paints a very clear picture of the world that his imagination and creativity has brought to life for his readers.
This is the first installation in a trilogy and, from what I’ve heard, it only gets better from here. I chose to read this book because it came so highly recommended. Now that I’ve experienced it for myself I will definitely be encouraging others to grab a copy of their own.
November 13, 2020
Nova Dragon is the action-packed first installment to Gama Ray Martinez's Goblin Star trilogy. Rodek is the son of the human ambassador to an Elven space ship who struggles to fit in with his peers and Ovian is the sly son of an Elven noble. These two form an unlikely friendship after discovering a goblin plot that threatens their entire galaxy. They set off on a galactic adventure to find the Nova Dragon, an ancient powerful weapon that only existed in myths, and stop the goblins from starting a war between the races. This Middle Grade read is a wonderful mix of fantasy and sci-fi, a sort of Lord of the Rings and Star Wars crossover that is sure to entertain both kids and adults. Martinez's descriptive world building and engaging plot makes for a page turning debut that is sure to leave young readers on the edge of their seats.
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March 9, 2020Nova Dragon is a fast-paced and fun sci-fi fantasy adventure. Gama has a talent for crafting a story which draws upon the familiar, and then successfully combines those elements into something new, such as which race uses what specific materials for their magic to work. As someone who does not naturally gravitate towards this genre, I was pleasantly surprised that the story did not go in the direction I anticipated it would. I was also actively engaged with the characters, caring about them through their entire journey. My favorite character is Ovian, with his staring-at-the-ceiling signature move, and penchant for getting into trouble due to his curiosity. I am positive if I had read this book at a much younger age, it would have fast become one of my favorites.
March 15, 2020
Loved "Nova Dragon" by Gama Ray Martinez. If you want something to read with your kids that they will like--this is it. Friends, elves, dragons, space fights, spaceships, spells...this book has it all. What I liked about this book for my kids was it was easy to read, exciting from the beginning (we didn't have to wait "for it to get good"), and relatable to kids. Readers even learn about loyalty, family, trust, and good friendships. Get to know Radek and Ovian as you cheer for them to succeed and feel bad when things don't go their way. Highly recommend to those with kids--especially now if you are stuck in your house with nothing to do--this will keep your kids entertained better than the TV!
October 14, 2020
This was an exceptionally fun, fast-paced, fully accessible read. With a fluid mix of sci-fi and fantasy (with some magic thrown in for good measure) any kid would find themselves wholly invested in this story and the relationship between Radek and Ovian. Nice short chapters, grounding language use, and colorful descriptions that are sure to keep kids engaged. An easy read, but not a plot without substance--a dynamic story grounded in genuine characters, this book will teach lessons and leave you wanting more.
Gamma Ray Martinez has a successful story on his hand and I am ooking forward to more from the Goblin Star series!
Gamma Ray Martinez has a successful story on his hand and I am ooking forward to more from the Goblin Star series!
October 20, 2020
Nova Dragon by Gama Ray Martinez is a fantasy novel full of adventure from the very first page to the last. The plot is incredibly fast-paced, but balanced with a focus on just two main characters (Orion and Radek), the reader is able to keep up to speed and remains hooked to the plot page after page. I definitely think this book is perfect for younger readers who enjoy the escape from mundane reality into an exciting fantasy/sci-fi world constructed full of mystical creatures and out of this world technology. In fact, despite the book being written for middle-grade aged children, I would say it's enjoyable to all those who enjoy a fast-paced fantasy adventure through space!
October 28, 2018
Usually "reminiscent of Star Trek" is a bad thing, but this gave me nostalgia for DS9 in a good way -- if you think about Jake Sisco and Nog as middle-school age kids accidentally stumbling into the middle of intergalactic politics and trying to crash, pilot, and fight their way through to save the day, well, that's just about right. But this isn't just Star Trek with the serial numbers filed off -- Martinez created his own interesting world where faster-than-light travel is possible through mixing technology and magic. This is a straight-up adventure book, and I had fun reading it.
October 26, 2020
Witty, full of action...
It's a shame this story wasn't around when I was a teenager. Honestly, it's one of the best books I've read in a while in its genre, and even though I'm an adult now, it still managed to pull me in.
The readers get to learn about magic and the world through the experiences of the main characters, but they don't have much time to ponder, as the story is packed with action and twists that will keep you going.
All in all, lovely story to read at any age. Can only recommend.
It's a shame this story wasn't around when I was a teenager. Honestly, it's one of the best books I've read in a while in its genre, and even though I'm an adult now, it still managed to pull me in.
The readers get to learn about magic and the world through the experiences of the main characters, but they don't have much time to ponder, as the story is packed with action and twists that will keep you going.
All in all, lovely story to read at any age. Can only recommend.
October 30, 2020
Nova Dragon follows two unlikely friends, Radek and Ovian, an elf and human respectively. They end up on a wild journey filled with sci-fi adventures and magic.
Everything about this novel was fun and action-packed. The world itself was well-done. I especially loved how they were in school learning about the various races from humans to elves to goblins.
There's a lot packed into this short read but younger kids will enjoy it and adults will appreciate it. The characters were fun to follow and the overall adventure was a thrill and unique from other sci-fi and fantasy stories.
Everything about this novel was fun and action-packed. The world itself was well-done. I especially loved how they were in school learning about the various races from humans to elves to goblins.
There's a lot packed into this short read but younger kids will enjoy it and adults will appreciate it. The characters were fun to follow and the overall adventure was a thrill and unique from other sci-fi and fantasy stories.
November 2, 2021
Society has finally reached the stars, but when Radek, a human, befriends Ovian, the son of an Elven dignitary, his life is thrown into chaos, from a shocking murder to the plans of invasion led by the Goblin empire, who are seeking out an ancient weapon capable of toppling entire planets! Martinez offers a mildly interesting sci-fi realm, though its repetitive nature is in need of further editing, and will quickly lose more experienced readers. Can Radek and Ovian stand a chance against the power of the Goblins on their own?
March 12, 2020
Nova Dragon by Gama Ray Martinez is a fantasy must read for elementary age and up. An unlikely human and elf duo show great courage and ingenuity in their quest to save a galaxy! With humans, elves, goblins, dragons, and space battles, what more could a reader want? As an educator, I see value in both the excitement this book will bring to young readers and in the character trait discussions that can follow. I cannot wait to have a read aloud with my 6-year-old son!
October 15, 2020
I read this with my 11-year-old and we both really enjoyed it! The author found really clever ways to make a fantasy world relatable for a generation of kids that live in a technology-fueled world. The story went fast, which is sometimes hard to do when you're doing fantasy world-building, but Martinez definitely pulled it off. This is a really quick, fun read that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Can't wait to continue the series!
October 26, 2020
Rarely does one come across a novel that combines science fiction and fantasy with such flair. Gama Ray Martinez proves they are the master when it comes to the unexpected. The first installment in Martinez’s Goblin Star series promises to be a hit with young adult readers as well as more mature audiences. Readers who long for space adventures mixed with dragons and other fantastical beasts will be delighted with Nova Dragon.
October 14, 2020
I loved Nova Dragon! Martinez did a great job drawing is into the story from the beginning. This is s as crossover story of scI-fi and fantasy because it takes place in the future in space with advanced technology, but fantasy because there is magic, elves, and more. I recommend this book to anyone that likes a crossover between Star Wars and Lord if the Rings.
October 14, 2020
This book turned out to be different than I thought it would be, it turned out better! I highly recommend Nova Dragon by Gama Ray Martinez for sci-fi lovers. The main characters are 12, but I’m an adult and I enjoyed it. In the beginning of the book I didn’t really like the elves, but by the middle I was rooting for them and Ovian became my favorite character.
August 13, 2021
When stars collide, the universe is changed. Nova Dragon is a fun mash-up of both epic fantasy and space action sci-fi. Mix in a sub story of friendship despite differences and doing the best you can with what you got, and the fantasy mixes well with real life. Add a couple dragons and you're guaranteed a good time. It's age appropriate for 8-13.
August 1, 2020
tale of dragons, elves, goblins and humans
All the races are aware of each other and all of them get along but the goblins. The goblins are trying to control the universe. One human and one elf are the only ones who can stop them.
All the races are aware of each other and all of them get along but the goblins. The goblins are trying to control the universe. One human and one elf are the only ones who can stop them.
May 26, 2020
Excellent book!!!
May 4, 2020
Fantasy Meets Sci-fi in a Fun, Fast-paced Adventure
I’m a big fan of fantasy and science fiction, and Nova Dragon was such a fun genre crossover! The book itself is geared toward middle-grade kids, but I found it to be quite enjoyable as well (and I’m in my 30s!). The pacing was fast enough to keep me interested from chapter to chapter, and the two main characters grew on me throughout the story. Everything seemed well thought out and was wonderfully executed.
I enjoyed seeing the fantasy tropes mingling with those of the science fiction genre. Warring goblins, prim and proper elves, and other fantasy races were portrayed wonderfully. I appreciated that big problems weren’t solved by the proverbial space-cavalry charging in, and that the two kids in the story were the captains of their own fates. There were multiple times when bad things would happen to our heroes and I couldn’t begin to fathom how they would get out of it. In each case, I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
If you or your child likes classic fantasy and/or science fiction, Nova Dragon is a good, fun read. It’s written for middle grade, but the story is such that all can enjoy it.
I’m a big fan of fantasy and science fiction, and Nova Dragon was such a fun genre crossover! The book itself is geared toward middle-grade kids, but I found it to be quite enjoyable as well (and I’m in my 30s!). The pacing was fast enough to keep me interested from chapter to chapter, and the two main characters grew on me throughout the story. Everything seemed well thought out and was wonderfully executed.
I enjoyed seeing the fantasy tropes mingling with those of the science fiction genre. Warring goblins, prim and proper elves, and other fantasy races were portrayed wonderfully. I appreciated that big problems weren’t solved by the proverbial space-cavalry charging in, and that the two kids in the story were the captains of their own fates. There were multiple times when bad things would happen to our heroes and I couldn’t begin to fathom how they would get out of it. In each case, I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
If you or your child likes classic fantasy and/or science fiction, Nova Dragon is a good, fun read. It’s written for middle grade, but the story is such that all can enjoy it.
October 26, 2020
My children and I really enjoyed "Nova Dragon," by Gama Ray Martinez! My boys are 7 and 9 years old and every night when I said it was time to stop they would ask to read one more chapter. We fell in love with Radek and Ovian, the two main boys in the story. They went on some crazy adventures in space and had to use magic to get out of some difficult situations. Having humans, elves, goblins, dragons, and more in this book, really made for an exciting story and my kids can't wait to read the next book in the series, "Runestone Fleet."
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