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Dragon's Call #1
Embers at Galdrilene
The war between the Guardians and the Shadow Riders ended in total devastation. The final battle killed all the dragons and left nothing but fields of ash. A small clutch of dragon eggs was all that remained to provide hope for the future. Five hundred years later, the ability to use magic is a death sentence and dragons are remembered as a curse. But the unhatched dragons sing for their riders...and six lives will be changed forever. The elements of magic are drawn together as the dragons' call leads them on a journey where they learn everything they've been taught to believe about magic and dragons is wrong. When an evil from the past rises again, and Shadow Dragons ride the dawn once more, they will risk everything to save a future none of them thought possible.
476 pages, Paperback
First published May 4, 2012
84 people are currently reading
1139 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Trosper
16 books192 followersWriter, mother, ruler of the world inside my head.
I live on the plains of west central Kansas with my husband, three children, two dogs, one cat, and flock of spoiled laying hens.
You can find out more about me at: www.adtrosper.com
https://linktr.ee/adtrosper
I live on the plains of west central Kansas with my husband, three children, two dogs, one cat, and flock of spoiled laying hens.
You can find out more about me at: www.adtrosper.com
https://linktr.ee/adtrosper
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 28, 2016
Don't get me wrong, I love high fantasy and I love the premise behind this book. It seems like a cross between Eragon and Dragonriders of Pern when you read the description, and even the prologue draws you in from the start.
[[MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD I SUPPOSE]]
But.
I have no idea why this book has so many wonderful reviews. In every creative writing class I have ever taken, every english class I've ever been in, every book on writing I have ever seen, there has been one universal rule: Show, don't tell. And let me tell you, this book can tell tell tell.
The entire time I was reading it all I could think was, "When does the story begin? When does the struggle start?" These people have been living their lives in a world where people voluntarily die if they find out that they have magic, simply because they've always been told that they will go insane and hurt/kill their loved ones if they don't. So we meet this guy, a warrior in his land. Someone who has honor drilled in to him from day one. He realizes he has magic and he's freaked out, understandably. And a woman he has never met in his entire life walks up to him and pretty much just says abandon your life and come with me. Magic's cool. Also, you won't go insane. And he's just like "Oh. Okay."
This proceeds to happen about six more times.
So then I'm thinking, well obviously that just means that stuff's gonna happen while they're travelling there! There's gonna be a bunch of stuff about people attacking them while they try to reach a safe haven! There's going to be people following them, trying to kill them!
They get attacked once and our o-wise-one character is pretty much just like, "Okay so we're gonna take a shortcut guys. Let's travel through the land of the dead for a few hours. Also, you guys are the hope for our future but this might kill you. Nbd." Except then the next few chapters are just everyone complaining about how tired they are. Oh, and there's a ghost dragon following them which is apparently nothing out of the ordinary that they need to think about at all. We don't even get a good scenery description because hey, there's fog everywhere! But it's okay, 'cause it's a SAFE fog.
So I think, "Well then the story is going to be them bonding with their dragons and learning things and figuring out their powers!" Once again, I am disappointed to find that not only is this NOT the case, but there are actually detailed descriptions of them MEETING the people that are going to train them, each person individually to the point that this ends up taking CHAPTERS, and then the narration tells you "They're doing great! It's been like a year or something now. Moving on."
No struggle. No learning. No depth. No character development, just a bunch of telling you what has happened.
Bad is purely bad, good is purely good. The theif even gets along with the guards juuust fiiiine after a couple pages. These are people with entirely different lives forced together into something they had absolutely no real choice in (which yes, they had to choose to accept their dragons but they still have their pretty magic powers) and there's no story there? Are you kidding?
There's not even a good romance novel in it. The interaction between the "bondmates" is laughable. It's like they just woke up one day and were in love.
And then JUUUST when it seems like the story might be advancing, it switches perspectives and starts it all over, just from the bad guys perspective.
Don't get me wrong, this novel was a valient effort and it really wasn't bad. I just didn't like it, and according to the Goodreads rating system that equals one star.
[[MAJOR SPOILERS AHEAD I SUPPOSE]]
But.
I have no idea why this book has so many wonderful reviews. In every creative writing class I have ever taken, every english class I've ever been in, every book on writing I have ever seen, there has been one universal rule: Show, don't tell. And let me tell you, this book can tell tell tell.
The entire time I was reading it all I could think was, "When does the story begin? When does the struggle start?" These people have been living their lives in a world where people voluntarily die if they find out that they have magic, simply because they've always been told that they will go insane and hurt/kill their loved ones if they don't. So we meet this guy, a warrior in his land. Someone who has honor drilled in to him from day one. He realizes he has magic and he's freaked out, understandably. And a woman he has never met in his entire life walks up to him and pretty much just says abandon your life and come with me. Magic's cool. Also, you won't go insane. And he's just like "Oh. Okay."
This proceeds to happen about six more times.
So then I'm thinking, well obviously that just means that stuff's gonna happen while they're travelling there! There's gonna be a bunch of stuff about people attacking them while they try to reach a safe haven! There's going to be people following them, trying to kill them!
They get attacked once and our o-wise-one character is pretty much just like, "Okay so we're gonna take a shortcut guys. Let's travel through the land of the dead for a few hours. Also, you guys are the hope for our future but this might kill you. Nbd." Except then the next few chapters are just everyone complaining about how tired they are. Oh, and there's a ghost dragon following them which is apparently nothing out of the ordinary that they need to think about at all. We don't even get a good scenery description because hey, there's fog everywhere! But it's okay, 'cause it's a SAFE fog.
So I think, "Well then the story is going to be them bonding with their dragons and learning things and figuring out their powers!" Once again, I am disappointed to find that not only is this NOT the case, but there are actually detailed descriptions of them MEETING the people that are going to train them, each person individually to the point that this ends up taking CHAPTERS, and then the narration tells you "They're doing great! It's been like a year or something now. Moving on."
No struggle. No learning. No depth. No character development, just a bunch of telling you what has happened.
Bad is purely bad, good is purely good. The theif even gets along with the guards juuust fiiiine after a couple pages. These are people with entirely different lives forced together into something they had absolutely no real choice in (which yes, they had to choose to accept their dragons but they still have their pretty magic powers) and there's no story there? Are you kidding?
There's not even a good romance novel in it. The interaction between the "bondmates" is laughable. It's like they just woke up one day and were in love.
And then JUUUST when it seems like the story might be advancing, it switches perspectives and starts it all over, just from the bad guys perspective.
Don't get me wrong, this novel was a valient effort and it really wasn't bad. I just didn't like it, and according to the Goodreads rating system that equals one star.
May 14, 2013
Books like this are the reason I LOVE to read.
I was all in after the first chapter. WOW what a story. So let me tell you about this book without giving to much away (Because this is such an awesome book I want you to discover all the details on your own)......
Cover: It's interesting I actually like it.
Characters: These are the kind of characters you miss when you are finished reading the book.
Book Flow: Not bad. It builds in the beginning then kind of flattens out before it gets to an amazing ending.
Story: Keeps your interest, Its an original story.
POV: Its a bunch of POV's of all the character.
"The Foundling is strong. Only great power and a blood connection could pull me here.
For you and for the draclet she will bond, I will continue to shield her
from the lake while she is still in it."
Review:
It has been a long time since I found a Fantasy book that I not only loved but seriously could not put down. There are 6 main characters to follow in this book as well as a few secondary that could also be considered main characters as well. The story builds with a world that believes Magic is a curse and Dragons were Evil. Emallaya an Elder Dragon Rider is trying to find the 6 young adults (Foundlings as they are called) that can hear the dragon song before the evil Benduiren can kill them. The Dragon song is something only the Dragon Riders can hear. After she gathers all the "Foundlings" they travel to Galdrilene were each future rider will hatch a dragon egg and become a true Dragon Rider. But the Evil Benduiren are also looking for Shadow Riders to hatch the Black Dragons.
The story was amazing, the characters were fantastic, the book was an I couldn't put it down no matter how hard I tried kinda book and when it was over I wanted to cry. Thank the lord its a series!!! I can not wait for the next book. I actually couldn't stop thinking about this book once I was done. I really felt a strong connection with the characters.
I gave the book 4 stars but If I loved it so much why only 4? I loved the entire book. I did feel the middle was longer then I would have wanted. I understand the reason for it but I think reading the same thing in a bunch of different points of view was a lot. You do get a LOT of information and the story does build just thought some parts were not necessary. Then you get to the end and are like OMG this is amazing. I also kind of wished you were able to learn more about the Shadow Riders the same way you did the Dragon Riders.
Regardless I loved the book. I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a fresh and new story in a fantastic fantasy world. With a touch of Romance. This is truly a great read. It actually makes me want to find more YA Fantasty books to read. I seriously can not wait for the next one!!!!
For more visit my blog http://love2readalways.blogspot.com/
I was all in after the first chapter. WOW what a story. So let me tell you about this book without giving to much away (Because this is such an awesome book I want you to discover all the details on your own)......
Cover: It's interesting I actually like it.
Characters: These are the kind of characters you miss when you are finished reading the book.
Book Flow: Not bad. It builds in the beginning then kind of flattens out before it gets to an amazing ending.
Story: Keeps your interest, Its an original story.
POV: Its a bunch of POV's of all the character.
"The Foundling is strong. Only great power and a blood connection could pull me here.
For you and for the draclet she will bond, I will continue to shield her
from the lake while she is still in it."
Review:
It has been a long time since I found a Fantasy book that I not only loved but seriously could not put down. There are 6 main characters to follow in this book as well as a few secondary that could also be considered main characters as well. The story builds with a world that believes Magic is a curse and Dragons were Evil. Emallaya an Elder Dragon Rider is trying to find the 6 young adults (Foundlings as they are called) that can hear the dragon song before the evil Benduiren can kill them. The Dragon song is something only the Dragon Riders can hear. After she gathers all the "Foundlings" they travel to Galdrilene were each future rider will hatch a dragon egg and become a true Dragon Rider. But the Evil Benduiren are also looking for Shadow Riders to hatch the Black Dragons.
The story was amazing, the characters were fantastic, the book was an I couldn't put it down no matter how hard I tried kinda book and when it was over I wanted to cry. Thank the lord its a series!!! I can not wait for the next book. I actually couldn't stop thinking about this book once I was done. I really felt a strong connection with the characters.
I gave the book 4 stars but If I loved it so much why only 4? I loved the entire book. I did feel the middle was longer then I would have wanted. I understand the reason for it but I think reading the same thing in a bunch of different points of view was a lot. You do get a LOT of information and the story does build just thought some parts were not necessary. Then you get to the end and are like OMG this is amazing. I also kind of wished you were able to learn more about the Shadow Riders the same way you did the Dragon Riders.
Regardless I loved the book. I strongly recommend to anyone looking for a fresh and new story in a fantastic fantasy world. With a touch of Romance. This is truly a great read. It actually makes me want to find more YA Fantasty books to read. I seriously can not wait for the next one!!!!
For more visit my blog http://love2readalways.blogspot.com/
August 12, 2013
Chapter by chapter, each character received a sturdy introduction, stepping solidly into my imagination. I could see them, and following their story created great pictures in my head.
Many novels of dragons and their riders flood bookshelves, yet this one, I felt, was a little different. The author took the time to build the relationships needed for the action to come.
The intricate details about each character, like Kellinar the thief, or Maleena the young woman shunned by the people of her village, brings the story to life. The bonds of friendship are remarkable and those bonds push them to the limits for each other. Another interesting aspect of relationships in this book is the one the riders develop with their dragons.
Evil lurks at every corner and eventually bursts, bringing forth a vivid confrontation that kept me at the edge of my seat, turning page after page. The story builds to explode in a clash prepared with art and enchanting words – a battle of magic and swords. With vivid and detailed descriptions, I was there, watching the battle.
Unexpected twists to the overall story will catch your breath, making you read on just so you can fill your lungs again. The novel is a great and entertaining read. A must if you are a dragon lover.
Many novels of dragons and their riders flood bookshelves, yet this one, I felt, was a little different. The author took the time to build the relationships needed for the action to come.
The intricate details about each character, like Kellinar the thief, or Maleena the young woman shunned by the people of her village, brings the story to life. The bonds of friendship are remarkable and those bonds push them to the limits for each other. Another interesting aspect of relationships in this book is the one the riders develop with their dragons.
Evil lurks at every corner and eventually bursts, bringing forth a vivid confrontation that kept me at the edge of my seat, turning page after page. The story builds to explode in a clash prepared with art and enchanting words – a battle of magic and swords. With vivid and detailed descriptions, I was there, watching the battle.
Unexpected twists to the overall story will catch your breath, making you read on just so you can fill your lungs again. The novel is a great and entertaining read. A must if you are a dragon lover.
September 1, 2012
I received this book as a gift, and I was so impressed by this excellent story! The characters and setting were vividly detailed, and the storyline was unique and enticing. I loved that the characters had strong bonds and connections to other beings, and Trosper did a magnificent job with pacing and stringing together the plot. The term bondmate was beautifully used, and the telepathy between the characters made for a fascinating read.
A.D. Trosper has a wonderful talent with words, and should be considered a master in the fantasy genre. Everything seemed to come alive and hit at the emotions of each and every moment the author described. It was as if you were there, experiencing the sorrow or joy alongside the characters, which is no easy feat and one that only truly talented writers can claim as their own.
I couldn’t put the book down, and read it in less than a week. I cannot commend the author enough for creating a story that was both vivid and enjoyable enough to leave me begging for more!
A.D. Trosper has a wonderful talent with words, and should be considered a master in the fantasy genre. Everything seemed to come alive and hit at the emotions of each and every moment the author described. It was as if you were there, experiencing the sorrow or joy alongside the characters, which is no easy feat and one that only truly talented writers can claim as their own.
I couldn’t put the book down, and read it in less than a week. I cannot commend the author enough for creating a story that was both vivid and enjoyable enough to leave me begging for more!
April 11, 2022
Eragon meets the Dragonriders of Pern with a little twist- that's the tagline I'd use to describe Embers at Galdrilene.
The daring debut by A.D. Trosper, now polished and republished with brand new totally awesome covers, is one of those books that any fan of dragons would be tempted to pick up.
The premise is great. The final battle in a war between Guardians and Shadow Riders ended in total devastation, killing all the dragons and leaving only a small clutch of dragon eggs behind, to provide hope for the future. Five hundred years later, when dragons were only remembered as a curse and the ability to use magic was a death sentence, six people are drawn together as the unhatched dragons call for their riders.
The story kicks off with the introduction of each of the six new riders, one after another, as they are found and gathered by an elder Guardian. And then we get to see their journey towards the dragon hold, their bonding with dragons, as well as other great things I do not want to spoil.
As I mentioned before, I loved the premise and liked the dragons. The pacing is good, while the characters themselves are pretty likeable too, each and everyone of them. Points extra for the great battle scene at the end.
And yet, I cannot say this book has swept me off my feet. Because of several reasons.
Some decisions seem to be taken too fast and be too convenient, some parts seemed overly explained while others seemed glossed over, and then there were the dragons themselves.
While they were great, their bond with the riders didn't sing to me. Perhaps because of the large number of POVs and lesser page count spent on revealing the depth of that connection. The occasional tell instead of show didn't help either.
And even though this is a book about dragons and riders, it seemed more focused on the riders themselves, as well as the major conflict as a whole, than on the dragons and their rider bond.
As a dragon addict so to say, I have high expectations as far as any dragon book is concerned. To be a 5 star read, it will need to make me feel the rider's joy and sorrow, and the warmth flowing through the bond. I want to see them grow together, adjust to a new life and struggle with new beliefs. I want to feel that wonder of a little dragonet touching a rider's mind for the very first time and witness that connection growing. Because to me, that is the best part of a dragon rider tale. And here is where Embers at Galdrilene fell a little short for me.
The daring debut by A.D. Trosper, now polished and republished with brand new totally awesome covers, is one of those books that any fan of dragons would be tempted to pick up.
The premise is great. The final battle in a war between Guardians and Shadow Riders ended in total devastation, killing all the dragons and leaving only a small clutch of dragon eggs behind, to provide hope for the future. Five hundred years later, when dragons were only remembered as a curse and the ability to use magic was a death sentence, six people are drawn together as the unhatched dragons call for their riders.
The story kicks off with the introduction of each of the six new riders, one after another, as they are found and gathered by an elder Guardian. And then we get to see their journey towards the dragon hold, their bonding with dragons, as well as other great things I do not want to spoil.
As I mentioned before, I loved the premise and liked the dragons. The pacing is good, while the characters themselves are pretty likeable too, each and everyone of them. Points extra for the great battle scene at the end.
And yet, I cannot say this book has swept me off my feet. Because of several reasons.
Some decisions seem to be taken too fast and be too convenient, some parts seemed overly explained while others seemed glossed over, and then there were the dragons themselves.
While they were great, their bond with the riders didn't sing to me. Perhaps because of the large number of POVs and lesser page count spent on revealing the depth of that connection. The occasional tell instead of show didn't help either.
And even though this is a book about dragons and riders, it seemed more focused on the riders themselves, as well as the major conflict as a whole, than on the dragons and their rider bond.
As a dragon addict so to say, I have high expectations as far as any dragon book is concerned. To be a 5 star read, it will need to make me feel the rider's joy and sorrow, and the warmth flowing through the bond. I want to see them grow together, adjust to a new life and struggle with new beliefs. I want to feel that wonder of a little dragonet touching a rider's mind for the very first time and witness that connection growing. Because to me, that is the best part of a dragon rider tale. And here is where Embers at Galdrilene fell a little short for me.
October 21, 2012
I found this story quite captivating; it is a good read for all ages. I like my stories very character driven, with good interactions between the characters and the world. This book had both. The writer has a way of pulling you into the book through point of view from all the main characters. Ms Trosper created a story that is so visually real the reader actually feels as though you can reach out and touch the characters
May 23, 2013
http://openbooksociety.com/article/em...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Caro
*Beware of Spoilers!*
The story starts off with a deadly battle taking place between the Dragon Riders, which accompany magical dragons of beautiful bright colors, and the Shadow Riders, that have given half of their souls to awaken black as night colored dragons that only seek distraction. As the war takes its death tolls, there are no more dragons or Riders to stand and fight for the magical land of Galdrilene. Only one couple, Emallya and Bardeck, barely survive with one injured dragon, protecting the last remaining unhatched eggs.
Hundreds of years later in a time where using magic is seen as dangerous, new Riders are being summoned by the Dragon’s Call or song, that only those who are meant to ride and have the magic, can hear it. During this first part of the book, the author introduces the reader to the new six Riders that have to safely find their way to Galdrilene, with the help of Emallya, once a Spirit Rider. Along this road trip, we first meet Vaddok a Boder Guard, Serena an ex-healer apprentice and her friend the Lord of Thieves Kellinar.
At this point, I was still waiting for the story to fully catch my attention, the pace of the book was quite suitable but it took me a while to come across that certain moment in the story line that would really get me into the plot. Since the moment I read the synopsis for this book I had high hopes and I didn’t want it to let me down. Everything was well described, which is something that I just love because it helps me to get a better visual of the plot and its characters. This is what I like about a book, being able to picture the scenes in my mind as if it were my own personal movie and I’m thankful that author A.D. Trosper did a good job.
When the first three Riders finally come across Kirynn a strong female warrior, Maleena a petit lonely woman and McKale a stranger she recently met, they can now start hatching theirs eggs. The road trip, up until now, ends with the group arriving to Galdrilene after being attacked by deadly evil creatures called Kojen. I liked how each character was described before they all came together, each one of them had an interesting background with different positions and families. As they developed throughout their journey, there were two characters that I was really interested in so far and one, unexpectedly, bloomed more than the other, yet without leaving the other one behind. Making me desperately wanted to get to the end to read how it would all conclude.
Something interesting in this story is, the bond mate theme. The riders can only have a mate if their dragons find a mate for themselves, which would automatically make that dragon’s Rider his or her mate. In some way, I liked how the bond between mates and dragons was described and used in the plot. It gives the story that romance factor that it needs, especially when you know there will be fight scenes involved and you’re hoping that the couples don’t get hurt or worse killed. Let me use the ship term for a moment and just add that my ship of Kellinar and Serena sank. I might have gotten my conclusions, too early, but I really thought that Serena and Kellinar would end up bond mates. Since McKale and Maleena were bonded together, even before their eggs hatched, I assumed that the next couples would be Kirynn with Vaddoc and Serena with Kellinar, which didn’t happen and then it just took a very radical twist and Kellinar ended up with more than he could handle, or so I think.
Now, at this point, the story really starts to unravel and when you think that author A.D. Trosper is done introducing her characters, she gives you another handful to get to know but this time from the bad side, just what we need. For those who thought Cinderella was always the good character, you were wrong. We’re introduced to a Shadow Rider similar to a Cinderella type but evil, whom without hesitation kills one of her step-sisters, giving her the right to hatch a black egg. Author A.D. Trosper, lets us know that the riders and mages have the magic and it is up to them how they use it and which side they choose to go to. I am really curious as to what Sadira will do with her power in the next book, Tears of War.
Another aspect, which I liked about the Riders, was their ability to jump or slide between one place and the other with the help of their dragons. I just enjoy a good use of magical abilities. One of my favorite scenes was when Maleena accidently slides, while trying to think of a way to save Taela and Paki, to where they were. Her emotions and a clear vision activated the jump by accident. At this point I am fully in love with the book. This was my favorite rescue/fight scene of all the book. It definitely didn’t let me down.
This is definitely a great Fantasy/Dragon book to read. If you’re a fan of dragons and magic this is a book for you and even if you’re not, still give it a try. The characters will win you over with their hidden cards and by the end of the book you’ll wish you too had a dragon by your side. I wish I could tell you more about this story but I’m afraid I’d give it all away, if I haven’t yet. This will be one of my favorite books of the year. Author A.D. Trosper did an amazing job delivering a magical story just the way she wanted it to be and at the same time winning herself some fans in the process. All I have to do now is wait for the second book, which hopefully will be ready for us to read later this year. Finally, hear the song and let it guide you to your egg.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Caro
*Beware of Spoilers!*
The story starts off with a deadly battle taking place between the Dragon Riders, which accompany magical dragons of beautiful bright colors, and the Shadow Riders, that have given half of their souls to awaken black as night colored dragons that only seek distraction. As the war takes its death tolls, there are no more dragons or Riders to stand and fight for the magical land of Galdrilene. Only one couple, Emallya and Bardeck, barely survive with one injured dragon, protecting the last remaining unhatched eggs.
Hundreds of years later in a time where using magic is seen as dangerous, new Riders are being summoned by the Dragon’s Call or song, that only those who are meant to ride and have the magic, can hear it. During this first part of the book, the author introduces the reader to the new six Riders that have to safely find their way to Galdrilene, with the help of Emallya, once a Spirit Rider. Along this road trip, we first meet Vaddok a Boder Guard, Serena an ex-healer apprentice and her friend the Lord of Thieves Kellinar.
At this point, I was still waiting for the story to fully catch my attention, the pace of the book was quite suitable but it took me a while to come across that certain moment in the story line that would really get me into the plot. Since the moment I read the synopsis for this book I had high hopes and I didn’t want it to let me down. Everything was well described, which is something that I just love because it helps me to get a better visual of the plot and its characters. This is what I like about a book, being able to picture the scenes in my mind as if it were my own personal movie and I’m thankful that author A.D. Trosper did a good job.
When the first three Riders finally come across Kirynn a strong female warrior, Maleena a petit lonely woman and McKale a stranger she recently met, they can now start hatching theirs eggs. The road trip, up until now, ends with the group arriving to Galdrilene after being attacked by deadly evil creatures called Kojen. I liked how each character was described before they all came together, each one of them had an interesting background with different positions and families. As they developed throughout their journey, there were two characters that I was really interested in so far and one, unexpectedly, bloomed more than the other, yet without leaving the other one behind. Making me desperately wanted to get to the end to read how it would all conclude.
Something interesting in this story is, the bond mate theme. The riders can only have a mate if their dragons find a mate for themselves, which would automatically make that dragon’s Rider his or her mate. In some way, I liked how the bond between mates and dragons was described and used in the plot. It gives the story that romance factor that it needs, especially when you know there will be fight scenes involved and you’re hoping that the couples don’t get hurt or worse killed. Let me use the ship term for a moment and just add that my ship of Kellinar and Serena sank. I might have gotten my conclusions, too early, but I really thought that Serena and Kellinar would end up bond mates. Since McKale and Maleena were bonded together, even before their eggs hatched, I assumed that the next couples would be Kirynn with Vaddoc and Serena with Kellinar, which didn’t happen and then it just took a very radical twist and Kellinar ended up with more than he could handle, or so I think.
Now, at this point, the story really starts to unravel and when you think that author A.D. Trosper is done introducing her characters, she gives you another handful to get to know but this time from the bad side, just what we need. For those who thought Cinderella was always the good character, you were wrong. We’re introduced to a Shadow Rider similar to a Cinderella type but evil, whom without hesitation kills one of her step-sisters, giving her the right to hatch a black egg. Author A.D. Trosper, lets us know that the riders and mages have the magic and it is up to them how they use it and which side they choose to go to. I am really curious as to what Sadira will do with her power in the next book, Tears of War.
Another aspect, which I liked about the Riders, was their ability to jump or slide between one place and the other with the help of their dragons. I just enjoy a good use of magical abilities. One of my favorite scenes was when Maleena accidently slides, while trying to think of a way to save Taela and Paki, to where they were. Her emotions and a clear vision activated the jump by accident. At this point I am fully in love with the book. This was my favorite rescue/fight scene of all the book. It definitely didn’t let me down.
This is definitely a great Fantasy/Dragon book to read. If you’re a fan of dragons and magic this is a book for you and even if you’re not, still give it a try. The characters will win you over with their hidden cards and by the end of the book you’ll wish you too had a dragon by your side. I wish I could tell you more about this story but I’m afraid I’d give it all away, if I haven’t yet. This will be one of my favorite books of the year. Author A.D. Trosper did an amazing job delivering a magical story just the way she wanted it to be and at the same time winning herself some fans in the process. All I have to do now is wait for the second book, which hopefully will be ready for us to read later this year. Finally, hear the song and let it guide you to your egg.
March 17, 2013
This novel came across my desk and when I seen the title and synopsis, I automatically put it aside. I for one am not a big fan of Fantasy Fiction; honestly I’m not even remotely interested in any aspect of that genre. But… it was recommended as a “well written novel,” so a smirk crossed my face and the overwhelming feeling of a challenge engulfed me. The challenge to reinforce my firm standing, and lack of interest for the Fantasy genre, as well as to see exactly how “well” this novel could possibly be written. I decided to pick up my copy of Embers at Galdrilene, and… I didn’t put it down until I finished it.
You can feel the air coarse and flow through your hair while you see the horizon arc before your eyes. The ground is soaring below you in a blur. Your hands grip the tough leather reigns tightly intertwined through your fingers. You’re riding a dragon. Yes a dragon, and you’ve never felt so alive. Your stomach drops as your dragon dives. The cutting sound of wings slicing through the air surrounds you. This is your dragon, and you’re the rider. You’re a dragon rider. You feel a heart beat, so close you would think that it’s right beside your own. That beat you feel is your dragon’s heart beating. You feel it as if it’s your own because that is the bond you share with your dragon, an indescribable bond that only you and your dragon can share. Your dragon levels out and coasts through the air, this is how you feel… This is how you feel as a Dragon Rider.
This is how I felt as a reader during my journey through Galdrilene with all the dragon riders. A.D. Trosper can steal you from where you are and take you into her own world. Her attention to detail and character point of view was so well that it makes you, the reader, feel and see what all her characters can. The story line was great, and definitely a page-turner. There were more than a dozen times and instances where I felt on my toes and left in suspense. The ending leaves you wanting more, and I’m looking forward to the second installment of the Dragon's Call titled Tears of War, which is still in writing. I continue to remain no fan to fantasy fiction, but I have become a fan of A.D. Trosper and her uniquely, and yes, “well” written novel, Embers At Galdrilene. I honestly recommend this novel, even to those that aren’t fans of the specific genre. It’s more than a good read and it’s a nice change of pace from my usual taste. So if you’re looking for something that can be a temporary escape from reality, then pick up or download your copy of Embers At Galdrilene today. A.D. Trosper is an author where a reader should stay up to date and followed up with to see what’s new and conjuring up in her vivid imagination.
Written by Blackbird LSD Staff Writer Daniel Mariano | daniel.mariano@BlackbirdLSD.com
*This was a non-solicited review by Blackbird LSD (c) 2013
[ www.Facebook.com/BlackbirdLSD.com | www.BlackbirdLSD.com ]
You can feel the air coarse and flow through your hair while you see the horizon arc before your eyes. The ground is soaring below you in a blur. Your hands grip the tough leather reigns tightly intertwined through your fingers. You’re riding a dragon. Yes a dragon, and you’ve never felt so alive. Your stomach drops as your dragon dives. The cutting sound of wings slicing through the air surrounds you. This is your dragon, and you’re the rider. You’re a dragon rider. You feel a heart beat, so close you would think that it’s right beside your own. That beat you feel is your dragon’s heart beating. You feel it as if it’s your own because that is the bond you share with your dragon, an indescribable bond that only you and your dragon can share. Your dragon levels out and coasts through the air, this is how you feel… This is how you feel as a Dragon Rider.
This is how I felt as a reader during my journey through Galdrilene with all the dragon riders. A.D. Trosper can steal you from where you are and take you into her own world. Her attention to detail and character point of view was so well that it makes you, the reader, feel and see what all her characters can. The story line was great, and definitely a page-turner. There were more than a dozen times and instances where I felt on my toes and left in suspense. The ending leaves you wanting more, and I’m looking forward to the second installment of the Dragon's Call titled Tears of War, which is still in writing. I continue to remain no fan to fantasy fiction, but I have become a fan of A.D. Trosper and her uniquely, and yes, “well” written novel, Embers At Galdrilene. I honestly recommend this novel, even to those that aren’t fans of the specific genre. It’s more than a good read and it’s a nice change of pace from my usual taste. So if you’re looking for something that can be a temporary escape from reality, then pick up or download your copy of Embers At Galdrilene today. A.D. Trosper is an author where a reader should stay up to date and followed up with to see what’s new and conjuring up in her vivid imagination.
Written by Blackbird LSD Staff Writer Daniel Mariano | daniel.mariano@BlackbirdLSD.com
*This was a non-solicited review by Blackbird LSD (c) 2013
[ www.Facebook.com/BlackbirdLSD.com | www.BlackbirdLSD.com ]
December 10, 2012
After far too long, my TBR pile finally presented me with a book I’ve been dying to dig into: "Embers at Galdrilene," by A.D. Trosper. And, armed with a bit ‘o time on my hands (courtesy of the long holiday weekend), I did just that.
Wow! Trosper really hits one out of the park on her first try. I’m no expert on fantasy, but I know what I like … and I like this book a lot. It didn’t hurt that a few early scenes reminded me of some of my all-time favorite stories (Kellinar and Serena’s early flight was reminiscent of the hobbits’ flight to Bree in LOTR (including an ill-fated stop at an inn and an encounter with a dark rider), and when Serena calls Kellinar a scoundrel, a similar exchange between Leia and Han flashed through my mind), but, make no mistake, "Embers" burns with a fire all its own.
Along the way, I was introduced to some awesome new adjectives—dragon-blasted and fate-forsaken being my two faves—and took great pleasure in this new adage: “beauty is only a lamp wick away.”
So true!
The novel is chock full of characters—from heroes/heroines to dragons to evil ones—so I took to jotting quick notes to help me keep track at first. Trosper’s characters are compelling and well described, so I don’t recommend this for all readers; just the ones, like me, who may be inclined to read faster than he/she can properly digest.
Kirynn is my favorite character. Not only is she intelligent, loyal, and skilled … but she’s also totally babe-alicious and doesn’t give a damn. In fact, she offers my favorite line in the book (while ruminating on her physical attraction to Vaddoc): “As long as he doesn’t get too attached or try to make a claim on her, she wouldn’t mind taking a turn in bed with him someday.”
While other characters are finding bondmates, at least someone’s got her fate-forsaken priorities straight! LOL
The book began with a flurry of action and tension. Then the pace of the middle third (or so) of the book slowed down, as Trosper focused on world building and adding depth to the relationships of the main characters. It was well done and necessary—there’s a whole lotta story goin’ on—but I found myself chomping at the bit before too long. I’m quite an impatient reader once I’ve tasted the good stuff.
And Trosper delivered again! The ending was fast and furious, while effectively bringing the story to a satisfying, but not complete, conclusion. The tale is simply too big for that.
"Embers" is the first book in the "Dragon’s Call" trilogy. Book two is currently underway, so I hope Trosper keeps her nose to the grindstone and her fingers on the keyboard, because I’m dragon-blasted impatient!
I highly recommend "Embers at Galdrilene" to fantasy fans and anyone who loves great fiction.
Wow! Trosper really hits one out of the park on her first try. I’m no expert on fantasy, but I know what I like … and I like this book a lot. It didn’t hurt that a few early scenes reminded me of some of my all-time favorite stories (Kellinar and Serena’s early flight was reminiscent of the hobbits’ flight to Bree in LOTR (including an ill-fated stop at an inn and an encounter with a dark rider), and when Serena calls Kellinar a scoundrel, a similar exchange between Leia and Han flashed through my mind), but, make no mistake, "Embers" burns with a fire all its own.
Along the way, I was introduced to some awesome new adjectives—dragon-blasted and fate-forsaken being my two faves—and took great pleasure in this new adage: “beauty is only a lamp wick away.”
So true!
The novel is chock full of characters—from heroes/heroines to dragons to evil ones—so I took to jotting quick notes to help me keep track at first. Trosper’s characters are compelling and well described, so I don’t recommend this for all readers; just the ones, like me, who may be inclined to read faster than he/she can properly digest.
Kirynn is my favorite character. Not only is she intelligent, loyal, and skilled … but she’s also totally babe-alicious and doesn’t give a damn. In fact, she offers my favorite line in the book (while ruminating on her physical attraction to Vaddoc): “As long as he doesn’t get too attached or try to make a claim on her, she wouldn’t mind taking a turn in bed with him someday.”
While other characters are finding bondmates, at least someone’s got her fate-forsaken priorities straight! LOL
The book began with a flurry of action and tension. Then the pace of the middle third (or so) of the book slowed down, as Trosper focused on world building and adding depth to the relationships of the main characters. It was well done and necessary—there’s a whole lotta story goin’ on—but I found myself chomping at the bit before too long. I’m quite an impatient reader once I’ve tasted the good stuff.
And Trosper delivered again! The ending was fast and furious, while effectively bringing the story to a satisfying, but not complete, conclusion. The tale is simply too big for that.
"Embers" is the first book in the "Dragon’s Call" trilogy. Book two is currently underway, so I hope Trosper keeps her nose to the grindstone and her fingers on the keyboard, because I’m dragon-blasted impatient!
I highly recommend "Embers at Galdrilene" to fantasy fans and anyone who loves great fiction.
March 22, 2013
Embers at Galdrilene (Dragon Wars) by A.D. Trosper is an enchanting fantasy novel that is full of adventure. In the book, the war between the Guardians and the Shadow Riders ended in total devastation with the final battle killing the dragons and leaving nothing but fields of ash. A small clutch of dragon eggs was all that remained to provide hope for the future. Five hundred years later, the ability to use magic is a death sentence and dragons are remembered as a curse. But the unhatched dragons sing for their riders and soon things will change. Six young people with elemental magic are drawn together as the dragons’ call leads them on an epic and dangerous journey of discovery. They soon learn everything they've been taught to believe about magic and dragons is wrong.
I absolutely loved this book!! It has it all - dragons and dragon riders, elemental magic, evil creatures, love & soulmates, friendship, action, adventure...what more could a fantasy lover want?!? The world that A.D. Trosper created was realistic and yet full of fantasy elements and unique ideas. And the characters that A.D. Trosper created were wonderful. Sometimes books that have a lot of important characters are hard to follow and keep track of the different characters, but the characters in Embers at Galdrilene were so well-developed that I didn't have that problem. Each character has such a strong and unique personality and I got to know each character throughout the book.
The story was unique and interesting. It had a lot of action and adventure. But it also had a lot of touching moments between friends and soulmates. This book made me laugh out loud several times...and it tugged at my heart at other times...and it gave me chills at other times (normally parts involving the evil Sadira).
I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers of all ages. After reading it, I am now a huge fan of A.D. Trosper's and I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out.
I absolutely loved this book!! It has it all - dragons and dragon riders, elemental magic, evil creatures, love & soulmates, friendship, action, adventure...what more could a fantasy lover want?!? The world that A.D. Trosper created was realistic and yet full of fantasy elements and unique ideas. And the characters that A.D. Trosper created were wonderful. Sometimes books that have a lot of important characters are hard to follow and keep track of the different characters, but the characters in Embers at Galdrilene were so well-developed that I didn't have that problem. Each character has such a strong and unique personality and I got to know each character throughout the book.
The story was unique and interesting. It had a lot of action and adventure. But it also had a lot of touching moments between friends and soulmates. This book made me laugh out loud several times...and it tugged at my heart at other times...and it gave me chills at other times (normally parts involving the evil Sadira).
I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers of all ages. After reading it, I am now a huge fan of A.D. Trosper's and I cannot wait for the next book in this series to come out.
June 20, 2012
4.5/5 stars
I love me a good fantasy. And dragons make things even better. :) That said, let's get to the book.
Before reading this, I didn't realize it wasn't a stand-alone book. So now I have to wait to find out what happens. Arg. I'm not really a patient person. So be aware before you start reading: while many things are resolved at the end of this book, there's a great big problem that isn't.
The characters are well thought out, and the plot is great. I loved Galdrilene itself, and the idea of the dragon eggs singing to those who are meant to hatch them.
There are a lot of Point-Of-View characters in this one. Some of them have several chapters throughout the book, others have much less POV time. It could have flopped, but it didn't. It was done well, and it worked. My one complaint about the many POVs is that there are times you see the same thing from multiple POVs, which honestly got to be a bit much. I sometimes felt like the story was stalled while we saw so many views of the same thing. HOWEVER. I know myself. If we'd only seen from one person's POV, I'd have been unhappy that I didn't get to see how the other characters reacted to things. I know, you just can't win with me, can you?
I love me a good fantasy. And dragons make things even better. :) That said, let's get to the book.
Before reading this, I didn't realize it wasn't a stand-alone book. So now I have to wait to find out what happens. Arg. I'm not really a patient person. So be aware before you start reading: while many things are resolved at the end of this book, there's a great big problem that isn't.
The characters are well thought out, and the plot is great. I loved Galdrilene itself, and the idea of the dragon eggs singing to those who are meant to hatch them.
There are a lot of Point-Of-View characters in this one. Some of them have several chapters throughout the book, others have much less POV time. It could have flopped, but it didn't. It was done well, and it worked. My one complaint about the many POVs is that there are times you see the same thing from multiple POVs, which honestly got to be a bit much. I sometimes felt like the story was stalled while we saw so many views of the same thing. HOWEVER. I know myself. If we'd only seen from one person's POV, I'd have been unhappy that I didn't get to see how the other characters reacted to things. I know, you just can't win with me, can you?
July 13, 2012
Chapter by chapter, each character received a sturdy introduction, stepping solidly into my imagination. I could see them, and following their story created great pictures in my head.
Many novels of dragons and their riders flood bookshelves, yet this one, I felt, was a little different. The author took the time to build the relationships needed for the action to come.
The intricate details about each character, like Kellinar the thief, or Maleena the young woman shunned by the people of her village, brings the story to life. The bonds of friendship are remarkable and those bonds push them to the limits for each other. Another interesting aspect of relationships in this book is the one the riders develop with their dragons.
Evil lurks at every corner and eventually bursts, bringing forth a vivid confrontation that kept me at the edge of my seat, turning page after page. The story builds to explode in a clash prepared with art and enchanting words – a battle of magic and swords. With vivid and detailed descriptions, I was there, watching the battle.
Unexpected twists to the overall story will catch your breath, making you read on just so you can fill your lungs again. The novel is a great and entertaining read. A must if you are a dragon lover.
Many novels of dragons and their riders flood bookshelves, yet this one, I felt, was a little different. The author took the time to build the relationships needed for the action to come.
The intricate details about each character, like Kellinar the thief, or Maleena the young woman shunned by the people of her village, brings the story to life. The bonds of friendship are remarkable and those bonds push them to the limits for each other. Another interesting aspect of relationships in this book is the one the riders develop with their dragons.
Evil lurks at every corner and eventually bursts, bringing forth a vivid confrontation that kept me at the edge of my seat, turning page after page. The story builds to explode in a clash prepared with art and enchanting words – a battle of magic and swords. With vivid and detailed descriptions, I was there, watching the battle.
Unexpected twists to the overall story will catch your breath, making you read on just so you can fill your lungs again. The novel is a great and entertaining read. A must if you are a dragon lover.
August 22, 2012
There is something about dragon stories that is truly captivating and Trosper has certainly encapsulated this in her novel. This story follows the lives of young men and women as they escape a life of control and fear to find their true talents and true selves. A great deal can be read into the novel, whether you are looking for inspiration to help you find your real identity, or simply an escape from the norms of reality.
Trosper combines a few staples of real life, such as the all important tea and coffee, with the extremes of magic and the afterlife to create a fantasy that is both believable and a pleasant escape. Expect to be entertained with dragon fights, romance and witty comebacks in Trosper’s creation of an idyllic world. You are even given a rare insight into the workings of a dragon’s mind. This could be the ideal introduction to fantasy for any curious readers out there, but it is safe to say that any sceptics need not apply.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Wright on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Trosper combines a few staples of real life, such as the all important tea and coffee, with the extremes of magic and the afterlife to create a fantasy that is both believable and a pleasant escape. Expect to be entertained with dragon fights, romance and witty comebacks in Trosper’s creation of an idyllic world. You are even given a rare insight into the workings of a dragon’s mind. This could be the ideal introduction to fantasy for any curious readers out there, but it is safe to say that any sceptics need not apply.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Wright on behalf of BestChickLit.com
May 29, 2012
How do so many divergent characters unite in one novel? In Fantasy-ical fashion!
The ever different viewpoints of the many main characters provide a unique depth to the situation the cast find themselves in. I don't want to provide any spoilers but needless to say, you find when reading an urge to move to the next character, and then the next, then the next once more in a desire to follow each and where their own unique interpretation of the common path is headed. If characters drive you passion to read, then pick this one up!
The ever different viewpoints of the many main characters provide a unique depth to the situation the cast find themselves in. I don't want to provide any spoilers but needless to say, you find when reading an urge to move to the next character, and then the next, then the next once more in a desire to follow each and where their own unique interpretation of the common path is headed. If characters drive you passion to read, then pick this one up!
July 14, 2012
This is an absolute wonderful read. The characters are well-defined and drive the story like no other. The descriptions take you to a new land and introduce to the characters in an unique and inspiring way. Make sure you have time to read this book once you pick it up. You'll not want to put it down. A. D. weaves a tale of adventure, love, war, and intrigue in a delicious stew.
April 19, 2013
So far, I absolutely love this story and the characters. I can't wait to see how the growth of the dragons and their dragon riders. I like how the authors writes from each main character's point of view. I am trying hard not to read the book too fast so I can enjoy it longer. It is hard. Hurry up with the second book!!
July 29, 2013
The war between the Guardians and the Shadow Riders ended in total devastation. The final battle killed all the dragons and left nothing but fields of ash. A small clutch of dragon eggs was all that remained to provide hope for the future.
Five hundred years later, the ability to use magic is a death sentence and dragons are remembered as a curse. But the un-hatched dragons sing for their riders...and six lives will be changed forever.
The elements of magic are drawn together as the dragons’ call leads them on a journey where they learn everything they've been taught to believe about magic and dragons is wrong.
With the last of the dragons and the world at stake, they will risk everything to heed the call.
But an evil from the past rises again. Shadow Dragons ride the dawn once more...
Firstly, I am not usually into fantasy books (that is Eva's interest!) however, this book pulls you straight in with the emotional descriptions of how painful it is for a rider to loose a dragon in battle.
We get to experience this as the story starts with Emallya fighting for her life as her dragon (Rylin) lays beside her, dead.
The separation Emallya experiences from loosing Rylin is beautifully narrated as you feel every inch of her pain, anguish and lack of desire to go on as this missing piece of her life will never be seen again.
I loved the way the author built up this fantasy world by showing the reader the scenes from each character's POV, however I did feel that this style of writing repeated a few scenario's which slightly dragged for me.
In the beginning the reader is propelled into the story with all the magical action of understanding how they would survive the aftermath of this war. The pace in the middle slowed down slightly as the author introduced us to new, strong characters and allowed us to understand the world a little more and in the end the pace picked back up, allowing a few questions to be answered in the fiery style of the beginning (no spoilers!).
I really enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to anyone who loves their fantasy books fast, in depth and magical from beginning to end!
I give it 4 wings out of 5 as I did enjoy and I think I am transformed into a Fantasy Fan!
Alana
Disclaimer: This book was given to Fiery Fantasy Book Reviews Site as a review copy and was provided to us in exchange for a fair and honest review. There was no monetary exchange for this review. The free book held no determination on our personal review.
For more YA, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Horror, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Supernatural and Science Fiction reviews (and FREE ebooks), go to: Fiery Fantasy Book Reviews Site
Five hundred years later, the ability to use magic is a death sentence and dragons are remembered as a curse. But the un-hatched dragons sing for their riders...and six lives will be changed forever.
The elements of magic are drawn together as the dragons’ call leads them on a journey where they learn everything they've been taught to believe about magic and dragons is wrong.
With the last of the dragons and the world at stake, they will risk everything to heed the call.
But an evil from the past rises again. Shadow Dragons ride the dawn once more...
Firstly, I am not usually into fantasy books (that is Eva's interest!) however, this book pulls you straight in with the emotional descriptions of how painful it is for a rider to loose a dragon in battle.
We get to experience this as the story starts with Emallya fighting for her life as her dragon (Rylin) lays beside her, dead.
The separation Emallya experiences from loosing Rylin is beautifully narrated as you feel every inch of her pain, anguish and lack of desire to go on as this missing piece of her life will never be seen again.
I loved the way the author built up this fantasy world by showing the reader the scenes from each character's POV, however I did feel that this style of writing repeated a few scenario's which slightly dragged for me.
In the beginning the reader is propelled into the story with all the magical action of understanding how they would survive the aftermath of this war. The pace in the middle slowed down slightly as the author introduced us to new, strong characters and allowed us to understand the world a little more and in the end the pace picked back up, allowing a few questions to be answered in the fiery style of the beginning (no spoilers!).
I really enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to anyone who loves their fantasy books fast, in depth and magical from beginning to end!
I give it 4 wings out of 5 as I did enjoy and I think I am transformed into a Fantasy Fan!
Alana
Disclaimer: This book was given to Fiery Fantasy Book Reviews Site as a review copy and was provided to us in exchange for a fair and honest review. There was no monetary exchange for this review. The free book held no determination on our personal review.
For more YA, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Horror, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Supernatural and Science Fiction reviews (and FREE ebooks), go to: Fiery Fantasy Book Reviews Site
December 15, 2015
Please allow me to preface this review with a quick aside that will explain a lot about this book. For years, I had been wanting and meaning to read the dragon riders of Pern series. I would think about it from time to time, yearning for a good dragon story that I could sink my teeth into. This year, I finally got around to it and I am sad to say that I was sorely disappointed by that series. It had nothing of what I truly wanted, which was an interesting fantasy world, a compelling plot, and sympathetic characters who have deep bonds with beautiful dragons, all of whom have unique abilities and personalities.
I picked up “Embers at Galdrilene” a few weeks ago and I’m very glad that I did. THIS was the book I wanted when I sought out the Pern series. These were the characters that I wanted to get to know and follow! These were the dragons!!
In short, this is a sweeping fantasy read that truly endears itself to you over time and will satisfy your dragon fix. Be prepared, though. This one is not your typical gimmicky fantasy read. This book is a slow burn, but it’s a hot one. The story follows six main characters, all from different walks of life, and all trying to survive in a world that persecutes those who are magically inclined. There is a long history in this world, and I was happy to see that the author took the time to flesh it out, unlike so many others who neglect to develop their universes to a satisfying potential.
In this world, there are people born with magical powers known as mages. There are many different types of mages and their corresponding dragons, and each of these powers is explored to a satisfying degree in the story. Long ago, they were sought out so that they could kindle a bond with unhatched dragons. When they came together, the dragons would hatch and form a powerful bond with the riders. However, after a war that occurred centuries ago, mages are now seen as a threat, and they are executed upon discovery.
Enter our heroes: the last surviving set of mages who are bound to the final six dragon eggs. Each of these characters has their own intricate backstory. A favorite of mine was Kirynn, the fire mage. She was spunky and strong-willed, and I was riveted to her plotline!
I highly recommend this read to any fantasy fan. It is well worth it!!
I picked up “Embers at Galdrilene” a few weeks ago and I’m very glad that I did. THIS was the book I wanted when I sought out the Pern series. These were the characters that I wanted to get to know and follow! These were the dragons!!
In short, this is a sweeping fantasy read that truly endears itself to you over time and will satisfy your dragon fix. Be prepared, though. This one is not your typical gimmicky fantasy read. This book is a slow burn, but it’s a hot one. The story follows six main characters, all from different walks of life, and all trying to survive in a world that persecutes those who are magically inclined. There is a long history in this world, and I was happy to see that the author took the time to flesh it out, unlike so many others who neglect to develop their universes to a satisfying potential.
In this world, there are people born with magical powers known as mages. There are many different types of mages and their corresponding dragons, and each of these powers is explored to a satisfying degree in the story. Long ago, they were sought out so that they could kindle a bond with unhatched dragons. When they came together, the dragons would hatch and form a powerful bond with the riders. However, after a war that occurred centuries ago, mages are now seen as a threat, and they are executed upon discovery.
Enter our heroes: the last surviving set of mages who are bound to the final six dragon eggs. Each of these characters has their own intricate backstory. A favorite of mine was Kirynn, the fire mage. She was spunky and strong-willed, and I was riveted to her plotline!
I highly recommend this read to any fantasy fan. It is well worth it!!
August 14, 2013
I don't even know where to begin with the review. I've been a huge fan of books about dragons since I was little, so I was really excited to read this book. And I was not disappointed.
The story has everything a good dragon book is supposed to have (good and evil dragons with their riders, some magic ...) and more. I really loved the idea of Sliding which adds a nice sci-fi touch to the story.
Probably my favourite thing about the story is the number of main characters. To be honest, reading about one main character who turns out to be the greatest hero/magician/whatever the world has ever seen is getting a bit boring (not that I didn't love Eragon; I did, but Eragon was never my favourite character). Here, the story is told from 11 POVs (I might have forgotten count someone), and while not all of them would qualify as main characters, more than half of them definitely do. So the hardest thing really was choosing who is my favourite.
I also liked seeing things from villain's POV (however briefly) as opposed to seeing the whole story from the heroes' perspective.
The only downside to having so many MCs is that there is simply not enough pages to really get to know them all. And while we were told about their feelings I didn't always feel them (the Hatching and bonds with their dragons are excluded).
One more thing, the writing is great. From the very first sentence it was flowing and captivating and I really enjoyed that.
All in all, the book is fantastic! I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story has everything a good dragon book is supposed to have (good and evil dragons with their riders, some magic ...) and more. I really loved the idea of Sliding which adds a nice sci-fi touch to the story.
Probably my favourite thing about the story is the number of main characters. To be honest, reading about one main character who turns out to be the greatest hero/magician/whatever the world has ever seen is getting a bit boring (not that I didn't love Eragon; I did, but Eragon was never my favourite character). Here, the story is told from 11 POVs (I might have forgotten count someone), and while not all of them would qualify as main characters, more than half of them definitely do. So the hardest thing really was choosing who is my favourite.
I also liked seeing things from villain's POV (however briefly) as opposed to seeing the whole story from the heroes' perspective.
The only downside to having so many MCs is that there is simply not enough pages to really get to know them all. And while we were told about their feelings I didn't always feel them (the Hatching and bonds with their dragons are excluded).
One more thing, the writing is great. From the very first sentence it was flowing and captivating and I really enjoyed that.
All in all, the book is fantastic! I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2012
Fantasy isn't my normal reading, but from the first pages, A.D. Trosper's story of dragons and magic drew me in. In this world, people who have magic skills have been raised to believe they'll go insane if they use those skills. Magic users are required either to voluntarily surrender to the authorities or others will turn them in. Once in custody, magic users are executed. It isn't a difficult leap to see frightening parallels to situations in our own world in the not-so-distant past and even in parts of the world today.
Embers at Galdrilene follows several magic users who defy the authorities to learn the truth, link with the dragons who have called them, and eventually fight the evil that has spread in the world since magic was suppressed.
I particularly enjoyed the way the author created vivid and unusual scenes, including: living people traversing the world of the dead; dragons and humans bonding and communicating to help each other; men and women becoming bondmates; and evil people using vile shadow magic.
The story is told from multiple points of view, but Trosper handled this transition with skill and I was never confused about whose head I was in. As the story progresses, there is a time when all the main characters are seeing a new place for the first time. These chapters slow the pace and offer duplicative material but not so much that I grew bored. If there is a fault in this novel, it lies in missing words. Nothing that hinders the meaning but sufficient occurrences to draw my attention away from the story.
If you like fantasy, this is one to check out.
Embers at Galdrilene follows several magic users who defy the authorities to learn the truth, link with the dragons who have called them, and eventually fight the evil that has spread in the world since magic was suppressed.
I particularly enjoyed the way the author created vivid and unusual scenes, including: living people traversing the world of the dead; dragons and humans bonding and communicating to help each other; men and women becoming bondmates; and evil people using vile shadow magic.
The story is told from multiple points of view, but Trosper handled this transition with skill and I was never confused about whose head I was in. As the story progresses, there is a time when all the main characters are seeing a new place for the first time. These chapters slow the pace and offer duplicative material but not so much that I grew bored. If there is a fault in this novel, it lies in missing words. Nothing that hinders the meaning but sufficient occurrences to draw my attention away from the story.
If you like fantasy, this is one to check out.
January 11, 2013
A.D. Trosper has managed to give life to a whole new world, filled with fantastically diverse and realistic characters. By the time I had read through the first six chapters or so, I felt as though I were amongst friends. The entire book plays out like a movie inside of the mind, making the reading effortless. There are no dull parts at all. 'Embers at Galdrilene' is truly one of the most fantastic fantasy books I have read in a long time. Fantasy is one of those genres that I tend to be extremely picky with, and yet I could find not a single flaw. There was nothing I thought that could use a little work or be built upon. The book is perfect exactly as it is. I was so drawn into the plot, so connected with the characters, that I lost many nights of sleep...and gladly to! It would have been impossible for me to stop reading. The story ends on a subtle cliffhanger that leaves you wanting to know what happens, yet without the annoyingly dramatic effect some authors are fond of using.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who even remotely enjoys fantasy, magic, or dragons; or anyone who enjoys a truly thrilling and inspiring read. You will not regret taking a chance on this book, you can be guaranteed of that!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who even remotely enjoys fantasy, magic, or dragons; or anyone who enjoys a truly thrilling and inspiring read. You will not regret taking a chance on this book, you can be guaranteed of that!
July 13, 2013
I figure I might as well highly recommend this book because I came to read it after it was highly recommended to me. I'm always reading more than one book and often take a long time to finish, but once I started this one, I barely put it down. Where dragons and dragon riders have failed to exist for 500 years, Trosper creates a world where magic is feared and lies of the past run rampant. Yet, six people feel the call of magic and meet up with the one person who has protected six dragon eggs for centuries. Their magical skills and fighting skills are perfected, and their bonds to each other and their dragons lead them on a thrilling adventure. The descriptions, creativity, and characterization are amazing, but the story is better. A.D. Trosper writes a story that is magical, beautiful, and suspenseful, and it should be read by any person who loves a good book. Take my word and my recommendation, and soon you'll be telling others to read this book just as I am doing.
February 23, 2013
Fantasy isn't my genre, but I have to say A.D. Trosper hooked me with this one. Couldn't put it down, and couldn't believe I was staying up nights reading about dragons and their very special relationships with their human riders. It's a magical story. Trosper sweeps you right into it from the beginning with interesting characters and wonderful descriptions of a fairytale land with an ancient city called Galdrilene where the inhabitants practice magic. I highly recommend Embers at Galdrilene to any reader looking for a truly enjoyable fantasy novel.
June 28, 2012
A real page turner. This new author puts a new twist on the dragon fantasy story. The world and the characters are so well developed yo feel like they are friends. Can't wait for the next installment in this great story. A author to watch for sure.
January 13, 2021
4.5 stars 🤍 a wonderful story that feels new and familiar at the same time. I loved the characters and wanted to just sit back and watch each of their lives unfold in parallel; apart but together. They were well developed and I felt like I had a little time to get to know each of them as an individual... The action scenes were great and my heart was in my throat most of the time... Can't wait to see what happens next!
July 27, 2013
It seems to me that anytime one writes about dragon riders, comparisons will be made to the Dragonriders of Pern and other dragon series by Anne McCaffrey, a legendary science fiction/fantasy writer. So let's get that out of the way first.
In Embers, there are some likenesses to Mrs. McCaffrey's books and I think those should be noted up front. One is that people ride dragons. I know, I know. Another is that dragons bond to one person for a lifetime with disastrous results should either the human or the dragon die. The last is that the dragons in the McCaffrey books can go "between" and the dragons in Embers "slide" to travel in place or time.
Otherwise, Embers is a brand new tale of epic proportion and I can't wait for the next one, even though I only finished the first one today.
Magic is outlawed; dragons are extinct. At least that's what most of the known world believes. But one woman's journey to find those who have just found their magic gives the story its flavor as each is found in diverse locations and with varying types of magic. Their trek together to a new land, a place where magic thrives, brings them to the hatchlings and to a new life. There, they also battle the Shadow Dragons ~ all things evil ~ and a truly vile female character.
Some reviewers have discussed the pros and cons of character development as shown through various points of view. For me, switching the point of view of the storyteller from one dragon rider to another detracted from the overall story and perhaps led to a fragmented character development. But that's just my personal preference for all books, not just this one. I hope the next book is more straightforward because I really enjoyed Embers and believe that the author will flesh out those characters in following books.
After all, the first book of a series is generally an introduction and what an introduction Ember was !
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes magic and dragons ~ who doesn't ?
Comment Comment
In Embers, there are some likenesses to Mrs. McCaffrey's books and I think those should be noted up front. One is that people ride dragons. I know, I know. Another is that dragons bond to one person for a lifetime with disastrous results should either the human or the dragon die. The last is that the dragons in the McCaffrey books can go "between" and the dragons in Embers "slide" to travel in place or time.
Otherwise, Embers is a brand new tale of epic proportion and I can't wait for the next one, even though I only finished the first one today.
Magic is outlawed; dragons are extinct. At least that's what most of the known world believes. But one woman's journey to find those who have just found their magic gives the story its flavor as each is found in diverse locations and with varying types of magic. Their trek together to a new land, a place where magic thrives, brings them to the hatchlings and to a new life. There, they also battle the Shadow Dragons ~ all things evil ~ and a truly vile female character.
Some reviewers have discussed the pros and cons of character development as shown through various points of view. For me, switching the point of view of the storyteller from one dragon rider to another detracted from the overall story and perhaps led to a fragmented character development. But that's just my personal preference for all books, not just this one. I hope the next book is more straightforward because I really enjoyed Embers and believe that the author will flesh out those characters in following books.
After all, the first book of a series is generally an introduction and what an introduction Ember was !
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes magic and dragons ~ who doesn't ?
Comment Comment
June 27, 2013
Embers of Galdrilene is a rich fantasy story with beautiful world building and a large cast of endearing characters. This is the third dragon story I have read and I really enjoy reading about the bond that forms between a dragon rider and his/her dragon. The detailed description of the silver dragon emerging from the lake (the first dragon that we see in the story) is simply gorgeous. I would recommend this book to fans of epic fantasy adventures. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
September 21, 2014
Calling all dragon fans!
Fact: dragons are cool.
Fact: this book is a great fantasy read!
I'm not usually a huge fan of fantasy but I love dragons so it was easy for me to get into this book. Only a couple of times in the middle did it feel long, but the action was quick to return.
And the characters! Easy to fall in love with them as they all get the proper introduction they deserve. Ms. Trosper does a wonderful job of balancing the journey to the destination with the arrival and explains her excellent world clearly.
So if you love dragons, I encourage you to check out this series!
Fact: dragons are cool.
Fact: this book is a great fantasy read!
I'm not usually a huge fan of fantasy but I love dragons so it was easy for me to get into this book. Only a couple of times in the middle did it feel long, but the action was quick to return.
And the characters! Easy to fall in love with them as they all get the proper introduction they deserve. Ms. Trosper does a wonderful job of balancing the journey to the destination with the arrival and explains her excellent world clearly.
So if you love dragons, I encourage you to check out this series!
August 5, 2016
Disappointed (again *sigh*).
Here's a review that expresses my thoughts exactly :
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Here's a review that expresses my thoughts exactly :
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 12, 2016
Let me start by saying I adore fantasy and most of all fantasy involving dragons.
LOVE LOVE LOVE it to the point I'm currently writing my own fantasy story involving dragons (because why not).
So I've read a lot from this genre both in published books and, yes, fanfiction.
I'm afraid that for me this just felt a bit more like fanfiction. (Which there is nothing wrong with, in its context, I'm not afraid to say I write fanfiction myself, it's just not what I look for when I purchase published books.)
Now Trosper manages to create a very interesting world, one cannot really fault his world building or the ambitious scope of his work, but its just the character building itself, something I find vital in a novel, which seemed....wooden.
Maybe it was the constant jumping between points of view. Maybe it was the "all the women are stunning, let me describe how stunning they are each in their stereotypical way. Here we have the warrior hottie who doesn't want commitment. Here we have the sweet to the point of diabetes beauty. Here we have the girl next door, serious, studious healer hottie. Here we have the tragic, tortured, rescued from the evil baddies hottie. Have I mentioned they're super gorgeous?" feel to it.
I get it, you set up a hollywood cast of outrageously gorgeous women. Congrats.
(Not that I'm against attractive women in fiction, I just don't appreciate it being thrown down my throat, especially with the silver lady.)
The insta love of the bondmates was also a little cliche, but if this is YA I'm willing to accept it.
One thing I really had trouble with was the way the three way bonding was just this smooth transition. Yeah, the lads had some banter about it, but there was no exploration of what exactly that meant not just for the poor guy who now has feelings for two women to navigate and how on earth he could possibly tread that line, but from the women themselves. I dunno, I found that a fascinating concept that I'd have wanted to explore, and it just wasn't. The sisterly bond as opposed to female rivalry was refreshing, but in not explaining and exploring that and its inherent complications in such a web of emotions, it cheapened it.
Worst of all, in my opinion, the insta-acceptance of the whole "my man just bonded with another woman, lets sit down for a nice cup of tea and feel all warm and fuzzy about this out of the blue development" just made me feel the female characters were Mary Sues on steroids. No complexity, just endless sweetness and acceptance.
Something I found really interesting though, moving away from the topic of characterisation and back to world building and how well it was done, was the idea of silver magic. The fact silvers couldn't be touched and needed a bondmate to protect them may seem anti-feminist, given the only silvers shown were female (although it was never stated - I don't think - that silvers couldn't be male) but actually it was a pretty interesting way to give a character OP powers with an inherent weakness so they wouldn't come across as too ridiculous compared to the rest.
Other than that, the 'baddies' had some interesting moments with some fleshed out back stories, which was good. Although I would have loved for them to be a little less cliche. But I loved the Taylor story and her journey from their side to the side of the good guys, I found that to be one of the best parts of the book and she was the one character I found I actually could emotionally invest in (other than the dragons, because they're frickin dragons).
I did sometimes get a bit confused with who was who in this book though. I couldn't read it in one sitting as I was pretty busy with two jobs when I was reading this book (which may account for me not being able to be fully immersed in it) and so when I'd pick it up to read over breakfast or before bed it took me a while to track who was who. I don't know whether I found the characters flat because their development was broken up by reading it in small chunks (and it is a massive character dump at the beginning when you try and separate loads of characters and their back stories in your head to follow the plot and not grow confused) or whether it was because, as I felt, they just weren't distinct or well fleshed out past their mass of introductory back stories at the beginning, but I didn't warm to any of them besides Taylor.
Their relationships seemed contrived and the romance was shallow, but the plot was fast paced (once you got to the meat of it, be warned its a slow starting book) and the world is a passable fantasy world with enough unique qualities to keep you reading.
Overall it gets three stars for being readable but not quite captivating me in the way I look for in books. Its fantasy, so I was never going to pass up a chance to delve into its world of magic and dragons, but I cannot rate it higher than three stars based on the first book in the series.
I'm currently half way through the second, but have sidelined it in favour of more enticing books at this moment. I intend to pick it up again once more, it was good enough for me to want to finish the story, but it is not my top priority. I have saved it for a lull in my otherwise captivating line of books I am currently wading through.
LOVE LOVE LOVE it to the point I'm currently writing my own fantasy story involving dragons (because why not).
So I've read a lot from this genre both in published books and, yes, fanfiction.
I'm afraid that for me this just felt a bit more like fanfiction. (Which there is nothing wrong with, in its context, I'm not afraid to say I write fanfiction myself, it's just not what I look for when I purchase published books.)
Now Trosper manages to create a very interesting world, one cannot really fault his world building or the ambitious scope of his work, but its just the character building itself, something I find vital in a novel, which seemed....wooden.
Maybe it was the constant jumping between points of view. Maybe it was the "all the women are stunning, let me describe how stunning they are each in their stereotypical way. Here we have the warrior hottie who doesn't want commitment. Here we have the sweet to the point of diabetes beauty. Here we have the girl next door, serious, studious healer hottie. Here we have the tragic, tortured, rescued from the evil baddies hottie. Have I mentioned they're super gorgeous?" feel to it.
I get it, you set up a hollywood cast of outrageously gorgeous women. Congrats.
(Not that I'm against attractive women in fiction, I just don't appreciate it being thrown down my throat, especially with the silver lady.)
The insta love of the bondmates was also a little cliche, but if this is YA I'm willing to accept it.
One thing I really had trouble with was the way the three way bonding was just this smooth transition. Yeah, the lads had some banter about it, but there was no exploration of what exactly that meant not just for the poor guy who now has feelings for two women to navigate and how on earth he could possibly tread that line, but from the women themselves. I dunno, I found that a fascinating concept that I'd have wanted to explore, and it just wasn't. The sisterly bond as opposed to female rivalry was refreshing, but in not explaining and exploring that and its inherent complications in such a web of emotions, it cheapened it.
Worst of all, in my opinion, the insta-acceptance of the whole "my man just bonded with another woman, lets sit down for a nice cup of tea and feel all warm and fuzzy about this out of the blue development" just made me feel the female characters were Mary Sues on steroids. No complexity, just endless sweetness and acceptance.
Something I found really interesting though, moving away from the topic of characterisation and back to world building and how well it was done, was the idea of silver magic. The fact silvers couldn't be touched and needed a bondmate to protect them may seem anti-feminist, given the only silvers shown were female (although it was never stated - I don't think - that silvers couldn't be male) but actually it was a pretty interesting way to give a character OP powers with an inherent weakness so they wouldn't come across as too ridiculous compared to the rest.
Other than that, the 'baddies' had some interesting moments with some fleshed out back stories, which was good. Although I would have loved for them to be a little less cliche. But I loved the Taylor story and her journey from their side to the side of the good guys, I found that to be one of the best parts of the book and she was the one character I found I actually could emotionally invest in (other than the dragons, because they're frickin dragons).
I did sometimes get a bit confused with who was who in this book though. I couldn't read it in one sitting as I was pretty busy with two jobs when I was reading this book (which may account for me not being able to be fully immersed in it) and so when I'd pick it up to read over breakfast or before bed it took me a while to track who was who. I don't know whether I found the characters flat because their development was broken up by reading it in small chunks (and it is a massive character dump at the beginning when you try and separate loads of characters and their back stories in your head to follow the plot and not grow confused) or whether it was because, as I felt, they just weren't distinct or well fleshed out past their mass of introductory back stories at the beginning, but I didn't warm to any of them besides Taylor.
Their relationships seemed contrived and the romance was shallow, but the plot was fast paced (once you got to the meat of it, be warned its a slow starting book) and the world is a passable fantasy world with enough unique qualities to keep you reading.
Overall it gets three stars for being readable but not quite captivating me in the way I look for in books. Its fantasy, so I was never going to pass up a chance to delve into its world of magic and dragons, but I cannot rate it higher than three stars based on the first book in the series.
I'm currently half way through the second, but have sidelined it in favour of more enticing books at this moment. I intend to pick it up again once more, it was good enough for me to want to finish the story, but it is not my top priority. I have saved it for a lull in my otherwise captivating line of books I am currently wading through.
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