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Dragon Riders of Elantia #2
Flight of the Dragon
When Zara and Lessie first laid eyes on each other, neither dragon nor rider had any idea of the trials they would have to face together. Now, after several kidnapping and murder attempts, the pair have been transported to a secret location, where they must finish their training under the enigmatic and frustrating Lord Tavarian.
But with war brewing on the horizon, and Salcombe on the hunt for Zara, no place is truly safe. Soon, the two find themselves being attacked on all fronts, forced to lay down their lives for a cause they don’t believe in and turn their backs on everything they believe in.
Fortunately for Zara, she and Lessie never been one to follow the rules. For that rebel streak may prove to be the crucial difference between triumphant victory, or certain death…
But with war brewing on the horizon, and Salcombe on the hunt for Zara, no place is truly safe. Soon, the two find themselves being attacked on all fronts, forced to lay down their lives for a cause they don’t believe in and turn their backs on everything they believe in.
Fortunately for Zara, she and Lessie never been one to follow the rules. For that rebel streak may prove to be the crucial difference between triumphant victory, or certain death…
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2018
1138 people are currently reading
953 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Drake
15 books81 followersJESSICA DRAKE is the epic fantasy pen name for New York Times bestseller Jasmine Walt. She's always wanted to write epic and sword and sorcery fantasy, and is really hoping that readers will love the new dragon rider series she's put out. When she’s not binge-watching Lord of the Rings or planning her dream vacation, she can be found chained to her computer, feverishly working on her next project. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to drop her a line at jessica@authorjessicadrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
June 29, 2018
Good story BUT
I've read books one and two but really it's just one book being delivered in installments., which I find irritating. By the time the next installment comes out I probably won't remember the storyline or the authors name. The hype compared this story to Anne McCaffeys Pern and her dragon stories. She gave us complete stories. You have not. Very disappointing
I've read books one and two but really it's just one book being delivered in installments., which I find irritating. By the time the next installment comes out I probably won't remember the storyline or the authors name. The hype compared this story to Anne McCaffeys Pern and her dragon stories. She gave us complete stories. You have not. Very disappointing
March 30, 2024
Our protagonist is a Faux Action girl
I really wanted to like this series but the pattern it’s problems are just too prevalent to ignore.
My issues with the second book are the same as my issues with the first book, but I kept going because I was hoping that what I was seeing was character development and not terrible writing, alas I see now that it was the former instead of the latter
Zara is supposed to be a quick witted thief and treasure Hunter who is quickly developing into a warrior in her own right. Despite the books wanting you to believe this she never EARNS her characterization. What I mean by that is that she is frankly bad at everything the book wants you to believe she is good at.
She is supposed to be this street smart burgler who made her living from being an excellent sneak thief. Yet not once does she tries to break into someplace she isn’t supposed to be without immediately getting caught. And for someone who is street smart, she is constantly falling for really obvious traps, tricks and manipulations, which SO OFTEN leads to her getting captured. The book so desperately wants you to believe she is clever and I simply can’t understand how I’m supposed to believe that. Almost every character, particularly the male characters, are competent and intelligent people, and almost all of them seem to have their hands full bailing Zara out of her own stupidity.
I cannot stress enough often Zara badly messes up, only for someone else more competent than her to step in to rescue her and clean up her mess.
Zara almost never gets herself out of the trouble she gets herself into, in fact, in the first book, she doesn’t solve any of her problems at all, instead they are all solved for her, by someone else, and with almost no input from her.
Zara never manages to rescue herself or bail herself out of the situations she find herself in despite all the pointless scheming in her head about how she is going to escape, none of which ever pan out, because she always badly misreads the situation.
Which leads me to my other problem. Zara feels like she shouldn’t be the main character of this story. She plays no major role any of the events that unfold in the books, in fact she is always just along for the ride, finding herself stumbling into doing somebody else’s bidding and executing somebody else’s plan. Sure she has her treasure sense, but that innate talent only reduces her into a walking plot device which allows the more competent and intelligent people around her, namely her boyfriends, to find the items they need to do the actual heavy lifting of resolving the world’s problems.
Zara has no agency in her own story. I sincerely think the story should be from Tavarian’s perspective because he is actually the who has a grasp on the situation, and more importantly, seems to be making a difference in the story. Frankly I’d rather read a story about the pacifist politician who sacrificed his relationship with his best friend in order to protect him from a catastrophic war, than the story about a two bit sneak thief who always gets caught, and fails to steal anything.
I really wanted to like this series but the pattern it’s problems are just too prevalent to ignore.
My issues with the second book are the same as my issues with the first book, but I kept going because I was hoping that what I was seeing was character development and not terrible writing, alas I see now that it was the former instead of the latter
Zara is supposed to be a quick witted thief and treasure Hunter who is quickly developing into a warrior in her own right. Despite the books wanting you to believe this she never EARNS her characterization. What I mean by that is that she is frankly bad at everything the book wants you to believe she is good at.
She is supposed to be this street smart burgler who made her living from being an excellent sneak thief. Yet not once does she tries to break into someplace she isn’t supposed to be without immediately getting caught. And for someone who is street smart, she is constantly falling for really obvious traps, tricks and manipulations, which SO OFTEN leads to her getting captured. The book so desperately wants you to believe she is clever and I simply can’t understand how I’m supposed to believe that. Almost every character, particularly the male characters, are competent and intelligent people, and almost all of them seem to have their hands full bailing Zara out of her own stupidity.
I cannot stress enough often Zara badly messes up, only for someone else more competent than her to step in to rescue her and clean up her mess.
Zara almost never gets herself out of the trouble she gets herself into, in fact, in the first book, she doesn’t solve any of her problems at all, instead they are all solved for her, by someone else, and with almost no input from her.
Zara never manages to rescue herself or bail herself out of the situations she find herself in despite all the pointless scheming in her head about how she is going to escape, none of which ever pan out, because she always badly misreads the situation.
Which leads me to my other problem. Zara feels like she shouldn’t be the main character of this story. She plays no major role any of the events that unfold in the books, in fact she is always just along for the ride, finding herself stumbling into doing somebody else’s bidding and executing somebody else’s plan. Sure she has her treasure sense, but that innate talent only reduces her into a walking plot device which allows the more competent and intelligent people around her, namely her boyfriends, to find the items they need to do the actual heavy lifting of resolving the world’s problems.
Zara has no agency in her own story. I sincerely think the story should be from Tavarian’s perspective because he is actually the who has a grasp on the situation, and more importantly, seems to be making a difference in the story. Frankly I’d rather read a story about the pacifist politician who sacrificed his relationship with his best friend in order to protect him from a catastrophic war, than the story about a two bit sneak thief who always gets caught, and fails to steal anything.
July 12, 2018
Very good continuation of series
Let me just start off saying Salcombe is getting on my last nerve. Zara and Lessie continue to do what they feel is the right thing but they can never catch a break when they do. The world building and written descriptions are very good. A couple of of her friends shock me with their behavior. I can't wait for book 3.
Let me just start off saying Salcombe is getting on my last nerve. Zara and Lessie continue to do what they feel is the right thing but they can never catch a break when they do. The world building and written descriptions are very good. A couple of of her friends shock me with their behavior. I can't wait for book 3.
August 11, 2019
Salcombe's a jackass
I've always questioned the wisdom of those seeking power from evil gods. Especially one whose intentions to raze a world to the bedrock are clearly known.
Zara continuing her training, and the will she/won't she relationship with her patron have lead me to ponder certain possibilities for future books.
Keep reading, everybody.
I've always questioned the wisdom of those seeking power from evil gods. Especially one whose intentions to raze a world to the bedrock are clearly known.
Zara continuing her training, and the will she/won't she relationship with her patron have lead me to ponder certain possibilities for future books.
Keep reading, everybody.
April 26, 2024
Ughhhh!! I need the 3rd book like yesterday! I couldn’t put this book down. I love Zara and Lessie ❤️
November 12, 2024
Soft DNF for me. Really enjoyed the first one. I might come back to this at a later date, but it just didn’t hold my interest very well.
June 26, 2018
Zara is back, and she is enjoying her time training with Tavarian. However, the threat of war soon intrudes, and her old enemies make themselves known again, throwing her life into disarray. I just love Zara and Lessie; this series’ take on dragons and their riders is great. I really enjoy all the characters in this story except I am still on the fence about Zara’s friend/love interest Jallis; I can’t decide if I really like him. I think I am more for her other love interest. I also love the character Carina and her taking care of the shop. She seems like she could be a main character all by herself. All in all, this was a well-written, fun, urban fantasy adventure for those who like that genre. Highly recommend! I was provided a complimentary copy of the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
June 28, 2018
Excellent second book to the series! Quick and easy read…4 ½ stars
What an excellent second book to this series! I read it in less than two days- it was a quick and easy read. Would recommend for those who are looking for a dragon fantasy, new fantasy series, love magic/adventure, or like a strong female lead. There are many adventures in this book- pretty much a constant stream, which makes it difficult to put the book down.
Minimal spoilers below…
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Zara is continuing her training with Lessie, her dragon, at Tavarian’s secret estate. War is on the brink and begins as the book progresses. Forced to begin active duty in Elantia’s military, Zara struggles on many levels. Salcombe is up to his nefarious ways throughout the book. Other things to expect: magic, airships, relationships gains and strains, dragon riding, humans bonding with their dragons, use of Zara’s ability, letter writing (technology isn’t like it is today), weapons, dragon god occultists, and surprises regarding Tavarian.
You could probably read this book without reading the first, but I wouldn’t recommend it as you will miss some key details about how things came to be. This book’s ending is meant to continue into the third book so if you are not a fan of waiting for a series/expecting closure, this isn’t for you.
The only thing I didn’t care for is Jallis and Zara’s romantic relationship. I might be in the minority on this, but it just doesn’t feel right. It doesn’t ruin the book by any means (romantic scenes are minimal). I was hoping as the series continued the awkwardness would go, but it didn’t.
Overall, I recommend this series, especially if you enjoy fantasy books with dragons.
Parental/trigger warnings: Some swearing (S-word a couple of times), stealing, death, war talk and actions, cannons (that injure dragons), kidnapping, drugs that are used to drug other people, brief talk of semi-nude male body and sleeping with guys (one sentence).
I received an ARC in exchange for my review, however I also purchased the book.
What an excellent second book to this series! I read it in less than two days- it was a quick and easy read. Would recommend for those who are looking for a dragon fantasy, new fantasy series, love magic/adventure, or like a strong female lead. There are many adventures in this book- pretty much a constant stream, which makes it difficult to put the book down.
Minimal spoilers below…
……………………….
…………………..
………………
…………..
………..
……..
…..
…
Zara is continuing her training with Lessie, her dragon, at Tavarian’s secret estate. War is on the brink and begins as the book progresses. Forced to begin active duty in Elantia’s military, Zara struggles on many levels. Salcombe is up to his nefarious ways throughout the book. Other things to expect: magic, airships, relationships gains and strains, dragon riding, humans bonding with their dragons, use of Zara’s ability, letter writing (technology isn’t like it is today), weapons, dragon god occultists, and surprises regarding Tavarian.
You could probably read this book without reading the first, but I wouldn’t recommend it as you will miss some key details about how things came to be. This book’s ending is meant to continue into the third book so if you are not a fan of waiting for a series/expecting closure, this isn’t for you.
The only thing I didn’t care for is Jallis and Zara’s romantic relationship. I might be in the minority on this, but it just doesn’t feel right. It doesn’t ruin the book by any means (romantic scenes are minimal). I was hoping as the series continued the awkwardness would go, but it didn’t.
Overall, I recommend this series, especially if you enjoy fantasy books with dragons.
Parental/trigger warnings: Some swearing (S-word a couple of times), stealing, death, war talk and actions, cannons (that injure dragons), kidnapping, drugs that are used to drug other people, brief talk of semi-nude male body and sleeping with guys (one sentence).
I received an ARC in exchange for my review, however I also purchased the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2018
Zara is a Dragon Rider and Lessie is her Dragon and when they met the certainly had no idea the sorts of trials and dangers they would have to face together. There have been several murder and kidnapping attempts so her enigmatic family head (Lord Tavarian) has transported them to a secret location to complete their training off the grid on a 1-2-1 basis. However war is on the horizon and Salcombe is determined to find Zara - before they know it they are being attacked on all fronts and are forced to fight for a cause they are obliged to take part in even if they don't really believe in it. Can they follow the rules even if they know they are not always right or will the rebel streak that is so much part of Zara's character contribute to victory or will it be death?
Wow - loving the way the story has continued for Zara and Lessie. The challenge between duty and going against it to do the right thing were well described in the story and I could definitely feel the frustration and dilemma in the choices that had to me made. There were several moments where crucial moments were reached and decisions had to be made - I could understand all of the information and viewpoints including why she decided the way she did. Looking forward to the next book now so I find out what happens next!
Wow - loving the way the story has continued for Zara and Lessie. The challenge between duty and going against it to do the right thing were well described in the story and I could definitely feel the frustration and dilemma in the choices that had to me made. There were several moments where crucial moments were reached and decisions had to be made - I could understand all of the information and viewpoints including why she decided the way she did. Looking forward to the next book now so I find out what happens next!
June 30, 2018
Oh wow, what another amazing Dragon book and second book in this series. My favourite character in this book is without a doubt Lessie, the main Dragon character. I just love her interactions with Zara and her sass. Zara has been suddenly thrown into the life of a Dragon rider and so that relationship between the two is important and the author has created a great pairing.
The romance in this book is minimal as it's more on the action. I'm enjoying that, I love when there's plenty of story and action in a book. Regarding the romance though I do need to say I don't like Jallis. I'm holding out hope for Lord Tavarian as he's dark and brooding and there's definitely a connection between him and Zara, i just dont feel that with Jallis and I also don't particularly like Jallis' character.
I agree with Zara's views on the war, however understand why it's so important for her and Lessie to be involved. The end of the book doesn't leave us on a cliffhanger but it does leave Zara in a dangerous position and I'm unsure just what Salcombe will do next, he's a dangerous character.
Flight of the Dragon was an exciting five star read for me and I'm looking forward to the next instalment and hopefully many more to come in the series.
The romance in this book is minimal as it's more on the action. I'm enjoying that, I love when there's plenty of story and action in a book. Regarding the romance though I do need to say I don't like Jallis. I'm holding out hope for Lord Tavarian as he's dark and brooding and there's definitely a connection between him and Zara, i just dont feel that with Jallis and I also don't particularly like Jallis' character.
I agree with Zara's views on the war, however understand why it's so important for her and Lessie to be involved. The end of the book doesn't leave us on a cliffhanger but it does leave Zara in a dangerous position and I'm unsure just what Salcombe will do next, he's a dangerous character.
Flight of the Dragon was an exciting five star read for me and I'm looking forward to the next instalment and hopefully many more to come in the series.
October 14, 2018
Note: I received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
If you didn’t know, this is the 2nd book in the series. Book 1 is called ‘Call of the Dragon’, that being said you won’t fully be able to enjoy this book unless you read the previous one.
Now going in, you know who to expect and have a sense of where the story will go based off of he first book...so of course that means this book already has a bar of expectation.
I won’t spoil anything from either book cause my reviews just don’t do that. What I can say is the characters you enjoyed in the first one show up in the second and the story continues on a journey you’ll find yourself trying to read fast enough to know what happens next.
I like the series and I like that it’s focus is a heroine but not your a-typical one. I like her sass and the strong sense of self she has which I feel has grown since the first book. You’ll find that her relationships get more complicated as does her role in life.
Overall, it’s a good book and if you enjoyed the first I recommend picking up this one. Keep reading the series as it continues to progress in a story I really enjoy. I kept reading and hardly stopped until the end, which for me is a sign of a book that holds my interests. If you like dragon books, pick up book 1 and 2 - it’s a great series.
If you didn’t know, this is the 2nd book in the series. Book 1 is called ‘Call of the Dragon’, that being said you won’t fully be able to enjoy this book unless you read the previous one.
Now going in, you know who to expect and have a sense of where the story will go based off of he first book...so of course that means this book already has a bar of expectation.
I won’t spoil anything from either book cause my reviews just don’t do that. What I can say is the characters you enjoyed in the first one show up in the second and the story continues on a journey you’ll find yourself trying to read fast enough to know what happens next.
I like the series and I like that it’s focus is a heroine but not your a-typical one. I like her sass and the strong sense of self she has which I feel has grown since the first book. You’ll find that her relationships get more complicated as does her role in life.
Overall, it’s a good book and if you enjoyed the first I recommend picking up this one. Keep reading the series as it continues to progress in a story I really enjoy. I kept reading and hardly stopped until the end, which for me is a sign of a book that holds my interests. If you like dragon books, pick up book 1 and 2 - it’s a great series.
June 28, 2018
*voluntarily and honestly reviewed the ARC I received from the author*
It's a 4.5 for me. Lessie is probably my favorite thing about this series because of how adorable she is. She can be so pristine sometimes but it's part of her charm, and her bond with Zara is seriously a warm blanket on my heart every time they interact (which is always, so-). Things are definitely picking up, as it's no longer just Zara's life that she has to worry about. There's possibility of war coming, which is a bit of a problem considering out MC doesn't believe in it. But now the threat of an ancient evil is coming back up again, which means Zara has much more to lose than her country if she doesn't do something.
It was a nice flow with following Zara as she went through the motions of being pulled left and right. There was some drama and growing suspense with the bad guys, and I'm calling it right now, but I think her and Tavarian are going to grow closer with all the tension going on in this. I liked it, I think you should read it if you like dragons and steampunk, and honestly, if anything happens to Lessie....
It's a 4.5 for me. Lessie is probably my favorite thing about this series because of how adorable she is. She can be so pristine sometimes but it's part of her charm, and her bond with Zara is seriously a warm blanket on my heart every time they interact (which is always, so-). Things are definitely picking up, as it's no longer just Zara's life that she has to worry about. There's possibility of war coming, which is a bit of a problem considering out MC doesn't believe in it. But now the threat of an ancient evil is coming back up again, which means Zara has much more to lose than her country if she doesn't do something.
It was a nice flow with following Zara as she went through the motions of being pulled left and right. There was some drama and growing suspense with the bad guys, and I'm calling it right now, but I think her and Tavarian are going to grow closer with all the tension going on in this. I liked it, I think you should read it if you like dragons and steampunk, and honestly, if anything happens to Lessie....
June 28, 2018
This is a well written and captivating story with wonderful characters that are well defined and although different to anything else she has written the storey so far has captured my imagination, you still have a sassy ass kicking heroine named Zara who is brilliant. I wouldn’t say that there was any slow burn as there is a love interest or two but very little in the way of heat or sexual tension. This second book continues the storey. There are some unexpected twists and the ending has you reaching for the next book and leaves you frustrated when you realise that you will have to wait a for the next instalment. To me this is the sign of a good book and I can’t wait to see how the storey blossoms. I read this in a day and would say that it is probably at the moment a young teen book series that can also be enjoyed by adults as an easy read.
I read this book as a member of an ARC team and have no personal relationship with the Auther - The review is completely unbiased and my own personal view of this book
I read this book as a member of an ARC team and have no personal relationship with the Auther - The review is completely unbiased and my own personal view of this book
December 12, 2020
*****Spoilers*****
Salcombe really takes a dive toward villainous in this book. No affection or love loss is apparent between them but I wonder why after being kidnapped Zara is being so helpful to Salcombe. Defiance or pretending to find stuff would be more what I'd expect.
Lessie and Zara are working well together. They've learned quickly and their bond has grown stronger. Zara and Lessie also found a friendly being in Muza, Lord Travarian's dragon who everyone thought had died. But nope, the dragon is just estranged and in hiding.
Jallis and Zara should just give it up I think. They have limited time together and he's in a different class even it comes to militaristic knowledge and desire. Zara wants to stay far away but there's no arguing with someone who believes in the do as you're told from a superior. Whatever they may have isn't worthwhile and they have so many hiccups already with the arguing, I think anything they may develop won't be worth holding onto.
Zara ends this book seemingly on her own, without her dragon or any others.
Salcombe really takes a dive toward villainous in this book. No affection or love loss is apparent between them but I wonder why after being kidnapped Zara is being so helpful to Salcombe. Defiance or pretending to find stuff would be more what I'd expect.
Lessie and Zara are working well together. They've learned quickly and their bond has grown stronger. Zara and Lessie also found a friendly being in Muza, Lord Travarian's dragon who everyone thought had died. But nope, the dragon is just estranged and in hiding.
Jallis and Zara should just give it up I think. They have limited time together and he's in a different class even it comes to militaristic knowledge and desire. Zara wants to stay far away but there's no arguing with someone who believes in the do as you're told from a superior. Whatever they may have isn't worthwhile and they have so many hiccups already with the arguing, I think anything they may develop won't be worth holding onto.
Zara ends this book seemingly on her own, without her dragon or any others.
June 29, 2018
The adventures of Lessie and her dragon rider Zara continue in the second book in this series. The war looms ever closer and threats come from all sides. Salcombe continues his search for pieces of thedragon heart, forcing Zara to do his bidding. Though we all know by now she won't let him keep her long. There are a few twists and turns that take us all over the place where we meet some new characters and see how well Zara does witg being told what to do 😁 Though I did not find this as riveting as the first, it is still a four star read that had my attention the entire time and I will definitely be continuing this journey with Zara and am excited to see how the next chapter unfolds. Miss Drake has created a unique world, with intriguing characters that I hope to see grow and flourish along the way. Thank you for another entertaining read.
May 30, 2021
The second book of the Dragon Riders of Elantia was a let-down. It ends with a "to be continued" at an arbitrary point. As a book it is a failure. There is no comprehensive sense of unit to the content, nor any rising tension and relief, to say anything of resolution. "The characters did some things," is about the best that can be said of it.
And while we're talking about the characters, they're all quite dumb, especially our heroine. She revels in her snarkiness but crumples before any actual authority. She bites her tongue and seeths or else boldly runs into action without a moment consideration. The number of times she's rescued by pure chance strains suspension of disbelief. Also, her relationships are shallow things without any real sense behind them.
I have the 3rd one because it was on sale from Audible, but I'm not sure I'll get around to it anytime soon.
And while we're talking about the characters, they're all quite dumb, especially our heroine. She revels in her snarkiness but crumples before any actual authority. She bites her tongue and seeths or else boldly runs into action without a moment consideration. The number of times she's rescued by pure chance strains suspension of disbelief. Also, her relationships are shallow things without any real sense behind them.
I have the 3rd one because it was on sale from Audible, but I'm not sure I'll get around to it anytime soon.
December 4, 2023
4/5 ⭐️
We finally getting some more world building other than that I don't know how to feel about book #2
TBH It feels a bit all over the place and
Zara's character has so much potential but she just keeps doing dümb sħïț like girl do you have ADHD or just a hero complex ?
You cannot expect to just save everyone when you are just a newbie in this "world" yourself. If I'm understanding the timeline correctly she's only been a rider for a couple of months.
I get it you didn't want to be a cadet but here we are
You didn't want to be sent to the front line but here we are again.
All you have to do is have a concrete plan and see your way out of it not run into trouble every five seconds cus you can't stay still then expect someone else to come to your rescue 🤦🏻♀️
Not sure if I even want to keep going with the series.
We finally getting some more world building other than that I don't know how to feel about book #2
TBH It feels a bit all over the place and
Zara's character has so much potential but she just keeps doing dümb sħïț like girl do you have ADHD or just a hero complex ?
You cannot expect to just save everyone when you are just a newbie in this "world" yourself. If I'm understanding the timeline correctly she's only been a rider for a couple of months.
I get it you didn't want to be a cadet but here we are
You didn't want to be sent to the front line but here we are again.
All you have to do is have a concrete plan and see your way out of it not run into trouble every five seconds cus you can't stay still then expect someone else to come to your rescue 🤦🏻♀️
Not sure if I even want to keep going with the series.
June 8, 2024
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Might have spoilers of the first book.
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I think I liked this book more than the first one. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, knowing how the fist one ended. The thing is, when the characters are in an academy, specially when it’s a fantasy book, I’ve always liked the parts where the author explains all the subjects and when there are scenes with the characters in the classes explaining what they do. I don’t know why, but I’ve always liked it. So I was a bit worried when Zara had to leave and go into hiding, but I had nothing to be worried about.
I was immediately pulled into the book and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. The MC seems to be very unfortunate at times, but she people that care about her.
I can’t wait to see what the next book is going to bring. I’ve already bought it.
Might have spoilers of the first book.
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I think I liked this book more than the first one. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, knowing how the fist one ended. The thing is, when the characters are in an academy, specially when it’s a fantasy book, I’ve always liked the parts where the author explains all the subjects and when there are scenes with the characters in the classes explaining what they do. I don’t know why, but I’ve always liked it. So I was a bit worried when Zara had to leave and go into hiding, but I had nothing to be worried about.
I was immediately pulled into the book and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. The MC seems to be very unfortunate at times, but she people that care about her.
I can’t wait to see what the next book is going to bring. I’ve already bought it.
October 21, 2025
36% DNF
I'd rate this 2.5* simply for book 1.
So... this is a me thing but I hate repetition. The books are not long, an odd 200 pages, there is no need to keep feeding us the same information as book 1. When I start getting annoyed and start skipping rather than skimming, I know I'm done.
None of the characters are young, well except Nellie (baby dragon) point is, it reads very Y/A. We keep being reminded the heroine is all grown up and has been intimate..... yet she falls over when one of the MCs takes his shirt off. Yeah girl we believe you....not.
Personally I think the author didn't put in as much effort as book 1. Just reading the first few chapters feels like a let down. One of the fight scenes is almost identical to book 1.
I'm also not a fan of lazy villains. This story is villain light.
I'd rate this 2.5* simply for book 1.
So... this is a me thing but I hate repetition. The books are not long, an odd 200 pages, there is no need to keep feeding us the same information as book 1. When I start getting annoyed and start skipping rather than skimming, I know I'm done.
None of the characters are young, well except Nellie (baby dragon) point is, it reads very Y/A. We keep being reminded the heroine is all grown up and has been intimate..... yet she falls over when one of the MCs takes his shirt off. Yeah girl we believe you....not.
Personally I think the author didn't put in as much effort as book 1. Just reading the first few chapters feels like a let down. One of the fight scenes is almost identical to book 1.
I'm also not a fan of lazy villains. This story is villain light.
December 26, 2025
DNF @ 15%
After rating the first book 4.5 stars, I didn’t expect the second one to go downhill so fast. Since book one, Zara and Tavarian’s relationship was described as a protector and protégé / father and daughter one, with the power difference and age gap being highlighted even on this book. So, why, after not even 2 pages, is Zara lusting over Tavarian wearing only loose trousers to hand-to-hand combat training, meshing his pelvis right against her inner thigh, pressing her body into the ground and “clamping his thighs around her hips tight enough to make her squirm”? It’s even worse when you remember she was supposed to be with Jallis while this happened.
It truly feels like this story took a huge 180° after the end of book one, and considering I was never a fan of this type or relationships, I’m no longer continuing with this saga.
After rating the first book 4.5 stars, I didn’t expect the second one to go downhill so fast. Since book one, Zara and Tavarian’s relationship was described as a protector and protégé / father and daughter one, with the power difference and age gap being highlighted even on this book. So, why, after not even 2 pages, is Zara lusting over Tavarian wearing only loose trousers to hand-to-hand combat training, meshing his pelvis right against her inner thigh, pressing her body into the ground and “clamping his thighs around her hips tight enough to make her squirm”? It’s even worse when you remember she was supposed to be with Jallis while this happened.
It truly feels like this story took a huge 180° after the end of book one, and considering I was never a fan of this type or relationships, I’m no longer continuing with this saga.
December 22, 2018
This is sad. I don't know what happened between the first and second book but I just didn't like the way she wrote in this book. Maybe, she wrote this way in the first book and i just didn't realize it. Maybe I have just been in a third person perspective book spiral and I'm not used to first person anymore...I don't know. I just know that I'm fully awake now and it was pretty bad. She didn't show me anything instead she told me everything that was happening was happening. I had to force myself to finish it and it was only about 200 pages. Most likely not gonna finish out the series because I was so bored with this book.
July 2, 2024
This series has been really good so far. The characters are very interesting and Lessie is just hilarious.
Now that Lessie & Zara have bonded, they have been training and learning. Zara especially faces more challenges than Lessie. They always talk about things and decelop strategies but when Zara is taken by Salcomb again they vow to find out how her location was revealed. After that while training again, things start to happen and the next thing is Zara & Lessie are headed to war. Both are very concerned about being involved in war. Zara knows nothing about war and Lessie is a new flyer so off they go. Knowing Zara and following rules, her time spent learning turns out to be very interesting. Lessie & Zara make an excellent team and their adventures are going to get better and better. ⁹
Now that Lessie & Zara have bonded, they have been training and learning. Zara especially faces more challenges than Lessie. They always talk about things and decelop strategies but when Zara is taken by Salcomb again they vow to find out how her location was revealed. After that while training again, things start to happen and the next thing is Zara & Lessie are headed to war. Both are very concerned about being involved in war. Zara knows nothing about war and Lessie is a new flyer so off they go. Knowing Zara and following rules, her time spent learning turns out to be very interesting. Lessie & Zara make an excellent team and their adventures are going to get better and better. ⁹
July 23, 2024
I DNF:ed it at 50%. I can’t take it anymoooooore. Everything was just boring and rushed and the writing started getting on my nerves. A lot of important things are left unexplained and I found myself not giving a single 🦆 about anything that is happening in this world. The only remotely interesting thing in this book is lord Tavarian.
Also the author still hasn’t made Jallis likable. Isn’t he supposed to be the main love interest?
Just change Jallis out for Tavarian please, at least he has a freaking personality unlike the unsalted soup that is Jallis. Also there’s somehow STILL more *wink wink* tension between Zara and Tavarian than there is Zara and Jallis💀💀💀.
Maybe I’m just the problem idk. I’m usually not picky but this book is just meh.
Also the author still hasn’t made Jallis likable. Isn’t he supposed to be the main love interest?
Just change Jallis out for Tavarian please, at least he has a freaking personality unlike the unsalted soup that is Jallis. Also there’s somehow STILL more *wink wink* tension between Zara and Tavarian than there is Zara and Jallis💀💀💀.
Maybe I’m just the problem idk. I’m usually not picky but this book is just meh.
August 12, 2025
Seems like most of the indie books I have read lately are a combination of the Perils of Pauline and the Neverending story. I have to assume the authors are paid by the page so rather than write a tight logical book or two, they string it out for multiple books.
Perhaps we are too used to television with its’ seasons of episodes.
I rather enjoyed book one and found the characters interesting. Now I find Zara to be just boring as she blunders into one mess and another. Even her dragon’s snarkiness isn’t enough to make the read worth it.
I won’t put the effort in to learn which rider family she is related to, at what point she figures out she is in love with her mentor, or how the war will be resolved. Having to slog through 4 books is too much. Sad.😢
Perhaps we are too used to television with its’ seasons of episodes.
I rather enjoyed book one and found the characters interesting. Now I find Zara to be just boring as she blunders into one mess and another. Even her dragon’s snarkiness isn’t enough to make the read worth it.
I won’t put the effort in to learn which rider family she is related to, at what point she figures out she is in love with her mentor, or how the war will be resolved. Having to slog through 4 books is too much. Sad.😢
June 30, 2018
Anxiously awaiting the wrap up! I was really looking forward to getting this one and I was not disappointed. Enough action to keep you invested while building the anticipation a little more. Which direction will the heroine choose? I am enjoying the storyline and pace and find myself invested in the outcome. I don't want to give anything away. It's worth the money though I did get an ARC for review, I'd have still bought a copy. I love the dragon and the benevolent benefactor. The heroine sometimes seems a little immature but not too much considering her age. There's some angst, some tension, some mystery, some excitement, and lots of anticipation. Looking forward to the third book!
June 28, 2018
Zara and Lessie are back and I'm so happy about it. As soon as I got this book, I devoured it in one sitting. In my opinion, it's even better than the first book and we still have so much to find out in the upcoming books. I love how Zara and Lessie's bonding and relationship has only gotten better and their communications are usually pretty funny. I seriously can't wait for the next book - can it just be here already?! I have so many thoughts and opinions on what will happen in this series and I just want to know!!
June 30, 2018
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest
The characters + storytelling were very captivating
Zara + Lessie are trying to finish their training.
However, it is being difficult with all the drama going on around her.
Will they be able to weather this storm ?
The author pulls you into her world + she does not intend to let you go
The storytelling + the character's build were awesome!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
The characters + storytelling were very captivating
Zara + Lessie are trying to finish their training.
However, it is being difficult with all the drama going on around her.
Will they be able to weather this storm ?
The author pulls you into her world + she does not intend to let you go
The storytelling + the character's build were awesome!
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 30, 2018
I loved this book. It was a great second book in the series. Each of the stories is so good at looking at the depth of the characters and what is going on. I love Lessie and like seeing her personality change throughout the series so far. The writing does a great way to show how she ages. This story has been so good and with the ending not knowing what will happen next makes me want the next book even sooner. I enjoy the writing style and how each of the characters are developed in their own ways. Can't wait for more.
July 4, 2018
Story continues to be amazing!
Have I told you how much I love dragons? This series has me totally mesmerized. Zara and Lessie are an amazing pair and continue to grow in their bond. I am beginning to see a little bit of heat starting to blossom between Zara and Tavarian as well. Of course, Salcome continues to come around, and has captured Zara again. Will Tavarian show up to save her? Will Lessie disobey and try to rescue her? Guess book three will contain the answers. Onward I wait, impatiently, for the next book. Recommend this series for sure!
Have I told you how much I love dragons? This series has me totally mesmerized. Zara and Lessie are an amazing pair and continue to grow in their bond. I am beginning to see a little bit of heat starting to blossom between Zara and Tavarian as well. Of course, Salcome continues to come around, and has captured Zara again. Will Tavarian show up to save her? Will Lessie disobey and try to rescue her? Guess book three will contain the answers. Onward I wait, impatiently, for the next book. Recommend this series for sure!
July 7, 2018
Great Story. Can’t Wait for the Next One
Jessica Drake has written a wonderful continuation to her Dragon fantasy. Zara, the hero of the story, is a take charge, quick witted, sarcastic person who cares very much about her friends and what is right and what is wrong. With her friends and her sole-mate Dragon Lessie she ends up being sucked into different adventures that test her skills. This is the type of book that you like to read from start to end with as few breaks as possible.
Jessica Drake has written a wonderful continuation to her Dragon fantasy. Zara, the hero of the story, is a take charge, quick witted, sarcastic person who cares very much about her friends and what is right and what is wrong. With her friends and her sole-mate Dragon Lessie she ends up being sucked into different adventures that test her skills. This is the type of book that you like to read from start to end with as few breaks as possible.
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