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Alveria Dragon Akademy #1
The Dragon Tamer
A kingdom divided cannot stand. For those caught in the middle, it means death.
For centuries humans and dragons existed side by side in Alveria, bonded by their care of one another. But no longer. After decades with no viable eggs, humans far outnumber dragons, and the survival of the species appears bleak. The outlook for everyday humans is little better as rogue dragons raid and torment villages. Yet it’s far worse for the tamers, beaten and killed simply for serving the noble dragons.
But eking by at the bottom of Alverian society isn’t any easier for seventeen-year-old Kaelan Younger. Harder still when her loyalty to the dragon crown is no secret. But when her dying mother reveals a horrifying truth about her identity, Kaelan is thrust into a world for which she is ill prepared.
Faced with a new life at the proving grounds for humans and dragons alike, Kaelan must reconcile not just her past but embrace the future laid out before her. When her responsibilities as an Akademy tamer collide with her feelings for a powerful dragon shifter, it will take everything she has to prepare for the danger threatening them both. The fate of the dragons she has sworn to serve rests in her hands.
Now Kaelan is no longer an outsider.
She’s the enemy.
For centuries humans and dragons existed side by side in Alveria, bonded by their care of one another. But no longer. After decades with no viable eggs, humans far outnumber dragons, and the survival of the species appears bleak. The outlook for everyday humans is little better as rogue dragons raid and torment villages. Yet it’s far worse for the tamers, beaten and killed simply for serving the noble dragons.
But eking by at the bottom of Alverian society isn’t any easier for seventeen-year-old Kaelan Younger. Harder still when her loyalty to the dragon crown is no secret. But when her dying mother reveals a horrifying truth about her identity, Kaelan is thrust into a world for which she is ill prepared.
Faced with a new life at the proving grounds for humans and dragons alike, Kaelan must reconcile not just her past but embrace the future laid out before her. When her responsibilities as an Akademy tamer collide with her feelings for a powerful dragon shifter, it will take everything she has to prepare for the danger threatening them both. The fate of the dragons she has sworn to serve rests in her hands.
Now Kaelan is no longer an outsider.
She’s the enemy.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2018
1279 people are currently reading
1604 people want to read
About the author
Ava Richardson
149 books425 followersAva Richardson writes epic page-turning Young Adult Fantasy books. She creates lovable characters and drops them into intricate worlds that are barely contained within your eReader. Ava has written 21 YA dragon fantasy series, including her bestselling series Return of the Darkening and her recent series, Destia's Dragon Shifter War.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
January 7, 2019
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Dragon Tamer is the first installment of the Alveria Dragon Academy series. In it, you will Kaelan. She is living in pretty crappy conditions with her mother and grandmother. It also doesn't help that her mother is very sick and they have found no cure to fix her ailment. So they send her off to the Dragon Academy while also spilling that her dad isn't the most popular dragon.
Along the journey to the school, she happens to run into the Lasaro - who just happens to be the prince of this kingdom. Upon seeing her he finally shifts into a dragon for the first time ever. After rescuing her from some other dragons, he comes to the conclusion that she is his tamer.
Now at this school, you have the dragons and the tamers. Tamers are supposed to help Dragons stay sane in a way because if they don't have a tamer then they eventually go rogue. Throughout school, the dragons and tamers alike go through some challenges to ensure that they a solid bond.
Unfortunately for Kaelan, she doesn't get to go to classes to become a tamer. Some of the masters looked down upon her because she's a peasant. They actually banned her from taking classes and kept her as a worker in the kitchen. Kind of like Cinderella a little? Even though they did this, it did not thing to keep these two from hanging out and creating a stronger bond.
Of course these two were adorable. I could sense the little tension between them and kept wanting them to become an item. I wanted something form them but the little hints at a possible romance blossoming between them was enough (I guess?). Then there's that damn cliffhanger that kind of took my heart out of my chest. I can't believe they said that to each other and now I need to dive into the next book - which luckily, I have the next ARC.
Overall, I loved this book. The dragons and the world building was so freaking entertaining. I wanted to know more about her family history and I'm hoping we get more in the next one. I mean he freaking spoke to her and I want to know what the heck is going to happen next with them!
The Dragon Tamer is the first installment of the Alveria Dragon Academy series. In it, you will Kaelan. She is living in pretty crappy conditions with her mother and grandmother. It also doesn't help that her mother is very sick and they have found no cure to fix her ailment. So they send her off to the Dragon Academy while also spilling that her dad isn't the most popular dragon.
Along the journey to the school, she happens to run into the Lasaro - who just happens to be the prince of this kingdom. Upon seeing her he finally shifts into a dragon for the first time ever. After rescuing her from some other dragons, he comes to the conclusion that she is his tamer.
Now at this school, you have the dragons and the tamers. Tamers are supposed to help Dragons stay sane in a way because if they don't have a tamer then they eventually go rogue. Throughout school, the dragons and tamers alike go through some challenges to ensure that they a solid bond.
Unfortunately for Kaelan, she doesn't get to go to classes to become a tamer. Some of the masters looked down upon her because she's a peasant. They actually banned her from taking classes and kept her as a worker in the kitchen. Kind of like Cinderella a little? Even though they did this, it did not thing to keep these two from hanging out and creating a stronger bond.
Of course these two were adorable. I could sense the little tension between them and kept wanting them to become an item. I wanted something form them but the little hints at a possible romance blossoming between them was enough (I guess?). Then there's that damn cliffhanger that kind of took my heart out of my chest. I can't believe they said that to each other and now I need to dive into the next book - which luckily, I have the next ARC.
Overall, I loved this book. The dragons and the world building was so freaking entertaining. I wanted to know more about her family history and I'm hoping we get more in the next one. I mean he freaking spoke to her and I want to know what the heck is going to happen next with them!
April 21, 2019
I have to say I absolutely adored Kaelan—she was everything you could hope for in a strong YA protagonist. She never backed down and stood her ground even when all hope seemed to be lost. I especially loved her relationship with the Prince after they were bonded.
While Kaelan did have some unlikeable moments, I thought she was a well-rounded character throughout. She never forgot the purpose of her struggles, and even doubted herself when the truth came out about her father. That made her seem very real.
If you’re a fan of epic fantasy, this book has a very amazing world filled with dragons, dragon tamers, and dragon shifters. Deep characterization and excellent descriptions really bring the reading to life. Not to mention the narration.
This is one of my favorite reads of 2019, and I am super excited that this is a series because it means that I don’t have to say goodbye to Kaelan’s awesome world just yet.
While Kaelan did have some unlikeable moments, I thought she was a well-rounded character throughout. She never forgot the purpose of her struggles, and even doubted herself when the truth came out about her father. That made her seem very real.
If you’re a fan of epic fantasy, this book has a very amazing world filled with dragons, dragon tamers, and dragon shifters. Deep characterization and excellent descriptions really bring the reading to life. Not to mention the narration.
This is one of my favorite reads of 2019, and I am super excited that this is a series because it means that I don’t have to say goodbye to Kaelan’s awesome world just yet.
February 4, 2019
I love dragon academy books, and dragon riders, and just generally dragons, so when I stumbled across this in my Amazon recommendations, I was pretty excited. And for the most part, the book delivered. It was generally exciting, and the plot and world building were decent.
I do feel like the book, which was around 450 pages, could have lost a hundred pages and been fine, as it did move slowly in parts.
I also didn't really feel a very deep connection with the main characters. They just felt kind of separate from me, which may be a case of telling and not showing.
However, I did overall like the book, and am interested in seeing what happens next, so I'll read book two. While it could be boring in places, the end was a lot better. 3.5 stars.
I do feel like the book, which was around 450 pages, could have lost a hundred pages and been fine, as it did move slowly in parts.
I also didn't really feel a very deep connection with the main characters. They just felt kind of separate from me, which may be a case of telling and not showing.
However, I did overall like the book, and am interested in seeing what happens next, so I'll read book two. While it could be boring in places, the end was a lot better. 3.5 stars.
May 28, 2020
3 stars
Meh... This book was OK. Definitely wasn’t my favorite but I love my dragons, so I couldn’t do them too dirty. Anyways onto my likes and dislikes.
• I liked the idea behind the book. The plot was really interesting and I enjoyed the new world this author created.
• I really didn’t like the fact that the story centered around the two main characters. I mean obviously it centers on them but it focuses on little details that happened that were not important. Every little moment of their friendship was documented and I found myself skipping whole chapters because none of the information was I interesting.
• I also think there could’ve been more world building. The author didn’t really talk about how the world came about, how did dragons became hated, or who the opposing force even was.
All in all an interesting book but I won’t be reading the second book.
Meh... This book was OK. Definitely wasn’t my favorite but I love my dragons, so I couldn’t do them too dirty. Anyways onto my likes and dislikes.
• I liked the idea behind the book. The plot was really interesting and I enjoyed the new world this author created.
• I really didn’t like the fact that the story centered around the two main characters. I mean obviously it centers on them but it focuses on little details that happened that were not important. Every little moment of their friendship was documented and I found myself skipping whole chapters because none of the information was I interesting.
• I also think there could’ve been more world building. The author didn’t really talk about how the world came about, how did dragons became hated, or who the opposing force even was.
All in all an interesting book but I won’t be reading the second book.
August 7, 2020
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest opinion.
This is a good start to a series with interesting characters and good world building.
Unfortunately the story was slow in places so only 3 stars.
The author never seems to fail with interesting ideas though.
I will definitely read the next in the series.
This is a good start to a series with interesting characters and good world building.
Unfortunately the story was slow in places so only 3 stars.
The author never seems to fail with interesting ideas though.
I will definitely read the next in the series.
July 25, 2019
Mehr auf: https://xobooksheaven.wordpress.com/
Inhalt:
Ein geteiltes Königreich kann nicht überleben. Für die, die inmitten dieses Kampfes gefangen sind, bedeutet es den Tod.Seit Jahrhunderten lebten Menschen und Drachen in Alveria Seite an Seite, verbunden durch ihre gegenseitige Sorge. Aber das war einmal. Nach Jahrzehnten ohne lebensfähige Eier übertrifft die Zahl der Menschen die der Drachen bei weitem und für das Überleben der Arten sieht es düster aus. Die Aussichten für die gewöhnlichen Menschen sind wenig besser, da Drachenschurken Dörfer überfallen und quälen. Doch sieht es für die Zähmer viel schlechter aus, die geschlagen und gequält werden, nur weil sie den edlen Drachen dienen.Aber es ist auch für die siebzehnjährige Kaelan Younger nicht einfacher, auf der untersten Stufe der Gesellschaft von Alveria das Leben zu fristen. Noch härter wird es, da ihre Treue zur Drachenkrone kein Geheimnis ist. Aber als ihre sterbenskranke Mutter ihr ein schreckliches Geheimnis über ihre Herkunft enthüllt, wird Kaelan in eine Welt versetzt, auf die sie schlecht vorbereitet ist.Dort, wo Menschen und Drachen gleichermaßen auf die Probe gestellt werden, einem neuen Leben gegenübertretend, muss Kaelan sich nicht nur mit ihrer Vergangenheit versöhnen, sondern sich auch auf die Zukunft einlassen, die vor ihr liegt. Als ihre Aufgaben als Zähmerin in der Akademie mit ihren Gefühlen für einen mächtigen Drachengestaltwandler kollidieren, wird es sie alle Kraft kosten, um sich auf die Gefahr vorzubereiten, die sie beide bedroht. Das Schicksal der Drachen, denen zu dienen sie geschworen hat, liegt in ihren Händen. Jetzt ist Kaelan keine Außenseiterin mehr. Sie ist der Feind.
Quelle: amazon.de
Meinung:
Kaelan Younger hielt ihren Korb schützen unter ihrem Arm, während sie sich durch den kleinen, überdachten Markt schlängelte.
Das Cover von dem Buch hat mir eigentlich sofort gefallen. Es strahlt schon Magie aus und ich habe mir dadurch ein Buch voller Kämpfe und Magie erwartet. Ebenso sieht man auch schon die Drachen darauf, die hier eine große Rolle spielen.
Der Schreibstil war nicht ganz so meines. Mit diesem hatte ich wohl meine größten Probleme. Die Charaktere blieben mir alle fern, da der Schreibstil auch distanziert auf mich wirkte. Weiters konnte ich mir auch die Orte nicht wirklich vorstellen, da es für mich zu wenige Beschreibungen gab. Geschrieben ist das Buch aus der allwissenden Perspektive und diese wechselt sich zwischen Kaelan und Lasaro ab.
Zu Beginn lernt man Kaelan kennen. Ihre Mutter ist sehr krank und nur ein Drache kann ihr helfen. Als ihre Mutter ihr dann eröffnet, dass ihr Vater ein Drache war, macht Kaelan sich zur Akademie auf, um als Drache oder Zähmer aufgenommen zu werden und ihre Mutter zu retten.
Ich wäre ohne die Leserunde nie auf das Buch aufmerksam geworden. Es hörte sich wirklich vielversprechend an, leider war es dann doch nicht mein Fall. Der Einstieg war ganz ok, aber jetzt nichts besonderes. Man lernt Kaelan und ihr Leben ein bisschen kennen und sieht, dass es ihr und ihrer Familie nicht gut geht. Bereits hier war sie mir unsympathisch, da sie oftmals sehr naiv ist und hin und wieder auch ein bisschen dümmlich auf mich wirkte. Ich wurde auch im ganzen Buch nicht warm mit ihr.
Die Geschichte an sich hätte so gut werden können, Drachen und Zähmer, das hört sich ja klasse an. Leider war so viel von der Geschichte ohne Drachen und auch die Ausbildung in der Akademie kam für mich zu kurz. Stattdessen wurde sich auf die zwischenmenschliche Beziehungen konzentriert und viele Dinger wiederholten sich immer wieder. Mit der Zeit wurde das dann für mich einfach langweilig, weil ich mir mehr Training gewünscht hätte und auch mehr Drachen. Magie war auch nicht gerade viel vorhanden, bis es dann am Ende einen Konflikt zu lösen gab.
Weiters hätte ich mir auch mehr Erklärungen und Hintergrundwissen gewünscht. Manchmal habe ich mich gefragt, warum etwas so ist, wie es eben ist, aber das wird in dem Buch einfach nicht wirklich erklärt. Über die Drachen im allgemeinen hätte ich gerne mehr gewusst und auch über Mordon, einen Drachen, der zu einem Schurken wurde. Und können wir kurz darüber reden, dass die bösen Drachen Schurken heißen? Ich fand das einfach so witzig und musste jedes Mal fast lachen. Das war so, als würde mir ein Kind von einem bösen Kerl erzählen, das hat einfach nicht gepasst.
Gegen Ende wurde es dann spannender, allerdings ging alles viel zu schnell und Kaelan war plötzlich der Überflieger. Menschen, die sie nicht mochten, helfen ihr und sie kann einfach alles. Irgendwie sehr klischeehaft. Der Kampf am Ende war aber insgesamt recht gut gemacht und auch spannend. Wenn ich schon bei Dingen bin, die mir gefallen haben, möchte ich auch die Königin hervorheben. Sie war der einzige Charakter, der mich wirklich interessiert hat, da man mehrere Seiten von ihr sieht und diese sehr verschieden sind. Es gab auch ein Zusammentreffen von Lasaro und ihr, das ich gerne mochte.
Ach Lasaro, der Prinz. Er hat gute Intentionen für sein Land, aber hat absolut keine Führungsqualitäten für mich und er wirkt auch noch sehr unreif. Wie schlimm müssen die anderen Geschwister sein, wenn er der beste Kandidat ist? Er kommt nur an die Akademie, um zu lernen, sich in einen Drachen zu verwandeln, was er bis jetzt nicht konnte. Dann siehr er Kaelan einmal und er wird zum Überflieger? Das passte einfach nicht, denn vorher konnte er wirklich gar nichts. Ich wurde auch mit ihm nicht warm, er blieb einfach sehr blass und für mich wirkte er auch nicht wie ein Prinz.
Das Ende war gut, der Kampf hat mir gefallen, wie es dann aber ausging, dass Kaelan sozusagen alles in den Schoß fällt war übertrieben. Zuerst wird sie nicht einmal richtig aufgenommen in der Akademie und am Ende ist alles Friede, Freude, Eierkuchen. Hm, irgendwie schade.
Fazit:
Die Geschichte hat sich so gut angehört, aber die Umsetzung war absolut nichts für mich. Ich mochte die Charaktere nicht und die Geschichte war größtenteils langweilig. Der Schreibstil hat es für mich leider nicht besser gemacht. Den zweiten Band werde ich nicht lesen, aber für jüngere Leser ist das Buch sicher gut. Ich vergebe 2 Sterne.
Inhalt:
Ein geteiltes Königreich kann nicht überleben. Für die, die inmitten dieses Kampfes gefangen sind, bedeutet es den Tod.Seit Jahrhunderten lebten Menschen und Drachen in Alveria Seite an Seite, verbunden durch ihre gegenseitige Sorge. Aber das war einmal. Nach Jahrzehnten ohne lebensfähige Eier übertrifft die Zahl der Menschen die der Drachen bei weitem und für das Überleben der Arten sieht es düster aus. Die Aussichten für die gewöhnlichen Menschen sind wenig besser, da Drachenschurken Dörfer überfallen und quälen. Doch sieht es für die Zähmer viel schlechter aus, die geschlagen und gequält werden, nur weil sie den edlen Drachen dienen.Aber es ist auch für die siebzehnjährige Kaelan Younger nicht einfacher, auf der untersten Stufe der Gesellschaft von Alveria das Leben zu fristen. Noch härter wird es, da ihre Treue zur Drachenkrone kein Geheimnis ist. Aber als ihre sterbenskranke Mutter ihr ein schreckliches Geheimnis über ihre Herkunft enthüllt, wird Kaelan in eine Welt versetzt, auf die sie schlecht vorbereitet ist.Dort, wo Menschen und Drachen gleichermaßen auf die Probe gestellt werden, einem neuen Leben gegenübertretend, muss Kaelan sich nicht nur mit ihrer Vergangenheit versöhnen, sondern sich auch auf die Zukunft einlassen, die vor ihr liegt. Als ihre Aufgaben als Zähmerin in der Akademie mit ihren Gefühlen für einen mächtigen Drachengestaltwandler kollidieren, wird es sie alle Kraft kosten, um sich auf die Gefahr vorzubereiten, die sie beide bedroht. Das Schicksal der Drachen, denen zu dienen sie geschworen hat, liegt in ihren Händen. Jetzt ist Kaelan keine Außenseiterin mehr. Sie ist der Feind.
Quelle: amazon.de
Meinung:
Kaelan Younger hielt ihren Korb schützen unter ihrem Arm, während sie sich durch den kleinen, überdachten Markt schlängelte.
Das Cover von dem Buch hat mir eigentlich sofort gefallen. Es strahlt schon Magie aus und ich habe mir dadurch ein Buch voller Kämpfe und Magie erwartet. Ebenso sieht man auch schon die Drachen darauf, die hier eine große Rolle spielen.
Der Schreibstil war nicht ganz so meines. Mit diesem hatte ich wohl meine größten Probleme. Die Charaktere blieben mir alle fern, da der Schreibstil auch distanziert auf mich wirkte. Weiters konnte ich mir auch die Orte nicht wirklich vorstellen, da es für mich zu wenige Beschreibungen gab. Geschrieben ist das Buch aus der allwissenden Perspektive und diese wechselt sich zwischen Kaelan und Lasaro ab.
Zu Beginn lernt man Kaelan kennen. Ihre Mutter ist sehr krank und nur ein Drache kann ihr helfen. Als ihre Mutter ihr dann eröffnet, dass ihr Vater ein Drache war, macht Kaelan sich zur Akademie auf, um als Drache oder Zähmer aufgenommen zu werden und ihre Mutter zu retten.
Ich wäre ohne die Leserunde nie auf das Buch aufmerksam geworden. Es hörte sich wirklich vielversprechend an, leider war es dann doch nicht mein Fall. Der Einstieg war ganz ok, aber jetzt nichts besonderes. Man lernt Kaelan und ihr Leben ein bisschen kennen und sieht, dass es ihr und ihrer Familie nicht gut geht. Bereits hier war sie mir unsympathisch, da sie oftmals sehr naiv ist und hin und wieder auch ein bisschen dümmlich auf mich wirkte. Ich wurde auch im ganzen Buch nicht warm mit ihr.
Die Geschichte an sich hätte so gut werden können, Drachen und Zähmer, das hört sich ja klasse an. Leider war so viel von der Geschichte ohne Drachen und auch die Ausbildung in der Akademie kam für mich zu kurz. Stattdessen wurde sich auf die zwischenmenschliche Beziehungen konzentriert und viele Dinger wiederholten sich immer wieder. Mit der Zeit wurde das dann für mich einfach langweilig, weil ich mir mehr Training gewünscht hätte und auch mehr Drachen. Magie war auch nicht gerade viel vorhanden, bis es dann am Ende einen Konflikt zu lösen gab.
Weiters hätte ich mir auch mehr Erklärungen und Hintergrundwissen gewünscht. Manchmal habe ich mich gefragt, warum etwas so ist, wie es eben ist, aber das wird in dem Buch einfach nicht wirklich erklärt. Über die Drachen im allgemeinen hätte ich gerne mehr gewusst und auch über Mordon, einen Drachen, der zu einem Schurken wurde. Und können wir kurz darüber reden, dass die bösen Drachen Schurken heißen? Ich fand das einfach so witzig und musste jedes Mal fast lachen. Das war so, als würde mir ein Kind von einem bösen Kerl erzählen, das hat einfach nicht gepasst.
Gegen Ende wurde es dann spannender, allerdings ging alles viel zu schnell und Kaelan war plötzlich der Überflieger. Menschen, die sie nicht mochten, helfen ihr und sie kann einfach alles. Irgendwie sehr klischeehaft. Der Kampf am Ende war aber insgesamt recht gut gemacht und auch spannend. Wenn ich schon bei Dingen bin, die mir gefallen haben, möchte ich auch die Königin hervorheben. Sie war der einzige Charakter, der mich wirklich interessiert hat, da man mehrere Seiten von ihr sieht und diese sehr verschieden sind. Es gab auch ein Zusammentreffen von Lasaro und ihr, das ich gerne mochte.
Ach Lasaro, der Prinz. Er hat gute Intentionen für sein Land, aber hat absolut keine Führungsqualitäten für mich und er wirkt auch noch sehr unreif. Wie schlimm müssen die anderen Geschwister sein, wenn er der beste Kandidat ist? Er kommt nur an die Akademie, um zu lernen, sich in einen Drachen zu verwandeln, was er bis jetzt nicht konnte. Dann siehr er Kaelan einmal und er wird zum Überflieger? Das passte einfach nicht, denn vorher konnte er wirklich gar nichts. Ich wurde auch mit ihm nicht warm, er blieb einfach sehr blass und für mich wirkte er auch nicht wie ein Prinz.
Das Ende war gut, der Kampf hat mir gefallen, wie es dann aber ausging, dass Kaelan sozusagen alles in den Schoß fällt war übertrieben. Zuerst wird sie nicht einmal richtig aufgenommen in der Akademie und am Ende ist alles Friede, Freude, Eierkuchen. Hm, irgendwie schade.
Fazit:
Die Geschichte hat sich so gut angehört, aber die Umsetzung war absolut nichts für mich. Ich mochte die Charaktere nicht und die Geschichte war größtenteils langweilig. Der Schreibstil hat es für mich leider nicht besser gemacht. Den zweiten Band werde ich nicht lesen, aber für jüngere Leser ist das Buch sicher gut. Ich vergebe 2 Sterne.
Read
December 22, 2021Interesting world, enough to overcome my general reticence about shifters. The characters were interesting, but the come close--no go away angst that seemed to be the relationship dynamic got exhausting for me. But that is a matter of personal taste.
The prince and the poor girl with a secret trope worked well enough for an entertaining story. The twists were a little predictable, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing since the characters and world were entertaining. I will probably read the next book.
The prince and the poor girl with a secret trope worked well enough for an entertaining story. The twists were a little predictable, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing since the characters and world were entertaining. I will probably read the next book.
May 1, 2020
I found this book via the NEXT series set in this world, The Untamables, and loved it so much, I had to backtrack and learn about Kaelan! Her story in the next series seemed so fascinating and complex I knew it would suck me right in!
And I was right. It seems that Richardson has a talent for fantasy creation, as this series, while similar in design and formation to the next, is still somehow completely different, and the events that envelope the world are complex and rather devastating.
Kaelan is tough, unexpected and determined to succeed - even if it seems that most everyone around her wants to see her fall, for the simple reason that she is a peasant. Not because she is a girl, or dangerous... but because she is a PEASANT! It's startling, and when the rest of her shadowy history comes to light, look out!
And I was right. It seems that Richardson has a talent for fantasy creation, as this series, while similar in design and formation to the next, is still somehow completely different, and the events that envelope the world are complex and rather devastating.
Kaelan is tough, unexpected and determined to succeed - even if it seems that most everyone around her wants to see her fall, for the simple reason that she is a peasant. Not because she is a girl, or dangerous... but because she is a PEASANT! It's startling, and when the rest of her shadowy history comes to light, look out!
August 19, 2023
I loved it
I honestly loved the book, it accomplished what many could not and really grabs ahold of your emotions and makes you so invested in the story.
At first I thought I hated the story, but it was because of how the story was affecting the characters I've come to love. This is a great book, I'm excited to continue the series 😀
I honestly loved the book, it accomplished what many could not and really grabs ahold of your emotions and makes you so invested in the story.
At first I thought I hated the story, but it was because of how the story was affecting the characters I've come to love. This is a great book, I'm excited to continue the series 😀
April 4, 2023
Eh below average
December 24, 2018
Kaelan, an outsider who's love for her mother runs so deep that she's willing to risk it all to heal her dying soul.
Let me start off by saying that I'm completely in love with dragons, I love everything about them but it's rare that I find a book that I like that capture dragons in such captivating light and on top of that being a shapeshifter book but, Ava certainly accomplished this. This book is so descriptive and because of that it paints a picture from the words splashed on the page, I couldn't put it down, there were some parts in the book where I gasped at some revelations even though I knew they'd most likely end up that way - once you've read enough books you know what to look for - but I was captivated, none the less.
There were some parts at the beginning where the author used too many words to describe something when they weren't really needed but that is one of those things that differ from person to person.
I strongly recommend this book to people who even have a remote interest in dragons, adventure etc. I'm looking forward to the second book in December and hopefully, I'll get to read it.
I recieved a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start off by saying that I'm completely in love with dragons, I love everything about them but it's rare that I find a book that I like that capture dragons in such captivating light and on top of that being a shapeshifter book but, Ava certainly accomplished this. This book is so descriptive and because of that it paints a picture from the words splashed on the page, I couldn't put it down, there were some parts in the book where I gasped at some revelations even though I knew they'd most likely end up that way - once you've read enough books you know what to look for - but I was captivated, none the less.
There were some parts at the beginning where the author used too many words to describe something when they weren't really needed but that is one of those things that differ from person to person.
I strongly recommend this book to people who even have a remote interest in dragons, adventure etc. I'm looking forward to the second book in December and hopefully, I'll get to read it.
I recieved a free copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2018
This was such a sassy story; I loved it!
I don't know what it is about a good dragon book, but I can never find myself putting it down. I devoured this one in one night, and I'm glad to say that it's worth it.
The world building and background information was enticing and left me wanting to explore it further. There's dragons and magic and kingdoms galore!
When the characters clash, I was left on the edge of my seat (or really, my bed). The writing tells a great story that you can't help but place yourself within the world.
I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend this book fro those who love dragons and just an all-around great, new fantasy story. I can't wait to see where this world takes me next.
June 8, 2022
Brava. That was much better than I expected. And I had incredibly low standards because...well, I know what most books like this are.
And it wasn't that. Other books in the series may be but this one isn't.
Not a standalone. Not even pretending to be one.
That being said, soft magic system, but interesting worldbuilding. I like the relationship between dragon and tamer. I get the feeling that things are going to be changing for things. Because that's how these things go.
But I'm okay with that. They're actually in a healthy-ish relationship. Breath of fresh air.
And it wasn't that. Other books in the series may be but this one isn't.
Not a standalone. Not even pretending to be one.
That being said, soft magic system, but interesting worldbuilding. I like the relationship between dragon and tamer. I get the feeling that things are going to be changing for things. Because that's how these things go.
But I'm okay with that. They're actually in a healthy-ish relationship. Breath of fresh air.
October 18, 2019
Review
Its was really good, I recommend it to dragon lovers!!! The main character is a fierce girl and a great role model. If you liked this read Shadow of the Dragon by Kathryn D’ Lasky
Its was really good, I recommend it to dragon lovers!!! The main character is a fierce girl and a great role model. If you liked this read Shadow of the Dragon by Kathryn D’ Lasky
Want to read
February 9, 2022Ayo did I hear dragons? An academy? An academy WITH dragons????? I’m sold
Wait… nvm it may not be an academy….but it’s still dragons
Wait… nvm it may not be an academy….but it’s still dragons
May 29, 2019
Okay so, reading this blurb, looking at the cover and seeing the word dragons, I WAS THRILLED! I was so excited and really hopeful.
So this is how the book starts, it starts you know kinda good, not very slow and quickly gets to the part where she goes to the academy. For about let’s say from Chapters 11 to 21 things were one word: boring. Nothing happened. And by that I mean NOTHINT HAPPENED. She arrived at the academy but wasn’t training and so legit nothing happened. And on top of that, she bonded with Lasaro very very quickly. Like they saw each other and they were instantly matched. No mystery or difficulty in their relationship at the start. It was too quick for my liking, I mean they were dating but they were friends. I would have preferred things to be slower.
Then with the last 10 chapters, I have to admit, things got better. Like it was interesting, things happened and more resistance to their relationship. I could barley go through the book and thought I would 100% not finish the series, by the end I convinced myself I have to continue.
So yeahh idk, wasn’t too bad tbh. Next book sounds like it’ll get better with more action.
So this is how the book starts, it starts you know kinda good, not very slow and quickly gets to the part where she goes to the academy. For about let’s say from Chapters 11 to 21 things were one word: boring. Nothing happened. And by that I mean NOTHINT HAPPENED. She arrived at the academy but wasn’t training and so legit nothing happened. And on top of that, she bonded with Lasaro very very quickly. Like they saw each other and they were instantly matched. No mystery or difficulty in their relationship at the start. It was too quick for my liking, I mean they were dating but they were friends. I would have preferred things to be slower.
Then with the last 10 chapters, I have to admit, things got better. Like it was interesting, things happened and more resistance to their relationship. I could barley go through the book and thought I would 100% not finish the series, by the end I convinced myself I have to continue.
So yeahh idk, wasn’t too bad tbh. Next book sounds like it’ll get better with more action.
April 11, 2019
"In Alveria, humans and dragons have existed side by side for centuries, but old tensions have grown and the kingdom is now divided..."
In The Dragon Tamer, Kaelan discovers she has a dragon heritage which allows her to enter the Alveria Akademy - a school for humans and dragons to learn their skills and be paired together. Kaelan is a peasant and this opportunity is one she must take for herself and her mother who is ill and needs a dragon's special healing to make her well again. Kaelan travels a great distance to the school and as she draws closer circumstances bring her and Prince Lasaro together, where he very quickly determines that she must be his tamer.
One of the main conversations I had with myself as I read this book was how old the characters 'really' are vs what my perception of them was. Although the book places the main characters in the 16/17 year old range, I often felt that they were younger. Younger in that conversations and feelings they had sounded more like 11-13 yrs old. The characters were often impetuous in both what they said and what they did. An example is when Prince Lasaro decided that Kaelan is his tamer - no discussion, or thinking about it over night. He made his decision and it was done. This led me to a full discussion in that perhaps most authors write 16/17yr olds more mature than their intended age and instead maybe this author is writing the characters more accurately. In the end, I was torn, but still believe their conversations and actions make them sound more like they are 11-13.
I found the world-building was just ok. In the story, you do learn of a neighboring country, but through-out the story when you would hear of it you didn't really get a good understanding of what the political or cultural tension was. You just knew there were issues. There also wasn't too much background on the main antagonists and what they may be up to or the reasons behind their evil deeds. I also found the characters a little flat, especially the supporting cast, like other dragons/tamers. Prince Lasaro has siblings, but you don't get more than a "they're are just not right for the throne" informational sentences. I did like the 2 main characters and thought they complimented each other well, but if they are 16/17 I would expect more in depth conversations about life and whatnot.
All in all, if you go into it with the mindset that the book is geared more toward middle age students and not YA then you might find this a rather enjoyable read. However, I was just a bit confused on how I should view the characters and what emotional depth I should expect from them.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, and I gave an honest review.
In The Dragon Tamer, Kaelan discovers she has a dragon heritage which allows her to enter the Alveria Akademy - a school for humans and dragons to learn their skills and be paired together. Kaelan is a peasant and this opportunity is one she must take for herself and her mother who is ill and needs a dragon's special healing to make her well again. Kaelan travels a great distance to the school and as she draws closer circumstances bring her and Prince Lasaro together, where he very quickly determines that she must be his tamer.
One of the main conversations I had with myself as I read this book was how old the characters 'really' are vs what my perception of them was. Although the book places the main characters in the 16/17 year old range, I often felt that they were younger. Younger in that conversations and feelings they had sounded more like 11-13 yrs old. The characters were often impetuous in both what they said and what they did. An example is when Prince Lasaro decided that Kaelan is his tamer - no discussion, or thinking about it over night. He made his decision and it was done. This led me to a full discussion in that perhaps most authors write 16/17yr olds more mature than their intended age and instead maybe this author is writing the characters more accurately. In the end, I was torn, but still believe their conversations and actions make them sound more like they are 11-13.
I found the world-building was just ok. In the story, you do learn of a neighboring country, but through-out the story when you would hear of it you didn't really get a good understanding of what the political or cultural tension was. You just knew there were issues. There also wasn't too much background on the main antagonists and what they may be up to or the reasons behind their evil deeds. I also found the characters a little flat, especially the supporting cast, like other dragons/tamers. Prince Lasaro has siblings, but you don't get more than a "they're are just not right for the throne" informational sentences. I did like the 2 main characters and thought they complimented each other well, but if they are 16/17 I would expect more in depth conversations about life and whatnot.
All in all, if you go into it with the mindset that the book is geared more toward middle age students and not YA then you might find this a rather enjoyable read. However, I was just a bit confused on how I should view the characters and what emotional depth I should expect from them.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book, through Reading Deals, and I gave an honest review.
November 11, 2018
Lots of magic and an intriguing plot. I enjoyed reading about the MC discovering her magical abilities, fighting the nobles for her rightful place, and the plot. The prince's pov was also nice to read - a prince who has to fight his fears in order to earn a position he wants.
It was very much a YA book. The type where girl meets boy and awkwardly flirt, love, then breakup, repeat. Annoyingly, it took up a major portion of the book, and I skimmed though most of those parts. I would have loved the book were it not for the romance. It would've made the characters a lot more interesting.
This is definitely not a character driven novel though. The characters are a little flat, even the MC, but they're developed enough to not ruin the story.
Still, aside from that, I really did enjoy the character's growing magical abilities and I'd be interested in reading the next book, if only to get closure on knowing what happens next. It was compelling in that way. Younger readers, or people who like that kind of romance, would enjoy this book.
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It was very much a YA book. The type where girl meets boy and awkwardly flirt, love, then breakup, repeat. Annoyingly, it took up a major portion of the book, and I skimmed though most of those parts. I would have loved the book were it not for the romance. It would've made the characters a lot more interesting.
This is definitely not a character driven novel though. The characters are a little flat, even the MC, but they're developed enough to not ruin the story.
Still, aside from that, I really did enjoy the character's growing magical abilities and I'd be interested in reading the next book, if only to get closure on knowing what happens next. It was compelling in that way. Younger readers, or people who like that kind of romance, would enjoy this book.
I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2023
I had fun listening to this one and I’m going to keep reading the series. Something that bothered me was that she’s so good at using her magic with absolutely no practice. There should have been more build ups to that. A little insta lovey but I didn’t mind. One thing I really love is that this is TRUE YA. The characters voices are very young and they’re very reactive and quick to act… true teenagers. I appreciate this as a big YA lover!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2023
I bought this trilogy on a Black Friday sale. I thought what the heck, if I don't like it, I didn't spend that much. Boy, am I so glad I did! I really enjoyed this first book a lot. I love academy books, and Ava doesn't disappoint. She had me in shock numerous times, with all the twists and turns that are in this book. It is so good and very well written. I highly recommend this book.
October 31, 2018
One of the main characters is a seventeen year old girl called Kaelan Younger, who lives on the outskirts of their village with her mother and grandmother, in the Alveria area. They have constantly had to move throughout her short life and she has never known who her father was. Her mother is a healer and caught an illness whilst treating others. She has been ill for over a year and could reach the end stage of coma and weeks later, death, unless Kaelan can get an unexpected person to come and help heal her.
Kaelan is outspoken and is loyal to the crown, which now is something many are no longer happy with. Alveria has human and dragon nobles dividing the kingdom. Dragons are getting scarce and dragon eggs haven’t hatched in decades. There are more dragon tamers than actual dragons. Kaelan’s family are healers and she is being trained up by her mother and grandmother, but they also have a touch of magic in their healing powers and this is what leads to them having to move when people become suspicious.
The magic of the dragons and their high position in society and elite status, leaves the normal, hard-working commoners, with no way to get payback if a dragon kills all their animals or causes damage, and with a lot of resentment. Laelan has a book about dragons and although never having seen one, she has a fascination about them and wants to know more. An event in the local market, causes her mother to reveal who her father was and leads Kaelan to be sent to Alveria Academy to be trained as a tamer (for a dragon). An unusual career for a peasant girl like her. But her reasons are more personal than that.
She meets a young man, Lasaro, who she later finds out is a prince of Alveria. He has managed to get a placement to prove to his mother that he can be the man his kingdom needs, yet has yet to manage to transform into his dragon form – far later than is the norm by some years. This does happen occasionally, but he can never lead if he cannot control his dragon form. She gets to know him on their last days traveling to the Academy, yet how will he treat her once among his peers?
Kaelan has to face both her past and her possible future as matters escalate and not everything goes as she thought. She has feelings for Lasaro, but doesn’t know if these are reciprocated in kind, as one moment he is the boy she met and the next he is a prince. She has to overcome the prejudices of both the Academy masters and the other students, as well as the local inhabitants who hae lost faith in the dragons and royal family.
There are more problems coming to face Kaelan and Lasaro, some from outside and some from inside the Academy. Both will have to work on their link, between tamer and dragon, and keep personal feelings out of it. When secrets come out this can break all trust previously gained and someone is working on destroying their link. The future for all dragons is in danger and leads straight into book two, The Dragon Sickness. Kaelan, on taking on the role of tamer, has now sworn her loyalty to dragons.
A great start to a series and I loved reading about Kaelan’s journey from trainee healer to dragon tamer and the obstacles she has to overcome on her path there. Lasaro makes a perfect foil to her character in numerous ways. They work well together, yet also cause each other the most pain as well. A well developed world setting and interesting background to the world of dragons and humans and their interactions. There are plenty of twists and surprises that keep you rooting for Kaelan, from her simple beginnings, to a role she never expected she could achieve.
Great story telling and a popular genre of dragon lore, explored in a unique manner. I kept reading it in one go, until I finished and now have to get the second book, to explore their story further. The first book is a complete story and ends with good and bad events happening. This is the first book I have from this author and I look forward to reading the next book(s) in the series. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion above.
Kaelan is outspoken and is loyal to the crown, which now is something many are no longer happy with. Alveria has human and dragon nobles dividing the kingdom. Dragons are getting scarce and dragon eggs haven’t hatched in decades. There are more dragon tamers than actual dragons. Kaelan’s family are healers and she is being trained up by her mother and grandmother, but they also have a touch of magic in their healing powers and this is what leads to them having to move when people become suspicious.
The magic of the dragons and their high position in society and elite status, leaves the normal, hard-working commoners, with no way to get payback if a dragon kills all their animals or causes damage, and with a lot of resentment. Laelan has a book about dragons and although never having seen one, she has a fascination about them and wants to know more. An event in the local market, causes her mother to reveal who her father was and leads Kaelan to be sent to Alveria Academy to be trained as a tamer (for a dragon). An unusual career for a peasant girl like her. But her reasons are more personal than that.
She meets a young man, Lasaro, who she later finds out is a prince of Alveria. He has managed to get a placement to prove to his mother that he can be the man his kingdom needs, yet has yet to manage to transform into his dragon form – far later than is the norm by some years. This does happen occasionally, but he can never lead if he cannot control his dragon form. She gets to know him on their last days traveling to the Academy, yet how will he treat her once among his peers?
Kaelan has to face both her past and her possible future as matters escalate and not everything goes as she thought. She has feelings for Lasaro, but doesn’t know if these are reciprocated in kind, as one moment he is the boy she met and the next he is a prince. She has to overcome the prejudices of both the Academy masters and the other students, as well as the local inhabitants who hae lost faith in the dragons and royal family.
There are more problems coming to face Kaelan and Lasaro, some from outside and some from inside the Academy. Both will have to work on their link, between tamer and dragon, and keep personal feelings out of it. When secrets come out this can break all trust previously gained and someone is working on destroying their link. The future for all dragons is in danger and leads straight into book two, The Dragon Sickness. Kaelan, on taking on the role of tamer, has now sworn her loyalty to dragons.
A great start to a series and I loved reading about Kaelan’s journey from trainee healer to dragon tamer and the obstacles she has to overcome on her path there. Lasaro makes a perfect foil to her character in numerous ways. They work well together, yet also cause each other the most pain as well. A well developed world setting and interesting background to the world of dragons and humans and their interactions. There are plenty of twists and surprises that keep you rooting for Kaelan, from her simple beginnings, to a role she never expected she could achieve.
Great story telling and a popular genre of dragon lore, explored in a unique manner. I kept reading it in one go, until I finished and now have to get the second book, to explore their story further. The first book is a complete story and ends with good and bad events happening. This is the first book I have from this author and I look forward to reading the next book(s) in the series. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion above.
August 12, 2020
Fesselnde Hörbuch-Stunden
Klappentext:
Ein geteiltes Königreich kann nicht überleben. Für die, die inmitten dieses Kampfes gefangen sind, bedeutet es den Tod.
Seit Jahrhunderten lebten Menschen und Drachen in Alveria Seite an Seite, verbunden durch ihre gegenseitige Sorge. Aber das war einmal. Nach Jahrzehnten ohne lebensfähige Eier übertrifft die Zahl der Menschen die der Drachen bei weitem und für das Überleben der Arten sieht es düster aus. Die Aussichten für die gewöhnlichen Menschen sind wenig besser, da Drachenschurken Dörfer überfallen und quälen. Doch sieht es für die Zähmer viel schlechter aus, die geschlagen und gequält werden, nur weil sie den edlen Drachen dienen.
Aber es ist auch für die siebzehnjährige Kaelan Younger nicht einfacher, auf der untersten Stufe der Gesellschaft von Alveria das Leben zu fristen. Noch härter wird es, da ihre Treue zur Drachenkrone kein Geheimnis ist. Aber als ihre sterbenskranke Mutter ihr ein schreckliches Geheimnis über ihre Herkunft enthüllt, wird Kaelan in eine Welt versetzt, auf die sie schlecht vorbereitet ist. Dort, wo Menschen und Drachen gleichermaßen auf die Probe gestellt werden, einem neuen Leben gegenübertretend, muss Kaelan sich nicht nur mit ihrer Vergangenheit versöhnen, sondern sich auch auf die Zukunft einlassen, die vor ihr liegt. Als ihre Aufgaben als Zähmerin in der Akademie mit ihren Gefühlen für einen mächtigen Drachengestaltwandler kollidieren, wird es sie alle Kraft kosten, um sich auf die Gefahr vorzubereiten, die sie beide bedroht. Das Schicksal der Drachen, denen zu dienen sie geschworen hat, liegt in ihren Händen.
Jetzt ist Kaelan keine Außenseiterin mehr.Sie ist der Feind!
Das Cover der Klappentext haben mich neugierig auf dieses Hörbuch gemacht. Dies ist der erste Teil einer Trilogie aus der Feder von Ava Richardson.
Was soll ich schreiben,meine Erwartungen wurden vollkommen erfüllt.
Mit Ben Bela Böhm,der dieses Hörbuch intoniert,hat der Relay Publishing Verlag einen ausgezeichneten Sprecher gefunden.Die fantastische Geschichte um die 17-jährige Kaelan ,die ihre Berufung zur Drachenzähmerin sieht.Doch bis dorthin ist es ein weiter und steiniger Weg.Auch wenn Parallelen zu anderen Fantasy -Romanen bestehen,ist es eine eigenständige Geschichte.
Sie ist fesselnd und die 10 Hörbuch-Stunden sind wie im Flug vergangen.
Ich habe mich sehr gut unterhalten gefühlt und gerne mehr von dieser Autorin und diesem Hörbuch-Sprecher.
Fazit:Für Drachen-Fans ein absolutes Highlight.
Klappentext:
Ein geteiltes Königreich kann nicht überleben. Für die, die inmitten dieses Kampfes gefangen sind, bedeutet es den Tod.
Seit Jahrhunderten lebten Menschen und Drachen in Alveria Seite an Seite, verbunden durch ihre gegenseitige Sorge. Aber das war einmal. Nach Jahrzehnten ohne lebensfähige Eier übertrifft die Zahl der Menschen die der Drachen bei weitem und für das Überleben der Arten sieht es düster aus. Die Aussichten für die gewöhnlichen Menschen sind wenig besser, da Drachenschurken Dörfer überfallen und quälen. Doch sieht es für die Zähmer viel schlechter aus, die geschlagen und gequält werden, nur weil sie den edlen Drachen dienen.
Aber es ist auch für die siebzehnjährige Kaelan Younger nicht einfacher, auf der untersten Stufe der Gesellschaft von Alveria das Leben zu fristen. Noch härter wird es, da ihre Treue zur Drachenkrone kein Geheimnis ist. Aber als ihre sterbenskranke Mutter ihr ein schreckliches Geheimnis über ihre Herkunft enthüllt, wird Kaelan in eine Welt versetzt, auf die sie schlecht vorbereitet ist. Dort, wo Menschen und Drachen gleichermaßen auf die Probe gestellt werden, einem neuen Leben gegenübertretend, muss Kaelan sich nicht nur mit ihrer Vergangenheit versöhnen, sondern sich auch auf die Zukunft einlassen, die vor ihr liegt. Als ihre Aufgaben als Zähmerin in der Akademie mit ihren Gefühlen für einen mächtigen Drachengestaltwandler kollidieren, wird es sie alle Kraft kosten, um sich auf die Gefahr vorzubereiten, die sie beide bedroht. Das Schicksal der Drachen, denen zu dienen sie geschworen hat, liegt in ihren Händen.
Jetzt ist Kaelan keine Außenseiterin mehr.Sie ist der Feind!
Das Cover der Klappentext haben mich neugierig auf dieses Hörbuch gemacht. Dies ist der erste Teil einer Trilogie aus der Feder von Ava Richardson.
Was soll ich schreiben,meine Erwartungen wurden vollkommen erfüllt.
Mit Ben Bela Böhm,der dieses Hörbuch intoniert,hat der Relay Publishing Verlag einen ausgezeichneten Sprecher gefunden.Die fantastische Geschichte um die 17-jährige Kaelan ,die ihre Berufung zur Drachenzähmerin sieht.Doch bis dorthin ist es ein weiter und steiniger Weg.Auch wenn Parallelen zu anderen Fantasy -Romanen bestehen,ist es eine eigenständige Geschichte.
Sie ist fesselnd und die 10 Hörbuch-Stunden sind wie im Flug vergangen.
Ich habe mich sehr gut unterhalten gefühlt und gerne mehr von dieser Autorin und diesem Hörbuch-Sprecher.
Fazit:Für Drachen-Fans ein absolutes Highlight.
June 14, 2021
3.5
Reader thoughts: This book only had a couple of problems, and most of it was excellent.
Problem #1, the adults were stubbornly stupid about one idea: letting a commoner into the Akademy. They wouldn't let her in, they wouldn't let her train, and they wouldn't acknowledge her skills. Maybe I've lived in the USA too long to understand deep seated beliefs about caste systems, but this was ridiculous. Also, there had been commoner tamers before who were allowed to train. Why was Kaelan treated so differently?
(And if there IS such a strong caste system, why doesn't the word of a prince have more clout?)
Problem #2, Kaelan has too many abilities. I get that her dad is a mighty dragon, and she is super special and can do anything without trying, but I don't like that trope. I want to see her practicing her healing and her bond strengthening and her abilities. No, we see her sneaking away to spend time with Lasaro and helping him.
Problem #3 is more of a preference. The book spent too much time on romance and not enough time on magic systems or the made up fantasy culture. I wanted to know WHY dragons could have whatever they wanted without paying for it. I wanted to know how big the country was, how many countries there are, why the other country wants to invade, etc. Do they have major holidays? What good do the dragons do when there is no war? All these questions were left unexplained. When I read epic fantasy about a made up world, show it to me!
Richardson made her character unique with her reactions. When Kaelan sees a dragon ready to attack and eat her, her first thought is of his floppy ears and how much he reminds her of a bunny she used to have. When one of the teachers sternly yells at her, Kaelan thinks how much she feels like she is at home, since her grandma always yelled at her the same way.
When characters react just like everyone else, it's not interesting. In this book, Richardson built Kalen into a more interesting character by giving her unusually positive reactions to adverse situations.
Reader thoughts: This book only had a couple of problems, and most of it was excellent.
Problem #1, the adults were stubbornly stupid about one idea: letting a commoner into the Akademy. They wouldn't let her in, they wouldn't let her train, and they wouldn't acknowledge her skills. Maybe I've lived in the USA too long to understand deep seated beliefs about caste systems, but this was ridiculous. Also, there had been commoner tamers before who were allowed to train. Why was Kaelan treated so differently?
(And if there IS such a strong caste system, why doesn't the word of a prince have more clout?)
Problem #2, Kaelan has too many abilities. I get that her dad is a mighty dragon, and she is super special and can do anything without trying, but I don't like that trope. I want to see her practicing her healing and her bond strengthening and her abilities. No, we see her sneaking away to spend time with Lasaro and helping him.
Problem #3 is more of a preference. The book spent too much time on romance and not enough time on magic systems or the made up fantasy culture. I wanted to know WHY dragons could have whatever they wanted without paying for it. I wanted to know how big the country was, how many countries there are, why the other country wants to invade, etc. Do they have major holidays? What good do the dragons do when there is no war? All these questions were left unexplained. When I read epic fantasy about a made up world, show it to me!
Richardson made her character unique with her reactions. When Kaelan sees a dragon ready to attack and eat her, her first thought is of his floppy ears and how much he reminds her of a bunny she used to have. When one of the teachers sternly yells at her, Kaelan thinks how much she feels like she is at home, since her grandma always yelled at her the same way.
When characters react just like everyone else, it's not interesting. In this book, Richardson built Kalen into a more interesting character by giving her unusually positive reactions to adverse situations.
November 21, 2018
This book surprised me! That's a pretty big deal, especially in a YA novel. Stories with dragons really seem to go one of two ways, but not this book. This book went it's own way.
1. Loved our heroine. She's determined, she's brave, and she's smart. There was a part in the middle of the book where she got kind of stuck doing nothing, which was frustrating, but she made up for it in the end. The dialogue was good, even though the story was lacking in side characters. The story felt a little too to-the-point without some of the character-building that's enjoyable in a story. She should have interacted with more people to add some interest.
2. Love the boy. There's always a boy, and we're always Supposed to love him, but frequently for me he falls short. This boy is adorable, he matches the story perfectly. He's a good character in his own right.
3. World-building. While the world-building was pretty basic, it was also Unique! I treasure a unique world. Dragons who are also humans who also rule the land. And the non-dragon humans are mad about it. And there's dragon school. Love it. It took some familiar elements and mixed them in new ways. I like to be curious about what will happen instead of predicting it from the first page. Everything did hurry on to the end (the book felt short). Some more description and dialogue would have helped.
Definitely made for a younger audience, with that simplicity and goodhearted feeling you often find in J-Fic novels. That's not a bad thing though, because I liked it. It was magical. A little like the early Harry Potter books, which are cute and happy and magical.
1. Loved our heroine. She's determined, she's brave, and she's smart. There was a part in the middle of the book where she got kind of stuck doing nothing, which was frustrating, but she made up for it in the end. The dialogue was good, even though the story was lacking in side characters. The story felt a little too to-the-point without some of the character-building that's enjoyable in a story. She should have interacted with more people to add some interest.
2. Love the boy. There's always a boy, and we're always Supposed to love him, but frequently for me he falls short. This boy is adorable, he matches the story perfectly. He's a good character in his own right.
3. World-building. While the world-building was pretty basic, it was also Unique! I treasure a unique world. Dragons who are also humans who also rule the land. And the non-dragon humans are mad about it. And there's dragon school. Love it. It took some familiar elements and mixed them in new ways. I like to be curious about what will happen instead of predicting it from the first page. Everything did hurry on to the end (the book felt short). Some more description and dialogue would have helped.
Definitely made for a younger audience, with that simplicity and goodhearted feeling you often find in J-Fic novels. That's not a bad thing though, because I liked it. It was magical. A little like the early Harry Potter books, which are cute and happy and magical.
October 4, 2024
There is never a shortage of dragons in these stories that's for sure. A blend of good ones & bad ones. I am always sucked in by chapter 2. The best part is the dragon dialogue. They have great personalities and are usually quite funny.
Kaelan Younger has a rough life. She is 17 years old and lives on the outskirts of a village in the kingdom of Alveria. She lives with her mother and Grand mother. They struggle just to eat & survive. Life in the kingdom is not fun. The ability of bonding between humans and dragons isn't as common as it used to be. The dragon eggs are having a hard time hatching. Kaelen has trouble with bullies and in one paticular incident she looses it and out right roars. She then flees and is visibly shaken. Her goods were destroyed and now she couldn't get her mothers medicine. She had fallen ill with a wasting sickness. And now after her roaring she feared they would have to move again. To her surprise she was given an opportunity to attend Alveria Akademy. It was under strange circumstances but at the time she didn't have all the facilities ts yet. When sh9e learned who her father was that's when the pieces came together. When she arrived at the academy, sh9e soon learned life there wasn't going to be much better. She was frowned upon for being a peasant. The only good thing was that she had already found a dragon kind of by accident. Now she had to work extra hard for acceptance and to become her dragons tamer. Then she learned he was also a prince.
A story full of hardship, an unbreakable able bond, cruel behavior and challenges.
Kaelan Younger has a rough life. She is 17 years old and lives on the outskirts of a village in the kingdom of Alveria. She lives with her mother and Grand mother. They struggle just to eat & survive. Life in the kingdom is not fun. The ability of bonding between humans and dragons isn't as common as it used to be. The dragon eggs are having a hard time hatching. Kaelen has trouble with bullies and in one paticular incident she looses it and out right roars. She then flees and is visibly shaken. Her goods were destroyed and now she couldn't get her mothers medicine. She had fallen ill with a wasting sickness. And now after her roaring she feared they would have to move again. To her surprise she was given an opportunity to attend Alveria Akademy. It was under strange circumstances but at the time she didn't have all the facilities ts yet. When sh9e learned who her father was that's when the pieces came together. When she arrived at the academy, sh9e soon learned life there wasn't going to be much better. She was frowned upon for being a peasant. The only good thing was that she had already found a dragon kind of by accident. Now she had to work extra hard for acceptance and to become her dragons tamer. Then she learned he was also a prince.
A story full of hardship, an unbreakable able bond, cruel behavior and challenges.
November 3, 2018
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher. Thank you!
This novel was an amazing read! I could not put it down! It contains dragons, magic, romance, betrayal, and adventure all together. Kaelan Younger is a stubborn young woman, who helps to heal others, like her mother, is loyal to the crown, and can suddenly roar? Kaelan learns the truth of her heritage as her mother is dying from sickness and the only way she can be healed is by a dragon. With a letter given to her by her mother, she travels to the Akademy, where she plans to become a dragon tamer. Along the way, she is attacked and saved by Lasaro, the Prince of Alveria, who is trying to become the chosen heir, but has not yet transformed into a dragon until he sees Kaelen in trouble. Lasaro knows Kaelen is to be his dragon tamer and they strike a bargain. However, Kaelen is a peasant and is not readily accepted by the Akademy to train as a dragon tamer. We see the relationship develop between Lasaro and Kaelen, but he betrays her with his words when confronted in various situations due to in part his selfishness and the love he has for her. Kaelen falls in love with Lasaro as well, but there are rules that must be followed. Lasaro wants to change some of those rules, since it has caused much dissension among the people of his kingdom and the dragons. However, the enemy has found a way to cause trouble within the kingdom. Lasaro and Kaelen need to find a way to stop the enemy before the kingdom falls.
This novel was an amazing read! I could not put it down! It contains dragons, magic, romance, betrayal, and adventure all together. Kaelan Younger is a stubborn young woman, who helps to heal others, like her mother, is loyal to the crown, and can suddenly roar? Kaelan learns the truth of her heritage as her mother is dying from sickness and the only way she can be healed is by a dragon. With a letter given to her by her mother, she travels to the Akademy, where she plans to become a dragon tamer. Along the way, she is attacked and saved by Lasaro, the Prince of Alveria, who is trying to become the chosen heir, but has not yet transformed into a dragon until he sees Kaelen in trouble. Lasaro knows Kaelen is to be his dragon tamer and they strike a bargain. However, Kaelen is a peasant and is not readily accepted by the Akademy to train as a dragon tamer. We see the relationship develop between Lasaro and Kaelen, but he betrays her with his words when confronted in various situations due to in part his selfishness and the love he has for her. Kaelen falls in love with Lasaro as well, but there are rules that must be followed. Lasaro wants to change some of those rules, since it has caused much dissension among the people of his kingdom and the dragons. However, the enemy has found a way to cause trouble within the kingdom. Lasaro and Kaelen need to find a way to stop the enemy before the kingdom falls.
September 5, 2019
She has to be my tamer, I finally shifted for the first time upon seeing her!
Totally love this book. Girl is close to becoming a woman and has known the love of her mother and grandmother but other has always been the outcast of anywhere they live. Kaelan is found to get upset easily and has a temper that she has a hard time controlling. When she is so upset that she roars her mother finally tells her who her father is. Because of who he is she is told to go to the Ackedemy so that she can become a dragon tamer.
Prince Lasaro is a dragon blooded royal. His country can only be ruled by one that can transform into a dragon and he is beyond the age that normally happens. He knows his older siblings are unfit to rule and makes a deal with his mother, the queen, that he will spend a year at the Ackedemy and learn to turn into a dragon and obtain a tamer so that he can be named the heir to the throne.
This is a must read to find out how Kaelan and Lasaro meet, what happens when they do, and why the masters of the Ackedemy keep them apart.
I am excited for the next book in the series and can't wait to find out what other trials the character must endure.
Totally love this book. Girl is close to becoming a woman and has known the love of her mother and grandmother but other has always been the outcast of anywhere they live. Kaelan is found to get upset easily and has a temper that she has a hard time controlling. When she is so upset that she roars her mother finally tells her who her father is. Because of who he is she is told to go to the Ackedemy so that she can become a dragon tamer.
Prince Lasaro is a dragon blooded royal. His country can only be ruled by one that can transform into a dragon and he is beyond the age that normally happens. He knows his older siblings are unfit to rule and makes a deal with his mother, the queen, that he will spend a year at the Ackedemy and learn to turn into a dragon and obtain a tamer so that he can be named the heir to the throne.
This is a must read to find out how Kaelan and Lasaro meet, what happens when they do, and why the masters of the Ackedemy keep them apart.
I am excited for the next book in the series and can't wait to find out what other trials the character must endure.
April 7, 2022
Instagram has been persistently pushing this book my way for months now. When I read the blurb, I knew it would be something I’d be interested in, but it wasn’t on the top of my list to pick up. After months of having this book saved on my tbr list, I finally gave it a shot and I’m so glad that I did. I didn’t realize how much I was craving a good dragon book and this one was exactly what I needed.
The main characters chemistry was amazing. I feel in love with them and was rooting for them at every turn. This story is also in both of their point of views, but not like most books I’ve been reading recently. The majority of the book is in Kaelan’s point of view, but here and there you’ll get a glimpse of what’s going through Lasaro’s mind and how he views things. I actually really enjoyed how the author went about the different point of views, I believe it added to the story rather than taking away from it.
I will admit that this book has its cliche and predictable moments, but it didn’t bore me. I’m still left wondering how exactly the events will play out and I even have some theories that I’m not 100% if they’re going to happen. If you’re looking for a good dragon academy book, I’d highly recommend this one.
The main characters chemistry was amazing. I feel in love with them and was rooting for them at every turn. This story is also in both of their point of views, but not like most books I’ve been reading recently. The majority of the book is in Kaelan’s point of view, but here and there you’ll get a glimpse of what’s going through Lasaro’s mind and how he views things. I actually really enjoyed how the author went about the different point of views, I believe it added to the story rather than taking away from it.
I will admit that this book has its cliche and predictable moments, but it didn’t bore me. I’m still left wondering how exactly the events will play out and I even have some theories that I’m not 100% if they’re going to happen. If you’re looking for a good dragon academy book, I’d highly recommend this one.
August 28, 2019
4 Devilishly Dragon Stars
The Dragon Tamer is the first book in the Alveria Dragon Akademy series by Ava Richardson.
Kaelan Younger was raised thinking she was like any other small village healer, raised to believe she was normal. The truth slams full force into her one day, after roaring out her anger in the town market, she admits her weird and unsettling angry response to her mother who promptly passes out. When her mother finally awakens from her impromptu fainting from both her own shock combined with the illness she carries, she hands her daughter an envelope. An envelope from her father, who happens to be a notorious dragon shifter, alerting her to her own half-blood state. With the knowledge comes the discovery that she must go to the Alveria Dragon Akademy to discover what this means for herself, and track down her own dragon in hopes of saving her mother from her deadly disease.
We embark with her on not only a journey of discovery and mysterious acquaintances, as well as political uprisings and fantastical imagery, but also a tale of love and all it conquers.
The Dragon Tamer is the first book in the Alveria Dragon Akademy series by Ava Richardson.
Kaelan Younger was raised thinking she was like any other small village healer, raised to believe she was normal. The truth slams full force into her one day, after roaring out her anger in the town market, she admits her weird and unsettling angry response to her mother who promptly passes out. When her mother finally awakens from her impromptu fainting from both her own shock combined with the illness she carries, she hands her daughter an envelope. An envelope from her father, who happens to be a notorious dragon shifter, alerting her to her own half-blood state. With the knowledge comes the discovery that she must go to the Alveria Dragon Akademy to discover what this means for herself, and track down her own dragon in hopes of saving her mother from her deadly disease.
We embark with her on not only a journey of discovery and mysterious acquaintances, as well as political uprisings and fantastical imagery, but also a tale of love and all it conquers.
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