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Agents of the Crown #5
Dragon Tear
Now that Jev is no longer obligated to marry a manipulative noblewoman, Zenia can finally pursue a relationship with him. But there’s something else she must deal with first. She’s learned that the magical dragon-tear gem she wears around her neck is linked to a living dragon, one that is being held prisoner and tortured. Zenia owes her life several times over to the creature. She must set aside personal desires and lead a team to the distant and dangerous continent where the dragon is imprisoned. But it took someone—or something—very powerful to capture such a great creature in the first place. Zenia, Jev, and their friends may not have the magic or might necessary to free their scaled ally. If they fail, the dragon will be enslaved forever by a cruel master, and Zenia and Jev may never see their homeland again.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2018
302 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
198 books6,243 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
July 26, 2019
And it eded! I'm sad that it had ended... it was what I needed: light, funny and adventurous!
I loved this series and I'll miss it!
I loved this series and I'll miss it!
November 17, 2020
· Book 1: Eye of Truth ★★★★
· Book 2: Blood Ties ★★★★
· Book 3: Duty Bound ★★★
· Book 4: Elven Fury ★★★★
· Book 2: Blood Ties ★★★★
· Book 3: Duty Bound ★★★
· Book 4: Elven Fury ★★★★
December 10, 2018
Hoping for more in this world
This is the fifth and final book in Lindsay Buroker’s Agents of the Crown fantasy series. I have to say it is a little unexpected that this should be the last book as the previous installments gave me the feeling of a longer series and as a matter of fact the author leaves it open to write more stories in this world if reader demand is there. There are quite a few threads left open and the stories of the supporting characters are left unfinished.
Zenia and Jev both work for a young king as intelligence officers, tasked to defend the kingdom from threats from within and without and in the past the have completed several successful missions. In order to aid her Zenia has received a Dragon Tear from the king, kind of a magical amulet that lets her harness the power of a dragon. During her last mission it is confirmed what Zenia has only assumed: the Dragon Tear is connected to a live dragon that is being kept captive and is being tortured in a far away land. Zenia and Jev get permission from the king to go on a expedition to search for and free the dragon with a small band of friend. The task turns out to be more onerous and difficult than expected and almost fails due to the betrayal of a supposed ally.
Aside from their mission Zenia and Jev also make progress in their relationship which has been hindered by the opposition of Jev’s father, since Jev is a noble and Zenia, despite her previous and current position is but a commoner. But in the end everything turns out well for them and they can finally plan their wedding, so the story arc that was driven by their unconventional courtship is finished.
But as mentioned above, a lot of potential stories about the supporting characters are left untold. We are left to wonder if Cutter the dwarf finally becomes more than an apprentice to Master Grindmor, where the relationship between the boisterous Rhi and the sensitive Hydal goes, whether the young king Targyon will ever see his elven princess again, or whether Lornysh, the dangerous elf will ever find love again and whether Borti’s rat breeding and rat racing business is going to be a success.
I love Lindsay Buroker’s character driven fantasy action adventure stories and can’t get enough of them. Her writing is consistently entertainting and exciting. 4 ½ stars.
This is the fifth and final book in Lindsay Buroker’s Agents of the Crown fantasy series. I have to say it is a little unexpected that this should be the last book as the previous installments gave me the feeling of a longer series and as a matter of fact the author leaves it open to write more stories in this world if reader demand is there. There are quite a few threads left open and the stories of the supporting characters are left unfinished.
Zenia and Jev both work for a young king as intelligence officers, tasked to defend the kingdom from threats from within and without and in the past the have completed several successful missions. In order to aid her Zenia has received a Dragon Tear from the king, kind of a magical amulet that lets her harness the power of a dragon. During her last mission it is confirmed what Zenia has only assumed: the Dragon Tear is connected to a live dragon that is being kept captive and is being tortured in a far away land. Zenia and Jev get permission from the king to go on a expedition to search for and free the dragon with a small band of friend. The task turns out to be more onerous and difficult than expected and almost fails due to the betrayal of a supposed ally.
Aside from their mission Zenia and Jev also make progress in their relationship which has been hindered by the opposition of Jev’s father, since Jev is a noble and Zenia, despite her previous and current position is but a commoner. But in the end everything turns out well for them and they can finally plan their wedding, so the story arc that was driven by their unconventional courtship is finished.
But as mentioned above, a lot of potential stories about the supporting characters are left untold. We are left to wonder if Cutter the dwarf finally becomes more than an apprentice to Master Grindmor, where the relationship between the boisterous Rhi and the sensitive Hydal goes, whether the young king Targyon will ever see his elven princess again, or whether Lornysh, the dangerous elf will ever find love again and whether Borti’s rat breeding and rat racing business is going to be a success.
I love Lindsay Buroker’s character driven fantasy action adventure stories and can’t get enough of them. Her writing is consistently entertainting and exciting. 4 ½ stars.
July 6, 2019
A nice ending to a typical Buroker series. I would have definitely enjoyed more dragon fire then just like one chapter, but can't really complain all that much. I was a tad bit disappointed with the whole romance aspect to be completely honest. I think I was expecting more..oomph? Also, what's with the unicorn? You can't just bring one at the end of the series and not have more powers to discuss!
Overall, I'd still give it a 3 but it didn't charm me as much as some other Buroker books have in the past.
Overall, I'd still give it a 3 but it didn't charm me as much as some other Buroker books have in the past.
December 10, 2018
Lindsay Buroker is pretty much at the top of my list of sci-fi and fantasy authors, whether indie or published by one of the big publishing houses. She’s consistent in putting out stories in various genres from steam punk to fantasy to space opera and even probably the best sci-fi romance (in that its both superb sci-fi and great romance) under her Ruby Lionsdrake pen name. That consistency in producing only the best certainly shines through in her latest series, Agents of the Crown. This is a superb fantasy with a wonderfully written and increasingly complex and exciting storyline. I love how the relationship of the leads, Jev and Zenia, has evolved over the course of the series. She started out an Inquisitor convinces he’d stolen an ancient artifact with the power to start a war, but by this book, Dragon Tear (Book 5), they’re ready for a deep relationship - a relationship put off for what might be their biggest adventure yet, rescuing the imprisoned dragon who is linked to the dragon tear gem that Zenia wears. One heck of a wild thrill ride of an adventure. Superbly written (I feel Ike an “of course” is needed here considering the author’s record), this book is guaranteed enjoyment with only one caveat: while it can be read standalone (and I’d still give it 5 stars as such) its even better if read in order after the other books on the series. Missing out on those other books would be a genuine mistake. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend.
December 11, 2018
This is a review of the series.
I enjoy LIndsay's books. They are contain fantasy, action, mild romance and silly, lightweight dialogue. They aren't for people looking for serious, hardcore fantasy. The worldbuilding is never as in depth as some series. The characters are the main draw. Her females are strong in their own various ways. They contain a ragtag group of seemingly disparate characters that go together well anyway. They provide good escapist reading.
This series is no different. Her humor might not be for everyone so try out a sample. However, I like the silly and sarcastic dialogue and the lack of taking itself too seriously.
I enjoy LIndsay's books. They are contain fantasy, action, mild romance and silly, lightweight dialogue. They aren't for people looking for serious, hardcore fantasy. The worldbuilding is never as in depth as some series. The characters are the main draw. Her females are strong in their own various ways. They contain a ragtag group of seemingly disparate characters that go together well anyway. They provide good escapist reading.
This series is no different. Her humor might not be for everyone so try out a sample. However, I like the silly and sarcastic dialogue and the lack of taking itself too seriously.
July 31, 2020
Since this was the last book, I expected loose ends to be tied up and questions from the previous books to be answered. Such as, why the Orders chose Targyon to be king over everyone else, when he clearly wasn't the first option? Was it for some nefarious reason? I also expected to dive more into the world, including why there is so much contempt between all the species, and how the guilds play a role (because they were talked about a lot in the first couple books but weren't referred to again). Kind of disappointed because the world has potential.
August 24, 2020
I got the #1-5 set very cheap and I still remember how much I like The emperor's edge series, so I shouldn't complain but I was kind of bored reading this series and close to quit and dnf this one. I still think Lindsay Buroker can write something more fun than this series. Maybe it's just me.
May 14, 2022
In this final part of the Agents of the Crown series, Zenia must find out what the origins of her Dragon Tear are, having spoken to the Elvish Princess, who has told her that there is a young Dragon linked to the Dragon Tear and that he is not only being held captive, but is being tortured. Zenia decides hat she has to help her Dragon, given that it has saved her life, and Jev’s, not to mention countless other lives, and it is not acceptable that she remain imprisoned and being tortured. Jev of course doesn’t hesitate in joining Zenia, and to her surprise, she is joined by Cutter as well. Unfortunately, Lornysh can not join them as he is the new Elvish Ambassador to Korvann, having agreed to take on the post at the end of book 4, and now having too many responsibilities to leave. He does however provide the group with many different things, items and advice to guide them on their journey.
Joining the group of course is Rhi and Hydal, Jev’s Zyndar friend, as well as Rhi’s new boyfriend. Also joining the crew are a pair of former Earth Order Monks, having been recently dismissed from that Order. The two, known as Horti and Borti, are hilarious additions to the party, with a range of different unique characteristics that I won’t spoil here.
This is a rather intense and dangerous mission, a lot more serious than what the team has previously been involved in as they head to the land of Izstara, where the Trolls, Orcs and Ogres live, and the addition of Horti and Borti as not only hired muscle, but also as comic relief as a part of the story, makes for a bit of light-hearted fun on an adventure that is full of dark tidings.
Book 5 by far out does the rest of the series with the world building, as the land of Izstara is equally fascinating and terrifying for the crew as they adventure forth to find the imprisoned Dragon. The descriptive work of not just the land itself, which is vastly different to what we have seen in previous books, but the inhabitants is outstanding. There is such a distinct change in the look and feel of everything, a danger in every aspect of where the group move, with both those that live there, the Orcs, Ogres and Trolls, but the land itself, the very creatures that roam the land, all wanting to kill or eat the group.
As they set out on this voyage, there is a mix between an Indiana Jones style feel, and a Jungle Cruise, as the must traverse not only the sea to get to Izstara, but then a dangerous river journey to get near to the Dragons location.
It is a thrilling adventure, full of all sorts of new dangers, something very different to the first four books, making for a really fantastic read.
The character work continues to be exceptional, the growing connection between Zenia and Jev is explored in greater depth in this book, with elements of romance, and some humour as Jev struggles to understand Zenia. Added to that is the budding relationship between Rhi and Hydal, which is just hilarious for the most part with Hydal trying to be a perfect Zyndar gentleman, and Rhi being confused by why a male doesn’t ‘want’ her. This is the final book in the series, and Buroker does a wonderful job of cleverly making sure that the many questions and story lines that have come up about each of the characters, from Lornysh and his past, to Zenia and Jev and everything that is happening with them, to Jev’s cousin’s and other Family members. Each of the different story arcs is nicely wrapped up, so that you are not left wondering about particular things, which is something that I really love about this Author’s writing style.
Overall, this is not just another part in the series, but a thrilling adventure that provides a lot of closure to aspects to various aspects of the series, whilst still leaving it open if Buroker ever wants to return to this Universe to continue writing. This final part is by far the best part in the series, showing off each of the characters and how they have grown from the first book, to now, and just how much they have changed.
If you have read any of the series, then this is a book that should make you hurry up and finish the rest so you can read it, as it is brilliant. If you haven’t read this series, then you are missing out, and if you love a great fantasy, with some exceptional characters, then this is the series for you!!
Joining the group of course is Rhi and Hydal, Jev’s Zyndar friend, as well as Rhi’s new boyfriend. Also joining the crew are a pair of former Earth Order Monks, having been recently dismissed from that Order. The two, known as Horti and Borti, are hilarious additions to the party, with a range of different unique characteristics that I won’t spoil here.
This is a rather intense and dangerous mission, a lot more serious than what the team has previously been involved in as they head to the land of Izstara, where the Trolls, Orcs and Ogres live, and the addition of Horti and Borti as not only hired muscle, but also as comic relief as a part of the story, makes for a bit of light-hearted fun on an adventure that is full of dark tidings.
Book 5 by far out does the rest of the series with the world building, as the land of Izstara is equally fascinating and terrifying for the crew as they adventure forth to find the imprisoned Dragon. The descriptive work of not just the land itself, which is vastly different to what we have seen in previous books, but the inhabitants is outstanding. There is such a distinct change in the look and feel of everything, a danger in every aspect of where the group move, with both those that live there, the Orcs, Ogres and Trolls, but the land itself, the very creatures that roam the land, all wanting to kill or eat the group.
As they set out on this voyage, there is a mix between an Indiana Jones style feel, and a Jungle Cruise, as the must traverse not only the sea to get to Izstara, but then a dangerous river journey to get near to the Dragons location.
It is a thrilling adventure, full of all sorts of new dangers, something very different to the first four books, making for a really fantastic read.
The character work continues to be exceptional, the growing connection between Zenia and Jev is explored in greater depth in this book, with elements of romance, and some humour as Jev struggles to understand Zenia. Added to that is the budding relationship between Rhi and Hydal, which is just hilarious for the most part with Hydal trying to be a perfect Zyndar gentleman, and Rhi being confused by why a male doesn’t ‘want’ her. This is the final book in the series, and Buroker does a wonderful job of cleverly making sure that the many questions and story lines that have come up about each of the characters, from Lornysh and his past, to Zenia and Jev and everything that is happening with them, to Jev’s cousin’s and other Family members. Each of the different story arcs is nicely wrapped up, so that you are not left wondering about particular things, which is something that I really love about this Author’s writing style.
Overall, this is not just another part in the series, but a thrilling adventure that provides a lot of closure to aspects to various aspects of the series, whilst still leaving it open if Buroker ever wants to return to this Universe to continue writing. This final part is by far the best part in the series, showing off each of the characters and how they have grown from the first book, to now, and just how much they have changed.
If you have read any of the series, then this is a book that should make you hurry up and finish the rest so you can read it, as it is brilliant. If you haven’t read this series, then you are missing out, and if you love a great fantasy, with some exceptional characters, then this is the series for you!!
October 19, 2020
2.5
I'm honestly just glad it's over. Zenia and Jev were becoming unbearable. The adventure in this one was really fun but as with every plot in this series, it just wasn't developed enough. I feel very let down because this series had massive potential but just focused too much on the romance.
The premise of this particular story was too much to swallow, there's no way Targyon would let them leave when the country is on the brink of an invasion. What happened to Cutter? He completely disappeared at the end of the book. Why would you leave Lornysh, the most interesting character, behind for 90% of the book?
I just felt like I wanted to get through this as fast as possible so that I could read something, anything else.
I'm honestly just glad it's over. Zenia and Jev were becoming unbearable. The adventure in this one was really fun but as with every plot in this series, it just wasn't developed enough. I feel very let down because this series had massive potential but just focused too much on the romance.
The premise of this particular story was too much to swallow, there's no way Targyon would let them leave when the country is on the brink of an invasion. What happened to Cutter? He completely disappeared at the end of the book. Why would you leave Lornysh, the most interesting character, behind for 90% of the book?
I just felt like I wanted to get through this as fast as possible so that I could read something, anything else.
November 29, 2019
Novel kelima (dan terakhir) dari siri Agents of the Crown, bergenre fantasi+penyiasatan. Ambil masa lama sikit nak habiskan baca buku ni sebab hampir separuh buku ni jalan ceritanya slow dan kurang aksi. Lepas separuh buku baru enjoy baca, dan rasanya puas hati dgn ending siri ni.
Dalam buku kali ni; Jev, Zenia, dan beberapa orang lagi rakan mereka telah berlayar ke Kepulauan Izstara yg dihuni kaum orc untuk menyelamatkan naga yg memberi kuasa kpd permata magis (Dragon Tear) milik Zenia daripada tawanan orc.
Dalam buku kali ni; Jev, Zenia, dan beberapa orang lagi rakan mereka telah berlayar ke Kepulauan Izstara yg dihuni kaum orc untuk menyelamatkan naga yg memberi kuasa kpd permata magis (Dragon Tear) milik Zenia daripada tawanan orc.
December 8, 2018
A good ending
One might even say, a fiery ending. Dragon fire.
In this story Jev and Zenia lead a mission into an orc occupied jungle island to free the dragon linked to Zenia's magical dragon tear jewel.
And there is finally a marriage proposal.
I enjoyed reading it and the previous four books in this series.
One might even say, a fiery ending. Dragon fire.
In this story Jev and Zenia lead a mission into an orc occupied jungle island to free the dragon linked to Zenia's magical dragon tear jewel.
And there is finally a marriage proposal.
I enjoyed reading it and the previous four books in this series.
December 9, 2018
Wonderful
This author has the ability to do fantastic world building without adding 200 pages. I loved this series and would like to see more.
This author has the ability to do fantastic world building without adding 200 pages. I loved this series and would like to see more.
July 1, 2023
Another great book that has everything you would want.
December 9, 2018
A really good read
I have read all of the series and hope there is a couple more books in Lindsays imagination
Such as a wedding etch.
I have read all of the series and hope there is a couple more books in Lindsays imagination
Such as a wedding etch.
December 21, 2022
Enjoyed the book. Liked the characters. An interesting world with a unique collection of transportation, weapons, mysteries and talents. Certain you will like it.
March 7, 2025
This was an entertaining series overall but not my favourite from Buroker.
Read
June 11, 2020DNF
December 26, 2018
3.75 Goodreads; 4 Amazon: a good series finale.
This final volume takes us abroad to the hostile jungles of the south, hostile in terms of both the dangerous wildlife and the inhabitants. Zenia is somewhat at a loss when she realizes that the dragon bound to her dragon tear gem has been so terrorized by its orc captors that it's unable to use its powers against any orcs at all, leaving her/them much less able to protect the friends (and hirelings) who are risking their lives to help her on this mission, which is especially worrisome considering the ominous warning she received from the same mysterious (but apparently accurate) source as before. And will the dragon simply leave if/when they manage to free it?
The journey is not without the typical Buroker leavening of light-hearted scenes and quirky characters, and romance not only for Zenia and Jev, but also for Rhi and her less-bold-than-usual suitor, Jev's ex-army buddy Zyndar Hydal.
They do accomplish their goal, despite more than one source of opposition, but at a hard price. Furthermore, during the conflict, the troll shaman attempting to gain the dragon tear for his own gloatingly tells them that their homeland is at war at that very moment, so they must race home immediately afterwards, where there is a second eventful climax.
I saw the solution to Jev's permission-to-marry-Zenia dilemma coming a mile away, but I still liked their happy ending.
As for proofreading, I only caught one error ("heretofore" for "hereafter"!) and one iffy syntax (re. the object of distaste with the adjective "distasteful").
This final volume takes us abroad to the hostile jungles of the south, hostile in terms of both the dangerous wildlife and the inhabitants. Zenia is somewhat at a loss when she realizes that the dragon bound to her dragon tear gem has been so terrorized by its orc captors that it's unable to use its powers against any orcs at all, leaving her/them much less able to protect the friends (and hirelings) who are risking their lives to help her on this mission, which is especially worrisome considering the ominous warning she received from the same mysterious (but apparently accurate) source as before. And will the dragon simply leave if/when they manage to free it?
The journey is not without the typical Buroker leavening of light-hearted scenes and quirky characters, and romance not only for Zenia and Jev, but also for Rhi and her less-bold-than-usual suitor, Jev's ex-army buddy Zyndar Hydal.
They do accomplish their goal, despite more than one source of opposition, but at a hard price. Furthermore, during the conflict, the troll shaman attempting to gain the dragon tear for his own gloatingly tells them that their homeland is at war at that very moment, so they must race home immediately afterwards, where there is a second eventful climax.
I saw the solution to Jev's permission-to-marry-Zenia dilemma coming a mile away, but I still liked their happy ending.
As for proofreading, I only caught one error ("heretofore" for "hereafter"!) and one iffy syntax (re. the object of distaste with the adjective "distasteful").
December 4, 2020
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Dragon Tear
Subtitle: (Agents of the Crown #5)
Author: Lindsay Buroker
Genre: Fantasy
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 5
Best read after earlier books in series? Yes
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In the fourth book in the series, Zenia was gifted a Dragon Tear which saved her and her friends’ lives many times over. She has now learned this Dragon Tear is actually linked to a real-life dragon who is kept captive. Together with Jev, who is now free to marry who he wishes, she decides to search for this Dragon and set it free to repay it for its help. Will they succeed?
What I liked about the book:
I loved this book as much as the other three and just couldn’t stop reading. I read all books in the series in a matter of two to three weeks in February 2020.
What I didn’t like about the book:
There was nothing I disliked about the book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed all the suspense and action within the book with the hint of romance.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The end. I wanted to read more and find out what happened next. This is most likely what led me to buy the next book in the series immediately after reading this one.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written more books in this series and I’m definitely a fan.
What books could this be compared to and why?
The book is similar to the first in the series. It uses magic, suspense, mystery and detective skills. Definitely a winner.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like mystery and fantasy with a bit of magic thrown in, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
Now that Jev is no longer obligated to marry a manipulative noblewoman, Zenia can finally pursue a relationship with him. But there’s something else she must deal with first. She’s learned that the magical dragon-tear gem she wears around her neck is linked to a living dragon, one that is being held prisoner and tortured.
Zenia owes her life several times over to the creature. She must set aside personal desires and lead a team to the distant and dangerous continent where the dragon is imprisoned.
But it took someone—or something—very powerful to capture such a great creature in the first place. Zenia, Jev, and their friends may not have the magic or might necessary to free their scaled ally. If they fail, the dragon will be enslaved forever by a cruel master, and Zenia and Jev may never see their homeland again.
About the Author:
I'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Dragon Tear
Subtitle: (Agents of the Crown #5)
Author: Lindsay Buroker
Genre: Fantasy
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 5
Best read after earlier books in series? Yes
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In the fourth book in the series, Zenia was gifted a Dragon Tear which saved her and her friends’ lives many times over. She has now learned this Dragon Tear is actually linked to a real-life dragon who is kept captive. Together with Jev, who is now free to marry who he wishes, she decides to search for this Dragon and set it free to repay it for its help. Will they succeed?
What I liked about the book:
I loved this book as much as the other three and just couldn’t stop reading. I read all books in the series in a matter of two to three weeks in February 2020.
What I didn’t like about the book:
There was nothing I disliked about the book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed all the suspense and action within the book with the hint of romance.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The end. I wanted to read more and find out what happened next. This is most likely what led me to buy the next book in the series immediately after reading this one.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written more books in this series and I’m definitely a fan.
What books could this be compared to and why?
The book is similar to the first in the series. It uses magic, suspense, mystery and detective skills. Definitely a winner.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like mystery and fantasy with a bit of magic thrown in, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
Now that Jev is no longer obligated to marry a manipulative noblewoman, Zenia can finally pursue a relationship with him. But there’s something else she must deal with first. She’s learned that the magical dragon-tear gem she wears around her neck is linked to a living dragon, one that is being held prisoner and tortured.
Zenia owes her life several times over to the creature. She must set aside personal desires and lead a team to the distant and dangerous continent where the dragon is imprisoned.
But it took someone—or something—very powerful to capture such a great creature in the first place. Zenia, Jev, and their friends may not have the magic or might necessary to free their scaled ally. If they fail, the dragon will be enslaved forever by a cruel master, and Zenia and Jev may never see their homeland again.
About the Author:
I'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
June 10, 2020
I knew from the start that this wouldn't be one of my favourite series by Lindsay Buroker and I am honestly not sure what gave me that (correct) impression. The blurb perhaps? I actually actively avoided reading this series for a long while, until quarantine made me desperate for a new foray into an exciting world designed by Missus Buroker. To be fair, this book was written with her usual style and spunk. The characters were fun (with a few refreshing hints of LGBTQ representation), the world building was interesting (if not as fully realized as I would have liked) and the plot was fast paced. There was also some of Buroker's trademark banter, although not as much as I was hoping for.
For some reason though, despite all of the good points, this series felt slightly... forced? It's hard to describe. It felt a little bit like Buroker was checking off a laundry list of what should happen in fantasy series.
Like....
Book 1: Love interests meet and gang assembles.
Book 2: Save the king and discover enemies.
Book 3: Save dwarf friend and city.
Book 4: Save elf friend and city.
Book 5: Complete improbable dragon rescue and get love interests to marry.
Is it just me?
I don't know. It doesn't really matter in the long run. The books were pleasantly diverting and I am still a big Lindsey Buroker fan so.... *shrugs*.
For some reason though, despite all of the good points, this series felt slightly... forced? It's hard to describe. It felt a little bit like Buroker was checking off a laundry list of what should happen in fantasy series.
Like....
Book 1: Love interests meet and gang assembles.
Book 2: Save the king and discover enemies.
Book 3: Save dwarf friend and city.
Book 4: Save elf friend and city.
Book 5: Complete improbable dragon rescue and get love interests to marry.
Is it just me?
I don't know. It doesn't really matter in the long run. The books were pleasantly diverting and I am still a big Lindsey Buroker fan so.... *shrugs*.
May 7, 2019
Yessss. The secrets behind the dragon tear have been revealed (mostly) and now Zenia is determined to do the right thing and free the dragon being held captive. Her quest leads her away from her home and into the wilds of a pretty inhospitable land. And that's even without the bad guys who want her dragon tear for themselves.
To say their journey is fraught with peril (magical monsters, betrayal, handsy ogresses) might be understating it. But Zenia is determined to do what they can to free the dragon and Jev is equally as determined to stand by Zenia through thick and thin.
There's plenty of resolution to the varies plot threads that had been laid out in previous books. And, spoiler, Zenia and Jev get their happily ever after, which they rightfully deserve after battling the invading hordes and whatnot. The king is finally getting a little respect. Rhi might have found someone who does more than just scratches an itch.
Danger, dragons, and intrigue. Just the thing to spice up a person's day. (And since I don't think I mentioned it before, I really dig these covers. They're purty. I like.)
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
To say their journey is fraught with peril (magical monsters, betrayal, handsy ogresses) might be understating it. But Zenia is determined to do what they can to free the dragon and Jev is equally as determined to stand by Zenia through thick and thin.
There's plenty of resolution to the varies plot threads that had been laid out in previous books. And, spoiler, Zenia and Jev get their happily ever after, which they rightfully deserve after battling the invading hordes and whatnot. The king is finally getting a little respect. Rhi might have found someone who does more than just scratches an itch.
Danger, dragons, and intrigue. Just the thing to spice up a person's day. (And since I don't think I mentioned it before, I really dig these covers. They're purty. I like.)
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
June 8, 2021
It's the end of the series. I would like to start by saying I did enjoy this series.
However, for some reason I didn't like this book as much as the others. Possibly because it lacked my favourite elf's presence for the majority of the book.
Also Jev's and Zenia's relationship problems was getting very repetitive.
I'm a little disappointed that we never find out if Cutter and Master Grindmor get together, although its implied. Also I feel Lornysh is stuck in a job he doesn't want at the end. Which seems a harsh fate after all he's been through I hoped he'd get a better ending.
The 2 ex monk brothers just reminded me of Fred and George from Harry Potter, especially when one dies 😔 and I didn't really understand why they had been added in for this one book 🤔
I did enjoy the dragon and her personality. The journey to rescue her just seemed to be lacking something 🤷♀️. It didn't keep me as hooked as the other books in this series.
Overall, I enjoyed the series but probably won't be rereading. I will say that the author is very good at world building and I truly enjoyed the magical world she created.
However, for some reason I didn't like this book as much as the others. Possibly because it lacked my favourite elf's presence for the majority of the book.
Also Jev's and Zenia's relationship problems was getting very repetitive.
I'm a little disappointed that we never find out if Cutter and Master Grindmor get together, although its implied. Also I feel Lornysh is stuck in a job he doesn't want at the end. Which seems a harsh fate after all he's been through I hoped he'd get a better ending.
The 2 ex monk brothers just reminded me of Fred and George from Harry Potter, especially when one dies 😔 and I didn't really understand why they had been added in for this one book 🤔
I did enjoy the dragon and her personality. The journey to rescue her just seemed to be lacking something 🤷♀️. It didn't keep me as hooked as the other books in this series.
Overall, I enjoyed the series but probably won't be rereading. I will say that the author is very good at world building and I truly enjoyed the magical world she created.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2023
Dragon Tear has been a total surprise what with the number of fabled creatures that made an appearance. Like a manticore. And a unicorn..Or a hydra or two. Not to mention orcs, ogres and trolls besides the dwarves and elves we got to know throughout the previous books in this series.
But this amulet wears an engra
Now, that brings us to the crux of the plot of Dragon Tear. A dragon tear is a sort of magical amulet that the king gave to Zenia shortly after assuming the position of .Agent of the Crown. This one is engraved with a dragon figure on it and magic wise a rather powerful magical item.
The strange thing is, this dragon tear seems to be sentient. Now, no dragon tear has ever been known to be sentient, though magical. This one is not simply a magical object. Zenia somehow even formed a bond with it.
Then another strange thing happened. She discovered that there really is a living dragon out there, held captive and which is being tortured by trolls.
Which exactly where a new adventure started featuring those fabled creatures as part of a very interesting, eye popping sortiè into a wilderness of a strange country.
Enjoy.
But this amulet wears an engra
Now, that brings us to the crux of the plot of Dragon Tear. A dragon tear is a sort of magical amulet that the king gave to Zenia shortly after assuming the position of .Agent of the Crown. This one is engraved with a dragon figure on it and magic wise a rather powerful magical item.
The strange thing is, this dragon tear seems to be sentient. Now, no dragon tear has ever been known to be sentient, though magical. This one is not simply a magical object. Zenia somehow even formed a bond with it.
Then another strange thing happened. She discovered that there really is a living dragon out there, held captive and which is being tortured by trolls.
Which exactly where a new adventure started featuring those fabled creatures as part of a very interesting, eye popping sortiè into a wilderness of a strange country.
Enjoy.
January 25, 2024
It was nice to get to the end of this and finally have what was obviously a number of major plot points wrapped up - but I think I've done my dash with Buroker. These books have all been formulaic, almost as if plot and characters have been pulled from cliched trope hats: "I'll take... two main characters, one will be - oh, the rich heir, and the other will be... An unacknowledged bastard of a noble... they'll fall in love but can't marry..." etc. While tropes are tropes because we like to read and re-read the same things, this wasn't the best iteration, and far from the most imaginative.
So why rate it 4 stars? As I've said (multiple times now), these books are so easy to read. They're like popcorn, or candyfloss. There's no depth, but you don't eat popcorn and candyfloss because you're hungry - you eat them because you're bored, or you want a treat, or you just feel like it, and these books fit that bill. They're an escape. The world building and character development is sufficient - but not great, and I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes - but it met my needs for a summer sprint while my attention is divided.
So why rate it 4 stars? As I've said (multiple times now), these books are so easy to read. They're like popcorn, or candyfloss. There's no depth, but you don't eat popcorn and candyfloss because you're hungry - you eat them because you're bored, or you want a treat, or you just feel like it, and these books fit that bill. They're an escape. The world building and character development is sufficient - but not great, and I spent a lot of time rolling my eyes - but it met my needs for a summer sprint while my attention is divided.
December 11, 2018
Dragon Tear was awesome I loved how the story develops and how the journey happens and HOW EVERYONE even if they didn't show it ate their words of Zenia and she and Jev had something they wanted, but I don't think this story is done there is to much-left wide open without and end like what is Zenia going to do with what Targyon gave her what her wedding day is going to be like. What happens to Rhi, Hydal, Sevy, Wyleria, Lornysh, Boris and Ressa and Cutter. I think we need to know,
This can't possibly be the last book there's more to Zenia and Jev's story I loved how the dragon came in the story but there should be more to her story too and all their friends should have their own book our at least get their stories resolved with Zenia and Jev helping along the way. I think this story has too much potential for this to be the last book I don't think the characters have found there ending.
This can't possibly be the last book there's more to Zenia and Jev's story I loved how the dragon came in the story but there should be more to her story too and all their friends should have their own book our at least get their stories resolved with Zenia and Jev helping along the way. I think this story has too much potential for this to be the last book I don't think the characters have found there ending.
December 16, 2018
I hate this book......
Because potentially out is the last in the series, and whilst MOST things are all packaged up in a nice big bow, there are still so many unanswered questions!! For example what about...(no can't ask that for fear of spoilers) ok so what about..nope (pesky spoilers) and about..argh! This can't be the end I have to many questions NOT in that lovely beat tied package! To many friends I need to know the answer to!
On a serious note, if you like your books with humour, your heroines with a strong sense of duty, honour and morals, your hero's with wit, charm and a glint in their eyes. Then Agents of The Crown will not disappoint. It's a series I've enjoyed thoroughly and have no concerns about recommending to others of all ages.
Because potentially out is the last in the series, and whilst MOST things are all packaged up in a nice big bow, there are still so many unanswered questions!! For example what about...(no can't ask that for fear of spoilers) ok so what about..nope (pesky spoilers) and about..argh! This can't be the end I have to many questions NOT in that lovely beat tied package! To many friends I need to know the answer to!
On a serious note, if you like your books with humour, your heroines with a strong sense of duty, honour and morals, your hero's with wit, charm and a glint in their eyes. Then Agents of The Crown will not disappoint. It's a series I've enjoyed thoroughly and have no concerns about recommending to others of all ages.
February 21, 2021
Solid 5 stars to me.
This is not the genre I usually read, but this fantasy adventure is well written with a well developed plot and characters. This is the last of five volumes in this set "Agents of the Crown".
This volume starts with Zenia arranging for the a trip to another, nearby continent (one week by steamer) to free the dragon that is linked to the magical dragon tear gem that she wears. It is filled with adventure, obstacles to overcome, treachery, and suspense.
The grammar is generally good, which makes the reading easier for me. Poor grammar annoys me. The phrase questions in the middle of sentences or just after a sentences were really the only grammatical deviations that seemed out of place for me.
I would recommend this series.
This is not the genre I usually read, but this fantasy adventure is well written with a well developed plot and characters. This is the last of five volumes in this set "Agents of the Crown".
This volume starts with Zenia arranging for the a trip to another, nearby continent (one week by steamer) to free the dragon that is linked to the magical dragon tear gem that she wears. It is filled with adventure, obstacles to overcome, treachery, and suspense.
The grammar is generally good, which makes the reading easier for me. Poor grammar annoys me. The phrase questions in the middle of sentences or just after a sentences were really the only grammatical deviations that seemed out of place for me.
I would recommend this series.
March 25, 2021
I have never really understood the mania about unicorns. The unicorn in this book makes me even less likely to appreciate them. This book does, however, examine orcs, trolls, and ogres in a new and different light. Instead of being dumb and evil beasts, here they are presented as sentient races, much like elves, with their own cultures, norms, and motivations. In this tale they are still the enemy, but you get a since of a sympathetic people driven by need instead of malice. Dragons, of course, are always cool (as long as they're not actually shape-shifting men (ugg)) and this young lady is no exception. Her indomitable spirit and sense of playful mischief are refreshing and keep the drudgery of the action light and moving forward.
December 13, 2018
I never turn away from a Lindsay Buroker tale!
Writing reviews about any of Lindsay's books can be difficult after a while. She probably the most prolific writer I read, her characters either make me happy sappy or bad mad. With innuendo, no graphic sex, with a sense of danger in each adventure, Lindsay gives us a fantasy with heroes and heroines who overcome obstacles, even if they do smell like mangrove forests and swamp water.
The difficult part is finding new words that show my delight.
Luv ya, Lindsay! Oh, and I should have done this a while ago - Thank you for doing the Kindle Unlimited thing!!
Writing reviews about any of Lindsay's books can be difficult after a while. She probably the most prolific writer I read, her characters either make me happy sappy or bad mad. With innuendo, no graphic sex, with a sense of danger in each adventure, Lindsay gives us a fantasy with heroes and heroines who overcome obstacles, even if they do smell like mangrove forests and swamp water.
The difficult part is finding new words that show my delight.
Luv ya, Lindsay! Oh, and I should have done this a while ago - Thank you for doing the Kindle Unlimited thing!!
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