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Dragon Riders of Elantia #5
Test of the Dragon
When Zara and Lessie finally got their hands on a piece of the Dragon God’s heart, they thought their path was clear. Head to the Forge of Derynnis, gain the death god’s favor, and convince him to destroy the evil relic once and for all.
But getting to the Forge is no simple feat, and it’s not even the first thing on Zara’s list. Between battling the Dragon God’s sinister will, evading Salcombe’s sabotage attempts, and securing the future of her people, Zara’s got her work cut out for her. And when she finally reaches the death god’s lair, the price she’ll be forced to pay for his help might just break her…
But getting to the Forge is no simple feat, and it’s not even the first thing on Zara’s list. Between battling the Dragon God’s sinister will, evading Salcombe’s sabotage attempts, and securing the future of her people, Zara’s got her work cut out for her. And when she finally reaches the death god’s lair, the price she’ll be forced to pay for his help might just break her…
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2019
324 people are currently reading
625 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Drake
13 books84 followersJESSICA DRAKE is the epic fantasy pen name for New York Times bestseller Jasmine Walt. She's always wanted to write epic and sword and sorcery fantasy, and is really hoping that readers will love the new dragon rider series she's put out. When she’s not binge-watching Lord of the Rings or planning her dream vacation, she can be found chained to her computer, feverishly working on her next project. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to drop her a line at jessica@authorjessicadrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 8, 2019
After obtaining a piece of the Dragon's Heart, Zara and Tavarian head to Polyba, an abandoned island on Lessie. The dragon riders are already there because Rhia says that a former resident of the island had a secret estate and a powerful weapon was supposed to be hidden there that would help defeat the Zallabariabs. On arrival, they discover that the island isn't abandoned and the natives aren't very welcoming. The dragon riders have encountered many problems since arriving. The island is rocky with little vegetation that can be used for food, the natives sold them some goats- one of which they poisoned, and the natives are angry because some of the dragons killed some of their goats. Zara and Tavarian witness firsthand the natives animosity toward them when the natives shoot arrows into the balloon of the airship transporting supplies causing it to almost crash if it hadn't been for Tavarian's help.
Word comes to them that the Zallabarians that have taken over Ellantia, are rounding up young boys and any dragon eggs they can locate. Plans are made to go to Elantia to try and intercept the eggs and boys before the Zallabarians do.
Do they find the ancient weapon that will help them defeat the Zallabarians? Are the dragon riders able to rescue the boys and dragon eggs? Can they bring back enough supplies to care for all ofvtheir people on the island? Can Zara and Tavarian get his piece of the Dragon's Heart and take both pieces to Hellmouth, domain of Derynnis, god of death, for him to destroy them in his forge?
This series of books are action packed and I wait eagerly for the next one to come out. If you like dragon stories, I highly recommend this series. I received an ARC in exchange for a review. This is a very honest review.
Word comes to them that the Zallabarians that have taken over Ellantia, are rounding up young boys and any dragon eggs they can locate. Plans are made to go to Elantia to try and intercept the eggs and boys before the Zallabarians do.
Do they find the ancient weapon that will help them defeat the Zallabarians? Are the dragon riders able to rescue the boys and dragon eggs? Can they bring back enough supplies to care for all ofvtheir people on the island? Can Zara and Tavarian get his piece of the Dragon's Heart and take both pieces to Hellmouth, domain of Derynnis, god of death, for him to destroy them in his forge?
This series of books are action packed and I wait eagerly for the next one to come out. If you like dragon stories, I highly recommend this series. I received an ARC in exchange for a review. This is a very honest review.
December 12, 2020
*****Spoilers*****
The beginning of this book is a little slow to get where it needs to go which is for Zara to go to the death god to destroy the heart pieces she has. With a little help from Caor, she's able to find and book passage on a ship. The captain is morally deficient and tries to scam Zara and crew but he's surprised when the dragons show up. Good for Zara. Solcombe also comes a calling and almost succeeds in sinking the ship Zara and crew are on before she, dragons, and Caor are able to fight him off. Solcombe is packing some serious god power
Zara completed her quest and the dragon heart pieces have been given over. One was destroyed by the god of death and the god put the other piece in the pommel of a sword. Hopefully that's the end of the dragon god threat and Salcombe is thwarted once and for all. Hopefully anyway. He does still have two pieces of the god heart so no telling what he'll be able to do.
Though Zara escapes the island that the death god calls home, she's not home free just yet. She and Lessie are poisoned by the noxious air on the island and pass out. We'll see what happens next.
The beginning of this book is a little slow to get where it needs to go which is for Zara to go to the death god to destroy the heart pieces she has. With a little help from Caor, she's able to find and book passage on a ship. The captain is morally deficient and tries to scam Zara and crew but he's surprised when the dragons show up. Good for Zara. Solcombe also comes a calling and almost succeeds in sinking the ship Zara and crew are on before she, dragons, and Caor are able to fight him off. Solcombe is packing some serious god power
Zara completed her quest and the dragon heart pieces have been given over. One was destroyed by the god of death and the god put the other piece in the pommel of a sword. Hopefully that's the end of the dragon god threat and Salcombe is thwarted once and for all. Hopefully anyway. He does still have two pieces of the god heart so no telling what he'll be able to do.
Though Zara escapes the island that the death god calls home, she's not home free just yet. She and Lessie are poisoned by the noxious air on the island and pass out. We'll see what happens next.
January 7, 2019
You would think it is simple from now on - get a piece of the Dragon God's heart, take it to the Forge of Derynnis, get the god's favour and get him to destroy it once and for all. However it is not so simple for Zara and Lessie as they need to secure the future of their people, evade Salcombe and evade the Dragon God's will. But when she is finally there will the price she will have to pay be enough to break her?
Wow - another action packed instalment of the saga of Zara ans Lessie and their battle to save their people and beat those who want the Dragon God's power. There were moments of danger, drama and action as well as times when she explored her emotions and feelings towards people. Everything was clear and easy to understand. The story in this book concludes in a moment of high drama and I just need to know what happens next - it's going to be torture waiting for the next book to be written.
Wow - another action packed instalment of the saga of Zara ans Lessie and their battle to save their people and beat those who want the Dragon God's power. There were moments of danger, drama and action as well as times when she explored her emotions and feelings towards people. Everything was clear and easy to understand. The story in this book concludes in a moment of high drama and I just need to know what happens next - it's going to be torture waiting for the next book to be written.
January 8, 2019
*voluntarily and honestly reviewed the ARC I received from the author*
It falls between an 'almost 3' and '3' for me in the rating. I really enjoy Lessie and her relationship with her rider/partner, and so far she's been carrying the series for me, but this is the fifth installment now, and I'm beginning to feel the mileage. I've been in a strange funk but I believe that a good book always pulls you through and at least entertains you halfway through. This book, while filled with detailed lines on every page, just seemed to read a little monotonous. I'm not sure why. The first few chapters set the pace for what the mood was like, but then things would start to come up, and when they were supposed to be huge and really important, I just kept thinking about when something monumental was going to occur. There were only two times that I really felt something, and I was hoping for more.
I think if you're a lover of dragons and fantasy, you'll like this.
It falls between an 'almost 3' and '3' for me in the rating. I really enjoy Lessie and her relationship with her rider/partner, and so far she's been carrying the series for me, but this is the fifth installment now, and I'm beginning to feel the mileage. I've been in a strange funk but I believe that a good book always pulls you through and at least entertains you halfway through. This book, while filled with detailed lines on every page, just seemed to read a little monotonous. I'm not sure why. The first few chapters set the pace for what the mood was like, but then things would start to come up, and when they were supposed to be huge and really important, I just kept thinking about when something monumental was going to occur. There were only two times that I really felt something, and I was hoping for more.
I think if you're a lover of dragons and fantasy, you'll like this.
January 8, 2019
Good luck putting this addition to the series down...
Test of the Dragon (A Dragon Riders of Elantia Novel) by Jessica Drake is another great addition to the series. If you’ve enjoyed the previous books, this one is a must!
I enjoyed this addition more than the last one. There is more action, new characters, and the story flows well resulting in you not wanting to put it down.
Things to expect: war strategy/talk, a good amount of new characters (orphans, pirates, Gods, tribes), new quests, new enemies/friends, discovery of family, new places, Lessie’s snark, continuation of the dragon heart search, previous characters, and so on. And well...the ending (not saying other than a cliffhanger).
I definitely recommend if you have enjoyed the previous books.
Parental advisory/trigger warnings: similar to the previous books- death, occasional swearing, weapons, war, and people being sold for slavery.
Test of the Dragon (A Dragon Riders of Elantia Novel) by Jessica Drake is another great addition to the series. If you’ve enjoyed the previous books, this one is a must!
I enjoyed this addition more than the last one. There is more action, new characters, and the story flows well resulting in you not wanting to put it down.
Things to expect: war strategy/talk, a good amount of new characters (orphans, pirates, Gods, tribes), new quests, new enemies/friends, discovery of family, new places, Lessie’s snark, continuation of the dragon heart search, previous characters, and so on. And well...the ending (not saying other than a cliffhanger).
I definitely recommend if you have enjoyed the previous books.
Parental advisory/trigger warnings: similar to the previous books- death, occasional swearing, weapons, war, and people being sold for slavery.
January 7, 2019
This is a wonderful series filled with magic and battles and gods and evil people and our heroes all striving to make the world what they want it to be. I really like this series, and this latest installment of the story did not disappoint. There are a number of tasks that Zara and Lessie have to accomplish. With the help of their friends they are able to get to their goal. Then it is up to Zara to get the job done. I’m glad Tavarian and Zara are at a good place in their relationship, and Lessie is still always there for Zara. This is a great addition to the series, and I cannot wait for the next installment. Give this book and series a try if you love adventure-filled fantasy.
I highly recommend this book and series, and I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
I highly recommend this book and series, and I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 7, 2019
Note: I Received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review.
The adventure continues. War is seemingly more challenging each day and well it obviously is hard on our main hero. I won’t spoil anything, but this book totally continues on a good note.
I really enjoyed this part of our story. Some twists and turns and challenges keep popping up making things hard for the dragon riders but I enjoyed each moment as I read through this book.
If you’ve read the series books so far without a doubt I recommend reading this one too. I found myself taking almost any minute to read even a page or two as I couldn’t help myself from seeing where this part of the journey would go.
Definitely a really good read.
The adventure continues. War is seemingly more challenging each day and well it obviously is hard on our main hero. I won’t spoil anything, but this book totally continues on a good note.
I really enjoyed this part of our story. Some twists and turns and challenges keep popping up making things hard for the dragon riders but I enjoyed each moment as I read through this book.
If you’ve read the series books so far without a doubt I recommend reading this one too. I found myself taking almost any minute to read even a page or two as I couldn’t help myself from seeing where this part of the journey would go.
Definitely a really good read.
January 7, 2019
Zara, Lessie and her faithful and loyal friends and loved ones come together once more in the fifth installment in the fight against the return of the dragon God. Tensions are high and things are not easy, they win some and the loose some, but the fighting spirt they all possess will not he quelled. She may have to go on her journey to the Forge alone, but as she finds out, you are never truly alone when you are loved and valued. Zara and Lessie continue to grow and their bond flourishes, as does her bond with her lover and her friends. New fantastical creatures and friends are made and the action is at its finest. I cannot wait for the next leg of this magnificent series and highly recommend this to lovers of action-packed fantasy with a touch of romance.
January 8, 2019
A new installment in the series about the magic world of Elantia. You should read them in chronological order. You are lost without the beginning of the heroic saga. And if you know the characters from the previous book, you will like the tale and the cliffhanger at the end leaves you hungry for the next. If you like classic fantasy with all the swords and sorcery, this is for you. And with female characters as real defining parts of the story it is not a fantasy novel like in the 20th century. This is a contemporary novel, and if you are a sad man left over from the 1960s, this is not for you. All the others will have fun reading it.
The only negative thing about it, it doesn't go on and on and … and we have to wait for the release of the next volume.
The only negative thing about it, it doesn't go on and on and … and we have to wait for the release of the next volume.
January 12, 2019
Being active in a war is tough.
But comparing that to the quest of destroying the dragon god´s heart? It´s a piece of cake.
With Salcombe at her heels, Zara together with Tavarian and her closest friends have to take off to the most dangerous place known, a place where she can destroy the pieces of Zakyar´s heart and try to survive facing the godly presence. The journey is not easy, and life does not stop until she solves the problem - Zara would have to do everything she can to survive and succeed.
Adventurous a suspenseful, this new installment adds to the series a great deal of excitement and information. Our knowledge of the world setup expands exponentially, learning about places we never heard of in the previous books, meeting new people, and getting to know the main characters deeper than before. I love how Zara and Tavarian´s relationship turned out, and read in tension basically the whole book - some passages more than the others. Fast and enjoyable fantasy read worth trying out.
But comparing that to the quest of destroying the dragon god´s heart? It´s a piece of cake.
With Salcombe at her heels, Zara together with Tavarian and her closest friends have to take off to the most dangerous place known, a place where she can destroy the pieces of Zakyar´s heart and try to survive facing the godly presence. The journey is not easy, and life does not stop until she solves the problem - Zara would have to do everything she can to survive and succeed.
Adventurous a suspenseful, this new installment adds to the series a great deal of excitement and information. Our knowledge of the world setup expands exponentially, learning about places we never heard of in the previous books, meeting new people, and getting to know the main characters deeper than before. I love how Zara and Tavarian´s relationship turned out, and read in tension basically the whole book - some passages more than the others. Fast and enjoyable fantasy read worth trying out.
January 7, 2019
Zara and Lessie working together never disappoint. This new chapter in their adventures brings all the drama I've come to expect from this series. Zara finds herself in a position she's not used to, being in charge of all decisions for the rescued riders. She runs into issues you may expect for a new leader and also wrestles with her need to complete her own personal journey while protecting those who have placed their faith in her. If you enjoy fantasy, dragons and lots of drama, this series is for you!
January 8, 2019
Zara's homeland may be occupied by enemy forces, but the war isn't over. I love Zara's new name given to her by the soldiers she rescued. She has a list of things to do and an important quest to finish. Zara is armed with a formidable dragon blade and wears a magical amulet, but can she escape Salcombe who chases after her and the dragon god who haunts her dreams? This story is action-packed, with adventure, danger, magic, gods, battles, dragons, romance, war, missions and a dangerous quest. I love this captivating series and can't wait for the next book to come out!
March 20, 2019
Good Continuance of the Series ...
... Test keeps up the good pace that author Drake has set for the Series to this point; and while some avenues *seem* to have been closed off with this installment's conclusion, there's still plenty of material to cover and even some exploration needed for what *has* been potentially finished. To be expanded when time allows, to cover those items and to explore one growing issue I have with the writing in the series. Actual grade: 3.75 stars.
... Test keeps up the good pace that author Drake has set for the Series to this point; and while some avenues *seem* to have been closed off with this installment's conclusion, there's still plenty of material to cover and even some exploration needed for what *has* been potentially finished. To be expanded when time allows, to cover those items and to explore one growing issue I have with the writing in the series. Actual grade: 3.75 stars.
June 10, 2024
This series is brutal (in the right sense). There’s more adventures, and Zara is such a bad**s, I love her.
I only have the last book left to read. I completely devoured this series. I could understand why it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is for me. I can already tell this series is going to be really special for me. And I’ll probably reread it in the future. I might also consider buying the physical books, although I bought them on kindle, so that I can have them on my shelves.
We’ll see. I loved Zara’s journey.
I’m going directly to the las book. Would defenitely recommend.
I only have the last book left to read. I completely devoured this series. I could understand why it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is for me. I can already tell this series is going to be really special for me. And I’ll probably reread it in the future. I might also consider buying the physical books, although I bought them on kindle, so that I can have them on my shelves.
We’ll see. I loved Zara’s journey.
I’m going directly to the las book. Would defenitely recommend.
January 7, 2019
I received Test of the Dragon as a free copy from the author/publisher. The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
This author has a way of spinning an interesting tale and keeping characters fresh and interesting-- I enjoyed the plot, the worldbuilding, the mix of characters and their relationship, and the steady pacing, which kept the storyline moving forward. Overall, a great read!
This author has a way of spinning an interesting tale and keeping characters fresh and interesting-- I enjoyed the plot, the worldbuilding, the mix of characters and their relationship, and the steady pacing, which kept the storyline moving forward. Overall, a great read!
January 7, 2019
I look forward to the next instalment of this epic story! Zara faces many challenges in this book. For instance, one trip she goes on has three goals to accomplish. In addition, her integrity requires that she also deal with an orphanage of children who are evicted form their home as it is sold from beneath them. It is touching how Lessie and Zara care for one another while still accomplishing all that needs to be done. Kathleen Walsh
January 14, 2019
Nooooo
Noooo.... How could she end the book like that?! I'm about to lose my mind and this author may owe me a new kindle because I may toss it at the wall for that. Good grief, I'm so invested in this series and this books ending is torture that I will ensure until the next release... it's so unfair lol when will I ever learn to not get a series until all the books are finished. Eep! Definitely love this adventure but the suspense, angst, and drama is killing me right now.
Noooo.... How could she end the book like that?! I'm about to lose my mind and this author may owe me a new kindle because I may toss it at the wall for that. Good grief, I'm so invested in this series and this books ending is torture that I will ensure until the next release... it's so unfair lol when will I ever learn to not get a series until all the books are finished. Eep! Definitely love this adventure but the suspense, angst, and drama is killing me right now.
January 7, 2019
This was a cracker of a story! As usual Ms. Drake’s writing is detailed, absorbing and easy to read, and while the story was good it was more about build up to the next book. And holy cow that ending! Argh, you’re killing me! This was a great read, I can’t wait for the next, and thank you for the opportunity to review this gem!
January 7, 2019
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
It was a great book!
This is book 5 of Zara & Lessie's journey in Elantia.
Zara continues to fight for her people
Lessie is always by her side.
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
It was a great book!
This is book 5 of Zara & Lessie's journey in Elantia.
Zara continues to fight for her people
Lessie is always by her side.
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
I can't wait for the next book in this series.
January 7, 2019
This is the continuing story of Zara and her dragon partner in world at war. It is a great story and continues to hold your interest throughout the story. It has both mystery and love interests which hold everyone’s interest. Greatly look forward to the next in the series. A plus is that you can start with this book and then read earlier ones to catch up.
January 7, 2019
Awesome book in the series. It was very well written and i read it in a few hours. I couldn't put it down and wished it was longer. I loved how the story played out and with all the twists and turns of plot. All i can really say is if you liked the other books in the series you'll definitely like this one. Highly recommend it
January 7, 2019
It’s a thrill to journey with Zara and her dragon Lessie as their adventures continue. Tricky Gods, pirates and enemy invaders are just a few of the obstacles they contend with on their way to destroy the pieces of Dragon God heart before Salcombe catches up with them. Can’t wait for the next installment to see what other new adventures they can get in to.
January 14, 2019
Please hurry!!!
This series of books is addicting amazing and wonderful. A fantastic spin on "dragon stories" that is not like any I've read before. If you like plot twists, characters you love, and a story that causes you to ignore your real life until the story is finished, then this is the book for you.
Please Jessica! Please hurry on your next volume!! I can't wait!
This series of books is addicting amazing and wonderful. A fantastic spin on "dragon stories" that is not like any I've read before. If you like plot twists, characters you love, and a story that causes you to ignore your real life until the story is finished, then this is the book for you.
Please Jessica! Please hurry on your next volume!! I can't wait!
January 26, 2019
Oh my, no words!
Test of the Dragon has so far been the most frightening and intense of this series and I'm still in shock from the ending! I won't give it away, but all I can say is book 5 better be out soon, because I hate to be left hanging like this. Loving this series and want resolution fast!!
Test of the Dragon has so far been the most frightening and intense of this series and I'm still in shock from the ending! I won't give it away, but all I can say is book 5 better be out soon, because I hate to be left hanging like this. Loving this series and want resolution fast!!
August 14, 2019
...even cockroaches can be squashed.
Gods always make stories more complicated. Some aid thrir champions, others turn a blind eye to the plight of mortals, preferring their own petty games.
Zara, no doubt, is growing weary of this whole sordid affair.
On to the next book!
Keep reading
Gods always make stories more complicated. Some aid thrir champions, others turn a blind eye to the plight of mortals, preferring their own petty games.
Zara, no doubt, is growing weary of this whole sordid affair.
On to the next book!
Keep reading
May 12, 2020
Great book
I have always loved fantasy books I love dragons I became a book work when I was very sick as a child they have always helped to forget some of the hard times it is a very good storyline with well written characters and if you love to go on an adventure read these books the who!e series is good and keeps you on your seat
I have always loved fantasy books I love dragons I became a book work when I was very sick as a child they have always helped to forget some of the hard times it is a very good storyline with well written characters and if you love to go on an adventure read these books the who!e series is good and keeps you on your seat
February 15, 2021
As a huge fan of Dragon Riders of Pern (Anne McCaffrey) and the Inheritance Cycle Series (Christopher Paolini), I will say I have enjoyed this series.
I do find it interesting how the story was split into different books, I almost wanted it to be one large novel. Can we have other stories in this world? What happens with other characters?
Is there a map of this world? I'm visual like that.
I do find it interesting how the story was split into different books, I almost wanted it to be one large novel. Can we have other stories in this world? What happens with other characters?
Is there a map of this world? I'm visual like that.
January 7, 2019
Super good
Loved where this adventure went with trying to get to the forge to destroy the Dragon heart pieces. I loved how there was more Tavarian in this book and how his and Zara’s relationship progressed.
Loved where this adventure went with trying to get to the forge to destroy the Dragon heart pieces. I loved how there was more Tavarian in this book and how his and Zara’s relationship progressed.
January 8, 2019
What a fantastic series that's filled with adventure. Each installment is better than the last. The characters are strong and distinct. The world built around these amazing characters is brought to life in striking detail and will leave you totally immersed.
January 9, 2019
Another thrilling instalment in this exciting series! I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all of these characters and especially Lessie and Zara’s relationship. I also liked how Zara’s romantic relationship has progressed. Can’t wait for the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews