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Dragonfire #7
Flashfire
He's lost all hope...until she changes everything.
Master illusionist Lorenzo wants nothing to do with the Pyr. His dragon nature is just another secret to hide and another detail to juggle, like ensuring that each of his Las Vegas magic shows is a true spectacle. Until he feels the burn of his firestorm and his whole world shifts....
Cassie Redmond is tired of photographing celebrities. She wants to pursue her dream of serious photography—despite the lucrative offer for a shot of a dragon shifter. Las Vegas is the last place she wants to be, but Lorenzo arouses more than her curiosity when he shifts shape as the finale of his show. Instead of forcing him to reveal his secrets, Cassie gets swept away by this illusionist’s masterful touch.
Lorenzo wants to satisfy the firestorm and put it behind him. But Cassie is hard to forget—and he can’t ignore the danger when Slayers target the mate Lorenzo didn’t believe he wanted...
Master illusionist Lorenzo wants nothing to do with the Pyr. His dragon nature is just another secret to hide and another detail to juggle, like ensuring that each of his Las Vegas magic shows is a true spectacle. Until he feels the burn of his firestorm and his whole world shifts....
Cassie Redmond is tired of photographing celebrities. She wants to pursue her dream of serious photography—despite the lucrative offer for a shot of a dragon shifter. Las Vegas is the last place she wants to be, but Lorenzo arouses more than her curiosity when he shifts shape as the finale of his show. Instead of forcing him to reveal his secrets, Cassie gets swept away by this illusionist’s masterful touch.
Lorenzo wants to satisfy the firestorm and put it behind him. But Cassie is hard to forget—and he can’t ignore the danger when Slayers target the mate Lorenzo didn’t believe he wanted...
338 pages, Hardcover
First published January 3, 2012
28 people are currently reading
1174 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Cooke
89 books853 followersDeborah Cooke also writes under the names Claire Delacroix and Claire Cross.
Bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Cooke has published over fifty novels and novellas, including historical romances, fantasy romances, fantasy novels with romantic elements, paranormal romances, contemporary romances, urban fantasy romances, time travel romances and paranormal young adult novels. She writes as herself, Deborah Cooke, as Claire Delacroix, and has written as Claire Cross. She is nationally bestselling, #1 Kindle Bestselling, KOBO Bestselling, as well as a USA Today and New York Times’ Bestselling Author. Her Claire Delacroix medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.
Deborah was the writer-in-residence at the Toronto Public Library in 2009, the first time TPL hosted a residency focused on the romance genre, and she was honored to receive the Romance Writers of America PRO Mentor of the Year Award in 2012. She’s a member of Romance Writers of America and of Novelists Inc.
Currently, she’s writing paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke, and medieval romances as Claire Delacroix.
Deborah thinks a lot about publishing and writing, and also knits too much.
Bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Cooke has published over fifty novels and novellas, including historical romances, fantasy romances, fantasy novels with romantic elements, paranormal romances, contemporary romances, urban fantasy romances, time travel romances and paranormal young adult novels. She writes as herself, Deborah Cooke, as Claire Delacroix, and has written as Claire Cross. She is nationally bestselling, #1 Kindle Bestselling, KOBO Bestselling, as well as a USA Today and New York Times’ Bestselling Author. Her Claire Delacroix medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.
Deborah was the writer-in-residence at the Toronto Public Library in 2009, the first time TPL hosted a residency focused on the romance genre, and she was honored to receive the Romance Writers of America PRO Mentor of the Year Award in 2012. She’s a member of Romance Writers of America and of Novelists Inc.
Currently, she’s writing paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke, and medieval romances as Claire Delacroix.
Deborah thinks a lot about publishing and writing, and also knits too much.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 6, 2013
Really 4.5stars
Master Illusionist Lorenzo (di Fiore) really hates being a dragon shifter and refuses to take sides in the ongoing battle. Days before his scheduled greatest feat his firestorm arrives in the form of celebrity photographer Cassie Redmond. Spunky Cassie is determined to prove that dragon shifters don't exist but finds herself being used as a pawn by Lorenzo's enemies and unable to fight the draw to Lorenzo himself. To protect his destined mate, Lorezo may have break his own rule and ask for help. Erik, Chen and Balthasar all want Lorenzo to join their forces in the ultimate battle and they are all aware of the firestorm as well adding even more heat to Las Vegas.
Lorenzo's introduction in Darkfire Kiss showed him to be neutral and not part of any camp's enclave but not much else. That added a delicious degree of mystery to this read. Lorenzo now has to use every bit of himself and adjust his plans as he finds himself drawn to Cassie. For her part, Cassie is skeptical enough to wonder if Lorenzo is just that irresistible or if she is beguiled. But Cassie does know she's glad she decided to just have a bit of fun while on vacation. Their courtship played well against the new elements of the firestorm and highlighted their chemistry and individual good qualities. The scope of Chen's plan added more tension to the read as the Pyr gather to aid Lorenzo, making Chen seem even more diabolical. Not to be pushed aside Balthasar is in the mix daring to challenge Lorenzo and endanger everything he holds dear.
The writing continues to improve and both pacing and plotting are always on target. This little heralded series continues to keep itself fresh interspersing new elements seamlessly to those that exist in its mythology. There are also many moving parts but the installments don't feel overcrowded and each thread of the overall arc is receives equal treatment. All of the pieces worked for good here and made this arguably one of the best of the series.
Master Illusionist Lorenzo (di Fiore) really hates being a dragon shifter and refuses to take sides in the ongoing battle. Days before his scheduled greatest feat his firestorm arrives in the form of celebrity photographer Cassie Redmond. Spunky Cassie is determined to prove that dragon shifters don't exist but finds herself being used as a pawn by Lorenzo's enemies and unable to fight the draw to Lorenzo himself. To protect his destined mate, Lorezo may have break his own rule and ask for help. Erik, Chen and Balthasar all want Lorenzo to join their forces in the ultimate battle and they are all aware of the firestorm as well adding even more heat to Las Vegas.
Lorenzo's introduction in Darkfire Kiss showed him to be neutral and not part of any camp's enclave but not much else. That added a delicious degree of mystery to this read. Lorenzo now has to use every bit of himself and adjust his plans as he finds himself drawn to Cassie. For her part, Cassie is skeptical enough to wonder if Lorenzo is just that irresistible or if she is beguiled. But Cassie does know she's glad she decided to just have a bit of fun while on vacation. Their courtship played well against the new elements of the firestorm and highlighted their chemistry and individual good qualities. The scope of Chen's plan added more tension to the read as the Pyr gather to aid Lorenzo, making Chen seem even more diabolical. Not to be pushed aside Balthasar is in the mix daring to challenge Lorenzo and endanger everything he holds dear.
The writing continues to improve and both pacing and plotting are always on target. This little heralded series continues to keep itself fresh interspersing new elements seamlessly to those that exist in its mythology. There are also many moving parts but the installments don't feel overcrowded and each thread of the overall arc is receives equal treatment. All of the pieces worked for good here and made this arguably one of the best of the series.
March 16, 2012
Book 7 in the
Dragonfire series
and one of my favourites of the recent releases. The hero is Lorenzo, a Pyr and a master illusionist, who has distanced himself from the other dragons and refuses to change to his dragon form. Unfortunately his dragon nature is hard to deny when the latest firestorm is his own and his mate shows up to his magic show. Lorenzo wants to satisfy the firestorm and put it behind him but Cassie is impossible to forget. He is suddenly surrounded by Slayers and Pyr and he has to choose between love and a new life.
Lorenzo really grew on me. I thought the author did a great job with his character. He is a total showman and a very strong Pyr. He is planning the biggest of all illusions and no matter what danger or big life decisions are thrown in his path, he accomplishes everything with panache. His skill as an illusionist is cleverly woven into the climactic battle with Chen and his minions. In every situation he was a winner.
Cassie was a good foil to the extroverted Lorenzo. A smart and pragmatic woman who is able to make Lorenzo a little less selfish and help reunite him with his kind. The two of them fell for each other fairly quickly and easily, not a lot of angst or unresolved sexual tension. Most of the drama and enjoyment for me came from the ongoing plot. I really liked Salvatore and Angelina's small story too (Lorenzo's parents). I'm totally sold on following Brandon and Thorolf's adventures and will definitely buy the next book.
Lorenzo really grew on me. I thought the author did a great job with his character. He is a total showman and a very strong Pyr. He is planning the biggest of all illusions and no matter what danger or big life decisions are thrown in his path, he accomplishes everything with panache. His skill as an illusionist is cleverly woven into the climactic battle with Chen and his minions. In every situation he was a winner.
Cassie was a good foil to the extroverted Lorenzo. A smart and pragmatic woman who is able to make Lorenzo a little less selfish and help reunite him with his kind. The two of them fell for each other fairly quickly and easily, not a lot of angst or unresolved sexual tension. Most of the drama and enjoyment for me came from the ongoing plot. I really liked Salvatore and Angelina's small story too (Lorenzo's parents). I'm totally sold on following Brandon and Thorolf's adventures and will definitely buy the next book.
June 17, 2012
It seems I'm the only one who hated this story. I never warmed up to Lorenzo and I thought Cassie was just a little too self righteous to be believed. Their romance didn't ring true to me AT ALL. I never felt the connection, even once. It also seemed like the story just dragged on and on. A tremendous disappointment for a series I usually love. I only kept reading so I could stay up to speed with the series as a whole.
October 16, 2018
This splendid Dragonfire novel is full of illuminating and thrilling events that keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Lorenzo and Cassie are two strong, spunky characters that grab reader’s attention and holds on tight and they have the firestorm sparking with more intense heat than ever before. Both Cassie and Lorenzo are bound and determine to not only ignore the blazing heat and electrifying chemistry between them, but they are also determined to discredit the other. The relationship is one battle after another which keeps the emotional turbulence at an all-time high but the firestorm ensures that the passion is also at an all-time high, so the heat intensifies between Lorenzo and Cassie ensuring that readers stay glued to the pages.
The action is exhilarating in this fast pace plot that keeps the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense and surprising twists that keeps everyone on edge. There is no way for readers to find a dull moment as the story enthralls readers with exciting battles between dragons and several fascinating, awe inspiring and death defying illusions. Lorenzo’s not the only illusionist in this story, so readers beware everything may not be as it seems as secrets are revealed. The Dragonfire series continues to fascinate and delight me with each new book, all of them are electrifying and sensual with passionate firestorms that compel readers to fall in love with the sexy characters.
The action is exhilarating in this fast pace plot that keeps the adrenaline pumping with lots of suspense and surprising twists that keeps everyone on edge. There is no way for readers to find a dull moment as the story enthralls readers with exciting battles between dragons and several fascinating, awe inspiring and death defying illusions. Lorenzo’s not the only illusionist in this story, so readers beware everything may not be as it seems as secrets are revealed. The Dragonfire series continues to fascinate and delight me with each new book, all of them are electrifying and sensual with passionate firestorms that compel readers to fall in love with the sexy characters.
January 9, 2012
Flashfire is Book 7 in Deborah Cooke’s popular DragonFire series and once again Ms Cooke has taken us for an enjoyable ride. The DragonFire Series is unique one that follows the lives of the Pyr who protect the earth.. their sole purpose in this live is to care for her, nurture her and respect her resources. Somewhere along the line they split.. now there are Pyr who follow the old ways and Slayers who, well don’t. Of course there is a constant battle of good vs. evil
In FlashFire we head out to Vegas to find Lorenzo... Lorenzo is a Dragon who really is tired of being a Dragon. He is rather fed up with all the “primitive” aspects and wants to just escape and he has a plan.. Yeah don’t they all. Lorenzo has been in hiding for years from the other Pyr and only recently had he been re discovered because he was in hiding.. and of course what better place to hide than Las Vegas as a magician no less!
Cassie Redmond is a celebrities worst nightmare, she’s paparazzi only one with a conscience.. She is currently taking a small vacation to both to escape from the demands of a soulless job and to offer moral support to her best friend who was dumped by her latest sleazebag boyfriend. Being the good friend that she is, Cassie followed Stacy from venue to venue, until finally getting into Lorenzo’s show.. one of the last few under his contract as he has finally found a way out.. sitting in the front seat, practical, logical, tough girl Cassie is spellbound, not with the magic show she is sure she can figure that out but with the Magician.
Lorenzo has just a handful of days before his great escape, he is on his way out.. only his father is not working with him, it’s a full moon and someone is going to get a Firestorm.. he just didn’t realize it would be him.. Like he needed more complications.. Since he didn’t really believe in most of the “Myths” of the Pyr he figured the Firestorm was a mild inconvenience.. Wham Bam and all that.. *grins* that’s what they all say. Let’s just say the Firestorm is the least of his problems.. Suddenly Vegas is Grand Dragan Central with Pyr, Slayers and the mysterious Sleeper all dropping in for visits.
Cassie and Lorenzo both have trust issues to deal with, as well as basic life decisions to make. Added to the fact that the Slayers have a vacuum at the top and more than one Dragon is after Lorenzo to join the ranks. It is amazing that with all this going on all you see is this great couple trying to figure it all out. The drama of Lorenzo deciding to leave the Pyr or rather wanting to.. is well played out and written into the story most excellently. We get visits from Chen and Balthazar (great name btw) as well as Eric and we see interesting views into Lorenzo’s past. Ms Cooke, also manages to intrigue us with what is happening with Thorolf.. I just love Thorolf so was glad to see him and a peak at Brandon as well.. Chen is very busy in his attempt to master the Pyr.
It’s funny, this book has actually gotten better as I write the review.. It was a good read, entertaining and I liked Lorenzo and Cassie but it is the subplot and the machinations of everyone else that really brings this book to the front. From Salvatore acting in Lorenzo’s best interest to just about everyone BUT Eric questioning his loyalties.. there is plenty of action going on. Loved the fight scenes as well.. great aerial Dragon stuff happening.. and not a little mystical fun. Yes, I recommend this book..
Shauni
To Read more of my Reviews see
Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
In FlashFire we head out to Vegas to find Lorenzo... Lorenzo is a Dragon who really is tired of being a Dragon. He is rather fed up with all the “primitive” aspects and wants to just escape and he has a plan.. Yeah don’t they all. Lorenzo has been in hiding for years from the other Pyr and only recently had he been re discovered because he was in hiding.. and of course what better place to hide than Las Vegas as a magician no less!
Cassie Redmond is a celebrities worst nightmare, she’s paparazzi only one with a conscience.. She is currently taking a small vacation to both to escape from the demands of a soulless job and to offer moral support to her best friend who was dumped by her latest sleazebag boyfriend. Being the good friend that she is, Cassie followed Stacy from venue to venue, until finally getting into Lorenzo’s show.. one of the last few under his contract as he has finally found a way out.. sitting in the front seat, practical, logical, tough girl Cassie is spellbound, not with the magic show she is sure she can figure that out but with the Magician.
Lorenzo has just a handful of days before his great escape, he is on his way out.. only his father is not working with him, it’s a full moon and someone is going to get a Firestorm.. he just didn’t realize it would be him.. Like he needed more complications.. Since he didn’t really believe in most of the “Myths” of the Pyr he figured the Firestorm was a mild inconvenience.. Wham Bam and all that.. *grins* that’s what they all say. Let’s just say the Firestorm is the least of his problems.. Suddenly Vegas is Grand Dragan Central with Pyr, Slayers and the mysterious Sleeper all dropping in for visits.
Cassie and Lorenzo both have trust issues to deal with, as well as basic life decisions to make. Added to the fact that the Slayers have a vacuum at the top and more than one Dragon is after Lorenzo to join the ranks. It is amazing that with all this going on all you see is this great couple trying to figure it all out. The drama of Lorenzo deciding to leave the Pyr or rather wanting to.. is well played out and written into the story most excellently. We get visits from Chen and Balthazar (great name btw) as well as Eric and we see interesting views into Lorenzo’s past. Ms Cooke, also manages to intrigue us with what is happening with Thorolf.. I just love Thorolf so was glad to see him and a peak at Brandon as well.. Chen is very busy in his attempt to master the Pyr.
It’s funny, this book has actually gotten better as I write the review.. It was a good read, entertaining and I liked Lorenzo and Cassie but it is the subplot and the machinations of everyone else that really brings this book to the front. From Salvatore acting in Lorenzo’s best interest to just about everyone BUT Eric questioning his loyalties.. there is plenty of action going on. Loved the fight scenes as well.. great aerial Dragon stuff happening.. and not a little mystical fun. Yes, I recommend this book..
Shauni
To Read more of my Reviews see
Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
February 13, 2012
Lorenzo is an illusionist, deception is his business he’s also a Pyr, a dragon shapeshifter part of a brotherhood of dragons who protect the earth and it’s treasures. He’s been estranged from his brother dragons for a very long time finding the battles between them and their dark enemies the slayers barbaric and he chooses a life of solitude with his father his only close companion. During an eclipse that tells of a Pyr’s firestorm, his uniting with his destined mate it becomes all to clear to Lorenzo that this firestorm has his name on it and he only wants to sate it and move on. But the firestorm is leading him down a path he doesn’t want to journey, a path of commitment and duty and Lorenzo only has a duty to himself.
In the middle of the show Cassie Redmond sees sparks flying from the hand of Lorenzo right to her and it’s causing her no amount of comfort when she’s experiencing lusty thoughts about the magician. It’s not her job as a paparazzi photographer that brought her here to the hot Vegas sun, but she’s not one to look an opportune gift horse in the mouth when her greatest opportunity is changing into a dragon right before her eyes.
Gifted with an ancient spell Lorenzo has one last disappearing act to perform but the woman who attracts all his thoughts is making this decision harder than he would have thought and their firestorm is attracting more that just heat, it’s calling dragons both good and evil into their path and it’s giving Lorenzo and Cassie something that neither of them ever imagined possible, a future. But there’s evil in hiding wanting nothing more than to rid Lorenzo and Cassie of not only the child the firestorm will bring but their very lives as well. Can they win the war or will they be a victim of Flashfire.
Deborah Cooke is a dragon master of a storyteller and her stories only get better as the series goes on and she brings us new and different dragons, the women they must love and the enemies that are trying to get rid of them. In this novel she takes us in a different direction with Lorenzo who’s a showman and secretive at the same time. Lorenzo fills the pages with enigmatic glory only rivaled by his mate Cassie and I did not stop turning pages until the firestorm had ended and the battle between good and evil was once again fought. The dialogue always reminds me a little of Europe and a little of an long ago time and place filled with knights and maidens but there is also something very contemporary about it too and whatever “it” is works very well. The love scenes are hotter than dragonfire both in intensity and in action and what in this novel starts as lust soon grows into something much more permanent as the romance is nurtured by it’s participants. As always she brought me much more than just a mere paranormal romance but a bit of legend, myth and a creed that gives honor to her characters as well.
Deb, thank you so much for another trip to the sky courtesy of dragon wings and I as always look forward to my next journey there.
In the middle of the show Cassie Redmond sees sparks flying from the hand of Lorenzo right to her and it’s causing her no amount of comfort when she’s experiencing lusty thoughts about the magician. It’s not her job as a paparazzi photographer that brought her here to the hot Vegas sun, but she’s not one to look an opportune gift horse in the mouth when her greatest opportunity is changing into a dragon right before her eyes.
Gifted with an ancient spell Lorenzo has one last disappearing act to perform but the woman who attracts all his thoughts is making this decision harder than he would have thought and their firestorm is attracting more that just heat, it’s calling dragons both good and evil into their path and it’s giving Lorenzo and Cassie something that neither of them ever imagined possible, a future. But there’s evil in hiding wanting nothing more than to rid Lorenzo and Cassie of not only the child the firestorm will bring but their very lives as well. Can they win the war or will they be a victim of Flashfire.
Deborah Cooke is a dragon master of a storyteller and her stories only get better as the series goes on and she brings us new and different dragons, the women they must love and the enemies that are trying to get rid of them. In this novel she takes us in a different direction with Lorenzo who’s a showman and secretive at the same time. Lorenzo fills the pages with enigmatic glory only rivaled by his mate Cassie and I did not stop turning pages until the firestorm had ended and the battle between good and evil was once again fought. The dialogue always reminds me a little of Europe and a little of an long ago time and place filled with knights and maidens but there is also something very contemporary about it too and whatever “it” is works very well. The love scenes are hotter than dragonfire both in intensity and in action and what in this novel starts as lust soon grows into something much more permanent as the romance is nurtured by it’s participants. As always she brought me much more than just a mere paranormal romance but a bit of legend, myth and a creed that gives honor to her characters as well.
Deb, thank you so much for another trip to the sky courtesy of dragon wings and I as always look forward to my next journey there.
February 20, 2015
Illusionist Lorenzo is planning a spectacle for his most flamboyant escape ever, one in which he secretly plans to leave his current human alias behind and to sever his hated connection to his Pyr race as well. But even Lorenzo's meticulous planning isn't going to be able to account for the proverbial wrench that his unwanted firestorm throws into the Works, and though he thinks he can thwart it but just surrendering to the sparks that burn between him and his 'mate' paparazzi Cassie, one night is just not going to be enough with the surprising woman who is so wrong for him and who shows up at so wrong a time.
Dragon shifters, yum. It took me a while to warm up to the hero Lorenzo, who has lived life for himself and denied his ties to the Pyr (but refused the Slayers as well) but Lorenzo's initial 'jerkness' actually gave him room to grow and I ended up liking that the 'mates' didn't start out perfect for each other either though there was enough of a hook to draw them back together.
So, I really liked Flashfire even though some bits at the start and finish made me feel a bit sad for some background characters and I am looking forward to the next one and wondering how many Pyr are left to fulfill their destiny.
Dragon shifters, yum. It took me a while to warm up to the hero Lorenzo, who has lived life for himself and denied his ties to the Pyr (but refused the Slayers as well) but Lorenzo's initial 'jerkness' actually gave him room to grow and I ended up liking that the 'mates' didn't start out perfect for each other either though there was enough of a hook to draw them back together.
So, I really liked Flashfire even though some bits at the start and finish made me feel a bit sad for some background characters and I am looking forward to the next one and wondering how many Pyr are left to fulfill their destiny.
January 15, 2012
Flying low on the radar is what master illusionist, Lorenzo, does with his dragon shifting brethren, the PYR. Though flamboyant with his magic show, Lorenzo has planned one last illusion that will take him from PYR senses and their enemies alike. He thinks he has every eye dotted and tee crossed. When his firestorm comes upon him, a time for him to procreate with his destined mate, Lorenzo is not prepared for the beautiful Cassie Redmond. Though he sates his firestorm, Lorenzo cannot seem to stay away from Cassie. Slayers and PYR alike descend upon the Las Vegas site for Lorenzo's last big hurrah...will he and Cassie find a chance for a HEA? Or will they be destined to fail with all the outside influences coming at them from many different and unexpected directions?
I am soooo in love with Deborah Cooke's PYR tales. Zoe Sorensson's books set in the YA genre are riveting, as she is the next and only female PYR. If you want to fly with dragons and fall in love with warrior PYR...Jump on the wagon with those of us who love this wonderful series...Looking forward to "Ember's Kiss" coming in Oct. 2012.
I am soooo in love with Deborah Cooke's PYR tales. Zoe Sorensson's books set in the YA genre are riveting, as she is the next and only female PYR. If you want to fly with dragons and fall in love with warrior PYR...Jump on the wagon with those of us who love this wonderful series...Looking forward to "Ember's Kiss" coming in Oct. 2012.
May 10, 2012
This was a pretty good addition to the series. I do think thought you would be totally lost if you haven't read the others in the series. I thought that Lorenzo was a bit of a whiner but he wasn't too bad. The heroine, Cassie, was interesting. The story had a bit tighter of a focus on the main couple than the last book did but there was still a lot of the overarching story going on. The thing I disliked most was
This is an interesting and fun series but it isn't to die for romantic. I love picturing all the different colored dragons.
This is an interesting and fun series but it isn't to die for romantic. I love picturing all the different colored dragons.
May 5, 2012
I really liked this book. Lorenzo and Cassie are a great couple and they're also great characters. The story line is great and a little bit different than the rest of the series because Lorenzo does not belong to the Pyr as the other dragons did. Lorenzo just wants to ignore his gift and his and the fact that he is a shape-shifter and so he works as an illusionist.
The book was so easily readable that I couldn't put it down. There were some developments regarding the plans of the Slayers and I'm curious to see where they'll take us. I'm sure it will be an interesting road.
I'm happy - Deborah Cooke succeeded in giving me various moments of laughter and relaxation.
The book was so easily readable that I couldn't put it down. There were some developments regarding the plans of the Slayers and I'm curious to see where they'll take us. I'm sure it will be an interesting road.
I'm happy - Deborah Cooke succeeded in giving me various moments of laughter and relaxation.
February 16, 2012
The worst one so far!
November 22, 2018
Lorenzo has tried all of his life to deny what he sees as the barbaric nature of his kind, the Pyr Dragon Shifters. That all changes when, during his Las Vegas magic act, he experiences the unmistakable rush of his firestorm, in the person of Cassie Redmond, a celebrity photographer. Believing his best course is to satisfy the firestorm and move on, Lorenzo and Cassie share a mutually gratifying interlude and both expect to go on with their lives unchanged. However, they find themselves unable to stay away from each other, and when Cassie is threatened by a Slayer, Lorenzo gives in to his instinct to protect the woman he increasingly sees as his mate. Furthering the saga of the Pyr and the Slayers, Chen becomes an increasing threat to the Pyr and to humanity, with only the Pyr standing in his way. As always, the story is well written, with rounded, fully realized characters, and a story line that keeps you in suspense to the end. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.
August 20, 2018
Despite being the 1st book that I chanced upon in this series, it was an intriguing introduction to the dragon shifters. I liked Cassie's independent streak which left Lorenzo a little unprepared for her reaction. However, I agree with some readers on the connection between Lorenzo and Cassie, their emotional spark seem forced in my opinion where it does not leave me rooting for them to be together. As an individual, their character came out stronger rather than being as a duo. In addition, I liked the author's injection of Lorenzo's family past which brings a certain light on his animosity with his father. Finally, it is a good first book for me where I will continue in search of finding the best "dragon shifter" that I will love from this series.
August 28, 2018
This was such a great, well-written book. Cassie is tired of her career taking pictures of celebrities and is on vacation in Las Vegas. Lorenzo is a master illusionist who wants nothing to do with his Pyr nature. When Cassie and Lorenzo meet they are carried away by passion - and Lorenzo's firestorm. He intends to just move on but finds it's not that easy. This is book 8 in the Dragonfire Novels series. I can't wait to read the next book in the series and look forward to reading other books by this author.
November 5, 2021
Estás diciéndome que no me has contado la historia de Sloane y vas a pasarte a un estúpido dragón que a penas conozco??? A quien le importa Lorenzo! Si vas a torturarme con historias repetitivas sobre parejas predestinadas, que al principio dudan de su amor, para que luego TODAS terminen juntas, podrías por lo menos cerrar el círculo de los dragones originales. Mi único consuelo es que ya casi termino con toda la saga.
April 20, 2018
Lorenzo isn't very likeable the first part of the book and Cassie is pretty disillusioned and critical. Lorenzo doesn't want his firestorm and uses his ability to beguile to get it done and over with. Meanwhile various bad guys are messing with him and he wants nothing to do with his dragon heritage and makes plans forever rid himself of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2017
pretty good over all. But I have now read 7 books in this series and I think they need to stop while they are ahead. they are beginning to feel a little repetitive to me. that happens a lot with long series. But still an ok read
June 7, 2018
EXCELLENT!!! A few sex scenes but nothing over the top for me. Again...I will be looking for the next installment!
February 25, 2012
FLASHFIRE by Deborah Cooke (spoilers)
FLASHFIRE is the 7th installment in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. The continuing saga of the Pyr vs Slayer in the war to save the human race, and dominance in the world of dragons features the elusive Lorenzo and his Firestorm. Lorenzo wants nothing to do with his Firestorm, because it has come at an inconvenient time in his life--he does not need to find his mate just before he disappears from the face of the earth.
Cassie Redmond has come to Las Vegas with her friend Stacy. The cancellation of her wedding, was not going to derail her honeymoon, so she and her friend would take full advantage of the hotel and tickets--Cassie would make this a working vacation. But when sparks literally fly between Cassie and the gorgeous illusionist Lorenzo, she knows this isn’t any ordinary magic show. And when he shifts into a shimmering golden dragon, her job as a reporter, has taken on new meaning.
Lorenzo is surprised when, it is HIS Firestorm that hits during the eclipse, but is even more shocked that he was unable to control his change during a live presentation of his Vegas act of illusion. His plans to disappear during a live taping of a burial stunt, have now been hindered by the arrival of his mate and the need to sate the Firestorm. Following a night of insatiable sex between Lorenzo and Cassie, he realizes he wants nothing to do with the responsibilities of having a mate or a family--He still blames his father for the death of his mother, and does not want the responsibility of having to worry about a mate and child, every time he is called away.
Lorenzo is a reluctant dragon. He refuses to join the Pyr in their fight against the Slayers, and had all but given-up shifting, but finding his mate and the realization that she is now pregnant, has put them both in a dangerous position. The Slayers as well as the Pyr will be attracted to his Firestorm, and the resulting confrontation will risk both mother and child. To further complicate matters, a Slayer named Jean-Paul has now involved Cassie’s friend Stacy in their game of good vs evil. When Lorenzo scents 2 other Slayers (Chen and Balthazar) in the vicinity of his mate, he calls to the Pyr for assistance. Lorenzo is without knowledge of the Pyr’s history, as well, he doe not believe the many myths and legends surrounding Dragon lore, therefore, the need to ask for aid from his own kind, is both humbling and enlightening.
Like the other storylines in this series, there is a struggle between the Pyr and the Slayers. Chen, an ancient Slayer, seeks to find those dragons, who are having difficulty with their allegiances to the Pyr, offering them a chance to fight against those, who claim to protect earth. But Chen is searching for the ‘bones’ of the dead Pyr—to make ‘Dragon’s Blood Powder’-a powerful aphrodisiac and a means to control.
The appearance of Marco, another ancient Pyr, looking for the Darkfire crystal puts Lorenzo on edge. The crystal has been in Lorenzo’s custody for safe-keeping, but it seems, his ailing father has been playing games with their hoarde. The missing crystal has, further complicated Lorenzo’s need to disappear. Slayers, the Pyr, missing crystals, his Firestorm and now a child and mate, push Lorenzo to the edge of his patience. The need to disappear is now more of a necessity than a stunt.
Flashfire is another great story in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. Once again, we see Erik and his struggles as leader of the Pyr; the ever-popular Thorulf is missing, but the others are not too worried; and we get a glimpse at Brandt, a dragon, who was not too happy with the role he played in Lorenzo’s fight with the Slayers. We become aware of the other Pyr, through conversation only, and we are apprised of their whereabouts when necessity dictates, although, they gather for Lorenzo’s unveiling in Venice. I missed the interactions between the Pyr-I was hoping for the appearances of Donovan, Quinn, Delaney and the others, but the celebration in Italy is the only time we get re-acquainted with the characters from the previous storylines I hope Thorulf gets HIS Firestorm soon….his story should bring everyone together…..again.
Sandy
FLASHFIRE is the 7th installment in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. The continuing saga of the Pyr vs Slayer in the war to save the human race, and dominance in the world of dragons features the elusive Lorenzo and his Firestorm. Lorenzo wants nothing to do with his Firestorm, because it has come at an inconvenient time in his life--he does not need to find his mate just before he disappears from the face of the earth.
Cassie Redmond has come to Las Vegas with her friend Stacy. The cancellation of her wedding, was not going to derail her honeymoon, so she and her friend would take full advantage of the hotel and tickets--Cassie would make this a working vacation. But when sparks literally fly between Cassie and the gorgeous illusionist Lorenzo, she knows this isn’t any ordinary magic show. And when he shifts into a shimmering golden dragon, her job as a reporter, has taken on new meaning.
Lorenzo is surprised when, it is HIS Firestorm that hits during the eclipse, but is even more shocked that he was unable to control his change during a live presentation of his Vegas act of illusion. His plans to disappear during a live taping of a burial stunt, have now been hindered by the arrival of his mate and the need to sate the Firestorm. Following a night of insatiable sex between Lorenzo and Cassie, he realizes he wants nothing to do with the responsibilities of having a mate or a family--He still blames his father for the death of his mother, and does not want the responsibility of having to worry about a mate and child, every time he is called away.
Lorenzo is a reluctant dragon. He refuses to join the Pyr in their fight against the Slayers, and had all but given-up shifting, but finding his mate and the realization that she is now pregnant, has put them both in a dangerous position. The Slayers as well as the Pyr will be attracted to his Firestorm, and the resulting confrontation will risk both mother and child. To further complicate matters, a Slayer named Jean-Paul has now involved Cassie’s friend Stacy in their game of good vs evil. When Lorenzo scents 2 other Slayers (Chen and Balthazar) in the vicinity of his mate, he calls to the Pyr for assistance. Lorenzo is without knowledge of the Pyr’s history, as well, he doe not believe the many myths and legends surrounding Dragon lore, therefore, the need to ask for aid from his own kind, is both humbling and enlightening.
Like the other storylines in this series, there is a struggle between the Pyr and the Slayers. Chen, an ancient Slayer, seeks to find those dragons, who are having difficulty with their allegiances to the Pyr, offering them a chance to fight against those, who claim to protect earth. But Chen is searching for the ‘bones’ of the dead Pyr—to make ‘Dragon’s Blood Powder’-a powerful aphrodisiac and a means to control.
The appearance of Marco, another ancient Pyr, looking for the Darkfire crystal puts Lorenzo on edge. The crystal has been in Lorenzo’s custody for safe-keeping, but it seems, his ailing father has been playing games with their hoarde. The missing crystal has, further complicated Lorenzo’s need to disappear. Slayers, the Pyr, missing crystals, his Firestorm and now a child and mate, push Lorenzo to the edge of his patience. The need to disappear is now more of a necessity than a stunt.
Flashfire is another great story in Deborah Cooke’s Dragonfire series. Once again, we see Erik and his struggles as leader of the Pyr; the ever-popular Thorulf is missing, but the others are not too worried; and we get a glimpse at Brandt, a dragon, who was not too happy with the role he played in Lorenzo’s fight with the Slayers. We become aware of the other Pyr, through conversation only, and we are apprised of their whereabouts when necessity dictates, although, they gather for Lorenzo’s unveiling in Venice. I missed the interactions between the Pyr-I was hoping for the appearances of Donovan, Quinn, Delaney and the others, but the celebration in Italy is the only time we get re-acquainted with the characters from the previous storylines I hope Thorulf gets HIS Firestorm soon….his story should bring everyone together…..again.
Sandy
January 9, 2012
On vacation in Las Vegas with her best friend Stacy, Cassie thinks all the glitz and glam of Sin City is as fake as the celebrities she photographs. Going to a show staring an illusionist is not her idea of fun but what she's about to see will change her life in a way she never imagined.
Lorenzo doesn't like being a dragon and wants nothing to do with his fellow Pyr. Just days away from his greatest illusion that will result in the freedom he's always craved, Lorenzo experiences the firestorm he never wanted. He sees Cassie, his fated mate, in the audience and sweeps her off her feet after shifting into his powerful dragon form. What he believes will be a simple seduction turns into an ever increasing desire to want something more with Cassie and when his enemies set their sights on her, Lorenzo will choose between a future he's always wanted and the woman he doesn't want to live without.
I've always fallen for the heroes in this series rather quickly, that is until now. I had a hard time liking Lorenzo's character and even after finishing the book, I can't say I'm that big of a fan. From the moment you first meet him you know that, with exception of his father, he's only in it for himself. He has distanced himself from all things Pyr and during and after his firestorm, a sign that a Pry has met his destined mate and ends once she's pregnant, he's only concerned with how it affects him and his future plans, not thinking about what this all means for Cassie. I'll give him credit, he does becomes less arrogant and self-centered as the story unfolds but he never really wins me over.
Cassie on the other hand I really liked. She's practical, hard working and to the point. She's the opposite of the women Lorenzo is use to falling at his feet and I loved how she was able to get into his head and throw his world off balance. She was also brave when things took a dangerous turn. Chen, a dragon shifter who is looking to take power away from the Pyr's leader Eric and cause havoc among humans, is attempting to recruit Lorenzo to his side. When he learns of his firestorm, Chen decides to go after Cassie as a way to force Lorenzo's hand. Cassie is among creatures who could easily hurt her and I thought she kept it together better than I ever would. As for her relationship with Lorenzo, I can't say I felt any strong, genuine love between them seeing how everything takes place in just a couple days but they sure knew how to make a girl blush. Each sexual encounter grew hotter and hotter and was probably a big reason why I never completely hated Lorenzo.
Chen and his minions are attempting to find and convince other dragons to fight against Eric and it's not just Lorenzo they're after. Lover of a good party and pretty women Thorolf and new comer Brandon each have a role to play in his plans. Chen is such a great villain because you're never really sure what to expect from him. He's a master at throwing curve balls and surviving fights you're sure he'd lose. I look forward to seeing what he has in store next for the Pyr.
Though Lorenzo and I didn't connect, I still really enjoyed Flashfire. Cassie was a fantastic heroine who managed the monumental task of making Lorenzo a little less selfish and help reunite him with his kind. Really great and I hope to see her in future books. The story was thrilling and unpredictable and Flashfire is another great addiction to one of my favorite paranormal romance series. As usual I suggest going back and starting with book one so you don't miss anything.
-Stephanie
Lorenzo doesn't like being a dragon and wants nothing to do with his fellow Pyr. Just days away from his greatest illusion that will result in the freedom he's always craved, Lorenzo experiences the firestorm he never wanted. He sees Cassie, his fated mate, in the audience and sweeps her off her feet after shifting into his powerful dragon form. What he believes will be a simple seduction turns into an ever increasing desire to want something more with Cassie and when his enemies set their sights on her, Lorenzo will choose between a future he's always wanted and the woman he doesn't want to live without.
I've always fallen for the heroes in this series rather quickly, that is until now. I had a hard time liking Lorenzo's character and even after finishing the book, I can't say I'm that big of a fan. From the moment you first meet him you know that, with exception of his father, he's only in it for himself. He has distanced himself from all things Pyr and during and after his firestorm, a sign that a Pry has met his destined mate and ends once she's pregnant, he's only concerned with how it affects him and his future plans, not thinking about what this all means for Cassie. I'll give him credit, he does becomes less arrogant and self-centered as the story unfolds but he never really wins me over.
Cassie on the other hand I really liked. She's practical, hard working and to the point. She's the opposite of the women Lorenzo is use to falling at his feet and I loved how she was able to get into his head and throw his world off balance. She was also brave when things took a dangerous turn. Chen, a dragon shifter who is looking to take power away from the Pyr's leader Eric and cause havoc among humans, is attempting to recruit Lorenzo to his side. When he learns of his firestorm, Chen decides to go after Cassie as a way to force Lorenzo's hand. Cassie is among creatures who could easily hurt her and I thought she kept it together better than I ever would. As for her relationship with Lorenzo, I can't say I felt any strong, genuine love between them seeing how everything takes place in just a couple days but they sure knew how to make a girl blush. Each sexual encounter grew hotter and hotter and was probably a big reason why I never completely hated Lorenzo.
Chen and his minions are attempting to find and convince other dragons to fight against Eric and it's not just Lorenzo they're after. Lover of a good party and pretty women Thorolf and new comer Brandon each have a role to play in his plans. Chen is such a great villain because you're never really sure what to expect from him. He's a master at throwing curve balls and surviving fights you're sure he'd lose. I look forward to seeing what he has in store next for the Pyr.
Though Lorenzo and I didn't connect, I still really enjoyed Flashfire. Cassie was a fantastic heroine who managed the monumental task of making Lorenzo a little less selfish and help reunite him with his kind. Really great and I hope to see her in future books. The story was thrilling and unpredictable and Flashfire is another great addiction to one of my favorite paranormal romance series. As usual I suggest going back and starting with book one so you don't miss anything.
-Stephanie
January 26, 2012
Flashfire, Dragonfire #7, by Deborah Crooke
Grade: C-
“I refuse to have my life and my choices shaped by fear.”
“A team. She’d never had a partner or confident before, not like this, and Cassie liked the prospect a lot.”
Lorenzo is a Pry, a shape-shifting dragon, and uses his powers in his Las Vegas show as a magician. Lorenzo maybe a Pry but he has refused for hundreds of years to join their cause defending humans against Slayers, shape-shifting dragons who want to destroy mankind, and wants nothing but to be left alone. Lorenzo is gearing up for his biggest illusion yet, one that will help both himself and his father disappear and start a new life. Lorenzo never expected just days before his big disappearance to have his mate attend one of his shows and for the firestorm that happens between mates to occur.
Cassie Redmond needed a vacation and that’s how she ended up with her best friend in Las Vegas, Nevada and at the show of master illusionist Lorenzo’s show. Never did Cassie expect sparks to literally fly between the two or for the intense passion that would later follow. Now that Cassie has been revealed as Lorenzo’s mate both the Pry and Slayers want to use her to get him to join their side. While the Pry want her help the Slayers will use force and try to force Lorenzo’s hand to make a decision that could change the world as we know it.
I had a very hard time with this book. I usually try not to read books that are so far along in a series that I have not read and I should have known better then to try and pick up this series with book seven. I felt very, very lost for the first fifty pages about the Pry and Slayers and was actually surprised that there wasn’t any explanation about who they were except that both were dragon shape shifters. I wish that there would have been a glossary of terms included because I feel that it would have eased a lot of my confusion about who and what things were.
Once I figured out what was going on I really enjoyed the first half of this book. I really enjoyed both Cassie and Lorenzo and found the firestorm, sparks that show a mate, really interesting. I liked that it took Lorenzo a while to see how beautiful and strong Cassie was but I didn’t like that he fought so hard against having a relationship with her. There were many times when I wanted Cassie to get mad at him and tell him to take a hike and when she finally did it was too late for me.
As I mentioned before I really liked the first half of this book but the second half, for me, was really bad and almost unreadable. I was so bored and annoyed with everything that was going on that all I wanted was for the book to end. I thought there was almost too much going on and then add in that I was already confused I just kind of gave up caring or trying to figure everything out.
I love paranormal romance books especially ones that involve dragons which is why I was so excited to read Flashfire but I found this one way too confusing, with way too much going on and not enough explanation of the world of the Pry and Slayers. I never fell in love with the characters and the story and had no desire to try and get lost in the plot. I do not recommend reading this book if you have not read this series before and credit most of my confusion and dislike of the book from trying to jump into what seems to be a complex world of dragon shifters.
Grade: C-
“I refuse to have my life and my choices shaped by fear.”
“A team. She’d never had a partner or confident before, not like this, and Cassie liked the prospect a lot.”
Lorenzo is a Pry, a shape-shifting dragon, and uses his powers in his Las Vegas show as a magician. Lorenzo maybe a Pry but he has refused for hundreds of years to join their cause defending humans against Slayers, shape-shifting dragons who want to destroy mankind, and wants nothing but to be left alone. Lorenzo is gearing up for his biggest illusion yet, one that will help both himself and his father disappear and start a new life. Lorenzo never expected just days before his big disappearance to have his mate attend one of his shows and for the firestorm that happens between mates to occur.
Cassie Redmond needed a vacation and that’s how she ended up with her best friend in Las Vegas, Nevada and at the show of master illusionist Lorenzo’s show. Never did Cassie expect sparks to literally fly between the two or for the intense passion that would later follow. Now that Cassie has been revealed as Lorenzo’s mate both the Pry and Slayers want to use her to get him to join their side. While the Pry want her help the Slayers will use force and try to force Lorenzo’s hand to make a decision that could change the world as we know it.
I had a very hard time with this book. I usually try not to read books that are so far along in a series that I have not read and I should have known better then to try and pick up this series with book seven. I felt very, very lost for the first fifty pages about the Pry and Slayers and was actually surprised that there wasn’t any explanation about who they were except that both were dragon shape shifters. I wish that there would have been a glossary of terms included because I feel that it would have eased a lot of my confusion about who and what things were.
Once I figured out what was going on I really enjoyed the first half of this book. I really enjoyed both Cassie and Lorenzo and found the firestorm, sparks that show a mate, really interesting. I liked that it took Lorenzo a while to see how beautiful and strong Cassie was but I didn’t like that he fought so hard against having a relationship with her. There were many times when I wanted Cassie to get mad at him and tell him to take a hike and when she finally did it was too late for me.
As I mentioned before I really liked the first half of this book but the second half, for me, was really bad and almost unreadable. I was so bored and annoyed with everything that was going on that all I wanted was for the book to end. I thought there was almost too much going on and then add in that I was already confused I just kind of gave up caring or trying to figure everything out.
I love paranormal romance books especially ones that involve dragons which is why I was so excited to read Flashfire but I found this one way too confusing, with way too much going on and not enough explanation of the world of the Pry and Slayers. I never fell in love with the characters and the story and had no desire to try and get lost in the plot. I do not recommend reading this book if you have not read this series before and credit most of my confusion and dislike of the book from trying to jump into what seems to be a complex world of dragon shifters.
January 7, 2012
Flashfire is Book 7 in Deborah Cooke’s popular DragonFire series and once again Ms Cooke has taken us for an enjoyable ride. The DragonFire Series is unique one that follows the lives of the Pyr who protect the earth.. their sole purpose in this live is to care for her, nurture her and respect her resources. Somewhere along the line they split.. now there are Pyr who follow the old ways and Slayers who, well don’t. Of course there is a constant battle of good vs. evil
In FlashFire we head out to Vegas to find Lorenzo... Lorenzo is a Dragon who really is tired of being a Dragon. He is rather fed up with all the “primitive” aspects and wants to just escape and he has a plan.. Yeah don’t they all. Lorenzo has been in hiding for years from the other Pyr and only recently had he been re discovered because he was in hiding.. and of course what better place to hide than Las Vegas as a magician no less!
Cassie Redmond is a celebrities worst nightmare, she’s paparazzi only one with a conscience.. She is currently taking a small vacation to both to escape from the demands of a soulless job and to offer moral support to her best friend who was dumped by her latest sleazebag boyfriend. Being the good friend that she is, Cassie followed Stacy from venue to venue, until finally getting into Lorenzo’s show.. one of the last few under his contract as he has finally found a way out.. sitting in the front seat, practical, logical, tough girl Cassie is spellbound, not with the magic show she is sure she can figure that out but with the Magician
**********************************************************
Cassie and Lorenzo both have trust issues to deal with, as well as basic life decisions to make. Added to the fact that the Slayers have a vacuum at the top and more than one Dragon is after Lorenzo to join the ranks. It is amazing that with all this going on all you see is this great couple trying to figure it all out. The drama of Lorenzo deciding to leave the Pyr or rather wanting to.. is well played out and written into the story most excellently. We get visits from Chen and Balthazar (great name btw) as well as Eric and we see interesting views into Lorenzo’s past. Ms Cooke, also manages to intrigue us with what is happening with Thorolf.. I just love Thorolf so was glad to see him and a peak at Brandon as well.. Chen is very busy in his attempt to master the Pyr.
It’s funny, this book has actually gotten better as I write the review.. It was a good read, entertaining and I liked Lorenzo and Cassie but it is the subplot and the machinations of everyone else that really brings this book to the front. From Salvatore acting in Lorenzo’s best interest to just about everyone BUT Eric questioning his loyalties.. there is plenty of action going on. Loved the fight scenes as well.. great aerial Dragon stuff happening.. and not a little mystical fun. Yes, I recommend this book..
Shauni
to read this review in it's entirety go to Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
In FlashFire we head out to Vegas to find Lorenzo... Lorenzo is a Dragon who really is tired of being a Dragon. He is rather fed up with all the “primitive” aspects and wants to just escape and he has a plan.. Yeah don’t they all. Lorenzo has been in hiding for years from the other Pyr and only recently had he been re discovered because he was in hiding.. and of course what better place to hide than Las Vegas as a magician no less!
Cassie Redmond is a celebrities worst nightmare, she’s paparazzi only one with a conscience.. She is currently taking a small vacation to both to escape from the demands of a soulless job and to offer moral support to her best friend who was dumped by her latest sleazebag boyfriend. Being the good friend that she is, Cassie followed Stacy from venue to venue, until finally getting into Lorenzo’s show.. one of the last few under his contract as he has finally found a way out.. sitting in the front seat, practical, logical, tough girl Cassie is spellbound, not with the magic show she is sure she can figure that out but with the Magician
**********************************************************
Cassie and Lorenzo both have trust issues to deal with, as well as basic life decisions to make. Added to the fact that the Slayers have a vacuum at the top and more than one Dragon is after Lorenzo to join the ranks. It is amazing that with all this going on all you see is this great couple trying to figure it all out. The drama of Lorenzo deciding to leave the Pyr or rather wanting to.. is well played out and written into the story most excellently. We get visits from Chen and Balthazar (great name btw) as well as Eric and we see interesting views into Lorenzo’s past. Ms Cooke, also manages to intrigue us with what is happening with Thorolf.. I just love Thorolf so was glad to see him and a peak at Brandon as well.. Chen is very busy in his attempt to master the Pyr.
It’s funny, this book has actually gotten better as I write the review.. It was a good read, entertaining and I liked Lorenzo and Cassie but it is the subplot and the machinations of everyone else that really brings this book to the front. From Salvatore acting in Lorenzo’s best interest to just about everyone BUT Eric questioning his loyalties.. there is plenty of action going on. Loved the fight scenes as well.. great aerial Dragon stuff happening.. and not a little mystical fun. Yes, I recommend this book..
Shauni
to read this review in it's entirety go to Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
June 27, 2012
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I didn’t know this series at all, so it was a pleasure to discover a book written by Deborah Cooke. I’m always pretty difficult with paranormal romance books as I’m so picky. But what can I say about this one? I was completely surprised by this novel. When I think I didn’t even know the author… Now I really want to discover the other books, as the next ones.
I really loved this story and I confess I finished it quite fast. As soon as we get into the book, we’re hooked by the rhythm of the story and it’s therefore difficult to put it down before the end. It may be due to the fact that the novel features two characters we can only love. Lorenzo is a famous magician but in the same time a real dragon. However, he doesn’t like his nature and it’s for him more a disadvantage than something else. And when everyone wants him to choose between the two clans: the Slayers or the Pyr, he refuses to be part of that. But “no” isn’t an answer the others take well and Lorenzo will see the consequences all along the book. He is a stubborn man, determined for his decisions, good and bad, but he is also loyal when we know him. It was a pleasure to see him change all along the story, to be at first a selfish man, and to become more gentle and understanding.
Cassie is a paparazzi on holidays in Las Vegas. She will meet Lorenzo for the first time during a magic show, where of course she assists quite disinterested. Indeed, she will ask our magician something complicated that will disturb our photograph as well. Cassie and Lorenzo are perfect together, she is as determined as him and once she decides something, nothing can stop her. The dragons are a fascinating topic for our heroin, and she will do everything to discover the secrets of our hero. It was a pleasure to follow her in this book; she is a strong woman who imposes her choices. She will dare to stand against our dragon and face him as no one else. She exactly knows what she wants. Cassie will find herself in a new world she doesn’t know anything about but when she lives in it quite easily.
Of course, there will also be a lot of surprises about the story. We try to understand from the start why everyone wants Lorenzo, because I have to say there are a lot of persons and each wants a specific thing.
Well, I think you understood I really enjoyed this seventh book and these amazing characters. The writing style is fluid and the story interesting. A good series to discover!
My English review
I didn’t know this series at all, so it was a pleasure to discover a book written by Deborah Cooke. I’m always pretty difficult with paranormal romance books as I’m so picky. But what can I say about this one? I was completely surprised by this novel. When I think I didn’t even know the author… Now I really want to discover the other books, as the next ones.
I really loved this story and I confess I finished it quite fast. As soon as we get into the book, we’re hooked by the rhythm of the story and it’s therefore difficult to put it down before the end. It may be due to the fact that the novel features two characters we can only love. Lorenzo is a famous magician but in the same time a real dragon. However, he doesn’t like his nature and it’s for him more a disadvantage than something else. And when everyone wants him to choose between the two clans: the Slayers or the Pyr, he refuses to be part of that. But “no” isn’t an answer the others take well and Lorenzo will see the consequences all along the book. He is a stubborn man, determined for his decisions, good and bad, but he is also loyal when we know him. It was a pleasure to see him change all along the story, to be at first a selfish man, and to become more gentle and understanding.
Cassie is a paparazzi on holidays in Las Vegas. She will meet Lorenzo for the first time during a magic show, where of course she assists quite disinterested. Indeed, she will ask our magician something complicated that will disturb our photograph as well. Cassie and Lorenzo are perfect together, she is as determined as him and once she decides something, nothing can stop her. The dragons are a fascinating topic for our heroin, and she will do everything to discover the secrets of our hero. It was a pleasure to follow her in this book; she is a strong woman who imposes her choices. She will dare to stand against our dragon and face him as no one else. She exactly knows what she wants. Cassie will find herself in a new world she doesn’t know anything about but when she lives in it quite easily.
Of course, there will also be a lot of surprises about the story. We try to understand from the start why everyone wants Lorenzo, because I have to say there are a lot of persons and each wants a specific thing.
Well, I think you understood I really enjoyed this seventh book and these amazing characters. The writing style is fluid and the story interesting. A good series to discover!
January 14, 2012
Wow! I absolutely loved “Flashfire.” This book is very different from the others as Lorenzo, dragon–warrior, is neither Pyr or Slayer. Instead, he lives in Las Vegas performing as an illusionist. He’s been alone for centuries and he doesn’t want that to change and he certainly doesn’t care or want to be part of the war between Pyr and Slayers. However, that’s all about to change as his firestorm has just erupted. Enter Cassie, a photographer on vacation with her best friend. Unlike her friend and everyone else around her, Cassie isn’t impressed with Lorenzo’s tricks. Nevertheless, Cassie can’t figure out the sudden sexual feelings she has for the man. As far as Lorenzo is concerned, he just wants to satisfy the firestorm. When he does, he still finds himself drawn to Cassie wanting her even more, to the point where he doesn’t want her to be with anyone but himself. When the Slayers target Cassie, Lorenzo has no choice but to admit to himself that he’s in love with her, and in order to save her, he needs the help of his fellow Pyr.
I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be more exciting than a couple of the other novels in the series. We were introduced to Lorenzo in the previous novel “Darkfire Kiss” where he had a minor role. For Cooke to integrate Lorenzo into the mix by creating his own firestorm was intriguing and compelling. Not to mention that I love his character. He’s a loner. He’s not like the other Pyr, part of group or family. However, because of his firestorm and a sudden turn of events, he realizes that not every person is corrupt, selfish and evil; that there are good and honest people who won’t turn on him; and that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help and helping those in need like his fellow Pyr. As for the heroine, Cassie, I thought “Finally!” A heroine who doesn’t come across as pompous, a know-it-all, a woman who doesn’t always have to be kicking ass, or declares her love immediately after sleeping with a man. Instead, I found her to be a very “real,” genuine person. Lorenzo and Cassie make a terrific couple and you can definitely feel the heat between them.
I highly recommend this book and the series if you enjoy reading paranormal-romance. If you’re not familiar with the series, start with Book 1 “Kiss of Fire.” You won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait for “Ember’s Kiss,” which is due to come out in October, 2012.
I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be more exciting than a couple of the other novels in the series. We were introduced to Lorenzo in the previous novel “Darkfire Kiss” where he had a minor role. For Cooke to integrate Lorenzo into the mix by creating his own firestorm was intriguing and compelling. Not to mention that I love his character. He’s a loner. He’s not like the other Pyr, part of group or family. However, because of his firestorm and a sudden turn of events, he realizes that not every person is corrupt, selfish and evil; that there are good and honest people who won’t turn on him; and that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help and helping those in need like his fellow Pyr. As for the heroine, Cassie, I thought “Finally!” A heroine who doesn’t come across as pompous, a know-it-all, a woman who doesn’t always have to be kicking ass, or declares her love immediately after sleeping with a man. Instead, I found her to be a very “real,” genuine person. Lorenzo and Cassie make a terrific couple and you can definitely feel the heat between them.
I highly recommend this book and the series if you enjoy reading paranormal-romance. If you’re not familiar with the series, start with Book 1 “Kiss of Fire.” You won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait for “Ember’s Kiss,” which is due to come out in October, 2012.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2012
Lorenzo is one of the premier magic/al illusion acts in Las Vegas. His shows are always sellouts and he has successfully hid his dragon nature for centuries. He does use his natural affinity for fire in his shows, but when sparks fly between him and a young woman in the audience, he realizes his Firestorm is upon him, at a most Inopportune time!
Photographer Cassie Redmond is on vacation with her best friend, but her boss has given her a huge financial incentive to try and get one of the Pyr (dragon shifters) photographed in mid shift from human to dragon. Tired of being a papparazzi tabloid photographer, she would love to take the money and take photos for artistic purposes, instead of hounding celebrities for a living. Only one problem, she doesn't believe that the Pyr are real, even though they have made an appearance to avert and aid in disasters recently. When her friend acquires tickets to a sold out show, the sceptic in her tries to see past Lorenzo's illusions, but the literal sparks that come her way bring on a different heat in her.
When a Firestorm occurs, all dragons feel it! Even the Slayers can sense another's Firestorm, only they want to stop it by killing the woman who is the potential mate to the Pyr. So as Lorenzo is trying to stage a spectacular feat, he feels the need to protect Cassie along with sating their Firestorm!
This was a fun read. Lorenzo has long been a loner, not wanting to take sides in the war between the Slayers and Pyr, though both sides have tried to recruit him. His dragon nature that he has denied for so long, will not be denied after his Firestorm begins, and there is risk to his mate. I really liked Lorenzo, and that he was looking out for his father, even amongst everything he was dealing with. Loved his dad, and how he gets involved in helping Cassie in his own way. I also loved the mystery of the painting in his home!
Photographer Cassie Redmond is on vacation with her best friend, but her boss has given her a huge financial incentive to try and get one of the Pyr (dragon shifters) photographed in mid shift from human to dragon. Tired of being a papparazzi tabloid photographer, she would love to take the money and take photos for artistic purposes, instead of hounding celebrities for a living. Only one problem, she doesn't believe that the Pyr are real, even though they have made an appearance to avert and aid in disasters recently. When her friend acquires tickets to a sold out show, the sceptic in her tries to see past Lorenzo's illusions, but the literal sparks that come her way bring on a different heat in her.
When a Firestorm occurs, all dragons feel it! Even the Slayers can sense another's Firestorm, only they want to stop it by killing the woman who is the potential mate to the Pyr. So as Lorenzo is trying to stage a spectacular feat, he feels the need to protect Cassie along with sating their Firestorm!
This was a fun read. Lorenzo has long been a loner, not wanting to take sides in the war between the Slayers and Pyr, though both sides have tried to recruit him. His dragon nature that he has denied for so long, will not be denied after his Firestorm begins, and there is risk to his mate. I really liked Lorenzo, and that he was looking out for his father, even amongst everything he was dealing with. Loved his dad, and how he gets involved in helping Cassie in his own way. I also loved the mystery of the painting in his home!
September 30, 2017
I love Lorenzo. I didn't quite love this book as much as I have earlier books, but it was nice to see some things going "back to normal" after the train-wreck the previous book was. What makes me the most sad, is that I now have to wait for the next book in the series. I love nothing more than going from one book to the other in a series, without taking any breaks unless I want to. I'm not very good at being patient when it comes to books.
I'm the first to admit I was skeptical when starting to read this book. Magic shows? Phony tricks? Yeah, not the biggest fan of those. Although the magic shows were a big part of the story for a while there, it wasn't the main focus.
What I do like about Ms Cooke's writing, is that she's really good at making the stories about the people, not about all circumstantial stuff. You get your action here, you get your blood and gore - but at the heart of it all, it's about the characters. It's about connecting with the book through the main players. And in a way, connecting with the author.
Lorenzo is the character that undergoes the biggest change in this book. Over the course of the book, he does a complete 180. He accepts himself, and finds peace in his own skin. You'd think would undergo about the same amount of change. Not at all. She only becomes even more secure in her own skin.
I kind of liked that there was a notable absence of the other Pyr in this book, with the exception of a couple characters. With less characters to keep track of, it made for a more peaceful read and I was able to enjoy reading the book that much more.
A few more bad guys see the end of days, and the somewhat new'ish character Chen gets to live to see another day. And another book.
We're also introduced to a new character in this book. By the looks of it, we'll get to know Brandon more in the next book. Which I'm patiently impatient to be released. :D
I'm the first to admit I was skeptical when starting to read this book. Magic shows? Phony tricks? Yeah, not the biggest fan of those. Although the magic shows were a big part of the story for a while there, it wasn't the main focus.
What I do like about Ms Cooke's writing, is that she's really good at making the stories about the people, not about all circumstantial stuff. You get your action here, you get your blood and gore - but at the heart of it all, it's about the characters. It's about connecting with the book through the main players. And in a way, connecting with the author.
Lorenzo is the character that undergoes the biggest change in this book. Over the course of the book, he does a complete 180. He accepts himself, and finds peace in his own skin. You'd think would undergo about the same amount of change. Not at all. She only becomes even more secure in her own skin.
I kind of liked that there was a notable absence of the other Pyr in this book, with the exception of a couple characters. With less characters to keep track of, it made for a more peaceful read and I was able to enjoy reading the book that much more.
A few more bad guys see the end of days, and the somewhat new'ish character Chen gets to live to see another day. And another book.
We're also introduced to a new character in this book. By the looks of it, we'll get to know Brandon more in the next book. Which I'm patiently impatient to be released. :D
Read
April 26, 2012~After reading~
Finally done reading it!! Well, was kind of speed reading since this was boring and slow. Sorry to those that may like this series, but I can't rate any of these books any longer. There was no spark and the whole "take care of the firestorm" was to fast. Cassie wasn't all that great and her past really didn't change the fact that she was a terrible choice. Then there was Lorenzo, who was stubborn and slow as hell to show any interest.
Over all the series is dead to me. I will read it only because I want to read and never miss a day without reading something. I know what will happen in the next book, then the next, the next, and so on.
The dragon male will find his female (whoever she will be, maybe lame), then the firestorm will bring them together. The female will be with the dragon guy and find out she will be carrying his son. Then the evil dragon will come in and do some kind of evil plot where the female is take or something. Then the dragon dude saves his mate and in the end together they patch up his lost scale.
It is the same old thing. The whole "making dragon babies" is pissing me off. I want action and romance, go in a blaze of glory!!! Damn it!! Is that to much to ask?? There is only one dragon guy I want to read about and that is T. He is the only one that interests me a little.
~Before reading~
Wow, I wasn't expecting this. Lorenzo is up and isn't part of the Pyr group. Interesting. I will admit I am looking forward to this one on how it turns out. Like I said once, I will give this serious one more chance to change my taste buds around. And I am sticking to my word. I will read this book and hopfully feel some sparks.
Sad that I couldn't feel much on the previous books =/
Finally done reading it!! Well, was kind of speed reading since this was boring and slow. Sorry to those that may like this series, but I can't rate any of these books any longer. There was no spark and the whole "take care of the firestorm" was to fast. Cassie wasn't all that great and her past really didn't change the fact that she was a terrible choice. Then there was Lorenzo, who was stubborn and slow as hell to show any interest.
Over all the series is dead to me. I will read it only because I want to read and never miss a day without reading something. I know what will happen in the next book, then the next, the next, and so on.
The dragon male will find his female (whoever she will be, maybe lame), then the firestorm will bring them together. The female will be with the dragon guy and find out she will be carrying his son. Then the evil dragon will come in and do some kind of evil plot where the female is take or something. Then the dragon dude saves his mate and in the end together they patch up his lost scale.
It is the same old thing. The whole "making dragon babies" is pissing me off. I want action and romance, go in a blaze of glory!!! Damn it!! Is that to much to ask?? There is only one dragon guy I want to read about and that is T. He is the only one that interests me a little.
~Before reading~
Wow, I wasn't expecting this. Lorenzo is up and isn't part of the Pyr group. Interesting. I will admit I am looking forward to this one on how it turns out. Like I said once, I will give this serious one more chance to change my taste buds around. And I am sticking to my word. I will read this book and hopfully feel some sparks.
Sad that I couldn't feel much on the previous books =/
January 30, 2012
I started this series last year because the ladies in my monthly book club were reading it. Overall, it's a fun series and I enjoy the characters. This book, however, was a bit of a disappointment for me. I had really been looking forward to Lorenzo's story and figured that he would be a much stronger character than turned out to be. I also expected his story to further the sereis along since I'm expecting to see a sereis conclusion in the not to distant future (after all, the author is writing a YA series surrounding the child of one of the main characters from this sereis set in the future after this series has concluded). Unfortunately, this book did not further the series and overall story line in any way and although Lorenzo and Cassie were well developed and likable, I found the story unexciting. I have to say that a big part of my problem with this book (ok, the series) is the writing style. It bugs me no end to have paragraphs that are only one or two short sentences. Rather than using punctuation, the author uses short (3-6 word) sentences (anywhere from 1-3 sentences at a time) to create a paragraph. To me, this makes the story choppy and disjointed and takes away from the enjoyment of the story overall. I had trouble deciding on the number of stars to give the book because there wasn't anything "wrong" with the book (as long as you are looking for a pure romance without much of a larger story or plot line), but the writing style leaves something to be desired (for me anyway) and I was a bit disappointed by the lack of development of the series plot line. All in all, not a bad book - just not one I would re-read.
January 21, 2017
Famous illusionist Lorenzo has been denying his true nature for centuries. Born a dragon, Lorenzo turned his back on the Pyr and instead concentrated on caring for his father. Then one night during a performance at his show in Las Vegas, his firestorm ignites and much to his surprise, his mate is paparazzi photographer, Cassie Redmond. Despite what should have been a one night stand to satisfy the firestorm, Lorenzo and Cassie can’t stay away from each other. Lorenzo has a huge spectacle planned to fake his death and he wants Cassie to join him in his new life. As the evil Slayers descend on Las Vegas and threaten Cassie, Lorenzo must tap into his dragon side and defend his mate. Will Lorenzo finally join the Pyr? Will Cassie join Lorenzo in his new life?
Like all of the dragons in this series, Lorenzo is 100% pure alpha male. Lorenzo controls his life with an iron fist and his firestorm igniting is nothing more than a distraction. Once he spends more time with Cassie and slowly falls for her, he is determined to protect her no matter what.
Cassie is a huge skeptic. She doubts that Lorenzo is a dragon even when she sees him transform with her own eyes. Cassie questions everything, including their relationship. Eventually she is persuaded by Lorenzo that what they have is real.
Flashfire is the seventh book in the Dragon Fire Series (not a standalone read!). Cooke has done a fantastic job of creating a paranormal world that remains fresh and stands out in the shape shifting genre. Her unique plot lines and interesting characters make this series a must read for any PNR fan.
*Review also on https://www.facebook.com/SoManyReads/
Like all of the dragons in this series, Lorenzo is 100% pure alpha male. Lorenzo controls his life with an iron fist and his firestorm igniting is nothing more than a distraction. Once he spends more time with Cassie and slowly falls for her, he is determined to protect her no matter what.
Cassie is a huge skeptic. She doubts that Lorenzo is a dragon even when she sees him transform with her own eyes. Cassie questions everything, including their relationship. Eventually she is persuaded by Lorenzo that what they have is real.
Flashfire is the seventh book in the Dragon Fire Series (not a standalone read!). Cooke has done a fantastic job of creating a paranormal world that remains fresh and stands out in the shape shifting genre. Her unique plot lines and interesting characters make this series a must read for any PNR fan.
*Review also on https://www.facebook.com/SoManyReads/
August 30, 2018
Master illusionist Lorenzo's dragon nature is his biggest secret. It's also another detail to juggle, like ensuring each of his Las Vegas magic shows is a true spectacle. That is until he feels the burn of his firestorm and his whole world shifts.
Lorenzo wants to satisfy the firestorm and put it behind him. But photographer Cassie Redmond is hard to forget. And when Slayers target the mate he didn't believe he wanted, Lorenzo realizes he'll do anything to keep Cassie safe...
### About the Author
Deborah Cooke has always been fascinated with dragons, although she has never understood why they have to be the bad guys. She has an honors degree in history, with a focus on medieval studies.She is an avid reader of medieval vernacular literature, fairy tales and fantasy novels, and has written over forty romance novels under the names Claire Cross and Claire Delacroix.
Deborah makes her home in Canada with her husband. When she isn't writing, she can be found knitting, sewing or hunting for vintage patterns.
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