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Death Before Dragons #4
Elven Doom
Dragons make life complicated. Extremely complicated.
After returning from Idaho, I was hoping to have time to figure things out with Zav—also known as Lord Zavryd, the dragon who claimed me as his mate without asking—but the dark elves are up to their old tricks again.
Actually, they’re up to far more deadly tricks, using more powerful magic than I knew existed. I have no idea how I’m going to stop them, but if I can’t, my entire city and everybody I care about could be obliterated.
To make matters worse, Zav’s sister has shown up and is rooting around in my life. His family doesn’t approve of me, and she plans to put an end to our relationship... one way or another.
After returning from Idaho, I was hoping to have time to figure things out with Zav—also known as Lord Zavryd, the dragon who claimed me as his mate without asking—but the dark elves are up to their old tricks again.
Actually, they’re up to far more deadly tricks, using more powerful magic than I knew existed. I have no idea how I’m going to stop them, but if I can’t, my entire city and everybody I care about could be obliterated.
To make matters worse, Zav’s sister has shown up and is rooting around in my life. His family doesn’t approve of me, and she plans to put an end to our relationship... one way or another.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2020
1534 people are currently reading
959 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
197 books6,284 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 489 reviews
October 30, 2020
Elven Doom seemed to have everything that its predecessor was missing and raised the bar to 5 stars. I loved this instalment, it had me on the edge of my seat and with an unexpected twist!
Zav and Val are growing from strength to strength and now I see a possibility of another avenue to bring these two together in a more intimate way, I have high hopes!! ha!
Lindsay Buroker was a new author to me 4 books ago now that this one is read, I have to say she is definitely a pleasant addition to my list of authors that I follow. I have a need to read this series to the very end and she is still writing the books (which pleases me no end).
Highly recommended, especially (if like me) you are also new to dragons and you have the pleasure of being introduced to Zav
Zav and Val are growing from strength to strength and now I see a possibility of another avenue to bring these two together in a more intimate way, I have high hopes!! ha!
Lindsay Buroker was a new author to me 4 books ago now that this one is read, I have to say she is definitely a pleasant addition to my list of authors that I follow. I have a need to read this series to the very end and she is still writing the books (which pleases me no end).
Highly recommended, especially (if like me) you are also new to dragons and you have the pleasure of being introduced to Zav
July 31, 2020
3.75
I really enjoyed the banter in this one! Mostly between the main couple- but I was also enjoying Willard and Val's back and forth too- I don't think I would mind a dragon brother either...
I'm glad that Zav and Val are slowly making a little bit of progress in their relationship- if not the romance, at least they are getting to know each others quirks and motivations better.
Oh, and I have to say- Zav's sister can kick rocks!
Looking forward to the next one and getting to meet more of the mythical creatures on The List!
“Maybe I should get my status as your mate printed on a T-shirt for those without magical senses.” He scrutinized me, probably looking for sarcasm; he must have missed it. “Yes. Do this.”
I really enjoyed the banter in this one! Mostly between the main couple- but I was also enjoying Willard and Val's back and forth too- I don't think I would mind a dragon brother either...
I'm glad that Zav and Val are slowly making a little bit of progress in their relationship- if not the romance, at least they are getting to know each others quirks and motivations better.
Oh, and I have to say- Zav's sister can kick rocks!
Looking forward to the next one and getting to meet more of the mythical creatures on The List!
September 9, 2020
This is fourth in a traditional-ish Urban Fantasy with developments that span books. I definitely recommend reading in order.
You've read the others so you know mostly what you're going to get with this one. And I mean that in the best ways. So I'll keep this short. Probably.
The relationship with Zav continues on a really slow trajectory. Which I kind of like, though the barriers at this point seem more and more artificial (maybe because they're at least partially external). I liked the developments towards trust, though.
Less fun were a few new elves that showed up in Val proximity. Val's paranoia level seemed oddly selective to me and there were a couple of times where I thought some things were obvious that she didn't pick up on. Maybe I'm just hyper aware because I'm eager for the elven part of Val's heritage to take a bit more center stage. Overeager, maybe, so I analyze those interactions really closely. And I kind of expected Val to more actively triangulate by using both new sources of information and she just didn't. Again, that's likely a me-thing.
Anyway, I liked the story and the developments on both personal and plot axes so this is a solid 4½ stars that I'm rounding up for the fast pace, good banter, and because .
A note about Chaste: There's no sex, explicit or otherwise, in this story. So I consider it completely chaste. There's a bit of a make out at one point and mentions of adjourning to a more convenient location for intimacy, but that gets aborted before anything fun happens.
You've read the others so you know mostly what you're going to get with this one. And I mean that in the best ways. So I'll keep this short. Probably.
The relationship with Zav continues on a really slow trajectory. Which I kind of like, though the barriers at this point seem more and more artificial (maybe because they're at least partially external). I liked the developments towards trust, though.
Less fun were a few new elves that showed up in Val proximity. Val's paranoia level seemed oddly selective to me and there were a couple of times where I thought some things were obvious that she didn't pick up on. Maybe I'm just hyper aware because I'm eager for the elven part of Val's heritage to take a bit more center stage. Overeager, maybe, so I analyze those interactions really closely. And I kind of expected Val to more actively triangulate by using both new sources of information and she just didn't. Again, that's likely a me-thing.
Anyway, I liked the story and the developments on both personal and plot axes so this is a solid 4½ stars that I'm rounding up for the fast pace, good banter, and because .
A note about Chaste: There's no sex, explicit or otherwise, in this story. So I consider it completely chaste. There's a bit of a make out at one point and mentions of adjourning to a more convenient location for intimacy, but that gets aborted before anything fun happens.
November 19, 2023
H O N E S T L Y
How am I still addicted to this series after 4 books? Like, I feel as if I could binge 3 more and be happy. This series continues to be funny, the romance is soooo slow-burn it speaks to my soul, and I adore all the characters.
Val isn't an idiot either which I mean... shouldn't be a surprise, but she thinks things through and she feels so real. I suppose being 40+ she does have life experience, so she knows how to be better at her job. I just love her so much and whenever the tiger comes out I know I'm going to be laughing.
I am happy that... this arc, if you will, is completed-ish. Like, there is progress in every book against the bad guys, so it doesn't feel like they are running in circles.
This series has the potential to continue being great! I cannot wait to keep reading :)
How am I still addicted to this series after 4 books? Like, I feel as if I could binge 3 more and be happy. This series continues to be funny, the romance is soooo slow-burn it speaks to my soul, and I adore all the characters.
Val isn't an idiot either which I mean... shouldn't be a surprise, but she thinks things through and she feels so real. I suppose being 40+ she does have life experience, so she knows how to be better at her job. I just love her so much and whenever the tiger comes out I know I'm going to be laughing.
I am happy that... this arc, if you will, is completed-ish. Like, there is progress in every book against the bad guys, so it doesn't feel like they are running in circles.
This series has the potential to continue being great! I cannot wait to keep reading :)
April 20, 2022
Elven Doom is book four in the Death Before Dragons series by Lindsay Buroker.
This series does need to be read in order. In Elven Doom we’re dealing with the dark elves again and their schemes are getting bigger and deadlier.
This series is addictive, full of humor, action and adventure. In Elven Doom I was on the edge of my seat with all the suspense and unexpected twists.
Val is so much fun. I’m enjoying an older heroine. She’s smart, independent, witty, sarcastic, and strong which I like. We see her finally making friends and connecting with her family; when before she’s been a loner and keeping her distance. It was a nice development.
I also adore all the secondary characters. They add to the storyline.
The only thing that’s been bothering me along the way is the hot and cold relationship; between Zav and Val. I’m not sure what to make of their maybe romance. In Elven Doom it doesn’t take over, but the hot/cold is getting frustrating. I also didn’t like the dragons in this book. They are arrogant and don’t see that going into peoples minds is a violation. Even if you can do it, you shouldn’t.
Overall I liked Elven Doom. It has all the fun Urban Fantasy aspects I enjoy in my UF's.
Rated: 4 Stars
This series does need to be read in order. In Elven Doom we’re dealing with the dark elves again and their schemes are getting bigger and deadlier.
This series is addictive, full of humor, action and adventure. In Elven Doom I was on the edge of my seat with all the suspense and unexpected twists.
Val is so much fun. I’m enjoying an older heroine. She’s smart, independent, witty, sarcastic, and strong which I like. We see her finally making friends and connecting with her family; when before she’s been a loner and keeping her distance. It was a nice development.
I also adore all the secondary characters. They add to the storyline.
The only thing that’s been bothering me along the way is the hot and cold relationship; between Zav and Val. I’m not sure what to make of their maybe romance. In Elven Doom it doesn’t take over, but the hot/cold is getting frustrating. I also didn’t like the dragons in this book. They are arrogant and don’t see that going into peoples minds is a violation. Even if you can do it, you shouldn’t.
Overall I liked Elven Doom. It has all the fun Urban Fantasy aspects I enjoy in my UF's.
Rated: 4 Stars
July 11, 2020
“I do not look smart?” Zav touched his jaw.
“You look pretty.” I patted his chest.
“These traits are mutually exclusive in humans?”
“Not necessarily, but people like to make assumptions based on looks. Be glad you’re not blonde.”
March 3, 2023
Hugely entertaining and each book has something just a bit more that keeps me eagerly reading. In this one it was the arrival of Zav’s sister. She put a whole new twist on things.
P.S. I am happy the dark elves have been dealt with - was getting kind of tired of them.
P.S. I am happy the dark elves have been dealt with - was getting kind of tired of them.
June 28, 2021
MacHalo Buddy Read
I'm going to agree with my MacHalo comrades that this wasn't as good as the others in the series (so far). Lately, I've encountered a string of dull books. I was hoping Lindsay Buroker would be that shining light in the dark.
Gondo was the only fun part about this book. I usually love the banter between Sinari and Val, but it was very lackluster in this story. That mountain scene was too long, and the drama around the claim mark is now officially overkill.
Here's hoping the next book will be better!
I'm going to agree with my MacHalo comrades that this wasn't as good as the others in the series (so far). Lately, I've encountered a string of dull books. I was hoping Lindsay Buroker would be that shining light in the dark.
Gondo was the only fun part about this book. I usually love the banter between Sinari and Val, but it was very lackluster in this story. That mountain scene was too long, and the drama around the claim mark is now officially overkill.
Here's hoping the next book will be better!
August 21, 2020
*3.5
Zav and Val are both hot and cold and it got a bit annoying in this one - while it didn't take over the book it still felt unnecessary. But if this is her only flaw I'm good. She's mature, the exact opposite of TSTL (a bit naive in this story), her wit and sarcasm are entertaining and I'm happy she's started making friends and connecting with family.
We're dealing with dark elves again and their schemes are getting bigger and deadlier. Looking forward to the next book.
I wish it was out now...I read these 4 in a row and it's gonna be hard to wait
Zav and Val are both hot and cold and it got a bit annoying in this one - while it didn't take over the book it still felt unnecessary. But if this is her only flaw I'm good. She's mature, the exact opposite of TSTL (a bit naive in this story), her wit and sarcasm are entertaining and I'm happy she's started making friends and connecting with family.
We're dealing with dark elves again and their schemes are getting bigger and deadlier. Looking forward to the next book.
I wish it was out now...I read these 4 in a row and it's gonna be hard to wait
June 23, 2021
3.6 stars
“I believe the implements on this desk could be turned into a trebuchet." - Gondo
Pros:
- Gondo. He stole the show.
- The ending was stronger than the beginning.
- Questionable choices in footwear.
- Buroker style banter.
- Learning slightly more about elves and dragons.
Cons:
- There is something lacking in the romantic chemistry between Val and Zav. 4 books in now, and I still feel like it's...awkward? between them. Maybe forced is a better word.
- Beginning is a bit slow.
- Still not much in the way of learning more about other species. Although, to be fair, it's possible she's saving it for later books and building to something.
Will happily continue on with this series, as I'm certain it will get better.
“I believe the implements on this desk could be turned into a trebuchet." - Gondo
Pros:
- Gondo. He stole the show.
“That’s not the same as mating. Willard, your office?” I pointed past her, not tickled by the gleam in her eye.
“I thought you just kissed,” she said.
“We did.”
“Vigorously. Ardently.” Gondo thrust the compass up again. “Fervently.”
“I told him I’d pay him more if he could fill out paperwork,” Willard said. “He’s been reading our dictionary to prepare for the task.”
- The ending was stronger than the beginning.
- Questionable choices in footwear.
- Buroker style banter.
- Learning slightly more about elves and dragons.
Cons:
- There is something lacking in the romantic chemistry between Val and Zav. 4 books in now, and I still feel like it's...awkward? between them. Maybe forced is a better word.
- Beginning is a bit slow.
- Still not much in the way of learning more about other species. Although, to be fair, it's possible she's saving it for later books and building to something.
Will happily continue on with this series, as I'm certain it will get better.
May 24, 2020
This series keeps it funny (albeit a bit immature for a 40-something woman), still has an awesome tiger, and is a little more interesting with in terms of overall story arc. However, there was quite a bit of push and pull from both MCs, and it made the relationship aspect of this series even slower.
My only other issue with this series is how slow the h is to 1) figure out the reason behind her recent health issues and 2) figure out how to tap into her elven powers. I guess I'm more a product of the sitcom generation than I thought. :P
No intimate scenes, a couple of f-bombs, no OP drama.
My only other issue with this series is how slow the h is to 1) figure out the reason behind her recent health issues and 2) figure out how to tap into her elven powers. I guess I'm more a product of the sitcom generation than I thought. :P
No intimate scenes, a couple of f-bombs, no OP drama.
May 11, 2020
Man I love these books! Interesting new characters wander in and add to the plot, but Val and Zav remain at the centre, and the tension between the two is huge.
I wish that it wasn't impolite to urge the author to write faster, because I'm desperate to read more!
(I bought via Patreon)
I wish that it wasn't impolite to urge the author to write faster, because I'm desperate to read more!
(I bought via Patreon)
July 29, 2021
Great end do the story arc
I am really enjoying this series. The story arc with the dark elves has ended, but the ending gives many avenues for us to follow. I really like that this heroine is more mature than the usual wide eyed engine and has a good knowledge of herself, strengths or weaknesses.
I am really enjoying this series. The story arc with the dark elves has ended, but the ending gives many avenues for us to follow. I really like that this heroine is more mature than the usual wide eyed engine and has a good knowledge of herself, strengths or weaknesses.
June 28, 2022
I'm still enjoying this awesome series.
December 8, 2022
Just like with the first three books in the series I listened to this one. Vivienne Leheny's voice fits these books so well and they're a joy to listen to. Elven Doom follows half elf Val on another mission. This book her focus is on catching the dark elves that caused trouble in book 1. She's following leads, but has trouble figuring out where they went till some clues line up and things fall into place and it's time to stop the dark elves from executing their plan. Then there is Zav's sister who is causing trouble and doesn't approve of her relationship with Zav.
I am slowly making my way through this series and am really enjoying it The plot is straightforward enough that I can easily remember where I left off even if I don't listen for a few days. There's plenty of action and adventure and I liked seeing the plot unfold and how they figure out what the dark elves are up to. The story kept me interesting and engaged as I followed Val and see how she deals with everything.
I like Val as a main character she's capable and can handle things, but she also has her struggles and can use help sometimes. I thought she handled things well, but she also messes up a few times and says or does things she regrets, which makes her feel real. I like seeing how she handled her relationship with Zav, I like their banter and there are some great scenes with them together. Although I am still not fully warmed up to Zav, but I feel like Zav is becoming more likable and more understanding of humans. It is slow going though and most of the other dragons aren't likable at all. The epilogue wraps up the plot line of this book pretty well and gives a nice set up for the next book.
To summarize: I really enjoy this series. The plot is easy to follow and there's plenty of action, adventure and things going on to keep my attention. I liked how they come back to the dark elf plot line that was introduced in an earlier book and continue that now with Val trying to find where they are and what there up to. I like Val as main character with how she's capable, but also has her struggles. I like Val and Zav's banter and while I am still not fully warmed up to Zav I thought there were some great scenes with them together in this book. All in all another solid listen and I look forward to the next book.
I am slowly making my way through this series and am really enjoying it The plot is straightforward enough that I can easily remember where I left off even if I don't listen for a few days. There's plenty of action and adventure and I liked seeing the plot unfold and how they figure out what the dark elves are up to. The story kept me interesting and engaged as I followed Val and see how she deals with everything.
I like Val as a main character she's capable and can handle things, but she also has her struggles and can use help sometimes. I thought she handled things well, but she also messes up a few times and says or does things she regrets, which makes her feel real. I like seeing how she handled her relationship with Zav, I like their banter and there are some great scenes with them together. Although I am still not fully warmed up to Zav, but I feel like Zav is becoming more likable and more understanding of humans. It is slow going though and most of the other dragons aren't likable at all. The epilogue wraps up the plot line of this book pretty well and gives a nice set up for the next book.
To summarize: I really enjoy this series. The plot is easy to follow and there's plenty of action, adventure and things going on to keep my attention. I liked how they come back to the dark elf plot line that was introduced in an earlier book and continue that now with Val trying to find where they are and what there up to. I like Val as main character with how she's capable, but also has her struggles. I like Val and Zav's banter and while I am still not fully warmed up to Zav I thought there were some great scenes with them together in this book. All in all another solid listen and I look forward to the next book.
February 3, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5 stars…I am 4 books in and am in no way bored of this series. I love the fact that Zav & Val aren’t running around in circles. When there is conflict, they deal with it and move on to the next problem. No unnecessary angst romantically or plot wise, which I appreciate very much.
I don’t think I’ve mentioned this before but I love that Val is so mature. Over the course of time we see her character growth through her actions and internal monologue. She does have her moments when she wants to be independent and stubborn but it’s never annoying because she always knows when to concede. Even Zav had a lot of character development. Although raised to be condescending & domineering he’s learning to be less so. While still arrogant he did loosen up a bit and is learning to trust & respect Val’s opinions and wishes.
This installment was exciting and a lot of new developments occurd however, I feel the need to dock 1/2 a star because Zav was M.I.A for a good portion of the book. While his absence was very understandable, he was greatly missed. Still looking forward to the rest.
CONTENT
Romance: Kissing, Innuendo throughout
Violence: Moderate
Language: Moderate (A**, S**t & variations, 2 F-bombs), some crude speech.
I don’t think I’ve mentioned this before but I love that Val is so mature. Over the course of time we see her character growth through her actions and internal monologue. She does have her moments when she wants to be independent and stubborn but it’s never annoying because she always knows when to concede. Even Zav had a lot of character development. Although raised to be condescending & domineering he’s learning to be less so. While still arrogant he did loosen up a bit and is learning to trust & respect Val’s opinions and wishes.
This installment was exciting and a lot of new developments occurd however, I feel the need to dock 1/2 a star because Zav was M.I.A for a good portion of the book. While his absence was very understandable, he was greatly missed. Still looking forward to the rest.
CONTENT
Romance: Kissing, Innuendo throughout
Violence: Moderate
Language: Moderate (A**, S**t & variations, 2 F-bombs), some crude speech.
April 2, 2021
I’ll be honest lads, this has been the weakest one so far for me. I don’t know what it was, whether it was the actual book or my mood, but some of the things in this one managed to grind my gears. Don’t get me wrong, I still really like this series, and this book was nowhere near bad, it just had a few minor things that managed to annoy me. For example, the whole Val-not-being-able-to-pronounce-names thing was digging at me. They’re not too hard to grasp love. I’m totally okay with shortening them for convenience but come on, she has a name that’s supposedly hard to pronounce, she should at least try. This along with the whole “haha I’m so weird 🤪” thing got to me. As you can see, they’re only very minor things, but they did manage to grate me this time unfortunately.
Asides from these things, I had a good time. I’m really looking forward to reading 4.5 next.
Asides from these things, I had a good time. I’m really looking forward to reading 4.5 next.
March 18, 2021
This series is a fall back series for me. It is not stupendous and unputdownable, but it is an enjoyable frolic. And, this one does not disappoint. These books are simply fun and they always leave you with burning questions, but not a cliffhanger. So, I will continue. The next time I need a palette cleanser.
December 7, 2025
RTC
Love this series, unluckily I have to take a break here, because Amazon doesn't sell the next book. And also another book in the next trilogy. The somehow forgot the ebook link and complaining doesn't help.
Love this series, unluckily I have to take a break here, because Amazon doesn't sell the next book. And also another book in the next trilogy. The somehow forgot the ebook link and complaining doesn't help.
July 6, 2023
These books are just so much fun! Between the humor and the action with smatterings of romance, its so much fun! I think this is my favorite Lindsay Buroker series since her Emperor's Edge series!
January 22, 2026
Ce quatrième tome met enfin un terme aux agissements des elfes maléfiques. Val fait équipe avec son boss (Willard). Un duo efficace et particulièrement doué en dialogues caustiques.
La vie de Val est de plus en plus mouvementée et met un terme à sa solitude. Elle s’investit davantage auprès de ses amis Nin et Dimitri. Elle fait la connaissance d’une cousine du côté de son père. Des nouveaux assistants débarquent à son boulot. Même sa fille cherche à la contacter.
Sa relation avec Zav prend aussi un nouveau sens. Lui cherche à la protéger des dragons mais sa famille vient s’opposer à ses projets. Sa jeune sœur a menacé Val de tromperie et ne lui fait pas confiance. Résultat, le couple fait un pas en avant, un pas en arrière.
Ils ont cependant enfin admis avoir plus que du désir l’un pour l’autre. De quoi promettre encore de belles séquences hilarantes et un poil émoustillantes pour l’avenir.
La vie de Val est de plus en plus mouvementée et met un terme à sa solitude. Elle s’investit davantage auprès de ses amis Nin et Dimitri. Elle fait la connaissance d’une cousine du côté de son père. Des nouveaux assistants débarquent à son boulot. Même sa fille cherche à la contacter.
Sa relation avec Zav prend aussi un nouveau sens. Lui cherche à la protéger des dragons mais sa famille vient s’opposer à ses projets. Sa jeune sœur a menacé Val de tromperie et ne lui fait pas confiance. Résultat, le couple fait un pas en avant, un pas en arrière.
Ils ont cependant enfin admis avoir plus que du désir l’un pour l’autre. De quoi promettre encore de belles séquences hilarantes et un poil émoustillantes pour l’avenir.
May 18, 2025
Oh I just absolutely love Val, shes absolutely one of the most interesting characters I've followed, and there is so much more for her to learn, she's still haven't even awoken to her true abilities yet. The plot is good, not a dull moment, the series just gets better each book so far. Can't wait for the next one!
October 16, 2023
While I'm still enjoying this series, I didn't find this as good as previous ones. It could be because of what I thought of as a tedious adventure in this.
November 3, 2023
This series gets better with every book!
November 18, 2020
I've been really enjoying Lindsay Buroker's series. This is the third one I've read now and I like that they are quick easy reads. I had already read a space opera and a more traditional high fantasy by her, so I wanted to try her urban fantasy. I ended up liking the first book in the series quite a lot, but not loving it as much as I had hoped. That being said, I've read the whole series, or at least what's been published now, and I think the following books were better than that one.
The trademark Lindsay Buroker humor is present, which is one reason I like her books. They make me laugh quite a bit, and who doesn't like a little bit of laughter in their life? On the downside, I do feel like I've, for the most part, read the same main character in all three series. There are some slight differences, but they could be more distinct. Also every once in a while I find myself rolling my eyes at the attempts at humor, but still the stories are mostly good fun, and I don't think we are meant to take them too seriously.
I think my biggest issue with the main character is that she walked out on her daughter years ago to protect her from the different individuals/creatures who come after her because of her job, and I can't help but think that she could have simply left the job and chosen her daughter instead. This is definitely a flaw in the main character that I don't like, but this improves as the series progresses.
I thought this series had an interesting mix of fantasy creatures. There was pretty much everything but the kitchen sink thrown in, from dragons to vampires to orcs, and somehow it worked. I read these books back to back and I really can't remember now where one ended and the next started, so this will be my review for the whole series.
Sinister Magic (Death Before Dragons, #1): 3 stars
Battle Bond (Death Before Dragons, #2): 3.5 stars
Tangled Truths (Death Before Dragons, #3): 3.5 stars
Elven Doom (Death Before Dragons, #4): 3.5 stars
The Forbidden Ground (Death Before Dragons 4.5): 3 stars
False Security (Death Before Dragons #5): 3.5 stars
Storm Forged (Death Before Dragons #6): 3.5 stars
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
The trademark Lindsay Buroker humor is present, which is one reason I like her books. They make me laugh quite a bit, and who doesn't like a little bit of laughter in their life? On the downside, I do feel like I've, for the most part, read the same main character in all three series. There are some slight differences, but they could be more distinct. Also every once in a while I find myself rolling my eyes at the attempts at humor, but still the stories are mostly good fun, and I don't think we are meant to take them too seriously.
I think my biggest issue with the main character is that she walked out on her daughter years ago to protect her from the different individuals/creatures who come after her because of her job, and I can't help but think that she could have simply left the job and chosen her daughter instead. This is definitely a flaw in the main character that I don't like, but this improves as the series progresses.
I thought this series had an interesting mix of fantasy creatures. There was pretty much everything but the kitchen sink thrown in, from dragons to vampires to orcs, and somehow it worked. I read these books back to back and I really can't remember now where one ended and the next started, so this will be my review for the whole series.
Sinister Magic (Death Before Dragons, #1): 3 stars
Battle Bond (Death Before Dragons, #2): 3.5 stars
Tangled Truths (Death Before Dragons, #3): 3.5 stars
Elven Doom (Death Before Dragons, #4): 3.5 stars
The Forbidden Ground (Death Before Dragons 4.5): 3 stars
False Security (Death Before Dragons #5): 3.5 stars
Storm Forged (Death Before Dragons #6): 3.5 stars
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
June 17, 2020
Next One Please
****Spoilers****
This book was disappointing, especially coming off of the last one and the way this one began. The relationship with Zav goes nowhere and Val's poor decision-making and mission to find and stop the dark elves takes up the rest of the book. I was really surprised at how easily Val was taken in by Lirena or whatever her real name is, just trusted her with little information and no questions. Thankfully Val didn't shoot Zav at the end being under the mind control but it was a close thing. I couldn't help wondering why Val didn't just drop the gun instead of fighting against Lirena's compulsion to turn it on Zav. Too, Val is back to murder, murder, murder, kill, kill, kill when her actions reflect on Zav and she remains ignorant (I assume) of what's in the dragon code Zav dropped off in the last book and what consequences may come of her actions. Not knowing is not an excuse and I'd hate for Zav to pay the price for Val's stubbornness.
Freysha, the other elf is still a mystery but again I'm wondering why so trusting. Willard makes more of an appearance in this book and the banter with Val is amusing.
The thing I'm just not understanding is Val's desire to keep her daughter safe slowly come crashing down. Without Val freaking out about it too much. I'd think after spending so much time attempting to isolate herself, there would be more frustration or emotion about it. But perhaps the hope of a relationship with her daughter is casting those other feelings to the back of Val's mind.
That said, I still want to know what happens with the other characters, Val's heritage, the new shop, Val's relationship with Zav, the Dragon Code that Val is supposed to be living by, and dragon mates.
****Spoilers****
This book was disappointing, especially coming off of the last one and the way this one began. The relationship with Zav goes nowhere and Val's poor decision-making and mission to find and stop the dark elves takes up the rest of the book. I was really surprised at how easily Val was taken in by Lirena or whatever her real name is, just trusted her with little information and no questions. Thankfully Val didn't shoot Zav at the end being under the mind control but it was a close thing. I couldn't help wondering why Val didn't just drop the gun instead of fighting against Lirena's compulsion to turn it on Zav. Too, Val is back to murder, murder, murder, kill, kill, kill when her actions reflect on Zav and she remains ignorant (I assume) of what's in the dragon code Zav dropped off in the last book and what consequences may come of her actions. Not knowing is not an excuse and I'd hate for Zav to pay the price for Val's stubbornness.
Freysha, the other elf is still a mystery but again I'm wondering why so trusting. Willard makes more of an appearance in this book and the banter with Val is amusing.
The thing I'm just not understanding is Val's desire to keep her daughter safe slowly come crashing down. Without Val freaking out about it too much. I'd think after spending so much time attempting to isolate herself, there would be more frustration or emotion about it. But perhaps the hope of a relationship with her daughter is casting those other feelings to the back of Val's mind.
That said, I still want to know what happens with the other characters, Val's heritage, the new shop, Val's relationship with Zav, the Dragon Code that Val is supposed to be living by, and dragon mates.
February 16, 2021
4.5 Rounded Up
I just love these characters! Val's snark alone is worth indulging in this series, but add in Willard's own brand of sarcasm, Zav's oblivious superiority, Nin's quiet business sense, along with the wealth of other backup and background characters, and you've got a treasure trove of humor, action and individual souls that stand out from the crowd.
This installment sees Val advancing her relationship with Zav... kind of, while fending off the overzealous suspicions of his Dragon Sister, a sister determined to prove that Val is out to harm her Dragon Lord Brother. In all fairness, she has reason for her distrust, but it makes for a dicey, and dangerous, situation, one that is compounded by the deadly attention of the Dark Elves.
In true Buroker style, it's fun, intense, wit filled and exciting.
Perspective
First Person, Single POV
Ending Type
Episodic
Rating
Older YA readers to Adult
Romantic Dynamic
M/F
Character Age Range
40's +
My Final Verdict on Elven Doom
A wonderful installment that gets to the nitty gritty of this action filled, emotion laden adventure. Hysterical to boot.
I just love these characters! Val's snark alone is worth indulging in this series, but add in Willard's own brand of sarcasm, Zav's oblivious superiority, Nin's quiet business sense, along with the wealth of other backup and background characters, and you've got a treasure trove of humor, action and individual souls that stand out from the crowd.
This installment sees Val advancing her relationship with Zav... kind of, while fending off the overzealous suspicions of his Dragon Sister, a sister determined to prove that Val is out to harm her Dragon Lord Brother. In all fairness, she has reason for her distrust, but it makes for a dicey, and dangerous, situation, one that is compounded by the deadly attention of the Dark Elves.
In true Buroker style, it's fun, intense, wit filled and exciting.
Perspective
First Person, Single POV
Ending Type
Episodic
Rating
Older YA readers to Adult
Romantic Dynamic
M/F
Character Age Range
40's +
My Final Verdict on Elven Doom
A wonderful installment that gets to the nitty gritty of this action filled, emotion laden adventure. Hysterical to boot.
April 26, 2021
Okay. Zav stepped up (in his high-handed, draconic way) and claimed Val as his to lend her a layer of protection against other dragons. This doesn't sit as well with Val as you might think. Because, you know, she's her own person and not a piece of property.
But. BUT. She also kind of understands why Zav did what he did. Kind of. In an abstract sort of way.
Unfortunately, Zav's claiming doesn't stop certain dragons from meddling. Namely, Zav's sister. She's about as subtle as a freight train, so that's fun. Considering how Zav and other dragons were betrayed before, she does have reason to be wary of Val, but still. Freight train.
That's all fine and good, but there are also the dark elves to deal with. The dark elves are way more subtle than Zav's sister's freight train approach and that's not a good thing. Because they have plans that do NOT bode well for any humans who try to get in their way.
A whole lot of danger, a hasty decision Val comes to regret, potential icy doom, and Val doing her thing. Which means she shooting and chopping with gusto. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
But. BUT. She also kind of understands why Zav did what he did. Kind of. In an abstract sort of way.
Unfortunately, Zav's claiming doesn't stop certain dragons from meddling. Namely, Zav's sister. She's about as subtle as a freight train, so that's fun. Considering how Zav and other dragons were betrayed before, she does have reason to be wary of Val, but still. Freight train.
That's all fine and good, but there are also the dark elves to deal with. The dark elves are way more subtle than Zav's sister's freight train approach and that's not a good thing. Because they have plans that do NOT bode well for any humans who try to get in their way.
A whole lot of danger, a hasty decision Val comes to regret, potential icy doom, and Val doing her thing. Which means she shooting and chopping with gusto. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
February 25, 2023
3.5
Best of the lot so far, probably because its length lended itself to deeper exploration of the plot elements and space for a more satisfying final showdown with the dark elves.
We also finally got some movement on Val's link to her Elven heritage, which I've been waiting for for a while.
Zondia was an okay addition, but I wanted more depth to her character.
Best of the lot so far, probably because its length lended itself to deeper exploration of the plot elements and space for a more satisfying final showdown with the dark elves.
We also finally got some movement on Val's link to her Elven heritage, which I've been waiting for for a while.
Zondia was an okay addition, but I wanted more depth to her character.
April 25, 2021
3.5 Stars
Not as good as the other 3 but still a good read. My heart broke a bit for Val, poor woman cant catch a break!
Cant wait for the next one!
Not as good as the other 3 but still a good read. My heart broke a bit for Val, poor woman cant catch a break!
Cant wait for the next one!
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