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One boy must earn the trust of a blind dragon and hunt down an elusive sorceress before she can rekindle the war that nearly destroyed their world.
As the Kingdom of Maldobar emerges victorious from the brutal invasion of the Tibran Empire, much of the land is left in utter ruin. With his home destroyed and family gone, 16-year-old Thatcher Renley has no one left to turn to. And when he’s mistaken for a Tibran soldier and banished to a wartime prison camp, Thatcher knows his only hope for freedom lies in appealing to Queen Jenna directly.
But getting out of the prison camp might be the least of his worries— especially after he stumbles across a feral dragon locked in an iron cell.
As far as dragons go, Fornax is a lost cause. The battle that killed his rider also left him blind and too aggressive for any knight to control. But Thatcher can’t deny feeling drawn to the beast. Does he have what it takes to calm Fornax and join the proud ranks of Maldobar’s dragonriders? Only time will tell. And with a bloodthirsty Tibran witch threatening to rekindle the chaos of war, everyone’s time may be running out.
As the Kingdom of Maldobar emerges victorious from the brutal invasion of the Tibran Empire, much of the land is left in utter ruin. With his home destroyed and family gone, 16-year-old Thatcher Renley has no one left to turn to. And when he’s mistaken for a Tibran soldier and banished to a wartime prison camp, Thatcher knows his only hope for freedom lies in appealing to Queen Jenna directly.
But getting out of the prison camp might be the least of his worries— especially after he stumbles across a feral dragon locked in an iron cell.
As far as dragons go, Fornax is a lost cause. The battle that killed his rider also left him blind and too aggressive for any knight to control. But Thatcher can’t deny feeling drawn to the beast. Does he have what it takes to calm Fornax and join the proud ranks of Maldobar’s dragonriders? Only time will tell. And with a bloodthirsty Tibran witch threatening to rekindle the chaos of war, everyone’s time may be running out.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2020
659 people are currently reading
817 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Conway
41 books603 followersNicole Conway is originally from North Alabama and attended Auburn University. She is happily married and enjoys writing as a full time career.
Best known for her international bestselling fantasy series, THE DRAGONRIDER CHRONICLES - Nicole is currently working on a follow-on series, THE DRAGONRIDER LEGACY. Her other published works include MAD MAGIC, THE DISTANCE BETWEEN STARS, SCALES (Releasing Spring 2019), and RENEGADE RUNNER (2021).
Nicole is represented by Fran Black of Literary Counsel.
Best known for her international bestselling fantasy series, THE DRAGONRIDER CHRONICLES - Nicole is currently working on a follow-on series, THE DRAGONRIDER LEGACY. Her other published works include MAD MAGIC, THE DISTANCE BETWEEN STARS, SCALES (Releasing Spring 2019), and RENEGADE RUNNER (2021).
Nicole is represented by Fran Black of Literary Counsel.
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August 20, 2025DNF at 61%
I looked forward to a dragon rider story. I expected nothing complicated with the protagonist being 16, maybe a new twist of the kind underdog making an unlikely connection with a dangerous dragon and while outdoing himself becomes the hero to save a kingdom or something like that. For that I need to be able to connect with the protagonist; I need to see/ feel the bonding with the dragon, this we-against-the-world vibe before they are open for new friends; I need an interesting world and a dangerous threat, a terrifying antagonist. Those would be my basic requirements although I'm open for adaptions but at least I have to believe the adventure to feel it.
Maybe I have to start with the fact that I read this book in German, so I blame the usage of generic adjectives and odd metaphors on a poor translation; same applies for the constant change from formal addressing ('Sie') to common addressing ('Du') and back. It's a bit confusing but I can see where the translator got this idea because it's also confusing if not unbelievable how easy Thatcher gets released from the prisoner-of-war camp by the brother of the Queen who's also helping him to look for his remaining family and then the Queen herself is apologizing for the treatment and takes him into her castle as a stable boy together with his mysterious and possibly dangerous companion. That might be possible in a small city kingdom but not in a bigger one that just recently won a war against an evil emperor. Then there is suddenly the mentioning of Gods. First it's about guardian Gods granting special abilities, later it's only about divine artifacts, then the 2 guys gave it up so the old Gods support their victory in the war ... all of that mentioned by the way, there's no background, no church, no sight of Gods or miracles, no idea what or how that support happened or how that is important for the current situation and it appears as suddenly as it disappears again. It's like one of those ideas thrown into the story because the author liked it but forgot to link it to an existing story line.
There are a lot of such small world building glitches and it didn't help that there are also issues with characters who didn't act according to their role. Maybe I would let something like this pass if this was a TV series from the early 70s but it isn't and only prevents me to get into the story and don't even let me start about my disappointment reading what the author believes to be a way to show the connection between a boy and his dragon.
I really wanted to finish this but at the end I couldn't connect with the characters, was constantly confused by new information, couldn't believe how the story evolved, was not able to dive into that world … it didn't make me feel.
I looked forward to a dragon rider story. I expected nothing complicated with the protagonist being 16, maybe a new twist of the kind underdog making an unlikely connection with a dangerous dragon and while outdoing himself becomes the hero to save a kingdom or something like that. For that I need to be able to connect with the protagonist; I need to see/ feel the bonding with the dragon, this we-against-the-world vibe before they are open for new friends; I need an interesting world and a dangerous threat, a terrifying antagonist. Those would be my basic requirements although I'm open for adaptions but at least I have to believe the adventure to feel it.
Maybe I have to start with the fact that I read this book in German, so I blame the usage of generic adjectives and odd metaphors on a poor translation; same applies for the constant change from formal addressing ('Sie') to common addressing ('Du') and back. It's a bit confusing but I can see where the translator got this idea because it's also confusing if not unbelievable how easy Thatcher gets released from the prisoner-of-war camp by the brother of the Queen who's also helping him to look for his remaining family and then the Queen herself is apologizing for the treatment and takes him into her castle as a stable boy together with his mysterious and possibly dangerous companion. That might be possible in a small city kingdom but not in a bigger one that just recently won a war against an evil emperor. Then there is suddenly the mentioning of Gods. First it's about guardian Gods granting special abilities, later it's only about divine artifacts, then the 2 guys gave it up so the old Gods support their victory in the war ... all of that mentioned by the way, there's no background, no church, no sight of Gods or miracles, no idea what or how that support happened or how that is important for the current situation and it appears as suddenly as it disappears again. It's like one of those ideas thrown into the story because the author liked it but forgot to link it to an existing story line.
There are a lot of such small world building glitches and it didn't help that there are also issues with characters who didn't act according to their role. Maybe I would let something like this pass if this was a TV series from the early 70s but it isn't and only prevents me to get into the story and don't even let me start about my disappointment reading what the author believes to be a way to show the connection between a boy and his dragon.
I really wanted to finish this but at the end I couldn't connect with the characters, was constantly confused by new information, couldn't believe how the story evolved, was not able to dive into that world … it didn't make me feel.
July 25, 2025
This was a cute, seemingly YA weakling farm boy becoming a dragon rider story. It was well done, and left the story open for more to come.
February 20, 2021
One of the best books I have ever read.
Why? Mainly because of the friendships.
No one can write male-male friendships like this author. This genuine, loyal and brotherly relationships between the characters made me melt to a puddle. It's really hard to find this kind of friendships in books, especially between males.
I also loved all the characters and that's strange for me, because there is always someone I hate.
Tatch was one of the best protagonists I have ever encountered. He is no warrior, he can't fight, but he is brave and stands up for his friends. I love, love, love, love him and all the others. I loved everything in this book.
Dear author, please don't ever stop writing about such beautiful friendships!
Why? Mainly because of the friendships.
No one can write male-male friendships like this author. This genuine, loyal and brotherly relationships between the characters made me melt to a puddle. It's really hard to find this kind of friendships in books, especially between males.
I also loved all the characters and that's strange for me, because there is always someone I hate.
Tatch was one of the best protagonists I have ever encountered. He is no warrior, he can't fight, but he is brave and stands up for his friends. I love, love, love, love him and all the others. I loved everything in this book.
Dear author, please don't ever stop writing about such beautiful friendships!
November 24, 2020
I received a complimentary review copy of Hunter by Nicole Conway through Rockstar Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Nicole Conway and Rockstar Book Tours for the opportunity! This has not swayed my opinion. My thoughts are my own and my review is honest.
Hunter, though book one in its own series, is not the author's first dragon novel. A quick glance will tell you she wrote the 4-book series Dragonrider Chronicles and the Dragonrider Legacy trilogy. I haven't had the pleasure of reading those yet, but I assume from the similar series name (Dragonrider Heritage) that Hunter is at least written in the same world, if not a continuation of stories previously begun. One of these days I'll have to find out!
This is a victorious coming of age story about young Tatcher who fights for his freedom and a future worth living with the help of a blind, angry dragon named Fornax. It's absolutely packed with action, not a minute is boring, and the characters are quite compelling. (I also love the fact that Thatcher is seeking to appeal to Queen Jenna. Hello, my name is Jenna, I will hear his plea...) This book is a must-read for fantasy loves and dragon enthusiasts of all sorts.
Where this falls a little short for me is that while it's a great adventure with wonderful characters, there are too many very specifically familiar elements. Granted I haven't read the previously published 7 novels in this world, but the worldbuilding we get at the beginning of this new series feels a lot like the Inheritance Cycle world, both in the human civilization existing here and in the way dragons behave. The bond between a forlorn teenage boy who has survived destruction and parental death and a dragon that has been permanently wounded and proves to be mostly misunderstood made me think of a grittier version of Hiccup and Toothless. These are not necessarily bad things, and I imagine if I had been more familiar with Nicole's prior Dragonrider works I might find a lot more unique about the world, but this is what stood out to someone who is reading this first in a series book as also first in this world.
I will absolutely recommend this book to other fantasy lovers in the circles and I'll keep Nicole Conway in mind when I'm looking to add to my never-ending TBR. Thanks again to Nicole Conway and Rockstar Book Tours for this opportunity!
--
I read this title for a blog tour! To read the rest of the post and gain easy access to the rest of the tour, visit: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
Hunter, though book one in its own series, is not the author's first dragon novel. A quick glance will tell you she wrote the 4-book series Dragonrider Chronicles and the Dragonrider Legacy trilogy. I haven't had the pleasure of reading those yet, but I assume from the similar series name (Dragonrider Heritage) that Hunter is at least written in the same world, if not a continuation of stories previously begun. One of these days I'll have to find out!
This is a victorious coming of age story about young Tatcher who fights for his freedom and a future worth living with the help of a blind, angry dragon named Fornax. It's absolutely packed with action, not a minute is boring, and the characters are quite compelling. (I also love the fact that Thatcher is seeking to appeal to Queen Jenna. Hello, my name is Jenna, I will hear his plea...) This book is a must-read for fantasy loves and dragon enthusiasts of all sorts.
Where this falls a little short for me is that while it's a great adventure with wonderful characters, there are too many very specifically familiar elements. Granted I haven't read the previously published 7 novels in this world, but the worldbuilding we get at the beginning of this new series feels a lot like the Inheritance Cycle world, both in the human civilization existing here and in the way dragons behave. The bond between a forlorn teenage boy who has survived destruction and parental death and a dragon that has been permanently wounded and proves to be mostly misunderstood made me think of a grittier version of Hiccup and Toothless. These are not necessarily bad things, and I imagine if I had been more familiar with Nicole's prior Dragonrider works I might find a lot more unique about the world, but this is what stood out to someone who is reading this first in a series book as also first in this world.
I will absolutely recommend this book to other fantasy lovers in the circles and I'll keep Nicole Conway in mind when I'm looking to add to my never-ending TBR. Thanks again to Nicole Conway and Rockstar Book Tours for this opportunity!
--
I read this title for a blog tour! To read the rest of the post and gain easy access to the rest of the tour, visit: https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p...
January 18, 2022
This is not the first book I’ve read from Nicole Conway but it is the first in her Dragon series. I was excited to see that this is the third series in this world and am looking forward to reading the earlier books. Even though this is the first book in the third series, Conway does an excellent job of setting up the characters and the world if you are first time reader like I was. Conway has created a wonderful world with compelling characters. So compelling you will want to read the earlier books and find out about some of the other characters. Hunter is categorized as a children’s books, which surprised me. I thought it would be at least teens/YA so don’t be surprised if the plot is not overly complex, but it doesn’t matter as the characters are so engaging. Adults will enjoy this as well. An excellent adventure, which starts with full on action and never stops. Thatcher and Murdoc are great characters, and you know there is more to both than it seems. There relationship is core to the story and snippets are revealed as the story progresses. The dragons are amazing, and I can’t wait to find out more about them. I recieved an ARC from Hidden Gems and this is my honest review.
April 13, 2021
I am voluntarily reviewing this novel after receiving a free ARC.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
This book was pretty cute! A lot of it was pretty stereotypical - our main protag is a pretty typical shy underdog who doesn't believe in himself, that kinda thing - but still enjoyable. I liked that his chosen dragon had a disability that wasn't hand-waved aside, and the bits about them bonding were sweet (though I think we could have used more development with that, and I was a little disappointed the dragons in this 'verse don't talk, they're just more-intelligent animals). Main characters from previous series are a major part of this novel, so readers of those books will probably be happy to see their faves pop in. The female characters were well-written, for the most part, and held their own. Murdoc was a highlight (who doesn't love bad dudes tryin' to be good?) but his initial switch to the hero's side also felt abrupt, even after we got his reasoning for it.
The story's main problem, and why I couldn't rate it more highly, is that it is unfortunately very unfocused. The title refers to the idea that the heroes are supposed to be going after a witch, but they don't actually ever reach her (or even come close). Instead, there's just a bit of worldbuilding, a smidge of training, a fight with random villains, and then the story's over. All of this just felt like a prelude to the "real" story, something that would take place in the first half or so of a traditional fantasy novel. It felt a little padded, like the author knew they didn't really have enough for a trilogy.
To be honest, I'm curious what the rationale for this series even is, since it sounds like the former two series dealt with literal world-shattering events (makin' deals with gods, overthrowing evil sorcerous kings, etc.) and in this one they're just kinda piddling around sweeping up the mess. I don't know how the author could possibly raise the stakes to match the previous entries.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable read, and I'd recommend it to middle-grade readers. It's also a good place to hop into the series to see if it's your thing - you won't miss too much even if you haven't read the previous books, as there's enough exposition to make everything easy to follow.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
This book was pretty cute! A lot of it was pretty stereotypical - our main protag is a pretty typical shy underdog who doesn't believe in himself, that kinda thing - but still enjoyable. I liked that his chosen dragon had a disability that wasn't hand-waved aside, and the bits about them bonding were sweet (though I think we could have used more development with that, and I was a little disappointed the dragons in this 'verse don't talk, they're just more-intelligent animals). Main characters from previous series are a major part of this novel, so readers of those books will probably be happy to see their faves pop in. The female characters were well-written, for the most part, and held their own. Murdoc was a highlight (who doesn't love bad dudes tryin' to be good?) but his initial switch to the hero's side also felt abrupt, even after we got his reasoning for it.
The story's main problem, and why I couldn't rate it more highly, is that it is unfortunately very unfocused. The title refers to the idea that the heroes are supposed to be going after a witch, but they don't actually ever reach her (or even come close). Instead, there's just a bit of worldbuilding, a smidge of training, a fight with random villains, and then the story's over. All of this just felt like a prelude to the "real" story, something that would take place in the first half or so of a traditional fantasy novel. It felt a little padded, like the author knew they didn't really have enough for a trilogy.
To be honest, I'm curious what the rationale for this series even is, since it sounds like the former two series dealt with literal world-shattering events (makin' deals with gods, overthrowing evil sorcerous kings, etc.) and in this one they're just kinda piddling around sweeping up the mess. I don't know how the author could possibly raise the stakes to match the previous entries.
Overall, though, this was an enjoyable read, and I'd recommend it to middle-grade readers. It's also a good place to hop into the series to see if it's your thing - you won't miss too much even if you haven't read the previous books, as there's enough exposition to make everything easy to follow.
February 1, 2025
Hunter is the story of an immature 16 year old war orphan named Thatcher Renley who has been targeted for death but is saved by an extremely skilled warrior of mystery named Murdoc.
The Tibran Empire attacked thatcher's homeland of Maldobar and razed his town, killing most everyone. A mysterious man named Murdoc saved Thatcher's life but both are imprisoned by the soldiers of Maldobar.
Thatcher and Murdoc are cleared and put to work in the stables which suits Thatcher since his father was a farrier. They are assigned not only to the horse stables but also to the dragon stables. They are instructed how to feed the dragons without being harmed and given specific instructions for #4 who is locked in an iron stall with a bolted iron door. This dragon can only be fed through a small slit of a window.
Thatcher feels sorry for the dragon behind the iron cell and considers how to make friends with it. The Dragon's cell has not been cleaned in over a year and the dragon has had no contact with anyone.
Thatcher gets a silent dog whistle and begins blowing it every time he feeds #4. At first there are savage growls and grunts with loud crashes against the walls. Soon the growls stop and a dragon eye appears at the window slit when Thatcher blows his whistle. Encouraged, Thatcher decides to open the door and face the dragon when he brings food. He blows the whistle and opens the door a crack to pitch black darkness. He opens it a bit more and lets some light in and sees the dragon crouched in a corner. He blows another short blast and talks to the dragon.
The dragon lost his rider and his eyesight in a battle over a year ago and is now terrified of everyone and everything...until Thatcher.
Jaevid Broadfeather, heroic warrior and dragonrider of legendary renown, has been watching Thatcher as he slowly gains the trust of the blind dragon, Fornax. He sees that Fornax has not only accepted this naive teen but has given him his trust and has chosen him as his person. He realizes that Thatcher should now be trained as a dragonrider and approaches the queen with this news.
This was a marvelous story filled with mystery and some humor. No one seems to be who they think they are or who they pretend to be which is extremely interesting. I am excited about book #2 and look forward to obtaining a copy.
The Tibran Empire attacked thatcher's homeland of Maldobar and razed his town, killing most everyone. A mysterious man named Murdoc saved Thatcher's life but both are imprisoned by the soldiers of Maldobar.
Thatcher and Murdoc are cleared and put to work in the stables which suits Thatcher since his father was a farrier. They are assigned not only to the horse stables but also to the dragon stables. They are instructed how to feed the dragons without being harmed and given specific instructions for #4 who is locked in an iron stall with a bolted iron door. This dragon can only be fed through a small slit of a window.
Thatcher feels sorry for the dragon behind the iron cell and considers how to make friends with it. The Dragon's cell has not been cleaned in over a year and the dragon has had no contact with anyone.
Thatcher gets a silent dog whistle and begins blowing it every time he feeds #4. At first there are savage growls and grunts with loud crashes against the walls. Soon the growls stop and a dragon eye appears at the window slit when Thatcher blows his whistle. Encouraged, Thatcher decides to open the door and face the dragon when he brings food. He blows the whistle and opens the door a crack to pitch black darkness. He opens it a bit more and lets some light in and sees the dragon crouched in a corner. He blows another short blast and talks to the dragon.
The dragon lost his rider and his eyesight in a battle over a year ago and is now terrified of everyone and everything...until Thatcher.
Jaevid Broadfeather, heroic warrior and dragonrider of legendary renown, has been watching Thatcher as he slowly gains the trust of the blind dragon, Fornax. He sees that Fornax has not only accepted this naive teen but has given him his trust and has chosen him as his person. He realizes that Thatcher should now be trained as a dragonrider and approaches the queen with this news.
This was a marvelous story filled with mystery and some humor. No one seems to be who they think they are or who they pretend to be which is extremely interesting. I am excited about book #2 and look forward to obtaining a copy.
September 27, 2024
Why did no one tell me there are TWO other series before this one. WHY. DIDN’T. I. KNOW!?
There’s the Dragonrider Chronicles with Jaevid.
After that there’s the Dragonrider Legacy series with Reigh.
THEN there’s the Dragonrider Heritage with Thatcher.
Why is this not mentioned on the back of the book?
Like just a simple: Hey! Just so you know, there are 7 other books in this universe with hundreds of years of history that will be briefly mentioned in this book but you’re just supposed to know it, so you should read those books before these Would’ve been really nice.
But noooo. We don’t get that.
FYI: THIS SERIES SPOILS THE FIRST TWO. 😑
This miss information made the descriptions hard to imagine. What is a shrike? We don’t know because SHE DOESN’T TELL US. I tried to look it up but who’s to know we’re talking about the tiny bird?
Another thing is sooo many questions are being raised but we aren’t getting any answers because they’ve probably been answered in previous books. But NOT IN THIS ONE. So we’re left hanging.
And I can’t with how unrealistic this is. The amount of complete and utter trust needed for someone to believe you can be their eyes if you’re blind ESPECIALLY in war and combat is insurmountable. And these two develop that trust and relationship in just three WEEKS? It’s so unbelievable, especially since it’s not even on page!
In this world Dragons are basically flying war horses who can understand English. If you took reality and replaced horses with dragons BOOM you have this world. There is nothing special about it.
I genuinely don’t even know if I’ll keep reading this series. There are definitely better dragon rider books out there where dragons get MUCH more page time and are treated MUCH better. I don’t want to read about a character focused fantasy world. No. 🙄 I want DRAGONS.
Also, I HATE split pov and the next book is split pov. I’d rather die.
The only redeeming quality about this series was the atmosphere. Oh my gosh just the DESCRIPTIONS!!! 😭😭😭
Btw the narrator (Josh Hurley, hats off to you!) is AMAZING at female voices. No strain, no gruffness, and yet still elegant. I want to know his secrets. 😭
There’s the Dragonrider Chronicles with Jaevid.
After that there’s the Dragonrider Legacy series with Reigh.
THEN there’s the Dragonrider Heritage with Thatcher.
Why is this not mentioned on the back of the book?
Like just a simple: Hey! Just so you know, there are 7 other books in this universe with hundreds of years of history that will be briefly mentioned in this book but you’re just supposed to know it, so you should read those books before these Would’ve been really nice.
But noooo. We don’t get that.
FYI: THIS SERIES SPOILS THE FIRST TWO. 😑
This miss information made the descriptions hard to imagine. What is a shrike? We don’t know because SHE DOESN’T TELL US. I tried to look it up but who’s to know we’re talking about the tiny bird?
Another thing is sooo many questions are being raised but we aren’t getting any answers because they’ve probably been answered in previous books. But NOT IN THIS ONE. So we’re left hanging.
And I can’t with how unrealistic this is. The amount of complete and utter trust needed for someone to believe you can be their eyes if you’re blind ESPECIALLY in war and combat is insurmountable. And these two develop that trust and relationship in just three WEEKS? It’s so unbelievable, especially since it’s not even on page!
In this world Dragons are basically flying war horses who can understand English. If you took reality and replaced horses with dragons BOOM you have this world. There is nothing special about it.
I genuinely don’t even know if I’ll keep reading this series. There are definitely better dragon rider books out there where dragons get MUCH more page time and are treated MUCH better. I don’t want to read about a character focused fantasy world. No. 🙄 I want DRAGONS.
Also, I HATE split pov and the next book is split pov. I’d rather die.
The only redeeming quality about this series was the atmosphere. Oh my gosh just the DESCRIPTIONS!!! 😭😭😭
Btw the narrator (Josh Hurley, hats off to you!) is AMAZING at female voices. No strain, no gruffness, and yet still elegant. I want to know his secrets. 😭
November 8, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book from the author for Rockstar Book Tours. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Hunter
Author: Nicole Conway
Book Series: The Dragonrider Heritage
Rating: 3.5/5
Recommended For...: dragon lovers, fantasy lovers, YA readers
Publication Date: November 24, 2020
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (death, violence, gore)
Publisher: Broadfeather Books
Pages: 352
Synopsis: One boy must earn the trust of a blind dragon and hunt down an elusive sorceress before she can rekindle the war that nearly destroyed their world.
As the Kingdom of Maldobar emerges victorious from the brutal invasion of the Tibran Empire, much of the land is left in utter ruin. With his home destroyed and family gone, 16-year-old Thatcher Renley has no one left to turn to. And when he’s mistaken for a Tibran soldier and banished to a wartime prison camp, Thatcher knows his only hope for freedom lies in appealing to Queen Jenna directly.
But getting out of the prison camp might be the least of his worries— especially after he stumbles across a feral dragon locked in an iron cell.
As far as dragons go, Fornax is a lost cause. The battle that killed his rider also left him blind and too aggressive for any knight to control. But Thatcher can’t deny feeling drawn to the beast. Does he have what it takes to calm Fornax and join the proud ranks of Maldobar’s dragonriders? Only time will tell. And with a bloodthirsty Tibran witch threatening to rekindle the chaos of war, everyone’s time may be running out
Review: Overall, I thought this was a good book! The world building was good and the character development was sound. I liked how well the book did to keep an iconic dragon feel to it. It felt a lot like Eragon in some ways and I really liked that. The book also did well with the plot.
The only complaints I had about the book is that the book sometimes felt like it leaned too much on Eragon and it’s world building. The book also felt really slow in some parts. The book also liked to jump around a little bit and that made it hard to follow.
Verdict: It was good!
Book: Hunter
Author: Nicole Conway
Book Series: The Dragonrider Heritage
Rating: 3.5/5
Recommended For...: dragon lovers, fantasy lovers, YA readers
Publication Date: November 24, 2020
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 16+ (death, violence, gore)
Publisher: Broadfeather Books
Pages: 352
Synopsis: One boy must earn the trust of a blind dragon and hunt down an elusive sorceress before she can rekindle the war that nearly destroyed their world.
As the Kingdom of Maldobar emerges victorious from the brutal invasion of the Tibran Empire, much of the land is left in utter ruin. With his home destroyed and family gone, 16-year-old Thatcher Renley has no one left to turn to. And when he’s mistaken for a Tibran soldier and banished to a wartime prison camp, Thatcher knows his only hope for freedom lies in appealing to Queen Jenna directly.
But getting out of the prison camp might be the least of his worries— especially after he stumbles across a feral dragon locked in an iron cell.
As far as dragons go, Fornax is a lost cause. The battle that killed his rider also left him blind and too aggressive for any knight to control. But Thatcher can’t deny feeling drawn to the beast. Does he have what it takes to calm Fornax and join the proud ranks of Maldobar’s dragonriders? Only time will tell. And with a bloodthirsty Tibran witch threatening to rekindle the chaos of war, everyone’s time may be running out
Review: Overall, I thought this was a good book! The world building was good and the character development was sound. I liked how well the book did to keep an iconic dragon feel to it. It felt a lot like Eragon in some ways and I really liked that. The book also did well with the plot.
The only complaints I had about the book is that the book sometimes felt like it leaned too much on Eragon and it’s world building. The book also felt really slow in some parts. The book also liked to jump around a little bit and that made it hard to follow.
Verdict: It was good!
August 6, 2021
Weak, young, and naive, Thatcher goes from fleeing a war in his home town, to an enemy prison camp, to working in the castle stables. After bonding with a blind dragon, Thatcher is given the chance to assist the prince on a mission.
I think there are two series that precede this one. I've read several books from the first series, but haven't finished it yet. While this series shares many of the same characters, it's set about forty years later, and it provides enough background info for any new reader to jump in without feeling completely lost, but I think it would be best to read them in their proper order. There are too many references that even a glossed over summary can't do justice to.
Thatcher is almost exaggeratingly weak and naive, leaving him lots of room to mature over the course of the book, as he bonded and trained with his dragon, and even more so once he heft the castle on his quest.
The book was pretty slow paced until near the end. The whole series could probably be condensed into a single book by eliminating all the fluffy fillers. But sometimes you want to read and become absorbed in slow journey. Yes, the book could've skipped a stall mucking scene or three, but it chose to focus on the small moments while it built up on the world building, introduced new characters, and developed the plot. Sometimes, I put tree book down in favor of others, but it was still enjoyable to return to when I was in the right mood.
I think there are two series that precede this one. I've read several books from the first series, but haven't finished it yet. While this series shares many of the same characters, it's set about forty years later, and it provides enough background info for any new reader to jump in without feeling completely lost, but I think it would be best to read them in their proper order. There are too many references that even a glossed over summary can't do justice to.
Thatcher is almost exaggeratingly weak and naive, leaving him lots of room to mature over the course of the book, as he bonded and trained with his dragon, and even more so once he heft the castle on his quest.
The book was pretty slow paced until near the end. The whole series could probably be condensed into a single book by eliminating all the fluffy fillers. But sometimes you want to read and become absorbed in slow journey. Yes, the book could've skipped a stall mucking scene or three, but it chose to focus on the small moments while it built up on the world building, introduced new characters, and developed the plot. Sometimes, I put tree book down in favor of others, but it was still enjoyable to return to when I was in the right mood.
November 30, 2020
A young boy will rise to become more than he ever thought possible.
Thatcher is running for his life after his city was attacked. He doesn’t know what happened to his father and when two soldiers confront him he know he’s about to be killed. But one turns on the other and after killing his comrade helps Thatcher. While trying to escape he and his new friend Murdoc are taken to a prison camp. Because they dressing in armor from the invading soldiers to try to escape they are seen as traitors. But after months in the camp they get their day to tell what really happened. Now they are working for the royal family as stable hands. There Thatcher befriends a damaged dragon named Fornax who is blind and grieving the loss of his first rider. Over weeks Thatcher brings Formax back from the brink of insanity and now he is Fromax’s new dragon rider. And their first mission is a dangerous one and only a small contingent will band together to capture a powerful but insane woman. But Thatcher is not really a fighter but he has made a few new friends and what Thatcher lacks in strength he more than makes up for in heart and determination. And he will need all his inner strength to stay alive in the coming battles. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
Thatcher is running for his life after his city was attacked. He doesn’t know what happened to his father and when two soldiers confront him he know he’s about to be killed. But one turns on the other and after killing his comrade helps Thatcher. While trying to escape he and his new friend Murdoc are taken to a prison camp. Because they dressing in armor from the invading soldiers to try to escape they are seen as traitors. But after months in the camp they get their day to tell what really happened. Now they are working for the royal family as stable hands. There Thatcher befriends a damaged dragon named Fornax who is blind and grieving the loss of his first rider. Over weeks Thatcher brings Formax back from the brink of insanity and now he is Fromax’s new dragon rider. And their first mission is a dangerous one and only a small contingent will band together to capture a powerful but insane woman. But Thatcher is not really a fighter but he has made a few new friends and what Thatcher lacks in strength he more than makes up for in heart and determination. And he will need all his inner strength to stay alive in the coming battles. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
December 4, 2025
Nicole Conway’s first two books of The Dragonrider Heritage, Hunter and, Betrayer, offer good life lessons and insight into the coming of age process. These books are part of the coming of age and fiction genre, so If you like this book you will likely like some of her other books such as Conway’s other dragonrider series. I really enjoyed this book, it was one of the first I was able to actually finish instead of getting side tracked in my own thoughts. I often don’t like most books because I get bored quite quickly with them. These books however, are able to keep me engaged until I finished all 4 of them. Conway has an amazing way with words which make you feel like you can see through the characters eyes into the world around them, or she makes it feel as if you are there with them. Another main selling point about Conway’s stories (and specifically these two books) is that her humor is amazing, you can’t help but laugh at the funny conversations the characters sometimes have. One of the main things that you could take away from this book is that you should always persevere in the face of a challenge, because no matter how daunting, every problem has a solution. To summarize these books helped me grow as a person and are a great read for those looking for a funny, fantasy, adventure that makes you want to read more.
February 28, 2023
This was one annoying book, and yet I made it to the 65% point before DNFing it.
Set in a generic medieval world, dragons exist, but they are just very intelligent animals and can't talk. They bond with one human as their rider, but they can't communicate any more than a horse could.
One dragon lost his rider (and is blinded in the same attack). He's too crazed with anger and fear for anyone else to handle, until a young stable boy finds a way to connect with him.
This could have been such a good book. The parts about taming and bonding with the dragon were great. It's just that the main character was so awful. He's 16 years old (and in a medieval world, that's basically an adult), but he came off as not even 6. I lost count of all the times the author descried him as a "newborn fawn". He trembled like a newborn fawn, fell to the ground like a newborn fawn, was as weak as a newborn fawn... The other description the author liked was "scared baby squirrel". He clung to the other boy like a scared baby squirrel, etc.
In addition to all that, the author was very much not a believer in "show, don't tell". It's really too bad, this could have been a really good book.
Set in a generic medieval world, dragons exist, but they are just very intelligent animals and can't talk. They bond with one human as their rider, but they can't communicate any more than a horse could.
One dragon lost his rider (and is blinded in the same attack). He's too crazed with anger and fear for anyone else to handle, until a young stable boy finds a way to connect with him.
This could have been such a good book. The parts about taming and bonding with the dragon were great. It's just that the main character was so awful. He's 16 years old (and in a medieval world, that's basically an adult), but he came off as not even 6. I lost count of all the times the author descried him as a "newborn fawn". He trembled like a newborn fawn, fell to the ground like a newborn fawn, was as weak as a newborn fawn... The other description the author liked was "scared baby squirrel". He clung to the other boy like a scared baby squirrel, etc.
In addition to all that, the author was very much not a believer in "show, don't tell". It's really too bad, this could have been a really good book.
November 8, 2020
I have read the Dragonrider Chronicles, and Dragonrider Legacy, and now beginning Dragonrider Heritage with Hunter. My mom got me an ARC copy of Hunter and this is my review. I am a 14 year old male.
I really enjoyed the storyline of every book by Nicole Conway in these series, especially Hunter. It’s about a young small boy, Thatcher, who lost everything and through struggles he figures out how to build a new life. Thatch bounds with a disabled dragon, Fornax, who is dealing with some serious PTSD. He is pulled into a quest with characters from the other series to find an evil witch and encounter a new enemy of assassins.
This book is action packed and yet complex. It begins as a standalone but does get heavy into knowing material from the other series as you read on.
I give the book five star because it is a culmination of a crossover event. It reopens the story and gives way to new characters with surprise twists. I read it in about 10 hours.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed the storyline of every book by Nicole Conway in these series, especially Hunter. It’s about a young small boy, Thatcher, who lost everything and through struggles he figures out how to build a new life. Thatch bounds with a disabled dragon, Fornax, who is dealing with some serious PTSD. He is pulled into a quest with characters from the other series to find an evil witch and encounter a new enemy of assassins.
This book is action packed and yet complex. It begins as a standalone but does get heavy into knowing material from the other series as you read on.
I give the book five star because it is a culmination of a crossover event. It reopens the story and gives way to new characters with surprise twists. I read it in about 10 hours.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2025
Loved, loved, loved this fantasy!
There is everything in this story that should be in a fantasy. We have a quest, we have different species, including dragons, and lots and lots of danger. The main character in this story is a commoner, a boy who lived above his father’s stables and helped to take care of the horses, Thatcher by name. His world comes to an end when the Tibrans attack his village. Just as two men covered in black are ready to kill him, one of them kills the other and grabs Thatcher and runs. The one who saved Thatcher’s life is Murdoc. These two become friends through thick and thin. Against all odds, Thatcher ends up helping a broken, blind dragon and becomes a dragonrider himself. What a great story. I really loved the fact that regardless of anything else, Thatcher always believes the best about people and is loyal to a fault. Seriously, I cannot praise this story highly enough and can’t wait for the rest of the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is everything in this story that should be in a fantasy. We have a quest, we have different species, including dragons, and lots and lots of danger. The main character in this story is a commoner, a boy who lived above his father’s stables and helped to take care of the horses, Thatcher by name. His world comes to an end when the Tibrans attack his village. Just as two men covered in black are ready to kill him, one of them kills the other and grabs Thatcher and runs. The one who saved Thatcher’s life is Murdoc. These two become friends through thick and thin. Against all odds, Thatcher ends up helping a broken, blind dragon and becomes a dragonrider himself. What a great story. I really loved the fact that regardless of anything else, Thatcher always believes the best about people and is loyal to a fault. Seriously, I cannot praise this story highly enough and can’t wait for the rest of the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2021
I really liked this book. The characters are great, and the relationships between the characters are wonderful. I just *love* the brotherly relationship between Murdoc and Thatcher. Thatcher is such a wonderful ball of wholesomeness :D. I'm interested to see how the other, not god-given, magics work.
Tbh the world is pretty much a standard fantasy world, but other than that, I loved this book!
I also like how the characters from the previous series' show up and it actually feels like the events of the previous series mattered. Sometimes an author starts a series sometime after the events of a previous series and it feels like the previous books were pointless. I'm glad that this isn't the case here :)
Tbh the world is pretty much a standard fantasy world, but other than that, I loved this book!
I also like how the characters from the previous series' show up and it actually feels like the events of the previous series mattered. Sometimes an author starts a series sometime after the events of a previous series and it feels like the previous books were pointless. I'm glad that this isn't the case here :)
March 27, 2025
Despite a fair amount of foreshadowing, the plotline never goes where you expect. Every time you get to know a character, they have a personal plot twist that has a significant effect on the overall plotline. The only person who doesn't have a personal plot twist is the main character. His natural growth builds his courage and self-confidence as he helps all the other characters cope with their hidden struggles revealed through plot twists.
At first, I thought the writing style was a little immature, but as the main character grew and became more confident, the writing did as well. I would highly recommend this series to someone transitioning from the kid's section into more involved and thought-provoking stories; or someone trying to get back into reading.
At first, I thought the writing style was a little immature, but as the main character grew and became more confident, the writing did as well. I would highly recommend this series to someone transitioning from the kid's section into more involved and thought-provoking stories; or someone trying to get back into reading.
November 12, 2020
This is the first book I've read by Nicole Conway - highly regrettable yet easily fixed. This book was packed with things that I love - dragons, bad boys, the underdog and a great storyline. I absolutely love that the author was able to catch me off guard with a plot twist or two that I never seen coming. The mix of characters and backgrounds are phenomenal. You get to know each one without the book dragging along, and yes you will have favorites!! The writing itself flows smoothly. I read a lot of books about dragons and this book isn't your typical dragon read. Nicole has made me a fan - can't wait to see what happens next!!
June 29, 2025
Good story, intriguing premise, though I feel it moved too fast from the first shaky beginnings of the relationship between Thatcher and Fornax to the first real test of their bond. At times Thatcher appears too whiney and unsure of himself for my taste although I like the occasional glimpses of true nobility in the character. I wish they'd hark back to his humble beginnings a bit more, I wish they'd spent a bit more time establishing his character before introducing Fornax. I hope that the next books find their stride, overall a good example of YA escapism.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2025
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. This story is so exceptional that if I could rate it with a million stars I would not hesitate! Fast paced with suspense filled scenarios and nail biting action follow a young man’s journey that begins when he flees for his life as his homestead is invaded, to becoming chosen and bonded by a dragon deemed too far gone after being blinded and losing his rider. The journey is breathholding, and full of unexpected events that will have you glued to the pages as the plot unfolds and the storyline pulls you in. I can’t wait for more!.
December 1, 2020
Love it!
This new adventure into the Dragon Rider world starts off at the same point we last left Jae and the other riders by adding some wonderful new characters as well as a new dragon with some specially needs. The ability to have a dragon which is not perfect but still be a hero is a great addition alongside Maverick and his brood. Well written and easy to follow with details which help you form a picture in your mind of this fantasy world.
This new adventure into the Dragon Rider world starts off at the same point we last left Jae and the other riders by adding some wonderful new characters as well as a new dragon with some specially needs. The ability to have a dragon which is not perfect but still be a hero is a great addition alongside Maverick and his brood. Well written and easy to follow with details which help you form a picture in your mind of this fantasy world.
December 3, 2020
This is a beautifully written tale of dragons, adventure and lost souls. Thatcher, the main protagonist, is an incredibly sweet, often bumbling young man who has a heart of gold. As he befriends a blind dragon, he finds purpose when all seems lost and strikes off on an adventure to battle forces of darkness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2022
He is about to sent to a camp because they believe he is the enemy. There he will find a blind feral dragon which he feels a pull to. He wants to prove his worth and he will try to help the dragon who is lost since they lost their rider. Can he win the dragon over? Will they escape the camp? How will they get on? Follow them to find out
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
February 11, 2024
Hunter is a dragonrider story (who doesn't like a good dragon story?) and it's fairly decent as far as dragon stories go. It's been done before, but this one has some twists that make the story interesting. I liked it, and will probably read more books in the series.
June 13, 2025
Absolutely loved this book, great world building, hooked me from page one. I couldn't put it down, some relatable characters. Some decent morals (especially during war) easy day read. (Or couple) fell in love with the cherub faced boy and the gruff mudoch.
Good cleanish fantasy (death, murder, war, loss).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Good cleanish fantasy (death, murder, war, loss).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2020
This is a delightful read that combines everything I want in a ya fantasy; dragons, likable and robust characters, revenge, world-building, and a complex story. It has many twists and turns; some are expected, and some that surprised me. It’s fast-paced but not hard to keep up. There are many references used, and the adventures were amusing to read
November 24, 2020
Must read
Hunter starts with a bang. Beginning with pulse pounding, heart-in-your-throat action.
Plenty of laughter & tears. I love how the author ties this story to the Dragonrider Chronicles & especially the new prequel.
I love the challenges the characters face & their character arcs & most especially, dragons.
A must read. I'm going to read it again. 😁
Hunter starts with a bang. Beginning with pulse pounding, heart-in-your-throat action.
Plenty of laughter & tears. I love how the author ties this story to the Dragonrider Chronicles & especially the new prequel.
I love the challenges the characters face & their character arcs & most especially, dragons.
A must read. I'm going to read it again. 😁
March 18, 2021
Good book
We met several new characters “Thatcher” the most important. Thatcher is a timid, adorable, cute slender teen who hates his cute face. At Jae’s urging Thatcher tries and succeeds at training a blind traumatized dragon. Believe it or not that is one of the easiest things Thatcher accomplishes.
We met several new characters “Thatcher” the most important. Thatcher is a timid, adorable, cute slender teen who hates his cute face. At Jae’s urging Thatcher tries and succeeds at training a blind traumatized dragon. Believe it or not that is one of the easiest things Thatcher accomplishes.
May 2, 2021
Wow !
Lady of the Lake , you are a wonderful writer of fantastic fantasy fiction . The world you have created is so immersive . The people are well woven into a creative and fascinating story . I will read any novel you may write with anticipation . Thank you for sharing this world with me !
Lady of the Lake , you are a wonderful writer of fantastic fantasy fiction . The world you have created is so immersive . The people are well woven into a creative and fascinating story . I will read any novel you may write with anticipation . Thank you for sharing this world with me !
February 18, 2022
Excellent adventure
Hunter is an excellent story of Thatch who became an orphan during the war. He was captured and put to work by taking care of the horses and dragons. He was trying to help a blind dragon who was injured during the battle. The dragon chose Thatch to be his next rider. So the adventures begin.
Hunter is an excellent story of Thatch who became an orphan during the war. He was captured and put to work by taking care of the horses and dragons. He was trying to help a blind dragon who was injured during the battle. The dragon chose Thatch to be his next rider. So the adventures begin.
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