The Rebellion has several battle victories under its belt, but although Desiree Black is credited for the war’s turn, she still has one goal—freeing her parents from the Spirit King’s grip. The problem is that the magic clouding her parents’ allegiance is all-powerful, and no record exists of a successful attempt to break the Mind Trap.
That knowledge won’t temper Dez’s determination, but it does fuel her frustration with the Rebellion’s path and leadership.
To adjust her attitude, Dez is removed from the battlefield to act as an attaché to the commander in chief—If she refuses she’ll face ejection from the Rebellion for her reckless attitude. But learning to be a leader and gaining wisdom aren’t simple things, even when Dez manages to find the Dragon Oracle, who possesses a direct link to the Goddess and may hold the key to setting her parents free.
But their arrival portends oncoming doom. And as the Rebellion reels from unexpected losses within their ranks, the lies that once haunted Dez return with a vengeance. Now, in order to save the Rebellion and rescue her family, Dez must use newfound powers to enter the dimension housing the knowledge of the dead.
Ava Richardson writes epic page-turning Young Adult Fantasy books. She creates lovable characters and drops them into intricate worlds that are barely contained within your eReader. Ava has written 21 YA dragon fantasy series, including her bestselling series Return of the Darkening and her recent series, Destia's Dragon Shifter War.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
This is book two of The Dragonspawn Trilogy and continues the story of the Rebellion and the main character Desiree Black’s desire to rescue her parents from the Spirit King’s grip. Her bond with her dragon Nightsoul has deepened as she finally became a trusted part of the Rebellion forces and has been promoted to lead her own unit of dragon riders. They have seen many battles and with Dez’s strength and powers which she now has full control over, have led to victories for the Rebellion against the Spirit King’s forces. They have to fight against the Draznar, dragons made from the bones of dead dragons and an affront to Nightsoul and all other true dragons. They are ridden by Ashimax’s most feared and loyal soldiers. They have to even face The Lost, those who opposed Ashimax during his first attempt at ruling the world and were imprisoned and turned against their own allies. One of them she faces is her own father, John Black, known as The Spear of the Night. Dez had already encountered her other, known as The Ghost of the Bayou, when she first knew her mother was still in there, pulling back from a killing strike and touching the large X on her forehead, a mark of The Lost and others enslaved by Ashimax.
Dez tried to convince the Rebellion commanders that these former heroes, were being enslaved and somehow magically controlled by Ashimax and that their actions were not of their own choice. A rival captain, Mallas, ended up trying to take on her father, before he used his powerful magic to pull back and retreat. Dez and her unit were to help the ground troops to take the fortress, but she desperately wanted to chase after her father and see if he would recognise her or not. When they get back to the base camp and she is told Elena Lawry, the Rebellion’s commander in chief, wants to see her, she reckons if she can get out of her own command role, she may be able to concentrate on finding her parents! Bit naive in the middle of a war, and she will not like the Commander’s reaction. She needs to consult with the Dragon Oracle, a recluse and former powerful dragon rider up in the mountains, who could help with the knowledge of how to free her parents. She does indeed get relieved of her duties, but not to enable her to go off on her own quest, but to become the Commander’s personal attaché!
If she wants to do something that only she seems to want, then she will have to do it alone and not as part of the Rebellion. Something she has dreamed of being part of since she was a child! Only problem is the Commander is one step ahead of her and makes Mallas an attache as well as Dez. The next day she surprises her by telling her they are leaving to see the Oracle. When she meets the Oracle, she agrees that her parents are being held by powerful magic. It is called Mind Trap and that it is magic that has never been broken before. Nor does the Oracle know how it is done. The only place to find such knowledge is in the Memory Dimension, where all knowledge of all who have lived and died, is stored. When Ashimax was previously defeated, a young warrior from out of nowhere and with powers far stronger than anyone else, was thought to have been the Chosen one, chosen by the Creator Goddess herself. However, he failed and his memories of what happened are heavily shielded in white flame that even the Oracle could not access.
The Creator Goddess gave out extra powers to select Chosen, but for them to succeed, they would need to earn her favour and also end up in the right place at the right time. The Chosen would always have a choice in what they do, whether this helps them to succeed or fail, will depend upon their own choices. Their arrival at the Oracle’s isolated home, soon leads to disaster and the loss of an important and ancient relic. It seems the Commander is trying to push Dez and Mallas towards taking a bigger leadership role. This comes sooner than expected as an election is called. New powers also have to be learned about and how to use them effectively. But lies being told about her, bring back memories of her days in the swamp with bullies. Rebellion losses follow unexpectedly, as the leadership is splintered into warring factions. It seems Dez has been chosen, first by the Creator Goddess and now by the Oracle. To help save the Rebellion and the fight for her parent’s freedom, she will have to use all these powers to enter the dangerous world of the Memory Dimension and the knowledge of the dead that she will need to finally defeat Ashimax.
Someone she saw as a rival and opponent, will surprise her and relationships will grow between them. Nightsoul is still an awesome dragon with Dez’s wellbeing in mind and body, still their most important role and an effective warrior in their own right. Dez and Nightsoul will have a hard decision to make as a huge battle is coming, for the absolute survival of the Rebellion. They are cornered and almost without hope, as the battle continues. The Spirit King is ahead of their every move and has been planning his actions for a long time. Trying to break the Mind Trap on any of the Lost may be a lost option, but it is the only one she can see that will allow her parents to be freed and the Spirit King to be defeated. But he has other, far loftier plans and the Rebellion will have a much harder time to stop him. Lots of dragon and rider interactions and battling covers the pages in action, but there are also lots of interactions between the main characters and what they are all facing as they try to keep the Rebellion going. Another fantastic read and I can’t wait to see the fight for the Needle of Creation in the next book of the series. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Audiobook Review: I am so enjoying this Dragonspawn trilogy! In this second book of the series, our heroine truly comes into full possession of her already impressive magical powers and even gains more. She also faces challenges and triumphs in battle, rising from captain to commander rank and becoming the rebellion leader’s chosen one to replace her, though it is certainly not an easy road, nor is it guaranteed. Dez has a rival who becomes a bit more, but in a completely understandable and believable way. The thought magic of this world is intriguing, and I enjoyed watching Dez test the boundaries of her magic and its possibilities. I also enjoyed watching the supportive yet complex sibling relationship she has with her adoptive brothers. I especially enjoyed seeing Pieter in this book. I happened to listen to The Last of the Dragon Riders series first, which is this author's series featuring Pieter and his own battle using emotion-driven magic against the forces of evil in their world. I thought some of this came a little too easy for Dez, despite the difficulties she faced. She's still a very young woman, rather inexperienced with the greater world and specifically with military strategy, and flying by the seat of her pants—literally at times!—as she tries to figure out her magic. But this book is so well written that I can forgive a few shortcuts, and I actually enjoyed her mental gymnastics as she figured it all out. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store next for Dez, her brothers, and the rebellion.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
🗝️🗝️ONE ACTION PACKED TREAT🗝️🗝️ Smackdown! Ava hits fast and furious with this skillfully spun debacle, dropping the bomb and lowering the boom, keeping you riveted and frozen to your seat, launching this jewel to staggering heights. Navigating a minefield full of daring drama, perilous intrigue, sinister deeds, ruthless foes, escalating danger, spiraling suspense and unnerving situations, along with a boatload of unfolding revelations, you have one block busting experience. Chicanery, escapades and mayhem run amuck, broken boundaries and forced limitations are amplified and strengthened, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of self preservation, powering through with such intensity and vigor, blasting this baby to life brilliantly. The characters, banter, interactions and charged atmosphere are realistic, complex and genuine with traits and qualities, adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are abundantly descriptive with colorful details that blend and flow, creating one vivid backdrop that's so rich and lively it feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Ava, thanks for sharing this thrilling block buster with us.
Dez is now a part of the rebellion, leading to several victories, but there is still much to be done. She wants to free her parents from the Spirit King, but none believe that is can be done. Dez is determined and frustrated, but knows much is resting on her shoulders. There are still those in the rebellion who do not trust her and those who spread lies about her. Dez finds herself in a position she did not expect, where she begins to learn what it truly means to be a leader and what needs to be put first. The only person who can help Dez is the Dragon Oracle, who can help her save those under the control of the Spirit King. But the Spirit King has bigger plans than anyone expected. Dez and her friends must find a way to stop the Spirit King and his army before all is lost. Dez will have to use her newfound abilities to find a solution before the Spirit King destroys the rebellion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is very important to Desiree Black (“Dez”) that she must free her parents from the Spirit King’s mind trap. Going to the Dragon Oracle, the Spirit King ends up killing the Oracle as well as stealing a dangerous artifact. As the Oracle dies, however, she transfers her powers to Dez to give her a better chance of defeating the Spirit King. But Dez doesn’t know how to use those new powers, and she will have to face the Spirit King alone this time. Can she defeat him? Fast-paced with strong characters willing to die for their cause, the reader eagerly will follow the twists and turns. But knowing where they are taking us is anyone’s guess this time.
The narrator for the audiobook version is Kim Churchill. She does a great job with the voices to personalize the story and make it easy for the listener to get an accurate idea of what each character is like. It helps to set the mood and is a pleasant way to “read” and enjoy the book.
In this second book of the trilogy, the war has moved on a few months and Dez is now a respected captain in the Rebellion. The story moves at a decent pace with some excellent battle scenes. The bond between Dez and Nighsoul is developing and growing stronger and stronger. Nightsoul's more humorous side also starts to come out more in this episode. There is also the beginninf of a love story along with a couple of interesting twists and plot developments in the story give Dez more depth and brings to life some of the other characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and can't wait to see how Dez uses her increasing powers. I am looking forward to the next installment which can't come quickly enough.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
More powers!! Dez wants to free her parents from the mind trap they are in but more important things have to be taken care of first. When she and her leader go to the Dragon Oracle, the Spirit King comes and kills the Oracle and steals a valuable artifact, an artifact that could change the world as they know it. But before dying the Oracle transfers her powers to Dez. Now with her already strong powers she has the Oracle’s too, but she doesn’t know how to use them. The fate of the world is in her hands and she needs to be strong and rely on her closest friends and relatives to forge ahead and defeat the Spirit King. Because if they fail they are all doomed. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
Da der erste Teil auch eher für ein jüngeres Publikum geeignet war, war ich diesmal darauf vorbereitet. Der zweite Band beginnt quasi dort, wo der erste aufgehört hat, auch wenn Des inzwischen anscheinend schon fest zur Rebellion gehört - das passte für mich nicht so gut. Auch den Aufstieg von Des zum Oberbefehlshaber und zum Drachenorakel fand ich etwas zu viel des Guten. Zumal sie natürlich auch noch entdeckt, wie sie eventuell ihre Eltern retten kann. Die Liebesgeschichte, die hier eingebaut wurde, hat für mich leider gar nicht funktioniert. Die Welt wird in diesem Band etwas mehr vorgestellt als im ersten, das war für mich ein großes Plus. Die Welt und Magie haben mir gut gefallen, die Geschichte an sich war leider eher schwach.
After a number of victories for Dez and her new command, she is promoted and gains new insight into what she is bound to become, a true leader. Meeting with the Dragon Oracle and learning there might be a way to save her parents, she sets out to prove that this is possible only to be thrown into new obstacles and has to decide where she stands and what is most important, saving her parents or the rebellion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love Ava’s books, her world building just sucks you in. I can’t get enough of her dragons the people are pretty cool too. This is book to so make sure you have read book one or you might be a little lost, but it was pretty good as well I am definitely looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend this book or any by Ava I have not read one that I was not happy with I know when I start reading one of her books I am going to get a good escape for awhile.
I did receive an arc of this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dragon Oracle by Ava Richardson is an excellently written book and the perfect sequel to dragon source. It continues the story of Diz from dragon source perfectly. Not only does she have to confront new dangers but also old fears. I couldn’t stop reading the book because I wanted to see where the journey her took her. Now I can’t wait until the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book falls in the time period between Dragonspawn and Dragon Oracle Which gives us a fantastic look at our characters and I totally loved it. This book is very well written filled with all the feels of epic battles and the personal interactions between characters. So well done and a gem if your a fan of the series!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I mentioned this is my review of the first book in this trilogy, but the battles seem to go on and on. Beginning to feel like other areas drag on a bit as well, but the story is still a good one. I admit to a little more skimming as the depth of description and expansion of thoughts makes it too wordy for me. I will finish the series, but this feels like a book or story that could have been done in less volume and still been really good.
Things are developing for Dez and the rebellion in this second book in the trilogy and things are not always clear cut or easy. Fast paced with strong characters, the plot twists and turns. The story telling and world building is fantastic. Action packed with growing battles, threats, plots, secrets and dragons. Looking forward to reading the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A superb story full of action, emotional , tragedy and victory. Aha Richardson always creates complex and compelling stories and worlds and this is a great example. I loved the characters, the battles and the ideas. Kim Churchill is an excellent narrator does have a huge range of voices but still manages to bring each characters to life. I am looking forward to reading the final book in the trilogy. I received a complimentary copy of the Audio book and am leaving a honest voluntary review
Dragon Oracle did not disappoint, I could not stop reading; it was fast paced and full of action. I can't wait for the next book in this series. Ava Richardson never disappoints I don't know how she continues to come up with new series but I love it!!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book as well as most of her other books. It's well written and you really get caught up in the story. Some books might have a good story but you still find yourself wanting to do something else instead of reading. Well, this is not one of those.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Deseree Black. An orphan. Or so she believed. Raised by strangers who shared their home and love, but hid a secret. A girl grown into womanhood. Deseree Black scorned by all others, gives her all to protect those who hated and tormented her. And teaches them to love and respect her. A wonderful story that catches your with the first page and never lets your go.
Against all adds, our leader it the rebellion heroine battles great evil. With her are her trusty dragon, two brother, and the young man she has begun to love. They just won a great battle, but the war is not won. They must prepare for the greatest danger ever to save their world. On to the next book in series. I can't wait.
This series is fantastic - beautiful relationships developing between the characters and their dragons, and each other. Nail biting action with a tiny bit of romance thrown in. I loved this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Action jumps at you as soon as you open the book! The interaction of characters is interesting and even in the face of despair love blooms. Can't wait for the last book!
I love this book I would like my granddaughter to read it this girl amazed me with never wanting to quit even though she was afraid I think that something that every young person today should look into even though we have fear we keep going till we win
This is the second time I’m reading the series. I’ve read it before and enjoyed it so much it deserved a second reading to pick out the smaller items I might have missed the first time