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Elements of Dragons #2
Fire Dragon Blazes Through
Fire dragon shifter Reno only wanted to prove a point, but the spell he accidentally cast bound his reluctant treasure to him, and Blue’s hasty retaliation changed Reno… quite literally.
While Reno finds solace in his tower and the meticulous nature of his research as a master magic user, he is unable to undo his long-ago spell and struggles with guilt—especially when a prickly Blue drops in for his unannounced visits. But something is terribly wrong; Reno is losing his dragon scales—a life-threatening condition. Is it the stress of trying to help so many others… or is something more sinister happening in his own home? When Blue turns up, willing to put aside his animosity to help, Reno must find the courage to move past his fears and give this spark a chance.
With the sweet burst of heat between them, Reno is about to discover Blue is much more than treasure… he is Reno’s mate.
While Reno finds solace in his tower and the meticulous nature of his research as a master magic user, he is unable to undo his long-ago spell and struggles with guilt—especially when a prickly Blue drops in for his unannounced visits. But something is terribly wrong; Reno is losing his dragon scales—a life-threatening condition. Is it the stress of trying to help so many others… or is something more sinister happening in his own home? When Blue turns up, willing to put aside his animosity to help, Reno must find the courage to move past his fears and give this spark a chance.
With the sweet burst of heat between them, Reno is about to discover Blue is much more than treasure… he is Reno’s mate.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2021
About the author
Toshi Drake
19 books41 followersA Canadian author exploring the world of books, Toshi Drake has been dabbling with the idea of writing since they were a young child. An avid fan of all things speculative fiction, they began their journey of creating worlds and books just this past year. While thoroughly loving writing high science fiction, they also dabble in the speculative romance side of queer fiction.
A rabid geek, they spend their weekends playing video games or watching any of the Stars and dreaming of creating a better world for all
A rabid geek, they spend their weekends playing video games or watching any of the Stars and dreaming of creating a better world for all
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 11, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this book. First and foremost, I don't like Blue. The entire book felt like him trying to say "sorry I was insufferable, cruel and permanently disfigured you. Oh and by the way, we're mates so love me now." It felt like a redemption arc without any redeemable characteristics or actions. He did irreparable physical and mental damage to Reno. Even near the end of the book once they reconciled, he would still make cruel comments and then "fix it" with a simple apology. Take away the mates aspect and this reads like an abusive relationship.
On the flip side, Reno was a beautiful, broken character. I loved how his mental pain and social anxiety were portrayed, but how he kept a loving, caring heart. His character was well developed and the writing style highlighted and portrayed his personality rather than stating it, which was refreshing. But as I already said, it's hard to like this book with the abusive nature of his relationship with Blue.
The reasons I didn't rate this book lower: 1. The book is well written, 2. I loved Reno and 3. I enjoyed the world that was portrayed. I doubt I will ever read this book again because it doesn't feel like a love story. I will, however, read more books by this author as it is clear Drake has talent at making deep, real characters. In the future, it may be good to have an outside source weigh in on the relationship between the characters as I don't believe Blue was meant to be abusive but that is how he is portrayed.
On the flip side, Reno was a beautiful, broken character. I loved how his mental pain and social anxiety were portrayed, but how he kept a loving, caring heart. His character was well developed and the writing style highlighted and portrayed his personality rather than stating it, which was refreshing. But as I already said, it's hard to like this book with the abusive nature of his relationship with Blue.
The reasons I didn't rate this book lower: 1. The book is well written, 2. I loved Reno and 3. I enjoyed the world that was portrayed. I doubt I will ever read this book again because it doesn't feel like a love story. I will, however, read more books by this author as it is clear Drake has talent at making deep, real characters. In the future, it may be good to have an outside source weigh in on the relationship between the characters as I don't believe Blue was meant to be abusive but that is how he is portrayed.
January 19, 2021
this was kinda inbetween a 3 and 4... i enjoyed the dragon aspect of this.. it was well written.. but parts of it annoyed me... some spots i just wanted to throw my kindle and not in a good way.. overall i did enjoy it and cant wait to read the next one but just wish the dragons were more..... idk something.
January 13, 2021
Reno and Blue, two dragons meant to be mates. They live through hundreds of years of angst before they finally get it right.
I found Blue kind of mean in an oh shucks, I’m sorry, kind of way. I picture dragons as being strong and willful. Reno however was pretty much a cry-baby. I felt like the story got better once they sort of ironed out the issues keeping them apart. I did like the supporting cast. Even the bad guy had good moments.
Well written and it flows very well with the first book. The author obviously spent some time fleshing out the personalities of their dragon heroes. Even though I didn’t care for them at times, I felt I understood their underlying need to be together, even if it hurt.
This book was okay. I will definitely follow this author in the future.
I received an arc of this book.
I found Blue kind of mean in an oh shucks, I’m sorry, kind of way. I picture dragons as being strong and willful. Reno however was pretty much a cry-baby. I felt like the story got better once they sort of ironed out the issues keeping them apart. I did like the supporting cast. Even the bad guy had good moments.
Well written and it flows very well with the first book. The author obviously spent some time fleshing out the personalities of their dragon heroes. Even though I didn’t care for them at times, I felt I understood their underlying need to be together, even if it hurt.
This book was okay. I will definitely follow this author in the future.
I received an arc of this book.
March 10, 2022
What I Think: Oh dear, from frying pan to fire! This starts with such a tragedy that just wincing didn’t cut it. I wanted to throw up and bite my finger (I did the latter). Because, how do the best intentioned things turn out so wrong?! The ouching is real! I thought I’d seen all the possible mate tropes but this appeals to me personally and is just so beautiful. Perhaps because I’ve aways valued my loved ones above every other thing? Why bother making inanimate things my treasure when I can pour myself out for my loved ones? Isn’t that the true price of love? Now, I don’t know who to cry for. Reno who can’t forgive himself and believes himself unwanted and unloved. Blue, who also believes himself unwanted and cares but doesn’t know what to do or how to show his love. And is such a brat my hands were itching to put him over my knee because I don’t trust him with my baby. Also, naughty boys should be punished. This is fact and not because I’ve been contaminated by Reno’s longing. The walls they’ve built over the decades keep blocking their true sight of each other. What a mess! Finally. My boy Blue is stepping up. The boy’s got some sweet moves and Reno is so dead. Cue in useless people because haters just have to be haters. Samson is a douche and Reno is so used to being used that he can’t see it. Blue should have been allowed to eviscerate the bastard on the spot. Nansins! Side Step – I’m having a bit of a mind fuck moment. I don’t know if its worrying or disturbing that Reno’s fears mirror mine exactly. I haven’t even found love yet and I ask my sister all these questions. If I were to find it, I most likely wouldn’t see it, too busy trying to be perfect for everyone. And if it were to chase me, I’d be so terrified that I’d run like the wind. Yet, Reno is everything that is sweet, loveable, steady, strong, fierce, and he doesn’t need to be anything but what he is. And now I’m wondering if my sister might be right and there’s a chance, just a chance I might, might, have one or two of those good qualities that would make me worthy of being loved. It’s truly mind-boggling to even wrap my mind around. Okay, let’s continue our walk. If all this petting and making out doesn’t kill me, nothing will. Then, after a magnificent claiming that made me realise these two had already claimed each other, but just needed to make the conscious decision to follow through, it ended. Ah, how do I say this without sounding greedy? I need to see a Reno who unleashes all the hunger he’s ever had for Blue because I loved him first! Please, please, gimme more.
Verdict? A comfort keeper of a fairytale that cuts deep and soothes even as it shows that love truly is a conscious choice based on our heart’s will!
Verdict? A comfort keeper of a fairytale that cuts deep and soothes even as it shows that love truly is a conscious choice based on our heart’s will!
August 15, 2021
2.5 stars
I was excited to get this book and read a great enemies-to-lovers trope. They seemed to have some good chemistry in Phin and Nick’s book, but that just didn’t translate to this book. Blue was supposed to be some kind of perpetual ne’er-do-well who was never serious, and yet he spent this entire book being nothing but serious. Reno was supposedly always the epitome of calm self-control who spent this entire book neither in control of himself, or his surroundings.
What we got was two idiots, with minimal lust for one another, who haven’t had a conversation in centuries, suddenly trying a bit to have a relationship because the dragon with the greatest understanding of magic in ever, can’t recognize a magical attack against him.
Overall, I’m still interested in this series, and I’m optimistic that Adolphus’ book will be interesting, but this one fell flat for me.
I was excited to get this book and read a great enemies-to-lovers trope. They seemed to have some good chemistry in Phin and Nick’s book, but that just didn’t translate to this book. Blue was supposed to be some kind of perpetual ne’er-do-well who was never serious, and yet he spent this entire book being nothing but serious. Reno was supposedly always the epitome of calm self-control who spent this entire book neither in control of himself, or his surroundings.
What we got was two idiots, with minimal lust for one another, who haven’t had a conversation in centuries, suddenly trying a bit to have a relationship because the dragon with the greatest understanding of magic in ever, can’t recognize a magical attack against him.
Overall, I’m still interested in this series, and I’m optimistic that Adolphus’ book will be interesting, but this one fell flat for me.
January 23, 2021
I have been waiting for this story since I finished Lightning Dragon Strikes Out. Reno & Sky were great side characters in the previous book and they were equally great main characters.
Reno needs order and to follow his check list. Sky is flighty and can be abrasive. Even though they are very different from each other they are also perfect for each other. After they both made mistakes long ago they can’t get past their bickering Acquaintanceship.
When Reno fall ills Sky realizes he needs to be honest about his he feels. Sky tries to show Reno how he feels but Reno is wary of Sky’s kindness. While trying to build a relationship they also have to try and figure out what is causing Reno to be so ill.
This was a very sweet, slow burn romance. I really enjoyed it.
I did receive a free ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews but that did not influence my review.
Reno needs order and to follow his check list. Sky is flighty and can be abrasive. Even though they are very different from each other they are also perfect for each other. After they both made mistakes long ago they can’t get past their bickering Acquaintanceship.
When Reno fall ills Sky realizes he needs to be honest about his he feels. Sky tries to show Reno how he feels but Reno is wary of Sky’s kindness. While trying to build a relationship they also have to try and figure out what is causing Reno to be so ill.
This was a very sweet, slow burn romance. I really enjoyed it.
I did receive a free ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews but that did not influence my review.
January 31, 2021
Centuries go by
Reno been been an apprentice scientist for the grandmaster when he had first come across Skylark aka Blue at College, he was fascinated by the Sky dragon and could listen to him for hours. He had become convinced that Blue was meant to be his treasure ( for as we know dragons all like to have hoards of treasure) and had cast a spell unfortunately Blue had sent a spell back at him without realising what the consequences would be!
It would take them many centuries to fully understand what they were meant to be to each other.
Interesting read with lots of twists in the plot.
Reno been been an apprentice scientist for the grandmaster when he had first come across Skylark aka Blue at College, he was fascinated by the Sky dragon and could listen to him for hours. He had become convinced that Blue was meant to be his treasure ( for as we know dragons all like to have hoards of treasure) and had cast a spell unfortunately Blue had sent a spell back at him without realising what the consequences would be!
It would take them many centuries to fully understand what they were meant to be to each other.
Interesting read with lots of twists in the plot.
January 18, 2021
Good reading
The second book in this Dragon series starts with spell going awry. I felt for Reno who is taking on too much, anxious and is stressing over everything, he is so used to Blue being aggressive and snapish that when Blue is sweet and conciliatory he doesn't know how to react. Blue has grown from when Reno first met him, but he is taken a back by Reno's condition and confidence during this visit.
I really liked this book even more than the first. Hope that there is more books in this series worth reading.
The second book in this Dragon series starts with spell going awry. I felt for Reno who is taking on too much, anxious and is stressing over everything, he is so used to Blue being aggressive and snapish that when Blue is sweet and conciliatory he doesn't know how to react. Blue has grown from when Reno first met him, but he is taken a back by Reno's condition and confidence during this visit.
I really liked this book even more than the first. Hope that there is more books in this series worth reading.
February 1, 2021
This is the second book in The Elements of Dragons Series. A rather stressful read with a lot of angst. The book was well written even with my issues with the characters. They were more of a subjective opinion not on how they were written. Some characteristic work for me while others don’t and Blue didn’t. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. I found the story and characters interesting. The characters were developed and thought out. Reno and Blue are the MC’s of this book and mates. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
January 30, 2021
This was such a fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, slow burning, endearing, engaging, lovely, sweet, emotionally charged, tug-at-your-heartstrings, and totally awesome twist on the usual dragon shifter storyline. I fell in love with Reno from the very beginning, and I must admit to being severely tempted to rattle the teeth of a certain character. I was hooked from beginning to end, and would definitely recommend getting this gem for yourself.
December 27, 2021
Another fun read in this dragon series. I enjoyed Reno and Sky’s dance around each other in the first book, so I really wanted their story here. Was not disappointed! And I loved that Phinn and Nick were closely involved as friends, trying to give couples advice. Turnaround is fair play. Made me laugh.
January 17, 2021
Another great add to the series. Reno and Blue are a perfect couple and mates. Can't wait for the next. I voluntarily reviewed an 'Advance Author’s Copy' of this book.
April 10, 2021
A well written and interesting book but slow.
January 24, 2021
“Is that what you think of me?” – BLUE
“I don’t know. I don’t understand. You always flitted in and out, grumpy as f**k and you were always on the offensive.” – RENO
OK, I really didn’t like Blue not at first and not even when he started coming around and showing Reno some love. I also didn’t feel any connection between the two. Reno wanted Blue and that I felt. Blue was just rude and uncaring. Even later in the book I felt like it was just too late for him to redeem himself.
The story overall was good as long as I took out the “romance”. I liked the world the author created and thought the book was well written. I really liked Reno as his character was emotional and so caring. At times my heart really hurt for him. I only continued reading this story because of Reno. I really wanted to know what was happening to him.
“I don’t know. I don’t understand. You always flitted in and out, grumpy as f**k and you were always on the offensive.” – RENO
OK, I really didn’t like Blue not at first and not even when he started coming around and showing Reno some love. I also didn’t feel any connection between the two. Reno wanted Blue and that I felt. Blue was just rude and uncaring. Even later in the book I felt like it was just too late for him to redeem himself.
The story overall was good as long as I took out the “romance”. I liked the world the author created and thought the book was well written. I really liked Reno as his character was emotional and so caring. At times my heart really hurt for him. I only continued reading this story because of Reno. I really wanted to know what was happening to him.
January 24, 2021
When a simple miscalculation leads to such pain, it opens up alot of avenues. Reno is such a tortured soul and keeps to his own little corner of the world but Blue just barges in whenever he pleases and causes unrest. This was so sweet and endearing but a very slow burn. Blue was quite hot headed and always put his foot in it never realising how he made Reno feel but he does start to make redeeming measures. The side plot of Reno loosing his scales never overshadowed the obvious feelings and love that were shown throughout. I loved how Blue never filtered his language around others especially the big boss of dragons, Reno had a quiet strength about him that should never be underestimated, overall a charming book with guest appearances from Phin and Nick.
January 24, 2021
Our two main characters have lived lives of guilt, unhappiness and agoraphobia because of spells they cast that went so wrong when they were young. They drift in and out of each other lives trying to make things right, trying to help others and finally have to face reality when Reno's life is threatened. I really enjoyed this emotional story and was glad to finally see these two solve the mystery and accept themselves as fated mates. I look forward to more in this series as this second story improved in plot and especially character development over the first and I expect the next to be even better.
January 14, 2021
I loved this one way more than the first book. This one did not leave me with all kinds like book one. The way this one was written, they didn't matter. So anyway, in the first book I was enamored with Blue & couldn't wait for his & Reno's story. Blue & Reno have know each other for an extremely long time. When they were in school, Reno was smitten and would hang on Blue's every word. Reno casts a spell for his treasure to "see" him and it goes wrong & binds them. In anger, Blue casts a spell and it really hurts Reno. Of course we find out that Blue was immediately sorry for it, but the damage was done. Fast forward many years later & Reno is such an introvert that he just broke my heart. He doesn't leave his rundown castle, doesn't socialize & barely takes care of himself. He is the one everyone goes to for help with just about everything. He is given two apprentices to teach just as Blue pops back up. Blue can't believe his eyes when he sees Reno & how bad he is physically. The bad person, is obvious, but why they did what they did isn't. Blue talks Reno into going to visit Phin & Nick for much needed R&R & it was painful to see him fight Blue as he didn't want to leave the castle. He puts so much pressure on himself to make everyone else happy. We get to see Blue open up and woo his mate. Reno thinks that Blue isn't sincere, but Blue does get Reno to realize that he is his true mate and that he is happy to be his treasure. It was not an easy road, but they finally bond the way they were supposed to.
ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2021
Fire Dragon Blazes Through definitely brings the angst and a whole lot more.
Reno and Blue have misunderstood each other for way to long. This has caused both immeasurable pain. Can they overcome the past and realize that they are true mates?
I enjoyed going along with them as they worked towards their HEA.
I'm looking forward to more in this series.
Reno and Blue have misunderstood each other for way to long. This has caused both immeasurable pain. Can they overcome the past and realize that they are true mates?
I enjoyed going along with them as they worked towards their HEA.
I'm looking forward to more in this series.
January 11, 2021
I absolutely adored this story. It was complete and total magic. (I also really love stories about dragons.) My heart totally broke for poor Reno in this tale because all he has ever wanted is to be loved and the object of his affections goes out of his way to make his existence a trial. Blue is a bit of an ass because he doesn’t want to admit that just maybe he might have feelings for the now reclusive fire dragon. Blue learns the hard way that his previous actions have consequences as he realizes that Reno actually means a great deal more to him than he thought and now he has to convince said dragon that he isn’t playing a trick on him. Blue sets out to woo Reno and also figure out why there is something so physically wrong with his beloved fire dragon. There is a mystery here to solve as well as the relationship to work the kinks out of and I loved every page of this delightful story. I did find myself in tears a few times as my heart ached for both of them as they worked out their differences. This author really has a gift in describing the emotions that are going through the characters. I would have loved for this story to have several more chapters but maybe we will get to see more of these two in future stories. I didn’t realize it was second in a series until after I met two of the other characters. It did not detract from my enjoyment of the book. I will have to go read the first one now. I did read an arc of this one (and loved every word!)
January 11, 2021
Shy, awkward, brilliant Reno just wants brash, vivacious, forceful Blue to notice him-- and then, to fall for him the way he’s already fallen. An epic misunderstanding leads to two botched spells, and hundreds of years pass before Reno and Blue manage to start working past their catastrophic beginning. I loved Reno as a character-- he’s kind, thoughtful, and just wants the best for people. He’s also cripplingly insecure, a problem not helped by the fact that Blue has been flirting with him by picking on him, schoolyard bully style, for centuries. Blue is overbearing and combative, and he interprets Reno’s shyness as rejection. He’s also impatient, and speaks (often cruelly) before he thinks. While he does eventually realize that he’s gone about his relationship with Reno in all the wrong ways, it was tough for me at times, even after his redemptive realization, to find him entirely sympathetic. He does real damage to Reno-- physically and mentally-- but he does also evolve into Reno’s greatest champion, and saves his life, so I suppose that does balance the scales. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and was happy to see Blue and Reno get their HEA.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2021
This was a really good read especially after the half way point so don't quit reading.
I received an advanced copy of this book and was not required to leave a review
I received an advanced copy of this book and was not required to leave a review
January 13, 2021
To me this was a well and truly good book. However, I cannot say that I felt that Blue and Reno belonged together. I understand the whole "bound you to me" but they never had a connection. Possibly if there had been more dialogue between them and it feeling like all of it was one sided by Reno, I could have accepted them. Yes, there was talk on Blue's side that had him all messed up because of Reno, but it was not enough connection to me. The story however was really good. It kept me reading and wanting to know what was happening. The drama and danger mixed in was really good. So, there was more to the story line than Blue and Reno for me. Outside of that, again, the story was good.
I received an ARC from the GRR Team and voluntarily read it for an honest review.
I received an ARC from the GRR Team and voluntarily read it for an honest review.
January 17, 2021
I loved this story, even more than the first in the series. It's not your typical dragon fare - these are cuddly, adorable, insecure dragon shifters, and all that may imply. Cozy-mystery-lite style dragons, if you will. There's a bit of a mystery and a lot of miscommunication but Reno and Blue were just adorable. These are manga/anime-style cuddly dragon shifters in love, and I loved them.
January 12, 2021
Wow!! Just wow! This was an awesome follow up to the Lightning Dragon Strikes Out! I absolutely loved this story and I’m so glad that Reno and Blue got their story! Reno was a fire Dragon whose magic had gone horribly wrong when he tried to (accidentally) bond Blue to him as his treasure and Blue fired back a curse as well. Reno then hides from the world for centuries. But Blue keeps popping in to see Reno. This was sooo good!! I literally stayed up all night reading it, couldn’t put it down. I loved the snark that Blue couldn’t stop spewing! I loved that we got a lot of Phin and Nick. Such a great group of secondary characters throughout the story line. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
August 28, 2023
I really like this book. This is an excellent follow up to Lightning Dragon Strikes Out. I love both of characters in this book. Reno is your typical smart, kind, cinnamon roll, who lacks social awareness. Blue makes a perfect contrast to Reno. Blue is everything you expect from a tsundere type character. He’s brash and funny, and oh so protective of Reno. Their love story is the best out of all three books.
January 11, 2021
Reno and Blue’s journey to their HEA was a sweet yet heartfelt one.
Reno’s vulnerabilities and fears showed through the cracks. My heart ached every time he questioned his worth. He was shy and a little awkward but he needed a strong protector and Blue was perfect for him.
Blue had several lessons to learn when it came to his mate. He had learn to be patient, to listen and approach Reno in a more gentler way. He got there in the end
These two were sweet together. They didn’t get off on the right foot but their bond pulled them together.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
Reno’s vulnerabilities and fears showed through the cracks. My heart ached every time he questioned his worth. He was shy and a little awkward but he needed a strong protector and Blue was perfect for him.
Blue had several lessons to learn when it came to his mate. He had learn to be patient, to listen and approach Reno in a more gentler way. He got there in the end
These two were sweet together. They didn’t get off on the right foot but their bond pulled them together.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
January 11, 2021
Blue and Reno story was so sweet and funny, with a side of mischievous and gentle teasing but also with an ambitious apprentice that wants recognition but goes to the dark side.
The way their relationship blooms and progress is heart warming and the way they try to understand and support each other is so endearing and sweet.
Their journey to happiness is a long one that was paved with misunderstanding, youth errors, and awkwardness in expressing ones feelings.
And enjoyable read that will put a smile on your face and will make you wish for happiness and giggles.
The way their relationship blooms and progress is heart warming and the way they try to understand and support each other is so endearing and sweet.
Their journey to happiness is a long one that was paved with misunderstanding, youth errors, and awkwardness in expressing ones feelings.
And enjoyable read that will put a smile on your face and will make you wish for happiness and giggles.
January 13, 2021
This was the one I most wanted. I loved the first book but I needed Reno snd Blue happy. Talk about a long time coming with two guys who really needed to learn, grow, and forgive themselves. So beautifully written. And the world, I don’t want to leave it.
January 25, 2021
I liked this story. It’s rather sweet. Reno is a scientist and thinks that Blue is his treasure. He casts a spell, the Blue casts a spell and it all goes haywire. When Blue realizes they are mates, Reno has already given up. There’s a bit of suspense in this book, and sweet romance I mentioned. I like Reno’s innocence, their loyal friends and the world building.
December 17, 2021
Dragons are a favorite subject for me. I'm endlessly fascinated by an author's interpretation and depiction of them. This book is a delight. Blue and Reno have a long history highlighted by misunderstandings. Once they are on the same page, though, their story is super sweet and very hot.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews