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Dragon Born Academy #3
Hard Boiled
A hidden world, secrets, love, betrayal... and dragons.
Sydney Miller-Almost seventeen, unschooled world traveler until the you-know-what hit the fan.
Reality? Gone... yanked out from under me like a cheap Ikea rug. Here are the doozies: Dragons exist in this whole other world! And bondmates exist. Yeah... I'm now bound to a heart-throb Prince to the Dragonborn-Ashe Carrick. Only, the gap is kind of thing for him.
When I end up at the Dragonborn base, Briony, Ashe is there! I'm trying to resist his gorgeous baby blues and focus on other more important things... like George! He's the only one who has answers about my mom, her research, and the dragon realm. According to him, she might be alive! So this is my new obsession and I won't stop until I get to the bottom of it all!
◆
Ashe Carrick-Twenty-three, Lieutenant for the Dragonborn Guard and the Elibera's hope to become Prime Leader of the Dragonborn.
I have a whole host of problems but I can't stop thinking of Sydney, the girl I'm bonded to. I've done my best to keep her at arm's length but she's like a siren. One look from her heats my blood... rousing something ancient and primal within me.
Besides her, I'm dealing with at the Dragonborn base, Briony. The PL has gone entirely off the rails and when George Miller is brought into lockdown, he might have the evidence to bring PL Lambert down-if we can keep him alive.
◆
Hard Boiled is written in dual point of view. Fall into this emotional continuation of the Dragon Born Academy!
What readers are saying...
"the chemistry, the romance, the anger, the betrayal just wow!... in my top 5 reads!!"
- Goodreads reviewer
"Wonderfully written... impossible to put down."
- Goodreads reviewer
"Wow! Absolutely loved this book, cannot wait for the next in the series."
- Goodreads reviewer
The Dragon Born Academy Series:
1. Cracked Open
2. Over Easy
3. Hard Boiled
4. Frying Night
Sydney Miller-Almost seventeen, unschooled world traveler until the you-know-what hit the fan.
Reality? Gone... yanked out from under me like a cheap Ikea rug. Here are the doozies: Dragons exist in this whole other world! And bondmates exist. Yeah... I'm now bound to a heart-throb Prince to the Dragonborn-Ashe Carrick. Only, the gap is kind of thing for him.
When I end up at the Dragonborn base, Briony, Ashe is there! I'm trying to resist his gorgeous baby blues and focus on other more important things... like George! He's the only one who has answers about my mom, her research, and the dragon realm. According to him, she might be alive! So this is my new obsession and I won't stop until I get to the bottom of it all!
◆
Ashe Carrick-Twenty-three, Lieutenant for the Dragonborn Guard and the Elibera's hope to become Prime Leader of the Dragonborn.
I have a whole host of problems but I can't stop thinking of Sydney, the girl I'm bonded to. I've done my best to keep her at arm's length but she's like a siren. One look from her heats my blood... rousing something ancient and primal within me.
Besides her, I'm dealing with at the Dragonborn base, Briony. The PL has gone entirely off the rails and when George Miller is brought into lockdown, he might have the evidence to bring PL Lambert down-if we can keep him alive.
◆
Hard Boiled is written in dual point of view. Fall into this emotional continuation of the Dragon Born Academy!
What readers are saying...
"the chemistry, the romance, the anger, the betrayal just wow!... in my top 5 reads!!"
- Goodreads reviewer
"Wonderfully written... impossible to put down."
- Goodreads reviewer
"Wow! Absolutely loved this book, cannot wait for the next in the series."
- Goodreads reviewer
The Dragon Born Academy Series:
1. Cracked Open
2. Over Easy
3. Hard Boiled
4. Frying Night
318 pages, Paperback
First published February 24, 2021
About the author
T.L. Christianson
25 books876 followersT.L. lives in Colorado with her husband and two children. She’s a graduate of the University of Colorado in Boulder and an avid outdoorswoman. When she's not outside or working on her latest novel, you'll find her reading, listening to science podcasts, or playing the Sims.
WWW.TLCHRISTIANSON.COM
WWW.TLCHRISTIANSON.COM
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
July 28, 2021
Originally posted at:
I have SO many bones to pick with almost all of the adults in this series. They are, for the most part, lying manipulating hypocritical scumbags who seem to take joy in keeping even the most basic information to themselves for *reasons*. It's been some time that I've been this frustrated with a series. The thing is that I actually like the world the author is slowly setting up and the main characters are interesting enough to read about. I would like this series a lot more if basic information was more freely given.
Being in Ashe's head was both a blessing and a curse. I loved how freely information was given to him. It helped the world-building in this series tremendously! I also better understood where he was coming from with him making decisions for Syd where their relationship or lack thereof is concerned. I liked how he worried about her and wanted to protect her, even if it was from himself at times. The bad part? That it ended. I found myself enjoying being in his head way more than being in Syd's head. Because you guessed it, people actually informed him of happenings in the dragon born society and, get this, listened to him! Getting information from anyone in this series is like pulling teeth from Syd's perspective. Being in his head was a great reprieve from all that.
Syd finally started getting some answers by the end of this book and boy was I ecstatic for that! Finding out how much of a hypocrite these people are was a really calming experience for me. I like how even throughout all that has happened she still has a good backbone on her. She's a reasonable person if only the adults listened to her and acted accordingly. I've said it in the past and it bears repeating: Treat her like a child and she's going to act out like one. The revelation of her mother's past was really interesting! Though I resent that it took 3 books to get to it. She should have been told all of this from the beginning.
I wasn't expecting this story to go where it went in the end. Am I intrigued? Yes. Will this mean we get more answers? Hard maybe. Will I give the next book a chance? Probably. At this point I just want the adults (AKA one specific person that I can't name or else spoilers) to get what they deserve. Overall, as frustrating as this series has proven to be I'm still interested enough to put up with the next book to find out what happens next.
I have SO many bones to pick with almost all of the adults in this series. They are, for the most part, lying manipulating hypocritical scumbags who seem to take joy in keeping even the most basic information to themselves for *reasons*. It's been some time that I've been this frustrated with a series. The thing is that I actually like the world the author is slowly setting up and the main characters are interesting enough to read about. I would like this series a lot more if basic information was more freely given.
Being in Ashe's head was both a blessing and a curse. I loved how freely information was given to him. It helped the world-building in this series tremendously! I also better understood where he was coming from with him making decisions for Syd where their relationship or lack thereof is concerned. I liked how he worried about her and wanted to protect her, even if it was from himself at times. The bad part? That it ended. I found myself enjoying being in his head way more than being in Syd's head. Because you guessed it, people actually informed him of happenings in the dragon born society and, get this, listened to him! Getting information from anyone in this series is like pulling teeth from Syd's perspective. Being in his head was a great reprieve from all that.
Syd finally started getting some answers by the end of this book and boy was I ecstatic for that! Finding out how much of a hypocrite these people are was a really calming experience for me. I like how even throughout all that has happened she still has a good backbone on her. She's a reasonable person if only the adults listened to her and acted accordingly. I've said it in the past and it bears repeating: Treat her like a child and she's going to act out like one. The revelation of her mother's past was really interesting! Though I resent that it took 3 books to get to it. She should have been told all of this from the beginning.
I wasn't expecting this story to go where it went in the end. Am I intrigued? Yes. Will this mean we get more answers? Hard maybe. Will I give the next book a chance? Probably. At this point I just want the adults (AKA one specific person that I can't name or else spoilers) to get what they deserve. Overall, as frustrating as this series has proven to be I'm still interested enough to put up with the next book to find out what happens next.
April 23, 2022
I love this series. I patiently waited for this one to come out.
The dynamic between Sydney and Ashe is so great. He made me mad in the last book but was redeemed for me here. I love learning about the dragonborn world. We are learning while Sydney is learning and boy does she pick up things quick. She asks similar questions to what I would ask. I just cannot get enough!
The dynamic between Sydney and Ashe is so great. He made me mad in the last book but was redeemed for me here. I love learning about the dragonborn world. We are learning while Sydney is learning and boy does she pick up things quick. She asks similar questions to what I would ask. I just cannot get enough!
February 23, 2021
“Sydney bewitched me without saying a word, reminding me why I called her my siren.” Ashe
As always, I have no idea where to start with my review. This is book three in the series and books one and two must be read first! And honestly if you haven’t read Cracked Open, and Over Easy what the heck are you waiting for?! Get reading! You will NOT be disappointed at all.
In all honesty this book was the hardest to wait for only because these books are straight up getting better and better! And after this ending, oh boy is the wait for book four going to be absolutely impossible! Once again, the author has absolutely killed it with her writing. I was sucked in from the absolute start and it’s still in my head. I’m still asking myself what’s going to happen next, what could this amazing author have up her sleeve for us in the next book. It flowed so well. I devoured it in less than a day and not because it was a small book, but because I absolutely couldn’t put it down!
In this book it switches every other chapter between Sydney, and Ashe which I absolutely loved! We get way more of Ashe and see such a new side of him that we haven’t seen before. I honestly loved seeing what he does in his daily life and how everything affects him. Ashe is such a diverse character and he’s one of my favorites from this author. He is very intelligent, compassionate, determined, a planner, loyal, and a thinker. But, this book shows just how much of a planner he really is. His life is like a chess game. He is steps ahead of everyone else and has back ups to his backups. It was amazing to see. The only part of his life that throws him for a loop and has him constantly questioning himself is Sydney. He never feels like what he’s doing for her is enough which in this book starts to make him literally go crazy. Sydney is still learning her role in her new life with the Dragonborn. While she has come a great way she still has so much to learn. She’s intelligent, adventurous, sarcastic and snarky, flies by the seat of her pants. She is Ashe’s opposite in a lot of ways that I think he needs to balance him out. She goes through a lot in this book as well and overcomes some huge obstacles. George is back and I love him so much. George has stolen my heart and I loved watching the journey he has and seeing him with Sydney. They have a lot to hash out and I loved reading every bit that happens between them. Ashe and George come to a little bit of an understanding but Ashe is still very iffy of George. George is a very huge puzzle in this book that was absolutely needed to make it work. We also get to meet Corbin, Ashe’s best friend through childhood and Lacey’s brother. I absolutely freaking love corbin! He absolutely made this book and I definitely see why Ashe needs him in his life. He’s smart, loyal to the end, sarcastic, athletic, and reminds me a little of Sydney in a lot of ways. Taya is back and I feel for her in so many ways. Sydney still keeps her on her toes and makes her worry. She is put through a lot in this book binding her closer to Sydney. I loved it. Sydney’s bio dad, as she calls him, is still a huge mystery. I honestly don’t know how I feel about him. I want to trust him but I’m not sure I can...and lastly Durand, Sydney’s uncle. I like him a lot. He’s does a huge favor for Sydney in this book and I’m hoping he’s not corrupt and is the caring uncle he comes off as. Fingers crossed!
“My comfort was in Ashe. My faith was in him. And in an uncertain future, I knew that if we were together, then everything would be all right.” Sydney
We finally get to see Briony! And if you thought the academy was a place full of secrets, lies, of awful people just you wait until you enter Briony. I love that we get to see more of the old ways of the Dragonborn. Although I definitely would NOT want to live there. It’s an incredible place and was easily seen before my very eyes. But don’t get comfortable. This book comes with way more action then book one or two combined! Lines are drawn, plans are seen, secrets are still a thing although a lot is revealed, prison breaks, mind sweeps, dragons mating, Tetrads and what happens if they are denied, and so much more! We finally get to see if the dragon relam is a real thing, we finally learn a lot more about Celine, Sydney’s mom. We see a whole new side of Arthur and the lies he keeps. It’s literally a nonstop action adventure you do NOT want to miss!
Definitely do NOT want to miss this book. Book three is definitely my favorite in the series thus far. T.L. absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one.
I’ll leave you with this quote from Ashe. Shedding a little more light into how he feels about Sydney while also giving us more insight on the dragon bond. Enjoy:
“No. It wasn’t love—or lust—at first sight, it was… I don’t know… something else. Like, something about her called to something deep within me, something primitive and ancient.”
As always, I have no idea where to start with my review. This is book three in the series and books one and two must be read first! And honestly if you haven’t read Cracked Open, and Over Easy what the heck are you waiting for?! Get reading! You will NOT be disappointed at all.
In all honesty this book was the hardest to wait for only because these books are straight up getting better and better! And after this ending, oh boy is the wait for book four going to be absolutely impossible! Once again, the author has absolutely killed it with her writing. I was sucked in from the absolute start and it’s still in my head. I’m still asking myself what’s going to happen next, what could this amazing author have up her sleeve for us in the next book. It flowed so well. I devoured it in less than a day and not because it was a small book, but because I absolutely couldn’t put it down!
In this book it switches every other chapter between Sydney, and Ashe which I absolutely loved! We get way more of Ashe and see such a new side of him that we haven’t seen before. I honestly loved seeing what he does in his daily life and how everything affects him. Ashe is such a diverse character and he’s one of my favorites from this author. He is very intelligent, compassionate, determined, a planner, loyal, and a thinker. But, this book shows just how much of a planner he really is. His life is like a chess game. He is steps ahead of everyone else and has back ups to his backups. It was amazing to see. The only part of his life that throws him for a loop and has him constantly questioning himself is Sydney. He never feels like what he’s doing for her is enough which in this book starts to make him literally go crazy. Sydney is still learning her role in her new life with the Dragonborn. While she has come a great way she still has so much to learn. She’s intelligent, adventurous, sarcastic and snarky, flies by the seat of her pants. She is Ashe’s opposite in a lot of ways that I think he needs to balance him out. She goes through a lot in this book as well and overcomes some huge obstacles. George is back and I love him so much. George has stolen my heart and I loved watching the journey he has and seeing him with Sydney. They have a lot to hash out and I loved reading every bit that happens between them. Ashe and George come to a little bit of an understanding but Ashe is still very iffy of George. George is a very huge puzzle in this book that was absolutely needed to make it work. We also get to meet Corbin, Ashe’s best friend through childhood and Lacey’s brother. I absolutely freaking love corbin! He absolutely made this book and I definitely see why Ashe needs him in his life. He’s smart, loyal to the end, sarcastic, athletic, and reminds me a little of Sydney in a lot of ways. Taya is back and I feel for her in so many ways. Sydney still keeps her on her toes and makes her worry. She is put through a lot in this book binding her closer to Sydney. I loved it. Sydney’s bio dad, as she calls him, is still a huge mystery. I honestly don’t know how I feel about him. I want to trust him but I’m not sure I can...and lastly Durand, Sydney’s uncle. I like him a lot. He’s does a huge favor for Sydney in this book and I’m hoping he’s not corrupt and is the caring uncle he comes off as. Fingers crossed!
“My comfort was in Ashe. My faith was in him. And in an uncertain future, I knew that if we were together, then everything would be all right.” Sydney
We finally get to see Briony! And if you thought the academy was a place full of secrets, lies, of awful people just you wait until you enter Briony. I love that we get to see more of the old ways of the Dragonborn. Although I definitely would NOT want to live there. It’s an incredible place and was easily seen before my very eyes. But don’t get comfortable. This book comes with way more action then book one or two combined! Lines are drawn, plans are seen, secrets are still a thing although a lot is revealed, prison breaks, mind sweeps, dragons mating, Tetrads and what happens if they are denied, and so much more! We finally get to see if the dragon relam is a real thing, we finally learn a lot more about Celine, Sydney’s mom. We see a whole new side of Arthur and the lies he keeps. It’s literally a nonstop action adventure you do NOT want to miss!
Definitely do NOT want to miss this book. Book three is definitely my favorite in the series thus far. T.L. absolutely knocked it out of the park on this one.
I’ll leave you with this quote from Ashe. Shedding a little more light into how he feels about Sydney while also giving us more insight on the dragon bond. Enjoy:
“No. It wasn’t love—or lust—at first sight, it was… I don’t know… something else. Like, something about her called to something deep within me, something primitive and ancient.”
February 26, 2021
Okay, y'all, time for the outsider to weigh in. And by that, I mean the "This-Isn't-My-Usual-Genre," "How-TF-Did-I-Wind-Up-Caring-About-These-Crazy-Dragon-Kids," "Holy-Dragonballs-Batman-How-Am-I-Supposed-To-Wait-Until-The-Next-Book" outsider that, at this point, should stop claiming she doesn't like these kinds of stories.
I am hooked, you guys, and I don't know how TL Christianson manages to do it to me every darn time. I loved the last book (Over Easy, read it first/thank me later) but I finished it thinking Ashe was kind of a...well, Ashe-hole, so I was not expecting to have such affection for him this go 'round. He redeems himself fairly quickly (within the first few pages, I read, "something about her called to something deep within me, something primitive and ancient," and I went ahead and decided to forgive him for all his past sins) and Sydney continues to grow and amaze me as her story progresses.
I was most excited to dive deeper into the mystery of Sydney's mom, and Christianson didn't disappoint. This book was absolutely packed with revelations (and more secrets!) and a ton of action and drama that kept me turning the pages, even as my husband pouted in the next room because I was ignoring him. You'll definitely want to start with book 1 in the series (Cracked Open), or at least take my earlier advice and read book 2 first, but whatever steps you need to take to get prepared (buy snacks? I don't know what y'all do when you read) you 100% need to read this series, especially this book. Each Dragon Born book gets better and better and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't already itching to get my hands on the next one.
I am hooked, you guys, and I don't know how TL Christianson manages to do it to me every darn time. I loved the last book (Over Easy, read it first/thank me later) but I finished it thinking Ashe was kind of a...well, Ashe-hole, so I was not expecting to have such affection for him this go 'round. He redeems himself fairly quickly (within the first few pages, I read, "something about her called to something deep within me, something primitive and ancient," and I went ahead and decided to forgive him for all his past sins) and Sydney continues to grow and amaze me as her story progresses.
I was most excited to dive deeper into the mystery of Sydney's mom, and Christianson didn't disappoint. This book was absolutely packed with revelations (and more secrets!) and a ton of action and drama that kept me turning the pages, even as my husband pouted in the next room because I was ignoring him. You'll definitely want to start with book 1 in the series (Cracked Open), or at least take my earlier advice and read book 2 first, but whatever steps you need to take to get prepared (buy snacks? I don't know what y'all do when you read) you 100% need to read this series, especially this book. Each Dragon Born book gets better and better and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't already itching to get my hands on the next one.
February 11, 2021
Wow.. this is a amazing story line and well written book. I can’t wait till the next one. This story is unique and covers all the bases for an amazing read. T.L. Christianson you have out done yourself again. I don’t want to give any sneak peaks. but, if you enjoyed the first two books and the unique story about Ashe and Sydney you will love were this story is going. I’m on my tippy toes wait for the next chapter. Will Ashe and Sydney be able to move past all the hurts and dragon born opinions? Will the dragon born keep them apart? Is everything with the dragon born cut and dry like they want you to think? As I immerse myself further in to T.L. Christianson world of the dragon born I become more hooked. I can’t keep my imagination form exploring where things are going and how the characters feel. For me they are very real. If you want my opinion you will not go wrong with this read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
February 16, 2021
This is my new favorite series of all time! It has dragons, a forbidden love, adventure, mystery, action, and a great story. The chemistry between Ashe and Sydney wraps you up in each page you turn. This book, unlike the first two, is from both perspectives, which adds even more to the story! The more of the story that is revealed in each book, just sucks you in. I found myself thinking about the book when I wasn’t reading it, and making excuses to go find a comfy spot where I could read more. I highly recommend this series!
February 24, 2021
Loved this! I have been in a book funk for a while and nothing keeping my attention, well this did. I love syd and ashe and their connection, i love the dragonborn world! This book was super gripping and exciting. As usual ended on a cliff hanger so eagerly awaiting the next one!! Eeek
February 27, 2021
I so enjoy reading T.L. Christianson
I love all things paranormal, and Dragons are one of my favorites. Great world-building in this series. Ashe Carrick is a 23-year-old lieutenant at Dragonborn Academy. Ashe recently found his bond-mate 16-year-old Sydney and refuses to compete their bond because she is too young. Sydney has been raised by a human man her whole life, and just found out her true status and that she is bond-mate to Ashe. They are tip-toeing around the situation and each other, but how long can they fight the inevitable?!? There is trouble brewing in their midst, and Ashe has to take charge. I can't wait for book 4!!
I love all things paranormal, and Dragons are one of my favorites. Great world-building in this series. Ashe Carrick is a 23-year-old lieutenant at Dragonborn Academy. Ashe recently found his bond-mate 16-year-old Sydney and refuses to compete their bond because she is too young. Sydney has been raised by a human man her whole life, and just found out her true status and that she is bond-mate to Ashe. They are tip-toeing around the situation and each other, but how long can they fight the inevitable?!? There is trouble brewing in their midst, and Ashe has to take charge. I can't wait for book 4!!
January 2, 2022
Hard Boiled is Book 3 in T.L. Christianson’s Dragon Born Academy series. This book cannot be read as a standalone, as it is a direct continuation from the previous two books. Could. Not. Put. It. Down! T.L. seriously stepped up her game with this book and knocked it out of the park. It is written in Dual POV and that makes this book so freaking good! I was already hooked on the series because it’s such an interesting plot, but adding in Ashe’s POV for the whole book just *Chef’s Kiss* I think if anyone was still on the fence about this age gap relationship, really getting into Ashe’s mind about the situation will put you firmly in the Team Ashe and Sydney camp. We finally get to see Briony which is like the DragonBorn capital. We learn more about the history of the DragonBorn and get a more in-depth look at the families and politics that make this community so complicated. We are finally getting answers to questions that we had in the first two books, and we are getting some insane plot twists that I did NOT see coming. Sydney is finally coming into herself as a DragonBorn Prime and I think she’s finally accepting who she is and beginning to flourish in her new reality. I absolutely LOVE Ashe and Sydney together and I need more! Seeing them learn more about each other and their bond makes you really root for them. There is a cliffhanger and holy cannoli, what a surprise! Such a great story and I really need to find out what happens next! You need to read this series!
ARC graciously given by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
ARC graciously given by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 15, 2021
The storyline is riveting start to end just like the first two books. There were a few moments where I thought the female protagonist didn’t really use her head but it was more of a reflection on the character than the writer. The cliffhanger at the end is perfect. Leaving us wondering what’s next. At the same time, the story had a good plot with some strong emotion evoking moments. Won’t reveal them here to avoid soilers.
More than anything I like that the author has kept things simple and yet there is meaning to it. Eg it’s clear that Arthur loves power and is having trouble letting go. Not just the power but also any control to the Elibera. This resonates with many historical incidents from real life. People are often afraid of change and letting go of ways that work. And yet without evolution, and lack of growth you can get defunct and out of relevance easily. Eg in this storyline if they don’t find innovative ways to evolve, Dragonborns will be outed. Although realistically that’s probably going to happen anyways. Secrets almost always fail to remain so. But going back to my main point, the author has kept the story simple and as short as possible and at the same time there is some depth to it. it’s not just a sequence of events. And Arthur is not just a standard sociopath but rather an old fallible prideful fool.
More than anything I like that the author has kept things simple and yet there is meaning to it. Eg it’s clear that Arthur loves power and is having trouble letting go. Not just the power but also any control to the Elibera. This resonates with many historical incidents from real life. People are often afraid of change and letting go of ways that work. And yet without evolution, and lack of growth you can get defunct and out of relevance easily. Eg in this storyline if they don’t find innovative ways to evolve, Dragonborns will be outed. Although realistically that’s probably going to happen anyways. Secrets almost always fail to remain so. But going back to my main point, the author has kept the story simple and as short as possible and at the same time there is some depth to it. it’s not just a sequence of events. And Arthur is not just a standard sociopath but rather an old fallible prideful fool.
December 25, 2025
Oh. My. God.
This book was absolutely amazing. Since getting it I couldn't put it down.
This third book in the dragon born series takes us even deeper into the universe. The politics, the characters and the romance, everything gets more and more intense.
I absolutely loved the dual pov in this book we get a bigger insight into Ashe's work, the work he does to better the dragon born community and also his feelings. As for Sydney we kept seeing how the people in her life keep trying to control and manipulate her and little by little she learns who are the ones who she really can put her trust into.
I kept checking the pages afraid of reaching the end because I was so consumed with the story and of course the ending will left you craving for more and counting the days until the next release as much as Sydney and Ashe crave each other!
This book was absolutely amazing. Since getting it I couldn't put it down.
This third book in the dragon born series takes us even deeper into the universe. The politics, the characters and the romance, everything gets more and more intense.
I absolutely loved the dual pov in this book we get a bigger insight into Ashe's work, the work he does to better the dragon born community and also his feelings. As for Sydney we kept seeing how the people in her life keep trying to control and manipulate her and little by little she learns who are the ones who she really can put her trust into.
I kept checking the pages afraid of reaching the end because I was so consumed with the story and of course the ending will left you craving for more and counting the days until the next release as much as Sydney and Ashe crave each other!
August 25, 2023
Not a young teen book unless you do not mind sex being a constant raging thought. Is that like our teen years? Yes.
Take the Gor series world as a backdrop, add in teen thinking, a dream guy, massive lust (but so much more), and the mystery of a missing mother. Not terrible, but it felt rushed when it had potential.
Dislikes? There are some guy dialogue which is a bit cringy with a surfer bud. Sydney reminds me of a friend in college who didn't stop to think and acted as if sheer willpower would win. It doesn't. I get Sydney is almost 17 and our brains are not yet fully formed. There is the whole bonding making them all lose their minds. I can hear young readers complaining, "It's not fair!"
Trying to hide a spoiler without saying enough to be a spoiler.
Sydney has a few big goals. She finally gets two of those goals. One of the MAJOR goals she can talk to, but doesn't. She goes off on a crusade to try and save some other ancillary characters. "Yes! Because she is a good person." Fine.
It all feels like the author is trying to get plot points reached and checked off. Dialogues end awkwardly, guy bonding goes into conversations that are stretched, and big moments get snipped.
I get it. Too many participants in a conversation become chapters of dialogue and confusing. Real people talk over each other. People have agendas.
As an author, I get the pressures of making relationships feel real. We often write what we want in our lives to where it feels immature. We slip into a,"I am not happy in my real life. I want to be so close to a really hot guy/girl who knows and accepts me beyond all measure! And we have special powers!"
I think the writer is good. I just think there was some outside pressure to get this one to press, not allowing her to really pound on it to make it tight, surprising, and a rememberable read.
Take the Gor series world as a backdrop, add in teen thinking, a dream guy, massive lust (but so much more), and the mystery of a missing mother. Not terrible, but it felt rushed when it had potential.
Dislikes? There are some guy dialogue which is a bit cringy with a surfer bud. Sydney reminds me of a friend in college who didn't stop to think and acted as if sheer willpower would win. It doesn't. I get Sydney is almost 17 and our brains are not yet fully formed. There is the whole bonding making them all lose their minds. I can hear young readers complaining, "It's not fair!"
Trying to hide a spoiler without saying enough to be a spoiler.
Sydney has a few big goals. She finally gets two of those goals. One of the MAJOR goals she can talk to, but doesn't. She goes off on a crusade to try and save some other ancillary characters. "Yes! Because she is a good person." Fine.
It all feels like the author is trying to get plot points reached and checked off. Dialogues end awkwardly, guy bonding goes into conversations that are stretched, and big moments get snipped.
I get it. Too many participants in a conversation become chapters of dialogue and confusing. Real people talk over each other. People have agendas.
As an author, I get the pressures of making relationships feel real. We often write what we want in our lives to where it feels immature. We slip into a,"I am not happy in my real life. I want to be so close to a really hot guy/girl who knows and accepts me beyond all measure! And we have special powers!"
I think the writer is good. I just think there was some outside pressure to get this one to press, not allowing her to really pound on it to make it tight, surprising, and a rememberable read.
February 13, 2021
Wow what a book! This is the third book in a series and you need to read the first two books to know the storyline. I loved the first two books and I loved this one too. It starts where the second book left off and we find Sydney having to deal with the deep emotional hurt her bondmate inflicted with his decisions over their relationship. We delve deeper into Dragonborn life and learn more about Briony. We meet up again with Evgeni, George and Arthur. Syd and Ashe's relationship develops further in this book. This book pulls you in from the start and the story just flows, it's told from the dual POV of both Syd and Ashe which gives the reader a great insight to how both characters think, feel and act without making the story disjointed. I can't wait for book 4 to see where the author is going to take us and the characters next.
July 22, 2021
I LOVE LOVE THIS Series!!
I can not get enough of this story. This is probably my favorite series of all time. I started reading and had to binge the entire series.
Yes, there's an age gap, but the way it's done is so realistic, honest and soul quenching. The main characters are amazing. Sydney is mature for her age but vulnerable and intriguing as she discovers this new Dragonborn world. I love the world we're thrust into and it's so refreshing to learn along the way with the characters then just be given an information dump :)
Sadly, I almost didn't read this book because of some of the angry reviews, but honestly, I have no idea what book they read because this book was delicately balanced between reality and the world inside this book.
DO NOT MISS OUT! I'm a huge Harry Potter fan, but if I had to choose, I'd choose the Dragon Born Academy.
I can not get enough of this story. This is probably my favorite series of all time. I started reading and had to binge the entire series.
Yes, there's an age gap, but the way it's done is so realistic, honest and soul quenching. The main characters are amazing. Sydney is mature for her age but vulnerable and intriguing as she discovers this new Dragonborn world. I love the world we're thrust into and it's so refreshing to learn along the way with the characters then just be given an information dump :)
Sadly, I almost didn't read this book because of some of the angry reviews, but honestly, I have no idea what book they read because this book was delicately balanced between reality and the world inside this book.
DO NOT MISS OUT! I'm a huge Harry Potter fan, but if I had to choose, I'd choose the Dragon Born Academy.
February 21, 2021
Sydney finds life unbearable away from her bondmate Ashe. She's trying to keep him out of her thoughts, but that's impossible. Especially now, when they are both living in the Dragonborn base! Ashe wants the best for Sydney, and he believes that by giving her space he is protecting her. When George, the man Sydney believed was her father, is imprisoned in the base they have to work together and try to save him, if they want to ensure the survival of the Dragonborn! Hard Boiled is entrancing and magical. Sydney and Ashe are enjoyable characters and I loved their progress in the series! There are important revelations and also new mysteries to solve, but as long as they are together everything is possible!
April 19, 2021
Totally hooked
This is definitely the book of the revelations.
I love some much this serie that I don't know how I'll able to wait for the last volume!!!
In this book, Ashe and Sydney have their own chapter. We get to know better Ashe, his work, how much he plans everything and plays politics games and the most important: his fellings for Sydney!
Sydney still continues to learn more and more about dragonborns and choses her camp. She shows Ashe that she's not the child he thought she was and the dude finally (!!!) begins to understand it!
We learn more about Sydney'mom, George and Evegeni.
The fourth volume promises a new adventure (spoiler!!!) in a new setting.
This is definitely the book of the revelations.
I love some much this serie that I don't know how I'll able to wait for the last volume!!!
In this book, Ashe and Sydney have their own chapter. We get to know better Ashe, his work, how much he plans everything and plays politics games and the most important: his fellings for Sydney!
Sydney still continues to learn more and more about dragonborns and choses her camp. She shows Ashe that she's not the child he thought she was and the dude finally (!!!) begins to understand it!
We learn more about Sydney'mom, George and Evegeni.
The fourth volume promises a new adventure (spoiler!!!) in a new setting.
February 23, 2021
Every book in this series just gets better and better. Sydney and Ashe are still getting their bond sorted out and this latest book gives us alternating pov's from them.
Without giving any spoilers away we definitely find out more of her family backstory, as well as their challenges in getting their society to accept their bond.
Make sure you lock the door and settle in to read without disturbance because I was totally engrossed in the story and didn't put it down till I finished. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
Without giving any spoilers away we definitely find out more of her family backstory, as well as their challenges in getting their society to accept their bond.
Make sure you lock the door and settle in to read without disturbance because I was totally engrossed in the story and didn't put it down till I finished. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
February 24, 2021
This book is an excellent addition to the series. It is well written and the characters and story are both well developed. I love the characters individual personalities and seeing their relationship dynamics develop and evolve through the books. The story was action packed and full of twists and turns. There was suspense, intrigue, emotion and hot chemistry. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!! I’d highly recommend this book and the series so far!!
I received an arc for a voluntary review.
I received an arc for a voluntary review.
July 7, 2025
This book felt like a lot of filler with a mild bang of an ending.
Ashe is your typical male who doesn't get the consequences of his actions, then lovebombs the crap out of his girl to fix it. Sydney is your typical teenage girl who forgives a boy too easily and totally missed the opportunity to torture him with Logan. Lacey is a sleeze, but Corbin is a top tier BFF. The three male parental figures in her life are each garbage in their own way (especially gramps). And in the end, SHE WAS RIGHT.
On to the dragon realm... 🐉🐉🐉
Ashe is your typical male who doesn't get the consequences of his actions, then lovebombs the crap out of his girl to fix it. Sydney is your typical teenage girl who forgives a boy too easily and totally missed the opportunity to torture him with Logan. Lacey is a sleeze, but Corbin is a top tier BFF. The three male parental figures in her life are each garbage in their own way (especially gramps). And in the end, SHE WAS RIGHT.
On to the dragon realm... 🐉🐉🐉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2021
Love this! It keeps you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen next! This is so full of mystery and suspense! Ashe and Sydney are still fighting for their bond because of her age and because of power hungry leaders! Such a great storyline and great characters! I can’t wait to see what comes from the dragon realm! Highly recommend this series! Received arc and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
February 23, 2021
This is a wonderful addition to this thrilling series!
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and this is my honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Such a thrilling read that I couldn't put it down.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and this is my honest review.
March 5, 2021
T.L. Christianson did a good job on this story, Hard Boiled was a strong addition to this series, the plot and characters were strong. Sydney's journey may have it's bumps along the way but she was strong, she'd do what she had to. The connection she had with Ashe was strong, they were drawn to each other, they were made for each other.
I enjoyed this story, looking forward to reading more.
Thank you, T.L. Christianson. Great work :)
I enjoyed this story, looking forward to reading more.
Thank you, T.L. Christianson. Great work :)
July 30, 2021
Ashe and Corbin are the best things about this book. Sydney is just not getting better, in my opinion. She just isn’t showing much growth. I really like her uncle, too. Ashe is truly too good for her.
The story has so much potential, and honestly that is what has kept me reading the series. The writing is also pretty good, few errors. If only I could care about the main character. I will try the next one, but truly I am about to give up on the series.
The story has so much potential, and honestly that is what has kept me reading the series. The writing is also pretty good, few errors. If only I could care about the main character. I will try the next one, but truly I am about to give up on the series.
December 19, 2021
Sydney and Ashe
Sydney goes to visit her Grandparents which is connected to the military compound where Ashe is. She hears that George is in the dungeons and Durand takes her to see him. Ashe and Corbin rescue him and Engevi takes him to safety. They find Celine's notes to the dragon world.
Sydney goes to visit her Grandparents which is connected to the military compound where Ashe is. She hears that George is in the dungeons and Durand takes her to see him. Ashe and Corbin rescue him and Engevi takes him to safety. They find Celine's notes to the dragon world.
July 15, 2022
Exciting!
Sydney has been manipulated and lied to all her life. Now she is constantly moved around like a chess piece in a game she doesn't understand or know the rules to play. Her bond mate keeps pushing her away and says it's for her own good. She is ready to break the rules and live her own life, but knowing who to trust may be her biggest test yet.
Sydney has been manipulated and lied to all her life. Now she is constantly moved around like a chess piece in a game she doesn't understand or know the rules to play. Her bond mate keeps pushing her away and says it's for her own good. She is ready to break the rules and live her own life, but knowing who to trust may be her biggest test yet.
February 12, 2021
Though this book started off super slow, it really picked up once we were able to figure out more about George and Evgeni and their individual dynamics with Celine.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the 3rd book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the 3rd book.
October 27, 2021
I love how sydney and ashe are developing in this one. I also love that sydney is finally starting to find her answers. She is such a sassy, headstrong character and even though she had her moments of weakness she doesn't let the negativity consume her. I can't wait to see where book 4 goes.
Read
November 17, 2021OK, I admit, I'm devouring these books!! Sydney meets her biological dad for the first time, and tries to get answers out of the man who raised her. She and Ashe keep fighting their bond, because sheis 16, and he is 23. Big problem. Big Fun!!
February 10, 2022
And the Story Continues, Yes
Well, we now know a lot more and it has gotten better and cool cliffhanger. Not sure what is next but I'm sure it will be good. We know mostly who are the good guys and who are the bad guys. Thanks T.L. for such an entertaining book. On to Book 4 👍
Well, we now know a lot more and it has gotten better and cool cliffhanger. Not sure what is next but I'm sure it will be good. We know mostly who are the good guys and who are the bad guys. Thanks T.L. for such an entertaining book. On to Book 4 👍
July 8, 2023
Sydney & Ashe
Notes 📝
Book 3 story continues, more answers, family, hate, demands, more questions, WTF 🤬, portals, new world?, dragon world? New cliffhanger…
If you think you have it all figured out 🤣 think again 😅
Loved it can’t wait to read book 4 🥰
Notes 📝
Book 3 story continues, more answers, family, hate, demands, more questions, WTF 🤬, portals, new world?, dragon world? New cliffhanger…
If you think you have it all figured out 🤣 think again 😅
Loved it can’t wait to read book 4 🥰
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