What do you think?
Rate this book
Songs of Chaos #2
Unbound
Sometimes the world needs a little chaos.
Holt and Ash saved the kingdom of Feorlen against all odds. Now they are outcasts, alone on an impossible quest to unite the Elder Dragons. But they are children playing in a game of Dragon Lords. Trapped between the riders, servants of Sovereign, and the scourge, even their luck cannot last forever. Their only hope is to advance their bond by any means necessary.
In Feorlen, Talia faces a world unaccepting of a rider queen. Her councilors will not heed her warnings of Sovereign. Foreign powers threaten war and bloodshed. Pleas sent to rider headquarters fall on deaf ears.
All the while, Sovereign regathers his strength in an ancient fortress. Enthralled cultists swell his ranks. Disillusioned riders flock to his cause.
And his unwilling servant Osric Agravain scours the land for dragon eggs. There are new types of magic to be discovered, and Sovereign intends to control them all.
Only the mysterious half-dragon Rake has a plan to stop Sovereign. To pull it off, he’s going to need a team.
Unbound continues this award winning, bestselling dragon rider epic fantasy combining the best of Eragon and Pern with the hard magic of Brandon Sanderson and Will Wight.
Holt and Ash saved the kingdom of Feorlen against all odds. Now they are outcasts, alone on an impossible quest to unite the Elder Dragons. But they are children playing in a game of Dragon Lords. Trapped between the riders, servants of Sovereign, and the scourge, even their luck cannot last forever. Their only hope is to advance their bond by any means necessary.
In Feorlen, Talia faces a world unaccepting of a rider queen. Her councilors will not heed her warnings of Sovereign. Foreign powers threaten war and bloodshed. Pleas sent to rider headquarters fall on deaf ears.
All the while, Sovereign regathers his strength in an ancient fortress. Enthralled cultists swell his ranks. Disillusioned riders flock to his cause.
And his unwilling servant Osric Agravain scours the land for dragon eggs. There are new types of magic to be discovered, and Sovereign intends to control them all.
Only the mysterious half-dragon Rake has a plan to stop Sovereign. To pull it off, he’s going to need a team.
Unbound continues this award winning, bestselling dragon rider epic fantasy combining the best of Eragon and Pern with the hard magic of Brandon Sanderson and Will Wight.
686 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2021
2097 people are currently reading
3844 people want to read
About the author
Michael R. Miller
13 books1,208 followersTwo free novellas in ebook AND audiobook for all who sign up to my mailing list. https://www.michaelrmiller.co.uk/signup
Those who use Discord can also join my server by following this link https://discord.gg/C7zEJXgFSc
Redditors can join the community here - https://www.reddit.com/r/MichaelRMiller/
Michael is ‘that guy’ who enjoys - well, enjoyed... - discussing the mad fan theories of Game of Thrones even more than the books or show, and knows more about World of Warcraft than is probably healthy.
You can contact him at michael@michaelrmiller.co.uk
www.michaelrmiller.co.uk
Those who use Discord can also join my server by following this link https://discord.gg/C7zEJXgFSc
Redditors can join the community here - https://www.reddit.com/r/MichaelRMiller/
Michael is ‘that guy’ who enjoys - well, enjoyed... - discussing the mad fan theories of Game of Thrones even more than the books or show, and knows more about World of Warcraft than is probably healthy.
You can contact him at michael@michaelrmiller.co.uk
www.michaelrmiller.co.uk
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 438 reviews
December 4, 2023
Review copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/5 stars
Unbound is where Songs of Chaos truly transformed to a progression dragon rider epic fantasy series.
Dragon rider fantasy has returned to popularity in the year 2023. Most readers will link this resurgence to Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Murtagh by Christopher Paolini, and hopefully The Bound and the Broken by Ryan Cahill. But I think readers will be missing out if they skip on Songs of Chaos series by Michael R. Miller. Especially if you’re a reader who loves reading progression fantasy. I cannot emphasize this highly enough. Many reviewers recommend readers to read Ascendant if they want to read something that reminds them of Eragon by Paolini. I am guilty of this myself, and I stand by my words. But it would be a mistake to blindly recommend that once you reached Unbound. The series has fully tapped into the progression fantasy aspect, and I honestly enjoyed Ascendant slightly more than Unbound because of that. However, that’s only a matter of my preference in dragon rider fantasy. The increased positive average ratings should speak enough for its quality among the fans.
Unbound takes place immediately after the end of Ascendant. I will focus on our main duo first: Holt and Ash. Holt and Ash have a new and impossible mission to accomplish. To unite the Elder dragons. But they are trapped between the riders, Sovereign, and the scourge. They realize it is mandatory that they proceed to advance their bonds and power further and soon to achieve their goals. And Rake will make sure they succeed at this, no matter what danger they face. As I said, Unbound is a progression dragon rider fantasy. It is a different kind of book compared to its predecessor. Ascendant was more classic dragon rider fantasy with a progression fantasy aspect. Unbound is the reverse of it. Most of the first half of Unbound seeks to explore Holt and Ash's training montage and advancement into a new level of power and bond. I imagine this training process will be an absolute delight to diehard fans of progression fantasy. Even in Cradle by Will Wight, a progression fantasy series I highly enjoyed, the training and advancement montage occasionally turned sluggish for me to read. And unfortunately, I encountered a similar experience in Unbound.
This isn't to say the cooking and food elements weren't well-written, though. The importance of food and recipes is one of the most distinct identities of Songs of Chaos as a dragon rider fantasy series. I had a great time reading how Miller integrated them into the story. That said, what I loved most about Ascendant is Holt and Ash. How they developed their bond. Their heart-to-heart conversation. This was missing in the first half of Unbound, and thankfully, I did finally get that once the narrative reached the second half of the novel. It goes without saying I ended up enjoying the remaining half of Unbound much more than the first half. If you are here, I assume you have seen the beautiful cover art illustrated by Randy Vargas, with Holt blindfolded riding Ash. Reading the scene in Unbound where Holt used a bandana to cover his sight was so good, and the gradual understanding they built for one another is done with heart.
However, the strength of Unbound doesn't lie solely in Holt and Ash. Another main reason for my enjoyment is a new integral POV character Miller added: Osric Tagravain. In Ascendant, most of the narrative is told from the perspective of Holt. Miller decided to use three POV characters in Unbound, and I believe the addition of Osric’s POV chapters is necessary for the series. Here is the thing. It is pretty easy to tell who is the good and the bad guys in Songs of Chaos series. There is nothing wrong with that. Admittedly, I prefer more complexity and more morally grey characters and decisions. Osric Agravain provided that dynamic. His background and predicament shaped him into such an intriguing character, and in my honest opinion, he is the most complex POV character in the series so far. More than Holt and Ash, even if I loved reading about them more. But how could I resist reading a morally grey character who has to determine whether his harsh actions are fully controlled? The blacksmithing and forging of Vengeance and Spite in Osric's chapters were well-written and well-researched. And the development he has with Sovereign and a specific shadow dragon was incredibly implemented for different reasons.
With all these praises said you might wonder what it is about Unbound that decreased my reading enjoyment. Well, I am sad to say this... Talia's chapters in Unbound did not work with me. At all. For the majority of Unbound, the human politicking storyline in her chapters felt too long and almost unrelated to Holt and Osric's conflict. The politics of the world strained the pacing, especially in the first half of Unbound. Additionally, the supporting and side characters introduced in Talia's chapters never felt engaging enough for me to read. Definitely not when compared to Rake and the other characters in Holt and Osric's POV chapters. As I write this review, I remember no one from Talia's POV chapters except Talia herself and her dragon, Pyra. They were not memorable enough. I found Talia and Pyra's scenes worked better when they were together with Holt and Ash in the same scene. That's why the found family trope worked so well in Ascendant, but in Unbound, they were barely together in the same scene. I certainly liked the end result of Talia and Pyra's story in Unbound; it's just a shame the execution to get there sadly did not click with me. Not as much as I wanted to.
The journey of Holt and Ash is far from over. We are not even halfway through the five-book series yet. The intense focus on the progression fantasy training montage in the first half and Talia’s storyline did make me enjoy Unbound slightly less than Ascendant. But there is no doubt Unbound is still a great book. It felt like a crucial installment and foothold the series needed for the rest of Songs of Chaos to sing louder. If it had followed the same structure and progression Ascendant had, I do not think the series could last five books in total. Based on where the story ended for Holt and Ash, Osric and the Shadow Dragon, and Talia and Pyra, Defiant has all the potential to become the strongest installment in the series so far. And to find out the continuation of these character's journey, I look forward to reading Defiant soon.
You can order this book from: Amazon | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Aliysa, Ambrosius, Andrew, Andrew W, Annabeth, Arliss, Barbara, Biskit, Brad, Cade, Chris, Christopher, Cullen, Dan, David, Dernerror, Donuts, Dylan, Edward, Elaine, Elias, Ellen, Francesca, Frank, Garrick, Gary, Gregory, Hamad, Helen, Jenn, Jesse, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Jonathan, Jordan, Kristina, Lara, Lourdes, Luis, Melinda, Michael, Michael, Mike, Miracle, Mordie, Nicholas, Norbert, Radiah, RCT, Redmischief, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawn, Tiffany, Tori, Tracy, Trish, TS, Wendy, Wick, Woodman, Xero, Yuri, Zoe.
3.5/5 stars
Unbound is where Songs of Chaos truly transformed to a progression dragon rider epic fantasy series.
Dragon rider fantasy has returned to popularity in the year 2023. Most readers will link this resurgence to Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, Murtagh by Christopher Paolini, and hopefully The Bound and the Broken by Ryan Cahill. But I think readers will be missing out if they skip on Songs of Chaos series by Michael R. Miller. Especially if you’re a reader who loves reading progression fantasy. I cannot emphasize this highly enough. Many reviewers recommend readers to read Ascendant if they want to read something that reminds them of Eragon by Paolini. I am guilty of this myself, and I stand by my words. But it would be a mistake to blindly recommend that once you reached Unbound. The series has fully tapped into the progression fantasy aspect, and I honestly enjoyed Ascendant slightly more than Unbound because of that. However, that’s only a matter of my preference in dragon rider fantasy. The increased positive average ratings should speak enough for its quality among the fans.
“It is life, young one. Our true strength lies not in staving off suffering but in how we deal with it when the time comes.”
Unbound takes place immediately after the end of Ascendant. I will focus on our main duo first: Holt and Ash. Holt and Ash have a new and impossible mission to accomplish. To unite the Elder dragons. But they are trapped between the riders, Sovereign, and the scourge. They realize it is mandatory that they proceed to advance their bonds and power further and soon to achieve their goals. And Rake will make sure they succeed at this, no matter what danger they face. As I said, Unbound is a progression dragon rider fantasy. It is a different kind of book compared to its predecessor. Ascendant was more classic dragon rider fantasy with a progression fantasy aspect. Unbound is the reverse of it. Most of the first half of Unbound seeks to explore Holt and Ash's training montage and advancement into a new level of power and bond. I imagine this training process will be an absolute delight to diehard fans of progression fantasy. Even in Cradle by Will Wight, a progression fantasy series I highly enjoyed, the training and advancement montage occasionally turned sluggish for me to read. And unfortunately, I encountered a similar experience in Unbound.
“That, my young friend, is the only thing more dangerous. To give in. An easy thing to do. In fact, it’s the easiest thing of all. So, sure, give up all hope in the face of adversity. Yet know that if you surrender yourself to that dark void, you will lose empathy and disconnect from anyone and anything you once cared about. If the world and those in it are so terrible, then why not allow the scourge to win? Why fight if nothing is worth fighting for?”
This isn't to say the cooking and food elements weren't well-written, though. The importance of food and recipes is one of the most distinct identities of Songs of Chaos as a dragon rider fantasy series. I had a great time reading how Miller integrated them into the story. That said, what I loved most about Ascendant is Holt and Ash. How they developed their bond. Their heart-to-heart conversation. This was missing in the first half of Unbound, and thankfully, I did finally get that once the narrative reached the second half of the novel. It goes without saying I ended up enjoying the remaining half of Unbound much more than the first half. If you are here, I assume you have seen the beautiful cover art illustrated by Randy Vargas, with Holt blindfolded riding Ash. Reading the scene in Unbound where Holt used a bandana to cover his sight was so good, and the gradual understanding they built for one another is done with heart.
However, the strength of Unbound doesn't lie solely in Holt and Ash. Another main reason for my enjoyment is a new integral POV character Miller added: Osric Tagravain. In Ascendant, most of the narrative is told from the perspective of Holt. Miller decided to use three POV characters in Unbound, and I believe the addition of Osric’s POV chapters is necessary for the series. Here is the thing. It is pretty easy to tell who is the good and the bad guys in Songs of Chaos series. There is nothing wrong with that. Admittedly, I prefer more complexity and more morally grey characters and decisions. Osric Agravain provided that dynamic. His background and predicament shaped him into such an intriguing character, and in my honest opinion, he is the most complex POV character in the series so far. More than Holt and Ash, even if I loved reading about them more. But how could I resist reading a morally grey character who has to determine whether his harsh actions are fully controlled? The blacksmithing and forging of Vengeance and Spite in Osric's chapters were well-written and well-researched. And the development he has with Sovereign and a specific shadow dragon was incredibly implemented for different reasons.
“The Elders seem above everyone and everything, but they’re just living, breathing beings like you and me. And I’ve found that all beings – whether dragon or human – find it impossible to get out of their own way. They have a set of beliefs about the world, about the people or dragons in it, about how things are and how they should be, and anything that counters those beliefs, whether it’s true or whether for good, doesn’t matter – they will resist it with every fiber of their being. Even to their own detriment. To change would be worse. To surrender one’s beliefs is to surrender much more.”
With all these praises said you might wonder what it is about Unbound that decreased my reading enjoyment. Well, I am sad to say this... Talia's chapters in Unbound did not work with me. At all. For the majority of Unbound, the human politicking storyline in her chapters felt too long and almost unrelated to Holt and Osric's conflict. The politics of the world strained the pacing, especially in the first half of Unbound. Additionally, the supporting and side characters introduced in Talia's chapters never felt engaging enough for me to read. Definitely not when compared to Rake and the other characters in Holt and Osric's POV chapters. As I write this review, I remember no one from Talia's POV chapters except Talia herself and her dragon, Pyra. They were not memorable enough. I found Talia and Pyra's scenes worked better when they were together with Holt and Ash in the same scene. That's why the found family trope worked so well in Ascendant, but in Unbound, they were barely together in the same scene. I certainly liked the end result of Talia and Pyra's story in Unbound; it's just a shame the execution to get there sadly did not click with me. Not as much as I wanted to.
“You have to surrender your entire self in that case. You must start from scratch and rebuild yourself and how you view the world. That’s so hard to do. To voluntarily reduce oneself to ashes and then rise again. It’s because of that most choose to stand in the flames and burn.”
The journey of Holt and Ash is far from over. We are not even halfway through the five-book series yet. The intense focus on the progression fantasy training montage in the first half and Talia’s storyline did make me enjoy Unbound slightly less than Ascendant. But there is no doubt Unbound is still a great book. It felt like a crucial installment and foothold the series needed for the rest of Songs of Chaos to sing louder. If it had followed the same structure and progression Ascendant had, I do not think the series could last five books in total. Based on where the story ended for Holt and Ash, Osric and the Shadow Dragon, and Talia and Pyra, Defiant has all the potential to become the strongest installment in the series so far. And to find out the continuation of these character's journey, I look forward to reading Defiant soon.
You can order this book from: Amazon | Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Aliysa, Ambrosius, Andrew, Andrew W, Annabeth, Arliss, Barbara, Biskit, Brad, Cade, Chris, Christopher, Cullen, Dan, David, Dernerror, Donuts, Dylan, Edward, Elaine, Elias, Ellen, Francesca, Frank, Garrick, Gary, Gregory, Hamad, Helen, Jenn, Jesse, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Jonathan, Jordan, Kristina, Lara, Lourdes, Luis, Melinda, Michael, Michael, Mike, Miracle, Mordie, Nicholas, Norbert, Radiah, RCT, Redmischief, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawn, Tiffany, Tori, Tracy, Trish, TS, Wendy, Wick, Woodman, Xero, Yuri, Zoe.
March 23, 2022
As with Ascendant, I feel I pushed myself in Unbound and after a year of hard work, blood, sweat and tears I am very happy with how it ended up. For those who loved Ascendant, I sincerely hope this lives up to your expectations.
Now the really hard thing will be to keep that up in book 3 - wish me luck!
Now the really hard thing will be to keep that up in book 3 - wish me luck!
April 3, 2024
4.5 stars.
I really enjoyed the story here. I'm enjoying the development of the characters where we're starting to see some new things with Holt and Ash—there are some interesting story lines opening up there.
I enjoyed the side characters as well and what I also liked is that I read Last Stand of the Stone Fist immediately beforehand, which is a novella set some time before Unbound. It features one of the characters from Ascendant and in here we see the tendrils of that story, so I think that was a nice accompaniment that enhanced my enjoyment of Unbound.
This was a very enjoyable audiobook, as well—I'm enjoying the narration of the series overall and can see it being one of the highlights of my reading year.
I really enjoyed the story here. I'm enjoying the development of the characters where we're starting to see some new things with Holt and Ash—there are some interesting story lines opening up there.
I enjoyed the side characters as well and what I also liked is that I read Last Stand of the Stone Fist immediately beforehand, which is a novella set some time before Unbound. It features one of the characters from Ascendant and in here we see the tendrils of that story, so I think that was a nice accompaniment that enhanced my enjoyment of Unbound.
This was a very enjoyable audiobook, as well—I'm enjoying the narration of the series overall and can see it being one of the highlights of my reading year.
September 7, 2025
It always feels so satisfying when I enjoy a self-published book. Reading Ascendant, book 1 of Songs of Chaos, gave me that feeling. Initially it felt like classic, nostalgic, warm fantasy. Then, whilst maintaining the classical warm core and avoiding the modern nihilism, nuance was introduced and the story evolved into a more and more unique story.
Book 2 follows that trajectory. Unbound makes a bold choice to expand its point-of-view characters. But, it was a choice in my opinion vital for the series. This is epic fantasy, and the additional PoV's allow for a sprawling, grand feel and also a fresh injection of more interesting characters, without providing an overwhelming cast. The characters we already know continue to evolve, and the new central figures not only provide a wider scope, but allow for set-pieces and climaxes to hit a whole new level. That is because Miller knows how to write! He manipulated the advantages of multi-PoV to enhance the story and proved once again he can move the reader.
I loved the extra world-building. The fact that I am yearning for answers speaks volumes. I need to find out more about the world, its history, the way dragons work in this setting and more. And I need to see where this story takes the characters next. It provides such a satisfying conclusion, but also has set hooks deep within me, guaranteeing that I pick up book 3 soon! I'm not sure how I will cope when I have caught up with the series and have to wait for the next instalment....
4.25/5 STARS
Book 2 follows that trajectory. Unbound makes a bold choice to expand its point-of-view characters. But, it was a choice in my opinion vital for the series. This is epic fantasy, and the additional PoV's allow for a sprawling, grand feel and also a fresh injection of more interesting characters, without providing an overwhelming cast. The characters we already know continue to evolve, and the new central figures not only provide a wider scope, but allow for set-pieces and climaxes to hit a whole new level. That is because Miller knows how to write! He manipulated the advantages of multi-PoV to enhance the story and proved once again he can move the reader.
I loved the extra world-building. The fact that I am yearning for answers speaks volumes. I need to find out more about the world, its history, the way dragons work in this setting and more. And I need to see where this story takes the characters next. It provides such a satisfying conclusion, but also has set hooks deep within me, guaranteeing that I pick up book 3 soon! I'm not sure how I will cope when I have caught up with the series and have to wait for the next instalment....
4.25/5 STARS
January 24, 2023
Spoiler-Free Unbound Book Review
I loved being back in this world! Being with Ash and Holt again felt like coming home after a long holiday. I settled down, got into my pyjamas, got down by the fire and soaked in all the feel-good emotions of being home.
Raising the Stakes
The stakes were higher in Unbound than they were in book 2, Ascendent. Yes, this is kind of the point with progressive fantasy, but the raised stakes also made for many more, tense, darker moments.
Rather than being a stagnant sequel, Unbound is a step forwards with world building, character development and the stakes being raised. I expect bigger, exciting things from future entries in this series.
Brilliant Characters
Holt and Ash's relationship shone through the darker, tense atmosphere of this sequel. They are two of my favourite characters in fantasy right now and I can’t wait to see more of them in the future.
In this book, we follow Talia as more of a main point of view, following from the events of Ascendant. This is essentially a political intrigue plot and I loved every moment of it
Finally, Osric's storyline is so fascinating, and his character is complex, struggling with an impossible and demoralising situation
Final Thoughts
As with Ascendant, Unbound wears its influences on its sleeve, but this second book in the series shows its originality a little more with the plot development and magic system
Blog | Patreon | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
I loved being back in this world! Being with Ash and Holt again felt like coming home after a long holiday. I settled down, got into my pyjamas, got down by the fire and soaked in all the feel-good emotions of being home.
Raising the Stakes
The stakes were higher in Unbound than they were in book 2, Ascendent. Yes, this is kind of the point with progressive fantasy, but the raised stakes also made for many more, tense, darker moments.
Rather than being a stagnant sequel, Unbound is a step forwards with world building, character development and the stakes being raised. I expect bigger, exciting things from future entries in this series.
Brilliant Characters
Holt and Ash's relationship shone through the darker, tense atmosphere of this sequel. They are two of my favourite characters in fantasy right now and I can’t wait to see more of them in the future.
In this book, we follow Talia as more of a main point of view, following from the events of Ascendant. This is essentially a political intrigue plot and I loved every moment of it
Finally, Osric's storyline is so fascinating, and his character is complex, struggling with an impossible and demoralising situation
Final Thoughts
As with Ascendant, Unbound wears its influences on its sleeve, but this second book in the series shows its originality a little more with the plot development and magic system
Blog | Patreon | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
July 5, 2023
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Lovebookstours.
Unbound is the second instalment in Michael R. Millers 'Songs of Chaos' series and follows straight on from book one.
Holt and Ash have set forth on a dangerous mission after putting together a rag-tag group of misfits. Meanwhile, Talia is battling to find a balance between being both a Queen and a Dragon Rider. Osric is struggling with choices he has made and seems to be becoming more of an accomplice within the Sovereigns' compulsion. I can't quite make my mind up with this character as to which side they're truly on. Much of this chunky book is divided into multiple POV, which definitely worked for this instalment since most of the time, the characters were separated. As always, my favourite parts were dragon infused, and this fantasy world is one I'd live to explore even more!
Unbound is the second instalment in Michael R. Millers 'Songs of Chaos' series and follows straight on from book one.
Holt and Ash have set forth on a dangerous mission after putting together a rag-tag group of misfits. Meanwhile, Talia is battling to find a balance between being both a Queen and a Dragon Rider. Osric is struggling with choices he has made and seems to be becoming more of an accomplice within the Sovereigns' compulsion. I can't quite make my mind up with this character as to which side they're truly on. Much of this chunky book is divided into multiple POV, which definitely worked for this instalment since most of the time, the characters were separated. As always, my favourite parts were dragon infused, and this fantasy world is one I'd live to explore even more!
May 19, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4
Thank you to the the author for sending me a physical arc in exchange for a review!
Holt Cook was never meant to be a dragon rider. He was born a Cook and is destined to serve the Riders above him. Then he unveils a dark secret: the dragons do not tolerate weakness. Filled with defiant pity, Holt rescues a doomed egg containing a blind dragon from the Order.
Hastened by the Scourge - undead hordes that roam the land leaving destruction and the blight - and dragon riders being slaughtered with betrayal lurking in the shadows, Holt must hone his rider bond and skills.
Following the epic end of book 1, Holt and Ash now are outcasts, attempting the impossible to unite the Elder Dragons.
Meanwhile, Talia faces a world suspicious and hostile to a rider queen and her warnings about the greater danger of Sovereign go unheeded as foreign powers threaten war and bloodshed.
All the while, Sovereign regains his strength with his cultists as more and more disillusioned riders flock to his cause.
This series has one of the most unique magic systems where there is a clear cost of magic use and the bond between dragon and rider. There are new abilities, almost like upgrades, as new ranks and levels are achieved, creating a constant progression in our characters.
I liked that we got chapters from Osric’s perspective, providing a lot more insight into the ‘villain’ perspective, and what his true situation is like. Like the other characters in the book, readers are left unsure to whether they should be feeling pity or rage at Osric as we learn more about his past and personality.
I found some of Holt chapters slightly boring as the author focuses on his development to ‘level up’ as it were. Those into progression fantasy may enjoy this aspect more. Thankfully, Rake returned which an element of surprise with his unorthodox past, friends, and strategies, yet again, his focus was on Holt powering up in order to aid him in defeating Sovereign.
I loved Talia’s role as she struggles with balancing her life as a rider she struggles with giving up in order to take on the role of queen. The political manoeuvrings and alliances were great to read amidst the other action-packed chapters.
"What good is order if it's so rigid we cannot move, so tight we cannot breathe? I'd break my oath a thousand times over if it meant defeating the scourge. How many of you would do the same?"
Overall, a compelling sequel to a severely underrated series!
”You have to surrender your entire self in that case. You must start from scratch and rebuild yourself and how you view the world. That's so hard to do. To voluntarily reduce oneself to ashes and then rise again. It’s so hard that most chose to stand in the flames and burn."
I would recommend this to fans of Eragon!
Bookstagram
Thank you to the the author for sending me a physical arc in exchange for a review!
Holt Cook was never meant to be a dragon rider. He was born a Cook and is destined to serve the Riders above him. Then he unveils a dark secret: the dragons do not tolerate weakness. Filled with defiant pity, Holt rescues a doomed egg containing a blind dragon from the Order.
Hastened by the Scourge - undead hordes that roam the land leaving destruction and the blight - and dragon riders being slaughtered with betrayal lurking in the shadows, Holt must hone his rider bond and skills.
Following the epic end of book 1, Holt and Ash now are outcasts, attempting the impossible to unite the Elder Dragons.
Meanwhile, Talia faces a world suspicious and hostile to a rider queen and her warnings about the greater danger of Sovereign go unheeded as foreign powers threaten war and bloodshed.
All the while, Sovereign regains his strength with his cultists as more and more disillusioned riders flock to his cause.
This series has one of the most unique magic systems where there is a clear cost of magic use and the bond between dragon and rider. There are new abilities, almost like upgrades, as new ranks and levels are achieved, creating a constant progression in our characters.
I liked that we got chapters from Osric’s perspective, providing a lot more insight into the ‘villain’ perspective, and what his true situation is like. Like the other characters in the book, readers are left unsure to whether they should be feeling pity or rage at Osric as we learn more about his past and personality.
I found some of Holt chapters slightly boring as the author focuses on his development to ‘level up’ as it were. Those into progression fantasy may enjoy this aspect more. Thankfully, Rake returned which an element of surprise with his unorthodox past, friends, and strategies, yet again, his focus was on Holt powering up in order to aid him in defeating Sovereign.
I loved Talia’s role as she struggles with balancing her life as a rider she struggles with giving up in order to take on the role of queen. The political manoeuvrings and alliances were great to read amidst the other action-packed chapters.
"What good is order if it's so rigid we cannot move, so tight we cannot breathe? I'd break my oath a thousand times over if it meant defeating the scourge. How many of you would do the same?"
Overall, a compelling sequel to a severely underrated series!
”You have to surrender your entire self in that case. You must start from scratch and rebuild yourself and how you view the world. That's so hard to do. To voluntarily reduce oneself to ashes and then rise again. It’s so hard that most chose to stand in the flames and burn."
I would recommend this to fans of Eragon!
Bookstagram
October 3, 2023
4.5/5 stars
Unbound is the second book in Michael R. Miller’s dragon fantasy series Songs of Chaos. Holt Cook and his dragon Ash may have saved a kingdom, but sent on a quest on their own, they realize they aren’t equipped to handle the day to day aspects of a quest just yet. But when they again encounter dragon/man hybrid Rake, he recruits them on a daring mission to stop the Sovereign before he can return to full power after his defeat in book 1. Meanwhile, Talia has to deal with kingdoms (rivals and even her own) who will not accept a rider queen when all she wants is to focus on the scourge problem. On the opposite side, betrayer Osric is tasked by the Sovereign to steal rejected eggs in the hopes of hatching a dragon with new magic like Ash.
Unbound is very different from Ascendant in that it has gone from a primarily single POV narrative to a multi-POV story because the main characters are separated through much of the book.
As a lover of the hero’s journey, Holt’s storyline was still my favorite, and this was helped along by the found family aspect of the band of misfits he and Ash gathers with Rake to accomplish their desperate mission. The progression/cultivation magic system also shown through most here as Holt and Ash attempt to “level up” their power level from Ascendant to Champion in an intense action-filled underground sequence as well as in the epic final confrontation in the last 20% that showcased all he has learned about his magic.
Talia’s storyline is very political. She seeks to find balance as both queen and dragon rider while fighting both human adversaries and the ever-rising scourge plague. With her, we get the political maneuverings and intrigue interspersed by some gory action.
Osric’s storyline is the one I had most conflicting feelings about. As he struggles with his own choices and Sovereign’s compulsion, it is becoming more apparent that he may not be as unwilling or reluctant of player as he thinks himself to be. In this, I am just not sure if I find him a sympathetic tragic figure or a deluded accomplice. I think I know which direction the story is leading me, but I am just not quite there yet.
Unbound builds on everything Ascendant has established and promises of more great things to come.
Unbound is the second book in Michael R. Miller’s dragon fantasy series Songs of Chaos. Holt Cook and his dragon Ash may have saved a kingdom, but sent on a quest on their own, they realize they aren’t equipped to handle the day to day aspects of a quest just yet. But when they again encounter dragon/man hybrid Rake, he recruits them on a daring mission to stop the Sovereign before he can return to full power after his defeat in book 1. Meanwhile, Talia has to deal with kingdoms (rivals and even her own) who will not accept a rider queen when all she wants is to focus on the scourge problem. On the opposite side, betrayer Osric is tasked by the Sovereign to steal rejected eggs in the hopes of hatching a dragon with new magic like Ash.
Unbound is very different from Ascendant in that it has gone from a primarily single POV narrative to a multi-POV story because the main characters are separated through much of the book.
As a lover of the hero’s journey, Holt’s storyline was still my favorite, and this was helped along by the found family aspect of the band of misfits he and Ash gathers with Rake to accomplish their desperate mission. The progression/cultivation magic system also shown through most here as Holt and Ash attempt to “level up” their power level from Ascendant to Champion in an intense action-filled underground sequence as well as in the epic final confrontation in the last 20% that showcased all he has learned about his magic.
Talia’s storyline is very political. She seeks to find balance as both queen and dragon rider while fighting both human adversaries and the ever-rising scourge plague. With her, we get the political maneuverings and intrigue interspersed by some gory action.
Osric’s storyline is the one I had most conflicting feelings about. As he struggles with his own choices and Sovereign’s compulsion, it is becoming more apparent that he may not be as unwilling or reluctant of player as he thinks himself to be. In this, I am just not sure if I find him a sympathetic tragic figure or a deluded accomplice. I think I know which direction the story is leading me, but I am just not quite there yet.
Unbound builds on everything Ascendant has established and promises of more great things to come.
October 26, 2021
The story continues from book one with the characters we have come to love and hate on new paths.
Holt and Ash set out on a dangerous mission, Talia must adapt to a new role in her kingdom that looks to be a real struggle. Osric, Rake, we see so many sides and inner struggles of these characters.
The characters are compelling, the world is cinematic in scope, and the dragons are the best of all.
This is a classic fantasy story, that the whole family can read. Good vs. evil with very little gray. Not my usual preference for fantasy, as I lean toward the grimdark. I tried to rate accordingly for those who enjoy reading classic fantasy, and what may be appealing to a young reader, which would be between a 4 and 5.
Holt and Ash set out on a dangerous mission, Talia must adapt to a new role in her kingdom that looks to be a real struggle. Osric, Rake, we see so many sides and inner struggles of these characters.
The characters are compelling, the world is cinematic in scope, and the dragons are the best of all.
This is a classic fantasy story, that the whole family can read. Good vs. evil with very little gray. Not my usual preference for fantasy, as I lean toward the grimdark. I tried to rate accordingly for those who enjoy reading classic fantasy, and what may be appealing to a young reader, which would be between a 4 and 5.
June 14, 2023
5.0 stars—-
I enjoyed this one even more than the first book, the world and magic system became more complicated, awesome characters were introduced and followed more closely. The reader learns the bigger stakes at hand in the world as the characters’ sense of despair and loss at fighting an uphill battle takes its toll.
Miller’s dragons are not one-dimensional and I enjoy the more frequent action scenes that also seem a little more fluid than in book 1, Ascendant.
I highly recommend this series, book 3, Defiant, comes out July 2023.
I enjoyed this one even more than the first book, the world and magic system became more complicated, awesome characters were introduced and followed more closely. The reader learns the bigger stakes at hand in the world as the characters’ sense of despair and loss at fighting an uphill battle takes its toll.
Miller’s dragons are not one-dimensional and I enjoy the more frequent action scenes that also seem a little more fluid than in book 1, Ascendant.
I highly recommend this series, book 3, Defiant, comes out July 2023.
January 9, 2024
I picked up the audio of this one, as I enjoyed the first in this format and was keen to continue with the story of Ash and Holt. I do think that, now having read this one, I prefered the first book, as it felt as though more was going on. This book feels a little bit like it didn't quite keep the momentum going, and although lots of valid and exciting moments do come up, it felt a bit too long and drawn out for my liking. With that said, I still enjoyed this one overall and think that the final battle and scenes which come after were touching and hold the promise of more...
The storyline once more follows our two main characters, but we're also following Ossrick and Talia as they each have their own missions and plights. Holt and Ash remain my favourite of the characters in this book as their bond is pushed and grows with the trials they have to go through. I do think that their story was the most interesting in terms of overall plot progression and action, but I did feel as through it didn't have as many touching moments between the two of them.
I believe in book 1 I actually liked Talia more. We saw more of her in the group in book 1 and she was a little more free to be herself, whilst in book 2 she has a lot more responsibility to contend with. Her story also progresses the battle against the Scourge and the desire to rule well and be a rider. She has a lot of harder choices to make in this story, and I enjoyed seeing her step up to it, but I did feel as through she spent a while getting back into everything and taking advice from those who didn't know her so well. I would have liked her to be a little more dominant earlier, but I do think she grew into that.
Ossrick's story in this book goes from cruel and oppressed to downright tragic and heartbreaking. He clearly has little fight left in him, but there are tiny slivers of hope and moments he sees a chance. Although he's in a very precarious situation mentally he is tough, and he uses his resilience at last when he has the chance, which I really liked to see. I also found some of the most touching moments were from his plotline.
The action in this book is largely around fighting and killing the Scourge and trying to take down the leader Thrall. It feels pretty heavy at times and there are some scenes which last a while with battles. Personally long fighting scenes aren't my favourite thing, but I do think some of the descriptions of the fight in this book were engaging even when the scores of Scourge coming made them feel long.
The end draws closer with the close of the book, and I am intrigued to continue the series and see what fate has in store for all of the characters. It does feel as though we have some high stakes and some new alliances at the end, and I look forward to finding out what comes next... 3*s
The storyline once more follows our two main characters, but we're also following Ossrick and Talia as they each have their own missions and plights. Holt and Ash remain my favourite of the characters in this book as their bond is pushed and grows with the trials they have to go through. I do think that their story was the most interesting in terms of overall plot progression and action, but I did feel as through it didn't have as many touching moments between the two of them.
I believe in book 1 I actually liked Talia more. We saw more of her in the group in book 1 and she was a little more free to be herself, whilst in book 2 she has a lot more responsibility to contend with. Her story also progresses the battle against the Scourge and the desire to rule well and be a rider. She has a lot of harder choices to make in this story, and I enjoyed seeing her step up to it, but I did feel as through she spent a while getting back into everything and taking advice from those who didn't know her so well. I would have liked her to be a little more dominant earlier, but I do think she grew into that.
Ossrick's story in this book goes from cruel and oppressed to downright tragic and heartbreaking. He clearly has little fight left in him, but there are tiny slivers of hope and moments he sees a chance. Although he's in a very precarious situation mentally he is tough, and he uses his resilience at last when he has the chance, which I really liked to see. I also found some of the most touching moments were from his plotline.
The action in this book is largely around fighting and killing the Scourge and trying to take down the leader Thrall. It feels pretty heavy at times and there are some scenes which last a while with battles. Personally long fighting scenes aren't my favourite thing, but I do think some of the descriptions of the fight in this book were engaging even when the scores of Scourge coming made them feel long.
The end draws closer with the close of the book, and I am intrigued to continue the series and see what fate has in store for all of the characters. It does feel as though we have some high stakes and some new alliances at the end, and I look forward to finding out what comes next... 3*s
June 3, 2023
The second installment of this superb dragon rider series exceeds the first (in my own estimation and my almost 13-yo son’s. I’ve just ordered this for my library, where I have several students already on the waitlist for it and I have zero doubt they will love this book as much or more than the first, too.)
I thought the first book was well written with great characters and an interesting, page-turning plot, but I also thought it was derivative of “Eragon.” Not a bad thing if one is a fan of Eragon, which I am.
However, this book is something new, something i haven’t read before. Everything is more complicated and nuanced; the villains are richly drawn and complex; the heroes struggle with impossible questions of right and wrong; issues of class, gender, and sexuality are explored (characters are from many cultures but racism is not part of this world); and the plot is intricate. And the dragons!! There are so many of them and they are as complicated and rich as the human characters.
What I love most about this series- and it’s a long list of things I love- is that in this series, it is the dragons who are different from their tribes, who would have been traditionally discarded and who are scorned from both humans and dragons, that force society to change because the power they have is most needed. That, and themes of empathy and inclusiveness are always at the forefront.
Highly recommended for secondary school libraries and any dragon loving reader.
I thought the first book was well written with great characters and an interesting, page-turning plot, but I also thought it was derivative of “Eragon.” Not a bad thing if one is a fan of Eragon, which I am.
However, this book is something new, something i haven’t read before. Everything is more complicated and nuanced; the villains are richly drawn and complex; the heroes struggle with impossible questions of right and wrong; issues of class, gender, and sexuality are explored (characters are from many cultures but racism is not part of this world); and the plot is intricate. And the dragons!! There are so many of them and they are as complicated and rich as the human characters.
What I love most about this series- and it’s a long list of things I love- is that in this series, it is the dragons who are different from their tribes, who would have been traditionally discarded and who are scorned from both humans and dragons, that force society to change because the power they have is most needed. That, and themes of empathy and inclusiveness are always at the forefront.
Highly recommended for secondary school libraries and any dragon loving reader.
February 25, 2024
Brode is dead, Holt exiled and Talia a reluctant queen. So the team of the first book isn't anymore but the friendship is still there and Holt's and Talia's fate are still entwined. So it's only logical that we get more than one stories in this book. While Talia struggles to change her mindset from being a dragon rider with a low status to that of a queen, Holt and Ash follow their quest to find the dragon elders. There is also a story line following Osric, Talia's uncle and the murderer of her father, and at first I wondered why. Admitted, with that addition we also get insight of what happens on the side of the Sovereign, the dragon who somehow controls the scourge, without getting too much information about the bigger picture, nevertheless I always looked forward to the next Holt/Ash chapter but then Osric somehow grew on me. What can I say, I just like to watch bad guys struggling with their fate, like to guess what makes them tick or ponder the question of a redemption arc and if they might deserve it and then there is the theft of all those dragon eggs and their potential of new magic types. Of course I would have preferred for Holt and Ash to save at least one of those eggs and adopt a hatchling but that wouldn't do, seeing they become part of a ragtag team lead by Rake with the goal to deal with Sovereign once and for, so they had to become stronger real fast.
Took me a while to get from 'Nice, like to know how it ends' to 'Need to know more about the world and being exited about the single adventures'. Might be because it's still a book that can be read also by young adults and the issues the characters have to face, while still perilous are not overly complex and except for Osric you always know who the good or bad guys are. I also missed a bit of romance at least for a support character and I keep my fingers crossed that the one possible gay character is not only a 'token gay' to add a sprinkle of diversity.
However, I'm still a fan of the world building. Even if the characters wouldn't be so compelling and worth suffering with, that world has enough mystery and magic to continue reading.
Took me a while to get from 'Nice, like to know how it ends' to 'Need to know more about the world and being exited about the single adventures'. Might be because it's still a book that can be read also by young adults and the issues the characters have to face, while still perilous are not overly complex and except for Osric you always know who the good or bad guys are. I also missed a bit of romance at least for a support character and I keep my fingers crossed that the one possible gay character is not only a 'token gay' to add a sprinkle of diversity.
However, I'm still a fan of the world building. Even if the characters wouldn't be so compelling and worth suffering with, that world has enough mystery and magic to continue reading.
November 27, 2023
I’m happy to be proven right, a perfect second installment in this series built up from the first book. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and give my final review of the overall series ❤️
Thank you, 💋
Thank you, 💋
August 30, 2024
Unbound by Michael R. Miller is the second book in a classic style fantasy series, which easily drew me in!
I absolutely love Holt and Ash, and was very happy to see their bond grow and stretch and become even more than it was.
I also enjoyed seeing the other main characters from different perspectives, and delve ever deeper into their thoughts. Be it a princess who's all of a sudden bound up in all the responsibilities, who has to adapt to her new life, or a villain who might have quite some humanity left on him after all. Or not? This made the whole story quite unpredictable, and I was surprised quite a few times along the way.
This book is quite a bit slower than book one, with less action, and instead more politics, world building and character development, but I liked it no less for that. In my eyes it's quite a good middle book, giving more meat to the overall world, and setting up ever more problems and mysteries to solve in the next one.
I would definitely highly recommend it to everyone who enjoys an epic fantasy that feels like one of the classics, but has a way more modern and quick style!
I absolutely love Holt and Ash, and was very happy to see their bond grow and stretch and become even more than it was.
I also enjoyed seeing the other main characters from different perspectives, and delve ever deeper into their thoughts. Be it a princess who's all of a sudden bound up in all the responsibilities, who has to adapt to her new life, or a villain who might have quite some humanity left on him after all. Or not? This made the whole story quite unpredictable, and I was surprised quite a few times along the way.
This book is quite a bit slower than book one, with less action, and instead more politics, world building and character development, but I liked it no less for that. In my eyes it's quite a good middle book, giving more meat to the overall world, and setting up ever more problems and mysteries to solve in the next one.
I would definitely highly recommend it to everyone who enjoys an epic fantasy that feels like one of the classics, but has a way more modern and quick style!
July 1, 2023
This was such an amazing book. I didn’t think I would fall in love with these characters even more from the first book, but clearly I have. The way that they had to go through challenges and that they developed throughout the book was so interesting. With this alongside the plot/storylines of the book it made it so that I didn’t want to put the book down. The book was written spectacularly as Michael writing is so gripping. With the twists and turns that have happened in this book and the way that the story has ended I can’t wait for Defiant to come out as I want to know what’s going to happen next as soon as possible. To be able to see how the character develop further and how the story is going to develop. Furthermore to be able to see what challenges they are going to face in the next one. Thank you Michael for writing a fantastic sequel to the Songs of Chaos series.
June 6, 2023
2023 re-read - so so good. I can't wait for July 13th when Defiant comes out.
2022 - This is going to be hard to top. Easily my top series this year. I also want to re-read it soon.
2022 - This is going to be hard to top. Easily my top series this year. I also want to re-read it soon.
July 15, 2025
I thought all elements of this book were pretty good...except for one: the book takes too long to tell the story.
I really enjoyed Talia's story of becoming the "Red Queen". Her difficulty in balancing ruling and being a rider was entertaining and her dilemma's to solve as Queen were really intriguing. I loved the very light political discussions and sequences.
I also did enjoy Holt and Ash's dynamic in this book. I felt their story in particular took the longest to get really interesting, and I felt the majority of the fat needing to be trimmed in the book comes from them. But they had some really cool sequences, particularly in the latter portion of the book. And Rake became such a fascinating character.
The character I was not expecting to love reading was Osric. I really enjoyed his story at the beginning, but loved it at the end. I would have to delve into spoilers to say why, but oh man I loved the last 100 pages with his character.
Overall, I do really enjoy the story and think that Michael R. Miller's ideas are really well done. I just think that he could across the board cut so much of the book and made it much more lean. Overall, 7 out of 10!
I really enjoyed Talia's story of becoming the "Red Queen". Her difficulty in balancing ruling and being a rider was entertaining and her dilemma's to solve as Queen were really intriguing. I loved the very light political discussions and sequences.
I also did enjoy Holt and Ash's dynamic in this book. I felt their story in particular took the longest to get really interesting, and I felt the majority of the fat needing to be trimmed in the book comes from them. But they had some really cool sequences, particularly in the latter portion of the book. And Rake became such a fascinating character.
The character I was not expecting to love reading was Osric. I really enjoyed his story at the beginning, but loved it at the end. I would have to delve into spoilers to say why, but oh man I loved the last 100 pages with his character.
Overall, I do really enjoy the story and think that Michael R. Miller's ideas are really well done. I just think that he could across the board cut so much of the book and made it much more lean. Overall, 7 out of 10!
July 1, 2023
Ooh this sequel absolutely BLEW ME AWAY
"Our true strength lies not in staving off suffering, but in how we deal with it when it comes"
After pushing back the scourge and winning the battle of Sidastra, Holt and Ash are banished, determined rogues by the order, but with a new quest from the Life Elders, they're determined to travel the realm, building up their allies to defeat The Sovereign and his scourge once and for all. Talia, now queen of Sidastra, is battling with her desires to continue being a rider as well as queen, and the expectations of focusing solely on ruling with a firm and fair hand. On top of this, she has to juggle to mounting unrest throughout the realm, trying to keep the peace across the Kingdoms, and maintaining her bond with Pyra, and with a further quest being bequeathed to them by the Life Elders, things soon becoming overwhelming and suffocating for Talia.
Ash and Holt are back! On their most dangerous and perilous quest yet, with the fate of the realm hanging in the balance. Tasked with approaching the other dragon elders, and convincing them to join forces and defeat the scourge and The Sovereign who controls them. I loved seeing Holt and Ash's bond and magic grow and flourish, as Holt tries to hone and enhance their connection, it was so intriguing and interesting. Holt and Ash are once again embraced into a group of misfits. Rake (I'm so glad he's back)half-dragon, half-human, confident, sarcastic, cheeky and an unmatched warrior, hellbent on seeking vengeance and eliminating the threat whilst also taking up the mantle of helping to mentor Ash and Holt. He's an enigma, an an absolute chaotic whirlwind but the BEST whirlwind. Aberanth, a tiny emerald dragon who has a predisposition for creating elixirs, and tinkering with potions, he's sweet and reserved who has an intense thirst for knowledge. Then there's Eidolan an elderly mystic dragon, proficient in illusions, banished from his mystic wild flight for caring about humans, after the pain of losing his own rider and tasked with keeping charge over the newly hatched dragon eggs. He begrudgingly joins the group of misfits. All of them are underestimated and treated as beneath other dragons and members of society, for things they cannot control. They were so empowering to read, I loved the way they never let their weaknesses or disabilities bring them down, but rather wholeheartedly embraced them, as part of who they are, proving their worth and often beating those seen as 'stronger' or 'purer' than them. It was beautiful and so incredibly powerful to witness.
Talia, as newly crowned Queen of Feorlen is struggling to come to terms with her new role, and battling with what she wants and what is expected of her and best for the realm. It's difficult for her to just abandon her rider mentality, wanting to fight, and make a difference, whilst trying to keep the peace and placate the other kingdoms who are not exactly accepting or embracing of her new reign. I definitely enjoyed seeing her being her bad-ass self, showing her confidence and strength a thousand times over, even if she's somewhat impulsive and reckless at times. She's determined to make her mark, refusing to sit around and let others fight the battle for her, she just seems to get stronger and more formidable as the series progresses and I adore her.
It was really intriguing to see Osric's perspective as well, it added further depth and context to him as a character, and his inner turmoil after being begrudgingly bonded with the imposing dragon Sovereign. Treated as nothing more than a slave by the fierce dragon, he lives a life of torment never given respect or warmth, unless it's to prevent him fighting back and refusing Sovereigns every demand. Osric is an interesting and complicated character, he's felt the pain of every loss, every person close to him he's had to lose or betray, bending to the will of Sovereign. He just wants peace and to break free from the mental chains inflicted upon him. Yet there's a part of him that desires power and to finally be seen and revered as a ruthless, cunning and diplomatic warrior longs for the battles he's ordered to fight, to quench that undying thirst deep within him.
This story is just as immersive, vivid and picturesque as the first instalment, but with the characters on their own separate journeys, and their own quests it feels even more compelling and adventurous. It's full of imaginative and beguiling lore and magic, dark and gritty battles that'll have you on edge. It's a refreshing and yet comforting and wholesome tale. Beautifully written, and completely transporting with strong characters that feel tangible and realistic, whilst also being fantastical, with high stakes and quests to keep you absolutely entranced from the first page, and will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
"Our true strength lies not in staving off suffering, but in how we deal with it when it comes"
After pushing back the scourge and winning the battle of Sidastra, Holt and Ash are banished, determined rogues by the order, but with a new quest from the Life Elders, they're determined to travel the realm, building up their allies to defeat The Sovereign and his scourge once and for all. Talia, now queen of Sidastra, is battling with her desires to continue being a rider as well as queen, and the expectations of focusing solely on ruling with a firm and fair hand. On top of this, she has to juggle to mounting unrest throughout the realm, trying to keep the peace across the Kingdoms, and maintaining her bond with Pyra, and with a further quest being bequeathed to them by the Life Elders, things soon becoming overwhelming and suffocating for Talia.
Ash and Holt are back! On their most dangerous and perilous quest yet, with the fate of the realm hanging in the balance. Tasked with approaching the other dragon elders, and convincing them to join forces and defeat the scourge and The Sovereign who controls them. I loved seeing Holt and Ash's bond and magic grow and flourish, as Holt tries to hone and enhance their connection, it was so intriguing and interesting. Holt and Ash are once again embraced into a group of misfits. Rake (I'm so glad he's back)half-dragon, half-human, confident, sarcastic, cheeky and an unmatched warrior, hellbent on seeking vengeance and eliminating the threat whilst also taking up the mantle of helping to mentor Ash and Holt. He's an enigma, an an absolute chaotic whirlwind but the BEST whirlwind. Aberanth, a tiny emerald dragon who has a predisposition for creating elixirs, and tinkering with potions, he's sweet and reserved who has an intense thirst for knowledge. Then there's Eidolan an elderly mystic dragon, proficient in illusions, banished from his mystic wild flight for caring about humans, after the pain of losing his own rider and tasked with keeping charge over the newly hatched dragon eggs. He begrudgingly joins the group of misfits. All of them are underestimated and treated as beneath other dragons and members of society, for things they cannot control. They were so empowering to read, I loved the way they never let their weaknesses or disabilities bring them down, but rather wholeheartedly embraced them, as part of who they are, proving their worth and often beating those seen as 'stronger' or 'purer' than them. It was beautiful and so incredibly powerful to witness.
Talia, as newly crowned Queen of Feorlen is struggling to come to terms with her new role, and battling with what she wants and what is expected of her and best for the realm. It's difficult for her to just abandon her rider mentality, wanting to fight, and make a difference, whilst trying to keep the peace and placate the other kingdoms who are not exactly accepting or embracing of her new reign. I definitely enjoyed seeing her being her bad-ass self, showing her confidence and strength a thousand times over, even if she's somewhat impulsive and reckless at times. She's determined to make her mark, refusing to sit around and let others fight the battle for her, she just seems to get stronger and more formidable as the series progresses and I adore her.
It was really intriguing to see Osric's perspective as well, it added further depth and context to him as a character, and his inner turmoil after being begrudgingly bonded with the imposing dragon Sovereign. Treated as nothing more than a slave by the fierce dragon, he lives a life of torment never given respect or warmth, unless it's to prevent him fighting back and refusing Sovereigns every demand. Osric is an interesting and complicated character, he's felt the pain of every loss, every person close to him he's had to lose or betray, bending to the will of Sovereign. He just wants peace and to break free from the mental chains inflicted upon him. Yet there's a part of him that desires power and to finally be seen and revered as a ruthless, cunning and diplomatic warrior longs for the battles he's ordered to fight, to quench that undying thirst deep within him.
This story is just as immersive, vivid and picturesque as the first instalment, but with the characters on their own separate journeys, and their own quests it feels even more compelling and adventurous. It's full of imaginative and beguiling lore and magic, dark and gritty battles that'll have you on edge. It's a refreshing and yet comforting and wholesome tale. Beautifully written, and completely transporting with strong characters that feel tangible and realistic, whilst also being fantastical, with high stakes and quests to keep you absolutely entranced from the first page, and will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
August 11, 2025
I love this series so much Ash and Holt are my life
May 21, 2022
"Unbound" is less impressive than the first book in the series. I feel like this could have been helped by some tighter editing. The pacing is all over the place. Nothing really happens until page 100. The narrative cycles between brief action scenes, politics, paragraphs of exposition, and training montages. The found family feeling from the first book is gone. That was intentional. But I spent most of this book surrounded by characters I knew nothing about and had no reason to care about.
This book is fine, but any motivation I had to finish the trilogy is gone.
This book is fine, but any motivation I had to finish the trilogy is gone.
July 7, 2023
This is Book Two in "Songs of Chaos" and I had the pleasure of reviewing Book One "Ascendant-A Dragon Rider Fantasy'. I read this book over a couple of days, as it was one of the longer books I've read. Unbound continues the story that started in Ascendant. We meet some new characters, as well as seeing how other characters have grown. Holt and Ash's bond has grew and is stronger, which was nice to see, these two are my favourite characters. I liked how we heard more from Talia on the political side in this book. There is so much happening that I don't want to spoil it for you, all I will say is I can't wait for the next book. Michael Miller is a great author and knows how to pull you into a story and leaves you wanting more.
July 4, 2023
Unbound is the thrilling second book in the Songs of Chaos Series. Picking up where the first one left off, Holt and Ash have embarked on their mission to find the Eldlers as Talia and Pyra are sent on a perilous mission of their own. I really enjoyed seeing how the characters have grown and come into their own in this book. Holt’s bond with Ash has grown even stronger and he is discovering how to use and control is own powers. I loves the way the bonds between the dragons and humans was so strong, as if they were one. The book is action packed, has lots of battle action and quests; everything an epic fantasy book should have! I have become a huge fan this author and his books. I can’t wait for the next instalment on the series.
July 24, 2024
4.5 my fav characters had one too many close calls with death 😭
July 30, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders
"You must start from scratch and rebuild yourself and how you view the world. That's so hard to do. To voluntarily reduce oneself to ashes and then rise again. It's so hard that most choose to stand in the flames and burn."
The Songs of Chaos series began as a fun, heartwarming story that drew me into its world in a beautiful way. Unbound takes that small world and expands upon it, adding layers of political intrigue, additional POVs, character depth, and of course: more dragons!
Holt and Ash have been sent into the world to meet with and attempt to recruit the other Elder dragons in their fight against Sovereign. Talia is attempting to establish herself as Queen of Feorlen while dealing with the consequences of maintaining her bond with her dragon, Pyra. One of the highlights of this book for me is the addition of Osric’s POV. Even within Unbound, Osric has an amazing character arc as we learn more about his background, his motivations for his actions during Ascendant, and his hatred for his Master. His creation of Spite and Vengeance was epic and emotional. The burgeoning bond he begins to develop with his shadow dragon has a timid rawness that made me excited to see where their relationship moves in the future. For me, Osric’s chapters stood out as highlights in an otherwise fantastic book.
Unbound firmly cements the Songs of Chaos series as a progression fantasy. This is my first progression fantasy series and I’m really enjoying watching each of the dragon rider pairs develop and grow as they progress along their path together.
Rake continues to be a great replacement mentor once Brode was killed. We are beginning to delve deeper into his heartbreaking backstory and how that will play into Holt and Ash’s overall development has me intrigued.
Unbound accomplishes exactly what it needed to elevate Songs of Chaos to an epic, dragon rider fantasy that is a must read for all fans of dragons. It cut away the baby fat of Ascendant (which I loved, don’t get me wrong), leaving us with a lean, hard chunk of dragon jerky which is powering this series to Paragon status and beyond. It’s bigger and better; I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us.
"You must start from scratch and rebuild yourself and how you view the world. That's so hard to do. To voluntarily reduce oneself to ashes and then rise again. It's so hard that most choose to stand in the flames and burn."
The Songs of Chaos series began as a fun, heartwarming story that drew me into its world in a beautiful way. Unbound takes that small world and expands upon it, adding layers of political intrigue, additional POVs, character depth, and of course: more dragons!
Holt and Ash have been sent into the world to meet with and attempt to recruit the other Elder dragons in their fight against Sovereign. Talia is attempting to establish herself as Queen of Feorlen while dealing with the consequences of maintaining her bond with her dragon, Pyra. One of the highlights of this book for me is the addition of Osric’s POV. Even within Unbound, Osric has an amazing character arc as we learn more about his background, his motivations for his actions during Ascendant, and his hatred for his Master. His creation of Spite and Vengeance was epic and emotional. The burgeoning bond he begins to develop with his shadow dragon has a timid rawness that made me excited to see where their relationship moves in the future. For me, Osric’s chapters stood out as highlights in an otherwise fantastic book.
Unbound firmly cements the Songs of Chaos series as a progression fantasy. This is my first progression fantasy series and I’m really enjoying watching each of the dragon rider pairs develop and grow as they progress along their path together.
Rake continues to be a great replacement mentor once Brode was killed. We are beginning to delve deeper into his heartbreaking backstory and how that will play into Holt and Ash’s overall development has me intrigued.
Unbound accomplishes exactly what it needed to elevate Songs of Chaos to an epic, dragon rider fantasy that is a must read for all fans of dragons. It cut away the baby fat of Ascendant (which I loved, don’t get me wrong), leaving us with a lean, hard chunk of dragon jerky which is powering this series to Paragon status and beyond. It’s bigger and better; I can’t wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us.
September 7, 2025
Oh my goodness! This truly is an epic read! In every sense of the word! It picks up well from the previous book and sets you on a fabulous journey of intense drama. Some of the characters stand out more than others, at least to me. I found Rake evoked such sympathy in me, his unorthodox thinking, his abrupt manner, all behind a wall of pain. When he reveals his secret, I sat back with a sigh. Ash and Holt are my definite favourites, I loved how tangible their bond and link is, how they have an amazing sense of right, even though they are both so young, they are able to discern what's right. Even when tasked by an Elder to find the other Elders, they embrace their task wholeheartedly. I loved how the story was told from various perspectives, it gave insight into their thoughts. Especially Osric, a classic baddy, yet his thoughts show a different side to him. Talia and Pyra have there own challenges, thrust into a position she didn't want, Talia struggles to find the balance. She is a wonderful strong character. I enjoy reading all things dragon, and this was no exception! Such mastery in the telling of this tale, such brilliant twists and though at times I did despair for our heroes, I was swept into a wondrous world of conflict, strife, epic battles, all tempered by love and righteousness. A masterpiece!
October 10, 2021
Rating 4.0 stars
Not as good as the first book. This story was told from 3 points of view. Holt's, Talia's and Osric. The reason I didn't like it as much is that Holt's was the only story I wanted to read. I tend to put myself in the characters position and it was much easier to do that with Holt. I understood and agreed with most of his decisions. The same couldn't be said about Talia or Osric. Holt and Ash were banished from the kingdom even though he is probably the best weapon against the scourge. Talia broke her oath and was made Queen. Every problem she had in this book was because of her choices. She couldn't fly and train with her dragon because of her queenly duties. Almost every nation is against her now because she is queen and she can't do the one job that is most important, fight the scourge because she has to deal with all this other BS. Then there is Osric. Forced to do evil things but it turns out he might not be as forced as he thought. A soldier who never backs down and does his duty, except in the one way that really matters - fighting his dragons control. The first half of the book was a little slow but it really picked up in the second half.
Not as good as the first book. This story was told from 3 points of view. Holt's, Talia's and Osric. The reason I didn't like it as much is that Holt's was the only story I wanted to read. I tend to put myself in the characters position and it was much easier to do that with Holt. I understood and agreed with most of his decisions. The same couldn't be said about Talia or Osric. Holt and Ash were banished from the kingdom even though he is probably the best weapon against the scourge. Talia broke her oath and was made Queen. Every problem she had in this book was because of her choices. She couldn't fly and train with her dragon because of her queenly duties. Almost every nation is against her now because she is queen and she can't do the one job that is most important, fight the scourge because she has to deal with all this other BS. Then there is Osric. Forced to do evil things but it turns out he might not be as forced as he thought. A soldier who never backs down and does his duty, except in the one way that really matters - fighting his dragons control. The first half of the book was a little slow but it really picked up in the second half.
October 6, 2021
I am a big fan of progression Fantasy. I am also a big fan of epic fantasy. This gem of a series is both. It is the perfect combination of courageous heroes, terrible bad guys, and homey delicious cooking. It also spreads the message that sometimes our perceived weaknesses can be out biggest strengths. I love Holt and Ash. I love Rake and the little shadow baby...All I have to say is that this series caught me off guard in the best way and I can hardly wait for more!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 438 reviews