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Titan's Nest Saga #1
Titan's Nest
One boy trains to join the Bitten Knights. Another boy trains to kill them. Their paths, and their blades, are destined to collide. No one in the north was surprised when Maximus Duskfell found his hand between the fangs of a dragon hatchling. Maximus proved to be fearless, unyielding, and physically gifted- the ideal Bitten Knight. Maximus' younger brother, however, is the opposite in nearly every way. But, when a freak accident on his way to the capital, Titan's Nest, prevents Maximus from fulfilling his calling, Darren is forced to secretly inherit his brother's dragon, identity, and destiny. Darren may not have the skill, muscle, or even the support of his brother's dragon to help him survive the training, but he may just have the wit and the will. Clear on the other side of the world, a mysterious cult has been quietly rising to power. Darren's own friend, Ryker, has found himself entangled in their ranks. Their purpose? Butcher the Bitten Knights. This story is told in first-person from the perspective of two friends, both unknowingly being trained to kill the other. The reader is forced to choose for themselves which character they believe is on the 'correct side' of the conflict as both parties inch closer and closer to an inevitable war. Titan's Nest wields a plot driven by strained relationships, unpredictable twists, heart wrenching decisions, and a vibrant magical world.
535 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
February 24, 2024
Not only do I have a paperback, but the author offered me an audible code to check out the audiobook! I just wish I had listened sooner.
This is a dragon rider novel that features an underdog, found family, academy-like training, and uneven odds. The characters are fleshed out and the world feels real. I particularly liked that the novel does not tell you which side is the “correct” one to root for.
The dragons imbue their riders with fury, giving them enhanced strength, speed, and dragon scale-like skin. I enjoyed the slight dragonrider twist in that each dragon gives their rider a unique gifted power. Whether it’s lightning, water, fire, or air, the elemental powers felt like The Last Airbender on dragons. The dragons can grow large to riding size at will by their riders imbuing them back with their own pool of fury. It is a 50/50 relationship.
The world could use some additional building, especially because they take up a big portion being trained. But it is only because I am interested that it could use more. I didn’t really find it lacking, just interesting.
I cannot fathom why more of my SFF friends have not picked this book up yet. I know what side I’m choosing. I wonder if you’ll agree.
Personally a 5/5*. Cannot wait for a book 2.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-titans...
This is a dragon rider novel that features an underdog, found family, academy-like training, and uneven odds. The characters are fleshed out and the world feels real. I particularly liked that the novel does not tell you which side is the “correct” one to root for.
The dragons imbue their riders with fury, giving them enhanced strength, speed, and dragon scale-like skin. I enjoyed the slight dragonrider twist in that each dragon gives their rider a unique gifted power. Whether it’s lightning, water, fire, or air, the elemental powers felt like The Last Airbender on dragons. The dragons can grow large to riding size at will by their riders imbuing them back with their own pool of fury. It is a 50/50 relationship.
The world could use some additional building, especially because they take up a big portion being trained. But it is only because I am interested that it could use more. I didn’t really find it lacking, just interesting.
I cannot fathom why more of my SFF friends have not picked this book up yet. I know what side I’m choosing. I wonder if you’ll agree.
Personally a 5/5*. Cannot wait for a book 2.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-titans...
May 22, 2026
4.25/5 ⭐️
Titan’s Nest is a great take on a chosen (unchosen) dragon rider warriors fantasy. While there are similarities to a lot of epic fantasies, this had such an addicting pace and overall I kept repeating it was so “cute”. I don’t mean this in a cozy way. It has great comedic relief and for most of the novel reads quite YA and safe for preteens and teenagers.
I can see this being the book that addicts kids into reading. Their Harry Potter or Hunger Games.
It does take about 200 pages before we see “the point” and truly understand where we’re getting to but I didn’t personally find it a downside.
I loved the different characters and all of their interactions. The relationships. The connections to their home villages and cities. The descriptions and diversity. And of course, I loved the personalities of the dragons as most people will. I appreciated the POV change where we got to know the other Wards and a tid bit of what they excel in during training as well.
The variety of species and their lore behind any hostility was so well done. They were described well and thorough in history. The world building is one of the larger reasons I think this would be perfect for an introduction to epic fantasy for adults or kids. (No closed door or any spice scenes whatsoever).
I can’t wait for book 2
Titan’s Nest is a great take on a chosen (unchosen) dragon rider warriors fantasy. While there are similarities to a lot of epic fantasies, this had such an addicting pace and overall I kept repeating it was so “cute”. I don’t mean this in a cozy way. It has great comedic relief and for most of the novel reads quite YA and safe for preteens and teenagers.
I can see this being the book that addicts kids into reading. Their Harry Potter or Hunger Games.
It does take about 200 pages before we see “the point” and truly understand where we’re getting to but I didn’t personally find it a downside.
I loved the different characters and all of their interactions. The relationships. The connections to their home villages and cities. The descriptions and diversity. And of course, I loved the personalities of the dragons as most people will. I appreciated the POV change where we got to know the other Wards and a tid bit of what they excel in during training as well.
The variety of species and their lore behind any hostility was so well done. They were described well and thorough in history. The world building is one of the larger reasons I think this would be perfect for an introduction to epic fantasy for adults or kids. (No closed door or any spice scenes whatsoever).
I can’t wait for book 2
February 6, 2026
This was an absolutely stunning debut, it has everything you could want in a fantasy, unique magic, cool dragons, political intrigue, training arcs and a main character who's humor and outlook was one that I could instantly connect with and care about. go buy this, absolutely a stunner of a book and amazing on audio 🔥 4.5(rounded to 5 here)
April 29, 2026
This was...fine. It was actually kind of cute, and I liked the way that Darren became the unchosen one who was forced to step up. It was a nice change of pace from the typical chosen one or even the reluctant chosen one. I appreciate this change. I also appreciate how Darren went to each "classmate" to learn how they had success in the areas they were the best at. It was a cute series of POV shifts from each of the classmates.
Other than that though, this didn't work for me. To begin with, I don't appreciate relying on spousal abuse for the bad-dad stereotype without dissecting the emotional impact of watching your mom be abused. I also don't like how the abuse was handled. You mean to tell me Max is a bulky, strong young man who boasts about his physical prowess and he waits until he is bitten by a dragon (which isn't likely) before he even tries to help his mom? I dunno, seems weird and more like a way to cause a bad childhood at the expense of a female character.
Anyway, I also didn't like most of the dialogue or the pacing of the book. The pacing didn't allow for plot, worldbuilding, or character depth to be built, and instead it felt like a lot of these things were brushed over to just move the book forward. It was VERY YA. Even when Darren and Tenebros have a long needed moment, it felt like an easy way for the author to FINALLY move the plot. And it was such an easy moment to have that could have happened way earlier so I don't know if it was the wait or how easily it happened.
Ryker's storyline I thought would be cooler, but we as readers weren't given much of a reason to be on the side of this rebellion or not. And even while Ryker was allegedly conflicted, all I really saw was safety. He didn't want people to die in either direction, but it lacked the political reasoning I was expecting.
Bottom line, interesting ideas, not the best execution.
Other than that though, this didn't work for me. To begin with, I don't appreciate relying on spousal abuse for the bad-dad stereotype without dissecting the emotional impact of watching your mom be abused. I also don't like how the abuse was handled. You mean to tell me Max is a bulky, strong young man who boasts about his physical prowess and he waits until he is bitten by a dragon (which isn't likely) before he even tries to help his mom? I dunno, seems weird and more like a way to cause a bad childhood at the expense of a female character.
Anyway, I also didn't like most of the dialogue or the pacing of the book. The pacing didn't allow for plot, worldbuilding, or character depth to be built, and instead it felt like a lot of these things were brushed over to just move the book forward. It was VERY YA. Even when Darren and Tenebros have a long needed moment, it felt like an easy way for the author to FINALLY move the plot. And it was such an easy moment to have that could have happened way earlier so I don't know if it was the wait or how easily it happened.
Ryker's storyline I thought would be cooler, but we as readers weren't given much of a reason to be on the side of this rebellion or not. And even while Ryker was allegedly conflicted, all I really saw was safety. He didn't want people to die in either direction, but it lacked the political reasoning I was expecting.
Bottom line, interesting ideas, not the best execution.
December 30, 2025
A fun dragon rider adventure with a piece-of-work dragon haha
Narrative Voice: 1st person (dual)
Cussing/profanity: 1/5
Drug/alcohol use: 1/5
Kissing: 0/5
Sex/nudity: 0/5
Violence/gore: 2/5
I’m a sucker for dragon rider books, and once I saw the new, gorgeous cover art, I had to read it!
I’m also a sucker for “sorting” in this case, each kingdom has their own elemental aptitude, from fire and water to plant life and shadow, and of course, a corresponding color palette which makes visualizing so pretty.
There was a plot twist early on that I was totally not expecting, which was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the parallel stories on both sides of the conflict.
Speaking of parallels, I love how the two POVs are opposites. Their last names, color palettes, and fury. It’s never addressed [yet?], so it’s like a genius Easter egg, and I love things like that!
With plenty of dragons, dragon training, battles, and of course, elemental magic aka fury, this is a fun dragon-riding story done right!
Can’t wait for the sequel!
4/5 would recommend
*7 damn, 2 dammit, 3 bastard
Narrative Voice: 1st person (dual)
Cussing/profanity: 1/5
Drug/alcohol use: 1/5
Kissing: 0/5
Sex/nudity: 0/5
Violence/gore: 2/5
I’m a sucker for dragon rider books, and once I saw the new, gorgeous cover art, I had to read it!
I’m also a sucker for “sorting” in this case, each kingdom has their own elemental aptitude, from fire and water to plant life and shadow, and of course, a corresponding color palette which makes visualizing so pretty.
There was a plot twist early on that I was totally not expecting, which was fantastic, and I really enjoyed the parallel stories on both sides of the conflict.
Speaking of parallels, I love how the two POVs are opposites. Their last names, color palettes, and fury. It’s never addressed [yet?], so it’s like a genius Easter egg, and I love things like that!
With plenty of dragons, dragon training, battles, and of course, elemental magic aka fury, this is a fun dragon-riding story done right!
Can’t wait for the sequel!
4/5 would recommend
*7 damn, 2 dammit, 3 bastard
March 6, 2022
I absolutely loved the world building in this book! If you're someone who enjoys a high fantasy story with well though out structure this is the book for you. The lore in the book adds to the complexity of the world the author has created, allowing me to imagine this colorful world while I read it.
The crew of characters is so fun and diverse! There is someone for everyone to connect with. I'm excited to see each storyline build over the course of the next couple of books.
Its a must read for lovers of Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter!
The crew of characters is so fun and diverse! There is someone for everyone to connect with. I'm excited to see each storyline build over the course of the next couple of books.
Its a must read for lovers of Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and Harry Potter!
April 19, 2022
This has become one of my favorite YA books i have ever read. Titan’s Nest has a similar feel to many of my favorite stories of an unimpressive character meeting great heights through determination, yet has so many twists and turns that you can’t really put your finger on exactly what’s going on nor what’s about to happen. Definitely leaves you on the edge of your seat and is a big time page turner.
February 28, 2025
4.75✨
Darren and Tenebros are my new favorite duo! I loved the dry humor and unique world of this story. It felt like the perfect blend of classic fantasy and new ideas. There were moments that had me laughing and moments that had me emphatically saying “no, no, no!” Such a good book! And I can’t wait for book 2!
Darren and Tenebros are my new favorite duo! I loved the dry humor and unique world of this story. It felt like the perfect blend of classic fantasy and new ideas. There were moments that had me laughing and moments that had me emphatically saying “no, no, no!” Such a good book! And I can’t wait for book 2!
December 27, 2025
T.D. Orel takes the best parts of Dragon fantasy and adds his own flare, making it so much more than rehashed tropes. A brilliant world filled with unique magic, dragon bonds, and lurking secrets. Orel writes Brotherhood with such heart, making you love these characters instantly.
April 2, 2026
This book is absolutely amazing! I cannot believe this is his debut novel. I LOVED this and cannot wait for book 2. Super original and engaging. I want more!!!
May 2, 2026
This was so much fun. I loved every bit of this. From the relationships between the characters and their interactions with their dragons. Everyone is so different and it shows in their powers and mannerisms. I love how we all went into this as odd rivals and came out as a formed group of allies.
The dragons were my favorite part, to no one’s surprise. T.D did such an amazing job bringing these dragons to life and making every one of them unique. I found myself enjoying every new POV I got just so I could see the interactions between the dragons and their bonded. Tenebros, you’re such a stink but I’m very fond of him. Vyphagous was my personal favorite though, Hyperion would be a close second. Their designs are simply stunning to imagine.
The lore of this world is so interesting to me. The religious beliefs of the Verdourin and the lore of the Bitten Knights both. It really isn’t like any other dragon book I’ve ever read and I will immediately be tuning in to book two.
The dragons were my favorite part, to no one’s surprise. T.D did such an amazing job bringing these dragons to life and making every one of them unique. I found myself enjoying every new POV I got just so I could see the interactions between the dragons and their bonded. Tenebros, you’re such a stink but I’m very fond of him. Vyphagous was my personal favorite though, Hyperion would be a close second. Their designs are simply stunning to imagine.
The lore of this world is so interesting to me. The religious beliefs of the Verdourin and the lore of the Bitten Knights both. It really isn’t like any other dragon book I’ve ever read and I will immediately be tuning in to book two.
September 1, 2024
A new series by one of my favorite authors!! Loved this adventure! Captivating action and moving characters. If you haven’t read a T.D. Orel yet, pick up one of his books!
Can’t wait for the rest of this series!!!!
**reread**
Just listened to the audiobook version of this on audible. Once again, such a fun adventure and the audio was a great way to really experience all the different characters.
Can’t wait for the rest of this series!!!!
**reread**
Just listened to the audiobook version of this on audible. Once again, such a fun adventure and the audio was a great way to really experience all the different characters.
February 22, 2025
This deserves so much more hype than it has gotten. This is such a fun twist on my beloved boy-and-his-dragon trope; the twist being that the dragon does not very much care for his boy, and in fact would rather not be near this boy at all if it could be helped. If you were an Eragon kid and a LOTR kid (or even a Rangers Apprentice kid, although there are fewer of those) pick this up because I think you'll have a great time! It's a refreshing addition to the Dragon-fantasy realm and I can't wait for more. I just loved the dragons & the magic system was so interesting. The characters were all pretty interesting as well, although I wish some of the side characters were explored a bit more. With most multi-POV stories I tend to have a favorite but I really loved every character POV we got, and I can't wait to read more from all of them. I read this as an E-book and I will be getting myself a physical copy for my shelves becuase oh boy does it deserve to be on my dragon shelf with all my other dragon books.
Yes there are some issues, mainly in the first half where I kind of felt like it took a good while for the plot to really get going. But honestly this is nothing that I wouldn't expect from any debut novel, and nothing that would deter me from reading more in the future. I'm so excited for whatever T.D Orel writes next.
Yes there are some issues, mainly in the first half where I kind of felt like it took a good while for the plot to really get going. But honestly this is nothing that I wouldn't expect from any debut novel, and nothing that would deter me from reading more in the future. I'm so excited for whatever T.D Orel writes next.
July 16, 2025
I'll admit the start was a little slow, but Darren grew on me. He has a tenacity that is admirable. His brother was kinda a pain, never did care about him.
Had some How to Train your Dragon vibes and I supported that. Some unique spins on the dragon rider trope. A little predictable, but it honestly worked in this setting. Still trying to figure Roark out. Is he bad? Why seek revenge? Curious to see where 2nd book will take the crew.
Really my one quibble was the editing. Lots of odd hyphens and spacing issues. Heard he is re-releasing the book with better editing. So hopefully he got a little help.
Would recommend if looking for a lighter YA fantasy.
Had some How to Train your Dragon vibes and I supported that. Some unique spins on the dragon rider trope. A little predictable, but it honestly worked in this setting. Still trying to figure Roark out. Is he bad? Why seek revenge? Curious to see where 2nd book will take the crew.
Really my one quibble was the editing. Lots of odd hyphens and spacing issues. Heard he is re-releasing the book with better editing. So hopefully he got a little help.
Would recommend if looking for a lighter YA fantasy.
October 11, 2023
Titans Nest by @titansnestseries
First off... I need book 2 now. That ending was cruel and mean and I just need to carry on reading.
This is such an incredible book for people who LOVE dragon stories (Fourth Wing lovers, hit this up) but also it was such an easy and enjoyable read that I devoured it super quick. There was never a time in the book where I felt confused as to who the people were, what the plot was or what was happening. It was perfectly written so that people who love fantasy and people who are new to fantasy could both read with ease.
I also love that we see alot of sister/twin stories, but I love that this one is about brothers. It's not something I've read alot of and I loved the difference having two male characters!
The cast of characters were brilliant and lovable but also HUGE. There are so many brilliant and unique characters within the story.
Gerrard makes me think of a big burly man (a bit like hagrid) with pockets full of creatures from all over the continent.
He's one of my absolute favorites! Behind Tenebros of course. But I also loved seeing Rykers POV.
The world was lush and the descriptions were so good you could imagine yourself there with ease. Nerium was my favorite place so far. It's home to the royal guard, a guard made up of hummingbirds with riders hidden amongst a thick green forest thriving with life.
I loved the whole overall plot and think that Darren is a character really grew from where he started on his journey and I felt like through the book, I went along his journey with him.
I will 100% be autobuying ANYTHING Tanner writes from now on because he is truly talented and brilliant.
If you haven't picked this up yet, don't put it on a TBR list... Bump it to the top and pick it up now
First off... I need book 2 now. That ending was cruel and mean and I just need to carry on reading.
This is such an incredible book for people who LOVE dragon stories (Fourth Wing lovers, hit this up) but also it was such an easy and enjoyable read that I devoured it super quick. There was never a time in the book where I felt confused as to who the people were, what the plot was or what was happening. It was perfectly written so that people who love fantasy and people who are new to fantasy could both read with ease.
I also love that we see alot of sister/twin stories, but I love that this one is about brothers. It's not something I've read alot of and I loved the difference having two male characters!
The cast of characters were brilliant and lovable but also HUGE. There are so many brilliant and unique characters within the story.
Gerrard makes me think of a big burly man (a bit like hagrid) with pockets full of creatures from all over the continent.
He's one of my absolute favorites! Behind Tenebros of course. But I also loved seeing Rykers POV.
The world was lush and the descriptions were so good you could imagine yourself there with ease. Nerium was my favorite place so far. It's home to the royal guard, a guard made up of hummingbirds with riders hidden amongst a thick green forest thriving with life.
I loved the whole overall plot and think that Darren is a character really grew from where he started on his journey and I felt like through the book, I went along his journey with him.
I will 100% be autobuying ANYTHING Tanner writes from now on because he is truly talented and brilliant.
If you haven't picked this up yet, don't put it on a TBR list... Bump it to the top and pick it up now
March 10, 2026
I rate this 3.5.
In Titan’s Nest by T. D. Orel, dragon eggs fall from the sky once a century, and those chosen by the hatchlings become Bitten Knights, bonded with dragons and granted elemental powers. The story follows Maximus Duskfell, his brother Darren, and their friend Ryker as they navigate dangerous challenges, powerful enemies, and a world where dragons, elemental abilities, and deadly warriors collide.
The book balances the unfolding plot with the characters’ experiences and different POVs. I really enjoyed the unique magic system involving dragons and elemental abilities.
I did feel that character development was a bit rushed. I would have loved to spend more time with the characters as they faced challenges alongside their dragons, learning to use their elemental abilities together as a team in greater depth.
Overall, Titan’s Nest was a fun fantasy read. If you enjoy a fantasy with dragons and an unfolding story, this one is definitely worth reading. I can’t wait to dive into the sequel, Sigara’s Nest.
In Titan’s Nest by T. D. Orel, dragon eggs fall from the sky once a century, and those chosen by the hatchlings become Bitten Knights, bonded with dragons and granted elemental powers. The story follows Maximus Duskfell, his brother Darren, and their friend Ryker as they navigate dangerous challenges, powerful enemies, and a world where dragons, elemental abilities, and deadly warriors collide.
The book balances the unfolding plot with the characters’ experiences and different POVs. I really enjoyed the unique magic system involving dragons and elemental abilities.
I did feel that character development was a bit rushed. I would have loved to spend more time with the characters as they faced challenges alongside their dragons, learning to use their elemental abilities together as a team in greater depth.
Overall, Titan’s Nest was a fun fantasy read. If you enjoy a fantasy with dragons and an unfolding story, this one is definitely worth reading. I can’t wait to dive into the sequel, Sigara’s Nest.
April 9, 2026
the drama is crazyyyyy
January 27, 2026
Is Darren unlikable? Yes. Is Darren weak? Yes. But does Darren redeem himself by the end? Not really.
I enjoyed the world-building and the lore, there were a couple fun subversions with Darren accidentally becoming the chosen one, Maximus dying, and Ryker opposing, but the dialogue took was jarring, Darren very annoying, and the conclusion was a mess.
Still interested to read the 2nd one, though.
I enjoyed the world-building and the lore, there were a couple fun subversions with Darren accidentally becoming the chosen one, Maximus dying, and Ryker opposing, but the dialogue took was jarring, Darren very annoying, and the conclusion was a mess.
Still interested to read the 2nd one, though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2026
If you love a good fantasy, unique world building, gripping storyline, a fun cast of characters, and (need I say more) DRAGONS?! Well, what are you waiting for!?
Picked this book up from the used section of a local book store in Mammoth and I have no regrets. It’s very similar to the fourth wing and deserves all the same hype if you ask me!
Picked this book up from the used section of a local book store in Mammoth and I have no regrets. It’s very similar to the fourth wing and deserves all the same hype if you ask me!
March 21, 2025
So good! Dragons, magic, and major plot twists. Multiple povs. Clean fantasy with a tiny bit of romance. Loved the world he created. New author that deserves more hype 👏. Author is Christian and ends the book with a verse which just made me like him more 😂. Second one is supposed to come out soon according to my husband who messaged the author 🥰.
January 23, 2026
I believe this is T.D Orel's debut and what a fantastic introduction this was. It's split primarily into two POV's and what brought this from a five star to a four star is simply that I did not care quite as much about the second prominent POV. I understand it's importance, but each time I got to those chapters all I could think about is how I couldn't wait to get to the other POV.
March 19, 2025
2.75 kinda predictable. You can def tell that this is a debut YA novel.
January 6, 2026
What if we made book one Frickin Sick?
September 24, 2025
This book was on my radar for quite a while due to the dragon rider aspect. Come to find out, there was a ton of hype around this because of its take on the trope which had me even more intrigued. When I first started this book, everything seemed to go according to plan, but then we have a huge twist that throws everything on its head and it doesn’t stop there. The twists keep coming and coming all the way until the final chapter. The characters in this book are very well written and developed with compelling backgrounds and are all relatable. The overall story kept me engaged as this is multi POV. Both of these characters who we journey through this story with are very likable and I grew to feel like I knew each of them personally. And in some cases, I was each of them at some point in life. The world is rich in history and tradition and it’s epic in scale but not to a point that was confusing. The take on the dragon rider trope was fantastically different such a breath of fresh air. I was thrown for a loop it seems at every turn and it was a wonderful ride. I was just downed in the pages of this book and loved every second of it.
November 19, 2025
My Quick Takes:
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Genre 📚 Upper YA Fantasy
- Language 🤐 mild
- Spice ❤️🔥 none
- Content 🤔 violence/killing, domestic abuse, death of family member, past infidelity
This is THE move for an Upper YA Fantasy read! I am so excited to continue on in this series!
What’s not to love? A sick cover design, dragon riding, twists and turns throughout the plot, multiple points of view, weird insect inspired characters. I mean…. come on, the teens are gonna love it.
The main character gave big time Hiccup from How to Train your Dragon! I loved his self deprecating humor and his grit and determination. There’s some great character development and found family. The reader is quickly thrown into fast moving plot, and I was hooked right from the get go. There’s plenty of chapters that end on cliff hangers to keep readers wanting more.
I listened to this on audio and the narrator’s voice reminded me of Paul Sparks, it was a great narration to listen to. Very excited to have this in my list of YA fantasy books I can recommend! I personally recommend this as an upper YA read due to the mild language sprinkled throughout and themes of domestic abuse.
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Genre 📚 Upper YA Fantasy
- Language 🤐 mild
- Spice ❤️🔥 none
- Content 🤔 violence/killing, domestic abuse, death of family member, past infidelity
This is THE move for an Upper YA Fantasy read! I am so excited to continue on in this series!
What’s not to love? A sick cover design, dragon riding, twists and turns throughout the plot, multiple points of view, weird insect inspired characters. I mean…. come on, the teens are gonna love it.
The main character gave big time Hiccup from How to Train your Dragon! I loved his self deprecating humor and his grit and determination. There’s some great character development and found family. The reader is quickly thrown into fast moving plot, and I was hooked right from the get go. There’s plenty of chapters that end on cliff hangers to keep readers wanting more.
I listened to this on audio and the narrator’s voice reminded me of Paul Sparks, it was a great narration to listen to. Very excited to have this in my list of YA fantasy books I can recommend! I personally recommend this as an upper YA read due to the mild language sprinkled throughout and themes of domestic abuse.
May 23, 2026
It felt like How to Train Your Dragon (movies) meets Big Hero 6 meets Pokémon/Digimon.
The first ~11 chapters were a bit of a struggle, but that’s more on the industry than the author. Debut authors don’t have the luxury of starting a book slow. Once we hit the inciting incident, it was hard to put this one down!
The positives:
A really incredible magic system that made a dragon rider book feel original.
The development & pacing of Darren’s character was wonderfully frustrating.
The twist at the end. It made complete sense and I never saw it coming, which makes it a perfect twist!
The other five bitten wards were all unique & enjoyable. I loved being one each of their heads for a chapter.
The negatives:
Ryker’s chapters did not have me nearly as invested. His story felt off with pacing & muddled character voices. A little more time would have done that arc some good, but I wouldn’t want to lose any Darren chapters for it.
The book was riddled with typos and grammatical/tense issues.
This book was just a few more rounds of editing away from possibly being a five star read.
Verdict:
Overall, I loved Darren & co so much that I couldn’t wait to pick the book back up. That makes a book good to me. 3.75⭐️ easy! I’ll be starting book 2 tonight!
The first ~11 chapters were a bit of a struggle, but that’s more on the industry than the author. Debut authors don’t have the luxury of starting a book slow. Once we hit the inciting incident, it was hard to put this one down!
The positives:
A really incredible magic system that made a dragon rider book feel original.
The development & pacing of Darren’s character was wonderfully frustrating.
The twist at the end. It made complete sense and I never saw it coming, which makes it a perfect twist!
The other five bitten wards were all unique & enjoyable. I loved being one each of their heads for a chapter.
The negatives:
Ryker’s chapters did not have me nearly as invested. His story felt off with pacing & muddled character voices. A little more time would have done that arc some good, but I wouldn’t want to lose any Darren chapters for it.
The book was riddled with typos and grammatical/tense issues.
This book was just a few more rounds of editing away from possibly being a five star read.
Verdict:
Overall, I loved Darren & co so much that I couldn’t wait to pick the book back up. That makes a book good to me. 3.75⭐️ easy! I’ll be starting book 2 tonight!
May 31, 2024
This has been on my shelf for a while and I’m SO glad I finally read it. I don’t give 5 stars lightly but I think this book was truly deserving of it! The characters, pacing, plot, and WORLD BUILDING were beautifully done. I can’t wait for the next one to come out.
I’d recommend this if you enjoy (don’t ask me to explain why): ATLA, the Lightning Thief, dragons, Naruto, underdogs, crying
(I read this as a physical book/audiobook hybrid and would also like to say the audiobook is splendid if you want to read that way)
I’d recommend this if you enjoy (don’t ask me to explain why): ATLA, the Lightning Thief, dragons, Naruto, underdogs, crying
(I read this as a physical book/audiobook hybrid and would also like to say the audiobook is splendid if you want to read that way)
April 6, 2024
This is the story I’ve been looking for!!!! Perfect fantasy story, it felt nostalgic reading it. I want MORE PLEASE HELLO WHERE WHEN
I am a little bummed cause a couple pages randomly fell out of my book but obviously that has nothing to do with the story 😂
Highly recommend this book regardless, I’m a slow reader and have never read a 500+ book so quickly in my entire life.
I am a little bummed cause a couple pages randomly fell out of my book but obviously that has nothing to do with the story 😂
Highly recommend this book regardless, I’m a slow reader and have never read a 500+ book so quickly in my entire life.
May 12, 2025
This was such a fun and fresh take on the dragon rider origin story. The main character is basically a side character and it is done so well and overall just a fun and engaging read. Can't wait to see what happens next.
October 9, 2023
I am fucking obsessed with this book. Full review to come
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