Tag Archives: dragons

The Princess Knight by G.A. Aiken – Dual Review

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The Princess Knight (Scarred Earth Saga 2) by G.A. Aiken – Dual Review

 

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Description:
LONG LIVE THE QUEEN

Gemma Smythe dedicated her life to the glory of battle. With her fellow War Monks, she worshipped the war gods, rained destruction on her enemies, and raised the dead when the fancy took her. Until her sister Keeley became the prophesied Blacksmith Queen, and Gemma broke faith with her order to journey to the Amichai Mountain and fight by Keeley’s side.

The Amichai warriors are an unruly, never-to-be-tamed lot, especially their leader-in-waiting, Quinn. But when the War Monks declare support for Gemma’s ruthless younger sister Beatrix, the immaturity of her key ally is the least of Gemma’s problems. She has to get to the grand masters, dispel their grudge against her, and persuade them to fight for Keeley and justice. If her conviction can’t sway them, perhaps Quinn’s irritating, irreverent, clearly unhinged, ferocity will win the day

••••••••••••••

Barb’s Review:
The Princess Knight by G.A. Aiken is the 2nd book in her The Scarred Earth Saga series. I am a big fan of G.A. Aiken (aka Shelly Laurenston), and as I have said before, I will read anything she writes; as she is one author who I look forward with high anticipation to read her books, which are fun, exciting, enjoyable and so much laughter along the way. The Princess Knight is no different, as always it is another one of Aiken/Laurenston’s trademark of wild, crazy and wonderful characters.

In The Princess Knight, Gemma (sister to previous book heroine, Keely) is the main focus, but the storyline continues, with Queen Keely, the wonderful Centaurs (Quinn, Caid, Laila) and Princess Gemma (she is a war monk). I have to say I absolutely loved the demon wolves, who are loyal and adore Keely.  The story picks up two years after Keely became Queen of the Western Lands, and Gemma protecting her sister from the evil Beatrix (Queen of the East). Gemma being a war monk, is always ready for danger and has no qualms of killing Beatrix.  I did get a kick out of their younger sister, Ainsley, who is excellent at shooting an arrow.  I hope she gets a story in one of the future books.

Quinn, our hero, drives Gemma crazy, but though he pushes her buttons, he is always there to protect her.  We know there is a slow built relationship developing, but romance is in the background.  I did love Quinn, as he was funny, annoying and totally adorable and he was perfect for Gemma.

What follows is a non-stop action adventure filled with bloody battles, deaths, intrigue, power struggles and so much humor that has us laughing even in serious situations.  With Gemma bringing her war monks to help Keely, we get to see witches, nuns, monks, warlock, assassins and Gemma’s dead horse who is wild but still alive (though missing various parts lol).  Ragna is another crazy leader of the war monks who help fight the upcoming battles, and her interactions with Gemma and Keely are a riot.

The Princess Knight was a fun filled, exciting amazing ride, with fantastic characters that G.A. Aiken creates so well. The epilogue blew my mind, and I so look forward to the next book in this series wondering where Aiken will take us. If you enjoy Aiken/ Laurenston, you need to be reading this series. 

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Sandy’s Review: THE PRINCESS KNIGHT is the second instalment in G.A. Aiken’s the SCARRED EARTH SAGA fantasy series. This is War monk Gemma Smythe, and centaur/Amichai warrior Quinn’s story line. THE PRINCESS KNIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for back story and cohesion I recommend reading the series in order.

Told from several third person perspectives THE PRINCESS KNIGHT follows War Monk Gemma Smythe two years after her strange and emotionless sister Beatrix became Queen of the East, and her blacksmith sister Keeley ascended to the throne as the Queen of the West. Always Keeley’s protector and guardian, Gemma would go on the hunt for Cyrus, one of the Old King’s sons, who is murdering monks, ransacking and destroying religious communes in an effort to steal artifacts for their magic and power. Along with Amichai Warrior Quinn, amassing a small entourage of warriors, witches, warlocks, assassins, nuns, monks, virgins, and a zombie horse, Gemma will discover that Cyrus is not the only enemy desperate for power but her sister Beatrix is tunneling forward to a land of dragons and magic.

THE PRINCESS KNIGHT follows several intersecting paths as Gemma and Keeley set into motion a series of events that will culminate in the discovery of a number of underground tunnels wherein Gemma and Keeley’s psychopathic sister Beatrix would eventually execute her plans to usurp power from neighboring lands.

As per G.A. Aiken’s style of writing, THE PRINCESS KNIGHT is awash in sarcasm, humor and snark, seamlessly blending paranormal with fantasy in a cross-country adventure that culminates with a wonderful twisty surprise. The humorous moments are giggle worthy; the back and forth snippy yet playful banter is fast and furious; the familial dysfunction so reminiscent of the author’s Dragonkin series, it feels like coming home.

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Daughter of the Serpentine by E.E. Knight – a Review

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Daughter of the Serpentine by E.E. Knight – a Review

 

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Description:
As a young dragoneer moves through the ranks of the prestigious Serpentine Academy, her challenges grow greater and her time grows short to draw out a series of deadly threats, in this thrilling coming-of-age fantasy novel.

Sixteen-year-old Ileth is now an Apprentice Dragoneer, with all of the benefits and pitfalls that her elevation in rank entails. But her advancement becomes less certain after a she’s attacked by an unknown enemy, and Ileth begins to suspect that someone deadly may be hiding within the walls of the academy.

Outside of the walls there is a different challenge. The Rari Pirates are strangling the Vale Republic. What they lack in dragon firepower, they make up for in the brutality of their ever-expanding raids, making hostages or slaves of the Republic’s citizens. Surrounded by enemies, Ileth will need to learn what kind of dragoneer she wants to be. And as she makes decisions about her future, Ileth will have the chance to uncover the secrets of her past. Both will irrevocably change the course of her life.

 

 

Review:

Daughter of the Serpentine by E.E. Knight is the second book in his fantasy Dragoneer Academy series.  Daughter of the Serpentine picks up shortly after the last book left off, and continues to follow our heroine, Ileth’s,  journey into this magical world of dragons.  Ileth’s earned the respect of her peers in the last book, and is now an apprentice to a dragoneer, which has some pitfalls; she also continues to help with her dancing group. 

Ileth finds herself meeting new friends, as well as keeping her old ones.  When a request comes from a Lord claiming to be her father, she is forced to leave the academy and spend time with her powerful and wealthy father and his wife, which changes things for her (having grown up poor). But in time, her friend Santeel will visit, and together they work on the father to allow Ileth to return to her training to become a dragoneer.   

Ileth continues to be a wonderful heroine, who is smart, savvy, loyal and always willing to go beyond. I loved how she made friends with Aurue, a young Dragon, who befriended her.  I hope in future books, perhaps in time she will become his dragoneer.  But it was great to follow her journey, meeting new friends and dragons, as well as riding one of the dragons back home.   With a war on the horizon, Ileth will have to step up to help, proving how good she has become, even at the age of 17.

Daughter of the Serpentine was an excellent story line, with a wonderful heroine, very good secondary characters, dragons, exciting and action packed.  As I had said in my previous review, I thought there was a bit too much details that slowed down the story a bit. I did enjoy the book and look forward to finding out where EE Knight is going to take us in the next book.  If you enjoy fantasy, dragons, training, and a wonderful young heroine, I suggest you read this series.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by  Publisher

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Ancient Enemy (Ancients Rising #2) by Katie Reus-Review & Excerpt

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Ancient Enemy (Ancients Rising #2) by Katie Reus-Review & Excerpt Tour

 

 

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 15, 2020

She should be his mortal enemy.

Ancient dragon shifter Rhys awoke from his slumber hungry for revenge against the witch who killed his sister. When his hunt takes him to the rebuilding city of New Orleans, he finds a woman he can’t keep his eyes off—but she’s a witch. While Rhys wants to despise all of Dallas’s kind, even he can’t deny that she’s beautiful, kind and…adorable. And her pet baby dragon only increases his fascination with the sexy woman. Protective instincts he never knew he had take over him as they hunt powerful monsters. He’s forced to confront everything he thought he knew about witches as his life is turned upside down.

But he wants her anyway.

Dallas Kinley is used to being hated because of what she is. Witches have always been the pariahs of the supernatural community. Until now, when the world needs rebuilding. Even though she wants to keep her distance from Rhys, vampires and humans are dying in New Orleans, so she vows to help him hunt down those responsible. But finding the enemy comes at a heavy price, because Dallas is hiding a terrible secret. As they race against the clock to find the murderers, she can only hope his need for revenge won’t rip them apart. Especially when he finds out what she’s been hiding from him.

•••••••

REVIEW:ANCIENT ENEMY is the second instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult ANCIENTS RISING erotic, paranormal romance series. This is ancient dragon shifter Rhys of the Donnachaidh clan in Scotland, and witch Dallas Kinley’s story line. ANCIENTS RISING is a spin off from the author’s DARKNESS but you do not have to have read the original series to follow the current time line.

Told from several third person perspectives including Rhys and Dallas ANCIENT ENEMY follows in the aftermath of The Fall in which a group of dragons made an attempt to destroy the world but in doing so revealed the existence of the supernatural to humankind. Following a thousand years in hibernation, ancient dragon shifter awakens and goes in search of the witch who killed his sister thousands of years earlier only to discover his attraction to a woman who should be his mortal enemy. Enter powerful with Dallas Kinley, and the woman with whom Rhys will fall in love. When a number of vampires and humans go missing, Dallas and Rhys go in search of the truth only to discover the truth hits too close to home. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Dallas and Rhys, and the potential fall-out as the witch Rhys seeks continues to wreak havoc on the world of the paranormal.

The relationship between Rhy and Dallas is one of immediate attraction but Dallas has no idea that Rhys’ dragon has found his mate. Unable to stay away, Rhys becomes guardian and protector of the witch he has sworn to hate, a witch whose own past is has been marred by dark power and hate. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and supernatural secondary and supporting characters including New Orlean’s alpha wolf King, and the phoenix Aurora; wolf Darius, snow leopard Bella, lion shifter Axel, tiger Harlow, Lola, and tiger Brielle; half demon Cynara; Rhys’ brothers Lachlan (and Star) and Cody, and of course Dallas’ ‘pet’ Willow.

ANCIENT ENEMY is a story of betrayal and vengeance; power and control; family, friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is energetic and entertaining; the characters are dynamic and powerful; the romance is sexy and sweet. ANCIENT ENEMY is a wonderfully, exciting story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one ANCIENT PROTECTOR

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt intended for mature readers due to context and text.

 

 

Dallas jerked in Rhys’s arms, her eyes flying open. She’d only been asleep for three hours and he knew she needed more. It was clear in the wild, almost unfocused glaze of her beautiful gray eyes.

“Is Willow okay?” she rasped out.

His heart clenched. She was always thinking of other people, other beings. He’d never imagined a female like her in his life. “She’s fine. Currently being spoiled. It’s only been a few hours, Dallas.” The blackout curtains were firmly in place but bits of the late morning light still peeked through.

Dallas sighed and seemed to settle more against the sheets. “Good.” She nuzzled her face against his chest, wrapping her arm around him and throwing one leg over him as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

Just like that, his cock hardened. He’d already been in a semi-state of arousal on and off for the last few hours. Every time she shoved her ass up against him, or turned over and wrapped her body around his, he got hard. Then he’d have to think of shitty things so his erection would go down. It was a vicious cycle.

Now with her curled up against him, her full breasts pressing against his chest, it was definitely too much for his waning self-control.

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, fighting to steady the wild beat of his heart, and tried to think of anything but Dallas’s lush body pressed up against his.

“I wouldn’t mind that kiss right now,” she sleepily mumbled against his chest.

Oh, hell. He rolled his hips against her, leaving no doubt how aroused he was.

She leaned her head back to look up at him. She was half awake, but he saw the fire simmering in her bright eyes that had gone almost silver and he could clearly scent her desire. It was sweet and overpowering, leaving him no doubt that she wanted him as badly as he wanted her.

Without second-guessing himself, he crushed his mouth to hers, tasting, teasing, taking. Goddess, he wanted to consume her, to bring her so much pleasure that she passed out from it. His female needed rest—and an orgasm.

Moving quickly, he caged her body underneath his, glad they had an actual bed in here now as opposed to that flimsy cot.

Moaning, she stretched out underneath him, arching her unfortunately covered breasts against his chest. But he felt the beaded points of her nipples rubbing against him as he plundered her mouth. Her taste was perfection. She was perfection.

He slid his hands up the tiny shirt he’d picked out for her earlier, cupping her breasts, shuddering at the feel of them in his hands, at the fact that she wanted him to touch her at all.

She groaned into his mouth and the scent of her desire spiked in the air as he slowly teased her nipples.

He needed to see her naked, or at least more of her. And he needed skin-to-skin contact, was desperate to feel her against him. When he leaned up to tug her top off, he realized he was slightly glowing.

The mating manifestation. Dallas was…his mate.

 

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, and IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. Her book Avenger’s Heat recently won the Georgia RWA Maggie Award for Excellence in the fantasy/paranormal category.

Connect with Katie:

Facebook | Blog| Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Website

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ANCIENT PROTECTOR (Ancients Rising #1) by Katie Reus-Review Tour

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ANCIENT PROTECTOR (Ancients Rising #1) by Katie Reus-Review & Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 30 2020

Even as he fights for their future…

With the world still rebuilding after massive dragon attacks, famous singer Star isn’t willing to rely on a stranger to protect her family—though dragon shifter Lachlan is difficult to resist. Something about him is strangely familiar, but she doesn’t understand why. He’s already helped Star rescue her sister from a recent abduction, but trust doesn’t come easy when his kind has nearly hunted her race to extinction. When her sister’s kidnapper launches another violent attack, Star has no choice but to accept Lachlan’s aid. But no matter that he’s stepped up to protect her, she’ll never allow the ancient Scottish dragon into her heart.

They’re bound by the past.

Lachlan lost the woman he was meant to mate millennia ago. Unable to live in a world without her, his pain drove him to hibernation. He never thought he would move on—until Star. He’s well aware the feisty shifter is his new destiny, so if tailing her to New Orleans is what he has to do to be near her, then so be it. When Star is attacked, Lachlan resolves to protect her at all costs. And he won’t have to do it alone. It will take Lachlan, his clansmen, and Star’s misfit band of friends to rain fiery vengeance down upon their enemy if she and her sister are to ever be truly free. Only then can he claim her and discover the shocking truth that lies buried in their past.

FIRST IN NEW SERIES

•••••••••

REVIEW: ANCIENT PROTECTOR is the first instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult ANCIENTS RISING paranormal, romance series. This is ancient dragon alpha of the Donnachaidh clan in Scotland, Lachlan, and singer Star’s story line. The ANCIENTS RISING series is a spin-off from the author’s DARKNESS series but you do not have to have read the original series to follow the current time line. A few characters from the Darkness Series crossover for cohesion and familiarity.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Lachlan and Star) using present day and memories from the past, ANCIENT PROTECTOR follows the building relationship between ancient dragon alpha of the Donnachaidh clan in Scotland, Lachlan, and singer Star. Star is on a mission in England to rescue her sister Aurora who was abducted one year earlier. Performing at a concert for dragon alpha Osgar, the beast currently holding her sister in prison, Star will come face to face with another dragon alpha, Lachlan, the man who will steal her heart. Upon their return to America, Lachlan will become guardian and protector of our storyline heroine knowing Osgar is determined to take back what doesn’t belong. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Lachlan and Star, and the potential fall-out as Lachlan and Star are caught up in a battle between ancients vying for control.

Star and Aurora keep secret their true identities having never let the world know about their supernatural abilities but Star’s recurring dreams bring with them memories from a time long ago, where our heroine had fallen in love with a beast of immense powers. Lachlan lost his mate thousands of years earlier, and sent himself into Protective Hibernation in an effort to quell the grief and loss. Meeting Star gave Lachlan a hope for a second chance, a second chance at love and a happily ever after.

The relationship between Lachlan and Star is one of immediate attraction but Star struggles with the alpha’s need to protect and control. An alpha herself, Star is capable of holding her own, and in this their combined powers make for a powerful pair. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, fun and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Star’s sister Aurora; her bandmates and security staff: Axel, Harlow, Lola, Taya, Kartini and Brielle; half demon Cynara; wolf alpha King; and Lachlan’s brother Cody, and dragons Teague, and Cian. There is something developing between Aurora and King.

ANCIENT PROTECTOR is a story of second chances, fated mates, family, vengeance, power and control. The premise is intriguing and entertaining; the slow building romance is seductive; the characters are dynamic and animated. ANCIENT PROTECTOR is a great start to a new series.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“Lachlan,” she murmured, the feel of his name on her tongue familiar.

“I like it when you say my name.” His Scottish accent got just a little bit deeper, and a whole lot sexier.

She fought off a shudder as something echoed inside her. Damn it, she needed to shut this down now. “Look, tonight was pleasant—”

“Pleasant? Already giving me the brush-off, lass?”

“Not the brush-off. Lachlan—”

He groaned. “I told you I love it when you say my name. Are you just trying to drive me mad now?”

His Scottish brogue was so crazy sexy and damn did she feel that all the way to her toes. “Fine, I won’t say your name again.”

“Oh, I want you to say my name. Particularly while my head is between your legs—”

“Lachlan!” She turned to stare at him. No one ever talked to her like that. People usually kissed up to her, and on the occasion a man or male worked up the courage to ask her out, they were usually douchey frat bro types. Or mega-rich assholes who assumed she would say yes. This… She had not expected this boldness.

He shrugged his broad shoulders, looking more delicious than she could handle. “I believe in honesty.”

“I don’t care,” she spluttered. “You can’t just say stuff like that.”

“Why not? I know you want me.”

“You’re a very maddening, arrogant dragon,” she muttered. “What?” she asked when he gave her a strange look and stopped. “That can’t be the first time someone’s said that to you. I feel like you probably drive people crazy all the time with your ‘honesty.’”

“No…it’s not the first time.” Still, the look he gave her was almost guarded.

She looked away for a moment as they stood in the alley that ran behind shops and restaurants. It was quiet, though she could hear people in the distance—laughter, little strings of music coming from somewhere. But here in this moonlit alleyway, there was only the two of them. The knowledge that it was just the two of them here heated her blood.

She wanted to say his name but didn’t want him to drop another sensual statement on her. Instead she pressed her palm to his chest, intending to… She wasn’t sure what her intentions were. But the instant her fingers curled against his shirt, he let out another groan and dipped his head toward hers. He didn’t pause, didn’t wait as he brushed his lips over hers.

As if he had every right to.

She was the one who deepened the kiss, grabbing onto his shirt and tugging him closer. As she did, it felt like a dance they’d done a thousand times before, like coming home. Something inside her broke free as she sank into this teasing, the sweep of his tongue against hers.

Immediately he took over, a low rumble emanating from his chest as he hoisted her up, as if he couldn’t get close enough to her. She wrapped her legs around him as if it was the most natural thing in the world. She had the feeling he wanted to pin her to the brick wall, but instead he simply wrapped his arms around her, cupping her ass and pulling her tight to him as he delved his tongue into her mouth.

Teasing, tasting, tantalizing. Triple Ts, and the man was making her crazy.

Heat flooded between her legs as he kneaded her ass, again in a way that felt so damn familiar. She didn’t question it but grinded up against him instead, rolling her hips against him as they made out like teenagers. Even as they kissed, she hated that there were clothes in the way. Her nipples tightened against her bra cups, the friction sending another rush of heat through her. God, she couldn’t remember the last time she’d simply made out with someone and it was invigorating and—

“Holy shit,” she heard someone mutter from nearby and pulled back.

That was when she realized she was glowing. Well, her purple fire was flickering all across her body and her hair. And her skin had a soft, violet glow to it. Oh goddess, no. No, she hadn’t felt the change come on at all.

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, and IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. Her book Avenger’s Heat recently won the Georgia RWA Maggie Award for Excellence in the fantasy/paranormal category.

Connect with Katie:

Facebook | Blog| Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Website

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Flame (Dark Kings 17) by Donna Grant-Review & Excerpt

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Flame (Dark Kings 17) by Donna Grant-Review & Excerpt

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 30 2020

If she believed in destiny, she would believe they were meant for each other.
But that fire was put out long ago. . .

Living among the Dragon Kings, Cain has spent lifetimes learning to distrust both mortals and Fae. He is a warrior born—and every instinct demands that he fight to keep his own kind safe. But when a fringe member of the Dark Fae contacts the Kings with an urgent warning, Cain is torn for the first time. How can he trust this beautiful creature when resisting his primal attraction to her is battle enough?

Noreen is horrified by what her kind and the malevolent Others are planning for the Dragon Kings. Dark Fae or not, there are lines she will not cross—even if it means risking her life. But she never imagined that she would risk her heart until she meets Cain. She wants him with a soul-deep desire that frightens her…and endangers them both. Is saying goodbye to everything Noreen has ever known worth a love that will span time and realms?

••••••••••

REVIEW:FLAME by Donna Grant is the seventeenth full-length instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult DARK KINGS paranormal/fantasy romance focusing on the Dragon Kings and the women they love. This is navy Dragon Cain, and Dark Fae Noreen’s story line. FLAME should not be read as a stand alone as the current story line continues to follow the ongoing series arc.

SOME BACKGROUND: The DARK KINGS is a spinoff from Donna Grant’s DARK WARRIOR series which in turn is a spin off from Donna’s DARK SWORD series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland, including the latest spin off about the Fae executioners known as the REAPERS. The Dragon Kings have a new enemy with the recent appearance of a group known as the Others, but their true identity and membership is currently unknown. As each Dragon King falls in love and finds his mate, King Constantine is pulled further away from the woman he loves, a woman he betrayed thousands of years earlier.

Told from several third person perspectives including Noreen and Cain FLAME focuses on the search for the truth, and the identity of the group known as the Others. An anonymous email to the Dreagon, the home of the Dragon Kings, finds Navy dragon Cain volunteering to ferret out the information the sender claims to know. Enter Dark Fae Noreen, a member of the Others, and the woman with whom Cain will fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Cain and Noreen, and the potential fall-out as betrayal is inevitable when dealing with the enemy.

Navy dragon King Cain knows he has found his mate in the Dark Fae Noreen but trust doesn’t come easily for the other Kings. Having been betrayed in the past, and the obvious issue of Noreen’s identity, the Dragon Kings struggle to accept Noreen at face value including Rhi, a powerful Fae who sees more than most. While Rhi battles between head and heart, her Dragon King slowly begins to spiral out of control without the love of the woman he had chosen to destroy.

FLAME, like many of the previous storylines, recounts and chronicles the history of the Dragons, the Fae, the Druids and humankind; the betrayal leading to war between the dragons and human but also reveals the reason for the Others-their determination, their drive, their goals and their vengeance. We are introduced to their leader, their members and the powerful magic that controls the world but a magic that is slowly dissipating from other realms with prolonged and nefarious use.

FLAME is a story of betrayal, secrets, vengeance and lies. A tale of powerful magic and manipulation, broken minds and broken souls. The premise is intriguing and emotional; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are spirited, animated and impassioned.

Previous Reviews

Dark Craving
Night’s Awakening
Dawn’s Desire
Darkest Flame
Fire Rising
Burning Desire
Hot Blooded
Night’s Blaze
Soul Scorched
Dragon King
Passion Ignites
Smoldering Hunger
Smoke and Fire
Dragon Fever 9.5
Firestorm
Blaze
Dragon Burn 11.5
Constantine: A History Part 1
Heat
Constantine: A History Part 2
Constantine: A History Part 3
Torched
Dragon Night 13.5
Dragon Fire
Dragon Claimed
Ignite
Fever
Dragon Lost

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Click HERE for an excerpt of Chapter one from FLAME.

 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

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Novice Dragoneer by EE Knight – Review & Giveaway

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Novice Dragoneer by EE Knight – Review & Giveaway

 

 

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Description:
Fourteen-year-old Ileth grew up in an orphanage, and thanks to her stutter was never thought to be destined for much beyond kitchen work and cleaning. But she’s dreamed of serving with the dragons ever since a childhood meeting with a glittering silver dragon and its female dragoneer. For years she waits, and as soon as she is old enough to join, Ileth runs away to become a novice dragoneer at the ancient human-dragon fortress of the Serpentine.

While most of her fellow apprentices are from rich and influential families, Ileth must fight for her place in the world, even if it includes a duel with her boss at the fish-gutting table. She’s then sent off to the dragon-dancers after a foolish kiss with a famously named boy and given charge of a sickly old dragon with a mysterious past. But she finds those trials were nothing when she has to take the place of a dead dragoneer and care for his imprisoned dragon in enemy lands. . . .

 

 

Review:

Novice Dragoneer by E.E. Knight is the first book in his Dragoneer Academy series. We meet our young 14 year old orphaned heroine, Ileth at the start, as she travels to Serpentine to fulfill her dream of becoming a dragoneer. Years before, Ileth met an apprentice to Dragons, as well as meeting a Dragon; since then that is all she dreams about.  But when she arrives at the gate, she is turned away as being late, but she persevered for days, before the ‘charge’ gives her a chance to become a novice.

Novice Dragoneer is an intriguing story that follows Ileth’s journey into this magical world of dragons. With most of the novices and apprentices coming from wealthy families, Ileth herself is from a poor village, orphaned and stutters; but it is wonderful to watch Ileth slowly learn to talk the dragon language and help the dragons. The majority of the story revolves around Vale and the Galantine Lands, with Ileth at center stage.  In Vale (Serpentine), Ileth is sent to become a dancer with a group of females that dance for the dragons, that help keep them calm and happy.  She is then assigned to an old Dragon, who is slowly dying; Ileth will learn the language and become close to that dragon until his death.  She is then sent with another experienced apprentice to the Galantine Lands to help an imprisoned older dragon, in exchange for allowing another apprentice who was sick go home. War is possibly on the horizon and Ileth is in danger of never going home to Vale.  

Ileth was a wonderful heroine, always willing to go beyond, as well as being loyal and honor bound; she was someone we rooted for throughout.  It was great to follow her journey, whether it be in school, meeting new friends and especially working well with dragons, as well as getting to ride a dragon.   Knight created some very good secondary characters that we got to like, as well as some villians (including a dragon). 

Novice Dragoneer was an excellent story line, with a wonderful heroine, very good secondary characters, dragons, exciting and some very good action.  I will add that some parts of the book had a bit too much detail or descriptions that slowed down the story a bit.  With that being said, I did enjoy the book and look forward to finding out where EE Knight is going to take us in this series.  If you enjoy fantasy, dragons, training, and a wonderful young heroine, I suggest you read this book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

EE Knight’s publisher is  offering a paper copy of NOVICE DRAGONEER  to ONE (1) commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Darkness Rising (Darkness #9) by Katie Reus-Review & Excerpt Tour

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DARKNESS RISING (Darkness #9) by Katie Reus-Review & Excerpt Tour

DARKNESS RISING
Darkness #9
by Katie Reus
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance
Release Date: June 4, 2019

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / iBooks /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 4, 2019

When a bringer of death…

Awakened after millennia, dragon warrior Reaper is ready to fulfill his destiny…until he sees Greer. With one glimpse, everything Reaper has ever known throughout his very long life is irrevocably changed. Greer’s his mate, he feels it in his blood, in his soul—but convincing her is another matter. The dragon clan healer finds him obnoxious and annoying, but he knows a woman’s interest when he smells it. And Greer smells like one word: mine.

Meets a giver of life…

Greer has spent hundreds of years using her healing abilities for the good of others, making her the polar opposite of Reaper. The ferocious war general may be an ancient, but his arrogance proves he hasn’t spent any of that time learning about women. Greer is displeased when her Alpha sends her to New Orleans with the insufferable warrior—then she sees him in action against a menace threatening to tear the city apart. Fierce, protective, magnificent…mate-worthy. Except he’s hiding something from her. Something dark and devastating that could destroy their newly forged bond. Maybe opposites do attract, but if they want to live long enough to find out, they’ll first have to save the world teetering on the brink of obliteration.

Length: NOVEL
Author note: This is the final book in the Darkness series and can be read as a stand-alone.

••••••••••

REVIEW: DARKNESS RISING is the ninth and final instalment in Katie Reus’ contemporary, adult DARKNESS paranormal, romance series. This is dragon shifters, ancient warrior Reaper, and healer Greer. DARKNESS RISING can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary.

NOTE: Darkness Rising is the final instalment Katie Reus’ DARKNESS series but the author has plans for a spin-off.

Told from several third person perspectives including Greer and Reaper, DARKNESS RISING follows in the wake of Reaper’s rising from a millennia of sleep. Something, or someone is awakening the ancient dragons towards a prelude to war, a war that pits dragons against humans and other supernatural powers. Upon first awakening Reaper will come face to face with a female dragon shifter, a female he knows he will claim as his mate. Enter dragon shifter and healer Greer, and the woman with whom Reaper will fall in love. What ensues is the search for the power(s) responsible for destroying so many ancient dragons, and the potential fall-out as Greer is targeted in an attempt to take down our story line hero.

Reaper was known as the ‘Dragon of War’; a dragon general whose arrogance pushes our heroine’s buttons with every comment, action and need to protect. No longer requiring a clan of his own, Reaper is desperate to claim Greer. Greer is an independent dragon; a healer for her clan, but a female who is determined not to let any alpha male take control of her life or her choices. Meeting Reaper stirs something deep within our storyline heroine, something that continues to grow as their lives are threatened on more than one occasion.

The relationship between Greer and Reaper is one of immediate attraction but Reaper is temporarily dependant upon our story line heroine to show him the ways of the modern world. Having no desire for a relationship or mate, Greer continues to fend off Reaper’s advances, advances that will slowly erode the wall around our heroine’s heart. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom we have met throughout the series including several supernatural species, their mates, and their growing families.

DARKNESS RISING is a story of family, betrayal, friendship and love. The premise is intriguing and captivating: the characters are sexy and inspiring; the romance is spirited and moving. DARKNESS RISING is another edgy instalment in Katie Reus’ DARKNESS paranormal, romance series.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews

Darkness Awakened
Taste of Darkness
Beyond the Darkness
Hunted by Darkness
Into The Darkness
Saved by Darkness
Guardian of Darkness
8.5 A Very Dragon Christmas
Darkness Rising

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Without thinking, she stalked toward him and smacked him on the nose. “I can’t believe you shot fire at me!” she snapped.

That was just bad dragon etiquette. Yet now that she’d had time to think about it, she realized he hadn’t been attacking her, because the fire had gone so wildly off course. And considering the strength she could feel rolling off this stranger, she didn’t think that was accidental. If he’d wanted to hit her, he would have. She was immune to dragon fire—as were all dragons—for as long as their bodies could withstand it anyway. But he shouldn’t have been immune to her healer’s fire. That was something she was going to worry about later.

In response, the male shifted to his human form in such a fluid, quick transformation it took her breath away. She’d only seen a few ancient dragons change forms like that.

Now the male stood in front of her, staring at her with electric, mesmerizing amber eyes. In that moment she froze, trying to decide if she should run or stay.
Then he tilted his head to the side ever so slightly and she forced her eyes to remain on his. This male was a predator, likely a warrior, that much she could sense. It wouldn’t do her any good to turn her back on him.

Finally he spoke, but in a language she didn’t understand—which made her pause.

She was part of the Petronilla clan, and one of their gifts was understanding every spoken language. It was one of those biological survival things woven into their DNA. It was simply part of who they were as a clan.

“I don’t understand you,” she said to the male.

His hair was long, the soft dark waves falling right to his broad shoulders. From what she could see, his chest was incredibly built and muscular. She wasn’t going to look any lower—that was bad manners. She couldn’t help staring into his eyes, however. He had the kind of face that would make angels cry.

And he was on her clan’s territory. Which was the real issue right now.

Though to be fair, he must have been sleeping far beneath the surface so he would have no clue he was on her Alpha’s territory. She turned slightly and pointed back to where her four-wheeler was. She often came out here with it, then stripped and shifted and took to the skies. She just hadn’t gotten around to the shifting or flying part today. She’d been enjoying basking in the sun. Now it looked as if flying was going to wait.

He reached up as if to touch her face but she gently caught his wrists and pushed them back down.

They didn’t know each other and she hadn’t given him any privileges yet.
He said something again, growling low in his throat as he leaned forward and sniffed her. Actually sniffed her.

Okay, then. This dragon must have been asleep for a long time because that was very bad manners. She just hoped he wasn’t as ancient as Mira and Prima, because while she loved the “twisted sisters,” they were like feral animals half the time. Every time Greer looked into their eyes, there was no civilization. They were simply putting on a veneer for everybody. She loved them, yes, but they were far more in touch with their dragon side than she was. Sighing, she turned and headed back to her four-wheeler, looking over her shoulder at him.

The male paused, watching her curiously, but ended up stalking after her, his bare feet quiet against the snow. He didn’t seem bothered by the cold or his nudity, which for the most part was to be expected with dragon shifters. And males in general. They seemed to have no problem showing themselves off.

He stared at the four-wheeler, frowning as she slid into the front seat. She started the engine and then patted the seat behind her.

He simply lifted an eyebrow and shook his head, murmuring something in that language she didn’t understand.

Sighing, she gave it a little gas so he could see it move. Then she patted the seat again. She needed to get him back to her Alpha’s place, and arrangements would have to be made. They’d have to find his people, and more importantly, make sure this dragon understood that they were not out to humans. Not only that, for all she knew, he knew nothing of technology—and given the way he was looking at her four-wheeler with disdain, she figured that was a good bet.

He shook his head again.

“Seriously? It’s not like this thing is going to hurt you,” she muttered. “You’re a freaking dragon.” Sighing, she turned off the engine and got off the vehicle. And when she stripped off her jacket, his eyes lit up with interest.

Of course. God save her from all males.

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, and IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. Her book Avenger’s Heat recently won the Georgia RWA Maggie Award for Excellence in the fantasy/paranormal category.

Connect with Katie:

Facebook | Blog| Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Website

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Ignite (Dark Kings #15) by Donna Grant-Review & Giveaway

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IGNITE (Dark Kings #15) by Donna Grant-Review and Giveaway

IGNITE
(Dark Kings #15)
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal/fantasy romance
Release Date April 30, 2019

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 30, 2019

Every inch of him was molded as if from granite…and her blood ran like fire…

For centuries, V has waited to awaken from his doomed sleep and reclaim his destiny. But this Dragon King–one among a legion of legendary warriors sworn to protect the human race from darkness–must first find a way to win back his sword. Wield its power. And try not to fall prey to his own illicit desires.

Claire may possess the beauty and soul of a goddess but V knows better than to mess with a mere mortal. Still, he instinctively knows that Claire is The One who can help him regain the use of his sword and restore his place at Dreagan. But if she learns the truth about who–and what–he really is, her memories of him would be erased forever. How can V love Claire truly, madly, deeply…and protect her from the forces of fire and darkness that could destroy them both?

•••••••••

REVIEW: IGNITE is the fifteenth full-length instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult DARK KINGS paranormal, fantasy romance series focusing on the Dragon Kings and the women they love. This is copper dragon V aka Vlad, and registered nurse Claire. IGNITE should not be read as a stand alone as the current story lines continue to follow an ongoing series arc.

SOME BACKGROUND: The DARK KINGS is a spinoff from Donna Grant’s DARK WARRIOR series which in turn is a spin off from Donna’s DARK SWORD series- all set in the Highlands of Scotland. The Dark Fae and their King Taraeth, along with the Silver Dragon Mikkel have declared war on the Dragon Kings by exposing the dragon’s existence to humankind. The last wars between man and the world of the paranormal saw a great loss of life on all sides but someone or something is determined to push the Dragons back into another war: Queen Usaeil of the Light Fae has set her sights on claiming King Constantine as her mate, and the Dark Fae want the Dragon’s hidden weapon in order to rule Scotland and the rest of the world. With the recent introduction of the Fae executioners known as the Reapers, the number of interconnected series continues to expand.

Told from several third person perspectives including V and Claire, following numerous intersecting paths IGNITE focuses on the prelude to war. Vlad aka V, the copper dragon struggles with his purpose in the new world. For years, Vlad remained within his mountain, in a deep slumber, to protect those he wanted to destroy. With his magical sword missing, and his memories shattered, V kept to himself until the time came, to once again, search for the sword. Meeting Claire, stirred something deep within our story line hero, something he struggled to accept or need. Falling in love and finding his mate while the Dragon Kings were on the verge of war, found V considering the future, including the future with our story line heroine. With the return of his sword, and the power within, V once again, battles with what he wants, and what he needs to do.

Meanwhile, Queen Usaeil is determined to make Con her mate, to rule everyone and everything with the King of Kings by her side but in order to claim the supernatural throne Usaeil must first destroy those who stand in her way. As the Dragon Kings prepare to go to war, they discover that friends and adversaries must merge together in order to take down the evil that approaches. Friends become enemies, enemies become allies in an effort to reinforce for the battles ahead.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many of the previous story line couples, a few Reapers and their leader Death, as well as another look at the group known as the Others. A surprise awaits Claire and V, an unexpected and unnatural piece of news that adds strife to an already tumultuous situation.

Claire is not a strong heroine, in fact, she longs for someone to love and love her back. Searching for ‘The One’ becomes tantamount for Claire, so much so that her search consumes her days and nights. Afraid of forever being alone Claire searches for her happily ever after. IGNITE reveals the ‘blogger’ behind the (Mis)adventures of a Dating Failure, a revelation that was a little disappointing and a bit of a let down- I was hoping for something more prophetic or extraordinary. The premise is revealing and engaging; the romance is fated and passionate; the characters are dynamic and animated. IGNITE begins to prepare the readers for the end of the series-an end that will reunite several series and characters we have grown to love throughout the years.

Dark Craving
Night’s Awakening
Dawn’s Desire
Darkest Flame
Fire Rising
Burning Desire
Hot Blooded
Night’s Blaze
Soul Scorched
Dragon King
Passion Ignites
Smoldering Hunger
Smoke and Fire
Dragon Fever 9.5
Firestorm
Blaze
Dragon Burn 11.5
Constantine: A History Part 1
Heat
Constantine: A History Part 2
Constantine: A History Part 3
Torched
Dragon Night 13.5
Dragon Fire
Dragon Claimed

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

St. Martin’s Publishing is graciously offering a paper copy of IGNITE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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