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The Dragon Heart Legacy Trilogy Set
#1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts begins a new trilogy of adventure, romance, and magick in The Awakening. The Dragon Heart Legacy Trilogy Set contains The Awakening, The Becoming, The Choice. In the realm of Talamh, a teenage warrior named Keegan emerges from a lake holding a sword―representing both power and the terrifying responsibility to protect the Fey. In another realm known as Philadelphia, a young woman has just discovered she possesses a treasure of her own… When Breen Kelly was a girl, her father would tell her stories of magical places. Now she’s an anxious twentysomething mired in student debt and working a job she hates. But one day she stumbles upon a shocking her mother has been hiding an investment account in her name. It has been funded by her long-lost father―and it’s worth nearly four million dollars. This newfound fortune would be life-changing for anyone. But little does Breen know that when she uses some of the money to journey to Ireland, it will unlock mysteries she couldn’t have imagined. Here, she will begin to understand why she kept seeing that silver-haired, elusive man, why she imagined his voice in her head saying Come home, Breen Siobhan. It’s time you came home. Why she dreamed of dragons. And where her true destiny lies―through a portal in Galway that takes her to a land of faeries and mermaids, to a man named Keegan, and to the courage in her own heart that will guide her through a powerful, dangerous destiny…
1344 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2022
75 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,225 books60.3k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 10, 2024
You may wonder why I went through three fat books if I only gave them 2 stars. Here's why: mainly, the dialogue. I felt like the world building was well done, and most of the characters were fun, but when it came to their conversations, they were mostly all the same thing or variations on the same thing over and over and over again. Only once or twice was I interested in what they had to say, and only because it finally drove the plot forward or finally gave more depth to otherwise predictable characters. I didn't feel sad for anything until the baby dragons (3rd book folks!!), so I suppose I really wanted to like it because of my love of fantasy worlds, but it just fell flat for me. Oh, and all the language and sex just got old. I was disappointed when Marco got himself dragged into the world with her because he had the biggest potty mouth of all. And all the drinking... Don't they ever drink anything but wine and ale and whiskey!?! Oh right, sometimes water.
June 3, 2024
I enjoy reading Nora Robert’s books, and not having ready anything from her in the past 15 years, this felt like catching up with an old friend. Balancing the two worlds, in a fantasy of fairytale and imagination, a fun read. Did this bring anything to my life other than enjoyment? Probably not. Will I remember her characters for more than a year, probably not. Will I remember a fantasy world where dragons hearts beat as one with its rider? Maybe. Yes, light versus dark, simple plot, carried through three books. Same rhythm. Hello my old friend. I hope to catchup with you again sometime.
February 2, 2025
I have read a lot of Nora Roberts books and loved them all - HOWEVER - this is my favorite trilogy - I won't say why because I would be spoiling it - but even if you don't have a lot of Irish in you - if you love danger and whimsy and friendship and love - you will absolutely love it.
September 16, 2025
I totally love this trilogy! It takes me back to when I believed in magic, in the fantastic, and in the stories I grew up with about elves, fairies, trolls, the wise, and dragons. It shows the ultimate fight between good and evil. However, Nora Roberts touches on other themes as well. She shows the reader the true meaning of family. In this story Breen and Marco are rejected by their immediate families for who and what they are, but are accepted by the most unlikely of characters to be a family of the heart. Breen finds her grandmother who accepts Marco for the wonderful man he is, and both are adopted and loved by a grandfather who really isn’t. But Roberts doesn’t just look at the brokenness. She also shows how family, brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers, can pull together and truly share love, commitment, and strength. Roberts also looks at the themes of friendship and acceptance.
I honestly wish the story could grow even more and continue, but I guess that’s for this reader’s imagination.
I honestly wish the story could grow even more and continue, but I guess that’s for this reader’s imagination.
December 29, 2023
“You have a chance and a choice to be what you are. To build on all that came before, reach for what comes next. To fail, well, greatness rises from first failures.” (from The Awakening)
This story is a journey following Breen Kelly to Ireland, her father's homeland, and what she discovers of the world and herself and where she discovers a whole other world she never expected. The lyrical writing beautifully ties in all the threads of the adventure and magic within this world. I expected a great story, and I did find that, but I also found ideas and challenges that spoke to me personally and inspire me.
This story is a journey following Breen Kelly to Ireland, her father's homeland, and what she discovers of the world and herself and where she discovers a whole other world she never expected. The lyrical writing beautifully ties in all the threads of the adventure and magic within this world. I expected a great story, and I did find that, but I also found ideas and challenges that spoke to me personally and inspire me.
April 10, 2024
Interesting story. Too much unnecessary detail.
July 1, 2024
The first book was good but second book ok . I got last last one.
December 20, 2024
SUMMARY- The book Awakening by Nora Roberts is a book about fantasy stories while having romance in it at the same time. A young woman named Breen Kelly who lives in the Philadelphia area. (Roberts) “And struggled the anxiety of making so big of a commitment.” She has always looked at herself differently and always had anxiety. As if she wasn't where she was supposed to be. She has always had troubles after her father died which caused a lot of problems with mental health. Like in (Roberts) “It's my damn hair, and she's supposed to love me as I am. So she can get the hell over it” This is another example of the mental health issues and her not being happy ect. Bree finds out after looking through her second fathers old things that she has powers that most people don't have. Breen meets someone named Keegan who has a complex history as a warrior. Her and Keegan slowly start to get along slowly better little by little into a relationship.
Characters- The main characters are Breen, Keegan then some others but they dont play as big of a role in the story. Breen is a woman that has always felt different then once she figured out that she had powers she knew that she was different which turned out to be in a good way. She started out not thinking too well of herself but threw out the story as she got better and better. Along the way she met a boy named Keegan who also had powers but he was a warrior with an odd history behind him. The two ended up dating down the road after getting closer to each other.
Themes and messages- This story shows Breen chasing to find the true her with meeting new people and learning new things on the way that turn out to teach her more than she thought. Powers and magic plays a big role because that was one of the factors that caused her to feel off about herself and that she was different somehow. Breen and Keegan end up falling deeply in love with each other but it doesn't start out that way. They go through hard times and have to work together to get through them. She was living in her fathers shadow for a long time due to his legacy.
Personal reflection- The Awakening combines relatable people and moments to magic and fantasy to balance out to a relatable story. It shows how someone can completely change but also improve themselves at the same time. It shows how much love can change someone's view and they act ect. You can tell Keegan plays a big role due to his care and thought through the story and how much he ends up caring about Breen by the end of the story compared to the start of it.
Recommendation- Nora Roberts wrote this story for people that wanted to read something that would give them the fantasy rush while at the same time being able to relate and imagine yourself as the warrior or the person living in their fathers shadow. She puts a lot of emotion into her writing so you can feel with the character in their victories to their losses just like a normal human. Constand adventures so you almost never have to read through a slow or dry chapter due to you always being on your toes on what's going to happen next.
Real world connection- This story shows real world daily issues. We are all warriors in our own battles. This shows how teamwork can get the job done and get the job done well even with setbacks and sad times. It's not about the mistake, it's about how you work to fix it. This story has a lot of emotions which a lot of people have because we are all human and have our own feelings and we are not perfect. The awakening is an inspiring story to keep fighting the battle even on a downfall to just put your head down and work.
Characters- The main characters are Breen, Keegan then some others but they dont play as big of a role in the story. Breen is a woman that has always felt different then once she figured out that she had powers she knew that she was different which turned out to be in a good way. She started out not thinking too well of herself but threw out the story as she got better and better. Along the way she met a boy named Keegan who also had powers but he was a warrior with an odd history behind him. The two ended up dating down the road after getting closer to each other.
Themes and messages- This story shows Breen chasing to find the true her with meeting new people and learning new things on the way that turn out to teach her more than she thought. Powers and magic plays a big role because that was one of the factors that caused her to feel off about herself and that she was different somehow. Breen and Keegan end up falling deeply in love with each other but it doesn't start out that way. They go through hard times and have to work together to get through them. She was living in her fathers shadow for a long time due to his legacy.
Personal reflection- The Awakening combines relatable people and moments to magic and fantasy to balance out to a relatable story. It shows how someone can completely change but also improve themselves at the same time. It shows how much love can change someone's view and they act ect. You can tell Keegan plays a big role due to his care and thought through the story and how much he ends up caring about Breen by the end of the story compared to the start of it.
Recommendation- Nora Roberts wrote this story for people that wanted to read something that would give them the fantasy rush while at the same time being able to relate and imagine yourself as the warrior or the person living in their fathers shadow. She puts a lot of emotion into her writing so you can feel with the character in their victories to their losses just like a normal human. Constand adventures so you almost never have to read through a slow or dry chapter due to you always being on your toes on what's going to happen next.
Real world connection- This story shows real world daily issues. We are all warriors in our own battles. This shows how teamwork can get the job done and get the job done well even with setbacks and sad times. It's not about the mistake, it's about how you work to fix it. This story has a lot of emotions which a lot of people have because we are all human and have our own feelings and we are not perfect. The awakening is an inspiring story to keep fighting the battle even on a downfall to just put your head down and work.
May 19, 2025
4.5/5 if Goodreads allowed half stars! If you’re looking for a modern fantasy escape with roots in Celtic mythology, heartfelt relationships, and a battle between light and dark, The Dragon Heart Legacy Trilogy by Nora Roberts is for you. Across The Awakening, The Becoming, and The Choice, Roberts builds the world of Talamh, filled with magic, prophecy, and the struggle between good and evil. While the series leans heavily on familiar fantasy tropes, Roberts’ makes it her own with her signature emotional depth and character-driven storytelling.
The trilogy follows Breen Kelly, a teacher who stumbles(literally) into the truth of her heritage. Green is half-human half-fae, destined to determine the fate of Talmah(magical realm). The world-building in the series, particularly in The Awakening, is so intricately detailed, Roberts makes you feel as though you are stepping into the inviting yet dangerous Talamh with Breen. I imagined its green hills as an extension of Ireland stuck in time.
The narrative structure flows well across the three books, with each installment gradually intensifying toward the final battle. The Awakening focuses on the discovery of Talmah, The Becoming focuses on Breen’s training and some confrontations, and The Choice focuses on the emotional final battle. Roberts doesn’t rush the story, she paces it allowing readers to grow alongside Breen.
What makes this trilogy so engaging isn’t just the magic, it’s the characters. Breen is a relatable protagonist, filled with self-doubt. Her growth is the arc that anchors the trilogy. Keegan, her warrior counterpart/ eventual love interest, is fierce and loyal to his people. While their romance is very predictable it never feels overly forced.
Secondary characters like Marco, Breen’s best friend, brings warmth and humor. Marco’s inclusion, especially as a gay Black man, adds welcome diversity and is handled with care and respect. Robert’s created so many characters and lets you get to know them, although Marco is my favorite character, she gives everyone a little time to build the entire story.
At its heart, this trilogy is about identity, belonging, and choice(see what I did there). Breen must decide who she wants to be, not just what destiny tells her, and not what people expect of her. Roberts adds many themes to create the series, themes like self-empowerment, familial healing, and love(not just romantic) , and found family. There’s also a consistent whisper-yelling theme of resisting authoritarianism and standing up for what’s right, which is needed in today’s world.
Some readers have critiqued the trilogy for its slow pacing and repetition, especially in book two. I understand that criticism, but I’d argue the slower pace gives space for reflection and character building. If you’re here solely for action-packed battles and smut, you might get impatient. But if you’re drawn to emotional arcs you’ll appreciate the depth.This isn’t my first Roberts' book and I can say with confidence her strength is her ability to blend everyday human struggles with extraordinary circumstances.
The Dragon Heart Legacy Trilogy is a perfect blend of fantasy and drama. It doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a story about stepping into your power, facing hard truths, and choosing your own destiny. For fans of Sarah J. Maas, Deborah Harkness, or even Roberts' own Chronicles of The One series, this trilogy is for you.
The trilogy follows Breen Kelly, a teacher who stumbles(literally) into the truth of her heritage. Green is half-human half-fae, destined to determine the fate of Talmah(magical realm). The world-building in the series, particularly in The Awakening, is so intricately detailed, Roberts makes you feel as though you are stepping into the inviting yet dangerous Talamh with Breen. I imagined its green hills as an extension of Ireland stuck in time.
The narrative structure flows well across the three books, with each installment gradually intensifying toward the final battle. The Awakening focuses on the discovery of Talmah, The Becoming focuses on Breen’s training and some confrontations, and The Choice focuses on the emotional final battle. Roberts doesn’t rush the story, she paces it allowing readers to grow alongside Breen.
What makes this trilogy so engaging isn’t just the magic, it’s the characters. Breen is a relatable protagonist, filled with self-doubt. Her growth is the arc that anchors the trilogy. Keegan, her warrior counterpart/ eventual love interest, is fierce and loyal to his people. While their romance is very predictable it never feels overly forced.
Secondary characters like Marco, Breen’s best friend, brings warmth and humor. Marco’s inclusion, especially as a gay Black man, adds welcome diversity and is handled with care and respect. Robert’s created so many characters and lets you get to know them, although Marco is my favorite character, she gives everyone a little time to build the entire story.
At its heart, this trilogy is about identity, belonging, and choice(see what I did there). Breen must decide who she wants to be, not just what destiny tells her, and not what people expect of her. Roberts adds many themes to create the series, themes like self-empowerment, familial healing, and love(not just romantic) , and found family. There’s also a consistent whisper-yelling theme of resisting authoritarianism and standing up for what’s right, which is needed in today’s world.
Some readers have critiqued the trilogy for its slow pacing and repetition, especially in book two. I understand that criticism, but I’d argue the slower pace gives space for reflection and character building. If you’re here solely for action-packed battles and smut, you might get impatient. But if you’re drawn to emotional arcs you’ll appreciate the depth.This isn’t my first Roberts' book and I can say with confidence her strength is her ability to blend everyday human struggles with extraordinary circumstances.
The Dragon Heart Legacy Trilogy is a perfect blend of fantasy and drama. It doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a story about stepping into your power, facing hard truths, and choosing your own destiny. For fans of Sarah J. Maas, Deborah Harkness, or even Roberts' own Chronicles of The One series, this trilogy is for you.
nora-roberts
October 1, 2024The Dragon Legacy Trilogy: Book 1 - The Awakening** "The Dragon Legacy Trilogy: Book 1 - The Awakening" is a mesmerizing introduction to a world filled with magic, adventure, and self-discovery. From the very first page, the author captures the reader's imagination with beautifully crafted prose and vivid imagery. The story unfolds in a way that makes you feel intimately connected to the characters and the enchanting world of Talamh. The protagonist's internal dialogue is relatable and engaging, particularly her transition from childhood fantasies of dragons and battles to the deeper complexities of her destiny. The exploration of her thoughts, especially those surrounding her first day in a new realm, beautifully illustrate the mix of excitement and uncertainty that accompanies new beginnings. The quiet moments, like the scenes by the cottage fire and the peaceful ambiance of the night sky, are intricately woven into the narrative, offering readers a sense of calm that contrasts with the thrilling adventure that lies ahead. The interplay between the serene setting and the protagonist's budding journey sets a tone that promises both introspection and action. The hints of future battles and destiny add a layer of anticipation that had me eagerly turning pages, wanting to learn more about the dragon she longs for and the secrets that will unfold in her life. Overall, "The Awakening" is not just a tale about dragons and battles; it's about finding one's place in a vast, magical universe. This book is perfect for fans of fantasy who appreciate rich storytelling and character development. I can't wait to dive into the next installment of the trilogy and see how the protagonist's journey unfolds. Highly recommended for anyone looking to be swept away into a world of wonder and adventure!
July 11, 2024
I really like the story and the reading of this trilogy. It was a strong story line and had great characters.
My only criticism, and it's a pretty big one, is that though the female lead character turns from being a meek individual, she believably changes and goes from strength to strength but when she and her best friend are in scenes together, they turn into irritating teenagers in the way that they speak to each other. I listened to this book on Audibles and maybe if I had read it, it would not have been as noticeable, but I doubt it. It wasn't the reading that made them seem so childish but the words they used. It really let the whole storyline down and for characters who as individuals were great, it was very disappointing.
My only criticism, and it's a pretty big one, is that though the female lead character turns from being a meek individual, she believably changes and goes from strength to strength but when she and her best friend are in scenes together, they turn into irritating teenagers in the way that they speak to each other. I listened to this book on Audibles and maybe if I had read it, it would not have been as noticeable, but I doubt it. It wasn't the reading that made them seem so childish but the words they used. It really let the whole storyline down and for characters who as individuals were great, it was very disappointing.
June 2, 2025
The whole trilogy was pretty slow and light on the action. Some of the characters are predictable and cliched. It also felt slow because you never actually meet the baddie until the last three pages and then it’s over!
Plus, why are the dragons not more… more!!! It’s a freakin’ dragon, not an it! Considering it’s called dragon heart the dragons don’t really appear, are given minimal feelings and no way to communicate. Wtf… give me more dragon!
However there are some things about this book I liked. The main character does transition and grow somewhat, and the description of places and things was pretty good - I could picture it well.
Just surprised at the high rating on here as the pace was just very very slow!
Plus, why are the dragons not more… more!!! It’s a freakin’ dragon, not an it! Considering it’s called dragon heart the dragons don’t really appear, are given minimal feelings and no way to communicate. Wtf… give me more dragon!
However there are some things about this book I liked. The main character does transition and grow somewhat, and the description of places and things was pretty good - I could picture it well.
Just surprised at the high rating on here as the pace was just very very slow!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
Wow! What a series!! Bravo, Nora Roberts, these are my favorites by far. What I loved: the amazing characters that I loved; the strength and courage and how it grows in Breen; Breen and Marco; all the relationships, including the romances; moving between worlds; the balance between life, writing, training and conflict; Bollocks, with his exhuberant joy, and the children. Just all terrific. (I would definitely read these in order.) I would highly recommend these books.
August 30, 2025
This did not need to be a 3 book series. 1 book would have sufficed.
Book 1 talks all about this big battle that could destroy all worlds… did it happen in book 1? No.
Book 2 talks all about this same big, bad battle… did it happen? NO.
Book 3 continues on with the same damn talk of the all-world ending battle and it finally happens in the LAST 9 PAGES of the 438 page book!
Nora… wtf was that? You needed 3 books to build up a battle and all you could think of was 9 pages?!
Book 1 talks all about this big battle that could destroy all worlds… did it happen in book 1? No.
Book 2 talks all about this same big, bad battle… did it happen? NO.
Book 3 continues on with the same damn talk of the all-world ending battle and it finally happens in the LAST 9 PAGES of the 438 page book!
Nora… wtf was that? You needed 3 books to build up a battle and all you could think of was 9 pages?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2025
I wanted so badly to love this series fully. I loved the setting, the world building, and the characters. What kept bothering me though was the dialogue and plot holes.. so many gaps in the story line! Some other things that were weird.. Breen has a freaking dragon, but in battle her goofy young dog is the fierce warrior and the dragon is M.I.A? There are also times where it jumps from cottage-core to ritual rape and cannibalism or child sacrifice. What a whiplash!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2025
These books don’t get talked about enough. This is such a comfy and exciting series that got me into fantasy books. You will feel like you’re in an enchanted magical fairy land while reading. The story quickly becomes addicting and the characters feel like family. When I tell you I felt devastating loss when I finished this series… I felt it.. hard. I think these books will forever hold a place in my heart.
February 16, 2024
This was a well written, magical trilogy that kept me reading from book one to book three, any chance I had to read.
If you like magicks and fantasy with drama and romance, this is highly recommended
If you like magicks and fantasy with drama and romance, this is highly recommended
September 22, 2024
I actually read these books (some have mentioned unappealing tone from audio) and loved them. It was the most uplifting series I've read in a while and includes all the fantasy staples of good/evil, human/creature, etc. Such a joy to read!
February 17, 2025
I feel this could have 2 more chapters , follow up with Marcos fab wedding , check on nana after she looses her love . Have breen and Marco and the mates go back to America and when they come back through the tree have breen and Marco say " let's go home "
July 4, 2025
It's slow going at the beginning, and gets bit mundane when the author goes on and on about everyday predictable stuff. However, if you can stick with it, gets more interesting The outcome is usually rather predictable. Maybe ok for younger readers
October 18, 2023
Extremely well written. Very creative and entertaining! Zipped through all 3 books!
October 23, 2023
I was able to read them in order I would suggest that. If you want to follow the whole story. They can also be stand alone book.
December 27, 2023
OMG!!! I couldn’t put my book down…started out a little slow but then it exploded into all the magic feels
January 5, 2024
One of my favorite series. Absolutely amazing!
January 25, 2024
I enjoyed the story very much! I was left in suspense at the end of each book until the last one. I wish there would be more! I need to know what happens after! I need to know if Sally got to go.
February 9, 2024
Loved the first two. On waiting list for third book. The readers with their Irish accents are exceptional. And the story is riveting!
March 30, 2024
I love her writing, this book takes you away to another place
April 4, 2024
This series was the best. I love reading her books. I love the dragons,whitches,trolls, and fairies. She is a great author.
April 4, 2024
Exceptional!
April 13, 2024
Great series in general but it just felt like the author lost interest in the story by the third book. The main story got wrapped up in the end but there were a lot of items that were never concluded
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews