A Dance of Dragons: Series Starter Bundle

A Dance of Dragons #0.5 & 1

by Kaitlyn Davis

An ancient evil awakens.
Three unlikely heroes rise.
An age of myth is reborn.

Try the A DANCE OF DRAGONS series today, perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Kristin Cashore, and Tamora Pierce! This bundle includes the prequel novella, The Golden Cage, as well as the first full-length novel, The Shadow Soul.

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THE GOLDEN CAGE (A Dance of Dragons #0.5)

In the land of Ourthuro, cruelty is a way of life. The king rules with an iron fist and no one dare defy him--no one except his daughter. Princess Leena is keeping a dangerous secret, she has fallen in love with a soldier and it would mean both of their lives if her father ever discovered their affair.

But Leena will risk it all to be with the man she loves--her heart, her life, her freedom. And when her brother's birthday celebration takes a dangerous turn, Leena is forced to make a decision that will change the fate of her nation and eventually the world.

THE SHADOW SOUL (A Dance of Dragons #1)

When Jinji's home is destroyed, she is left with nowhere to run and no one to run to--until she meets Rhen, a prince chasing rumors that foreign enemies have landed on his shores. Masquerading as a boy, Jinji joins Rhen with vengeance in her heart. But traveling together doesn't mean trusting one another, and both are keeping a deep secret--magic. Jinji can weave the elements to create master illusions and Rhen can pull burning flames into his flesh.

But while they struggle to hide the truth, a shadow lurks in the night. An ancient evil has reawakened, and unbeknownst to them, these two unlikely companions hold the key to its defeat. Because their meeting was not coincidence--it was fate. And their story has played out before, in a long forgotten time, an age of myth that is about to be reborn...

Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult, Ebooks, Dragons, Amazon, Magic, Fiction

349 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 8, 2014

About the author

Bestselling author Kaitlyn Davis writes young adult fantasy novels under the name Kaitlyn Davis and contemporary romance novels under the name Kay Marie. Publishers Weekly has said, "Davis writes with confidence and poise," while USA Today has recommended her work as "must-read romance."

To learn more about her contemporary romance novels, visit her Goodreads author page for Kay Marie here: https://www.goodreads.com/Kay_Marie

Always blessed with an overactive imagination, Kaitlyn has been writing ever since she picked up her first crayon and is overjoyed to share her work with the world. When she's not daydreaming, typing stories, or getting lost in fictional worlds, Kaitlyn can be found playing fetch with her puppy, watching a little too much television, or spending time with her family. If you have any questions for her--about her books, about scheduling an event, or just in general--you may contact her at: KaitlynDavisBooks@gmail.com

Sign up for Kaitlyn's newsletter to stay up-to-date with all of her new releases and more! http://bit.ly/AuthorNewsletter

Like her on Facebook here: Facebook.com/KaitlynDavisBooks

Follow her on Instagram here: Instagram.com/kaitlyndavisbooks/

Reviews

[Annie · Rating 1 out of 5]

It's a naive book, full of soap-opera dramatics and pathos, I guess it would be ok to read for a 13-14-year old, but for a more mature reader it would be torture, also because sometimes common sense and logic actions are lacking in the plot.

In the short story about Leena, before she became a rider - she and her lover have the "genius" idea to hide their entire "runaway" pack with clothes, food and weapons UNDER HER BED. Come on, she is a princess with a tyrannical father who likes to control everyone and everything, the servants clean and search everything everyday, she is always watched. WHY would you hide those things there? It lacks common sense and logic. Why did they not hide the things in HIS bedroom, he is a guard, no one would look through HIS things, he's nobody. Throughout the story there are more similar instances that drove me mad.

I have a very visual imagination, when I read, I imagine everything as it is described, so I think you would understand my skittishness, when the girl "throws herself into his chest. I immediately imagined a scene from "Alien".

The series is rife with above mentioned "faults", but as I said, not every reader requires from a book that everything (or almost everything) is "logicproof".

One more thing that upset me, is that they pitched this series as a combo of "Song of Ice and Fire" with "Graceling" and some other book. Well, let me tell you that the "Dance of Dragons" has nothing in common with "Graceling" and "Song of Ice and Fire". Those books are GOOD.

Trust me, no one in "Graceling" is as sappy as the characters in "Dance of dragons".

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This bundle starts off with a short novella about Princess Leena of Ourthuro and introduces her cruel father who plays a larger role in the first book in the series The Shadow Soul. also part of this series. It starts off with Jinji's entire village being slaughtered on her wedding day by some strange "shadow" that has the power to possess people. Jinji is later found by the other MC, Prince Rhen of Whylkin. Jinji has the ability to weave illusions and had the image of her brother around her when Rhen found her. So he thinks she is a boy named Jin. Rhen has the ability to absorb fire within himself. Magic isn't common, so Jin believes that the spirits are have guided them together and that Rhen will lead her to the answers she needs to be able to defeat the shadow and avenge her family. Rhen believes that the King of Ourthuro attacked her village on their way to invade his father's kingdom. Rhen fancies himself a spy and takes Jin along as he follows the evidence to the isle kingdom of Ourthuro. With war on the horizon, both Rhen and Jin learn to trust one another, yet they both continue to keep secrets.

I thought this was a pretty good start to the series. I admit things were just getting good when it ended, so I will probably pursue the next book to see what happens. I liked both MCs. Jin has never been outside her forest and village, so the world of man with its large cities is amazing to her. She's also been through a lot, is the last of her people, yet while she is sad she doesn't let it get her down. Rhen is hilarious - he first decides to trust Jin because his HORSE likes Jin. His horse! He also has a vulnerable side. He does all his spying to atone for not being able to save his younger brother in his youth. I just love him. Leena also plays a small role in the first novel, and will likely reappear again. I am interested to see how exactly she gets her revenge on her cruel father.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

* Disclaimer* I received this starter bundle in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars.

I enjoyed the prequel and book but did have some issues with them. I felt that the two main characters and their relationship weren't developed enough. Jinji and Rhen meet, help each other, and then the book suddenly skips ahead a few weeks. The reader is supposed to believe that they have become close and good friends. Yet, the author doesn't provide any of that detail. I would have been more invested in the characters and their relationships if there had been more context and scenes between them that built the relationship and rapport.

The story itself doesn't pick up until halfway through the book, but once it does, I couldn't put the book down. I am interested to see where the series goes and especially want to see more of the main character of the prequel. I think the author has built an intriguing world that can only grow and become more complex. I will definitely read the sequel.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not entirely sure how I felt about this one; it's certainly competently written fantasy, and clearly trying to do right by the non-white characters from an indigenous culture in the fantasy kingdom, but there's something about starting a book off with the massacre of all-but-one person of their culture that made me uncomfortable. I am curious about how the narrative will go from this first book, but that was a plot choice I'd rather give people a heads-up on to brace for. The second half of the book was a lot stronger/more gripping than the beginning, and I did enjoy the way that Rhen and Jinji slowly grew to know and respect each other through the book. (Leena, who was briefly in book one and the protagonist of the novella preceding it was really neat and I would definitely like to know more about her.)

[Coco.V]

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[Emmeline (The Book Herald)]

Maybe? Perhaps? I don't know.
The premise has a girl dressing up/impersonating as a boy and becoming best friends with a prince. We all know they'll eventually fall in loveeeee! I feel like having read Paladin, its really pushing me into reading this one!

[Tiera McMillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 ish. So yep that ending /cry! It was just getting interesting! So this was a really good start to the series. I will say the Novella at the beginning hardly made any sense as a prequel. It would maybe have been better if it had just been combined with the story as maybe alternating viewpoints sense they seem to be happening simultaneously. The world building itself wasn’t bad I could create the scenes in my head but we are seriously lacking in backstory or lore or anything of that nature.

Who are these spirit blessed people? I’m calling them spirit blessed since it seems no one has a clue about them hardly. There are stories of dragons etc but only as destructive beings. Does Jin not think it’s weird she can manipulate the elements for her illusions? Did her people know? Rhen has always know he was different did he not ever know why? Did he never wonder what he was or how it came to be?

Of course we are left with a cliffhanger! The most shocking things about the ending were the king and the royal families blatant disregard for both their safety and their peoples when rhen delivers news of what he has been through. They weren’t even listening! I wanted Rhen to hop up mid battle and do some sort of I told you so dance or something. So irritating. Why does he feel so absolutely betrayed after finding Jin is a girl? Enough to even throw her in the dungeon? After she just had an episode which seemed shapeshiftery in description but I assume that was only happening in her mind since she was just lying there on the floor, and she just saved his life...yet again. I’m about to come through the page and smack him across the face!

Can’t wait to see what happens next! Hopefully we can make some discoveries that puts the end goal in light! All together an enjoyable fast read.

[Lynn Poppe · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a book with dragon in the title, A Shadow Soul was significantly lacking in actual dragons. The first brief mention is +190 pages in. The actual dragon doesn’t appear until +320 pages. Of a total 335 pages. A bit of a let down there. Instead, we have Jin and Rhen, searching for information together. 3 1/2 Stars for A Dance of Dragons Series Starter Bundle

Jin, or rather Jinji, is an “outworlder”. The literal last of her clan. As her entire village is destroyed by a spirit that embodies others and forces them to horrible acts against their will. She spends the majority of the book searching for the spirit which destroyed her village. And feeling survivor’s remorse. Rhen is a “newworlder” and a prince of the realm. He’s also the next king’s spymaster, using his playboy cover to discover any threats against his family. Rhen discovers Jin barely alive. And the two become travel companions. I liked both characters. Jin was believable in her grief. She has the ability to weave images, so disguises herself as a boy. She understands that in no way is a young woman safe in the unknown world she’s facing. She also understands that as much as Rhen is protecting her, she is also there to protect Rhen. She adapts well to all situations, including not only her first visit to an actual city, but her first time on a ship. I was impressed by her perseverance throughout the novel. Rhen has the outward appearance of a flirt and playboy. But instead of sleeping his way through towns, he’s using this cover to search out information. A search that leads him to discover a plot by the neighboring king. He’s loyal to a fault. And also a warrior, leading the charge in one instance in a naval battle.

In addition to A Shadow Soul, I read The Golden Cage (book 0.5 in the series). This novella follows Princess Leena of Ourthuro, the neighboring kingdom. I wasn’t sure of the connection between the two stories until Leena’s guard\love pops up in Shadow Soul. Once that connection was made, I could see where the plot of both stories was headed – to get the three characters (Jin, Rhen, Leena) together, probably to save the world, as all three have “special” elemental powers. Jin is the spirit element; Rhen is fire; and Leena is water.

As the titular dragon doesn’t appear until the end of the novel, I’m interested in seeing what happens in the next book of the series. And hopeful that there will be more actual dragons. While looking at the list of books in the series, I see number of 0.5 novellas. The half novels appear to be Leena’s story, while the whole numbers are Jin and Rhen. I’m looking forward to reading the other books in this series.

[Vered · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing start to a series. I enjoyed the world building in this YA fantasy. There was enough intrigue and twists to keep me reading. Unlike some YA, this one is character-driven, which was enjoyable to read.

[bex · Rating 2 out of 5]

Neither book has a real ending. Will not be reading this series.

[Courtney · Rating 1 out of 5]

most of this book didn't make sense. I guess you could enjoy it if you completely suspended all disbelief and didn't use any critical thinking skills at all. the overall idea is definitely good, but the writing is bad. the MC's are practically omniscient. they just seem to know everything. jinji knows her entire village is dead when she's still in a field miles away. she knows that Rhen is her savior/guide without ever meeting him. she knows the captain is dead without seeing or hearing anything. And Rhen knows everything about this enemy plot, and he's just so smart and great and everyone else doubts him, even though he has no evidence. The author constantly just imbues knowledge on people just to progress the story. it's lazy. and yet, they're so stupid too. Rhen puts his ear to Jin's chest to see if she's breathing, but somehow doesn't notice that she has boobs. Jinji actually does have a good base to be a good character, but the writing is so superficial and surface level that we don't really get to know her. Rhen is immature and annoying. He is not the spy he thinks he is. And although there's lots of death in this book, the overall plot didn't actually progress that much. plus, Mizka's ending was just so unnecessary. the novella was already depressing enough.

[Sue Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Enjoyable Story

Young woman Jinji (later known a the young boy Jin) of the Arpapajo people. They survive in the jungles away from all others, away from all modern things. On her joining day (wedding day), her world will be destroyed. When found almost dead, in shock she is mistaken for a young boy which she decides not to correct and using her own type of magic takes the face of her dead twin brother. A young Prince Rhen, 3rd son of Whyl finds the burning village and uses his secret power of being able to absorb fire to stop the fire and searches for anyone alive and finds young Jin who he saves. Rhen and Jin seam to go back and forth saving each other and becoming great friends (but friends with secrets). Many adventures await them. Rhen is right in looking for people bring war though misses how close to home it starts. Jinin is also right about the sports she believes is leading her to the answers of what is happening and why. But almost to late discovers they need to help each other. Love to see the next book to see where this will go next.

[Markel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first part of the book. The characters were immature in how they did things but I am going to assume that with their upbringings neither knew how to be truly sneaky. It was a nice introduction to the world and the evils that would be encountered.

The second half of the book I thought was good until the ending. I enjoyed the world building but character priorities seemed to be out of line with how I think a kingdom would be run if you're hoping to extend its lineage, there seemed to be a lack of logic. I can forgive the lies and secrets because when dealing with other people and magic you're never sure who to trust but after all they had been through I felt the MMCs actions during the finale toward the FMC were harsh, unwarranted and against his character especially after what she did for him, and his family. The adventure seemed well thought out and the banter and conversation between the characters were sad, funny and heart warming. Overall a good story.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a series of books. The prequel and first book do end in cliffhangers, but I did not feel cheated. The world the author creates is rich, interesting, and different from other books of this genre. The characters are likable and relatable. I enjoyed this first book, which I received for free, and would like to read additional books in the series after I finish the other 80 books on my Kindle that I have yet to read :).

If you're hoping for a one off story that is part of a series, this is not going to be the book for you. If you're looking for an adventure series with heart, magical elements, and likable main characters; give this series a try.

[Violet H Harmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting fantasy

A well written fantasy with great characters. The prince that is completely unappreciated by his family. The young girl that’s the last of her tribe. Both have strong connections to the spirits. The girl pretends to be a boy and becomes close to the prince. As they learn the horrendous danger threatening his family and country they try desperately to stop it.

[Naoé · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure when I started this book that I would like it but the story and the characters grew on me
I like the magic system and the two main characters and their relationship I liked the female character a lot she’s really interesting and the revelation at the end hit to so much more
I liked the general plot even if I thought some part of this book were a bit slow it was still really enjoyable
I don’t know if I’m gonna read the sequel right now but I’m intrigued by it at least

[Book Wyvern · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am pleasantly surprised by this. I really enjoyed it.

The subtle fantasy, the pacing, the way it was written. My jaw dropped a couple of times near the end.

I get that the author wanted to show the main plot of the story, but I do wish the story had ended on chapter 18. That really would have made me go on to the other book.

If you'd like to read the rest of my review, please visit my blog!

[Jeanie's Kindle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fragmented

Once you get into it, it flows. Initially it is like a train wreck. You begin to read about a jeweled princess in love with her bodyguard. Then you are without transition reading about a native girl on her wedding day. Finally with a transition you meet a wayward Prince and his diva horse.

[Dorothy Schwartz · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting

I had to struggle to find meaningful relationships. The mostly read contrived. I felt as if the story followed a pre described set of rules that needed to be followed. I kept waiting for something to sink my teeth into.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right up there

This novel kept me reading from page one. I reared up at places and felt my stomach drop at others. I need to find where these character exist again and follow them to the conclusion of the story.

[Lexie · Rating 4 out of 5]

My reviews will be posted on each story individually, links to be added later.

Overall I became intrigued by the first book about 25% of the way in. Davis seemed to find the right balance for her characters at this point and began driving the plot more firmly.

[Dyanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

The story started out with glimpses of magic . A young girl about to become a woman and the future leader of her people. She is special but it is not enough to avert a tragedy that will change her life for ever.

[Ieshea · Rating 5 out of 5]

High Fantasy

Death ,destruction, lies, truth, elements, spirits, royalty and peasantry,this book has all those and more. The storyline is epic,the characters run the range and I can not wait til I can read the next one

[Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marvelous book!

Definitely one of my favorites so far.

I just couldn't stop reading unless it was absolutely necessary. Kaitlyn Davis has surpassed my expectations.

I loved this book.

[Diane Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected storyline

I found this book's storyline a bit different, unexpected. I love the stories that are three different characters, yet their lives are being woven together; to some future point. Very good read.

[Terrianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.1... Unexpectedly good beyond the prologue

...humm... drawn out and bizarre beginning... BUT once you get past that and on to chapter one, it's as though you are reading a completely different mind. I am very happy I didn't stop at the prologue.

[Janelleehat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy cow!

That was incredible!! I need the next book ASAP. I am speechless. Well woven tale. Well developed characters. Words that evoke such strong imagery and emotion. This is a masterful book.

[Kelly Greaves · Rating 2 out of 5]

The prequel or novella at the beginning of this book was captivating and enjoyable, I wanted more...

The rest of the book? Pure confusion... I was continuously lost and confused, often losing interest. Glad to be done with it.

[Angela Gutierrez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm excitee to explore the magic system Davis is building. There are still a lot of questions I have about the spirits and elemental magic. I also can't wait to see what happens next with Jinji and Rhen. This story was a great start, and I will be picking up the next one.

[Aimee Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

unexpected

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started reading it and almost put it down before we got out of the first Kingdom empire? But I persisted and it got better and better and better. It was an excellent read. I highly recommend it