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Upon Dragon's Breath #2
Dragons of Kings
The battle for Torvald begins. As the young heir of a noble house fallen into decay, Bower has reluctantly shouldered the mantle he was born with—that of Torvald’s rightful king. It is his destiny to throw off the shackles of King Enric and lead his people to freedom, or so he’s been told. With the help of the wild and untamed Dragon Rider Saffron, he hopes to unite his downtrodden people. It will take an uneasy alliance with a rogue band of Dragon Riders and their charismatic leader, Ryland, to challenge the Dark Mage king, but distrust threatens to tear apart the force that he’s risked everything to build. Now, on the eve of battle, Bower will have to fulfill a mystical prophecy and become the leader he was born to be, or risk his future kingdom falling apart. Surrounded on all sides by deadly foes, he must face not only the evil king, but his deep doubts about himself.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2016
249 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Ava Richardson
153 books429 followersAva Richardson writes epic page-turning Young Adult Fantasy books. She creates lovable characters and drops them into intricate worlds that are barely contained within your eReader. Ava has written 21 YA dragon fantasy series, including her bestselling series Return of the Darkening and her recent series, Destia's Dragon Shifter War.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
She grew up on a steady diet of fantasy and science fiction books handed down from her two big brothers – and despite being dog-eared and missing pages, she loved escaping into the magical worlds that those authors created. Her favorites were the ones about dragons; where they’d swoop, dive and soar through the skies of these enchanted lands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 26, 2018
1) Dragons of Wild: ★★★½
See my FULL review of this book on my blog along with others at: shesgoingbookcrazy.com
Initially, I was slow to get back into this series, and remembering all of the details. I let far too much time pass from when I read Dragons of Wild, which is a shame. What I found when I jumped back into this world, however, was how much I appreciated this series. It’s clean, it has straight-forward intentions, the characters are wholesome, and it is a refreshing deviation from the typical YA fantasy read.
World Building
Dragons of Kings is set in the surrounding lands of Torvald. While there is detail given of the land, it is not in depth, and somewhat difficult to follow where the characters actually are. More of the world building comes into play when the reader is introduced to the Three-Rivers Clan, and see some of their perspectives, especially towards dragons.
Pacing & Readability
The pacing is moderate but remains consistent throughout the entire book. While this book is easy to read, I had a difficult time staying engaged with it as not a lot happened. The distance between "point A" to "point B" could be summed up in just a few sentences.
Point-of-View & Characters
The point-of-view remains the same as Dragons of Wild, and shifts between Saffron and Bower. The reader is privy to moderately deeper ruminations of the characters this time around. I felt that I got a better picture of Bower's character overall.
For the first time, Bower is challenged by the dragons to see if he is worthy enough to be the dragon king. He knows he is the true heir to the throne, but struggles immensely with the responsibility that comes with it.
Saffron's character was rather flat in this sequel. While she has a few challenges thrown her way, her character didn't react as much as I would have expected in the situations. If it wasn't for Jaydra helping her along, I fear Saffron would be nearly unremarkable.
We are introduced to a few new characters (both dragons and humans) in this installment, but these too are barely explored. Ryland, the leader of the Three-Rivers clan is briefly introduced, then made into a petty criminal with his acts towards the black dragons.
King Enric, the antagonist of the series, is probably the most consistent character of all. I felt that as the villain, he delivered what was expected of him.
Major Themes
⇒ Good vs. Evil:
The battle between good and evil is the central theme through this series. Saffron and Bower, the representatives of good, fight against King Enric, an evil sorcerer king who has tried (and mostly succeeded) in wiping everyone's minds clean of dragons and history in general. As I stated in my review for Dragons of Wild, this series parallels Fahrenheit 451, in the idea that knowledge (books) are dangerous. This is exactly the world that King Enric is trying to enforce and control, which truly is a terrifying goal for an antagonist.
This theme is also applicable for Saffron as she battles with her Maddox magic.
Unsure of its functioning, Saffron doesn't know if the magic is good, or evil like that of King Enric's. It causes a rift between her and Jaydra, and Jaydra must protect herself from being influenced by the king when Saffron uses her magic. There wasn't a conclusion to this issue, and assume it will be made clear in the sequel, Dragons of Dark.
⇒ Coming of age:
This story was largely centered around Bower, and him coming to terms with the fact that he is the rightful heir to the throne. Not only that, he has the ability to unite the dragons and humans once again. Throughout the entire story, he is seeking his worth, understanding, ability, and influence. Being one that loved to hit the books, he hadn't had any experience with leading others. It was a trait that he had to learn and develop for his own.
⇒ Unity/Coming Together:
Another underlying theme was bringing unity between the dragons and humans in order to fight King Enric. After a long time of having little-to-no ties, Bower must word in tandem with the dragons to gain their respect and trust, as well as be a good advocate for them to the humans.
Overall Feelings
Things that I liked:
⇒ The dragons and humans learning to work together.
⇒ The diversity of the dragons. This is more of a personal point, but I loved learning about all of the variations of dragons, and how different they are!
⇒ How clean of a read this is!
Things that I didn't like:
⇒ The plot pacing was a bit slow. I found myself having to reread areas because I became distracted and didn’t pay enough attention.
⇒ I still had some difficulty really engaging myself in the characters’ stories. I felt that they and several other aspects of the plot needed more depth.
While I really wanted to like this series more, I feel like there's an outstretched hand, halting my progression in immerse myself further. I'd like to get further into this world, but need more depth in the characters in order to do so. I'm hoping Dragons of Dark will fulfill my hopes for this series because I think it really has potential to be great!
Vulgarity: None.
Sexual content: None.
Violence: While there are several fight scenes, there is no gore.
My Rating: ★★★
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
See my FULL review of this book on my blog along with others at: shesgoingbookcrazy.com
Initially, I was slow to get back into this series, and remembering all of the details. I let far too much time pass from when I read Dragons of Wild, which is a shame. What I found when I jumped back into this world, however, was how much I appreciated this series. It’s clean, it has straight-forward intentions, the characters are wholesome, and it is a refreshing deviation from the typical YA fantasy read.
World Building
Dragons of Kings is set in the surrounding lands of Torvald. While there is detail given of the land, it is not in depth, and somewhat difficult to follow where the characters actually are. More of the world building comes into play when the reader is introduced to the Three-Rivers Clan, and see some of their perspectives, especially towards dragons.
Pacing & Readability
The pacing is moderate but remains consistent throughout the entire book. While this book is easy to read, I had a difficult time staying engaged with it as not a lot happened. The distance between "point A" to "point B" could be summed up in just a few sentences.
Point-of-View & Characters
The point-of-view remains the same as Dragons of Wild, and shifts between Saffron and Bower. The reader is privy to moderately deeper ruminations of the characters this time around. I felt that I got a better picture of Bower's character overall.
"I had been raised with books, not with battles."
For the first time, Bower is challenged by the dragons to see if he is worthy enough to be the dragon king. He knows he is the true heir to the throne, but struggles immensely with the responsibility that comes with it.
Saffron's character was rather flat in this sequel. While she has a few challenges thrown her way, her character didn't react as much as I would have expected in the situations. If it wasn't for Jaydra helping her along, I fear Saffron would be nearly unremarkable.
We are introduced to a few new characters (both dragons and humans) in this installment, but these too are barely explored. Ryland, the leader of the Three-Rivers clan is briefly introduced, then made into a petty criminal with his acts towards the black dragons.
King Enric, the antagonist of the series, is probably the most consistent character of all. I felt that as the villain, he delivered what was expected of him.
Major Themes
⇒ Good vs. Evil:
The battle between good and evil is the central theme through this series. Saffron and Bower, the representatives of good, fight against King Enric, an evil sorcerer king who has tried (and mostly succeeded) in wiping everyone's minds clean of dragons and history in general. As I stated in my review for Dragons of Wild, this series parallels Fahrenheit 451, in the idea that knowledge (books) are dangerous. This is exactly the world that King Enric is trying to enforce and control, which truly is a terrifying goal for an antagonist.
This theme is also applicable for Saffron as she battles with her Maddox magic.
"If it is magic for human and dragons to share a mind, is it magic that also breaks our ties? Or is it the lack of magic? And if there is a place where Jaydra and Saffron are one thing in our hearts and minds, is there also a place where Saffron and Enric are one?"
Unsure of its functioning, Saffron doesn't know if the magic is good, or evil like that of King Enric's. It causes a rift between her and Jaydra, and Jaydra must protect herself from being influenced by the king when Saffron uses her magic. There wasn't a conclusion to this issue, and assume it will be made clear in the sequel, Dragons of Dark.
⇒ Coming of age:
This story was largely centered around Bower, and him coming to terms with the fact that he is the rightful heir to the throne. Not only that, he has the ability to unite the dragons and humans once again. Throughout the entire story, he is seeking his worth, understanding, ability, and influence. Being one that loved to hit the books, he hadn't had any experience with leading others. It was a trait that he had to learn and develop for his own.
⇒ Unity/Coming Together:
Another underlying theme was bringing unity between the dragons and humans in order to fight King Enric. After a long time of having little-to-no ties, Bower must word in tandem with the dragons to gain their respect and trust, as well as be a good advocate for them to the humans.
Overall Feelings
Things that I liked:
⇒ The dragons and humans learning to work together.
⇒ The diversity of the dragons. This is more of a personal point, but I loved learning about all of the variations of dragons, and how different they are!
⇒ How clean of a read this is!
Things that I didn't like:
⇒ The plot pacing was a bit slow. I found myself having to reread areas because I became distracted and didn’t pay enough attention.
⇒ I still had some difficulty really engaging myself in the characters’ stories. I felt that they and several other aspects of the plot needed more depth.
While I really wanted to like this series more, I feel like there's an outstretched hand, halting my progression in immerse myself further. I'd like to get further into this world, but need more depth in the characters in order to do so. I'm hoping Dragons of Dark will fulfill my hopes for this series because I think it really has potential to be great!
Vulgarity: None.
Sexual content: None.
Violence: While there are several fight scenes, there is no gore.
My Rating: ★★★
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
December 14, 2018
Review coming soon
June 18, 2017
Bower, Saffron and Jaydra continue on their adventure to find out about what happened to the dragon riders of old, with a plan to build their own army against the evil king Enric of Torvald.
They come across a tribe of dragon riders led by a man named Ryland.
But things are not as they seem.
Can Bower become what he is destined to be?
And can Saffron fight against what’s written in her future?
The Bloggo
Things I liked: The characters! I was happy to meet them again in this book. It felt like coming back home. And we get to meet some more characters, all of whom I loved immensely.
The second thing I loved the most about this book was that THERE WERE SO MANY MORE DRAGONS! EHRMAGEERD! I had this HUGE smile plastered on my face every time I read a part with dragons and that was more than 3/4th of this book.
Things I disliked: Again, it was the plot. It was fairly slow and yet again all the good action was stored for the climax. And we didn’t see much of the evil king at all.
Don’t get me wrong, when I say that the plot was slow, I mean the main plot. The characters were constantly in motion and the book felt like an easy and fun read. Nothing too intense. But I just feel that it could be so much more.
Lots of love,
Raven
They come across a tribe of dragon riders led by a man named Ryland.
But things are not as they seem.
Can Bower become what he is destined to be?
And can Saffron fight against what’s written in her future?
The Bloggo
Things I liked: The characters! I was happy to meet them again in this book. It felt like coming back home. And we get to meet some more characters, all of whom I loved immensely.
The second thing I loved the most about this book was that THERE WERE SO MANY MORE DRAGONS! EHRMAGEERD! I had this HUGE smile plastered on my face every time I read a part with dragons and that was more than 3/4th of this book.
Things I disliked: Again, it was the plot. It was fairly slow and yet again all the good action was stored for the climax. And we didn’t see much of the evil king at all.
Don’t get me wrong, when I say that the plot was slow, I mean the main plot. The characters were constantly in motion and the book felt like an easy and fun read. Nothing too intense. But I just feel that it could be so much more.
Lots of love,
Raven
January 17, 2017
I'm so glad that I've loved the sequel too, maybe not as much as the first one but there were many parts that touched my gentle soul.
While in the first book I fell in love with the world building and the characters, in this books I fell more in love with the characters and world building but also... MORE DRAGONS! Like a LOT more and nothing pleases me more than dragons.
I read every part with a dragon in it with this huge ass smile on my face (which was like 95% of the book) that probably made me look like a weirdo but Ava Richardson is just a freaking amazing dragon writer.
Can't wait for Dragons of Dark to release this year!
While in the first book I fell in love with the world building and the characters, in this books I fell more in love with the characters and world building but also... MORE DRAGONS! Like a LOT more and nothing pleases me more than dragons.
I read every part with a dragon in it with this huge ass smile on my face (which was like 95% of the book) that probably made me look like a weirdo but Ava Richardson is just a freaking amazing dragon writer.
Can't wait for Dragons of Dark to release this year!
February 24, 2024
This is a great follow-up to the first book, more action, more dragons, and lots of secrets are about to be revealed in this epic dragon fantasy adventure. Ava Richardson has created a wonderful cast of characters, a magical world, a fantastic story, and I can't wait to read the final book in the series.
Dragons of Kings is the second book in the Upon Dragon's Breath Trilogy, and it just gets better as the story continues to grow, as does our two main characters, Saffron and Bower who are developing into the heroes they are being moulded to be to rid the evil from Torvold.
Ava Richardson writing is a pleasure to read. it's fast-paced, flows beautifully, and is easy to read. For any young reader, this series would be perfect for delving into fantasy for the first time. It has it all, amazing worldbuilding. The plot is brilliant, with lots of epic battles, magic, and big ass ferocious dragons.
In this book, King Hacon Maddox continues his evil holdover Torvold. But he has his sights set on Saffron and will use any means of luring her to his side. After Saffron learns of her heritage and where her magical powers come from, she refuses to be conned into his scheming and, in turn, uses her magic for evil.
Bower has learned that he is not just nobility, but the future King of Torvold and his ability to communicate with dragons grows stronger, leading him to convince humans and dragons alike to come together and end King Hacon Maddox reign of Tyranny once and for all.
A fun and enjoyable adventure. I highly recommend the series to anyone who loves dragon stories and heroes and of coming of age that keeps you turning pages right till the end...😁💙🔥🐲
Dragons of Kings is the second book in the Upon Dragon's Breath Trilogy, and it just gets better as the story continues to grow, as does our two main characters, Saffron and Bower who are developing into the heroes they are being moulded to be to rid the evil from Torvold.
Ava Richardson writing is a pleasure to read. it's fast-paced, flows beautifully, and is easy to read. For any young reader, this series would be perfect for delving into fantasy for the first time. It has it all, amazing worldbuilding. The plot is brilliant, with lots of epic battles, magic, and big ass ferocious dragons.
In this book, King Hacon Maddox continues his evil holdover Torvold. But he has his sights set on Saffron and will use any means of luring her to his side. After Saffron learns of her heritage and where her magical powers come from, she refuses to be conned into his scheming and, in turn, uses her magic for evil.
Bower has learned that he is not just nobility, but the future King of Torvold and his ability to communicate with dragons grows stronger, leading him to convince humans and dragons alike to come together and end King Hacon Maddox reign of Tyranny once and for all.
A fun and enjoyable adventure. I highly recommend the series to anyone who loves dragon stories and heroes and of coming of age that keeps you turning pages right till the end...😁💙🔥🐲
October 9, 2017
Gave another shot
Wow I do not know why I stopped after first book. I loved it and cannot wait to read book 3. Bower slowly learning his connection to dragons and Saffron almost killing them all. Evil king doesn't know when to die. Wish Bower had more time with a female dragon that chose him as her bond since he a king and Jaydra more of friend not bonded. I think he needs dragon queen for bonded partner. I wonder when Saffron will get control of her magic. So much has happened. So many beautiful dragons. Sad parts to. It a must read. I wonder what happened to Kalax and seb as only mention was Athea Flamma? I like to read more about south kingdom and how their bond goes and if one rider or 2. I want to know how bond is there and if it true bond and love. Well 3rd book here I come some point soon.
Wow I do not know why I stopped after first book. I loved it and cannot wait to read book 3. Bower slowly learning his connection to dragons and Saffron almost killing them all. Evil king doesn't know when to die. Wish Bower had more time with a female dragon that chose him as her bond since he a king and Jaydra more of friend not bonded. I think he needs dragon queen for bonded partner. I wonder when Saffron will get control of her magic. So much has happened. So many beautiful dragons. Sad parts to. It a must read. I wonder what happened to Kalax and seb as only mention was Athea Flamma? I like to read more about south kingdom and how their bond goes and if one rider or 2. I want to know how bond is there and if it true bond and love. Well 3rd book here I come some point soon.
February 7, 2023
Ich habe die Hörbuch-Version gehört und fand den Sprecher wieder sehr gut. Da ich diesen Band fast direkt im Anschluss an den ersten gehört habe, bin ich auch sehr gut wieder in die Geschichte gekommen.
In diesem Band ging es mehr um Bower, für meinen Geschmack kam Saffron etwas zu kurz. Sie hat mir im ersten Teil besser gefallen.
Ich hatte insgesamt das Gefühl, dass die Geschichte nicht so viel vorangekommen ist. Irgendwie hat mir ein wenig Handlung gefehlt und daher wirkte es auf mich wie ein typischer zweiter Teil.
Die Charaktere haben sich aber trotzdem weiterentwickelt und es gab auch ein paar neue Charaktere. Ryland(?) hat mir als Charakter nicht gut gefallen, aber König Enric war wieder ein guter Bösewicht.
Insgesamt fand ich den ersten Band zwar besser, bin aber trotzdem gespannt wie es weitergeht.
In diesem Band ging es mehr um Bower, für meinen Geschmack kam Saffron etwas zu kurz. Sie hat mir im ersten Teil besser gefallen.
Ich hatte insgesamt das Gefühl, dass die Geschichte nicht so viel vorangekommen ist. Irgendwie hat mir ein wenig Handlung gefehlt und daher wirkte es auf mich wie ein typischer zweiter Teil.
Die Charaktere haben sich aber trotzdem weiterentwickelt und es gab auch ein paar neue Charaktere. Ryland(?) hat mir als Charakter nicht gut gefallen, aber König Enric war wieder ein guter Bösewicht.
Insgesamt fand ich den ersten Band zwar besser, bin aber trotzdem gespannt wie es weitergeht.
September 19, 2024
Now the story gets interesting. The author creates very intricate worlds and ferocious battles. There is also plenty of dragons.
Bower now has to face his destiny and that is Torvald’s rightful king but he still doubts himself. Enric is still after Saffron and planning on ridding the world of dragons. The group now has to find more dragon riders so they went looking for the Three Rivers Tribe. Once they found them they discovered they did indeed have dragons but were horrified at their treatment. They were chained & collared. There was no bond of any kind with their riders. Ryland their leader challenged Bower. He said he wouldn't follow Bower until he passed a challenge. The challenge was to mount one of the wild chained dragons. Again Bower doubted himself but knew he had to do it if he had any hope of claiming the title of king. He would also have to unite the wild dragons with some riders if he had any hope to defeat Enric.
Bower now has to face his destiny and that is Torvald’s rightful king but he still doubts himself. Enric is still after Saffron and planning on ridding the world of dragons. The group now has to find more dragon riders so they went looking for the Three Rivers Tribe. Once they found them they discovered they did indeed have dragons but were horrified at their treatment. They were chained & collared. There was no bond of any kind with their riders. Ryland their leader challenged Bower. He said he wouldn't follow Bower until he passed a challenge. The challenge was to mount one of the wild chained dragons. Again Bower doubted himself but knew he had to do it if he had any hope of claiming the title of king. He would also have to unite the wild dragons with some riders if he had any hope to defeat Enric.
August 1, 2025
Dragons of Kings is incredible. The world building is absolutely incredible and I as fully immersed in this riveting tail of yet another generation fighting the evil that grips this land. The fact that Enric is still alive to torment the land and to try to blot dragons from the earth is just incredible. The power Enric weilds is both dangerous and fascinating. I love getting to know Bower and Saffron as they struggle to understand who and what they are with almost all knowledge has been scattered to the winds of time. I am amazed at their fire and grit as they stand against an insidious evil that threatens to wipe them out along with all dragon kind as a fallen kingdom must learn to fight anew. I can’t wait to listen to the next installment this was incredible and the narration is spot on bring this epic adventure to life! If you love dragons you will love this series!
May 13, 2017
Keeps getting better and better.....
Each book is better than the one before. All of our friends from before and a few new friends as well. King Enric is even stronger in magic than we knew. He desperately wants or maybe needs (?) Saffron's magic. Underneath his young handsome exterior he is an older shrunken husk. Is he perhaps the original King Hascon who first tumbled the kingdom of the Middle Kingdom? This and many more questions may be answered in the next exciting installment of this great series. Well written, action packed and engagingly stories of the return of dragons and their riders, you will find yourself hanging on every word as you are drawn deeper and deeper into the world that is the Middle Kingdom. Highly recommended.
Each book is better than the one before. All of our friends from before and a few new friends as well. King Enric is even stronger in magic than we knew. He desperately wants or maybe needs (?) Saffron's magic. Underneath his young handsome exterior he is an older shrunken husk. Is he perhaps the original King Hascon who first tumbled the kingdom of the Middle Kingdom? This and many more questions may be answered in the next exciting installment of this great series. Well written, action packed and engagingly stories of the return of dragons and their riders, you will find yourself hanging on every word as you are drawn deeper and deeper into the world that is the Middle Kingdom. Highly recommended.
April 7, 2018
Darkness, invades her mind.
Saffron can not escape Enric Maddox and the darkness he controls. Even in her sleep she must fight to resist his call. But Jaydra is the light she needs to win, but is she enough. Through her superb writing the author will let you she the end but only to take it away and leave another hole to be filled. It truly is excellent writing at its best.
Saffron can not escape Enric Maddox and the darkness he controls. Even in her sleep she must fight to resist his call. But Jaydra is the light she needs to win, but is she enough. Through her superb writing the author will let you she the end but only to take it away and leave another hole to be filled. It truly is excellent writing at its best.
August 18, 2021
Excellent and Enjoyable Read
What a great and Exciting as well. I look forward to continuing this series. The excitement and drama is so focused and is even better than the final battle of Game of Thrones. I just cannot wait until the future king can assume his true power along with his help mate and totally destroy the usurper.
What a great and Exciting as well. I look forward to continuing this series. The excitement and drama is so focused and is even better than the final battle of Game of Thrones. I just cannot wait until the future king can assume his true power along with his help mate and totally destroy the usurper.
February 5, 2018
Geat, powerful story
This was rivoting -you could not lay this story down. Excellent writing kept you interested and excited to know what would happen next. The characters, as in first book are enjoyable and some are quite special.
This was rivoting -you could not lay this story down. Excellent writing kept you interested and excited to know what would happen next. The characters, as in first book are enjoyable and some are quite special.
November 5, 2018
Saffron, Bower & Jaydra
Saffron struggles to control her magic. She and Bower leave the coastal islands to search for the Three Rivers Tribes and to find the other dragons.
Excellent characterization & plotting.
Saffron struggles to control her magic. She and Bower leave the coastal islands to search for the Three Rivers Tribes and to find the other dragons.
Excellent characterization & plotting.
March 19, 2020
What a tale!
This Book was exciting and full of adventures.The dragons take you on it's really ride of your life.You Get drawn into the scene as each character seams so real , my heart was in my throat!
This Book was exciting and full of adventures.The dragons take you on it's really ride of your life.You Get drawn into the scene as each character seams so real , my heart was in my throat!
October 28, 2021
Trilogy
I have found this trilogy very good, magic and dragons, false king and real king Bower, plus false king family includes Saffron, only she fights her family beside Bower, is it leading to a love story with king and queen ruling?
I have found this trilogy very good, magic and dragons, false king and real king Bower, plus false king family includes Saffron, only she fights her family beside Bower, is it leading to a love story with king and queen ruling?
July 2, 2022
It was an enjoyable read I just thought the ending could’ve been better. The fight at the end of the book could’ve been delayed to the next book and the dude didn’t need to die. I was looking forward to his character arc with his dragon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2017
Excellent
Very powerful story about a coming of age and responsibility. Can't wait to start book 3.this book does not really have an end just the end of a chapter.
Very powerful story about a coming of age and responsibility. Can't wait to start book 3.this book does not really have an end just the end of a chapter.
January 22, 2018
Great story
I have been enjoying this series very much like I can pass on to my grandson without sorry they are full of adult content. Love the characters.
I have been enjoying this series very much like I can pass on to my grandson without sorry they are full of adult content. Love the characters.
April 17, 2019
Epic Dragon adventure
The characters are complex and heroic. The dragons are fierce and loyal as well as extremely intelligent. Epic battles. Loved it.
The characters are complex and heroic. The dragons are fierce and loyal as well as extremely intelligent. Epic battles. Loved it.
January 17, 2021
Good follow up
This book was good, I felt there were questions unanswered but perhaps in the next book they will be. This author is quite talented
This book was good, I felt there were questions unanswered but perhaps in the next book they will be. This author is quite talented
June 19, 2021
Dragons of Kings
Dragons of kings.
Thoroughly enjoyed the first two volumes so far and am looking forward to the last book, Saffron, Bower, and Jaydra make a good combination.
Dragons of kings.
Thoroughly enjoyed the first two volumes so far and am looking forward to the last book, Saffron, Bower, and Jaydra make a good combination.
January 6, 2022
Loving this series. The characters are well written and polt keeps going.
November 10, 2025
Nice
This was a good follow up to the first book and def left me wanting more. On to the next one!
This was a good follow up to the first book and def left me wanting more. On to the next one!
December 18, 2025
Maddox magic hast to have a better name
Her dragon can tell the difference. Should be a great story how the magic got there and why it releases during emotional moments.
Her dragon can tell the difference. Should be a great story how the magic got there and why it releases during emotional moments.
April 28, 2018
Original Review Here
This is the second trilogy I’ve read by Ava Richardson and I noticed there is a pattern to her writing. Once again, one of the characters becomes significantly more powerful in the second book; cramming the lack of development in the first book into the second.
If I’m right, the third book will have the same happen to the other character.
It’s not a bad thing: I have fun reading her books. I’m wish the characters can learn and develop together rather than leapfrogging each other, that’s all.
After the revelation at the end of the last book, Bower must accept who he is and what it means to be king. But he is far from kingly material when it comes to physical activities. What he does have, however, is his mind and Bower is able to connect to people in a way Saffron can’t understand. It’s entertaining seeing bookworm-Bower realising that perhaps he does have what it takes to be king, despite his crippling self-doubts.
Bower’s development is about more than becoming a king: he has the dragon affinity. He can connect to the dragons and communicate with them. The dragon affinity is how Bower suddenly becomes powerful enough to save the day: he tries it and calls to him all the dragons everyone else (including him) believe to be extinct.
Saffron develops throughout the second book – she stops herself from losing control of her magic and even has a semblance of control on more than one occasion. But her progress is slow and I get the feeling the third book is going to be about her controlling her magic. Saffron’s story hasn’t yet been told, not compared to how Bower grows this time.
There are a lot more dragons this time around – which I loved. You get to know Jaydra more as her connection with Saffron deepens further and she is also able to communicate with Bower. But she is just one of many: the legendary Crimson Reds make a reappearance, as do the wild blacks. Having read the first trilogy, this perhaps has more of an effect than if you hadn’t – you understand the history behind these dragons.
As both Saffron and Bower (to an extent) can understand the dragons, you also get far more of their behaviour and what it means. Personally, I found that added another level to the book and I enjoyed it.
The pacing and tension are much stronger this time around. Clashes with Enric’s forces happen throughout the book and there is a feeling of urgency throughout. This made Dragons of Kings more engaging compared to the first book; it feels like the plot is consistently moving forward rather than a sudden bombshell at the end.
Another easy and enjoyable read if you like fantasy books and dragons. The switching first person narration meant it took me until this book to really start to like the characters, but there is development and potential there and I look forward to finishing the series.
This is the second trilogy I’ve read by Ava Richardson and I noticed there is a pattern to her writing. Once again, one of the characters becomes significantly more powerful in the second book; cramming the lack of development in the first book into the second.
If I’m right, the third book will have the same happen to the other character.
It’s not a bad thing: I have fun reading her books. I’m wish the characters can learn and develop together rather than leapfrogging each other, that’s all.
After the revelation at the end of the last book, Bower must accept who he is and what it means to be king. But he is far from kingly material when it comes to physical activities. What he does have, however, is his mind and Bower is able to connect to people in a way Saffron can’t understand. It’s entertaining seeing bookworm-Bower realising that perhaps he does have what it takes to be king, despite his crippling self-doubts.
Bower’s development is about more than becoming a king: he has the dragon affinity. He can connect to the dragons and communicate with them. The dragon affinity is how Bower suddenly becomes powerful enough to save the day: he tries it and calls to him all the dragons everyone else (including him) believe to be extinct.
Saffron develops throughout the second book – she stops herself from losing control of her magic and even has a semblance of control on more than one occasion. But her progress is slow and I get the feeling the third book is going to be about her controlling her magic. Saffron’s story hasn’t yet been told, not compared to how Bower grows this time.
There are a lot more dragons this time around – which I loved. You get to know Jaydra more as her connection with Saffron deepens further and she is also able to communicate with Bower. But she is just one of many: the legendary Crimson Reds make a reappearance, as do the wild blacks. Having read the first trilogy, this perhaps has more of an effect than if you hadn’t – you understand the history behind these dragons.
As both Saffron and Bower (to an extent) can understand the dragons, you also get far more of their behaviour and what it means. Personally, I found that added another level to the book and I enjoyed it.
The pacing and tension are much stronger this time around. Clashes with Enric’s forces happen throughout the book and there is a feeling of urgency throughout. This made Dragons of Kings more engaging compared to the first book; it feels like the plot is consistently moving forward rather than a sudden bombshell at the end.
Another easy and enjoyable read if you like fantasy books and dragons. The switching first person narration meant it took me until this book to really start to like the characters, but there is development and potential there and I look forward to finishing the series.
January 2, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This book was a good read but you need to read the first book in the series to understand what is happening. The author again writes well and with good details. The author alternates between the first points of view of Saffron and Bower. The book picks up where the first book left off.
Saffron, Jaydra, and Bower have escaped from Enric. They return to the island where Saffron is training Bower. She gets frustrated with him at times. Bower and Saffron are together throughout the novel. Saffron also realizes she needs to gain control over her magical abilities and Bower needs to realize that he is the dragon-king, that the dragons will listen to him. They both need to harness their abilities in order to defeat Enric and rebuild the relationships between dragons and humans. Enric finds them at the island and will kill anyone who gets in his way. This forces Saffron and Bower to flee and seek other dragons at the three rivers. The other dragons need to leave the island due to Enric's iron warriors. The dragons want Bower to prove he can get the humans and dragons to work together. As the story progresses, Bower is able to grow and realize what he needs to do to save the kingdom. Saffron and Bower have many obstacles to overcome. As they travel to their destination, they encounter Ryland, who leads his people and captures dragons. Saffron and Jaydra have difficulty communicating with these black dragons, who despise the humans that imprisoned them. Bower is able to convince Ryland and his council to release them, after showing his ability to call dragons when he needs their aid. Enric still keeps sending his iron warriors and tries to get Saffron. He comes close a few times, but Bower and Jaydra help to keep Saffron from him. Enric finds them once again and they once again have to flee, but not without consequences. Saffron and Bower realize they must end Enric's reign and restore the trust dragons and humans once had. I cannot wait to end the next novel!!
This book was a good read but you need to read the first book in the series to understand what is happening. The author again writes well and with good details. The author alternates between the first points of view of Saffron and Bower. The book picks up where the first book left off.
Saffron, Jaydra, and Bower have escaped from Enric. They return to the island where Saffron is training Bower. She gets frustrated with him at times. Bower and Saffron are together throughout the novel. Saffron also realizes she needs to gain control over her magical abilities and Bower needs to realize that he is the dragon-king, that the dragons will listen to him. They both need to harness their abilities in order to defeat Enric and rebuild the relationships between dragons and humans. Enric finds them at the island and will kill anyone who gets in his way. This forces Saffron and Bower to flee and seek other dragons at the three rivers. The other dragons need to leave the island due to Enric's iron warriors. The dragons want Bower to prove he can get the humans and dragons to work together. As the story progresses, Bower is able to grow and realize what he needs to do to save the kingdom. Saffron and Bower have many obstacles to overcome. As they travel to their destination, they encounter Ryland, who leads his people and captures dragons. Saffron and Jaydra have difficulty communicating with these black dragons, who despise the humans that imprisoned them. Bower is able to convince Ryland and his council to release them, after showing his ability to call dragons when he needs their aid. Enric still keeps sending his iron warriors and tries to get Saffron. He comes close a few times, but Bower and Jaydra help to keep Saffron from him. Enric finds them once again and they once again have to flee, but not without consequences. Saffron and Bower realize they must end Enric's reign and restore the trust dragons and humans once had. I cannot wait to end the next novel!!
February 18, 2017
This series is outstanding! It is an excellent story with very interesting and loveable characters. The is well thought out and flows well, holding your interest throughout the book. I couldn't put it down once I got through the first chapter. I recommend this book for Dragon story lovers, It has alot of action with dragons being involed. Great Reading Everyone!!!
January 20, 2017
Quick death airmail no stamp needed
This was a great adventure, from the tropical islands to the mainland across to the northern back country. This book had a horrendous amount of action, excitement and suspense thrown in and very will distributed in this superb Dragon story.
This was a great adventure, from the tropical islands to the mainland across to the northern back country. This book had a horrendous amount of action, excitement and suspense thrown in and very will distributed in this superb Dragon story.
April 3, 2017
Epic tale of heroism in unexpected places
I really enjoy Ms Richardson's tales of magic, dragons and deeds of strength and courage out of the unexpected people, animals and the ethereal. Clean, exciting and adventurous.
I really enjoy Ms Richardson's tales of magic, dragons and deeds of strength and courage out of the unexpected people, animals and the ethereal. Clean, exciting and adventurous.
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