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The Unwanteds Quests #1
Dragon Captives
Limited collector's edition of The Unwanteds Quests Book 1: Dragon Captives featuring an exclusive short story set between the events of the final book in the Unwanteds series and this title in the new sequel series, revealing key details about new characters as well as showing a major moment for Aaron Stowe!
Unknown Binding
First published February 7, 2017
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4428 people want to read
About the author
Lisa McMann
60 books6,997 followersLisa McMann lives and writes in the Phoenix area. Her newest middle grade fantasy series is called The Forgotten Five. Book one, Map of Flames, was an instant NYT bestseller. It's about five supernatural kids, raised in a deserted hideout, who enter civilization for the first time to search for a hidden stash left behind by their missing, criminal parents.
Book two, The Invisible Spy, is on sale now! Book three, Rebel Undercover, is coming summer 2023, and book 4 will be out in spring of 2024.
Also out now: CLARICE THE BRAVE. It's a story of hope against all odds, about sibling mice who get separated in a mutiny and vow to find one another again.
Lisa's other books include the NYT bestselling THE UNWANTEDS and UNWANTEDS QUESTS series, the GOING WILD trilogy, the YA paranormal WAKE trilogy, the VISIONS trilogy, CRYER'S CROSS, DEAD TO YOU, and INFINITY RING: The Trap Door.
See what's new and where Lisa will be at her
LinkTree.
You can find more info at Lisa'a website, lisamcmann.com, interact with her on Facebook or Twitter, or ask questions on her Instagram.
Book two, The Invisible Spy, is on sale now! Book three, Rebel Undercover, is coming summer 2023, and book 4 will be out in spring of 2024.
Also out now: CLARICE THE BRAVE. It's a story of hope against all odds, about sibling mice who get separated in a mutiny and vow to find one another again.
Lisa's other books include the NYT bestselling THE UNWANTEDS and UNWANTEDS QUESTS series, the GOING WILD trilogy, the YA paranormal WAKE trilogy, the VISIONS trilogy, CRYER'S CROSS, DEAD TO YOU, and INFINITY RING: The Trap Door.
See what's new and where Lisa will be at her
LinkTree.
You can find more info at Lisa'a website, lisamcmann.com, interact with her on Facebook or Twitter, or ask questions on her Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
December 16, 2019
I can't say I cared too much for this one. I listened to the audiobook, and didn't like the narration. Seth and his mom had different accents, and it seemed like all the characters who did bad things were given Indian accents. Simber's weird southern accent sounded very much out of place. Story wise, it didn't really grab me at all. The kids repetitively complained about not getting the proper magic lessons, and their older brother Alex was annoying. It made zero sense for him to refuse to give the twins lessons in magic, but yet get angry when they didn't have control over their magic because they weren't taught.
September 11, 2023
5/5
Date Reviewed: 18 March 2017
This Review was first posted on It’s All Anthony. For more reviews, check out the blog here.
It was really nice to venture back into this word that I have loved from the very beginning and to see all the characters again after a 10 year jump after the original series ended. It was like things never changed (except for the characters aging up and such). Everything was the same as before. However, we can see how some characters have changed over time and that is what I liked about it in the first place. The characters were still themselves, but their selves has been changed bits by bits and you can see how they have matured overtime.
In the new series, Thisbe and Fifer have grown up to be around 12 years old and want to start practicing magic. However, their magic is way to powerful and no one has a single clue how to control them, not even their older brother and head mage, Alex. Since the twins can't control their magic, Alex doesn't want them to use magic at all and prevents them from using it at all costs as trouble always happens when one does use magic. They sneak through an opportunity to go on an adventure like the stories Alex always told them he went on. The only thing though is that Alex didn't approve of this adventure to save some dragons and of course, trouble follows. In this adventure, Thisbe and Fifer figure out how to save the dragons while trying to survive this new land where they are being wanted. Previous characters do have a role in the story as well in attempt to rescue the twins as well, but being in the world of Artimé, not everything goes a planned.
In the story, as the adventure continues, it only reminds me of the adventures Alex and the original Unwanteds went on. It was like having a case of nostalgia and reading this for the first time again. Except that Thisbe and Fifer's adventure have new twists and a new world building was given as they explore a new land. Since most of the other islands are discovered, I would imagine that each book is not going to be about new islands. My only guess is that some books will stay in the Land of Dragons while others may revisit previously discovered islands when new problems occurs. The ending of this book already hinted a revisit to an island previously hinted when something happens that you would call a cliff-hanger. (Why Lisa, just why??) As always, the creativity put into this world and into the story is always to the max. I am never disappointed by the amount of effort the author tries to create. It is always vivid and easily imagined.
There was a part in the story that got me thinking something. Did Lisa McMann really write the original stories, or were the books secretly written as if a character wrote them? Check the following quote:
Do you see the connection? A story that was written into 7 volumes in all. 7 VOLUMES. This got me thinking. So it took Lani 7 volumes to write out the adventures after every shared their point of views and such. The original series was written into a series of 7 books. See it now? 7 Volumes = 7 Books? So did Lisa McMann write the series as it was written by Lani? What could this mean? I definitely want answers on this. LISA MCMANN, IF YOU SEE THIS, YOU MUST ANSWER!
Overall, if you want to read this series, I highly suggest to read the original series first. It would give you a complete understanding of everything that goes on this this series and how everything came to be what it is now.
Date Reviewed: 18 March 2017
This Review was first posted on It’s All Anthony. For more reviews, check out the blog here.
"'Where are we going?' whispered Seth.
Thisbe glanced sidelong at him, her backpack jouncing on her back. She flashed a mischievous grin. 'We're going to rescue the young dragons.'"
It was really nice to venture back into this word that I have loved from the very beginning and to see all the characters again after a 10 year jump after the original series ended. It was like things never changed (except for the characters aging up and such). Everything was the same as before. However, we can see how some characters have changed over time and that is what I liked about it in the first place. The characters were still themselves, but their selves has been changed bits by bits and you can see how they have matured overtime.
In the new series, Thisbe and Fifer have grown up to be around 12 years old and want to start practicing magic. However, their magic is way to powerful and no one has a single clue how to control them, not even their older brother and head mage, Alex. Since the twins can't control their magic, Alex doesn't want them to use magic at all and prevents them from using it at all costs as trouble always happens when one does use magic. They sneak through an opportunity to go on an adventure like the stories Alex always told them he went on. The only thing though is that Alex didn't approve of this adventure to save some dragons and of course, trouble follows. In this adventure, Thisbe and Fifer figure out how to save the dragons while trying to survive this new land where they are being wanted. Previous characters do have a role in the story as well in attempt to rescue the twins as well, but being in the world of Artimé, not everything goes a planned.
In the story, as the adventure continues, it only reminds me of the adventures Alex and the original Unwanteds went on. It was like having a case of nostalgia and reading this for the first time again. Except that Thisbe and Fifer's adventure have new twists and a new world building was given as they explore a new land. Since most of the other islands are discovered, I would imagine that each book is not going to be about new islands. My only guess is that some books will stay in the Land of Dragons while others may revisit previously discovered islands when new problems occurs. The ending of this book already hinted a revisit to an island previously hinted when something happens that you would call a cliff-hanger. (Why Lisa, just why??) As always, the creativity put into this world and into the story is always to the max. I am never disappointed by the amount of effort the author tries to create. It is always vivid and easily imagined.
There was a part in the story that got me thinking something. Did Lisa McMann really write the original stories, or were the books secretly written as if a character wrote them? Check the following quote:
"A story that would take weeks or months to tell in full, and which Lani had taken great care to write down in the years following --seven volumes worth in all."
Do you see the connection? A story that was written into 7 volumes in all. 7 VOLUMES. This got me thinking. So it took Lani 7 volumes to write out the adventures after every shared their point of views and such. The original series was written into a series of 7 books. See it now? 7 Volumes = 7 Books? So did Lisa McMann write the series as it was written by Lani? What could this mean? I definitely want answers on this. LISA MCMANN, IF YOU SEE THIS, YOU MUST ANSWER!
Overall, if you want to read this series, I highly suggest to read the original series first. It would give you a complete understanding of everything that goes on this this series and how everything came to be what it is now.
October 4, 2016
This is a fabulous spinoff to The Unwanted series. Fans of The Unwanteds will love it and it can be easily read and followed by readers who have not read the original series.
July 29, 2021
Y’all. This book physically hurt me to read.
For those of you who’ve read the original Unwanteds series, and enjoyed it, then this book DEFINITELY isn’t for you. Alex Stowe’s character in this drove me insane, and I didn’t really care for the depiction of the other characters either. I really don’t believe that this is how anything would’ve happened, based on the character portrayals in the first series.
All in all, if you want to try it, go ahead. Just be prepared for pain.
For those of you who’ve read the original Unwanteds series, and enjoyed it, then this book DEFINITELY isn’t for you. Alex Stowe’s character in this drove me insane, and I didn’t really care for the depiction of the other characters either. I really don’t believe that this is how anything would’ve happened, based on the character portrayals in the first series.
All in all, if you want to try it, go ahead. Just be prepared for pain.
March 7, 2017
When Thisbe and Fifer sneak out another time they stop the manically scorpion after almost getting killed by it this pushes Alex over his limit. Finally when the one of the dragon baby's come to the magical land of Artime Thisbe, Fifer set out to fix the wing and set the dragons free of a magic villain will they survive will they die... read the book to find out. This book made me feel so drawn in. If you have read the Unwanted Series you will LOVE this book.
September 21, 2019
So... this was definitely better before it had a sequel series.
October 4, 2019
Ruined the UnWanteds Series!
June 11, 2018
This book had a very interesting concept which intrigued me. Also, I love dragons! I went in thinking that this book was going to be awesome. Sadly, it was not as great as I was expecting. Thisbe and Fifer are two twin girls with magical powers. They are Alex and Aaron's sisters, whom the first series of books (The Unwanteds) follows. However, they are unable to control these powers. More than anything, they want to join Magical Warrior Training so they can learn how to control their powers. However, their brother Alex, the worrywart, won't let them join because he fears for everyone's safety. He doesn't want anything bad to happen to anyone, as the twin girls powers are unpredictable. Especially Thisbe, because her powers are especially very dangerous because she can shoot lightning from her eyes and kill anything living instantly. For example, she killed an evil villain when she was two and she had accidentally hurt Alex before. Thankfully, he survived the incident. Thisbe, Fifer and their friend Seth go on a dangerous quest, despite the adults wishes, to help save the dragon population. Not only was this a stupid thing to do, but they don't even know how to perform the magic to do it! The adventure was truly a wild ride.
Another thing that really annoyed me was how the magical cheetah, Simber speaks. He drags out every 's' in every sentence and he speakssssss like thissssssss. Incredibly annoying! I'm glad he wasn't in the book that much. I'm not sure I could read the first Unwanteds series now because of him. I know he's in that series more, as he's one of Alex's closest friends.
The bonus Barnes & Noble exclusive story about Kaylee & Aaron's and Lani & Samheed's double wedding was adorable, even despite the dark twist. I don't really know the characters from the first series that well, having not read it, but I enjoyed it anyway.
Also, that cliffhanger at the end though! It makes me want to read the second book. I might check it out eventually, but its definitely not top of my TBR list.
I think I honestly would have enjoyed this book more if I were a kid and grew up with this series, or if I had read the first series beforehand.
Another thing that really annoyed me was how the magical cheetah, Simber speaks. He drags out every 's' in every sentence and he speakssssss like thissssssss. Incredibly annoying! I'm glad he wasn't in the book that much. I'm not sure I could read the first Unwanteds series now because of him. I know he's in that series more, as he's one of Alex's closest friends.
The bonus Barnes & Noble exclusive story about Kaylee & Aaron's and Lani & Samheed's double wedding was adorable, even despite the dark twist. I don't really know the characters from the first series that well, having not read it, but I enjoyed it anyway.
Also, that cliffhanger at the end though! It makes me want to read the second book. I might check it out eventually, but its definitely not top of my TBR list.
I think I honestly would have enjoyed this book more if I were a kid and grew up with this series, or if I had read the first series beforehand.
April 9, 2024
I like the OG Unwanteds series better, this one is about their siblings and kind of the next generation, it just went really slow for me, She killed off quite a few characters and that kind of made me stop reading. This one was more of a fantasy than the first series more dream like stuff.
December 31, 2025
The story continues beautifully!!! I can’t wait to get started on the second book.
March 6, 2019
Something about this book just felt... incorrect to me. I know it can be hard to establish new characters in a new series, especially if it's including developed characters from a past series. But the problem with this book is, not only did the main characters feel flat and unlikeable but so did some of the past characters (and by some, I really just mean Alex). My problem with the new protagonists, Thisbe and Fifer, is that they were just plain unlikeable. Maybe I've just reached a point where I've grown past this series and I can't be as empathetic towards misguided twelve-year-olds, but their reasoning for everything they do in the story is bad. If they have good reasoning, then they're never able to think ahead at all. Like when Thisbe and Fifer are gathering vines so they can make new wings for the dragons, but don't bring anything else, even though they know they need flower petals and cloth too. Were they just planning on finding this stuff at the Land of Dragons?
Also, I have a bone to pick with Alex in this book. You can not possibly tell me that Alex Stowe would prevent his little sisters from learning magic, and believe that this is for the best. It just doesn't fit with his character. The Alex in this book is pitiful. Was there any good reasoning for why he cut Thisbe and Fifer off from practicing magic or did I miss that?
The only times I really enjoyed reading this book was in the scenes with Seth only. Whenever he was with Thisbe and Fifer, there was always a little bit of pity surrounding their exchanges, as if the girls felt bad that Seth wasn't as naturally talented with magic as they were and that he couldn't really do anything. It was mentioned multiple times as well that he had to be careful not to upset the girls otherwise they might lose their temper and, I don't know, kill him with their magic? Not exactly the best foundation for a healthy friendship. But when Seth is on his own, it's great to see him achieve more than he thought possible, like when he managed to make the dragon wings come to live. When he's around the girls, he's often discouraged, which makes me wish he would stand up for himself a bit more, or that the girls would actually realize he has some worth (remember how Thisbe and Fifer basically just invited him on this adventure because he had components and they needed some?)
I've been reading this series since the first Unwanteds book came out (around 7 years ago or something?) and with the start of this new series, I think it's time I stop reading. Maybe I've just outgrown this story, maybe it just isn't as good as it used to be; who knows. Either way, I'm done.
Also, I have a bone to pick with Alex in this book. You can not possibly tell me that Alex Stowe would prevent his little sisters from learning magic, and believe that this is for the best. It just doesn't fit with his character. The Alex in this book is pitiful. Was there any good reasoning for why he cut Thisbe and Fifer off from practicing magic or did I miss that?
The only times I really enjoyed reading this book was in the scenes with Seth only. Whenever he was with Thisbe and Fifer, there was always a little bit of pity surrounding their exchanges, as if the girls felt bad that Seth wasn't as naturally talented with magic as they were and that he couldn't really do anything. It was mentioned multiple times as well that he had to be careful not to upset the girls otherwise they might lose their temper and, I don't know, kill him with their magic? Not exactly the best foundation for a healthy friendship. But when Seth is on his own, it's great to see him achieve more than he thought possible, like when he managed to make the dragon wings come to live. When he's around the girls, he's often discouraged, which makes me wish he would stand up for himself a bit more, or that the girls would actually realize he has some worth (remember how Thisbe and Fifer basically just invited him on this adventure because he had components and they needed some?)
I've been reading this series since the first Unwanteds book came out (around 7 years ago or something?) and with the start of this new series, I think it's time I stop reading. Maybe I've just outgrown this story, maybe it just isn't as good as it used to be; who knows. Either way, I'm done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2020
THIS BOOK IS ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC, I LOVE IT SOO MUCH!!
THE CHARACTERS, THE NEW ADVENTURES THE NEW WORLD, HORRIFYING SCENES, CHLIFFHANGER OMG
the story follows the Alex and Aaron twin sisters Thisbe and Fifer. THE ARE FANTASTIC. Thisbe (named by mr appleblossom by a play) has a fire personality, is dramatic, musical and the brave fighter who speaks her mind and a bit witty, where as Fifer is more reserved and kind, shy and insecure. (Named after the Fig jam by claire)They have dangerous uncontrollable powers, especially Thisbe who can kill thkngs when she is extremely angry. So it happens that when the girls wander through the jungle they get attacked by the scorpion, one of mr today's misfits. The girls are not aloud to use magic components for their power is to destructive. Therefore they can't defend themselves. Fortunately Panther appears, but Thisbe accidentally destroys Panther by trying to attack the scorpion!! The girls are shocked, Simber gets them out of the jungle and brings them to Alex. 10 years have pst since thr horrifying battle, after the event much has changed, Quill and Artimé live in peace, the world is rebuild, Sean and Carina are finally togther and have a daughter and son, sky and scarlet help copper on the Island of fire with the volcano and sail to Warbler Island, Henry and Thatcher are guardians of the new Unwanteds. However for Alex, he is now 27. He has changed from a powerful fearless strong leader to a cautious, weaker, overprotective brother/father figure for all he has endured... it's soo sad to say this change. He has been through soo much when he was just a kid... the scene between him and the twins is really sad, he gets mad because this kind of event has happend many times Eventhough the girls can't help it. Alex has protected every Artimean from the girls power and the twins are to young and irresponsible for magic warrior training. But how the girls long to learn magic... the artimeans tell the story (which lani wrote in 7 books) of all the events, so the reader is refreshed.
Later a ice blue dragon named Hux arrives. They expected a visit sooner or later for their wings would be to small and they need new ones. Hux indeed requests for bigger wings for 5 dragons, but there is a major problem for the five dragons are slaves to the Revinir and only he was able to fly to get Alex so he can make new wings, because if the dragon's are no longer able to fly they will be KILLED!!
But Alex is unable to do magic with his useless hand and arm and he can't risk it... the twins would be alone and he won't have them lose him for he has lost soo much... I understand him but at the same time the dragon's will have no chance... THE DILEMMA
The girls have visited Aaron on the Island of Shipwrecks, he has changed from a evil boy to a loving brother and FATHER, he and Kaylee have a son named Daniel!! He has fixed Panther and came to Artimé to help Alex, but he can't risk it either... they are able to make wings, but can't make the journey...
So now Thisbe desides to help the dragons themselves for they want an adventure like their brothers had and want to prove to do something good with their magic.
They sneak out with seth (carina's son) to go on the journey on Hux but without bigger wings the journey is dangerous and difficult. They must fly over the waterfall at the end of the world that splits the world in two. Seth almost falls off the dragon but the vines saves him. After the thrilling journey they collapse agains the wall of the cliff. Dragon Island named the cliffs of Grimere in the Land of the Dragon's
Meanwhile in Artimé Carina, sean, Alex, Simber now know that the children and dragon have disappeared so Carina and Thatcher go after them on Simber. Pan gives Simber the secret place and they go on journey
Thisbe and Fifer find the journey very hard and difficult not at all what they expected. They go searching for food and water so they abandon Hux and Seth. They go to the flee market where they are ambushed by men who call Thisbe a thief and want to sell them. A boy and girl approach them but don't free them. Thisbe uses her magic to make the prosin bamboo bars alive, but they change into a monster, so the girls are free but again in danger. Seth came looking for them and is attacked by the bars. The girls manage to free him and go on the run back to the mountain but Hux has disappeared...
Later when the girls and seth go searching for water the boy named Dev meets them again. He tells the girls that their black eyes are important and a trade mark for the auction. They cut the hair of a thief so that's why everyone thinks thisbe is a thief for her hair is short. Dec is arrogant and mysterious. He is their guide through the land and searching for materials too. Thisbe saved him from a gigantic snake. at a night Hux appears and they continue the journey to search for materials for the wings. Then a cry from Arabis is heard and the must go to the castle immediately. There they meet the princess who was the same girl of the market. Dev is her servant and friend. Thisbee and Fifer can't make the wings for they don't have enough material. Thisbee is dragged away because she is a thief in their eyes. Fifer and Seth must make the wings or else... the dragons are in the dungen. Thisbee meets a old woman Maive and Dev brings food, he betrayed them so he would get gold. Carina and Thatcher are prisoners too and they meet each other again. Seth and Fifer fight, but fifer at last is able to extend the wings. Seth has the idea to set the eat timers at the same time so the dragons are free at the same time and can escape, but Drunx is stubble and won't have his wing fixed. Seth is freed because he has 'normal' eyes. Simber saves him and they are going to save thisbee Fifer and the Dragons, Fifer is forced to the auction Dragonsmarche and so is Thisbee. seth calms Drunx and is able to fix his wings just in time, the dragons escape and fire away. Carina and seth go on Arabis back to Artimé with the 4 dragons and the rest go save the girls. The twins are in a prison again to be sold. The former leaders had black eyes and fought for the dragons freedom, but they lost so now all black eyed people are being sold as slaves so is Dev!! Simber comes to the rescue, but shatterd the glasswall made by thisbee and Fifer lost conscious!! But then the Revinir appears and takes Thisbee away!! Simber takes Fifer away but can't go after Thisbee... Dev saved Fifer by taking the glass out and helping with her wounds. they fly to warbler island where await more devastating news for the island has sunk due the volcano and SKY IS GONE LOST AT SEA!! AND THEY MUST GO BACK TO ARTIMÉ TO TELL ALL THIS TO ALEX!!!
Thisbee is in the catacombs WITH BONES!! WHATTT
OMG I CAN'T WAIT TO READ THE NEXT BOOK THIS WAS PHENOMENAL!!
THE CHARACTERS, THE NEW ADVENTURES THE NEW WORLD, HORRIFYING SCENES, CHLIFFHANGER OMG
the story follows the Alex and Aaron twin sisters Thisbe and Fifer. THE ARE FANTASTIC. Thisbe (named by mr appleblossom by a play) has a fire personality, is dramatic, musical and the brave fighter who speaks her mind and a bit witty, where as Fifer is more reserved and kind, shy and insecure. (Named after the Fig jam by claire)They have dangerous uncontrollable powers, especially Thisbe who can kill thkngs when she is extremely angry. So it happens that when the girls wander through the jungle they get attacked by the scorpion, one of mr today's misfits. The girls are not aloud to use magic components for their power is to destructive. Therefore they can't defend themselves. Fortunately Panther appears, but Thisbe accidentally destroys Panther by trying to attack the scorpion!! The girls are shocked, Simber gets them out of the jungle and brings them to Alex. 10 years have pst since thr horrifying battle, after the event much has changed, Quill and Artimé live in peace, the world is rebuild, Sean and Carina are finally togther and have a daughter and son, sky and scarlet help copper on the Island of fire with the volcano and sail to Warbler Island, Henry and Thatcher are guardians of the new Unwanteds. However for Alex, he is now 27. He has changed from a powerful fearless strong leader to a cautious, weaker, overprotective brother/father figure for all he has endured... it's soo sad to say this change. He has been through soo much when he was just a kid... the scene between him and the twins is really sad, he gets mad because this kind of event has happend many times Eventhough the girls can't help it. Alex has protected every Artimean from the girls power and the twins are to young and irresponsible for magic warrior training. But how the girls long to learn magic... the artimeans tell the story (which lani wrote in 7 books) of all the events, so the reader is refreshed.
Later a ice blue dragon named Hux arrives. They expected a visit sooner or later for their wings would be to small and they need new ones. Hux indeed requests for bigger wings for 5 dragons, but there is a major problem for the five dragons are slaves to the Revinir and only he was able to fly to get Alex so he can make new wings, because if the dragon's are no longer able to fly they will be KILLED!!
But Alex is unable to do magic with his useless hand and arm and he can't risk it... the twins would be alone and he won't have them lose him for he has lost soo much... I understand him but at the same time the dragon's will have no chance... THE DILEMMA
The girls have visited Aaron on the Island of Shipwrecks, he has changed from a evil boy to a loving brother and FATHER, he and Kaylee have a son named Daniel!! He has fixed Panther and came to Artimé to help Alex, but he can't risk it either... they are able to make wings, but can't make the journey...
So now Thisbe desides to help the dragons themselves for they want an adventure like their brothers had and want to prove to do something good with their magic.
They sneak out with seth (carina's son) to go on the journey on Hux but without bigger wings the journey is dangerous and difficult. They must fly over the waterfall at the end of the world that splits the world in two. Seth almost falls off the dragon but the vines saves him. After the thrilling journey they collapse agains the wall of the cliff. Dragon Island named the cliffs of Grimere in the Land of the Dragon's
Meanwhile in Artimé Carina, sean, Alex, Simber now know that the children and dragon have disappeared so Carina and Thatcher go after them on Simber. Pan gives Simber the secret place and they go on journey
Thisbe and Fifer find the journey very hard and difficult not at all what they expected. They go searching for food and water so they abandon Hux and Seth. They go to the flee market where they are ambushed by men who call Thisbe a thief and want to sell them. A boy and girl approach them but don't free them. Thisbe uses her magic to make the prosin bamboo bars alive, but they change into a monster, so the girls are free but again in danger. Seth came looking for them and is attacked by the bars. The girls manage to free him and go on the run back to the mountain but Hux has disappeared...
Later when the girls and seth go searching for water the boy named Dev meets them again. He tells the girls that their black eyes are important and a trade mark for the auction. They cut the hair of a thief so that's why everyone thinks thisbe is a thief for her hair is short. Dec is arrogant and mysterious. He is their guide through the land and searching for materials too. Thisbe saved him from a gigantic snake. at a night Hux appears and they continue the journey to search for materials for the wings. Then a cry from Arabis is heard and the must go to the castle immediately. There they meet the princess who was the same girl of the market. Dev is her servant and friend. Thisbee and Fifer can't make the wings for they don't have enough material. Thisbee is dragged away because she is a thief in their eyes. Fifer and Seth must make the wings or else... the dragons are in the dungen. Thisbee meets a old woman Maive and Dev brings food, he betrayed them so he would get gold. Carina and Thatcher are prisoners too and they meet each other again. Seth and Fifer fight, but fifer at last is able to extend the wings. Seth has the idea to set the eat timers at the same time so the dragons are free at the same time and can escape, but Drunx is stubble and won't have his wing fixed. Seth is freed because he has 'normal' eyes. Simber saves him and they are going to save thisbee Fifer and the Dragons, Fifer is forced to the auction Dragonsmarche and so is Thisbee. seth calms Drunx and is able to fix his wings just in time, the dragons escape and fire away. Carina and seth go on Arabis back to Artimé with the 4 dragons and the rest go save the girls. The twins are in a prison again to be sold. The former leaders had black eyes and fought for the dragons freedom, but they lost so now all black eyed people are being sold as slaves so is Dev!! Simber comes to the rescue, but shatterd the glasswall made by thisbee and Fifer lost conscious!! But then the Revinir appears and takes Thisbee away!! Simber takes Fifer away but can't go after Thisbee... Dev saved Fifer by taking the glass out and helping with her wounds. they fly to warbler island where await more devastating news for the island has sunk due the volcano and SKY IS GONE LOST AT SEA!! AND THEY MUST GO BACK TO ARTIMÉ TO TELL ALL THIS TO ALEX!!!
Thisbee is in the catacombs WITH BONES!! WHATTT
OMG I CAN'T WAIT TO READ THE NEXT BOOK THIS WAS PHENOMENAL!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2020
Dragon Captives is a stunning first book of the second Unwanteds series, Unwanteds Quests, but I have lots of opinions about the different elements of it, so I'm going to dissect it a little bit.
CHARACTERS:
The characters might just be one of my least favorite parts of this book, and why I would want to make it 4 stars instead of 5. Note that what I say next about Alex is not meant to offend anyone who has suffered a life-changing injury. But, for real, Alex, move on. It has been ten years since Alex injured his arm and he still refuses to practice drawing or spell-casting with his other hand. As the literal head mage of Artime, he cannot let himself wallow in depressed self-pity and refuse to do anything, and yet that is how he behaves in this book. (At least in my opinion!) He also suffocates and overprotects the younger twins way too much. But I do, mostly, still love Alex. Then there is Fifer and Thisbe, or Fig and Thiz. These two are almost perfect. I feel horrible for them as they set off on this adventure with no magical training, simply the natural "destructive" powers inside them, over which they have no control. However, I do love Fifer's sweetness and melodiousness and Thisbe's wild dramatics. They are very fun characters to have as the main stars of this series. Seth is so sweet. He is so loyal to the twins, though admittedly cautious around them, and I love that he hates the pressure of being in charge. That feels so realistic for me, and the twins definitely need his friendship throughout the rest of these books. The rest of the side characters (our old friends from The Unwanteds, the dragons, and the rest) all played important roles in this book. I really felt like there were no unnecessary characters.
SETTING: (There are spoilers in this section, beware!)
I actually love the new place explored in this book. I can imagine Lisa McMann's thought process as she thought about what might be beyond the islands, and I absolutely love the idea she created. The Seven Islands are split apart from "the land of dragons" (Grimere) by a great chasm of nothingness. But the land of dragons is not their land anymore, having been taken over by the evil Revinir. I love that there was a castle in this world, because castles are amazing, and the idea of the villages spread across all of the mountains and cliffs was so fun. It was also so amazing to pull away from the Seven Islands and explore farther. I can't wait to see more of this land in future books!
PLOT: (So many major spoilers ahead!)
Oh. My. Gosh. That plot. Lisa McMann is an incredible author, simply amazing, in the way that she never runs out of shocking, horrifying, thrilling things to happen to the poor Unwanteds, and nothing ever seems forced. Dragon Captives is no exception. In this book, the young dragons are enslaved, the younger Stowe twins decide to help, and Thisbe, Fifer, and their older friend Seth are roped into the adventure of a lifetime. Through dragons, lies, betrayal, friendship, secrets, dungeons, castles, mountains, waterfalls, and so much more, Dragon Captives is spun into a breathtaking, heartstopping story. I was honestly hooked during the first few chapters. Second/sequel series aren't always the best, but this one caught me right away, and held me to the end. And that. Ending! I need to hurry up and finish this (extremely long) review so I can read the next book! The "dead" evil queen being the evil Revinir? Thisbe getting captured? Fifer so terribly wounded and separated from her twin sister? Sky getting sucked down to the volcano? Everyone thinking she's dead, even when she can't be, because Queen Eagala survived? Oh god. The Unwanteds are really in for it this time.
WRITING:
Lisa McMann's writing is incredible. Throughout the Unwanteds and this first book of the Unwanteds Quests, she keeps steady with the voices of the characters, both how they speak, act, and think. She manages to describe everything without going on and on, and I can perfectly imagine all that goes on. In Dragon Captives, she hold true to how she wrote the Unwanteds series, skipping between characters to tell the story in a way that creates the most suspense. Incredible.
IN CONCLUSION:
Though I don't love the behavior and actions of some of the characters, the amazing plot, setting, and writing completely made up for that. The Unwanteds Quests is off to an amazing start with Dragon Captives and I can't wait to read more.
CHARACTERS:
The characters might just be one of my least favorite parts of this book, and why I would want to make it 4 stars instead of 5. Note that what I say next about Alex is not meant to offend anyone who has suffered a life-changing injury. But, for real, Alex, move on. It has been ten years since Alex injured his arm and he still refuses to practice drawing or spell-casting with his other hand. As the literal head mage of Artime, he cannot let himself wallow in depressed self-pity and refuse to do anything, and yet that is how he behaves in this book. (At least in my opinion!) He also suffocates and overprotects the younger twins way too much. But I do, mostly, still love Alex. Then there is Fifer and Thisbe, or Fig and Thiz. These two are almost perfect. I feel horrible for them as they set off on this adventure with no magical training, simply the natural "destructive" powers inside them, over which they have no control. However, I do love Fifer's sweetness and melodiousness and Thisbe's wild dramatics. They are very fun characters to have as the main stars of this series. Seth is so sweet. He is so loyal to the twins, though admittedly cautious around them, and I love that he hates the pressure of being in charge. That feels so realistic for me, and the twins definitely need his friendship throughout the rest of these books. The rest of the side characters (our old friends from The Unwanteds, the dragons, and the rest) all played important roles in this book. I really felt like there were no unnecessary characters.
SETTING: (There are spoilers in this section, beware!)
I actually love the new place explored in this book. I can imagine Lisa McMann's thought process as she thought about what might be beyond the islands, and I absolutely love the idea she created. The Seven Islands are split apart from "the land of dragons" (Grimere) by a great chasm of nothingness. But the land of dragons is not their land anymore, having been taken over by the evil Revinir. I love that there was a castle in this world, because castles are amazing, and the idea of the villages spread across all of the mountains and cliffs was so fun. It was also so amazing to pull away from the Seven Islands and explore farther. I can't wait to see more of this land in future books!
PLOT: (So many major spoilers ahead!)
Oh. My. Gosh. That plot. Lisa McMann is an incredible author, simply amazing, in the way that she never runs out of shocking, horrifying, thrilling things to happen to the poor Unwanteds, and nothing ever seems forced. Dragon Captives is no exception. In this book, the young dragons are enslaved, the younger Stowe twins decide to help, and Thisbe, Fifer, and their older friend Seth are roped into the adventure of a lifetime. Through dragons, lies, betrayal, friendship, secrets, dungeons, castles, mountains, waterfalls, and so much more, Dragon Captives is spun into a breathtaking, heartstopping story. I was honestly hooked during the first few chapters. Second/sequel series aren't always the best, but this one caught me right away, and held me to the end. And that. Ending! I need to hurry up and finish this (extremely long) review so I can read the next book! The "dead" evil queen being the evil Revinir? Thisbe getting captured? Fifer so terribly wounded and separated from her twin sister? Sky getting sucked down to the volcano? Everyone thinking she's dead, even when she can't be, because Queen Eagala survived? Oh god. The Unwanteds are really in for it this time.
WRITING:
Lisa McMann's writing is incredible. Throughout the Unwanteds and this first book of the Unwanteds Quests, she keeps steady with the voices of the characters, both how they speak, act, and think. She manages to describe everything without going on and on, and I can perfectly imagine all that goes on. In Dragon Captives, she hold true to how she wrote the Unwanteds series, skipping between characters to tell the story in a way that creates the most suspense. Incredible.
IN CONCLUSION:
Though I don't love the behavior and actions of some of the characters, the amazing plot, setting, and writing completely made up for that. The Unwanteds Quests is off to an amazing start with Dragon Captives and I can't wait to read more.
December 14, 2022
In Lisa McMann’s The UnWanteds Quests, Dragon Captives, we are given another adventure to follow as Alex has to deal with his two daughters who have grown up to be two very troublesome preteens. All while Hux, the water dragon, is asking Alex for support to save her own kids have been captured by the Revinir. Before Alex and the other Artimès can make a plan of rescue, Fifer and Thisbe rush off with Hux in the hope of proving to Alex that they can control their powers and make him proud. But they never knew what trouble they had just thrown themselves into. This book was definitely a good add-on to the original series, I personally enjoyed reading it and I can’t wait to see how Lisa Mcmann plan’s on completing this part of the series. For those that enjoyed Alex’s original character, you will need to take this book with a grain of salt. In this book, his character does change a good bit, but that’s because he has dealt with a lot of stress in the 10-year gap while raising his daughters. He has become a dad now and that needs to be kept in mind while reading this book.
Lisa’s whole goal in writing this book was to expand the Unwanted’s story and give us that after story of how these secluded islands connect back into the rest of the world. With that in mind, I think she executed that very nicely with this addition. This book picks up after 10 years have passed since the last book took place. Everyone has grown up now. Lisa knows that it wouldn’t make sense to have Alex still going on crazy adventures now that he is a young adult so she instead has the much younger Fifer and Thisbe be the ignitors for exploration. With these new expeditions and a new twist at every corner, this book keeps the reader on their toes and eyes glued to the paper with anticipation of what might come next. For that reason, I would definitely recommend this book to those that have already read the first 7 books of the original series then come back to this book and read the second set of books. I will also just confirm that this series fits the description of “The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter.” to the tee. The world is like the Hunger Games and the magical components definitely feel inspired by Harry Potter. In conclusion, for those that have already read the first series and still want more from the “The Unwanteds” world then this is a must-read. For those that are trying to pick up a long-lasting series, going and picking up the first part of this 2 part series is highly recommended in my opinion. Even after reading this book and halfway through the second series, I wouldn’t mind rereading the first part of the series again. Though that is just how much I love this series.
(For those reading this, take it lightly this was an assignment)
Lisa’s whole goal in writing this book was to expand the Unwanted’s story and give us that after story of how these secluded islands connect back into the rest of the world. With that in mind, I think she executed that very nicely with this addition. This book picks up after 10 years have passed since the last book took place. Everyone has grown up now. Lisa knows that it wouldn’t make sense to have Alex still going on crazy adventures now that he is a young adult so she instead has the much younger Fifer and Thisbe be the ignitors for exploration. With these new expeditions and a new twist at every corner, this book keeps the reader on their toes and eyes glued to the paper with anticipation of what might come next. For that reason, I would definitely recommend this book to those that have already read the first 7 books of the original series then come back to this book and read the second set of books. I will also just confirm that this series fits the description of “The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter.” to the tee. The world is like the Hunger Games and the magical components definitely feel inspired by Harry Potter. In conclusion, for those that have already read the first series and still want more from the “The Unwanteds” world then this is a must-read. For those that are trying to pick up a long-lasting series, going and picking up the first part of this 2 part series is highly recommended in my opinion. Even after reading this book and halfway through the second series, I wouldn’t mind rereading the first part of the series again. Though that is just how much I love this series.
(For those reading this, take it lightly this was an assignment)
April 17, 2017
Twin sisters, Fifer and Thisbe Stowe, are tired of being treated as little children. They have remarkable powers, magic that often gets out of control. They believe they should get training to help. Their big brother Alex, the head of magic on the Seven Isles, thinks just the opposite, that they should be kept away from it at all costs until they are much older.
In a quest to prove themselves, Fifer, Thisbe and their best friend Seth, lie to a dragon and fly to Dragon World, where dragons are enslaved and need help. Adventures are not quite as fun as the stories they've been told, and the trio are quickly cast into the dungeon. Nothing goes as planned, and with untrained magic powers, Fifer and Thisbe might not be able to save themselves or the dragons.
My Thoughts-
I did not read the first series, The Unwanteds, so I came to this book with a fresh perspective, and it was just fine. There is enough of a back story given that you don't get lost, plus this story is about the twelve year old twins, where the other series happened ten years in the past to their older twin brothers. Alex and Aaron.
I really felt bad for these poor girls. They are obviously talented, but their brother keeps all magic away from them. He fears that his sisters are out of control and wants to keep them in a safe bubble. Fifer and Thisbe believe just the opposite, and of course, this gets them into trouble. And because they have been sheltered by their big brother, they are not prepared to face the adventure ahead. Good news, the twins quickly realize this, which I liked, and they take responsibility fast.
There are a score of other fun characters, including stone statues that are alive. I found this aspect of the story delightful. The highest level of mages can turn unliving matter into living things. For Fifer and Thisbe, this means that they need to add on length to the enslaved dragons wings so that they can fly free.
The very first chapter gives a dynamic start to the book, and a very good insight into Fifer and Thisbe's personalities and the problems with their magic. Plus, one of the twins causes a stone creature to die, and the reader is able to see the depth of her pain at harming or killing another creature.
This is a good start off to what seems like a very adventurous and exciting series. I really enjoyed it. 5 stars!
In a quest to prove themselves, Fifer, Thisbe and their best friend Seth, lie to a dragon and fly to Dragon World, where dragons are enslaved and need help. Adventures are not quite as fun as the stories they've been told, and the trio are quickly cast into the dungeon. Nothing goes as planned, and with untrained magic powers, Fifer and Thisbe might not be able to save themselves or the dragons.
My Thoughts-
I did not read the first series, The Unwanteds, so I came to this book with a fresh perspective, and it was just fine. There is enough of a back story given that you don't get lost, plus this story is about the twelve year old twins, where the other series happened ten years in the past to their older twin brothers. Alex and Aaron.
I really felt bad for these poor girls. They are obviously talented, but their brother keeps all magic away from them. He fears that his sisters are out of control and wants to keep them in a safe bubble. Fifer and Thisbe believe just the opposite, and of course, this gets them into trouble. And because they have been sheltered by their big brother, they are not prepared to face the adventure ahead. Good news, the twins quickly realize this, which I liked, and they take responsibility fast.
There are a score of other fun characters, including stone statues that are alive. I found this aspect of the story delightful. The highest level of mages can turn unliving matter into living things. For Fifer and Thisbe, this means that they need to add on length to the enslaved dragons wings so that they can fly free.
The very first chapter gives a dynamic start to the book, and a very good insight into Fifer and Thisbe's personalities and the problems with their magic. Plus, one of the twins causes a stone creature to die, and the reader is able to see the depth of her pain at harming or killing another creature.
This is a good start off to what seems like a very adventurous and exciting series. I really enjoyed it. 5 stars!
June 24, 2023
I was a little bit apprehensive that the first book in The Unwanteds' sequel series would be really bad and not fit into the story line at all but I was happily surprised when it fit right in and made sense! It was weird to think of Alex, Aaron, Lani, Sky, Samheed, and all the others about 10 years older so that did take a little adjustment on my end. I really liked getting to know the older versions of Fifer and Thisbe too. Now I'm hooked and I'll have to read the rest of The Unwanteds Quests series!😆
September 11, 2017
This book takes place ten years after the last one ends. Thisbe and Fifer, Alex's sisters, are now 12 years old. They are not being allowed to take magical warriors training because they can't control their natural magic. They really want to deepen there knowledge of magic; so when the dragon Hux arrives asking for help and is denied help because it is too dangerous they see this as the perfect opportunity to prove themselves. They set out on their adventure and are greeted with a number of challenges and difficulties. On the Island of dragons where the dragons are being help as slaves.
November 24, 2021
The rating was a typo. It should be 1000000000/5 stars, at the least. All I can really think about is what happens next? Thisbe and Fifer are some of my favorite female leads. I love how strong and confident they are in everything they do, and they are so supportive of each other which really makes me smile. I really enjoyed the first series and I already know how that I’m going to love the rest of this series.
April 22, 2017
I really thought this book was great being sort of a sequel series to the The Unwanteds. I feel like there were many cliffhangers making me want to keep reading. Dragon Captives is like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child where the story starts 20 years after the last book. I am looking forward to reading the second book in the series.
April 9, 2021
Such an amazing start to the series. The ending IS SO SAD AND HEARTBREAKING. Skye dies and then Thisbe is captured and turns out Egala isn't dead. EXTREMELY DEPRESSING. But I loved the action parts throughout the book. Overall, dragon captives is packed with action, rescue missions, captivity and sadness.
July 1, 2020
This is an exciting addition to The Unwanteds world focusing on the twins Thisbe and Fifer, Alex and Aaron's sisters. I look forward to reading how the girls grow and mature through this series, and how they ALL get out of the predicament that they are in at the end of this book.
June 4, 2017
This book gives a great twist ending believe it or not.
June 24, 2018
I liked the story pretty well, but since I had not read the previous series, I felt like I was jumping into the middle of a story with only a few clues as to what happened before. I usually enjoy dragon stories, but this one did not excite me, or entice me to read the next one in the series.
October 1, 2020
AMAZING!!!
January 30, 2022
The first part was kinda slow but the rest of the book was pretty good!
August 24, 2022
AHHHHHHHHHHH! much better than i expected!
June 15, 2025
It was great but devastating I swear I cried like 3 times.
February 19, 2019
I thought this was a great book because of how it was action pack and how thisbe and the other friends thought they could prove themselfs by saving the dragons.
October 3, 2018
I have
interesting quotes
After awhile, everything gets better or worse. Rarely does anything stay the same.
interesting quotes
After awhile, everything gets better or worse. Rarely does anything stay the same.
April 17, 2017
Writing was very slow in the beginning, but I loved the ending. I saw a picture of a castle the other day and I thought, "That reminds me of a book...I want to read that one..." until I realized the sequel hasn't come out yet :(
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