What do you think?
Rate this book
The Book of the Caretaker #1
The Caretaker
Trust the magic within you, and wield it well, my daughter.
When sixteen-year-old Morgan feels her magic awake and learns of her destiny to become a Caretaker of Dragons, she and her brother Daniel leave Earth behind to begin a life of duty, propriety, and weighty responsibility. While they knew that Morgan would wield powerful magic to heal, nurture, and empower the noble dragons and people of Chemerie, neither is prepared to learn that being the new Caretaker also means being the next Queen.
With Daniel at her side as her primary protector, Morgan focuses on wielding her magic with greater skill, quickening the magic of hatchlings within their eggs, nurturing new clutches, and healing wounds in both humans and dragons. Navigating the duties and expectations of her position proves challenging when her magic makes her aware of the thoughts and feelings of others, especially those of her mate. After feeling the profound nature of the magical link they share, she chooses to keep him at a distance until fully confident in her role as Caretaker.
Her skills are soon tested when an evil warlord brings his mighty forces of soldiers and dragons against Chemerie. After enduring both bloody battles and devious plots intended to control or end the Caretaker bloodline, Morgan realizes that her true destiny lies at the front of the battle, not in the safety of shadows.
Without the magic of the Caretaker line, Chemerie will fall. Will Morgan be the first to stand between her country and the darkness, or the last of them all?
The Caretaker is the first in April C. Royer’s young-adult fantasy romance series, The Book of the Caretaker. If you enjoy epic adventure full of endearing characters, fast-paced action, tender romance, and relevant moral dilemmas, this series is for you. Launch yourself into this captivating fantasy series today!
When sixteen-year-old Morgan feels her magic awake and learns of her destiny to become a Caretaker of Dragons, she and her brother Daniel leave Earth behind to begin a life of duty, propriety, and weighty responsibility. While they knew that Morgan would wield powerful magic to heal, nurture, and empower the noble dragons and people of Chemerie, neither is prepared to learn that being the new Caretaker also means being the next Queen.
With Daniel at her side as her primary protector, Morgan focuses on wielding her magic with greater skill, quickening the magic of hatchlings within their eggs, nurturing new clutches, and healing wounds in both humans and dragons. Navigating the duties and expectations of her position proves challenging when her magic makes her aware of the thoughts and feelings of others, especially those of her mate. After feeling the profound nature of the magical link they share, she chooses to keep him at a distance until fully confident in her role as Caretaker.
Her skills are soon tested when an evil warlord brings his mighty forces of soldiers and dragons against Chemerie. After enduring both bloody battles and devious plots intended to control or end the Caretaker bloodline, Morgan realizes that her true destiny lies at the front of the battle, not in the safety of shadows.
Without the magic of the Caretaker line, Chemerie will fall. Will Morgan be the first to stand between her country and the darkness, or the last of them all?
The Caretaker is the first in April C. Royer’s young-adult fantasy romance series, The Book of the Caretaker. If you enjoy epic adventure full of endearing characters, fast-paced action, tender romance, and relevant moral dilemmas, this series is for you. Launch yourself into this captivating fantasy series today!
464 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2018
About the author
April C Royer
3 books13 followersApril C. Royer is a chemistry professor and fantasy author from Chattanooga, TN. As a professor, she expects her students to own their future. As a writer, she requires the same of her characters, but gives them a bit of magic, and fiercely protective dragons, to help them on their way. When not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading, gaming, fly fishing, and wakesurfing with family and friends.
Visit my Amazon author Page!
amazon.com/author/aprilcroyer
Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/aprilcroyer/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilcroyer/
Visit my Amazon author Page!
amazon.com/author/aprilcroyer
Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/aprilcroyer/
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilcroyer/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 15, 2019
Love this book! All the elements of a great fantasy story, and very well written. I'm impressed that this is a debut novel.
I highly recommend this book for young women. This coming of age story has a strong young woman as it's protagonist, and the story avoids the usual trope of a different or outcast girl breaking into a man's world. In this world, the roles are flipped, and it feels normal. The girl has the magic and the power, and that's the way it's supposed to be.
The story has a quick pace, and a lot is packed between the covers. Themes of complex familial relationships, loss, forgiveness are threaded throughout. Read it, and definitely share this with any pre-teen or older young women in your life.
I highly recommend this book for young women. This coming of age story has a strong young woman as it's protagonist, and the story avoids the usual trope of a different or outcast girl breaking into a man's world. In this world, the roles are flipped, and it feels normal. The girl has the magic and the power, and that's the way it's supposed to be.
The story has a quick pace, and a lot is packed between the covers. Themes of complex familial relationships, loss, forgiveness are threaded throughout. Read it, and definitely share this with any pre-teen or older young women in your life.
March 2, 2019
Wow! I could not put this book down!! A beautiful adventure of compassion, courage and growth. Packed full of action and details, the author paints this wonderful story into quite the page turner! I eagerly await book 2!!
April 18, 2019
Book Review for The Caretaker
While reading The Caretaker by April C. Royer, the reader gets to experience a whole new world in a thrilling, fiction novel. As the reader explores the new world of Chemerie on the planet Erion, they follow Morgan as she learns to navigate her new life and her new magic. Everything does not stay happy for long though because as Morgan is stepping into her role of caretaker to dragons, a war breaks loose. Morgan then has to use everything she has if she even wants a chance at winning this war. Through her journey, we see many struggles that Morgan faces both within herself and outside herself. This exquisitely written, fiction novel explores what it means to have courage, and what it means to find inner strength and determination.
There are many trials for Morgan throughout the book that cause her to either doubt herself or push through it with greater force. She does not push through the obstacles in her way by herself though. With support from her brother and Alec, she finds herself accomplishing more than she ever thought she could. An example of the support that she is given is shown even before Morgan and her brother travel to the land of Chemerie when her brother Daniel reassures her: “Listen, I’m usually a big kid with you, but I need you to know that I take this very seriously, and have no intention of letting you down. They called you way early. And, yeah, that’s probably going to get you some doubters over there. But not me. I won’t treat you like a kid. I’m hoping you’ll trust me… I will protect you little sister.” (22). This is only one example of the strength that she possesses and the support that she is given. Many more examples like this one are seen throughout the book, whether it is for a big task or a small task. The example shown can also be tied into what this book shows about determination and inner strength.
The determination that is seen through Morgan is of great magnitude. This is shown when her magic allows her to, surpass that of her ancestors, and communicate with a large crowd, through a mind link, saying, “Thank you for your trust, my friends. I will give you all that I have” (129). Once again, this quote is far from being the only one to show a powerful resilience and strength. With many more like it, the story is filled with perseverance, determination, and amazing examples of respectfulness. The best part about that determination is the fact that it is realistic. When it comes to other stories, especially those involving magic, they tend to stray from being very realistic and overly relatable. A beautiful thing about this book is that it deals with self-doubt within a strong girl. A theme of this book is that everyone has doubts and worries, no matter who they are. That is then coupled with another theme that everyone has untapped strength inside of them no matter how much they are doubting themselves.
Overall, the themes and lessons in this book are fantastic especially when they are paired with the storyline and articulation of the book. This novel is one of my personal favorites because of everything that it encompasses. The art that is this book is amazing, and I think that it should be shared with every young person because of everything between the covers of this book. It entails a story about determination and what it means to have courage and perseverance. Overall, the takeaways of this book are phenomenal and inspiring, whether it is in the writing, the meaning, or just the storyline itself. Everyone should have self-confidence and perseverance and this book does a great job of showing how to accomplish that.
While reading The Caretaker by April C. Royer, the reader gets to experience a whole new world in a thrilling, fiction novel. As the reader explores the new world of Chemerie on the planet Erion, they follow Morgan as she learns to navigate her new life and her new magic. Everything does not stay happy for long though because as Morgan is stepping into her role of caretaker to dragons, a war breaks loose. Morgan then has to use everything she has if she even wants a chance at winning this war. Through her journey, we see many struggles that Morgan faces both within herself and outside herself. This exquisitely written, fiction novel explores what it means to have courage, and what it means to find inner strength and determination.
There are many trials for Morgan throughout the book that cause her to either doubt herself or push through it with greater force. She does not push through the obstacles in her way by herself though. With support from her brother and Alec, she finds herself accomplishing more than she ever thought she could. An example of the support that she is given is shown even before Morgan and her brother travel to the land of Chemerie when her brother Daniel reassures her: “Listen, I’m usually a big kid with you, but I need you to know that I take this very seriously, and have no intention of letting you down. They called you way early. And, yeah, that’s probably going to get you some doubters over there. But not me. I won’t treat you like a kid. I’m hoping you’ll trust me… I will protect you little sister.” (22). This is only one example of the strength that she possesses and the support that she is given. Many more examples like this one are seen throughout the book, whether it is for a big task or a small task. The example shown can also be tied into what this book shows about determination and inner strength.
The determination that is seen through Morgan is of great magnitude. This is shown when her magic allows her to, surpass that of her ancestors, and communicate with a large crowd, through a mind link, saying, “Thank you for your trust, my friends. I will give you all that I have” (129). Once again, this quote is far from being the only one to show a powerful resilience and strength. With many more like it, the story is filled with perseverance, determination, and amazing examples of respectfulness. The best part about that determination is the fact that it is realistic. When it comes to other stories, especially those involving magic, they tend to stray from being very realistic and overly relatable. A beautiful thing about this book is that it deals with self-doubt within a strong girl. A theme of this book is that everyone has doubts and worries, no matter who they are. That is then coupled with another theme that everyone has untapped strength inside of them no matter how much they are doubting themselves.
Overall, the themes and lessons in this book are fantastic especially when they are paired with the storyline and articulation of the book. This novel is one of my personal favorites because of everything that it encompasses. The art that is this book is amazing, and I think that it should be shared with every young person because of everything between the covers of this book. It entails a story about determination and what it means to have courage and perseverance. Overall, the takeaways of this book are phenomenal and inspiring, whether it is in the writing, the meaning, or just the storyline itself. Everyone should have self-confidence and perseverance and this book does a great job of showing how to accomplish that.
October 15, 2022
The author describes a world of magic and dragons so well it feels like your there. I love the storyline it has action and romance and plenty of plot and conflict. The characters are well written and you want them be successful in the quest of the story. The caretaker Is responsible to help take Care of the dragons and is called once the last caretaker which the caretaker mother before her to fill the role in place that not earth, but another planet. Morgan was called extra early for her role can see learn and be the queen they need or will young age be their downfall?
I can't wait to book 2 starting it next.
I can't wait to book 2 starting it next.
October 8, 2022
An awesome read for all fantasy lovers. This book has dragons, adventure, action, magic, great character development and written in a fast paced manner that keeps you hooked! Love the strong female main character and how the roles were reversed in females had the power! Great read highly recommend
October 26, 2022
Thanks to the author for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
If you are a fan of Graceling then this book is right up your alley. It gives classic fantasy vibes and has lots of dragons. The dragons play a very integral part to the story instead of just hanging around like decoration. A lot of things happen in this book and it covers several years of the main characters, Morgan, life. At times it seemed kinda fast? And the speed of which huge life changes happen didnt quite align with how nonchalant Morgan was. I understand the magic has a deep connection and all but I didnt feel like it had been proven to me why the main characters loved each other? I didn’t feel much chemistry between them until nearing the end and even then it felt hollow. Overall it was a fun read with a very friendship/love/respect/family base and it has a lot of world building and character connections. Perhaps a little too polite and a lot of life changes but the playful moments were really sweet and I’m excited to read book 2.
If you are a fan of Graceling then this book is right up your alley. It gives classic fantasy vibes and has lots of dragons. The dragons play a very integral part to the story instead of just hanging around like decoration. A lot of things happen in this book and it covers several years of the main characters, Morgan, life. At times it seemed kinda fast? And the speed of which huge life changes happen didnt quite align with how nonchalant Morgan was. I understand the magic has a deep connection and all but I didnt feel like it had been proven to me why the main characters loved each other? I didn’t feel much chemistry between them until nearing the end and even then it felt hollow. Overall it was a fun read with a very friendship/love/respect/family base and it has a lot of world building and character connections. Perhaps a little too polite and a lot of life changes but the playful moments were really sweet and I’m excited to read book 2.
November 1, 2019
This was a lovely story that easily saturates the reader with a beautiful world and characters. The story moves along smoothly with just the right amount of adventure for the main character Morgan who finds her life quickly changing. For teens, through adults this author has given the reader enough length to fall fully into the story and not want to leave.
The Dragons in this book are developed with distinct personalities that were easy to relate to and enjoy. I didn’t think I was a dragon person – but this book changed my mind.
The Dragons in this book are developed with distinct personalities that were easy to relate to and enjoy. I didn’t think I was a dragon person – but this book changed my mind.
June 8, 2018
The book The Caretaker is a fantastic book that takes you on an enchanting adventure in the world of Erion. I love the way that you can get lost in this story and really feel like you are there and a part of their world. This book portrays so many different emotions from love, loss, forgiveness, and acceptance. The Caretaker is really a great read for young and older adults!!!!! It was so captivating that I read it in one day. I can’t wait for book two to come out….. I will be at the bookstore the day it is released.
August 4, 2021
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I love dragons, and I love my children. This book was enchanting from beginning to end. Once I started listening I could not “put it down”. The story is hooking, & the performance is magnificent. I recommend this book/series to any dragon lover, and any parent. This book has strong connections of family and love for each other. I can’t wait to share this story with my children.
I love dragons, and I love my children. This book was enchanting from beginning to end. Once I started listening I could not “put it down”. The story is hooking, & the performance is magnificent. I recommend this book/series to any dragon lover, and any parent. This book has strong connections of family and love for each other. I can’t wait to share this story with my children.
August 31, 2022
This has got to be one of the best written books I’ve ever read. What an excellent writer!! Your reader is extremely good. Very easy to listen to with great expression. With this being said I think at my old age of 70 and the first of this type of fiction I’m hooked.
OMG you are a beautiful writer. Anyone that I know that reads in this genre I’ll refer your book.
It just tickles me that there are writers out there that can write so smoothly.
OMG you are a beautiful writer. Anyone that I know that reads in this genre I’ll refer your book.
It just tickles me that there are writers out there that can write so smoothly.
May 7, 2023
I loved the world built in this first novel. The magic and dragons were fun to learn about and explore. However, I could not get over the dialogue. Characters spoke to each other like nobody does. I would say a few of them out loud and they were painful to hear.
August 21, 2020
Listened to the audiobook and I loved it!! The narrator makes you feel like you are in the story. So good!!
Want to Read
November 23, 2021It was very entertaining full of content and descriptions of places. Some of the descriptions of places could have been done a little better but all in all it is a very good book.
January 1, 2023
This Book is by far the best start to a series! It drags you in and makes you want more with each page.
July 15, 2020
I feel mixed about this book. I think the author would have done better writing this and marketing it more for older children to the pre-teen age group. The writing and story development is more on par with that.
The good: 1) This is a new take on dragon lore, and I like the differences as well as the lore she kept the same. 2) The story is fun and the world(s) complete.
The bad: 1) Everything falls flat from the two dimensional characters to the way everything just "falls" together time and again. She did not use the problems to create tension to carry the story telling along. 2) The book is way too long and too much is shoved into the story. 3) The writing is flat and geared more toward a child's vocabulary
This book would be safe to let older children and pre-teens read. Although there are some adult concepts, such as marriage and what that entails, this book is as G rated as a kids film. No bad language, No adult relationship "stuff". There is some kissing and light explanations about how that makes them feel. There are also minor hints at more "wicked" thoughts without ever divulging them. I think that kids would love it and find it an easy read.
As an adult, thinking this was a book for either the YA demographic or beyond, I was less than impressed. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone over the age of 12. The author has some very creative ideas though, and I hope to see her progress her talent and see what she offers in the future.
"I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
The good: 1) This is a new take on dragon lore, and I like the differences as well as the lore she kept the same. 2) The story is fun and the world(s) complete.
The bad: 1) Everything falls flat from the two dimensional characters to the way everything just "falls" together time and again. She did not use the problems to create tension to carry the story telling along. 2) The book is way too long and too much is shoved into the story. 3) The writing is flat and geared more toward a child's vocabulary
This book would be safe to let older children and pre-teens read. Although there are some adult concepts, such as marriage and what that entails, this book is as G rated as a kids film. No bad language, No adult relationship "stuff". There is some kissing and light explanations about how that makes them feel. There are also minor hints at more "wicked" thoughts without ever divulging them. I think that kids would love it and find it an easy read.
As an adult, thinking this was a book for either the YA demographic or beyond, I was less than impressed. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone over the age of 12. The author has some very creative ideas though, and I hope to see her progress her talent and see what she offers in the future.
"I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review."
July 30, 2021
It was a good book. My teacher decided we were reading this for English. The only problem was that the hard copy I purchased was *literally* falling apart. Within a few minutes of opening it, several pages fell out. The binding is coming unglued and the cover got creased. I can’t believe how poorly made this book was.
January 9, 2022
Magic, dragons, mates, OH MY 😍
If you’re looking for a well developed magic system, a kick ass female mc, and a world to get lost in.. this is your book. 🤩
This book really makes you care about the characters. Besides the swoon worthy romance 😉the friendships are so deep and enemies so evil you can’t help but react to this book.
If you’re looking for a well developed magic system, a kick ass female mc, and a world to get lost in.. this is your book. 🤩
This book really makes you care about the characters. Besides the swoon worthy romance 😉the friendships are so deep and enemies so evil you can’t help but react to this book.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews