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D'Vaire #1
Dra'Kaedan's Coven
Dra’Kaedan of Leolinnia was born with a mark of Fate proclaiming that someday he would be the Grand Warlock. Standing in his way is Carvallius of Mallent who is desperate to rule the warlocks. His granddaughter Latarian has little magic so Carvallius concocts a plan to kidnap Dra’Kaedan to steal his power. After spells are carved into Dra’Kaedan’s back, he begins life anew as Latarian’s familiar whom she calls Ayden. With no memory of his past, the pair are shuffled off to a cottage while Carvallius enlists the help of a brutal elven tribe to rob Dra’Kaedan of his future title. The tactic backfires, and the Coven of Warlocks is destroyed.
Minutes after Brogan shifts into a dragon for the first time, his best friend is banished from their court. Loyal to the core, Brogan follows Aleksander through the castle gates of their old home. Fate turns Aleksander into a king and Court D’Vaire is established. Considered cursed by dragonkind the D’Vaires are ostracized. After six centuries of loneliness Brogan leaves his family desperate to find his mate. He has no idea Fate has intervened and sent his other half right to Aleksander’s doorstep.
As a familiar Ayden struggles between a voice inside him that insists he is something more and Latarian’s stringent set of rules. He finds himself torn as he and Brogan try to find common ground. Can the pair find love and will Dra’Kaedan find out his true destiny before it’s too late?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2015
247 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Jessamyn Kingley
54 books140 followersJessamyn Kingley has published over forty titles and refuses to pick a favorite among them. With an extraordinary passion for her characters, Jessamyn eagerly crafts new tales and avidly re-reads them whenever her schedule allows. Jessamyn shares a home in Nevada with her husband and their three spoiled cats. When she is not writing or adding new ideas to her thick stack of beloved notebooks, she is gaming with family and friends.
Visit her website at: www.jessamynkingley.com
Join her Facebook group, Jessamyn's Ruffians: https://www.facebook.com/groups/13768...
Visit her website at: www.jessamynkingley.com
Join her Facebook group, Jessamyn's Ruffians: https://www.facebook.com/groups/13768...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
dnf
December 31, 2019dnf at 12% - the writing was so juvenile and horrific, and i was looking forward to a fantastic high fantasy with dragons. i considered rating this, but since i DNF'd at such a low percentage i thought that would be too mean even for me. i was extremely tempted, though.
July 30, 2020
I was about to blame myself for not liking this book but after seeing the reviews, I feel vindicated, I wasn't alone.
The blurb is fantastic, a Warlock who is kidnapped and forced to serve as a familiar while his memories have been wiped clean, sign me up.
The first few chapters had several time jumps and I considered leaving it right there and then. We went forward a month, then a week, then several years and then centuries pass in the span of less than 15 pages. That was already aggravating.
As other reviews have said, the writing was juvenile, the characters acted like children even though they were 600+. The plot of the story got buried in mundane conversations and sex. This book was 100 pages too long, I kept waiting for him to be revealed as a warlock, instead I got to watch tantrums being thrown or them having sex with the 30th time.
I wouldn't recommend.
The blurb is fantastic, a Warlock who is kidnapped and forced to serve as a familiar while his memories have been wiped clean, sign me up.
The first few chapters had several time jumps and I considered leaving it right there and then. We went forward a month, then a week, then several years and then centuries pass in the span of less than 15 pages. That was already aggravating.
As other reviews have said, the writing was juvenile, the characters acted like children even though they were 600+. The plot of the story got buried in mundane conversations and sex. This book was 100 pages too long, I kept waiting for him to be revealed as a warlock, instead I got to watch tantrums being thrown or them having sex with the 30th time.
I wouldn't recommend.
September 21, 2015
It was a uniquely weird and baffling experience reading Grand Redemption. I was caught feeling as if I was reading a children's story with adult themes.
The story itself is worthy of 4 stars, but the writing style and characters' dialogue is bizarrely incongruous for adult fantasy in my opinion. Here's an example of Ayden and his witch having escaped from hiding to arrive at what they believe might be sanctuary, they are greeted with the following:
Who speaks like that to complete strangers?
Perhaps the author was going for irony, or making the point that Dragon shifters are friendly, but to me it seemed more like an exchange in a children's book. The dialogue continued in a similar jaunty theme throughout.
Just humour me and look at the cover, does it not scream adult story full of angst? Well, it did to me. Having read the book I would suggest the cover should be much lighter and brighter with more of a My Little Pony vibe going on.
This is quite a quirky paranormal romance. I enjoyed the story despite being led by the hand throughout the narrative.
Ayden believes himself to be a warlock familiar and must follow the dictates of his warlock Latarian. After centuries of hiding, Fate sends them to the Draconis Court of D’Vaire - powerful dragon shifters.
Brogan is part of the dragon court and returns home from travelling and searching for his mate, only to discover he is fated to be with Ayden. This is unexpected and it takes both men time to adapt. Luckily, they have the guidance and support of their friends and family to help them despite Latarian's disapproval.
For beings that have allegedly been alive for centuries, I found Ayden and Brogan frustratingly immature, although they are both quite sweet and engaging too. They bicker constantly, Ayden considers himself to be a brat (despite centuries of submission to Latarian's whims) and Brogan behaves like an idiot, taking weeks to resolve an issue that could have been cleared up with a brief conversation.
The main characters view their constant bickering as endearing and an indication of passion. I found it mostly tiresome and juvenile.
With some good editing and a reworking of the dialogue this could easily hit five stars. As it is the tale is told in third person and the reader is never allowed to draw their own conclusions. I like to be able to do some thinking for myself. I prefer to work things out rather than having every gamut of emotion explained to me in the following kind of vain:
Eventually Ayden and Brogan come to terms with Fate, only to discover their future may be in peril with unexpected events unfolding.
For those looking for an easy read and a bright and breezy fantasy tale about dragon shifters, warlocks and other magical beings this is certainly a quirky story that has a lot going for it.
For readers looking for something dark and intense this is not it (don't let the cover fool you) move on.
* I was provided with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review as part of the Male/Male Romance group's Don't Buy My Love event *
The story itself is worthy of 4 stars, but the writing style and characters' dialogue is bizarrely incongruous for adult fantasy in my opinion. Here's an example of Ayden and his witch having escaped from hiding to arrive at what they believe might be sanctuary, they are greeted with the following:
"Hello can I help you? Hey, I like your clothes They are really awesome. I haven't seen anything like that in centuries. Kind of strange for a Wednesday in April, you look like it could be Halloween. Seriously, that would make a kick-ass Halloween costume. Wouldn't it be fun to have a big Halloween party? Too bad it's so far away. Are you hot in those clothes? Those cloaks look pretty heavy. Hey you want to come inside?
Who speaks like that to complete strangers?
Perhaps the author was going for irony, or making the point that Dragon shifters are friendly, but to me it seemed more like an exchange in a children's book. The dialogue continued in a similar jaunty theme throughout.
Just humour me and look at the cover, does it not scream adult story full of angst? Well, it did to me. Having read the book I would suggest the cover should be much lighter and brighter with more of a My Little Pony vibe going on.
This is quite a quirky paranormal romance. I enjoyed the story despite being led by the hand throughout the narrative.
Ayden believes himself to be a warlock familiar and must follow the dictates of his warlock Latarian. After centuries of hiding, Fate sends them to the Draconis Court of D’Vaire - powerful dragon shifters.
Brogan is part of the dragon court and returns home from travelling and searching for his mate, only to discover he is fated to be with Ayden. This is unexpected and it takes both men time to adapt. Luckily, they have the guidance and support of their friends and family to help them despite Latarian's disapproval.
For beings that have allegedly been alive for centuries, I found Ayden and Brogan frustratingly immature, although they are both quite sweet and engaging too. They bicker constantly, Ayden considers himself to be a brat (despite centuries of submission to Latarian's whims) and Brogan behaves like an idiot, taking weeks to resolve an issue that could have been cleared up with a brief conversation.
The main characters view their constant bickering as endearing and an indication of passion. I found it mostly tiresome and juvenile.
With some good editing and a reworking of the dialogue this could easily hit five stars. As it is the tale is told in third person and the reader is never allowed to draw their own conclusions. I like to be able to do some thinking for myself. I prefer to work things out rather than having every gamut of emotion explained to me in the following kind of vain:
'...Now it seemed easier to go straight to the source. Ayden would be able to answer all the questions about who and what he was, and hopefully it would ease all of Brogan's unease. Because despite all the fucked up freakiness surrounding him, Brogan was happy to have finally found his mate. He was so damned tired of being lonely...'
Eventually Ayden and Brogan come to terms with Fate, only to discover their future may be in peril with unexpected events unfolding.
For those looking for an easy read and a bright and breezy fantasy tale about dragon shifters, warlocks and other magical beings this is certainly a quirky story that has a lot going for it.
For readers looking for something dark and intense this is not it (don't let the cover fool you) move on.
* I was provided with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review as part of the Male/Male Romance group's Don't Buy My Love event *
September 10, 2022
DNF @ 7%. After just three chapters, there has been 18 different characters introduced. Eighteen! You need to ease me into your cast of 37493 characters. I’d hate to see how many how large the cast is by Book 30.
February 4, 2020
Interesting but,
I’d really like to give this more stars but I can’t. I was actually to the point of checking how much more there was to go.
I think quite a bit could be slashed during some good edits and still have a substantial and great story.
I will read continue with the series, I just hoping the author got a good professional editor.
I’d really like to give this more stars but I can’t. I was actually to the point of checking how much more there was to go.
I think quite a bit could be slashed during some good edits and still have a substantial and great story.
I will read continue with the series, I just hoping the author got a good professional editor.
May 22, 2019
I had very high hopes on starting this one, but sadly it never lived up to my ideals.
Story wise it was interesting. I enjoyed seeing how things played out, and the characters have all captured my interest.
The down side for me was both the simple way parts of the story came about (for example Blodwen) and the child like behaviour of Ayden and then Renny. I seem to have a problem with Mates being written as one large and manly and one small and childlike. Bratty is OK but when over done it spoils the mood for me. I also found myself questioning things too much
I also found the different groups a little confusing, but that might be cleared up in latter books. I'm willing to try book 2 because again I love the idea of these books, but if the next one is full of simple tellings I doubt I'll continue on.
Story wise it was interesting. I enjoyed seeing how things played out, and the characters have all captured my interest.
The down side for me was both the simple way parts of the story came about (for example Blodwen) and the child like behaviour of Ayden and then Renny. I seem to have a problem with Mates being written as one large and manly and one small and childlike. Bratty is OK but when over done it spoils the mood for me. I also found myself questioning things too much
I also found the different groups a little confusing, but that might be cleared up in latter books. I'm willing to try book 2 because again I love the idea of these books, but if the next one is full of simple tellings I doubt I'll continue on.
May 7, 2021
Hilarious ssetting!
Q:
Aleksander seemed oblivious to her fluttering eyelids; clearly he was a man of sense. (c)
Q:
This is my familiar Ayden. I must apologize that he is not any taller than what he is; clearly he is no match for my power.
...
“I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who apologized for someone else’s height before, but then I don’t get out much.” (c)
Q:
It was his first blush in about seven hundred years. (c)
Q:
“You are insane. Good luck,” (c)
Q:
Q:
Aleksander seemed oblivious to her fluttering eyelids; clearly he was a man of sense. (c)
Q:
This is my familiar Ayden. I must apologize that he is not any taller than what he is; clearly he is no match for my power.
...
“I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who apologized for someone else’s height before, but then I don’t get out much.” (c)
Q:
It was his first blush in about seven hundred years. (c)
Q:
“You are insane. Good luck,” (c)
Q:
February 11, 2019
2.5-3/5
It got potential, but the story and its characters were just too juveniles for me. For characters that were meant to be centuries old, they sure act like pre-teens.
It got potential, but the story and its characters were just too juveniles for me. For characters that were meant to be centuries old, they sure act like pre-teens.
August 28, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
There are three parts of this story that stand out: The relationship, the plot, and the world building. And in all three of them there are good points and bad ones. The best of these, and arguably the most important, is the relationship between Ayden, Brogan, and Latarian. Ayden and Brogan have to overcome a rough start, they have to get to know one another as people even with the mystic force of the soul bond. Ayden has had to repress much of who he is, which makes being around Brogan difficult. He has to overcome 600 years of habit to show off who he really is. Brogan has to learn to accept that the person Fate has decided he’s supposed to love isn’t the idealized version of the prince he had in his head, and both of them have to deal with the reality of Latarian having absolute control over Ayden.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
There are three parts of this story that stand out: The relationship, the plot, and the world building. And in all three of them there are good points and bad ones. The best of these, and arguably the most important, is the relationship between Ayden, Brogan, and Latarian. Ayden and Brogan have to overcome a rough start, they have to get to know one another as people even with the mystic force of the soul bond. Ayden has had to repress much of who he is, which makes being around Brogan difficult. He has to overcome 600 years of habit to show off who he really is. Brogan has to learn to accept that the person Fate has decided he’s supposed to love isn’t the idealized version of the prince he had in his head, and both of them have to deal with the reality of Latarian having absolute control over Ayden.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
Read
January 28, 2020DNF! Time of death: 12%
The writing is atrocious and the characters are not well executed.
I just couldn't do it and I was excited for some high fantasy but was sorely disappointed.
No rating since I couldn't muster the stamina to get through it.
The writing is atrocious and the characters are not well executed.
I just couldn't do it and I was excited for some high fantasy but was sorely disappointed.
No rating since I couldn't muster the stamina to get through it.
September 19, 2015
(This book was received free from the author in return for an honest review via the Goodreads Don't Buy My Love program.)
3-4 stars
Grand Redemption opens with Lariat (a female warlock) and Ayden (her human familiar) going into hiding per her grandfather's instructions and insistence. There they resided for over 650 years. They go in in 1350 and emerge into our modern society, but not exactly. Yes, there's the typical unknowing humans (which we never meet), but there's a whole world inhabited also by shifters and necromancers, sententials and magic users.
Ayden and Lariat are welcomed in the home and family of Court D'Vairedraconis, a family of dragon shifters, who also happen to have separated themselves out from the world because of some long-done curse. After living there some time, a traveling member of the family returns. Enter Brogan, Duke of the D'Vaire family and, SURPRISE, Ayden's fated mate.
Brogan, however, while excited, precedes to act like a complete and utter fool. (Insert typical storyline drama here.) Ayden's snippy and steadfast personality doesn't help matters. (Insert more drama.)Once the boys finally get their act together, the rest of the story goes through some interesting twists and turns that kept me thoroughly entertained.
The problem was I often found myself frowning and grimacing with both poor grammar or wording or dialogue between the characters. The POVs jumped around with a totally third person omnipotence view of the events. And there was more than one shake of head and an "OMG, I can't believe they just said or did that." Each time it yanked me out of the story.
In the end, the actually writing was a 3, but the storyline definitely deserves a 4.
3-4 stars
Grand Redemption opens with Lariat (a female warlock) and Ayden (her human familiar) going into hiding per her grandfather's instructions and insistence. There they resided for over 650 years. They go in in 1350 and emerge into our modern society, but not exactly. Yes, there's the typical unknowing humans (which we never meet), but there's a whole world inhabited also by shifters and necromancers, sententials and magic users.
Ayden and Lariat are welcomed in the home and family of Court D'Vairedraconis, a family of dragon shifters, who also happen to have separated themselves out from the world because of some long-done curse. After living there some time, a traveling member of the family returns. Enter Brogan, Duke of the D'Vaire family and, SURPRISE, Ayden's fated mate.
Brogan, however, while excited, precedes to act like a complete and utter fool. (Insert typical storyline drama here.) Ayden's snippy and steadfast personality doesn't help matters. (Insert more drama.)Once the boys finally get their act together, the rest of the story goes through some interesting twists and turns that kept me thoroughly entertained.
The problem was I often found myself frowning and grimacing with both poor grammar or wording or dialogue between the characters. The POVs jumped around with a totally third person omnipotence view of the events. And there was more than one shake of head and an "OMG, I can't believe they just said or did that." Each time it yanked me out of the story.
In the end, the actually writing was a 3, but the storyline definitely deserves a 4.
April 30, 2020
Rating: 4 stars
I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book at first. The names were a bit confusing in the beginning, but I liked it more and more. I love books were the characters banter with each other and there was plenty of that throughout the story. I loved that even though Latarian tried and tried to break Ayden she wasn’t able to. I loved both Ayden and Brogan. Loved their interactions. I also loved all the supporting characters and hope we see more of them in future books. All in all, a really great start to D'Vaire series.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book at first. The names were a bit confusing in the beginning, but I liked it more and more. I love books were the characters banter with each other and there was plenty of that throughout the story. I loved that even though Latarian tried and tried to break Ayden she wasn’t able to. I loved both Ayden and Brogan. Loved their interactions. I also loved all the supporting characters and hope we see more of them in future books. All in all, a really great start to D'Vaire series.
December 29, 2018
Loved this book and the characters!
This book was written perfectly and was impossible to put down. One of the characters was so evil I cannot wait for her to get hers. The other characters are so fun and loving and accepting of the other self proclaimed ‘misfits’ in the house, it will be great to witness their family growing as the stories continue. Can’t wait to read the next one!!
This book was written perfectly and was impossible to put down. One of the characters was so evil I cannot wait for her to get hers. The other characters are so fun and loving and accepting of the other self proclaimed ‘misfits’ in the house, it will be great to witness their family growing as the stories continue. Can’t wait to read the next one!!
August 30, 2018
*3.5 stars*
Review in English and in Polish || Recenzja po angielsku i polsku
XIV century:
As a son of Grand Warlock and Grand Summoner, Dra'Kaedan has enormous magical power and undoubtedly a bright future ahead. But when Carvallius, a warlock with a great lust for power, lures him into a trap, everything changes. Dra'Kaedan is transformed into a familiar and, at the same time, serves as "a magic battery" that powers Latarian, a granddaughter of the evil warlock, with weak magical abilities. When the shadow of war hangs over the magical world, Carvallius sends his granddaughter and Dra'Kaedan, devoid of all memories and now known as Ayden, to the enchanted cottage in the forest.
Modern times:
Brogan D'Vairedraconis, a shapeshifter or more precisely a dragon, for centuries belongs to a tiny court consisting of misfits who in various ways are different from other members of their race. Although he was surrounded by people who love him, the family he had chosen, the desire to find his other half was strong enough to force Brogan to leave his relatives and start searching for his true love. When, after years of fruitless wandering, the dragon concerned about well being of his beloved ones returns home, he discovers that his family took under their wing not just some warlock and her familiar, but his fated mate for whom he has waited for ages. The problem is that Brogan imagined his ideal partner to be a bit different.
"Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is a completely new first volume of the already existing and currently consisting of eight parts series "D'Vaire". Jessamyn Kingley decided that Dra'Kaedan and Brogan deserve their story to be retell and, although it was my first time reading about them, I believe that the author made the right decision. Nevertheless, this new first volume is not entirely perfect and although it has undoubted advantages, it also has its smaller and bigger cons. One of them is the intrigue presented in the novel or more precisely, as the idea itself is great, its development. I admit that to the very end I hoped that one of the characters would start to sniff around Carvallius's story or look for answers to questions about Ayden's uniqueness as a familiar, and that's how they would discover the boy's true identity or just guess that maybe he's not who they think he is. After all, the members of Court D'Vaire lived under the same roof with the granddaughter of someone considered to be a traitor to his race and Ayden was nothing like what they all knew about familiars. Is it not a sufficient reason to become suspicious and inquisitive? Anyway, I really hoped that the intrigue presented in this volume will be developed like that or in a similar way, and thanks to it, it will keep the reader in suspense, just like in a Polish saying that "it's not about catching a bunny, but about chasing it" (meaning: the real fun is to chase, not to catch). Unfortunately, everything just solves itself at the end of the volume without full exploration of the potential of the intrigue that the characters face. And that is really a pity.
As for the plot of the novel, it is quite simple and uncomplicated but also well enough created and quite interesting. It focuses mainly on presenting some spectacular and funny love quarrels between Ayden and Brogan, and consequently, on slowly building their closer relationship. In this context, I think one of the most important facts is that although the main characters are fated mates, they do not blindly do what they are supposed to do, but they come to conclusions regarding their relationship by themselves. We can probably say that they treat their mates status as a mere proposal of Fate, as they decide to make their own decision regardless of their love destiny. This is a really huge advantage of "Dra'Kaedan's Coven", just like the fact that Ayden and Brogan have the opportunity to get to know each other better and to fall in love with each other before finally forming a bond. You may find me not very romantic, but I think that before two people start a serious relationship, they should first get to know each other well, and that's why I was captivated by this aspect of the book.
What I consider the greatest advantage of "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is this series universe. I regret that we do not get to know it better in this volume, but I must admit that it is quite interesting and encourages us to further exploration. What I find extremely fascinating is the fact that at some point we unexpectedly jump from pure fantasy into the urban fantasy genre and that shows how powerful magic is in the world of "D'Vaire" and how unpredictable it can be. I really can't wait for the moment when I will be able to explore its possibilities more profoundly. What is more, in the first volume of the series we can see that this universe we slowly discover is full of various paranormal races, such as warlocks, witches, shapeshifters, elves, and familiars. However, their very existence is not all I like in this book, because for me the most enchanting thing is the idea of a larger institution that establishes laws, protects the order and keeps an eye on the whole magical community. In short, I think I fell in love with the universe created by Jessamyn Kingley and I would really like to read more novels from this series. However, there's one "but" here. Namely, the fact that we learn about "D'Vaire" universe through talks of characters, not through the action of the novel, and this is a huge loss for this book.
Finally, a few words about the impact the characters have on the reader, as I really think it is an interesting and quite funny case. For although the characters in this novel are undoubtedly interesting and likable, they don't take our hearts by storm. And yet they were created and presented in such a way that we simply want to know more about them, be closer to them. And it's not just about getting to know them by reading more novels from "D'Vaire" series, but to do it from a fandom perspective. The author has made sure that we know quite well what the characters look like, what they like or what kind of behavior suits them best, and all of this affects the fangirl's mind so strongly that it's even hard to imagine. The best proof of it is the influence that "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" had on me. I admit that when it comes to drawing, I'm not particularly good at it, but since I've read about Jessamyn Kingley's characters, I feel the irresistible need to reach for a pencil and a piece of paper to create some fanarts from this series (and at some point I will probably do it). What's more, I would be pleased to write some fanfictions set in this universe. So if we look at "D'Vaire" series from the first volume perspective, we can clearly see that it's this kind of series that should have its own fandom.
To sum up, "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is not a bad novel that, despite its simplicity, can captivate the reader, above all by the first outline of its fictional universe. In addition, the author can create her characters in such a way that, although they don't make us forget how to breathe, they seem to whisper silently in our ear: "read on", "reach for the next volume" and we can't refuse them. In short, it's just one of those books that have "this something" we can't resist.
________________________
XIV wiek:
Jako syn Wielkiego Czarownika oraz Wielkiej Przywoływaczki, Dra’Kaedan dysponuje ogromną mocą magiczną i niewątpliwie ma przed sobą świetlaną przyszłość. Kiedy jednak zostaje zwabiony w pułapkę przez ogarniętego żądzą władzy czarownika Carvalliusa, wszystko ulega zmianie. Dra’Kaedan zostaje przemieniony w chowańca i jednocześnie pełni rolę „magicznej baterii” zasilającej posiadającą tylko niewielką moc Latarian, wnuczkę mężczyzny. Kiedy nad światem magicznym wisi widmo wojny, Carvallius odsyła swoją wnuczkę oraz Dra’Kaedana, pozbawionego wszystkich wspomnień i noszącego teraz imię Ayden, do zaczarowanej chaty w lesie.
Czasy współczesne:
Będący zmiennokształtnym, a dokładniej smokiem, Brogan D’Vairedraconis, od wieków należy do niewielkiego dworu składającego się z odmieńców, którzy w różnym stopniu odstają od innych członków swojej rasy. Chociaż był otoczony przez kochających go ludzi, rodzinę, którą sam wybrał, pragnienie odnalezienia drugiej połówki było na tyle silne, że zmusiło Brogana do opuszczenia bliskich i rozpoczęcia czynnych poszukiwań. Kiedy po latach bezowocnej tułaczki smok wraca do domu zaniepokojony informacjami jakie stamtąd otrzymał, odkrywa, że jego rodzina przygarnęła pod swoje skrzydła nie tyle czarownika oraz jego chowańca, ile przeznaczonego mu przez Los partnera, na którego od tak dawna czekał. Problem w tym, że Brogan nie tak wyobrażał sobie swój ideał.
„Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” to zupełnie nowy pierwszy tom istniejącej już i liczącej na dzień dzisiejszy osiem części serii „D’Vaire”. Jessamyn Kingley uznała, że Dra’Kaedan i Brogan zasługują na to, aby ich historię opowiedzieć na nowo i chociaż dla mnie było to pierwsze z nimi spotkanie, wierzę, że autorka podjęła słuszną decyzję. Niemniej jednak, nowa odsłona pierwszego tomu nie jest do końca perfekcyjna i chociaż posiada niewątpliwe zalety, ma także swoje mniejsze i większe wady. Jedną z nich jest przedstawiona w powieści intryga, a dokładniej mówiąc, jako że pomysł sam w sobie jest świetny, jej rozwinięcie. Przyznaję, że do samego końca miałam nadzieję, iż któraś z postaci zacznie węszyć wokół historii Carvalliusa lub szukać odpowiedzi na pytania dotyczące wyjątkowości Aydena jako chowańca i właśnie w ten sposób odkryje prawdziwą tożsamość chłopaka lub chociaż domyśli się, że może nie być tym, za kogo jest uważany. W końcu członkowie dworu D’Vaire zamieszkali pod jednym dachem z wnuczką mężczyzny uznawanego za zdrajcę swojej rasy, zaś Ayden na każdym kroku zaprzeczał wszystkiemu, co wiedziano do tej pory o chowańcach. Czy to nie wystarczający powód aby stać się podejrzliwym i dociekliwym? W każdym bądź razie, naprawdę liczyłam na to, że przedstawiona w tym tomie intryga będzie konstruowana w taki lub podobny sposób, dzięki czemu będzie trzymać czytelnika w napięciu, w myśl polskiego powiedzenia, że „nie o to chodzi by złapać króliczka, ale by gonić go”. Tymczasem wszystko tak naprawdę po prostu samo się rozwiązuje pod koniec tomu, nie wykorzystując w pełni potencjału intrygi, z jaką mamy do czynienia, a to naprawdę wielka szkoda.
Co się zaś tyczy samej fabuły powieści, jest ona wprawdzie dosyć prosta i nieskomplikowana, ale też nie najgorzej tworzona i całkiem interesująca. Skupia się w głównej mierze na przedstawieniu nierzadko efektownych i zabawnych miłosnych podchodów Aydena oraz Brogana, a co za tym idzie, na budowaniu ich bliższej relacji. Za naprawdę istotny w tym kontekście fakt uważam to, że chociaż główni bohaterowie są przeznaczonymi sobie przez Los partnerami, nie są ślepo zapatrzeni w to, co zostało im narzucone, ale samodzielnie dochodzą do dotyczących ich związku wniosków. Można nawet pokusić się o stwierdzenie, że swój status partnerów traktują jako zwykłą propozycję Losu, jako że decyzję o połączeniu się więzią podejmują samodzielnie, niezależnie od uczuciowego przeznaczenia. To naprawdę ogromna zaleta „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven”, podobnie jak to, że Ayden i Brogan poznają się bliżej i mają okazję się w sobie nawzajem zakochać, zanim ostatecznie połączą się więzią. Możecie uznać mnie za osobę mało romantyczną, ale uważam, że zanim dwoje ludzi zacznie tworzyć poważny związek, powinno najpierw dobrze się poznać. Właśnie dlatego tak ujął mnie ten aspekt związku ukazany w książce.
Tym, co uważam za największą zaletę „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” jest świat przedstawiony. Wprawdzie bardzo żałuję, że w tym tomie nie poznajemy go lepiej, ale muszę przyznać, że już teraz prezentuje się całkiem interesująco i zachęca do dalszego jego zgłębiania. Niezwykle fascynujący jest według mnie fakt tego, że w pewnym momencie niespodziewanie z czystej fantastyki przeskakujemy do gatunku urban fantasy, co pokazuje jak potężna jest magia w świecie „D’Vaire” i jak bardzo bywa nieprzewidywalna. Naprawdę nie mogę doczekać się chwili, kiedy zdołam poznać lepiej jej możliwości. Mało tego, już w pierwszym tomie serii widzimy, że uniwersum, w którym się znajdujemy pełne jest przeróżnych paranormalnych ras, jak chociażby czarownicy, wiedźmy, zmiennokształtni, elfy, chowańce. Samo ich istnienie to jednak nie wszystko, ponieważ tym, co oczarowało mnie najbardziej jest idea większej instytucji, która ustanawia prawa, strzeże porządku, ma na oku całą magiczną społeczność. Krótko mówiąc, sądzę, że zakochałam się w świecie stworzonym przez Jessamyn Kingley i naprawdę chciałabym przeczytać kolejne powieści z tej serii. Mam tylko jedno „ale”. A mianowicie fakt, iż uniwersum „D’Vaire” poznajemy raczej poprzez rozmowy bohaterów, nie zaś poprzez akcję powieści, a to ogromna strata dla tej książki.
Na koniec kilka słów o wpływie jaki bohaterowie wywierają na czytelnika, jako że naprawdę uważam to za ciekawy i dosyć zabawny przypadek. Albowiem choć niewątpliwie bohaterowie tej powieści są interesujący i dają się lubić, to nie sieją szczególnego spustoszenia w naszych sercach. A jednak zostali stworzeni i przedstawieni w taki sposób, że aż chce się wiedzieć o nich więcej, być bliżej nich. I nie chodzi tylko o poznawanie ich poprzez czytanie kolejnych powieści z serii „D’Vaire”, ale o poznawanie ich z perspektywy fandomu. Autorka zadbała o to, abyśmy dobrze wiedzieli jak wyglądają, co lubią, jakie zachowania do nich pasują, a wszystko to niewyobrażalnie silnie działa na fangirlowy umysł. Najlepszym dowodem na to jest wpływ, jaki „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” miało chociażby na mnie. Przyznaję, że jeśli chodzi o rysunek to nie jestem w tym szczególnie dobra, ale od kiedy poznałam bohaterów Jessamyn Kingley, czuję nieodpartą potrzebę sięgnięcia po ołówek i blok celem stworzenia jakiegoś fanartu z tej serii (i w pewnym momencie zapewne to zrobię). Co więcej, z rozkoszą pokusiłabym się nawet o napisanie jakiegoś fanfiction. Jeśli więc spojrzeć na serię „D’Vaire” z perspektywy pierwszego tomu, to aż prosi się ona o zbudowanie wokół niej fandomu. Nie wiem jak Jessamyn Kingley to robi, ale niewątpliwie ma talent do kuszenia swoją twórczością.
Podsumowując, „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” to nie najgorsza powieść, która mimo swojej prostoty potrafi ująć czytelnika przede wszystkim już pierwszym zarysem świata przedstawionego. Ponadto, autorka potrafi kreować swoich bohaterów w taki sposób, że chociaż nie zwalają nas z nóg to jednak wydają się szeptać nam do ucha ciche: „czytaj dalej”, „skuś się na kolejny tom”, a my nie potrafimy im odmówić. Krótko mówiąc, to jedna z tych książek, które po prostu mają w sobie „to coś”.
Review in English and in Polish || Recenzja po angielsku i polsku
XIV century:
As a son of Grand Warlock and Grand Summoner, Dra'Kaedan has enormous magical power and undoubtedly a bright future ahead. But when Carvallius, a warlock with a great lust for power, lures him into a trap, everything changes. Dra'Kaedan is transformed into a familiar and, at the same time, serves as "a magic battery" that powers Latarian, a granddaughter of the evil warlock, with weak magical abilities. When the shadow of war hangs over the magical world, Carvallius sends his granddaughter and Dra'Kaedan, devoid of all memories and now known as Ayden, to the enchanted cottage in the forest.
Modern times:
Brogan D'Vairedraconis, a shapeshifter or more precisely a dragon, for centuries belongs to a tiny court consisting of misfits who in various ways are different from other members of their race. Although he was surrounded by people who love him, the family he had chosen, the desire to find his other half was strong enough to force Brogan to leave his relatives and start searching for his true love. When, after years of fruitless wandering, the dragon concerned about well being of his beloved ones returns home, he discovers that his family took under their wing not just some warlock and her familiar, but his fated mate for whom he has waited for ages. The problem is that Brogan imagined his ideal partner to be a bit different.
"Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is a completely new first volume of the already existing and currently consisting of eight parts series "D'Vaire". Jessamyn Kingley decided that Dra'Kaedan and Brogan deserve their story to be retell and, although it was my first time reading about them, I believe that the author made the right decision. Nevertheless, this new first volume is not entirely perfect and although it has undoubted advantages, it also has its smaller and bigger cons. One of them is the intrigue presented in the novel or more precisely, as the idea itself is great, its development. I admit that to the very end I hoped that one of the characters would start to sniff around Carvallius's story or look for answers to questions about Ayden's uniqueness as a familiar, and that's how they would discover the boy's true identity or just guess that maybe he's not who they think he is. After all, the members of Court D'Vaire lived under the same roof with the granddaughter of someone considered to be a traitor to his race and Ayden was nothing like what they all knew about familiars. Is it not a sufficient reason to become suspicious and inquisitive? Anyway, I really hoped that the intrigue presented in this volume will be developed like that or in a similar way, and thanks to it, it will keep the reader in suspense, just like in a Polish saying that "it's not about catching a bunny, but about chasing it" (meaning: the real fun is to chase, not to catch). Unfortunately, everything just solves itself at the end of the volume without full exploration of the potential of the intrigue that the characters face. And that is really a pity.
As for the plot of the novel, it is quite simple and uncomplicated but also well enough created and quite interesting. It focuses mainly on presenting some spectacular and funny love quarrels between Ayden and Brogan, and consequently, on slowly building their closer relationship. In this context, I think one of the most important facts is that although the main characters are fated mates, they do not blindly do what they are supposed to do, but they come to conclusions regarding their relationship by themselves. We can probably say that they treat their mates status as a mere proposal of Fate, as they decide to make their own decision regardless of their love destiny. This is a really huge advantage of "Dra'Kaedan's Coven", just like the fact that Ayden and Brogan have the opportunity to get to know each other better and to fall in love with each other before finally forming a bond. You may find me not very romantic, but I think that before two people start a serious relationship, they should first get to know each other well, and that's why I was captivated by this aspect of the book.
What I consider the greatest advantage of "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is this series universe. I regret that we do not get to know it better in this volume, but I must admit that it is quite interesting and encourages us to further exploration. What I find extremely fascinating is the fact that at some point we unexpectedly jump from pure fantasy into the urban fantasy genre and that shows how powerful magic is in the world of "D'Vaire" and how unpredictable it can be. I really can't wait for the moment when I will be able to explore its possibilities more profoundly. What is more, in the first volume of the series we can see that this universe we slowly discover is full of various paranormal races, such as warlocks, witches, shapeshifters, elves, and familiars. However, their very existence is not all I like in this book, because for me the most enchanting thing is the idea of a larger institution that establishes laws, protects the order and keeps an eye on the whole magical community. In short, I think I fell in love with the universe created by Jessamyn Kingley and I would really like to read more novels from this series. However, there's one "but" here. Namely, the fact that we learn about "D'Vaire" universe through talks of characters, not through the action of the novel, and this is a huge loss for this book.
Finally, a few words about the impact the characters have on the reader, as I really think it is an interesting and quite funny case. For although the characters in this novel are undoubtedly interesting and likable, they don't take our hearts by storm. And yet they were created and presented in such a way that we simply want to know more about them, be closer to them. And it's not just about getting to know them by reading more novels from "D'Vaire" series, but to do it from a fandom perspective. The author has made sure that we know quite well what the characters look like, what they like or what kind of behavior suits them best, and all of this affects the fangirl's mind so strongly that it's even hard to imagine. The best proof of it is the influence that "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" had on me. I admit that when it comes to drawing, I'm not particularly good at it, but since I've read about Jessamyn Kingley's characters, I feel the irresistible need to reach for a pencil and a piece of paper to create some fanarts from this series (and at some point I will probably do it). What's more, I would be pleased to write some fanfictions set in this universe. So if we look at "D'Vaire" series from the first volume perspective, we can clearly see that it's this kind of series that should have its own fandom.
To sum up, "Dra'Kaedan's Coven" is not a bad novel that, despite its simplicity, can captivate the reader, above all by the first outline of its fictional universe. In addition, the author can create her characters in such a way that, although they don't make us forget how to breathe, they seem to whisper silently in our ear: "read on", "reach for the next volume" and we can't refuse them. In short, it's just one of those books that have "this something" we can't resist.
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XIV wiek:
Jako syn Wielkiego Czarownika oraz Wielkiej Przywoływaczki, Dra’Kaedan dysponuje ogromną mocą magiczną i niewątpliwie ma przed sobą świetlaną przyszłość. Kiedy jednak zostaje zwabiony w pułapkę przez ogarniętego żądzą władzy czarownika Carvalliusa, wszystko ulega zmianie. Dra’Kaedan zostaje przemieniony w chowańca i jednocześnie pełni rolę „magicznej baterii” zasilającej posiadającą tylko niewielką moc Latarian, wnuczkę mężczyzny. Kiedy nad światem magicznym wisi widmo wojny, Carvallius odsyła swoją wnuczkę oraz Dra’Kaedana, pozbawionego wszystkich wspomnień i noszącego teraz imię Ayden, do zaczarowanej chaty w lesie.
Czasy współczesne:
Będący zmiennokształtnym, a dokładniej smokiem, Brogan D’Vairedraconis, od wieków należy do niewielkiego dworu składającego się z odmieńców, którzy w różnym stopniu odstają od innych członków swojej rasy. Chociaż był otoczony przez kochających go ludzi, rodzinę, którą sam wybrał, pragnienie odnalezienia drugiej połówki było na tyle silne, że zmusiło Brogana do opuszczenia bliskich i rozpoczęcia czynnych poszukiwań. Kiedy po latach bezowocnej tułaczki smok wraca do domu zaniepokojony informacjami jakie stamtąd otrzymał, odkrywa, że jego rodzina przygarnęła pod swoje skrzydła nie tyle czarownika oraz jego chowańca, ile przeznaczonego mu przez Los partnera, na którego od tak dawna czekał. Problem w tym, że Brogan nie tak wyobrażał sobie swój ideał.
„Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” to zupełnie nowy pierwszy tom istniejącej już i liczącej na dzień dzisiejszy osiem części serii „D’Vaire”. Jessamyn Kingley uznała, że Dra’Kaedan i Brogan zasługują na to, aby ich historię opowiedzieć na nowo i chociaż dla mnie było to pierwsze z nimi spotkanie, wierzę, że autorka podjęła słuszną decyzję. Niemniej jednak, nowa odsłona pierwszego tomu nie jest do końca perfekcyjna i chociaż posiada niewątpliwe zalety, ma także swoje mniejsze i większe wady. Jedną z nich jest przedstawiona w powieści intryga, a dokładniej mówiąc, jako że pomysł sam w sobie jest świetny, jej rozwinięcie. Przyznaję, że do samego końca miałam nadzieję, iż któraś z postaci zacznie węszyć wokół historii Carvalliusa lub szukać odpowiedzi na pytania dotyczące wyjątkowości Aydena jako chowańca i właśnie w ten sposób odkryje prawdziwą tożsamość chłopaka lub chociaż domyśli się, że może nie być tym, za kogo jest uważany. W końcu członkowie dworu D’Vaire zamieszkali pod jednym dachem z wnuczką mężczyzny uznawanego za zdrajcę swojej rasy, zaś Ayden na każdym kroku zaprzeczał wszystkiemu, co wiedziano do tej pory o chowańcach. Czy to nie wystarczający powód aby stać się podejrzliwym i dociekliwym? W każdym bądź razie, naprawdę liczyłam na to, że przedstawiona w tym tomie intryga będzie konstruowana w taki lub podobny sposób, dzięki czemu będzie trzymać czytelnika w napięciu, w myśl polskiego powiedzenia, że „nie o to chodzi by złapać króliczka, ale by gonić go”. Tymczasem wszystko tak naprawdę po prostu samo się rozwiązuje pod koniec tomu, nie wykorzystując w pełni potencjału intrygi, z jaką mamy do czynienia, a to naprawdę wielka szkoda.
Co się zaś tyczy samej fabuły powieści, jest ona wprawdzie dosyć prosta i nieskomplikowana, ale też nie najgorzej tworzona i całkiem interesująca. Skupia się w głównej mierze na przedstawieniu nierzadko efektownych i zabawnych miłosnych podchodów Aydena oraz Brogana, a co za tym idzie, na budowaniu ich bliższej relacji. Za naprawdę istotny w tym kontekście fakt uważam to, że chociaż główni bohaterowie są przeznaczonymi sobie przez Los partnerami, nie są ślepo zapatrzeni w to, co zostało im narzucone, ale samodzielnie dochodzą do dotyczących ich związku wniosków. Można nawet pokusić się o stwierdzenie, że swój status partnerów traktują jako zwykłą propozycję Losu, jako że decyzję o połączeniu się więzią podejmują samodzielnie, niezależnie od uczuciowego przeznaczenia. To naprawdę ogromna zaleta „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven”, podobnie jak to, że Ayden i Brogan poznają się bliżej i mają okazję się w sobie nawzajem zakochać, zanim ostatecznie połączą się więzią. Możecie uznać mnie za osobę mało romantyczną, ale uważam, że zanim dwoje ludzi zacznie tworzyć poważny związek, powinno najpierw dobrze się poznać. Właśnie dlatego tak ujął mnie ten aspekt związku ukazany w książce.
Tym, co uważam za największą zaletę „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” jest świat przedstawiony. Wprawdzie bardzo żałuję, że w tym tomie nie poznajemy go lepiej, ale muszę przyznać, że już teraz prezentuje się całkiem interesująco i zachęca do dalszego jego zgłębiania. Niezwykle fascynujący jest według mnie fakt tego, że w pewnym momencie niespodziewanie z czystej fantastyki przeskakujemy do gatunku urban fantasy, co pokazuje jak potężna jest magia w świecie „D’Vaire” i jak bardzo bywa nieprzewidywalna. Naprawdę nie mogę doczekać się chwili, kiedy zdołam poznać lepiej jej możliwości. Mało tego, już w pierwszym tomie serii widzimy, że uniwersum, w którym się znajdujemy pełne jest przeróżnych paranormalnych ras, jak chociażby czarownicy, wiedźmy, zmiennokształtni, elfy, chowańce. Samo ich istnienie to jednak nie wszystko, ponieważ tym, co oczarowało mnie najbardziej jest idea większej instytucji, która ustanawia prawa, strzeże porządku, ma na oku całą magiczną społeczność. Krótko mówiąc, sądzę, że zakochałam się w świecie stworzonym przez Jessamyn Kingley i naprawdę chciałabym przeczytać kolejne powieści z tej serii. Mam tylko jedno „ale”. A mianowicie fakt, iż uniwersum „D’Vaire” poznajemy raczej poprzez rozmowy bohaterów, nie zaś poprzez akcję powieści, a to ogromna strata dla tej książki.
Na koniec kilka słów o wpływie jaki bohaterowie wywierają na czytelnika, jako że naprawdę uważam to za ciekawy i dosyć zabawny przypadek. Albowiem choć niewątpliwie bohaterowie tej powieści są interesujący i dają się lubić, to nie sieją szczególnego spustoszenia w naszych sercach. A jednak zostali stworzeni i przedstawieni w taki sposób, że aż chce się wiedzieć o nich więcej, być bliżej nich. I nie chodzi tylko o poznawanie ich poprzez czytanie kolejnych powieści z serii „D’Vaire”, ale o poznawanie ich z perspektywy fandomu. Autorka zadbała o to, abyśmy dobrze wiedzieli jak wyglądają, co lubią, jakie zachowania do nich pasują, a wszystko to niewyobrażalnie silnie działa na fangirlowy umysł. Najlepszym dowodem na to jest wpływ, jaki „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” miało chociażby na mnie. Przyznaję, że jeśli chodzi o rysunek to nie jestem w tym szczególnie dobra, ale od kiedy poznałam bohaterów Jessamyn Kingley, czuję nieodpartą potrzebę sięgnięcia po ołówek i blok celem stworzenia jakiegoś fanartu z tej serii (i w pewnym momencie zapewne to zrobię). Co więcej, z rozkoszą pokusiłabym się nawet o napisanie jakiegoś fanfiction. Jeśli więc spojrzeć na serię „D’Vaire” z perspektywy pierwszego tomu, to aż prosi się ona o zbudowanie wokół niej fandomu. Nie wiem jak Jessamyn Kingley to robi, ale niewątpliwie ma talent do kuszenia swoją twórczością.
Podsumowując, „Dra’Kaedan’s Coven” to nie najgorsza powieść, która mimo swojej prostoty potrafi ująć czytelnika przede wszystkim już pierwszym zarysem świata przedstawionego. Ponadto, autorka potrafi kreować swoich bohaterów w taki sposób, że chociaż nie zwalają nas z nóg to jednak wydają się szeptać nam do ucha ciche: „czytaj dalej”, „skuś się na kolejny tom”, a my nie potrafimy im odmówić. Krótko mówiąc, to jedna z tych książek, które po prostu mają w sobie „to coś”.
November 6, 2018
This was a great plot driven book with amazing world building...
I was hooked from the beginning but incredibly anxious the entire way through. The beginning starts out with a bang and all’s I could think was “Oh no they’s didn’t...” with a sassy snap and hip pop.
We start out with a young warlock prince, that’s just dreaming about dragons and mates, being tricked and trapped into centuries of slavery for a complete cunt. (Not sorry about my language...) Not only is his magic and freewill taken from him but also his memories.
As the plot advances our sweet warlock finally gets somewhat of break but is still fighting for everything he has. I was so sad for Dra’Kaedan/Ayden and anxiously waiting his redemption...
Pretty sure I just rehashed the blurb rather than actually reviews the book but that’s all I’m actually doing to say. Although I did feel the book slowed down and dragged at points I still think it was a fantastic tale that’s worth a read without spoilers.
Also when looking at reviews I would look for the more recent ones. According the authors notes it seems she completely redid this book from its original. I guess this was her first book and she felt it wasn’t up to par with her current writing so she decided to redo it. Which major props by the way, I love it when authors come into their own and the fact she decided to say “hey I love that this was my first, but I know I can make better” speaks volumes to me.
Anyways, I can’t say how this version compares to the old one. But I would assume the old reviews are still outdated and some items may not compare to the new story.
I was hooked from the beginning but incredibly anxious the entire way through. The beginning starts out with a bang and all’s I could think was “Oh no they’s didn’t...” with a sassy snap and hip pop.
We start out with a young warlock prince, that’s just dreaming about dragons and mates, being tricked and trapped into centuries of slavery for a complete cunt. (Not sorry about my language...) Not only is his magic and freewill taken from him but also his memories.
As the plot advances our sweet warlock finally gets somewhat of break but is still fighting for everything he has. I was so sad for Dra’Kaedan/Ayden and anxiously waiting his redemption...
Pretty sure I just rehashed the blurb rather than actually reviews the book but that’s all I’m actually doing to say. Although I did feel the book slowed down and dragged at points I still think it was a fantastic tale that’s worth a read without spoilers.
Also when looking at reviews I would look for the more recent ones. According the authors notes it seems she completely redid this book from its original. I guess this was her first book and she felt it wasn’t up to par with her current writing so she decided to redo it. Which major props by the way, I love it when authors come into their own and the fact she decided to say “hey I love that this was my first, but I know I can make better” speaks volumes to me.
Anyways, I can’t say how this version compares to the old one. But I would assume the old reviews are still outdated and some items may not compare to the new story.
December 3, 2019
The story per se was good, but the feeling i get is that it was unncessarily slow and long. Also latarian, she is...i don't even know if you can consider her the antagonist, as she is such a stupid character.she don't want our 2 main character to come togheter so i though it would be that evil character who would try to thwart their growing relationship at every point, instead she is so lazy she can't even form a plan, you just see her rave in her bedroom without doing anything.
But overral it is a nice and mostly lighthearted story (yeah even with the lashing session i really can't consider it dark)
But overral it is a nice and mostly lighthearted story (yeah even with the lashing session i really can't consider it dark)
June 2, 2021
Rating (All ratings use a Scale of 1-5) = 3 Stars. The plot, the world, and the premise were 4 stars but the rest was definitely 2 stars: the writing was simplistic (this is after an "extensive rewrite"), the dialog both internal and external often felt stilted and without a natural flow. The potential was huge the execution, for me, left a lot to be desired. But overall, they balanced out into an average read.
Blurb = 4
My Genre Scale = 4.5
Odds if not your genre = 2
Development of: =
*World = 4
*Plot = 4
*Characters = 3.5
What stood out = Lots of things were intriguing, but when faced with this question... Nothing really came to mind.
Mood Type / Appeal to those looking for = Must be in the mood to just let go and read, to enjoy a story and not get bogged down in little things that might disrupt the flow. There is not a lot of actual shifted dragon in the story and it is not integral to the story other than as a plot device. But if in the mood, for a fantasy adventure that can be read like a "beach read" than this is your book.
Warnings = None
HFN/HEA = Definitely
Series Notes = 1st of over 20
*Reading on? Probably not. It's not that I am unwilling or feel the next shouldn't be read. I'm definitely curious, but just not curious enough (at least at this point.)
*Reading back to back? N/a
*Can be easily read without the previous? N/a
Rating Notes = (SubPlots, thoughts, etc... )
It almost felt like the flip side of "brain candy"; instead of the story feeling formulaic and simple, it was the writing. I stayed mostly engaged but not deeply engaged. For a first book, that had not been revised, it was probably exceptional. I did read through the reviews of the 24 remaining books. All the things I identified as both good and bad seem to remain throughout the books. I am just at a point where I want more depth and texture in my reading.
Since my mother had a major stroke in March 2021 (while we were in the starting stages of moving from GA to SC) , I really haven't been able to find the time or energy to review. I've also been doing a lot of rereading. I'm going to try and get back into the "swing" of things. Just maybe not at my usual pace
**************
Below is my philosophy on reviewing!
***************
1. I try to take into account and note common pet peeves often bemoaned by others.
2. "Brain candy' does not necessarily carry a negative connotation. (What is brain candy? Publishing industry 's version of pop music - Typically: formulaic, from a prolific author published often and quickly (like monthly), things escalate fast, and are often solved easily etc..) It has its uses: to pass time whet tired, on the beach, etc... The problem comes when "brain candy" is unexpected or even disguised.
3. Blurb rating purpose:
Like many readers, I do not like to think I'm reading one kind of story; just to end up with another. But...I also don't think a book should be docked stars for being as stated. If I don't like stories about "_________", and I choose to read it; I shouldn't give it 2 stars based JUST on my preferences. Unless... it wasn't clear in the blurb.
4. Other Factors that effect my perspective when reviewing:
Since 2009, I have exclusively read m/m. My 1st was in 2007. I am a Kindle diehard, and I never do audio for m/m. I read at least 100+ books a year - with an average length of 220± pages; but the total number of books is usually much higher. My Goodreads lifetime rating (at the start of 2021) was a 3.64 average for 1527 books. Which considering, one should be better at picking out books the more one reads, I feel is an accurate average. I have over 795 reviews within the m/m genre here on Goodreads.
November 10, 2022
Interesting and entertaining
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and it turned out to be pretty good, and I actually want to continue reading the series. The world the author has created it’s very interesting and compels me to continue reading, and I really like the characters and the world itself. However, no all good things are perfect, and I felt that I would have given it a 5 stars rating, if it wasn’t for how much the book dragged. I felt like a lot of the circumstances (which I am not going to get too much into detail because I don’t want to spoil it) could have been shortened a little and I would’ve still understood the plot and the story within the story.
I do understand that this is the first book of the series, and there needs to be a base and foundation for the stories to come, but it still took away some of the joy of reading this, to be stuck on the same situation for so long between Latarian and Dra’Keadan/Ayden (you’ll understand once you read it). I had to try really hard not to get annoyed and bore with the situation as it dragged for so long. Latarian and her stupidly long monologues were extremely annoying too. Also, like all stories that drag for more than 3 quarters of the book, most of the important events were all cramped at the end, and it frustrated me a little. Don’t get me wrong, It has a good ending, I just feel like it could have been better.
I do recommend reading it because as I said before, the world within the book and series it’s interesting and the characters are likable and cute. I even enjoyed reading enough to want to know more about the characters and how their lives turn out at the end. So if you like fantasy, romance and drama you’ll definitely like this book and who knows, maybe even the entire series.
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and it turned out to be pretty good, and I actually want to continue reading the series. The world the author has created it’s very interesting and compels me to continue reading, and I really like the characters and the world itself. However, no all good things are perfect, and I felt that I would have given it a 5 stars rating, if it wasn’t for how much the book dragged. I felt like a lot of the circumstances (which I am not going to get too much into detail because I don’t want to spoil it) could have been shortened a little and I would’ve still understood the plot and the story within the story.
I do understand that this is the first book of the series, and there needs to be a base and foundation for the stories to come, but it still took away some of the joy of reading this, to be stuck on the same situation for so long between Latarian and Dra’Keadan/Ayden (you’ll understand once you read it). I had to try really hard not to get annoyed and bore with the situation as it dragged for so long. Latarian and her stupidly long monologues were extremely annoying too. Also, like all stories that drag for more than 3 quarters of the book, most of the important events were all cramped at the end, and it frustrated me a little. Don’t get me wrong, It has a good ending, I just feel like it could have been better.
I do recommend reading it because as I said before, the world within the book and series it’s interesting and the characters are likable and cute. I even enjoyed reading enough to want to know more about the characters and how their lives turn out at the end. So if you like fantasy, romance and drama you’ll definitely like this book and who knows, maybe even the entire series.
September 2, 2018
This book is well written and vividly described by the author. Every detail is authentic and form important parts to the story. The details, atmosphere and the colourful characters, make this book an exciting read.
Ayden is a witches familiar. Unbeknown to him, he was captured, a spell placed on him. Tying him and his powerful magic to Latarian.
Latarian is power hungry and sadistic witch, who belittles Ayden and whips him for things that are not in his control, and often very minor mistakes. They spend 1,000’s of years hidden in an enchanted cottage, after being sent there by Her grandfather.
Eventually They both decide they have been there too long and ask fate to point them to somewhere safe.
They arrive at Court D’Vaire, which is a court of Dragons. They are welcomed with open arms. The king promises them safety, but when Latarian barates Ayden, she is forced to accept that Ayden will have the right to speak his mind. And when the Kings righthand man returns from his hunt for his fated mate. Things start to unravel for the spoilt witch.
It is soon obvious that Ayden and Brogan are fated mates. Latarian starts to plot and manipulate Ayden against Brogan. But they build their relationship as her attempts keep failing and she gets more desperate to keep Aydens true identity hidden.
This is an intense and epic adventure and romance, with a wonderful paranormal and magical world. There is bratty banter between the once shy Ayden and his mate, and an endless list they keep of pro’s and cons of their relationship.
There are many touching and often sad moments, especially later in the story, but I am not going to spoil this read by talking about the scene.
Ayden is a witches familiar. Unbeknown to him, he was captured, a spell placed on him. Tying him and his powerful magic to Latarian.
Latarian is power hungry and sadistic witch, who belittles Ayden and whips him for things that are not in his control, and often very minor mistakes. They spend 1,000’s of years hidden in an enchanted cottage, after being sent there by Her grandfather.
Eventually They both decide they have been there too long and ask fate to point them to somewhere safe.
They arrive at Court D’Vaire, which is a court of Dragons. They are welcomed with open arms. The king promises them safety, but when Latarian barates Ayden, she is forced to accept that Ayden will have the right to speak his mind. And when the Kings righthand man returns from his hunt for his fated mate. Things start to unravel for the spoilt witch.
It is soon obvious that Ayden and Brogan are fated mates. Latarian starts to plot and manipulate Ayden against Brogan. But they build their relationship as her attempts keep failing and she gets more desperate to keep Aydens true identity hidden.
This is an intense and epic adventure and romance, with a wonderful paranormal and magical world. There is bratty banter between the once shy Ayden and his mate, and an endless list they keep of pro’s and cons of their relationship.
There are many touching and often sad moments, especially later in the story, but I am not going to spoil this read by talking about the scene.
October 19, 2020
*For those who might wonder Dra’Kaedan and Ayden are the same person, it’s all explained clearly in the first chapter how it came to be.
Dra’Kaedan’s, warlock, life is hell under Latarian’s rule. I really could not stand the spoiled, irritating, ungrateful brat who only thought of herself and enjoyed inflicting as much pain as possible on Dra’Kaedan. I seriously wanted to do her bodily harm as the story progressed. Getting to know the D’Vaire clan was a delight. Each character added to the story as it progressed. I loved Dra’Kaeddan’s sarcasm and wit. I was extremely happy with this story.
This was an amazing story about deceit, lies, love and rising above the evil in their midst. Brogan, a dragon shifter, was unsure about Ayden and ended up insulting the man he thought was a familiar. I felt for Ayden and wanted to slap Brogan for his unkind words at first. Despite the angst they got to know one another and fell in love. When Ayden falls ill after their mating ceremony accusations fly around and Latarian blames Ari, a visiting warlock.
I truly enjoyed this wonderful story from start to finish. If I could have given a higher number to the rating I would have. It was dazzling tale of how different races can come together for the greater good and how evil will not win in the end. I will say I’ve read all the way to book eight in this series and it’s my all time favorite series to date. So many wonderful characters are throughout as they each face their own struggles within each book. There are many aspects to these books that had me enthralled from the beginning. I love reading about the characters that I know and the new ones introduced.
I implore everyone to read this fantastic series you won’t be disappointed with the action, drama, suspense, mystery, romance and angst that are in the books.
I highly recommend this series to all.
Reviewed for mmgoodbookreviews.com
Dra’Kaedan’s, warlock, life is hell under Latarian’s rule. I really could not stand the spoiled, irritating, ungrateful brat who only thought of herself and enjoyed inflicting as much pain as possible on Dra’Kaedan. I seriously wanted to do her bodily harm as the story progressed. Getting to know the D’Vaire clan was a delight. Each character added to the story as it progressed. I loved Dra’Kaeddan’s sarcasm and wit. I was extremely happy with this story.
This was an amazing story about deceit, lies, love and rising above the evil in their midst. Brogan, a dragon shifter, was unsure about Ayden and ended up insulting the man he thought was a familiar. I felt for Ayden and wanted to slap Brogan for his unkind words at first. Despite the angst they got to know one another and fell in love. When Ayden falls ill after their mating ceremony accusations fly around and Latarian blames Ari, a visiting warlock.
I truly enjoyed this wonderful story from start to finish. If I could have given a higher number to the rating I would have. It was dazzling tale of how different races can come together for the greater good and how evil will not win in the end. I will say I’ve read all the way to book eight in this series and it’s my all time favorite series to date. So many wonderful characters are throughout as they each face their own struggles within each book. There are many aspects to these books that had me enthralled from the beginning. I love reading about the characters that I know and the new ones introduced.
I implore everyone to read this fantastic series you won’t be disappointed with the action, drama, suspense, mystery, romance and angst that are in the books.
I highly recommend this series to all.
Reviewed for mmgoodbookreviews.com
August 30, 2018
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it definitely won’t be my last. The story was riveting, refreshing and left me wanting more.
My heart ached for Ayden; Latarian was a nasty piece of work and the only thing she knew how to do was to berate and physically abuse Ayden. I wanted to smack her and then whip her with the same horrible whip she used on Ayden.
Ayden was sweet and I enjoyed watching his fiery, passionate persona surface after being suppressed for so long.
Fate brought Brogan and Ayden together but things don’t go smoothly between the pair. I felt like putting a sock in Brogan’s mouth just to stop him from continuously putting his foot in with Ayden. I have to admit, I enjoyed their interactions and the banter that followed. They had great chemistry and the author built up the sexual tension perfectly.
At one point, I actually cried with the turn of events. The scene was heartbreaking, shocking and took me by surprise.
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in one go. I’m definitely going to purchase this book and enjoy reading again and again and never get bored. Can’t wait for book 2!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it definitely won’t be my last. The story was riveting, refreshing and left me wanting more.
My heart ached for Ayden; Latarian was a nasty piece of work and the only thing she knew how to do was to berate and physically abuse Ayden. I wanted to smack her and then whip her with the same horrible whip she used on Ayden.
Ayden was sweet and I enjoyed watching his fiery, passionate persona surface after being suppressed for so long.
Fate brought Brogan and Ayden together but things don’t go smoothly between the pair. I felt like putting a sock in Brogan’s mouth just to stop him from continuously putting his foot in with Ayden. I have to admit, I enjoyed their interactions and the banter that followed. They had great chemistry and the author built up the sexual tension perfectly.
At one point, I actually cried with the turn of events. The scene was heartbreaking, shocking and took me by surprise.
I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in one go. I’m definitely going to purchase this book and enjoy reading again and again and never get bored. Can’t wait for book 2!
December 8, 2024
I'm a sucker for really long series. And this one so far has 42 books in it. I think for this review I'll do a pros, cons list. Overall about a 2.5 stars.
Pros
Very interesting premise. Warlock prince is brainwashed into thinking he's a familiar and enslaved to a very whiney witch. Many years later he is taken to the home of an ostracized dragon king and his crew and meets his soulmate. There's the witch trying to thwart the relationship, both MCs seemingly trying to sabotage it also, and lots of court politics, world building.
Cons
As other's have said. It's very YA (except for the sex scenes). Most of the characters are very juvenile, despite their age, and often they would do very frustrating things that made no sense. Also, the number of characters introduced was a bit daunting. I was able to keep track, but just barely. And also as others have said, the pacing leaves much to be desired. It drags on endlessly in the middle with chapter upon chapter of the two lovers getting acquainted and the evil witch trying to thwart this. A good 100 pages could easily be cut to tighten up the story.
It wasn't a DNF for me though. I was able to make it through okay and decided to keep going.
Pros
Very interesting premise. Warlock prince is brainwashed into thinking he's a familiar and enslaved to a very whiney witch. Many years later he is taken to the home of an ostracized dragon king and his crew and meets his soulmate. There's the witch trying to thwart the relationship, both MCs seemingly trying to sabotage it also, and lots of court politics, world building.
Cons
As other's have said. It's very YA (except for the sex scenes). Most of the characters are very juvenile, despite their age, and often they would do very frustrating things that made no sense. Also, the number of characters introduced was a bit daunting. I was able to keep track, but just barely. And also as others have said, the pacing leaves much to be desired. It drags on endlessly in the middle with chapter upon chapter of the two lovers getting acquainted and the evil witch trying to thwart this. A good 100 pages could easily be cut to tighten up the story.
It wasn't a DNF for me though. I was able to make it through okay and decided to keep going.
November 29, 2019
What a pleasant surprise this gem turned out to be. Judging by the reviews posted from official review sites, I expected the book to be mediocre at best, but I absolutely loved it. I didn't find the dialogue immature or jaunty, as has been stated. Instead, I got the impression the author was going for a modern, Buffy the Vampire sort of vibe. Although the characters are centuries old, they have adapted very seamlessly to their contemporary environment. I think for this reason, the book could be marketed as a new adult or possibly even young adult novel. Perhaps those who've been critical just didn't get it. To each her own.
For me, the book was a page turner, and the author quite skillfully built up to a much anticipated big reveal scene where all of the angst and mystery was resolved, and of course it culminates in a happy ever after. Ayden and Brogan are a truly endearing couple, and the brief forced separation that precipitates their final resolution and reunion was exceptionally moving.
This book was a pleasant reminder to me why I love m/m. Well written, meticulously edited.
For me, the book was a page turner, and the author quite skillfully built up to a much anticipated big reveal scene where all of the angst and mystery was resolved, and of course it culminates in a happy ever after. Ayden and Brogan are a truly endearing couple, and the brief forced separation that precipitates their final resolution and reunion was exceptionally moving.
This book was a pleasant reminder to me why I love m/m. Well written, meticulously edited.
July 13, 2022
I really really wanted to like this one. The story had quite a promising start, even though the language didn't seem much. Either it was too simple or the pharses used to denote the time were seemed too forced. But in between the story seemed lacking. There was absolutely no chemistry between the MCs. They acted more like annoying siblings with each other. And even though everyone knew Latatian was literally evil, nobody reacted accordingly. There was no steam even in the sex scenes.
Technically the book ended (in a very anti-climatic manner) about 7 chapters before it actually ended. The way Dra'kaeden was resurrected or his brother revealed his identity was so dull. The chapter in Brogen's POV after his mate's death was also not very emotion wrenching. It all seemed kind of shallow.
But still I am gonna continue the series because I really want to see where the story goes and how everyone get their mates. I also like the relationship between the members of the D'Vaire clan and want to see how it all proceeds. Let's hope it gets better!
Technically the book ended (in a very anti-climatic manner) about 7 chapters before it actually ended. The way Dra'kaeden was resurrected or his brother revealed his identity was so dull. The chapter in Brogen's POV after his mate's death was also not very emotion wrenching. It all seemed kind of shallow.
But still I am gonna continue the series because I really want to see where the story goes and how everyone get their mates. I also like the relationship between the members of the D'Vaire clan and want to see how it all proceeds. Let's hope it gets better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2020
OK, but Could Be, Should Be, Better
The storyline has a good start, and character development is good but as the story progresses the author fails to provide a decent background or insight perspective to the events as they happen. There is a major disconnect when two major characters are suddenly thrust 600 years into the future and they have no questions or issues with the new technology. Actually, the author fails to introduce anything new to the pair and they seem to instantly adapt to everything.
The tensions and interplay between characters is decent, but this lack of support for the changes in technology and social life leave much to be desired. No one comes out of a 600 year isolation with no questions, or the ability to understand every nuance and change.
This is very much a classic style fairytale with sudden expositions, magical changes, and good triumphant.
The storyline has a good start, and character development is good but as the story progresses the author fails to provide a decent background or insight perspective to the events as they happen. There is a major disconnect when two major characters are suddenly thrust 600 years into the future and they have no questions or issues with the new technology. Actually, the author fails to introduce anything new to the pair and they seem to instantly adapt to everything.
The tensions and interplay between characters is decent, but this lack of support for the changes in technology and social life leave much to be desired. No one comes out of a 600 year isolation with no questions, or the ability to understand every nuance and change.
This is very much a classic style fairytale with sudden expositions, magical changes, and good triumphant.
March 11, 2019
Dra'Kaedan finds himself believing that he is a familiar named Ayden attached to a witch that is...well, horrible. After centuries held in a cottage, they decide to see what had happened to the witch's grandfather. Instead, they appear on the doorstep of the D'Vaire court and that's when everything turns interesting.
Brogan has followed his king, Aleksander since they were cast out because Aleksander is different from all other known dragons. He took to traveling to find his mate and returns when he discovers that they have taken two strangers into their home.
To say that Brogan and Ayden/Dra'Kaedan's first few meetings went sideways is an understatement of epic proportions. As they grow closer, secrets are held that will impact them in ways that neither ever saw happening. Be ready with Kleenexes, you will need them.
Brogan has followed his king, Aleksander since they were cast out because Aleksander is different from all other known dragons. He took to traveling to find his mate and returns when he discovers that they have taken two strangers into their home.
To say that Brogan and Ayden/Dra'Kaedan's first few meetings went sideways is an understatement of epic proportions. As they grow closer, secrets are held that will impact them in ways that neither ever saw happening. Be ready with Kleenexes, you will need them.
March 17, 2020
I've never been a fan of "fated mate" books, but this one was ultimately readable. There is both physical and emotional abuse as well as a slavery element to the book that some may find upsetting. The book had a rocky start with one set of circumstances and then jumping 600 yrs into the future. The cast of characters was large and varied. Of the mains, Ayden, the "familiar" (which is apparently a magical race but not well defined) had a bit of unnecessary potty mouth, and Brogan, the dragon shifter Duke, was a bit of a jerk throughout the book. The villain Latarian, a weak warlock with delusions of grandeur, was particularly hateful and hate worthy. Well done, she essentially saved the book. A very Marvel Studios moment at the end of the book, which I won't spoil. Over all, a decent read.
November 28, 2020
I’m sad that it took me this long to start this series
I had this in my KU list forever, and then, inexplicably, I removed it at some point. This week, I got an email that the newest book in this series was coming out and I figured that since I keep thinking each book sounds interesting, I should try them out. I don’t know why I ever delayed reading this! I loved how, despite his best efforts, the egomaniac who killed off everyone he was trying to rule, couldn’t successfully erase Dra’Kaedan from Aydan. And his granddaughter will probably make trouble for the coven in the future, but she’s no where near as intelligent as she thinks that she is.
I had this in my KU list forever, and then, inexplicably, I removed it at some point. This week, I got an email that the newest book in this series was coming out and I figured that since I keep thinking each book sounds interesting, I should try them out. I don’t know why I ever delayed reading this! I loved how, despite his best efforts, the egomaniac who killed off everyone he was trying to rule, couldn’t successfully erase Dra’Kaedan from Aydan. And his granddaughter will probably make trouble for the coven in the future, but she’s no where near as intelligent as she thinks that she is.
October 10, 2021
Worth the time
Def. Not a quick and easy read, which is usually what I stick too, but it was worth it in the end.
I took off a star for the beginning of the book only because the second half seemed to flow better, I found myself haveing to reread a lot in the beginning. More angst then I was used to dealing with and I didn't understand why it took them so long to figure out who he was but I stuck with it and the ending def. Made it worth it. Loved how you actually get to read about the birth of the coven instead of starting after it was already established like alot of other books paranormal books.
Def. Not a quick and easy read, which is usually what I stick too, but it was worth it in the end.
I took off a star for the beginning of the book only because the second half seemed to flow better, I found myself haveing to reread a lot in the beginning. More angst then I was used to dealing with and I didn't understand why it took them so long to figure out who he was but I stuck with it and the ending def. Made it worth it. Loved how you actually get to read about the birth of the coven instead of starting after it was already established like alot of other books paranormal books.
January 6, 2022
Dra'Kaeden and Brogdan
This was a fun adventure read. Poor Dra'Kaeden was turned from warlock to a familiar. Now Ayden, his powers are siphoned off and being used by a witch. He has lost his memories and loves only to please his witch.
Brogdon is a dragon shifter longing for his mate. He has searched all over for his mate, little did he know where he would find him.
This was a fun read. I love the magic and dragons. Great world building. Steam. Snarky characters were fun. I'm looking forward to diverse stories with lots of different fun characters in the future books.
This was a fun adventure read. Poor Dra'Kaeden was turned from warlock to a familiar. Now Ayden, his powers are siphoned off and being used by a witch. He has lost his memories and loves only to please his witch.
Brogdon is a dragon shifter longing for his mate. He has searched all over for his mate, little did he know where he would find him.
This was a fun read. I love the magic and dragons. Great world building. Steam. Snarky characters were fun. I'm looking forward to diverse stories with lots of different fun characters in the future books.
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