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Tracking Trouble #1
Marked by Magic
Arwen Forester may be a socially awkward introvert, but she’s an expert tracker, archer, and forager who has a pickling recipe for every vegetable in the garden. Unfortunately, none of these skills earn her a lot of money. And when the taxes go up on her father’s farm, she’s not sure how to help him keep the property.
Then someone offers her a lucrative new gig:
Hunt down a haughty half-dragon criminal with the power to incinerate those who irritate him.
Normally, Arwen would reject such a suicidal mission, but with the farm at stake, she’s desperate. Besides, all she has to do is tag the half-dragon with a tracking device. How hard could it be?
Find out in Marked by Magic, Book 1 in the new Tracking Trouble urban fantasy series.
Then someone offers her a lucrative new gig:
Hunt down a haughty half-dragon criminal with the power to incinerate those who irritate him.
Normally, Arwen would reject such a suicidal mission, but with the farm at stake, she’s desperate. Besides, all she has to do is tag the half-dragon with a tracking device. How hard could it be?
Find out in Marked by Magic, Book 1 in the new Tracking Trouble urban fantasy series.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2023
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
186 books5,675 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
November 10, 2023
5 Stars!
This is a fantastic beginning to a new series. It contains all the wonderful elements the author is known for, action, adventure, and humor. I enjoyed catching up with characters from past series set in the same world, and look forward to the next book in the series.
This is a fantastic beginning to a new series. It contains all the wonderful elements the author is known for, action, adventure, and humor. I enjoyed catching up with characters from past series set in the same world, and look forward to the next book in the series.
November 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this book
I love Lindsay Buroker and the other series related to this book. I will be truly sad when she stops writing about the characters.
I love Lindsay Buroker and the other series related to this book. I will be truly sad when she stops writing about the characters.
May 30, 2024
I giving it 3.5 stars rounded up to four.
This was the first Buroker book I read. I had this author on my tbr a very long time. And then this one came up and I liked it. I was lucky, because the series is just finished and I will read or listen to the other four books. I liked that you don't feel like you have to rush trough the series, because there is a cliffhanger at the end. Because there was no cliffhanger. So I will take my time to read the next part, which is already on my kindle.
This was the first Buroker book I read. I had this author on my tbr a very long time. And then this one came up and I liked it. I was lucky, because the series is just finished and I will read or listen to the other four books. I liked that you don't feel like you have to rush trough the series, because there is a cliffhanger at the end. Because there was no cliffhanger. So I will take my time to read the next part, which is already on my kindle.
November 7, 2023
Another solid entry in the Death Before Dragons universe. Lindsay Buroker's quirky characters and snarky humour never fails to entertain. I'm looking forward to reading more about the new, and familiar, characters. (except for Amber, I really don't like Amber)
November 9, 2023
If you’ve read and enjoyed the author’s Death Before Dragons or Legacy of Magic series, I can guarantee that you’ll love this book. Set in the same world, and with the stars of those other series as secondary characters here, this is primarily the story of Arwen Forester, the wilderness-loving, half-dark-elf/half-human tracker first introduced in the Legacy of Magic series. It’s also secondarily the story of and Azerdash Starblade, the half-elven/half-dragon former general, who I can already tell is destined to be with her - though likely not for a while and not until lots of ups and downs.
For newcomers, don’t worry, while having read the prior series is an advantage, in that it gives a lot of extra depth through back story, if you didn’t know about those prior books you’d not realize it at all as this book stands alone perfectly by itself, and does so in a perfectly superb manner.
Anyone who likes fantasies involving dragons, elves, dwarves, and all of the other fantasy races, in a modern world setting (which is done in a totally plausible way), and/or who loves strong snarky female leading characters, with tons of action and adventure - and lots of really well done snark - will love this author’s fantasy tales. Unlike the prior two series (which I highly recommend by the way, best if read in order of publication), the heroine here is rather shy at first, but Arwen is still a great character and one who was totally a pleasure to follow along with - and whom I’m sure will only get even stronger as the series goes on.
So, bottom line here: a superbly written fun and adventurous modern day urban fantasy story that works as a neat book by itself (ie, has a very satisfying “happily enough for now” ending, and can be read independent of other series). Great addictive fun. The only downside is that, even though it does have that satisfying ending, you know there are more tales to come in the series and therefore will be left very eagerly waiting for them to be published. Not a bad situation, come to think of it. As for this book, easy to give it a “highly recommended” and five stars.
For newcomers, don’t worry, while having read the prior series is an advantage, in that it gives a lot of extra depth through back story, if you didn’t know about those prior books you’d not realize it at all as this book stands alone perfectly by itself, and does so in a perfectly superb manner.
Anyone who likes fantasies involving dragons, elves, dwarves, and all of the other fantasy races, in a modern world setting (which is done in a totally plausible way), and/or who loves strong snarky female leading characters, with tons of action and adventure - and lots of really well done snark - will love this author’s fantasy tales. Unlike the prior two series (which I highly recommend by the way, best if read in order of publication), the heroine here is rather shy at first, but Arwen is still a great character and one who was totally a pleasure to follow along with - and whom I’m sure will only get even stronger as the series goes on.
So, bottom line here: a superbly written fun and adventurous modern day urban fantasy story that works as a neat book by itself (ie, has a very satisfying “happily enough for now” ending, and can be read independent of other series). Great addictive fun. The only downside is that, even though it does have that satisfying ending, you know there are more tales to come in the series and therefore will be left very eagerly waiting for them to be published. Not a bad situation, come to think of it. As for this book, easy to give it a “highly recommended” and five stars.
April 2, 2024
2024 Reads #195/250
3.75⭐️
3.75⭐️
February 13, 2024
Entertaining fantasy listening 🎶🔰
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book one of four
The story started a little slow 🐌 but picked up with interesting characters lots of action, misdirection, and violence leading to the unexpected conclusion.
I would recommend this fantasy world 🌎 series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy adventure novels 👍🔰. 2024 👒😤🐉🏰🐶
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book one of four
The story started a little slow 🐌 but picked up with interesting characters lots of action, misdirection, and violence leading to the unexpected conclusion.
I would recommend this fantasy world 🌎 series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy adventure novels 👍🔰. 2024 👒😤🐉🏰🐶
July 11, 2024
Arwen Forester and her father work their farm, selling produce and other products at the farmer’s market. This fits their reclusive lifestyle, but doesn’t make much money. When the taxes on their property go up, Arwen is desperate and takes a risky job, hunting down a half-dragon and tagging him. The half-dragon is Azerdash Starblade, and he is determined to recover his last remaining comrade from the clutches of dark elves. Once Arwen meets Starblade and gets to know him better, she decides she’ll be better off helping him than trying to complete the job she was coerced into taking. This leads to a mysterious and magically defended building, kidnapped beings, evil machinations by dark elves, and cameos by characters from two previous series - Val, Zav, Matti and Colonel Willard. I liked Arwen, an introverted, wilderness loving, tracker who is trying to overcome the dark elf half of her heritage, and Starblade is as arrogant and snooty as dragons and elves always are, while being a sympathetic character. Having been bred to fight in a war between elves and dwarves, then captured and kept in stasis for centuries before being accidentally freed by Matti while rescuing her mother, Starblade just wants to be free and escape the dragons who think he’s an abomination and should be killed. I’m looking forward to more books in this new series, especially since previous series characters show up and add to the fun.
November 15, 2023
2.5/5.0
I dunno… as much as I usually enjoy Ms. Buroker’s books, this one just didn’t maintain any of the positives that keep me coming back. Arwen is a very enigmatic side character in the previous series and Starblade was a super interesting character that I couldn’t wait to read about going into this story. Unfortunately, neither lived up to my expectations.
Arwen turns out to be an incredibly weak character and her plot-line makes it even worse. She doesn’t have the quirky and fun sense of humor that Val (Death Before Dragons) and Mattie (Legacy of Magic) has or any strength or innate abilities that would make her stand out. She doesn’t even have a spiffy hammer or a white tiger to give her interest, just an average bow with a few arrows that don’t really work well. Everything about her is negative - from her dark elf heritage to her “I don’t want to do it attitude”. So what are we supposed to grasp on to and root for?
Starblade, who was set up to be this all powerful, amazing yet misunderstood character is now shown as a ho-hum, nothing more than average mongrel like the rest of the half-bloods. Weird. And very disappointing.
Plus, this storyline was awfully slow getting going and just didn’t gel with me, and in many cases didn’t even make sense. Arwen has a dark elf tattoo but no one even considers it might be a problem? Sending Arwen into the belly of the beast (so to speak) without even considering how that will affect her? And the whole “I’ll be their secretary” was just silly and absurd from the get-go.
So why even three stars (I’m asking myself)? I guess I love the world enough that for sentimentality’s sake I just couldn’t hit that two star button.
I dunno… as much as I usually enjoy Ms. Buroker’s books, this one just didn’t maintain any of the positives that keep me coming back. Arwen is a very enigmatic side character in the previous series and Starblade was a super interesting character that I couldn’t wait to read about going into this story. Unfortunately, neither lived up to my expectations.
Arwen turns out to be an incredibly weak character and her plot-line makes it even worse. She doesn’t have the quirky and fun sense of humor that Val (Death Before Dragons) and Mattie (Legacy of Magic) has or any strength or innate abilities that would make her stand out. She doesn’t even have a spiffy hammer or a white tiger to give her interest, just an average bow with a few arrows that don’t really work well. Everything about her is negative - from her dark elf heritage to her “I don’t want to do it attitude”. So what are we supposed to grasp on to and root for?
Starblade, who was set up to be this all powerful, amazing yet misunderstood character is now shown as a ho-hum, nothing more than average mongrel like the rest of the half-bloods. Weird. And very disappointing.
Plus, this storyline was awfully slow getting going and just didn’t gel with me, and in many cases didn’t even make sense. Arwen has a dark elf tattoo but no one even considers it might be a problem? Sending Arwen into the belly of the beast (so to speak) without even considering how that will affect her? And the whole “I’ll be their secretary” was just silly and absurd from the get-go.
So why even three stars (I’m asking myself)? I guess I love the world enough that for sentimentality’s sake I just couldn’t hit that two star button.
November 27, 2023
Not for me DNF
I have to agree with the other review, this book was putting me to sleep at 12%. I would have liked a more in-depth world build. If supernatural beings are walking about willy nilly how come humans don't know about them?? Found that perplexing, a Dragon flying around in broad daylight...Walking around with a bow and arrow like it's an umbrella....??
What I found tedious were the conversations and then the heroines own internal dialogue, they were simply not interesting.
What kind of Hunter has a looong chat whilst they are meant to be hunting? Just not my kind of storytelling. There is a plot here but the execution is lacking for me.
I have to agree with the other review, this book was putting me to sleep at 12%. I would have liked a more in-depth world build. If supernatural beings are walking about willy nilly how come humans don't know about them?? Found that perplexing, a Dragon flying around in broad daylight...Walking around with a bow and arrow like it's an umbrella....??
What I found tedious were the conversations and then the heroines own internal dialogue, they were simply not interesting.
What kind of Hunter has a looong chat whilst they are meant to be hunting? Just not my kind of storytelling. There is a plot here but the execution is lacking for me.
December 20, 2023
It just felt like nothing really happened plot-wise. I'm wanting Buroker to really examine and deconstruct the "evil dark elf" concept of the past few series, but so far, it's not happening.
February 29, 2024
4.75 stars. Promising start to this series.
March 15, 2024
love this author
What a great series so far. Well written with characters you really wish were real so you can invite them to go drinking.
What a great series so far. Well written with characters you really wish were real so you can invite them to go drinking.
November 10, 2023
Love this world
I love the new characters and the interactions with the other 2 series characters! I can't wait to see what's next!
I love the new characters and the interactions with the other 2 series characters! I can't wait to see what's next!
April 11, 2024
A fun, easy read. Typical Buroker book with good story, some action and snarky, sarcastic characters. So far I don’t like Arwen as much as Val or Mattie as she’s such an introvert which makes her seem less competent. But I still enjoyed the book
March 7, 2024
Good read
Fun and fast read. It has a little bit of everything. Looking forward to the next one in the series.
Fun and fast read. It has a little bit of everything. Looking forward to the next one in the series.
November 29, 2023
3.5 stars
December 15, 2023
Having read some of the related books, I am familiar with Val and Zavryd, but this series focuses on Arwen, a half dark elf and Starblade, a half dragon, who is seen as a abomination by his own kind.
Arwen is socially awkward preferring the forest and empty spaces to busy cities, but she is drawn into a new magical plot threatening the city by a half dragon who is just as arrogant as Zavryd is. Must be a dragon thing!
The plot twists and turns, and keeps you hooked, as do all the charcaters who are so well fleshed out, you can't help but root for them. Arwen and Starblade manage to stir up a lot of trouble and you know they are just right for each other, even if we have to watch them make it difficult for themselves. The icing on the cake is seeing Val and Zavryd from someone else's point of view and it's just divine!
Arwen is socially awkward preferring the forest and empty spaces to busy cities, but she is drawn into a new magical plot threatening the city by a half dragon who is just as arrogant as Zavryd is. Must be a dragon thing!
The plot twists and turns, and keeps you hooked, as do all the charcaters who are so well fleshed out, you can't help but root for them. Arwen and Starblade manage to stir up a lot of trouble and you know they are just right for each other, even if we have to watch them make it difficult for themselves. The icing on the cake is seeing Val and Zavryd from someone else's point of view and it's just divine!
December 2, 2023
This wasn’t the strong opening the first two series had. The story took forever to unfold. Arwen was such a weak, reticent character who spent most of the book wrapped in her negative thoughts that it was difficult to root for her, and the guest appearances by Val and Matti weren’t enough to bring positive energy to counter her. Amber had had some sort of personality transplant. She wasn’t so annoying in earlier books. And the hero, Starblade, was a bit too alike the first two heroes to make him stand out either. It took me forever to finish this, and I’m not entirely sure I’ll continue with the series.
June 20, 2024
I just re-read this book and I will finish this series now that I have all of the books in this series.
Fun read for me. This book continues the story from another series and it is as good to me
I liked Star Blade from the last series when he was rescued
Fun read for me. This book continues the story from another series and it is as good to me
I liked Star Blade from the last series when he was rescued
May 5, 2024
***MINOR SPOILERS***
This is the first book in the Tracking Trouble series. Characters from the Death Before Dragons and the Legacy of Magic series appear. Both Arwen and Azerdash appeared in the Legacy of Magic series.
The author begins a story line that will arc over the series. The characters are interesting and realistic. They have flaws and are not one dimensional. Most of the characters have some sort of magical ability: shapeshifters, elves, dragons, etc.
Arwen is half dark elf and half human. Her father and other men were kidnapped by Arwen’s mother and used to try to create children (though the idea was only successful with Arwen’s father). The dark elves call upon demons to increase their power and do sacrifices. They cannot go out in the light and live in caves or buildings with no light. Arwen’s mother wanted to create children that could go in the light and do their bidding. When Arwen was 7, she was given a tattoo that could be used by the dark elves to control her and to call a demon (thus the title). She and her father escaped shortly after that though you find out later this was part of the dark elf plot. As the book opens, she is turning 30, and the dark elves are back to claim her and bring her back into the fold.
She and her father run a farm outside Seattle. Arwen has been discriminated against by the magical community that is both fearful of and against the dark elves. She lacks confidence in a big way and throughout the series, I wished that she would increase in her confidence. In addition, she has difficulty being in crowds and either wants to avoid situations where she will meet people or wants to leave shortly after arriving. There were times it was a bit frustrating to read.
Azerdash Starblade is half dragon, half light elf. He and others are the result of a scientific experiment and are created creatures as this combination would not occur naturally. He is very powerful but not as powerful as a full dragon. The dragons and others would like him destroyed and he is hiding on earth. As the story begins, Azerdash and his fellow half-dragon, Yendral, are trying to decide their future.
Arwen is a tracker and archer. She has magical arrows that she uses. At the beginning of the book, wolf shapeshifters try to force her into finding Azerdash. She decides to go see him to discover what is going on. She is immediately attracted to him and their relationship spans the entire 5 book series.
Arwen also begins to investigate the renewed presence of the dark elves on earth. Azerdash is interested in their motives as well. Arwen works with him and characters of previous books, Matti and Val, to look into a warehouse that appears to be a cover for their presence.
It can be read as a standalone and it completes one part of the story. However, some/most of the story lines introduced are continued in the next book.
I enjoy the vocabulary used by the author. She uses interesting words in her writing. I also enjoy the richness of her stories. The dialogue is often funny. However, there are times when it feels like the story is a bit too jokey.
The book is told solely from Arwen’s point of view.
Lindsay Buroker is an auto-buy for me I have already purchased the next book in the series.
This is the first book in the Tracking Trouble series. Characters from the Death Before Dragons and the Legacy of Magic series appear. Both Arwen and Azerdash appeared in the Legacy of Magic series.
The author begins a story line that will arc over the series. The characters are interesting and realistic. They have flaws and are not one dimensional. Most of the characters have some sort of magical ability: shapeshifters, elves, dragons, etc.
Arwen is half dark elf and half human. Her father and other men were kidnapped by Arwen’s mother and used to try to create children (though the idea was only successful with Arwen’s father). The dark elves call upon demons to increase their power and do sacrifices. They cannot go out in the light and live in caves or buildings with no light. Arwen’s mother wanted to create children that could go in the light and do their bidding. When Arwen was 7, she was given a tattoo that could be used by the dark elves to control her and to call a demon (thus the title). She and her father escaped shortly after that though you find out later this was part of the dark elf plot. As the book opens, she is turning 30, and the dark elves are back to claim her and bring her back into the fold.
She and her father run a farm outside Seattle. Arwen has been discriminated against by the magical community that is both fearful of and against the dark elves. She lacks confidence in a big way and throughout the series, I wished that she would increase in her confidence. In addition, she has difficulty being in crowds and either wants to avoid situations where she will meet people or wants to leave shortly after arriving. There were times it was a bit frustrating to read.
Azerdash Starblade is half dragon, half light elf. He and others are the result of a scientific experiment and are created creatures as this combination would not occur naturally. He is very powerful but not as powerful as a full dragon. The dragons and others would like him destroyed and he is hiding on earth. As the story begins, Azerdash and his fellow half-dragon, Yendral, are trying to decide their future.
Arwen is a tracker and archer. She has magical arrows that she uses. At the beginning of the book, wolf shapeshifters try to force her into finding Azerdash. She decides to go see him to discover what is going on. She is immediately attracted to him and their relationship spans the entire 5 book series.
Arwen also begins to investigate the renewed presence of the dark elves on earth. Azerdash is interested in their motives as well. Arwen works with him and characters of previous books, Matti and Val, to look into a warehouse that appears to be a cover for their presence.
It can be read as a standalone and it completes one part of the story. However, some/most of the story lines introduced are continued in the next book.
I enjoy the vocabulary used by the author. She uses interesting words in her writing. I also enjoy the richness of her stories. The dialogue is often funny. However, there are times when it feels like the story is a bit too jokey.
The book is told solely from Arwen’s point of view.
Lindsay Buroker is an auto-buy for me I have already purchased the next book in the series.
May 18, 2024
I'm uncertain about the direction the author has taken with half-bloods...
...not to mention a blatantly disrespecting, one-quarter elven, teenaged offspring of Val, the wife of full Dragon Lord Zavryd. I don't mind strong and independent females; Amber is NOT independent, nor is she old enough or important enough to be so impolite, witchy, or nasty. She's a spoiled, over-indulged, extremely narcissistic sixteen year old well on her way toward becoming completely unlikable. I certainly cannot stand her, nor do I find making light of all the rudeness and lack of any manners or social graces entertaining when it features a teenage Cruella Deville. I don't even like Matti's brand of snark, and can barely tolerate Willard, although I do so with the caveat that she has built her reputation through extreme personal sacrifice and commitment to her country and her job. She's earned the right to her quirks and grouchiness, and can back her arrogance with impressive intelligence, reputation well deserved, strength (she is only human, after all), and determination. Amber is a snotty brat who gets away with her awful behavior because Val's too guilt-stricken after purposely staying away from her to protect her and her father, and her dad's over-compensating the lack of a mother and his attention by throwing luxury and bribes at her. No wonder she thinks she can try conning and taking what she wants from everyone. Gah! She's disgusting, and I have difficulty accepting her in the story - I skim her scenes, not even ingesting details. I. Cannot. Tolerate. Amber.
On the flip side, I have mixed feelings about Arwen. What I don't get is why she cannot have that tattoo removed. There are enough powerful beings around who might be able to help her - aren't goblins scary artistic and skilled with tattooing when one of them finds that to be their calling? Anyway, she shouldn't have to suffer because her mother forced that on her.
Great storyline, aside from Amber's scenes. Self entitled, spoiled, rude and narcissistic teenage girls are a personal peeve of mine; she ain't as beautiful as her mother, nor is she fortunate enough to be supernatural enough to back her smack talking. Right now, she has her mother's friends and close acquaintances to bail her out when her mouth runs away from common sense. She's mercenary when it comes to her creature comforts, self care, attention, and money. Arwen is the opposite in every way; her dad taught her useful skills, humility, to be self sufficient, and strong. She is as far from Amber's world of privilege, being spoiled all her life, and entitlement as one could get. Arwen is also more likable, endearing, and polite than Amber could dream of being. I doubt she's as average in looks as she thinks of herself, too, the way Val was. Val has a gorgeous dragon who is consumed all the way by only her - dragons love and appreciate beauty along with strength and being a warrior, so yeah, Arwen has a good shot with her half-dragon hottie. I have high hopes...five stars. Even with Amber in it, the book was amazing.
...not to mention a blatantly disrespecting, one-quarter elven, teenaged offspring of Val, the wife of full Dragon Lord Zavryd. I don't mind strong and independent females; Amber is NOT independent, nor is she old enough or important enough to be so impolite, witchy, or nasty. She's a spoiled, over-indulged, extremely narcissistic sixteen year old well on her way toward becoming completely unlikable. I certainly cannot stand her, nor do I find making light of all the rudeness and lack of any manners or social graces entertaining when it features a teenage Cruella Deville. I don't even like Matti's brand of snark, and can barely tolerate Willard, although I do so with the caveat that she has built her reputation through extreme personal sacrifice and commitment to her country and her job. She's earned the right to her quirks and grouchiness, and can back her arrogance with impressive intelligence, reputation well deserved, strength (she is only human, after all), and determination. Amber is a snotty brat who gets away with her awful behavior because Val's too guilt-stricken after purposely staying away from her to protect her and her father, and her dad's over-compensating the lack of a mother and his attention by throwing luxury and bribes at her. No wonder she thinks she can try conning and taking what she wants from everyone. Gah! She's disgusting, and I have difficulty accepting her in the story - I skim her scenes, not even ingesting details. I. Cannot. Tolerate. Amber.
On the flip side, I have mixed feelings about Arwen. What I don't get is why she cannot have that tattoo removed. There are enough powerful beings around who might be able to help her - aren't goblins scary artistic and skilled with tattooing when one of them finds that to be their calling? Anyway, she shouldn't have to suffer because her mother forced that on her.
Great storyline, aside from Amber's scenes. Self entitled, spoiled, rude and narcissistic teenage girls are a personal peeve of mine; she ain't as beautiful as her mother, nor is she fortunate enough to be supernatural enough to back her smack talking. Right now, she has her mother's friends and close acquaintances to bail her out when her mouth runs away from common sense. She's mercenary when it comes to her creature comforts, self care, attention, and money. Arwen is the opposite in every way; her dad taught her useful skills, humility, to be self sufficient, and strong. She is as far from Amber's world of privilege, being spoiled all her life, and entitlement as one could get. Arwen is also more likable, endearing, and polite than Amber could dream of being. I doubt she's as average in looks as she thinks of herself, too, the way Val was. Val has a gorgeous dragon who is consumed all the way by only her - dragons love and appreciate beauty along with strength and being a warrior, so yeah, Arwen has a good shot with her half-dragon hottie. I have high hopes...five stars. Even with Amber in it, the book was amazing.
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 30, 2024I DNF'd this one at about 60%, kept trying and finally just decided to set it aside.
I really enjoyed both the Death Before Dragons and Legacy of Magic series set in this universe, but unfortunately I could not get into this one. I like Arwen as a main character and I could relate to her on multiple fronts, but I just don't feel like she was the right character for this story if that makes sense? I also felt that because I related so much to her it was even harder to read some of the scenes, like the makeover one and how others kinda pushed her around.
She had none of that urge to go after things the other two main characters had and almost seemed to get forced or resigned into doing things. Also the plot just didn't make sense. I mean I absolutely hate phone calls, but if it meant not paying a huge tax bill I would definitely do that. It just felt like there was such an easy solution and instead she takes on this job she doesn't even want to do with too little information for money she didn't need if she would just make a phone call. And I get it phone calls are horrible and give me massive anxiety, but really in this case I just didn't get why she wouldn't make a phone call.
And Amber got so on my nerves in this one, she was super annoying and pushy and Arwen just went along with it. I did not like their interactions and set the book aside every time Amber showed up. I thought she was a fun side character in previous series, but I really didn't like her here. Then there is the dark elf plot line, whcih so far mostly consist of bad evil dakr elves doing probably bad evil things, but no one knows exactly what.
The interactions between Arwen and Starblade weren't interesting and I didn't feel their chemistry. I really liked both Starblade and Arwen in previous books and wanted more about them, but here they just weren't interesting to me.
I kept trying to get further, but I just wasn't invested and didn't care about what was happening. I might try again later, but for now I set this one aside.
I really enjoyed both the Death Before Dragons and Legacy of Magic series set in this universe, but unfortunately I could not get into this one. I like Arwen as a main character and I could relate to her on multiple fronts, but I just don't feel like she was the right character for this story if that makes sense? I also felt that because I related so much to her it was even harder to read some of the scenes, like the makeover one and how others kinda pushed her around.
She had none of that urge to go after things the other two main characters had and almost seemed to get forced or resigned into doing things. Also the plot just didn't make sense. I mean I absolutely hate phone calls, but if it meant not paying a huge tax bill I would definitely do that. It just felt like there was such an easy solution and instead she takes on this job she doesn't even want to do with too little information for money she didn't need if she would just make a phone call. And I get it phone calls are horrible and give me massive anxiety, but really in this case I just didn't get why she wouldn't make a phone call.
And Amber got so on my nerves in this one, she was super annoying and pushy and Arwen just went along with it. I did not like their interactions and set the book aside every time Amber showed up. I thought she was a fun side character in previous series, but I really didn't like her here. Then there is the dark elf plot line, whcih so far mostly consist of bad evil dakr elves doing probably bad evil things, but no one knows exactly what.
The interactions between Arwen and Starblade weren't interesting and I didn't feel their chemistry. I really liked both Starblade and Arwen in previous books and wanted more about them, but here they just weren't interesting to me.
I kept trying to get further, but I just wasn't invested and didn't care about what was happening. I might try again later, but for now I set this one aside.
January 16, 2024
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring by more than 0.50 of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
2.75*
Every book I read in this world the more I dislike the dragons (Grace brings this book up 0.25 of a star), who are normally one of my favourite creatures / races. I particularly dislike Zavryd (sp), with each new appearance, which is why I never read more than one of his and Val's series. I read all of Matti's series, and as with this book, gritted my teeth when Zav or other dragons showed up. The half dragon love interest here gets a slight pass, because he doesn't like other dragons.
While Grace, was different to both Matti and Val, unfortunately all three love interests are of a similar type, though Zav is the most snobby, speciest of them all.
Honestly, I'm hoping this interlinked series of books, is building to the races joining together to overthrown the dragons. If that's not the authors plan, well I can headcanon it.
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Probably
Would you recommend?: Possibly
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
2.75*
Every book I read in this world the more I dislike the dragons (Grace brings this book up 0.25 of a star), who are normally one of my favourite creatures / races. I particularly dislike Zavryd (sp), with each new appearance, which is why I never read more than one of his and Val's series. I read all of Matti's series, and as with this book, gritted my teeth when Zav or other dragons showed up. The half dragon love interest here gets a slight pass, because he doesn't like other dragons.
While Grace, was different to both Matti and Val, unfortunately all three love interests are of a similar type, though Zav is the most snobby, speciest of them all.
Honestly, I'm hoping this interlinked series of books, is building to the races joining together to overthrown the dragons. If that's not the authors plan, well I can headcanon it.
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Probably
Would you recommend?: Possibly
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
December 26, 2023
Can be read apart from author’s other stories, but…
The author lets the reader know that this book is in the same world as some of her other series and can be read without having read the other books first. However, there are so many characters with back stories that intersect, it was a bit confusing and rather distracting to learn about them all as they are quickly introduced. (As opposed to a character/the reader meeting them for the first time and the author taking time to describe them more completely.)
The protagonist in this story has a hang up, which is typical for Buroker’s books. In this set, Arwen is avoidant of social settings and tends to talk too much and awkwardly about her passions (farming), which is similar to other Buroker characters who may be on the Autism spectrum. Arwen is spunky, though, as once she makes up her mind, she bulls forward despite the dangers.
Her possible love interest is a hunky elf-dragon dude with an attitude. They barely flirt in this first book—merely an exchange of a few sexual innuendos. That’s it. To find out more, the reader has to continue the series.
The antagonists are quite evil, but the ones in this book seem to be dispatched rather easily toward the end, right after the reader really gets to “meet” them on the page, which makes for a fast and somewhat anticlimactic ending.
Because of these issues, I recommend that readers start with the other books in this fictional setting, as then the layers of tensions between species, characters, and plots will have more impact. As it is, this book just doesn’t have enough pages to do justice to all that’s going on and has already happened.
The author lets the reader know that this book is in the same world as some of her other series and can be read without having read the other books first. However, there are so many characters with back stories that intersect, it was a bit confusing and rather distracting to learn about them all as they are quickly introduced. (As opposed to a character/the reader meeting them for the first time and the author taking time to describe them more completely.)
The protagonist in this story has a hang up, which is typical for Buroker’s books. In this set, Arwen is avoidant of social settings and tends to talk too much and awkwardly about her passions (farming), which is similar to other Buroker characters who may be on the Autism spectrum. Arwen is spunky, though, as once she makes up her mind, she bulls forward despite the dangers.
Her possible love interest is a hunky elf-dragon dude with an attitude. They barely flirt in this first book—merely an exchange of a few sexual innuendos. That’s it. To find out more, the reader has to continue the series.
The antagonists are quite evil, but the ones in this book seem to be dispatched rather easily toward the end, right after the reader really gets to “meet” them on the page, which makes for a fast and somewhat anticlimactic ending.
Because of these issues, I recommend that readers start with the other books in this fictional setting, as then the layers of tensions between species, characters, and plots will have more impact. As it is, this book just doesn’t have enough pages to do justice to all that’s going on and has already happened.
May 14, 2024
So...I haven't read the Hammered books but did read the Sinister Magic series and I just don't know if all of the FL and ML pairings in this world are just snarky quirky heroines x enigmatic arrogant hero's...but this felt a bit blah.
I get the FL, Arwen, was raised off the grid so to speak-but all of the dialogue with the other women, the male lead and side characters felt stilted. The male lead is another dragon with robotic speech and misunderstandings at every turn, plus the arrogant attitude and prejudices (but I've already read that character with Zav)
Why is the only normal dialogue we get Val's teen daughter who is obsessed with her stock portfolio and fashion choices for college interviews? I mean Arwen was still raised as human right- she goes to markets, talks to people, is a bit awkward, but overall she is feels very out of touch ( or more so her conversations also felt like she was new to the human realm as well)
I might read on in this series because I did enjoy the other books in this world...but I guess we'll see.
I get the FL, Arwen, was raised off the grid so to speak-but all of the dialogue with the other women, the male lead and side characters felt stilted. The male lead is another dragon with robotic speech and misunderstandings at every turn, plus the arrogant attitude and prejudices (but I've already read that character with Zav)
Why is the only normal dialogue we get Val's teen daughter who is obsessed with her stock portfolio and fashion choices for college interviews? I mean Arwen was still raised as human right- she goes to markets, talks to people, is a bit awkward, but overall she is feels very out of touch ( or more so her conversations also felt like she was new to the human realm as well)
I might read on in this series because I did enjoy the other books in this world...but I guess we'll see.
February 4, 2024
Arwen Forester may be a socially awkward introvert, but she’s an expert tracker, archer, and forager who has a pickling recipe for every vegetable in the garden. Unfortunately, none of these skills earn her a lot of money. And when the taxes go up on her father’s farm, she’s not sure how to help him keep the property.
Then someone offers her a lucrative new gig:
Hunt down a haughty half-dragon criminal with the power to incinerate those who irritate him.
Normally, Arwen would reject such a suicidal mission, but with the farm at stake, she’s desperate. Besides, all she has to do is tag the half-dragon with a tracking device. How hard could it be?
We are introduced to new and reacquainted with some familiar characters. The story has flash backs to others but with a whole new story line, but with the quirky humor we have come to expect.
Arwen and Starblades story is interesting and remindes you of Val's and Zav's.
Was a enjoyable read.
Then someone offers her a lucrative new gig:
Hunt down a haughty half-dragon criminal with the power to incinerate those who irritate him.
Normally, Arwen would reject such a suicidal mission, but with the farm at stake, she’s desperate. Besides, all she has to do is tag the half-dragon with a tracking device. How hard could it be?
We are introduced to new and reacquainted with some familiar characters. The story has flash backs to others but with a whole new story line, but with the quirky humor we have come to expect.
Arwen and Starblades story is interesting and remindes you of Val's and Zav's.
Was a enjoyable read.
February 28, 2024
I listen to audiobooks. I might misspell a name here and there.
I've seen some reviews say they didn't like the leads in this one as much as in other series in this universe. I found the opposite. I prefer Arwen and Starblade's dynamic to that of Matti and Sarlevai. I think because it felt more genuine from both sides from the start. There were misunderstandings early on, but they were eventually cleared out.
In comparison, I never did quite enjoy Matti being so taken with a guy who she knew was lying to her and using her. And I think I need to read Val's books to understand what she sees in Zav.
Plot was fun. Action-y with a few twists and turns. Nothing I remember being surprised by, but I was entertained.
I've seen some reviews say they didn't like the leads in this one as much as in other series in this universe. I found the opposite. I prefer Arwen and Starblade's dynamic to that of Matti and Sarlevai. I think because it felt more genuine from both sides from the start. There were misunderstandings early on, but they were eventually cleared out.
In comparison, I never did quite enjoy Matti being so taken with a guy who she knew was lying to her and using her. And I think I need to read Val's books to understand what she sees in Zav.
Plot was fun. Action-y with a few twists and turns. Nothing I remember being surprised by, but I was entertained.
April 16, 2024
Dark destiny
A very good book. I was sad to say hood bye to Matti and Sarrlevi, but I was happy that Arwen and Starblade's story continues in the same universe.
The book starts out a bit slow. However, I think it was necessary to establish Arwen's character. She has a naive charm about her. Unlike most half bloods, her Dark Elf heritage makes her universally hated and avoided. Being a shy person, she is usually okay with this and uses this to get on with her simple farm life. I this this makes and allows Val's daughter Amber to be the perfect counter as the stereotypical cool teenager.
Arwen's quiet life is shattered by everyone suddenly after her, or wanting to use her to find the Dark Elves. No least the cosmic fugitive Starblade who has his own reasons for wanting to destroy the Dark Elves.
It was great to see my old faverites from the previous series. I hope to see more of them, especially Matti, though I doubt she will be clubbing away into battle anytime soon. This is definitely Arwen and Starblade's story. I definitely will be coming back for the rest of the series.
A very good book. I was sad to say hood bye to Matti and Sarrlevi, but I was happy that Arwen and Starblade's story continues in the same universe.
The book starts out a bit slow. However, I think it was necessary to establish Arwen's character. She has a naive charm about her. Unlike most half bloods, her Dark Elf heritage makes her universally hated and avoided. Being a shy person, she is usually okay with this and uses this to get on with her simple farm life. I this this makes and allows Val's daughter Amber to be the perfect counter as the stereotypical cool teenager.
Arwen's quiet life is shattered by everyone suddenly after her, or wanting to use her to find the Dark Elves. No least the cosmic fugitive Starblade who has his own reasons for wanting to destroy the Dark Elves.
It was great to see my old faverites from the previous series. I hope to see more of them, especially Matti, though I doubt she will be clubbing away into battle anytime soon. This is definitely Arwen and Starblade's story. I definitely will be coming back for the rest of the series.
December 25, 2023
Within the first couple of pages, you know this is not a Great Writer. There's too much "tell, don't show," odd word choice, and I don't know what else. Oh, the main character's naivete about human interactions is a little stretched.
.
To be fair, the main character is interesting, and the plot was definitely enough to keep me reading while sick with a GI bug. I liked the slow love story. The climax is solved without a deus ex machina feel. But the virtues did not outweigh the flaws.
.
It could have won ⭐⭐⭐, but I found the ending insufficiently complete—sounds more like the first half of a book, or like a strategy to con you into buying the next book in the series just to answer the key question in the lives of the two main characters.
.
To be fair, the main character is interesting, and the plot was definitely enough to keep me reading while sick with a GI bug. I liked the slow love story. The climax is solved without a deus ex machina feel. But the virtues did not outweigh the flaws.
.
It could have won ⭐⭐⭐, but I found the ending insufficiently complete—sounds more like the first half of a book, or like a strategy to con you into buying the next book in the series just to answer the key question in the lives of the two main characters.
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