The last time I went to the library one of the two books I really wanted, Storm Riders, was not there. I had to place it on hold and anxiously awaited to hear back from them. The call came sooner than expected and right as I finished my last print book. It is then fitting that on the same day I pick up the other book I reserved, Dragon Flight, I should finish Storm Riders. It was a satisfying read, as good as the first and exposing more of the story. I fear that the series will may extend for two or three more past this one, because it means that I've gotten myself into another waiting game. We I first got Storm Riders it was a new release. This means the next one will probably be out next year.C'est la vie, especially if you're a reader. It doesn't help that this book has a nice cliff hanger at the end with three major strands left unsatisfied. Although to be honest, two of those strands are moving towards each other.
Plot: We are reunited with Stepahno, the late captain of the disbanded Dragon Brigade; Dubois, the agent of the Grad Bishop; and Father Jacob, the swore protector of the church, as they strive to track down those responsible for colossal tragedy and destruction. The enemy is not from Hell, but somewhere just as bad. Stepahno, along with the rest of the Cadre of the Lost are having difficulty surviving but their hope grows as they befriend a trio of wild dragons. Unfortunately, Stephano is having dreams of rebuilding the Dragon Brigade and it may cause problems for him. Dubois meanwhile is on the scent of a strange new duchess in the court of Rosia. No one knows her background or who her young nephew is, but he's pretty sure that they are up to no good. Father Jacob, meanwhile is recovering from injuries sustained in the horrific destruction that the enemy wrought upon Rosia. People fear he is growing mad as he continues to talk to a saint who's been dead for centuries. What's more troubling is that she may be telling him to do things that would not only violate the decrees of the church, but might even rock it to its very core. What's more, we also get to see the intrigue that is taking place in the Rosian court where Stephano's mother, the Countess Cecile de Marjolaine, is the most powerful source of power and information. The problem is that Cecile is not sure what is going on to cause one crisis after another. Doing everything she can to keep things under control she is still unable to stop those who seek revenge on the nations of the world from accomplishing their plans. The world is literally falling to pieces and there is little that anybody can do about it. And what is Sir Henry up to all this time? What ever it is involves a lot of steal, a new boat, a pirate captain and talking to each one of the people who want him dead.
Personal favorites: Once again the characters were wonderful. The Cadre of the Lost went through some wonderful growing pains and Father Jacob was as delightful as previously. I thought the pacing was good and the action was well written. This book had more intrigue and let us get to know some of the other characters better. It was fun to see how the different sides found ways to work together, and the conflicts were well played. The story was well written and flushed out more of the world showing future potential for plot twists and turns. There was still plenty left unanswered, but the key elements were there. It was also curious to get POVs from our villian. It added a level of suspense the other one didn't have.
Considerations: Once again, the book did not have any language issues. I would say that the overall feel of the book was not as gruesome as the first. Because of more of a focus on intrigue there wasn't as much action. It also helped that the Warlock was on a tight leash. This is not to say that the book was completely clean of gore, but I will say that it was minimal and I can only think of two minor scenes. I would have no problem recommending the book to anyone who read the first.
Now I'm officially entrenched in another series (I can think of four other unfinished series I'm working on). I was not disappointed in this book. It was well written and welcome anytime I could read. The book does enc . The total length was 510 pages.
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