Dragon Unleashed (The Fallen Empire, #2)

by Grace Draven

[kimbacaffeinate]

We are back in the Krael empire where magic is outlawed. Halani, born with the gift of earth magic, is a free trader in her uncle’s caravan. Her Uncle buys a piece of bone belonging to a dead draga, but Halani senses it is more. Most of the world believes the dragas are gone from this world, but they live among them disguised as human.

Meanwhile, Malachus is living on borrowed time. The magic that’s protecting him will soon turn on him. He must find a key part of his heritage. He has tracked it to a group of free traders with an earth witch, who fascinates him.

I loved the city, the trade market and the way of life of Halani’s people. The story was slow-moving but slowly pulled me in. We learn another party is searching for the draga bone and that the Empress wants a draga of her own.

I enjoyed how Draven tied all the threads together as we moved closer to the heart of the Krael empire. The suspense built and the storyline pulled me in, particularly during the second half.

I liked Halani and adored her mother. Both have suffered hardships. We get to know key characters within the caravan and her harsh, conniving uncle.

When Malachus in injured, it is Halani who heals him. The romance was for me more subdued than the first book. While I enjoy a good romantic thread, it isn’t necessary for me and the world, supernatural aspects, and plot soon had me hooked. I fear that for some the slow burn will have them losing interest before it flames.

The second half is faster-paced as the romance develops and the dangerous villains make their moves. While I loathed the Empress, the Cat’s Paw surprised me. I still wasn’t happy with him, but understood. And the Uncle..bah. Don’t get me started!

While this didn’t hook me quite as deeply as the first novel, one thing is clear, Draven has created a vivid world. The world-building, magic, myths and magical items were impressive and unique. Magical elements and an item used by the cat’s paw were clever.

The climactic scenes as Halani and Malachus faced danger had me biting my nails, and Draven delivered an epilogue of sorts to wrap up their story.

Katharine Lee McEwan once again narrated and she brought distinct voices to the characters, in particular Halani and Malachus strengthening their points of view. Her tone and pacing enhanced the story and holding me captive even during the slower unfolding in the first half. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer