By Donna Grant
Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆
Quick Summary
Donna Grant’s Dragon Marked is a continuation of the Uncrowned King. After a war that had changed all of the dragon kings, Merille had worked to help all of his brothers deal with their pain. However, in so doing, he had failed to deal with his. That pain has finally caused him to disconnect from his brothers. Now it refuses to remain buried.
His pain is constant and possibly destructive if he lets it take over. Then he meets Katla. There is something different and wonderful about her, something that draws him in and calms his pain.
However, she had a reason for staying away from dragons. She was sure that the wrong she had done them was unforgivable. In spite of her concerns, Merille showed her kindness and compassion. However, Katla continued to be wary of them.
Merille sees Katla as kind and believes in her even when she does not. As the story progresses, and Katla discovers more about herself and her gifts, we see that she is both powerful, kind and her instinsts are spot on.
Here, gifts make her invaluable to the dragons and Merille in particular.
First Impression
This was my first impression: interesting but not extraordinary. Having read The Bastard King and The Uncrowned King, I looked forward to reading Donna Grant’s other books. However, while Dragon Marked is interesting, it failed to captivate me like the others mentioned above.
While this story is a continuation of The Uncrowned King, after getting to the 8th chapter, I have to admit that it is not nearly as captivating. However, having developed a love for books written by Donna Grant, I held on to hope that things would get better.
What I Loved About Dragon Marked
While the plot twist came late, it drew me in and renewed my interest. However, I still think the story could have been more engaging.
What Could Have Been Better
The plot. While I understand that this book is part of a collection and a wonderful one at that, I wish there had been a more outstanding plot twist that makes this stand out like the ones I have already read.
I wish the build had come earlier, or at least some intriguing twists that would have kept me engaged. It took so long that I was ready to put it down. The main thing that kept me turning the pages was my enjoyment of the past works by Donna Grant.
Unfortunately, the tragedy and the late save made the latter part of this story feel hurried and unbelievable.
Favorite Character
Katla is my favorite person. She has strong protective instincts and even though she does not understand her gifts when her instincts are screaming her gifts work just right. This makes me think of how many of us behave when we are overcome by emotions. It makes Katla’s character very relatable.
Memorable Quote
“It took a great deal of strength to take a hard look at yourself and want to change.” There is so much truth in this line that I could not help but relate. Throughout this book I find myself able to relate to the struggles the characters face inspite of the fact that it is fantasy. This line in particular made them feel so human.
Who Should Read This
If you love fantasy, not only should you read Dragon Marked, but you would be amiss if you did not follow the writings of Donna Grant. Her books make fantasy come alive.
Final Thought
I liked this book, but I am not terribly excited about it. This is because I like page-turners. I like that when I read a book, I should feel like I cannot put it down. However, I did not feel this way about Dragon Marked.
This book is a good read, and I do recommend it.
Before You Go
Have you read Dragon Marked? We are dying to know—did you love it or hate it? Drop a comment below to let us know what you think of it.
If you are interested in other romance novels, be sure to check out Love Rebooted and Dying for the Doctor. Alternatively, if you are looking for books for your children, check out Samiya Visits the Pharmacy and Mrs McCarter, The Fartastic-farter.