The Death Before Dragons series includes the following books: Sinister Magic, Battle Bond, Tangled Truths, Elven Doom, False Security, Storm Forged, Secrets of the Sword 1, Secrets of the Sword 2, Secrets of the Sword 3
Not your average heroine…
If absolute power corrupts absolutely, then the dragons have had the upper hand way too long! Enter Val, a unique and badass leading lady.
Lindsay Buroker is one of my favorite writers authors she’s not afraid to tell a different kind of story. She’s written a ton of books but this was the first series of hers I read- and I almost returned it before beginning. For starters, the heroine Val, isn’t some young girl. Now obviously there’s nothing wrong with kicking butt in your forties but I hadn’t read novels that featured someone her age- especially where romance is concerned. She’s definitely beautiful but not remotely fashionable and at six foot, she’s taller than some of the men. Suffice it to say, she’s not your ordinary heroine.
This is the magic of Linsay Buroker’s storytelling! She writes real and gripping characters. They’re messy and flawed and feel like good friends. Before you mistakenly think (as I did) that an unusual heroine can’t be sexy main character material- think again! Val is powerful as well as vulnerable and the perfect mate for an uptight dragon. (Also dragons in human form are tall so it works!)
The writing in this series is excellent and the characters are multidimensional and interesting. While it definitely has a happy ending, there are plenty of twists and turns that make the story less predictable. The author also does an excellent job of blending this magical world alongside our normal one. It’s a fun and refreshing read!
What happens when a pompous dragon meets a stubborn elf…
Val Thorvald is an assassin who deals with magical threats—permanently. When dangerous magical beings hurt others, she steps in to stop them. Her actions haven’t made her popular in the magical community, as evidenced by the many break-ins and assassination attempts she’s endured. However, with her half-elven heritage, a powerful sword named Chopper, and a telepathic tiger with a sharp attitude, she’s always managed to handle her problems with skill—albeit with some cursing along the way.
Things take a turn for the worse when her boss falls victim to a mysterious illness, a government agent begins investigating her activities, and a dragon appears during her latest mission. While Val has taken down vampires, zombies, and ogres, dragons are in a league of their own—far more powerful and far more dangerous. To make matters worse, this dragon seems intent on using his magic to compel her into servitude, as though she’s a weak-minded pawn.
Val refuses to bow to anyone but Zav the dragon has other ideas. As he learns that controlling this assassin is harder than he expected, they both discover a growing attraction. Can a dragon and a half-human survive danger and destruction with their hearts intact?
What I love about the Death Before Dragons series by Lindsay Buroker:
This series is well written and thought out, with interesting characters who behave in rational ways. This is a stand-out author due to her excellent and unconventional storytelling that still leaves you totally satisfied.
What I didn’t love about it:
I really enjoyed this series- no real critiques!
Spice level:
This series is medium spicy. There is not a ton of physical romance but there is some. It’s not necessarily explicit but the main characters end up with a physical relationship. There is kissing and more.
Language:
The language is mild to moderate. Throughout the series there are occasional swear words. There are no F-bombs and the language is appropriate to the scene.
Violence:
This series is medium in terms of violence. It’s not completely tame but neither does it keep me up at night. If you’ve read any of my other reviews you’ll know I’m a violence wimp so other readers might find it milder than I do.
Length:
This is a longer series than I usually read as I tend to get bored. There are nine books in this series. These novels are on the shorter side, usually between 250-300 pages each.
Where to get the Death Before Dragons series by Lindsay Buroker:
At the time I’m writing this review, the series is available for sale on Kindle or free with your Kindle Unlimited subscription. The series is also available in paperback form and on audible.
I hope you enjoy this story as much as I do. Keep reading! -Eva
(Find it on Amazon)
Connect with the author: Lindsay Buroker
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