SEADRAKE
(The Dragon Mage Chronicles Book II)
by J.A. Jaken
Length: 67,000 words
Genre: Fantasy, Adventure, M/M Romance
Synopsis
After much deliberation, Andrei chooses to bring his inexperienced and highly unusual apprentice to the far-off island of Sutan-lei, where the eminent mage-scholar Master Luth is rumored to abide. It is Andrei’s hope that Master Luth will have answers to the growing mystery he and Jander began to uncover in the city of Tempest as well as help his apprentice gain some degree of mastery over his unique—and highly unpredictable—prowess in the magic. But even as they struggle to piece together the puzzle in front of them, their enemy is close behind them every step of the way...and he is determined not to let the two of them get in his way.
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Carra's Review
Continuing on with the Dragon Mage Chronicles, this time we get a deeper look at the intricacies of the magic itself as Andrei and Jander seek out information to help them in their quest. Here you’ll find a closer examination of the “why” of magic, as we see Jander finding a greater understanding of it, and of his place and role.
Granted, this means this book is much lighter on the action—at least until the more adventure-centered last quarter of the story—but it also lets readers form a better grasp of the possible meaning behind Kirin’s actions, as well as the moral responsibilities that being a dragon mage present to Jander. This gives Seadrake a more somber tone, which is balanced not only by the deep bond he’s formed with Andrei, but also by the resolve Boaen and Tanith display as their little group strengthens.
For those looking for the action, you’ll find it in the last quarter of the story as the danger from the latest dragon reaches its peak. I did find the resolution this time around just a tiny touch anti-climactic given the story and that final skirmish up to that point, but plenty happened along the way to keep me solidly on board with the overall adventure.
Along with the seriousness of this story came a point for Boaen that truly wrenched my heart, and while his situation might not be the primary focus of the series, the author has made his character so endearing that I am just as fully invested in his happiness as I am in Jander and Andrei’s…I really need to see him get his own happy ending when all this is said and done.
Note that this book is really not meant to stand alone—you really should have read Stormdrake first, and I also strongly recommend you read the prequel, The Magician’s Apprentice before starting the series to understand the full backstory of Jander and Andrei’s relationship. Once you’ve done so, you’ll have a better appreciation of what the characters have gone through up to this point, and see the progress they’ve made personally and with each other. 4.5 stars for Seadrake…now bring on the fire! Keep in mind when starting this series it is meant for readers 18+ due to adult language and sexual content.
About the Author
J.A. Jaken has been writing fictional stories and novels for more than ten years, most frequently in the fantasy and science fiction genres. She got her start in the profession writing slash fanfiction, where she has published numerous stories under the pen-name Rushlight. Over the years she has written short stories and novels in genres ranging from science fiction/fantasy to gothic horror to modern detective mysteries, most with at least a touch of m/m romance to them. She lives at home in the southwestern U.S. with her college-aged son, a cat, and the family Rottweiler. Outside of writing, her interests include studying foreign languages, practicing martial arts, riding horses, and collecting medieval weaponry.
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