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The Echoes Saga #8
Last of the Dragorn
THERE IS NO WAR. THERE IS ONLY REBELLION.
Alijah's reign sweeps from Erador to Ayda. Those who would stand against the king are few, their numbers cast across too many battlefields. Does hope lie in the east? Can the elves turn the tide and keep The Rebellion alive?
The weight of Dhenaheim now rests on Doran's shoulders. Chained and imprisoned, the clans are shattered and spread across the realm. On the island of Qamnaran, they build to the heavens. In The Moonlit Plains, they dig down into the dark. Only the Heavybellys have the mettle to do what must be done.
Astride the mighty Athis, Inara Galfrey fights for The Rebellion as both sword and shield. With blood and sweat she has kept Alijah's forces at bay, but Inara knows there is only one way to defeat her brother. Following this path, however, will take her far from the front lines and into lands long forgotten.
After ten thousand years, the future that was foretold looms near. But Fate has one last hand to deal...
LAST OF THE DRAGORN IS THE PENULTIMATE CHAPTER IN THIS UNMISSABLE EPIC FANTASY SERIES.
Alijah's reign sweeps from Erador to Ayda. Those who would stand against the king are few, their numbers cast across too many battlefields. Does hope lie in the east? Can the elves turn the tide and keep The Rebellion alive?
The weight of Dhenaheim now rests on Doran's shoulders. Chained and imprisoned, the clans are shattered and spread across the realm. On the island of Qamnaran, they build to the heavens. In The Moonlit Plains, they dig down into the dark. Only the Heavybellys have the mettle to do what must be done.
Astride the mighty Athis, Inara Galfrey fights for The Rebellion as both sword and shield. With blood and sweat she has kept Alijah's forces at bay, but Inara knows there is only one way to defeat her brother. Following this path, however, will take her far from the front lines and into lands long forgotten.
After ten thousand years, the future that was foretold looms near. But Fate has one last hand to deal...
LAST OF THE DRAGORN IS THE PENULTIMATE CHAPTER IN THIS UNMISSABLE EPIC FANTASY SERIES.
590 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2020
827 people are currently reading
1961 people want to read
About the author
Philip C. Quaintrell
25 books1,378 followersPhilip started his career as an emergency nurse and began writing the books he’d want to read as a hobby between shifts.
He published his first novel in 2016, and soon began his epic fantasy series, The Echoes Saga which went straight into the Amazon bestsellers list in 4 countries.
Now one of the best-selling indie authors worldwide, Philip lives in Manchester, England with his wife and two young children and is hoping this is just the beginning.
He published his first novel in 2016, and soon began his epic fantasy series, The Echoes Saga which went straight into the Amazon bestsellers list in 4 countries.
Now one of the best-selling indie authors worldwide, Philip lives in Manchester, England with his wife and two young children and is hoping this is just the beginning.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
December 16, 2022
It is with a heart full of ache that I say this. Last of the Dragorn is my least favorite book in The Echoes Saga series.
For the past seven books in The Echoes Saga series by Philip C. Quaintrell, I’ve been mentioning that one of the most memorable things about the series was how consistently good it was. I gave every book in the series from Rise of the Ranger up to the previous installment, The Knights of Erador, nothing lower than a 4 out of 5 stars rating. And The Knights of Erador remain strong as my favorite book in the series so far. I fully expect Last of the Dragorn, the penultimate installment to this nine-book epic fantasy series, would top The Knights of Erador in quality. But unfortunately, for the first time in the series, I will have to give a rating lower than 4 stars.
Last of the Dragorn felt like a book that would've worked so much better for me IF it was not the penultimate installment of the series. Except for the final quarter portion, almost everything in this volume was inconsequential and unnecessarily long. Every plotline in Last of the Dragorn revolves around the main characters being separated from each other doing their own fetch sidequest. In the meantime, the main villain lets his underlings kindly kill civilians and waits for the main characters to finish doing their sidequest. I'm not joking. "We have to find a character to find Vighon and then we have to find Vighon's sword!" As for the other characters not involved in this sword's retrieval quest, they have to find another missing character! And it's not like the one flaming sword could do anything other than the burn itself. That's pretty much almost 75% of the book. Vighon is one of my favorite characters in the series. He still is, and I loved reading about his character development. However, having almost the entire penultimate volume dedicated to him being depressed and other characters finding his sword was just... underwhelming. Especially after the super exciting previous installment that raised the stake of the series while being imbued with engaging twists and turns. These lengthy portions of the narrative dedicated to the fetch and retrieval quests felt like they belonged in a spin-off installment instead.
The pacing issue and unnecessary content aside, the other thing that bothered me so much was how insanely stupid some characters were. And these, in my opinion, did not fit their background and personality. Last of the Dragorn employ one of my most disliked tropes (if you can call it that) in storytelling. And that is the reliance on infuriatingly and stupidly leaving a villain alive as a plot device. I am thankful that the next book is the last series because otherwise, I would've easily said the series has overstayed its welcome for me. I swear, the main villain is one of the most loved people in the history of fiction. Judging from what happened in The Knights of Erador and Last of the Dragorn, the main villain could unleash a genocide (which he did), killing countless people and robbing lives from a myriad of families because of his self-righteousness (which he did), or maybe even destroy five planets (he did not do this), really, AND still, some of the main characters would forgive and give him a chance at redemption. It was absolutely insane to me. Adilandra was one of the strongest women in the series in both prowess and mentality, and she has been reduced to an idiot here. Look, I understood her action. I understood why she wanted the villain to have a chance at redemption. It still doesn't make her less stupid, especially for someone in such a high position of leadership. And let's not even get started on how all the characters did not even bother to look for Gideon Thorn for 8 years even though he's only a few days of travel away.
Fortunately, it wasn't all bad. As I mentioned earlier, when the story finally moved forward in the final 25% of the book, Last of the Dragorn became something exciting to read again. I loved Quaintrell's action scenes, and that never changed here. Undead dragons and soldiers, telekinetic blasts, balls of fire, spears of ice, and waves of lightning were poured. And Adilandra aside, every other character did develop wonderfully. The theme of decisions was handled well, even if I disagree with many of their placement and results. At the end of the day, though, what I loved most about Last of the Dragorn is how the last quarter of the book prepared the stage for the big and epic conclusion to come in A Clash of Fates.
Last of the Dragorn has the best cover art in the entire series, in my opinion, anyway. And even though I have ranted a lot on this review, I need to emphasize that most of these issues stem from the fact I don't think it is right to put these seeming filler contents in the penultimate installment of the series. Not because they weren't well-written. The Knights of Erador would've made a much more significantly intense and compelling penultimate volume compared to Last of the Dragorn, which ultimately felt like it's plagued with infamous middle book syndrome where so little monumental events transpired. With the final quarter, once again, being the exception. And this exception, including the prologue, certainly succeeds at making me still excited for the last book of the series. In the grander scope of the entire series, Last of the Dragorn is the only disappointment of the series, and now that we're at the final stage, I'm confident A Clash of Fates will bring out the best storytelling that Quaintrell has to offer.
You can order this book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Andrew W, Annabeth, Barbara, Casey, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Elias, Ellen, Ellis, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jesse, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Kristina, Lana, Leigh, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Michael, Miracle, Nanette, Neeraja, Nicholas, Radiah, Reno, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawn, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
“Life is about choice. Every branch in our path can lead to a new and different future if we but take it. There is no fate. Knowing your future allows you to rewrite it before it happens - that is all. In all my time, I’ve found nothing but false gods and tyrants who would declare themselves as gods.”
For the past seven books in The Echoes Saga series by Philip C. Quaintrell, I’ve been mentioning that one of the most memorable things about the series was how consistently good it was. I gave every book in the series from Rise of the Ranger up to the previous installment, The Knights of Erador, nothing lower than a 4 out of 5 stars rating. And The Knights of Erador remain strong as my favorite book in the series so far. I fully expect Last of the Dragorn, the penultimate installment to this nine-book epic fantasy series, would top The Knights of Erador in quality. But unfortunately, for the first time in the series, I will have to give a rating lower than 4 stars.
“No man has ever been able to stand up and tell the people that he is their king - even if his sword is on fire. That man must have supporters, champions, loyal men and women around him to lift him up. The throne is more than the person who sits beneath the crown. It is the people around it who believe.”
Last of the Dragorn felt like a book that would've worked so much better for me IF it was not the penultimate installment of the series. Except for the final quarter portion, almost everything in this volume was inconsequential and unnecessarily long. Every plotline in Last of the Dragorn revolves around the main characters being separated from each other doing their own fetch sidequest. In the meantime, the main villain lets his underlings kindly kill civilians and waits for the main characters to finish doing their sidequest. I'm not joking. "We have to find a character to find Vighon and then we have to find Vighon's sword!" As for the other characters not involved in this sword's retrieval quest, they have to find another missing character! And it's not like the one flaming sword could do anything other than the burn itself. That's pretty much almost 75% of the book. Vighon is one of my favorite characters in the series. He still is, and I loved reading about his character development. However, having almost the entire penultimate volume dedicated to him being depressed and other characters finding his sword was just... underwhelming. Especially after the super exciting previous installment that raised the stake of the series while being imbued with engaging twists and turns. These lengthy portions of the narrative dedicated to the fetch and retrieval quests felt like they belonged in a spin-off installment instead.
“You’ll have my support when you’ve earned it… I’ve heard all about your past deeds - most books refer to you as a warrior-king. For that you have my respect. But I see nothing of that man before me. It’s easy to find your courage when you’re surrounded by allies, and powerful ones at that. Wait until you’re alone, the odds are against you, and you have everything to lose. Stand up then and I will rise with you…”
The pacing issue and unnecessary content aside, the other thing that bothered me so much was how insanely stupid some characters were. And these, in my opinion, did not fit their background and personality. Last of the Dragorn employ one of my most disliked tropes (if you can call it that) in storytelling. And that is the reliance on infuriatingly and stupidly leaving a villain alive as a plot device. I am thankful that the next book is the last series because otherwise, I would've easily said the series has overstayed its welcome for me. I swear, the main villain is one of the most loved people in the history of fiction. Judging from what happened in The Knights of Erador and Last of the Dragorn, the main villain could unleash a genocide (which he did), killing countless people and robbing lives from a myriad of families because of his self-righteousness (which he did), or maybe even destroy five planets (he did not do this), really, AND still, some of the main characters would forgive and give him a chance at redemption. It was absolutely insane to me. Adilandra was one of the strongest women in the series in both prowess and mentality, and she has been reduced to an idiot here. Look, I understood her action. I understood why she wanted the villain to have a chance at redemption. It still doesn't make her less stupid, especially for someone in such a high position of leadership. And let's not even get started on how all the characters did not even bother to look for Gideon Thorn for 8 years even though he's only a few days of travel away.
“It takes greater magnitudes of strength to forgive than it does to hate… Do not let that love turn to dust.”
Fortunately, it wasn't all bad. As I mentioned earlier, when the story finally moved forward in the final 25% of the book, Last of the Dragorn became something exciting to read again. I loved Quaintrell's action scenes, and that never changed here. Undead dragons and soldiers, telekinetic blasts, balls of fire, spears of ice, and waves of lightning were poured. And Adilandra aside, every other character did develop wonderfully. The theme of decisions was handled well, even if I disagree with many of their placement and results. At the end of the day, though, what I loved most about Last of the Dragorn is how the last quarter of the book prepared the stage for the big and epic conclusion to come in A Clash of Fates.
Last of the Dragorn has the best cover art in the entire series, in my opinion, anyway. And even though I have ranted a lot on this review, I need to emphasize that most of these issues stem from the fact I don't think it is right to put these seeming filler contents in the penultimate installment of the series. Not because they weren't well-written. The Knights of Erador would've made a much more significantly intense and compelling penultimate volume compared to Last of the Dragorn, which ultimately felt like it's plagued with infamous middle book syndrome where so little monumental events transpired. With the final quarter, once again, being the exception. And this exception, including the prologue, certainly succeeds at making me still excited for the last book of the series. In the grander scope of the entire series, Last of the Dragorn is the only disappointment of the series, and now that we're at the final stage, I'm confident A Clash of Fates will bring out the best storytelling that Quaintrell has to offer.
You can order this book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Andrew W, Annabeth, Barbara, Casey, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Elias, Ellen, Ellis, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jesse, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Kristina, Lana, Leigh, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Michael, Miracle, Nanette, Neeraja, Nicholas, Radiah, Reno, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Scott, Shawn, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
May 16, 2024
Last of The Dragorn
Penúltimo livro da saga dos Ecos e aqui começa a preparar terreno para a guerra final vemos que os personagens estão desesperados para conseguirem derrotar o vilão que está destruindo tudo em seu caminho para que haja um reino melhor que só ele pode proporcionar temos aqui vários arcos de personagens com suas próprias missões para tentar derrotar esse mal e temos uma resistência que luta em nome do rei Vighon é que não vai aceitar cair sem lutar tivemos também muito do Galanor fazendo tudo ao seu alcance para conseguir ajudar seus amigos a vencerem a guerra temos também o anão Doran que está em um dilema pessoal e que tem um arco muito interessante e tem a Inara nesse livro saindo em uma jornada épica atrás de um antigo conhecido com a ajuda de ninguém mesmo do que nosso protagonista favorito Asher que também está tentando ajudar a vencer essa guerra a sua maneira tudo culminando numa batalha incrível esse livro com certeza foi um gostinho do que estar por vir no último capítulo da saga e com certeza será um final épico espero muito do último livro que os personagens tenham um encerramento satisfatório e que o final traga a sensação de que toda a jornada realmente valeu a pena.
Penúltimo livro da saga dos Ecos e aqui começa a preparar terreno para a guerra final vemos que os personagens estão desesperados para conseguirem derrotar o vilão que está destruindo tudo em seu caminho para que haja um reino melhor que só ele pode proporcionar temos aqui vários arcos de personagens com suas próprias missões para tentar derrotar esse mal e temos uma resistência que luta em nome do rei Vighon é que não vai aceitar cair sem lutar tivemos também muito do Galanor fazendo tudo ao seu alcance para conseguir ajudar seus amigos a vencerem a guerra temos também o anão Doran que está em um dilema pessoal e que tem um arco muito interessante e tem a Inara nesse livro saindo em uma jornada épica atrás de um antigo conhecido com a ajuda de ninguém mesmo do que nosso protagonista favorito Asher que também está tentando ajudar a vencer essa guerra a sua maneira tudo culminando numa batalha incrível esse livro com certeza foi um gostinho do que estar por vir no último capítulo da saga e com certeza será um final épico espero muito do último livro que os personagens tenham um encerramento satisfatório e que o final traga a sensação de que toda a jornada realmente valeu a pena.
September 27, 2020
From the first book to this book I have never been disappointed, a truly epic tale. However, A sober Doran and the ending who could have seen that coming, wow!
October 7, 2020
Got this on kindle unlimited the moment it was released. and finished it in 3 days.
Upon completion and rereading the last few paras, the hairs on my body stood at their ends. I cried with satisfaction and anticipation of what was and what is to come in the future.
This is one of the, if not the best fantasy series in recent times that has kept me glued to wanting more of the echoes saga.
To the author: You sir, are the best at your craft. Loved the echoes saga. And i will buy the entire series as soon as its released in paperback/hardcover editions. :)
Upon completion and rereading the last few paras, the hairs on my body stood at their ends. I cried with satisfaction and anticipation of what was and what is to come in the future.
This is one of the, if not the best fantasy series in recent times that has kept me glued to wanting more of the echoes saga.
To the author: You sir, are the best at your craft. Loved the echoes saga. And i will buy the entire series as soon as its released in paperback/hardcover editions. :)
March 19, 2022
Hot Damn that was Blood Brilliant!!!!
Wow that was good. Reading the first three books an reading the last three books is really amazing. The writer has been pulling it all together. Asher is quietly in the center of it all. Its makes my mind tick back though all of the books an make you open your mind to what the writer what's you to see. In his own quiet way. Gives me goosebumps. Can't thank you enough Philip Quaintrell. On to book #3 an #9
Wow that was good. Reading the first three books an reading the last three books is really amazing. The writer has been pulling it all together. Asher is quietly in the center of it all. Its makes my mind tick back though all of the books an make you open your mind to what the writer what's you to see. In his own quiet way. Gives me goosebumps. Can't thank you enough Philip Quaintrell. On to book #3 an #9
September 5, 2023
The plot takes place just ten months after the last book where chaos is strife. The king is missing, the leader of the Dragorn is missing, Reyna imprisoned by her own son Alijah who with Malliath continue their reign of terror across the lands in his bid to rule all.
There are plenty of character dilemma’s and personal sacrifices which were emotionally impactful, skilfully avoiding the pitfall of becoming excessively melodramatic. I enjoyed the sense of humour the author brings to the characters despite their circumstances and also the constant development of their personalities.
As usual there’s lots of imagination inspiring world building which I soaked up greedily. It feels like everyone ever mentioned in this series of books is coming together to fight for a common cause. I think an immense war is on the horizon for the final book involving elves, dwarves, humans and everything in between.
I have never felt these books to be padded out or random characters appearing just for the sake of a story line only to get killed off a bit later in a book, everything, everyone and every place is there for a reason you just don’t know it yet. Time and time again the story dazzles us with so many amazing fighting scenes and styles unique to each character, it’s truly amazing. There is an overall sense of belonging in the world for each of the characters and also a purpose which brings out the best in them all wether you root for the good or the bad.
On the whole another beautifully written book which was moving, engaging, thought provoking, choc full of believable characters and an AMAZING ending which had me in tears of joy. I would love to go on and on about this book I enjoyed it so much but I'd be going into spoiler territory. I am very much looking forward to the next book but will be sad at the same time as it’s the last..
There are plenty of character dilemma’s and personal sacrifices which were emotionally impactful, skilfully avoiding the pitfall of becoming excessively melodramatic. I enjoyed the sense of humour the author brings to the characters despite their circumstances and also the constant development of their personalities.
As usual there’s lots of imagination inspiring world building which I soaked up greedily. It feels like everyone ever mentioned in this series of books is coming together to fight for a common cause. I think an immense war is on the horizon for the final book involving elves, dwarves, humans and everything in between.
I have never felt these books to be padded out or random characters appearing just for the sake of a story line only to get killed off a bit later in a book, everything, everyone and every place is there for a reason you just don’t know it yet. Time and time again the story dazzles us with so many amazing fighting scenes and styles unique to each character, it’s truly amazing. There is an overall sense of belonging in the world for each of the characters and also a purpose which brings out the best in them all wether you root for the good or the bad.
On the whole another beautifully written book which was moving, engaging, thought provoking, choc full of believable characters and an AMAZING ending which had me in tears of joy. I would love to go on and on about this book I enjoyed it so much but I'd be going into spoiler territory. I am very much looking forward to the next book but will be sad at the same time as it’s the last..
October 29, 2020
The reason for my review:
-never ending story dragging on
-opposite of a page turner as you can see what is coming around every corner, it drags on like a bad movie
-characters have no development and their actions relative to their initial character leave one questioning
-they keep the main protagonist alive even though he has killed thousands of people, really?
-the series is being extended at the expense of storytelling
-have no interest in any of the characters anymore due to same story line over and over and over again with the same outcomes
I thought the author did a good job in the first three books; since then straight down hill.
-never ending story dragging on
-opposite of a page turner as you can see what is coming around every corner, it drags on like a bad movie
-characters have no development and their actions relative to their initial character leave one questioning
-they keep the main protagonist alive even though he has killed thousands of people, really?
-the series is being extended at the expense of storytelling
-have no interest in any of the characters anymore due to same story line over and over and over again with the same outcomes
I thought the author did a good job in the first three books; since then straight down hill.
April 30, 2023
A full review for this book, getting closer to finishing the series! https://www.solseit.com/blog-2-2/last...
A few thoughts on whether to read the Echoes saga: https://www.solseit.com/blog-2/why-re...
A few thoughts on whether to read the Echoes saga: https://www.solseit.com/blog-2/why-re...
August 1, 2025
The Last Dragorn hits hard with its story of loss and brokenness, where every victory feels hollow and every loss echoes deep. The characters are scarred and broken, grappling with the consequences of their choices in a world that’s falling apart. Yet, amid the darkness, there are glimpses of hope—maybe redemption is still possible.
That said, the book does face some pacing challenges. There are multiple side quests and detours that occasionally slow the momentum, making parts of the story feel stretched or delayed. Some character decisions, while understandable within their emotional context, can feel frustrating as they prolong conflicts or hesitation at critical moments. These elements slightly detract from the overall flow but do not overshadow the compelling narrative and emotional depth.
This story doesn’t shy away from the cost of war and power, but it also reminds us that even when things seem hopeless, there’s still a reason to keep fighting. It was still an amazing, gripping, emotional read that stays with you long after the last page. I can’t wait to start A Clash Of Fates~
That said, the book does face some pacing challenges. There are multiple side quests and detours that occasionally slow the momentum, making parts of the story feel stretched or delayed. Some character decisions, while understandable within their emotional context, can feel frustrating as they prolong conflicts or hesitation at critical moments. These elements slightly detract from the overall flow but do not overshadow the compelling narrative and emotional depth.
This story doesn’t shy away from the cost of war and power, but it also reminds us that even when things seem hopeless, there’s still a reason to keep fighting. It was still an amazing, gripping, emotional read that stays with you long after the last page. I can’t wait to start A Clash Of Fates~
December 28, 2020
Great Epic of a Series
My first review for any of this series, and thus the 5 stars indicate my love for the tale thus far. I am finally taking the time to review it as it seems I have come to the current end and have a small wait before the finale is released.
Character and world development is spot on, and being an avid reader of fantasy, I can pleasantly say that this long series avoids the trap that many exhibit by stating fresh throughout, never growing stale and keeping the story moving along at a great clip. This story has become one of my favorites, and I look forward to reading about these characters in the years to come. Thank you for sharing this world of yours with the rest of us!
My first review for any of this series, and thus the 5 stars indicate my love for the tale thus far. I am finally taking the time to review it as it seems I have come to the current end and have a small wait before the finale is released.
Character and world development is spot on, and being an avid reader of fantasy, I can pleasantly say that this long series avoids the trap that many exhibit by stating fresh throughout, never growing stale and keeping the story moving along at a great clip. This story has become one of my favorites, and I look forward to reading about these characters in the years to come. Thank you for sharing this world of yours with the rest of us!
September 26, 2020
More please!
I have read many books of all kinds and I can say this series has kept me on the edge of my seat. All the characters have been built until you can feel the things they experience. They live around you as you read. I have not read any other books by you but I intend too. Keep writing. Your style is unique and continue to expand it. I look forward to book 9. Thank you.
I have read many books of all kinds and I can say this series has kept me on the edge of my seat. All the characters have been built until you can feel the things they experience. They live around you as you read. I have not read any other books by you but I intend too. Keep writing. Your style is unique and continue to expand it. I look forward to book 9. Thank you.
September 16, 2024
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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Surprisingly, this is my lowest rating for this series so far, though I did still enjoy this, there was just a little bit to it that made me question things. First, the Star Wars themes I keep talking about don’t stop, I can feel it throughout each book and it didn’t stop here. The pacing of the story felt a little faster than previous installments of the series, at least early on and towards the end it did, the battles that take place just made it feel faster because they were so intense and had my focus causing me to keep going to see what happened next. In between that though, is where it had me questioning things, like the splitting up of the characters while there was this massive war going on. The reasoning made sense, but at the same time, there is a massive war happening and you take away some of your best warriors to do a side-quest.
The crazy part about all of this, is that, with this being the penultimate book of the series, and of all three book two’s of this saga, this is the one that felt the most like it suffered from the dreaded “middle book syndrome.” While it was exciting to see a lot of the battles that happened, they were a bit inconsequential, more characters were dropped in like mermen and centaurs, but were essentially relegated to name dropping to show they were in the world, rather than being used within the story. And then there is one of the things I dislike the most in movies or books, and that is the “I’ve got dire info that needs to be shared, but a sound happened and now it can wait to be told later.” All that sounds like this is terrible, but I assure you, it is not. The “side-quests” become exciting and they uncover great information as well as more thrilling fight scenes, plus the epilogue had me super excited to see how the finale ends!
“I think every generation believes there were simpler times. All have known hardship, from the dawn of the world I’m sure. What defines them is their will to overcome such hardships and forge a better tomorrow.”
Doran is still my favorite and as I always say, he’s a scene thief. I always love when I get to read his parts or when he shows up. Inara, Asher, Galanör and Alijah in particular were also tremendous throughout, each of their growth stood out more than anyone, even if Alijah is the big baddie. With that being said, I had some issues with one particular character. Vighon has grown on me throughout the series with his development, he did get better as it went on, but I’m just not sure I loved the direction his character went during a majority of this particular book, I really struggled with him.
I still have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Steven Brands narration, since I feel that he has a bit of a monotonous voice, but as I’ve said before, he’s definitely growing on me and I can feel a difference from the first trilogy to now, maybe he himself, has grown as a narrator, though the voices are still a bit too similar for my taste. The whispersync audio production issues I’ve had are still there, like I said before, it doesn’t hurt my experience with the story, but it does hurt my OCD brain hearing a sentence or paragraph finish and the highlighting several words behind or ahead, Podium really needs to fix this issue.
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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
Surprisingly, this is my lowest rating for this series so far, though I did still enjoy this, there was just a little bit to it that made me question things. First, the Star Wars themes I keep talking about don’t stop, I can feel it throughout each book and it didn’t stop here. The pacing of the story felt a little faster than previous installments of the series, at least early on and towards the end it did, the battles that take place just made it feel faster because they were so intense and had my focus causing me to keep going to see what happened next. In between that though, is where it had me questioning things, like the splitting up of the characters while there was this massive war going on. The reasoning made sense, but at the same time, there is a massive war happening and you take away some of your best warriors to do a side-quest.
The crazy part about all of this, is that, with this being the penultimate book of the series, and of all three book two’s of this saga, this is the one that felt the most like it suffered from the dreaded “middle book syndrome.” While it was exciting to see a lot of the battles that happened, they were a bit inconsequential, more characters were dropped in like mermen and centaurs, but were essentially relegated to name dropping to show they were in the world, rather than being used within the story. And then there is one of the things I dislike the most in movies or books, and that is the “I’ve got dire info that needs to be shared, but a sound happened and now it can wait to be told later.” All that sounds like this is terrible, but I assure you, it is not. The “side-quests” become exciting and they uncover great information as well as more thrilling fight scenes, plus the epilogue had me super excited to see how the finale ends!
“I think every generation believes there were simpler times. All have known hardship, from the dawn of the world I’m sure. What defines them is their will to overcome such hardships and forge a better tomorrow.”
Doran is still my favorite and as I always say, he’s a scene thief. I always love when I get to read his parts or when he shows up. Inara, Asher, Galanör and Alijah in particular were also tremendous throughout, each of their growth stood out more than anyone, even if Alijah is the big baddie. With that being said, I had some issues with one particular character. Vighon has grown on me throughout the series with his development, he did get better as it went on, but I’m just not sure I loved the direction his character went during a majority of this particular book, I really struggled with him.
I still have a bit of a love/hate relationship with Steven Brands narration, since I feel that he has a bit of a monotonous voice, but as I’ve said before, he’s definitely growing on me and I can feel a difference from the first trilogy to now, maybe he himself, has grown as a narrator, though the voices are still a bit too similar for my taste. The whispersync audio production issues I’ve had are still there, like I said before, it doesn’t hurt my experience with the story, but it does hurt my OCD brain hearing a sentence or paragraph finish and the highlighting several words behind or ahead, Podium really needs to fix this issue.
March 2, 2023
I have enjoyed the series from the time I picked up the first book. However, I’m sad to say that I felt this book was just not my cup of tea. I took ages just to complete it because there were so many side quests that did not interest me, and did not add on to the plot. I am still expecting a grand finale in book 9 and hope this book was just an unusual outlier in what has otherwise been a great series.
March 10, 2024
This book has definitely entered the category as my favorite book I have read to date. The story throughout this series has been nothing short of amazing.
At this point I am not going to say anything about the book besides you really need to get into this series ASAP!
I am both so excited to see how this ends and am sad that it will be over. I have grown with these characters and I am not ready to leave them yet. Needless to say I will be reading this last book very slowly.
At this point I am not going to say anything about the book besides you really need to get into this series ASAP!
I am both so excited to see how this ends and am sad that it will be over. I have grown with these characters and I am not ready to leave them yet. Needless to say I will be reading this last book very slowly.
September 5, 2023
don’t think I’ve ever hated a character that I’m not meant to hate as much as doran heavybelly. may he die a painful death and burn in hell for eternity 🙏
September 10, 2024
***3/4
June 1, 2025
The last couple of books in this series were rough for me. I found them to be a bit of a downer with the heroes constantly being thwarted. This book started out that way but ended up ending on a better note, and I'm eager to see where things are going to go.
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You can also follow me at:
Recordings of a Reader on Youtube
Writings of a Reader at Blogspot
Writings of a Reader on Facebook
September 8, 2025
I love this series so much. One book left but already one of my favorite series ever.
September 24, 2020
Top notch beginning to end
Epic quests, characters, stories and a nail biting ending. You can't go wrong with the series so thank you to the author.
Epic quests, characters, stories and a nail biting ending. You can't go wrong with the series so thank you to the author.
September 28, 2020
Arrrgggg
Wow! What a ride! Damn,damn damn. If you wanna know you gotta read it. Definitely worth reading. Clear as Mudd
Wow! What a ride! Damn,damn damn. If you wanna know you gotta read it. Definitely worth reading. Clear as Mudd
February 18, 2021
Such a great story. I’ve been looking forward to this one for a while. I drive a lot for work so I tend to listen to books most often. Anyway I couldn’t wait to download the latest book in this series and like every book leading up to this one it didn’t disappoint. I recommend this series to anyone that asks for a great story.
March 23, 2021
Awesome Series
This is my all time fav series - next to LOTR. The characters are deeply developed over time and you have a love/hate relationship with each. I can’t wait till the last book arrives - book #9! I will be sad tho knowing that the story is finished - I’m hoping for a fantastic ending - I don’t want to lose my fav characters but I have this feeling....I hope that all the good will triumph over all the evil. I keep checking to see if #9 is out yet - can’t find a release date anywhere! I don’t know how I’m going to find a better series than The Echoes Series!!
This is my all time fav series - next to LOTR. The characters are deeply developed over time and you have a love/hate relationship with each. I can’t wait till the last book arrives - book #9! I will be sad tho knowing that the story is finished - I’m hoping for a fantastic ending - I don’t want to lose my fav characters but I have this feeling....I hope that all the good will triumph over all the evil. I keep checking to see if #9 is out yet - can’t find a release date anywhere! I don’t know how I’m going to find a better series than The Echoes Series!!
May 24, 2022
This 8th book in the series felt like a rehash of all the other 7 books. Yes, there was a new foe to fight, yes there were some interesting turns of events. But, it feels like the author is just nursing as much out of this story as he can. I'll read the 9th and last book of the series - but frankly - this could have been a great 5 book series, instead it is a ponderous 9 books long.
September 27, 2020
This series is EPIC
I can't wait for the final chapter in this amazing story. I have loved every moment in following amazing characters and fabulous story lines. Thank you Philip for probably the best story I have ever read ( and I have read a lot).
I can't wait for the final chapter in this amazing story. I have loved every moment in following amazing characters and fabulous story lines. Thank you Philip for probably the best story I have ever read ( and I have read a lot).
October 10, 2020
Another outstanding read
The story has its hooks in me. I just have so many questions as i come to the end of book.
The writing and story telling have me so invested in the characters. Can't wait for book 9.
Thank you for such a wonderful and indepth world.
The story has its hooks in me. I just have so many questions as i come to the end of book.
The writing and story telling have me so invested in the characters. Can't wait for book 9.
Thank you for such a wonderful and indepth world.
November 12, 2021
Story is good with tons of action and some really mysteries and plot twists but I'm disappointed in how Inara's bond changed with Athes (I listen with Audible so I don't know how to spell the names, lol). I mean, I understand that the title of the book is the last of the dragorn but it's still disappointing that their bond changed. I just keep feeling like the author is forcing Inara and Vigon to fall in love and it's super annoying. So the only thing stopping Inara from saying yes to Vigon was her bond with a dragon? Okay, let's conveniently change it so now she can finally be with Vigon since he's been so persistent. Ugh, big eye roll there. In other news, I'm happy that Galinor is finding some happiness and that we can listen to his inner thoughts again. I missed him so this was great!
Some things that don't check out though include the fact that Gideon and Irlago left for Erador and hadn't come back in like 8 years. Like why did NO ONE go looking for them? I'm most surprised at Reyna, the dragon queen, because Irlago is her baby! Someone should have at least gone to check in. I know that they were banished from Dragon's Reach but still, everyone knew where they were going. It's like a 2 day flight to just show up, look for him, tell him bye, and then leave. It's just ridiculous. Also, no one responded to Inara's call through the magic communicator, I forgot its name. It's courtesy to at least answer and say, hey, Gideon is banished and he's been gone so you're on your own. I feel like that would've been more efficient but it's not as dramatic, that's for sure.
I really hope Adelandra is okay and makes it out alive but I'm starting to doubt it. I liked her way better than Reyna, especially after the scene where she refused to go with Nathaniel. Like girl, that is your husband, your spouse, your soul mate! That was frustrating.
Another frustrating thing was that no one killed Elijah when they had the chance! Adelandra came the closest and then she changed her mind because he "needed a chance to redeem himself". At what point does a grown man take accountability for his actions? He's not a little kid anymore. He killed his aunt and almost killed his sister! Not to mention all the necromancy and general battles. This is a war and he's the enemy. I didn't like Cassian and Nathaniel is annoying, but they're right, Elijah needs to pay for his actions and right now he's the enemy leader and they need to fight him. At least imprison him or whatever if they want to "rehabilitate" him but come on, they just keep letting him get away, it's so pathetic at this point. Nathaniel told Reyna that they lost Elijah in the Bastion, and he's completely right about that. I mean, I know that they're "always a chance of redemption" but at what cost? Especially since everyone is giving Elijah the chance and he just throws it away. And Maliath can't be the only one to blame. They are bonded so yes, Maliath can influence Elijah but he is also choosing to do these things. I don't know. I'm sure there can be a whole philosophical debate but it is frustrating to listen to it in the midst of war.
I don't like the way the story is heading because of that but the epilogue is giving me some hope now that Asher seemed to have bonded with a baby dragon! That is so exciting! I wonder whether he will change his bond though, too, like Irlago and Gideon and Inara and Aethes did. That would suck but I guess it would follow the thread of a new order of "something between a dragon rider and a dragorn". I'm just glad that Asher and Gideon are still alive. Especially Gideon and Irlago. I hope Irlago will speak more in the next book.
Some things that don't check out though include the fact that Gideon and Irlago left for Erador and hadn't come back in like 8 years. Like why did NO ONE go looking for them? I'm most surprised at Reyna, the dragon queen, because Irlago is her baby! Someone should have at least gone to check in. I know that they were banished from Dragon's Reach but still, everyone knew where they were going. It's like a 2 day flight to just show up, look for him, tell him bye, and then leave. It's just ridiculous. Also, no one responded to Inara's call through the magic communicator, I forgot its name. It's courtesy to at least answer and say, hey, Gideon is banished and he's been gone so you're on your own. I feel like that would've been more efficient but it's not as dramatic, that's for sure.
I really hope Adelandra is okay and makes it out alive but I'm starting to doubt it. I liked her way better than Reyna, especially after the scene where she refused to go with Nathaniel. Like girl, that is your husband, your spouse, your soul mate! That was frustrating.
Another frustrating thing was that no one killed Elijah when they had the chance! Adelandra came the closest and then she changed her mind because he "needed a chance to redeem himself". At what point does a grown man take accountability for his actions? He's not a little kid anymore. He killed his aunt and almost killed his sister! Not to mention all the necromancy and general battles. This is a war and he's the enemy. I didn't like Cassian and Nathaniel is annoying, but they're right, Elijah needs to pay for his actions and right now he's the enemy leader and they need to fight him. At least imprison him or whatever if they want to "rehabilitate" him but come on, they just keep letting him get away, it's so pathetic at this point. Nathaniel told Reyna that they lost Elijah in the Bastion, and he's completely right about that. I mean, I know that they're "always a chance of redemption" but at what cost? Especially since everyone is giving Elijah the chance and he just throws it away. And Maliath can't be the only one to blame. They are bonded so yes, Maliath can influence Elijah but he is also choosing to do these things. I don't know. I'm sure there can be a whole philosophical debate but it is frustrating to listen to it in the midst of war.
I don't like the way the story is heading because of that but the epilogue is giving me some hope now that Asher seemed to have bonded with a baby dragon! That is so exciting! I wonder whether he will change his bond though, too, like Irlago and Gideon and Inara and Aethes did. That would suck but I guess it would follow the thread of a new order of "something between a dragon rider and a dragorn". I'm just glad that Asher and Gideon are still alive. Especially Gideon and Irlago. I hope Irlago will speak more in the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
The third book of the final trilogy.
The rebellion finally makes some major gains.
Asher and Inara, a Dragorn (a dragon rider with a close magical bond with her dragon), and her bonded dragon, travel to the land of Erador looking for Gideon, who went there years ago searching for answers. They discover part of the 'villain's' evil plan. They also find a magical incubator full of dragon eggs. While there a fight ensues and Asher protects a particular egg and feels the need to keep it. He 'magically' bonds with the egg, even though he doesn't understand what is happening.
We finally see Galanor again playing a major role. Doran is back with the dwarfs. In fact, all the major powers of the world are represented, united against a common enemy.
This is full of answers, a major battle and while the middle book of the last trilogy was doom and gloom at its finest, this middle book reveals our heroes have made gains and they now have a fightings chance and are coming closer and closer to a way to fight the enemy.
The 'bad' guy being clearly unhinged led to a deduction of one star. Like the villain in the first trilogy, he's listening to a 'voice' in his head. Of course, in both cases, the voices are authentic, not imaginary, but it comes across as a little repetitive.
The rebellion finally makes some major gains.
Asher and Inara, a Dragorn (a dragon rider with a close magical bond with her dragon), and her bonded dragon, travel to the land of Erador looking for Gideon, who went there years ago searching for answers. They discover part of the 'villain's' evil plan. They also find a magical incubator full of dragon eggs. While there a fight ensues and Asher protects a particular egg and feels the need to keep it. He 'magically' bonds with the egg, even though he doesn't understand what is happening.
We finally see Galanor again playing a major role. Doran is back with the dwarfs. In fact, all the major powers of the world are represented, united against a common enemy.
This is full of answers, a major battle and while the middle book of the last trilogy was doom and gloom at its finest, this middle book reveals our heroes have made gains and they now have a fightings chance and are coming closer and closer to a way to fight the enemy.
The 'bad' guy being clearly unhinged led to a deduction of one star. Like the villain in the first trilogy, he's listening to a 'voice' in his head. Of course, in both cases, the voices are authentic, not imaginary, but it comes across as a little repetitive.
December 2, 2024
Out of all 8 books I’ve read, this is definitively the top 2 of the series. I said previously that this series has everything, but NOW I believe this series truly has everything for a reader. Anything you want, the Echoes Saga has it.
Head in my hands, emotions overflowing, I was deeply distraught during Last of the Dragorn. Choices were made, royalty had fallen, and what I thought the conflict was had been blown out of the water. What do you mean Alijah is trying to *spoiler spoiler spoiler*? What do you mean that Asher found *spoiler spoiler spoiler*?
Originally I was fretting over the title and thinking “what happened to the other dragorn? Who’s the last dragorn? Last I checked, there were multiple ones. Did Alijah get to them??” My figurative nails were chewed off. I was supposed be enjoying a nice family trip in New York but I could not because I needed to know how Russell and Doran are doing!
I can’t imagine where the story will go/end with the last book. This has already been cemented in my brain as my top 10 series of all time, and it’s not number 10. I just need to know how much to yell about this series after I finish it. I’ll be glad to leave Verda for a while, but I’m already planning my trip back.
Head in my hands, emotions overflowing, I was deeply distraught during Last of the Dragorn. Choices were made, royalty had fallen, and what I thought the conflict was had been blown out of the water. What do you mean Alijah is trying to *spoiler spoiler spoiler*? What do you mean that Asher found *spoiler spoiler spoiler*?
Originally I was fretting over the title and thinking “what happened to the other dragorn? Who’s the last dragorn? Last I checked, there were multiple ones. Did Alijah get to them??” My figurative nails were chewed off. I was supposed be enjoying a nice family trip in New York but I could not because I needed to know how Russell and Doran are doing!
I can’t imagine where the story will go/end with the last book. This has already been cemented in my brain as my top 10 series of all time, and it’s not number 10. I just need to know how much to yell about this series after I finish it. I’ll be glad to leave Verda for a while, but I’m already planning my trip back.
January 22, 2025
I'm going to be honest I thought overall the book was ok except for the ending which was so bad it ruined the whole book. It was so bad that if this was the first or second book in the series I would definitely drop it. The book ended with Adilandra, queen of the elves, who had seen thousands of her fellow elves killed by Alijah having the perfect chance to kill him letting him live and actually kinda helping him by teleporting away from the battle. Additionally, right at the end of the book Gideon had something important to tell Inara but right before he could tell her they got separated and he got an injury so bad he could die so she may never know.
Otherwise I quite liked the book, it's set 2 years after the last Vighon and Asher have left the rebellion (which is faltering) and need to be brought back in, the sword of the north needs to be retrieved and whatever Alijah is doing with the silvir towers needs to be stopped.
When we do discover Alijahs goal with the towers I like that his goal of riding the world of magic with them may actually help the world.
Otherwise I quite liked the book, it's set 2 years after the last Vighon and Asher have left the rebellion (which is faltering) and need to be brought back in, the sword of the north needs to be retrieved and whatever Alijah is doing with the silvir towers needs to be stopped.
When we do discover Alijahs goal with the towers I like that his goal of riding the world of magic with them may actually help the world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2021
Unbelievably brilliant
These books, one through eight, are all brilliant and unbelievably unique. All of the main characters, from Inara, Vighon, Asher, etc. just doesn't stop the thrill ride you experience from within to read it all to the end of book eight. What a book!! Intensely inspiring stories throughout indie. Vighon especially. Alijah has lost his incredible mind and Maliath with him. I am really happy that I found out what happened to Gideon and his faithful companion the dragon Ilargo. They've been through a lot but I'm sure it will continue in the last book of The Echo Sagas. Just like the rest of the cast. I can't wait to read the last one. I'm sure it will even topple this one.
These books, one through eight, are all brilliant and unbelievably unique. All of the main characters, from Inara, Vighon, Asher, etc. just doesn't stop the thrill ride you experience from within to read it all to the end of book eight. What a book!! Intensely inspiring stories throughout indie. Vighon especially. Alijah has lost his incredible mind and Maliath with him. I am really happy that I found out what happened to Gideon and his faithful companion the dragon Ilargo. They've been through a lot but I'm sure it will continue in the last book of The Echo Sagas. Just like the rest of the cast. I can't wait to read the last one. I'm sure it will even topple this one.
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