Dragon and Soldier (Dragonback, #2)
by Timothy Zahn (Goodreads Author)

4 out of 5 stars

Jack and Draycos are searching for information from a mercenary group, so Jack joins the group as an indentured soldier, hoping to sneak into their computer systems. After only ten days of training, Jack and his fellow teen soldiers are sent into battle. Things appear to be safe enough on the edges of the war and Jack is given sentry duty, but betrayal and danger are lurking in the shadows. Only Draycos, a poet warrior of the K’da, can help Jack to escape!

I love the nonstop action in this book! And it’s not just about blowing things up and guns and chase scenes either. It has all those things, but there’s also a puzzle aspect to how the characters interact with one another and there is new information that is revealed in shocking plot twists. It really kept my attention. It’s such an exciting plot!

Especially loved seeing how Jack and Draycos have a closer and more trusting relationship in this book. They get into some very sticky situations where there’s no time to explain and they just have to blindly trust the other person, and that level of faith in another person is truly special. I just love their friendship!

I also really enjoyed the exploration of deeper themes of morality in this book since Jack and Draycos have such different philosophies about life. They have some really engaging discussions, and it was interesting how Jack begins to question the selfish worldview that he previously had embraced.

I love all the characters, the plot, the themes, the writing style! Everything about this book is just so delightful. I can’t wait to read more from the series!