This is a firsthand account of Korin's journey that starts as a simple quest to find his birth parents. However, his journey quickly turns into a fight for his life, and the lives of those he loves.
With nothing to go on but a vague dream which may or may not be memory, Korinalis Karell has traveled Amirand for three years in search of his birth parents. With a magical Contract to fund his journey and a magic talking wizard cat named Max to keep him out of trouble, Korin has made his way through the world with no success in finding them.
However, what starts out as a seemingly simple Contract job to find a stolen gem for a count quickly turns into a fight for survival that brings about revelations about Korin's life that turn his world inside-out and upside-down.
With the aid of a mediocre wizard who happens to be the daughter of the most powerful wizard in Amirand, a chatterbox Kolarin, and Max, Korin sets out to discover the secrets of his past so that he may live to see his future.
This is a firsthand account of Korin's journey as he chases down thieves, is chased down by a dragon and gods-forsaken creatures of death, and finds out that life just never seems to get easier.
Professional Reviews
Dragon Gem a literary gem!
I loved this awesome page-turner! Right away it pulled me in and I couldn't put it down. The author has created a tale of adventure, mystery, romance, and humor all rolled into one. The main character, Korin, on a quest to find his birth parents, ends up experiencing far more than he bargained for and the journey turns into one that becomes a constant fight for his very survival. Along the way he learns that things are not always as they seem, and the mystery of his origin begins to emerge as he encounters shady characters along the way who want him dead. But why? Read this book for the answer. Definitely a great read! Loved it!
Hang on to your hat - this is a real roller coaster ride!
I generally do not read fantasy, although I loved the Harry Potter series. However, it was as if a giant hand snatched me into The Dragon Gem and would not let go until I had read every word. I love the characters and the total excitement Brian Beam has created. Korin is a very believable character with a great sense of humor and a familiarness that tugs at the heartstrings. On a quest for the truth, he is alternately chased by monsters and his inner demons, all the while having a great sense of humor and caring for his friends. Max is one of the greatest characters ever (I can say that about a wizard cat, right?) and I loved him! This book has everything - fantasy, romance, battles with monsters, family ties, wizardry, and it's a total roller coaster all the way. I do have to say that if the book were properly edited I feel that it would be a runaway bestseller. I chose not to address those concerns here and am just speaking to the content of the book. Mr. Beam is a witty writer and his characters spring from the page and become your best friends. You care what happens to them and root for them to overcome obstacles and find what they are searching for. I was a bit let down by the end, but again, it was due to editing and I cannot give less credence to the story because of it. Good job all around Mr. Beam. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series - you have hooked me on fantasy!
The Dragon Gem a Great Book
The Dragon Gem is a true gem in itself. The book is well written and edited. The story flows well and is full of humor and generally is a great read. I am looking forward to the purchase of a sequel.
Book Two of The Jade Owl Legacy Series: The quest continues as the Professor and his confidants discover the full weight of their mission and acquire supernatural powers to further heir success.
