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Dragonblood Assassin #3
Silver Spines
Book 3 in the Dragonblood Assassin Series from #1 Audible and Washington Post bestseller Jaime Castle & Epic Fantasy legend Andy Peloquin. It's perfect for fans of the Forgotten Realms , Joe Abercrombie, David Dalglish, and Kel Kade.
626 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2023
188 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Castle
45 books195 followersJaime Castle hails from the great nation of Texas where he lives with his wife and two children and enjoys anything creative. A self-proclaimed comic book nerd and artist, he spends what little free time he can muster with his art tablet.
Jaime is a #1 Audible Bestseller, Audible Originals author (The Luna Missile Crisis) and co-created and co-authored The Buried Goddess Saga, which includes the IPPY award-winning Web of Eyes.
Fantasy:
The Buried Goddess Saga:
Web of Eyes
Winds of War
Will of Fire
Way of Gods
War of Men
Word of Truth
Dragonblood Assassin:
Black Talon
Red Claw
Silver Spines
Golden Flames (2023/2024)
RAPTORS:
Sidekick
Superteam
Scions
Baron Steele
HARRIER (Raptors)
Justice
The Trench
Invasion
The Black Badge:
Dead Acre
Cold as Hell
Vein Pursuits
Ace in the Hole (2024)
Jeff the Game Master:
Manufacturing Magic
Manipulating Magic
Mastering Magic
Science Fiction:
This Long Vigil
The Luna Missile Crisis
ROGUE STARS:
Purgatory (2024)
Divine Intervention (2024)
Reclamation (2024)
Find out more at www.jaimecastle.com
Jaime is a #1 Audible Bestseller, Audible Originals author (The Luna Missile Crisis) and co-created and co-authored The Buried Goddess Saga, which includes the IPPY award-winning Web of Eyes.
Fantasy:
The Buried Goddess Saga:
Web of Eyes
Winds of War
Will of Fire
Way of Gods
War of Men
Word of Truth
Dragonblood Assassin:
Black Talon
Red Claw
Silver Spines
Golden Flames (2023/2024)
RAPTORS:
Sidekick
Superteam
Scions
Baron Steele
HARRIER (Raptors)
Justice
The Trench
Invasion
The Black Badge:
Dead Acre
Cold as Hell
Vein Pursuits
Ace in the Hole (2024)
Jeff the Game Master:
Manufacturing Magic
Manipulating Magic
Mastering Magic
Science Fiction:
This Long Vigil
The Luna Missile Crisis
ROGUE STARS:
Purgatory (2024)
Divine Intervention (2024)
Reclamation (2024)
Find out more at www.jaimecastle.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 14, 2023
I know that you guys did not really do that to me 😤 I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut. How??? I don’t even understand how that happened! How does that kid fake an illness that bad this entire time?! And whyyyy???? This is not what I meant when I said I wanted more of Kullen and Jaylen guys. I am absolutely fuming right now but other than this, this was such an amazing book. I don’t care for the two MC’s pining after each other but I admit that they are both awesome. Now I’m going to go back to my moping while wait for the next freaking book to find out if this is for real. I mean was the kid always a traitor or did something happen to him when he was missing in the first book?? Seriously, wtf?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2023
WHAT THE FUCK!? there's no way I just read what I think I just read and then the book just left it off like that??
Outta pocket cliffhanger aside, I really enjoyed this book, there were parts of it that I felt were a little repetitive (like Kullen receiving a mission from Wyrmac, having an elaborate adventure and gathering a shit ton of info, and then debriefing the Emperor on it afterward only for him to forget to inform Wyrmac of a vital piece of information), which seems to be a pattern in all the books in the series so far but they don't reduce the quality of the story. Also, I totally didn't see that plot twist coming, which has become kinda rare lately cuz a lot of the fantasy books I've read recently have been super predictable but I can definitely say this one has not fallen prey to that. I really need the next book to come out soon because I'm dying for some answers.
I don't remember if I mentioned this in my reviews of the previous books but one thing I really want to see in the next book is more exploration into Kullen's magic. Like just seeing all the applications of Natisse's magic in this book only intensified my desire to see Kullen explore his magic in similar ways. I know he's obviously had extensive training with his magic and knows his limitations but he only uses his magic for stealth or fleeing purposes, he hasn't really seemed to explore the more combative aspects his magic might have which is a total waste. I'd really like to have more scenes of Kullen performing super awesome magical feats like we saw from Natisse in this book. I like Natisse and she's had a lot of growth during the past 3 books but fire magic is a fairly basic magic in the fantasy genre so it's not as intriguing to me as Kullen's magic so I wanna see more of the latter.
But anyway, this was a great book, the series has only gotten better as it's continued and I'm excited for the next one!
Outta pocket cliffhanger aside, I really enjoyed this book, there were parts of it that I felt were a little repetitive (like Kullen receiving a mission from Wyrmac, having an elaborate adventure and gathering a shit ton of info, and then debriefing the Emperor on it afterward only for him to forget to inform Wyrmac of a vital piece of information), which seems to be a pattern in all the books in the series so far but they don't reduce the quality of the story. Also, I totally didn't see that plot twist coming, which has become kinda rare lately cuz a lot of the fantasy books I've read recently have been super predictable but I can definitely say this one has not fallen prey to that. I really need the next book to come out soon because I'm dying for some answers.
I don't remember if I mentioned this in my reviews of the previous books but one thing I really want to see in the next book is more exploration into Kullen's magic. Like just seeing all the applications of Natisse's magic in this book only intensified my desire to see Kullen explore his magic in similar ways. I know he's obviously had extensive training with his magic and knows his limitations but he only uses his magic for stealth or fleeing purposes, he hasn't really seemed to explore the more combative aspects his magic might have which is a total waste. I'd really like to have more scenes of Kullen performing super awesome magical feats like we saw from Natisse in this book. I like Natisse and she's had a lot of growth during the past 3 books but fire magic is a fairly basic magic in the fantasy genre so it's not as intriguing to me as Kullen's magic so I wanna see more of the latter.
But anyway, this was a great book, the series has only gotten better as it's continued and I'm excited for the next one!
September 18, 2023
"Silver Spines," the third installment in the Dragonblood Assassin series by Jaime Castle and Andy Peloquin, thrusts readers into a world on the brink of war, where ancient foes and new threats converge to challenge the very fabric of Dimvein.
The narrative unfolds as the Empire faces formidable adversaries. The Blood Clan pirates and the relentless Hudar Horde cavalry, joined by the long-lost Vandil magic, pose a grave danger to the realm. In the face of this dire threat, Kullen and Natisse must rise to the occasion, leveraging their unique skills and forming alliances to protect everything they hold dear. I love their partnership so, so much.
The heart of the story, for me, lies in the enduring bonds between characters, whether they are bonds of family, friendship, or the budding hints of romance. I was captivated by the growth and development of Natisse in particular, a character who continues to shine as the series progresses.
However, it's impossible to overlook the jaw-dropping cliffhanger that concludes "Silver Spines." The suspense and anticipation left by the ending are sure to leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment, hoping for answers to the many questions raised.
In summary, "Silver Spines" is a thrilling addition to the Dragonblood Assassin series, offering a rich blend of fantasy, adventure, and character-driven storytelling. With its compelling characters, intricate relationships, and the promise of epic battles to come, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy and epic adventures.
The narrative unfolds as the Empire faces formidable adversaries. The Blood Clan pirates and the relentless Hudar Horde cavalry, joined by the long-lost Vandil magic, pose a grave danger to the realm. In the face of this dire threat, Kullen and Natisse must rise to the occasion, leveraging their unique skills and forming alliances to protect everything they hold dear. I love their partnership so, so much.
The heart of the story, for me, lies in the enduring bonds between characters, whether they are bonds of family, friendship, or the budding hints of romance. I was captivated by the growth and development of Natisse in particular, a character who continues to shine as the series progresses.
However, it's impossible to overlook the jaw-dropping cliffhanger that concludes "Silver Spines." The suspense and anticipation left by the ending are sure to leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment, hoping for answers to the many questions raised.
In summary, "Silver Spines" is a thrilling addition to the Dragonblood Assassin series, offering a rich blend of fantasy, adventure, and character-driven storytelling. With its compelling characters, intricate relationships, and the promise of epic battles to come, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy and epic adventures.
February 1, 2025
Black Talon, īstajā vārdā Kullen ir Karmianas impērijas valdnieka Staņislava Vainmarka uzticamākais soģis, kuru izmantot slepeniem uzdevumiem, nepaklausīgo karalisko vai cita augsta statusa personu letālai sodīšanai, kad citas oficiālākas un atklātākas metodes izsmeltas vai vienkārši nav attiecīgajā reizē izmantojamas. No necilas izcelsmes bāreņunamā, Kulens ir augstu kāpis.
https://poseidons99.com/2025/02/01/ja...
https://poseidons99.com/2025/02/01/ja...
August 6, 2023
Oh my god you cannot leave it there, you hideous #$*%!@?!…
All right, I’m okay.
That was a ride.
We’re nearly 2 000 pages into this story, and on something along day five. Possibly six. I’m not sure, but it’s been less than a week. These people don’t sleep, hardly ever eat, and they have so much energy to fight it’s kind of ridiculous.
And I love it. Most of it, anyway.
We start off exactly where the last book left off, and as I’ve listened to them back to back I”m not entirely sure where that was. I think maybe they discovered the enemy fleet coming to Dimvein (and excuse any mutilations of the names of the story, because I’ve listened to all of it and I have no idea how they’re spelled). And then we were once more off to the races.
There are new surprises in the story, of course. People in this world are hardly ever what they appear to be. Some of the actions of our heroes had me scratching my head, especially when Natisse got a little bit too certain of herself (only to be torn down at the next moment, which was wholly expected). I was VERY glad to finally see her get over her anger at Uncle Ronan, because it was absolutely tedious, and I had a hard time understanding why she was so angry even though we got to hear about it ad nauseum. What people don’t have secrets? Why would his actions suddenly be put in question because he had another background than expected? Everyone has a past, and that past affects us and makes us act certain ways—and yet she thought she had to question everything? Ugh. It was exhausting.
The “finale”, and I use the term loosely as there isn’t one specific, but pretty much the whole second half or at least final third is continuous action, is a long line of one enemy more powerful than the next. Impossible odds, stacked atop each other. People dying everywhere.
Kullen is still my favorite character. I have a bit of trouble keeping track of the supporting cast—there are a lot of them by now—but there are several there who are… well, murderous sweethearts. I like them. Jad most of all.
And now I have to try to forget my frustration, because book 4 isn’t in existence yet and I have to keep living without knowing how it ends. There are threads I am curious to see where they end up, and of course, what happens to my favorite assassin…
Finally. One must have listened to a story a bit too long, when the curses in one’s head turns into stuff like ‘Ezrasil’s hairy ass’ instead of the usual ones. Yeah. Time to listen to something else.
All right, I’m okay.
That was a ride.
We’re nearly 2 000 pages into this story, and on something along day five. Possibly six. I’m not sure, but it’s been less than a week. These people don’t sleep, hardly ever eat, and they have so much energy to fight it’s kind of ridiculous.
And I love it. Most of it, anyway.
We start off exactly where the last book left off, and as I’ve listened to them back to back I”m not entirely sure where that was. I think maybe they discovered the enemy fleet coming to Dimvein (and excuse any mutilations of the names of the story, because I’ve listened to all of it and I have no idea how they’re spelled). And then we were once more off to the races.
There are new surprises in the story, of course. People in this world are hardly ever what they appear to be. Some of the actions of our heroes had me scratching my head, especially when Natisse got a little bit too certain of herself (only to be torn down at the next moment, which was wholly expected). I was VERY glad to finally see her get over her anger at Uncle Ronan, because it was absolutely tedious, and I had a hard time understanding why she was so angry even though we got to hear about it ad nauseum. What people don’t have secrets? Why would his actions suddenly be put in question because he had another background than expected? Everyone has a past, and that past affects us and makes us act certain ways—and yet she thought she had to question everything? Ugh. It was exhausting.
The “finale”, and I use the term loosely as there isn’t one specific, but pretty much the whole second half or at least final third is continuous action, is a long line of one enemy more powerful than the next. Impossible odds, stacked atop each other. People dying everywhere.
Kullen is still my favorite character. I have a bit of trouble keeping track of the supporting cast—there are a lot of them by now—but there are several there who are… well, murderous sweethearts. I like them. Jad most of all.
And now I have to try to forget my frustration, because book 4 isn’t in existence yet and I have to keep living without knowing how it ends. There are threads I am curious to see where they end up, and of course, what happens to my favorite assassin…
Finally. One must have listened to a story a bit too long, when the curses in one’s head turns into stuff like ‘Ezrasil’s hairy ass’ instead of the usual ones. Yeah. Time to listen to something else.
August 11, 2024
A solid 5 ⭐ read. This is an insanely paced, epic battle, race to the crazy cliffhanger of an ending, story!
Natisse and Kullen are back and in deep trouble. War is coming and it will take everyone to stem the tide of darkness.
We get to see a lot more of Natisse and her magic, she really comes into her power as her relationship with Gulgoth deepens.
I love the slow burn of the beginnings of love between Kullen and Natisse and that they put it aside to focus on the real life issues going on. That's good writing.
I was absolutely speechless at the twist at the end....I literally sat straight up with my mouth hanging open! That's exceptional writing! The authors killed it!
I'm immediately starting the next and final (for now?) book of this series. What a WILD ride!
Natisse and Kullen are back and in deep trouble. War is coming and it will take everyone to stem the tide of darkness.
We get to see a lot more of Natisse and her magic, she really comes into her power as her relationship with Gulgoth deepens.
I love the slow burn of the beginnings of love between Kullen and Natisse and that they put it aside to focus on the real life issues going on. That's good writing.
I was absolutely speechless at the twist at the end....I literally sat straight up with my mouth hanging open! That's exceptional writing! The authors killed it!
I'm immediately starting the next and final (for now?) book of this series. What a WILD ride!
July 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
me resultó demasiado largo y un poco denso.. lo que suma es que tiene bastante acción, pero los monólogos internos de los personajes se hacen muy repetitivos.
hay una parte del sistema de magia que es IDENTICO al de ryan cahill en the bound and the broken... será coincidencia? No lo sé
pronto estaré leyendo el cuarto porque en este el final me dejó manija
me resultó demasiado largo y un poco denso.. lo que suma es que tiene bastante acción, pero los monólogos internos de los personajes se hacen muy repetitivos.
hay una parte del sistema de magia que es IDENTICO al de ryan cahill en the bound and the broken... será coincidencia? No lo sé
pronto estaré leyendo el cuarto porque en este el final me dejó manija
June 14, 2024
⭐️ 2.5 stars ⭐️
February 4, 2025
I am screaaaaming at that ending omg these books are amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2024
The power, the discovery, the action...
Natisse and Kullen have so much going on it is astounding and flows so beautifully as it weaves each others stories building up both characters individually and together. They are so different yet so similar and the trials they are facing and have faced coupled with the trials they have yet to face are shocking and will keep you turning the page until the final blow. Gods we love a good cliff hanger! And you'll never see it coming! Good luck, prepare to laugh and have tisses for The tears you will inevitably shed.
The first 2 books of The Dragonblood Assassins were really good but this was the one that pulled me deeper my Indie book hole. Thank you Andy and Jaime! 🥰
Natisse and Kullen have so much going on it is astounding and flows so beautifully as it weaves each others stories building up both characters individually and together. They are so different yet so similar and the trials they are facing and have faced coupled with the trials they have yet to face are shocking and will keep you turning the page until the final blow. Gods we love a good cliff hanger! And you'll never see it coming! Good luck, prepare to laugh and have tisses for The tears you will inevitably shed.
The first 2 books of The Dragonblood Assassins were really good but this was the one that pulled me deeper my Indie book hole. Thank you Andy and Jaime! 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
This installation completely wrecked everything I thought I knew about who I liked. This installation is action packed, gripping and an emotional rollercoaster.
July 13, 2025
This book sure does start off with a bang! I thought the previous two were exciting, I had to take many deep breaths reading this one, to steady my pulse rate! Plunging right in, this book has more twists and turns than a merry-go-round! The betrayals come in thick and fast, my eyes opening wider and wider with every one. Who to trust, who not to trust, who a person is, who a person was, who to believe, is something they're all experiencing. All? Yeah, Kullen, Natisse, the Crimson Fang members....all of them! Not that I'd feel any different, geesh, when what you know about the person you THINK you know, crashes around your head, yeah, suspicion personified abounds! And it's vital that each of them get their act together, sort out their differences because the very empire is at risk. With an imminent invasion on the horizon (literally!) they need to work together to mitigate as much of the risk as they can. When the emperor calls on all who are bound to dragons and some don't answer, well... that's cause for concern!
So the Crimson Fang and Kullen need to discover the why and the where of these nobles and not kill each other in the process, fortify the city, weed out traitors, all in two days! Tough ask! And as if they don't have enough on their plate, there's also the fact that the shadowstone is weakening and that might be the bigger danger. With the danger hitting them from all sides, the action was fast and furious. The authors did a brilliant job of turning up the heat, until I was smoldering from the tension. The dangers they face go beyond the norm, not only from the treacherous nobles but with witchcraft and shamanism included in the mix, it's a wonder any of them survive. Many don't.... heartbreakingly so. Kullen and Natisse give it all they've got, never letting up for one second, fighting even though it looks like a lost cause. Natisse's resilience matches Kullen's perfectly, everything she is, everything she does, aligns to perfection. Kullen sums up Natisse perfectly with these thoughts "she left chaos and turmoil aplenty in her wake, but if nothing else, she certainly made his existence more interesting since the waves of their first meeting clashed" That's exactly how I feel about Natisse and Kullen both, characters with so many nuances, every one as interesting as the next.
Surprise after surprise assaulted me, emotions poured through me, from me. Some of the scenes so poignant, it felt as though my I'd melt into a puddle. By the time I got to the end of the book, I was drenched in agonising spasms from all the clenching of ALL my organs! My word! My fear for Natisse and Kullen, not to mention for Umbria and Golgoth, was so palpable, I could barely contain my involuntary motions. Each time they appear to get an upper hand and I'm cheering them big time, another disaster befalls them, another dire situation and another... keeping all my senses on high alert. But those final chapters did me in, between my horror and yells of "NO!" I could NOT believe what had transpired, by WHOM it has transpired! Shock? Heck! You have no idea! What the authors have created is no mean feat, the way they duped me is astounding, my jaw couldn't have dropped lower if I'd been punched in the mouth! Unbelievable, phenomenal storytelling at it's best!
So the Crimson Fang and Kullen need to discover the why and the where of these nobles and not kill each other in the process, fortify the city, weed out traitors, all in two days! Tough ask! And as if they don't have enough on their plate, there's also the fact that the shadowstone is weakening and that might be the bigger danger. With the danger hitting them from all sides, the action was fast and furious. The authors did a brilliant job of turning up the heat, until I was smoldering from the tension. The dangers they face go beyond the norm, not only from the treacherous nobles but with witchcraft and shamanism included in the mix, it's a wonder any of them survive. Many don't.... heartbreakingly so. Kullen and Natisse give it all they've got, never letting up for one second, fighting even though it looks like a lost cause. Natisse's resilience matches Kullen's perfectly, everything she is, everything she does, aligns to perfection. Kullen sums up Natisse perfectly with these thoughts "she left chaos and turmoil aplenty in her wake, but if nothing else, she certainly made his existence more interesting since the waves of their first meeting clashed" That's exactly how I feel about Natisse and Kullen both, characters with so many nuances, every one as interesting as the next.
Surprise after surprise assaulted me, emotions poured through me, from me. Some of the scenes so poignant, it felt as though my I'd melt into a puddle. By the time I got to the end of the book, I was drenched in agonising spasms from all the clenching of ALL my organs! My word! My fear for Natisse and Kullen, not to mention for Umbria and Golgoth, was so palpable, I could barely contain my involuntary motions. Each time they appear to get an upper hand and I'm cheering them big time, another disaster befalls them, another dire situation and another... keeping all my senses on high alert. But those final chapters did me in, between my horror and yells of "NO!" I could NOT believe what had transpired, by WHOM it has transpired! Shock? Heck! You have no idea! What the authors have created is no mean feat, the way they duped me is astounding, my jaw couldn't have dropped lower if I'd been punched in the mouth! Unbelievable, phenomenal storytelling at it's best!
October 7, 2023
30/09/23
Dying…I’m utterly dying of curiosity to know who the hell is Red Claw!!!! Fucking hell im still trying to catch my breath after that damn cliffhanger!!! Kullen took Natisse to his room in the palace for clean up and because they needed some clothes he gave her a dress…the thing is she asked why he had a dress in his room and guess what? Sometimes the Black Talon needs to enter places that only woman are allowed…FUCKING HELL HAHAHAHA I’m laughing so hard right now thinking about Kullen in a dress and with makeup hahahaha.
Holly shit!!!! That plot twist? I never in a million years could have guessed…damn the more sweet character is in true… a damn powerful mage ages ago …. To say the truth she’s the high priestess of a people that dealer heavily in blood magic. Dammmmnnnn!!!!! The attack on the city is no joke!!! And Natisse burning ships on Golgoth??? That is EPIC!!! I’m loving the mystery and the action, so many questions are being answered but I still have no guess who the fuck is Red Claw hahahaha.
It’s in the final ruthless battle and damn…so much happened in almost three days… if I’m breathless only by listening to their struggles I can even start to imagine how spend is Kullen and Natisse, worse yet is that Umbris and Golgoth can’t help them…fucking hell that damn magic can hurt damn bad the dragons…. Kullen and Natisse standing side by side while facing the enemy fearless…too many even for them ? That’s my couple goals and they didn’t even kissed yet hahahahaha yeah tell me about a slow burn….
Woahhhh I’m getting goosebumps!!!! Epic…just…EPIC. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH THEY KISSED!!!!!! AAAAAAAAH!!!! Fucking hell Natisse does know how to take the reins hahahaha just before battle in front of everyone *fans myself* theirs chemistry is no joke. She was making fun of Zade because he was flirting with the big woman and now? Natisse kisses Kullen abruptly? Zade’s booming laughter was deserved hahahaha.
OH MY GOD… OH MY GOD… I can’t believe it… I just can’t…it’s not possible…. The Red Claw is…. Holly shit no way in the seven circles of hell I could have guessed…. NOOOOOO I don’t accept it…Kullen!!!! No no no no no no I can’t believe….. WHERE IS THE NEXT BOOK???? You can’t end a book like this…. How I’ll continue with my life without ANSWERS?!?!?!? I hate cliffhangers with all my being and I swear I thought this series were complete… at least on audible, I’m in hell I can’t read but I can listen and… I’ll die…. What happened with Kullen??? Is he okay? He better be okay if not I’ll be pissed beyond the imaginable, what about the dome around the city?… the betrayal…
Dying…I’m utterly dying of curiosity to know who the hell is Red Claw!!!! Fucking hell im still trying to catch my breath after that damn cliffhanger!!! Kullen took Natisse to his room in the palace for clean up and because they needed some clothes he gave her a dress…the thing is she asked why he had a dress in his room and guess what? Sometimes the Black Talon needs to enter places that only woman are allowed…FUCKING HELL HAHAHAHA I’m laughing so hard right now thinking about Kullen in a dress and with makeup hahahaha.
Holly shit!!!! That plot twist? I never in a million years could have guessed…damn the more sweet character is in true… a damn powerful mage ages ago …. To say the truth she’s the high priestess of a people that dealer heavily in blood magic. Dammmmnnnn!!!!! The attack on the city is no joke!!! And Natisse burning ships on Golgoth??? That is EPIC!!! I’m loving the mystery and the action, so many questions are being answered but I still have no guess who the fuck is Red Claw hahahaha.
It’s in the final ruthless battle and damn…so much happened in almost three days… if I’m breathless only by listening to their struggles I can even start to imagine how spend is Kullen and Natisse, worse yet is that Umbris and Golgoth can’t help them…fucking hell that damn magic can hurt damn bad the dragons…. Kullen and Natisse standing side by side while facing the enemy fearless…too many even for them ? That’s my couple goals and they didn’t even kissed yet hahahahaha yeah tell me about a slow burn….
Woahhhh I’m getting goosebumps!!!! Epic…just…EPIC. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH THEY KISSED!!!!!! AAAAAAAAH!!!! Fucking hell Natisse does know how to take the reins hahahaha just before battle in front of everyone *fans myself* theirs chemistry is no joke. She was making fun of Zade because he was flirting with the big woman and now? Natisse kisses Kullen abruptly? Zade’s booming laughter was deserved hahahaha.
OH MY GOD… OH MY GOD… I can’t believe it… I just can’t…it’s not possible…. The Red Claw is…. Holly shit no way in the seven circles of hell I could have guessed…. NOOOOOO I don’t accept it…Kullen!!!! No no no no no no I can’t believe….. WHERE IS THE NEXT BOOK???? You can’t end a book like this…. How I’ll continue with my life without ANSWERS?!?!?!? I hate cliffhangers with all my being and I swear I thought this series were complete… at least on audible, I’m in hell I can’t read but I can listen and… I’ll die…. What happened with Kullen??? Is he okay? He better be okay if not I’ll be pissed beyond the imaginable, what about the dome around the city?… the betrayal…
July 26, 2023
A roller coaster of fantasy goodness
Ezrasils hairy ass cheeks, Andy Peloquin and Jaime Castle. What in the blood clan are you's trying to do me with that ending? My nerves are shredded after leaving me with that cliffhanger.
Silver Spines is the third book in the Dragonblood Assassins series by co-writers Jaime Castle and Andy Peloquin, and what a bloody brilliant book this was. Blood soaked, action-packed, and full of twists and turns, and yes, there are many more big ass dragons tearing shit up (literally)
This was the best book of the series so far, and don't get me wrong, the first two were excellent. This one just hit me harder. The growing relationship between the two main protagonists, Kullen and Natisse, just gets better, and my journey with them has been amazing.
There are lots of new characters after being introduced called Tatterwolves. They add some good humour to a very grim world where death is only around the corner. I think these may be a new fan favourite because they are definitely mine.
In Silver Spines, war has come to Dimvein, creeping throughout Dimveins
underground tunnels, the Empire’s ancient foes have come to destroy, bringing with them threats new and old. The Blood Clan pirates and the savage Hudar Horde cavalry are joined by the magic of the Vandil, long believed lost to the ages.
With Blackwater Bay surrounded by thousands of ships of their enemies. Things are looking very grim and hopeless.
To survive, the citizens of Dimvein, the Crimson Fang, the Orkenwatch of
Tuskthorne Keep, the tatterwolves, and Embers-folk must come together if they have any chance of survival.
Damn what a ride, It’s a race to the end, a blade slashin, fire raging roller coaster of read that is all consuming in that you can not put it down. I very highly recommend.
Ezrasils hairy ass cheeks, Andy Peloquin and Jaime Castle. What in the blood clan are you's trying to do me with that ending? My nerves are shredded after leaving me with that cliffhanger.
Silver Spines is the third book in the Dragonblood Assassins series by co-writers Jaime Castle and Andy Peloquin, and what a bloody brilliant book this was. Blood soaked, action-packed, and full of twists and turns, and yes, there are many more big ass dragons tearing shit up (literally)
This was the best book of the series so far, and don't get me wrong, the first two were excellent. This one just hit me harder. The growing relationship between the two main protagonists, Kullen and Natisse, just gets better, and my journey with them has been amazing.
There are lots of new characters after being introduced called Tatterwolves. They add some good humour to a very grim world where death is only around the corner. I think these may be a new fan favourite because they are definitely mine.
In Silver Spines, war has come to Dimvein, creeping throughout Dimveins
underground tunnels, the Empire’s ancient foes have come to destroy, bringing with them threats new and old. The Blood Clan pirates and the savage Hudar Horde cavalry are joined by the magic of the Vandil, long believed lost to the ages.
With Blackwater Bay surrounded by thousands of ships of their enemies. Things are looking very grim and hopeless.
To survive, the citizens of Dimvein, the Crimson Fang, the Orkenwatch of
Tuskthorne Keep, the tatterwolves, and Embers-folk must come together if they have any chance of survival.
Damn what a ride, It’s a race to the end, a blade slashin, fire raging roller coaster of read that is all consuming in that you can not put it down. I very highly recommend.
April 21, 2024
Uhm so... that happened..
Brothers in arms the ending was a shank and a twist. I am unsure how to feel, I have some negative opinions regarding one revelation there are also some other things in the book that slightly grated on me
The characters have continued to grow on me, Kullen is a great character and his cool assassin antics are insanely satisfying. We see both him and Natisse grow as characters and become far more than they original were. I believe that the Authors have succeeded in creating characters that seem real, with emotions, feelings, ideals and greater wants and goals. I have greatly enjoyed reading the world in this series, the dragons are incredible cool as well.
My only complaint is that there have been several almost ridiculous saves for characters or moments where something occurs and you can't sense where that buildup or revelation had foundations or was almost made up for in that moment.
The book was full of hype and great moments. Micheal Kramer is great, indifferent amount Kate Reading but I keep hearing the wheel of time when she talks lol.
4*
Brothers in arms the ending was a shank and a twist. I am unsure how to feel, I have some negative opinions regarding one revelation there are also some other things in the book that slightly grated on me
The characters have continued to grow on me, Kullen is a great character and his cool assassin antics are insanely satisfying. We see both him and Natisse grow as characters and become far more than they original were. I believe that the Authors have succeeded in creating characters that seem real, with emotions, feelings, ideals and greater wants and goals. I have greatly enjoyed reading the world in this series, the dragons are incredible cool as well.
My only complaint is that there have been several almost ridiculous saves for characters or moments where something occurs and you can't sense where that buildup or revelation had foundations or was almost made up for in that moment.
The book was full of hype and great moments. Micheal Kramer is great, indifferent amount Kate Reading but I keep hearing the wheel of time when she talks lol.
4*
July 21, 2023
The series is getting better and better but the cliffhanger at the end...
I really enjoy when the world is well build and enemies actually smart. Love how complex attack on the empire was enjoyed when author revealed each layer of plans of the enemy and made them in way that the reader could guess what would come next.
I really enjoy when the world is well build and enemies actually smart. Love how complex attack on the empire was enjoyed when author revealed each layer of plans of the enemy and made them in way that the reader could guess what would come next.
September 19, 2024
Ok, so this book is absolutely action packed! We pick where the last book left off with finding out that they have maybe 2 days before the enemies arrive in Dimvein. And from there on, I can’t believe the amount of preparing and killing that goes on in those 2 days! And add into that more secrets that will make you go “WTH”. I mean, the major secret revealed partway through was like walking into a glass door you didn’t see!
With Natisse and Kullen working together again, although not always in the same place, the empire and the Crimson Fang are trying to prepare for an all out war where the enemy already has a leg up. Natisse is still working to get past the fact that Uncle Ronan hasn’t told her who he really is and trying to work together despite that fact. She’s still being a petulant child for a good part of the book, but luckily she finally takes her head out of her rear by the end of it. Kullen is struggling to get the rest he needs, always trying to save the day at a high cost to himself.
We finally get answers to questions about why Magister Branth wanted the refuge, why Thanagar’s dome only extends as far as it does, and where certain loyalties lie. But the ending! Oh the ending! This is an absolute cliff hanger, so I suggest having the time to start the next book right away before you get into this one because there is no way you can just stop after this book ends!
With Natisse and Kullen working together again, although not always in the same place, the empire and the Crimson Fang are trying to prepare for an all out war where the enemy already has a leg up. Natisse is still working to get past the fact that Uncle Ronan hasn’t told her who he really is and trying to work together despite that fact. She’s still being a petulant child for a good part of the book, but luckily she finally takes her head out of her rear by the end of it. Kullen is struggling to get the rest he needs, always trying to save the day at a high cost to himself.
We finally get answers to questions about why Magister Branth wanted the refuge, why Thanagar’s dome only extends as far as it does, and where certain loyalties lie. But the ending! Oh the ending! This is an absolute cliff hanger, so I suggest having the time to start the next book right away before you get into this one because there is no way you can just stop after this book ends!
July 15, 2023
The last chapter alone is worth the five stars.
What a ride … this whole book felt so much like the end of a trilogy; building, building, building … and then *mind blown.* This book sees our groups break up in order to best salvation of the city. This is the point in a story where things generally slow down a bit and have that awful doldrums phase. Not this one ... keeping track of who’s where almost becomes a game. There’s a whole lot of zigging and zagging, campaigning and mayhem. Ha! There’s even a couple of surprising kisses
This entire story is “how we got from here to there.”
I was going to take exception with the authors for the needless death on a certain character … but in the end, it was justified, honoured and avenged. What could have been a misstep was a poignant moment.
Purely conjecture on my part, but I’m reserving judgment on two characters at the centre of the power plays, the first is the emperor who seems to be too wise to be this wilfully stupid; the second, his seneschal who is too tricksy for anyone’s good. There’s too much going on for one or both of them not to be involved. Although, let me repeat lest you think me spoilerizing … it’s only my thinking. There’s a lot happening between the lines.
It is of some comfort that I’ll be able to join up with this lot of characters again in the future. Thanks Andy and Jaime. Well done. /salute
What a ride … this whole book felt so much like the end of a trilogy; building, building, building … and then *mind blown.* This book sees our groups break up in order to best salvation of the city. This is the point in a story where things generally slow down a bit and have that awful doldrums phase. Not this one ... keeping track of who’s where almost becomes a game. There’s a whole lot of zigging and zagging, campaigning and mayhem. Ha! There’s even a couple of surprising kisses
This entire story is “how we got from here to there.”
I was going to take exception with the authors for the needless death on a certain character … but in the end, it was justified, honoured and avenged. What could have been a misstep was a poignant moment.
Purely conjecture on my part, but I’m reserving judgment on two characters at the centre of the power plays, the first is the emperor who seems to be too wise to be this wilfully stupid; the second, his seneschal who is too tricksy for anyone’s good. There’s too much going on for one or both of them not to be involved. Although, let me repeat lest you think me spoilerizing … it’s only my thinking. There’s a lot happening between the lines.
It is of some comfort that I’ll be able to join up with this lot of characters again in the future. Thanks Andy and Jaime. Well done. /salute
July 24, 2023
I don't know why I had it in my mind that this was going to be the last book in the series but it is
not
and there is a
MAJOR CLIFFHANGER
. Like... excuse me?! I need the next book ASAP.
If you like action-packed high fantasy, dragons, assasins, and political intrigue, this is definitely the book/series for you, but it is a commitment as each book is 700+ pages long.
Natisse is not my favorite FMC but I'm finally coming around to her due to this book. Having said that, I feel like Kullen should have also had equal depth explanation of his magic since Natisse had such a spotlight in this book. Also it was a bit slow in a few places.. But I definitely recommend.
If you like action-packed high fantasy, dragons, assasins, and political intrigue, this is definitely the book/series for you, but it is a commitment as each book is 700+ pages long.
Natisse is not my favorite FMC but I'm finally coming around to her due to this book. Having said that, I feel like Kullen should have also had equal depth explanation of his magic since Natisse had such a spotlight in this book. Also it was a bit slow in a few places.. But I definitely recommend.
July 11, 2023
This is an amazing collaborative effort between two exceedingly good authors. I love how their writing combines.
Natisse, Kullen, Jaylen… oh Jaylen
The way Natisse and Kullen interact is wonderful – the way they’re constantly one upping how the other feels about them.
There are characters in this book (this series) ’ that I want to know what happens to them. Characters whose interactions are realistic and meaningful. The action careens from one bit to the next and the storytelling stakes get higher each book.
I mean, I am still shaking my head over
Natisse, Kullen, Jaylen… oh Jaylen
The way Natisse and Kullen interact is wonderful – the way they’re constantly one upping how the other feels about them.
There are characters in this book (this series) ’ that I want to know what happens to them. Characters whose interactions are realistic and meaningful. The action careens from one bit to the next and the storytelling stakes get higher each book.
I mean, I am still shaking my head over
July 28, 2023
When I reached the end of this book, I had to wait a few days before writing a review so I could get over the urge to strangle (as if I could reach that high) the authors. This book follows Black Talon and Red Claw. I am eagerly awaiting Golden Flames, the 4th book in this series.
I found the storylines in this book quite character driven as Natisse and Kullen discover a lot of secrets, including each other's. Many of the enigmatic minor characters expose their secrets as well as they prepare for war. All the characters, including the minor ones, are so well written that I felt I knew them. I cried more than once as some of them died.
No spoilers, but in the end, many of the storylines of this book are tied up nicely in the penultimate chapter and the end throws out something shocking that had me checking to see if Golden Flames was available for preorder yet. No, it wasn't. I am stalking the authors so I can snatch it as soon as it's out.
I cannot recommend this book series strongly enough. Get it. Read it. That is all.
I found the storylines in this book quite character driven as Natisse and Kullen discover a lot of secrets, including each other's. Many of the enigmatic minor characters expose their secrets as well as they prepare for war. All the characters, including the minor ones, are so well written that I felt I knew them. I cried more than once as some of them died.
No spoilers, but in the end, many of the storylines of this book are tied up nicely in the penultimate chapter and the end throws out something shocking that had me checking to see if Golden Flames was available for preorder yet. No, it wasn't. I am stalking the authors so I can snatch it as soon as it's out.
I cannot recommend this book series strongly enough. Get it. Read it. That is all.
August 2, 2023
Ohhhh man Andy Peloquin and Jamie Castle are both mean ol' poopyheads. You left us hanging on the edge of the cliff... with that 180 twist in the storyline. And book 4 isn't out yet 😭! What's a gurl to do? Do you know how much I need book 4?!? Well 'nuf said.
Silver Spines was a great book, maybe even better than the first two books or as good as them. With Kullan and Natisse now on the same side they dive into their job of saving the capital city, the people living there and the Kingdom. With the need of stopping the invasionary army. I also loved the addition of the Tatterwolves, and giving us much more insight to Uncle Rowan past.
Michael Kramer and Kate Reading again play their roles perfectly as they narrate this story.
So yeah grab this action-packed audiobook as it's currently available for free. That is if you have an Amazon plus account.
Silver Spines was a great book, maybe even better than the first two books or as good as them. With Kullan and Natisse now on the same side they dive into their job of saving the capital city, the people living there and the Kingdom. With the need of stopping the invasionary army. I also loved the addition of the Tatterwolves, and giving us much more insight to Uncle Rowan past.
Michael Kramer and Kate Reading again play their roles perfectly as they narrate this story.
So yeah grab this action-packed audiobook as it's currently available for free. That is if you have an Amazon plus account.
July 3, 2024
The Empire of Dimvein is being attacked by their enemies combined forces and traitors within the Empire. Kullen and Natisse must again work together in finding missing dragonblood vials so the vials and the dragons connected with them do not end up in the wrong hands.
Kullen is also tasked by the emperor to locate four missing aristocrats with bonded dragons. While Natisse works with the Crimson Fang to save the lower class citizens of the Embers and ensure defenses are stronger against attack from their enemies.
Dragons, magic and betrayal are rampant throughout the story, with danger all around and battling between various factions at every turn. Who is the person behind the name Red Claw that seems to be pulling strings against the Empire?
I love this series and book three is no exception! Full of action from start to finish with an unexpected betrayal at the end.
Kullen is also tasked by the emperor to locate four missing aristocrats with bonded dragons. While Natisse works with the Crimson Fang to save the lower class citizens of the Embers and ensure defenses are stronger against attack from their enemies.
Dragons, magic and betrayal are rampant throughout the story, with danger all around and battling between various factions at every turn. Who is the person behind the name Red Claw that seems to be pulling strings against the Empire?
I love this series and book three is no exception! Full of action from start to finish with an unexpected betrayal at the end.
December 2, 2025
This one was probably better balanced than the 1st two between action and transition/character development scenes, but overall it was more of the same stuff as the first two books - more dragon action, more hand-to-hand fighting. More secondary character deaths; a few new characters. The Vandill (sp?) magic gets more fleshed out, and the blood horde... kind of does? It might have gone up to 4 stars for me, but of course the penultimate book had to end on a cliffhanger, designed to force you to pick up the next one. Sure, it's good as cliffhangers go, but I just hate that mechanic. Makes me feel very manipulated as a reader. So - 3 stars for that. (Also the plot twist that creates the cliffhanger is actually foreshadowed, IMO, in the very beginning of the series. It's subtle foreshadowing, and the authors make you second-guess your instincts through Book 2, but... it's there.)
October 6, 2023
I like the book. Too much exposition of what the characters are thinking at times disrupts the flow. Would like to see a map of this world - it might be in the print version as I have listened to the Audible versions.
Some spoilers below.
Can't help but think this empire must have the worst spies / intelligence network ever. The books have mentioned 3 other major countries / groups of people in this world plus one old enemy vanquished and destroyed long ago. So all four somehow manage a sneak attack at the time? Also seems farfetched to me that with the nobility controlling the dragons of this world that none of them have ever turned on the empire and gotten greedy before now - selling dragon power to the highest bidder.
Some spoilers below.
Can't help but think this empire must have the worst spies / intelligence network ever. The books have mentioned 3 other major countries / groups of people in this world plus one old enemy vanquished and destroyed long ago. So all four somehow manage a sneak attack at the time? Also seems farfetched to me that with the nobility controlling the dragons of this world that none of them have ever turned on the empire and gotten greedy before now - selling dragon power to the highest bidder.
August 23, 2024
The previous two books were intense, but this--this is something else. Silver Spines turns epic at the grandest of scales. Dimvein is under attack and our embattled heroes are floundering. The pace of this book is inexorable. I couldn't put it down. Additionally, the twist at the end was so superb, I never saw it coming. The authors perfectly placed all the hints, but so subtly they didn't coalesce for me until the perfect moment. Massive epiphany, even if I don't know why the true Machiavellian machinator did everything and planned all. That still escapes me, but I'm sure we'll get an answer in the next book.
The stakes are sky high and there's no way I'm going to be able to put this series down now. Gotta dash!
The stakes are sky high and there's no way I'm going to be able to put this series down now. Gotta dash!
July 26, 2023
Dimvein has been betrayed from the inside. Now the Blood clan pirates, the Hudar Horde cavalry, and the Vandil priestesses are coming to destroy the empire.
Kullen is sent to find the four missing Magisters with dragon blood bonds with help from some of the Crimson Fang.
Natisse is with her "uncle" the General and the rest of the Crimson Fang and they are out to check the city's defenses with some of the General's old regime which he now calls The Tatterwolfs. Nonstop action with a few twists on the way. The Tatterwolfs were terrific. This story just keeps getting better even with the cliffhanger ending.
Kullen is sent to find the four missing Magisters with dragon blood bonds with help from some of the Crimson Fang.
Natisse is with her "uncle" the General and the rest of the Crimson Fang and they are out to check the city's defenses with some of the General's old regime which he now calls The Tatterwolfs. Nonstop action with a few twists on the way. The Tatterwolfs were terrific. This story just keeps getting better even with the cliffhanger ending.
January 27, 2024
When news is received that an armada is on the way to vanguish Dimvein midst the Orcan debacle, bedlam ensued. Added is the unwelcome news that there are three enemies having joined forces, including one long thought to have been extinct.
What follows is almost chaos as preparations is made to withstand an assault two days later.
Two days later?
Not so. Not with an enemy having planned this war for a long period now.
And this starts another day of almost dieting for me as I was more interested in reading this tome of over six hundred pages than preparing and eating a proper meal., following with interest all the twists in Silver Spines. Other readers take note.
Enjoy.
What follows is almost chaos as preparations is made to withstand an assault two days later.
Two days later?
Not so. Not with an enemy having planned this war for a long period now.
And this starts another day of almost dieting for me as I was more interested in reading this tome of over six hundred pages than preparing and eating a proper meal., following with interest all the twists in Silver Spines. Other readers take note.
Enjoy.
July 21, 2023
This book was so amazing. I loved the first and second books and this one did not disappoint. I love Kullen and Natisse. I love the worldbuilding of this book and the magic system is so awesome. All of the characters are well-developed and very interesting. I can not tell you how much I loved this book. . This was an amazing book and I would like to thank the authors for such an amazing book and world. highly recommend this book.
July 16, 2023
Just breathless
Goodness gracious! He’s done it again! Brought us gasping for breath, feeling as if we have run and fought throughout Dimvein. Wondering what is going on with Prince Jaylen, will Kullen survive. How will the people defend their city? Another great series from AP with his co-writer Jaime Castle. I am in awe of their talent. But now we have to wait for the conclusion 🙀🥺
Goodness gracious! He’s done it again! Brought us gasping for breath, feeling as if we have run and fought throughout Dimvein. Wondering what is going on with Prince Jaylen, will Kullen survive. How will the people defend their city? Another great series from AP with his co-writer Jaime Castle. I am in awe of their talent. But now we have to wait for the conclusion 🙀🥺
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