Liquid Fire

Skindancer #3

by Anthony Francis

Magical tattoo artist Dakota Frost is back—fighting a fire that may burn down the world.

For millennia, ancient factions of wizards have closely guarded the secrets of liquid fire—distilled from the blood of dragons and the magical key to unbelievably powerful spells.

Now, Dakota’s flirtation with a fireweaver while visiting San Francisco engulfs her in a magical feud. Forced to defend herself with her masterwork, a powerful dragon tattoo, Dakota becomes the target of superstitious magicians who believe she’s summoned the spirit of a dragon . . . the first step in an incredibly dangerous spell that could create more liquid fire.

Soon, Dakota finds herself caught in a magical battle between ageless wizards desperate to seize the rapidly dwindling supply of liquid fire and fireweaver terrorists who’ll stop at nothing to keep every last drop of it for themselves.

Even if that means killing Dakota.

The race is on to find the truth about liquid fire, the secret behind Dakota’s magic tattoos, and the message hidden in the fireweaver’s secret codes—before the world goes up in flames.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Magic, Paranormal, Vampires, Romance, Dragons

Paperback

First published May 22, 2015

About the author

Dr. Anthony G. Francis, Jr. is a science fiction writer and computer scientist who started writing urban fantasy because he likes it. The Dakota Frost series combines Anthony's love of hard science, fantastic magic, alternative culture, and strong, feisty women.

Even though the siren call of computing eventually pulled him out to the San Francisco Bay Area, he still chose to set the Dakota Frost series in Atlanta, Georgia, where he spent nearly half his life and which he has learned to love like no other place on Earth.

When not making computers smarter or writing science fiction and fantasy, Anthony blogs about his life, his writing and his research at The Library of Dresan. He also writes an occasionally updated webcomic, f@nu fiku. He currently lives in San Jose with his wife and cats.

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its been awhile since the last novel in the Skindancer series, but I found myself quickly embroiled back into Dakota's world.

Dakota finds herself hip deep in a magical feud with her magical dragon tattoo becoming the center of a on going battle that might cost her her life.

Dakota is a delightfully strong, large and in your face woman that is completely ok with herself. It is not often you find a character that seems fully developed, but she really radiates this vibe that she knows her own mind.amazo

Liquid Fire immerses the reader into a fantastically vivid and detailed world of myth, magic and science. Francis just has a way of pulling the reader in and keeping us there to stay.

I received this ARC copy of Liquid Fire from Bell Bridge Books in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 22, 2015.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before, and will doubtless say it again: Anthony Francis writes the best urban fiction this side of Charles de Lint.

In this, the third of the Dakota Frost books, we find the magical tattooist heroine recovering from both the physical and spiritual wounds she incurred in Blood Rock. She's taking her daughter, Cinnamon, to San Francisco to accept a math award ... and meets fire spinner Jewel Grace on the plane. Dakota opens her heart and mind to love again ... only to find herself embroiled in magical battles as other fire spinners start attacking Jewel to keep her from raising a dragon spirit.

And why does she want this dragon spirit? To obtain the titular liquid fire.

This time out, Francis takes us through the San Francisco Bay Area, to locations real, defunct (I couldn't help but miss the Palo Alto Borders store when I read his description of Dakota's first visit), and/or imagined. He brings us into the heads and hearts of his characters, making them believable and entertaining.

There is some F/F romance here, but no graphic descriptions of lovemaking.

I cannot recommend this series highly enough.

[melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

So, after struggling to get through this for 3 weeks. I'm tapping out at 55% read and Chapter 36.

This is just really confusing/convoluted and, well, I simply don't care about any of the storyline.

*Digital review copy provided by NetGalley and the publisher.

[Mara · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 1/2

It was one hell of a confusing read, full to the brim of magical/physical/scientific explanations. And never ending descriptions of dance/martial arts/you name it.

I remember really liking Dakota in the previous books, but I didn't particularly like this Dakota. I honestly don't know if it's me or the writing, but I couldn't relate to her at all. She is bisexual, but here she's presented as a butch lesbian and I read it as male. Not a woman.

I remember her and her daughter plus some of the plot of book 2, but nothing on the minor characters. The book gave you some hints about the past, but after 5 years since book 2 came out, there's no connection. And there was nothing here that screamed depth. Characters, good or evil, are totally shallow.

What you get is: instalust, and the even worse insta love that made the ending even more unbelievable to me.It was cold, unmoving. If you don't believe in a relationship, there's no reaction when the truth is revealed.

There was betrayal, a near Armageddon, and a lot more. But honestly I couldn't care less. And I care even less for the future.

Sayonara Dakota. I don't think we'll meet again.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

The characters of Dakota and Cinnamon are more comfortable with each other and their roles as parent and child. Generally speaking, the characters are interesting and the major players are well developed. Plotwise, there are ups and downs the way there should be, high action interspersed with downtime. There is a place in the middle of the book where it almost seems like it could have been broken into two books, but it works as a whole. I got a little bogged down in the science of how things work and found myself skimming after a while. These parts will interest you especially if you have an interest in codes and cryptography. I enjoyed the parts that spoke to the mythology/history of things. And being from Atlanta,

Overall, the book is well written and deserves its 4 star status.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Pamela · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read book one, and two of this series, and adored them. This one not so much. perhaps it it I'd the time frames behind the series, or her big launch into the political them of politics, and all things magic. Her adored daughter seemed dragged around, and during a nasty fire fight,she led her mom to safety. She didn't even know where her daughter was .They argued so much over rights, and strategies, and who gets to do what, that I wanted to put the book down. I did that several times. I had to push to get through, and if book four is about her legislating roles, then I'm done. The Dragon egg, which I was really excited about, turned into another debate , which was kill it, enslave it, teach it, no kill it.. I was glad it ended better. There was very little,action,and lots of talk compared to his first two books.

[Imjussayin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Liquid Fire: Skin Dancer 3
Chronological order recommended.
2.5 🌟

In A Nutshell: Liquid Fire is a magical battle with many twists and turns. Perhaps too many. Dakota must again confront the magical graffiti that wreaked havoc in book two. There are new beings and new magics. I couldn't wait to return to Edgeworld. I was glad that I did but was made to feel a little stupid on the journey.

The Plot: Dakota finds that she has to face the magical graffiti head on. But it is not what it appears, and the war takes Dakota to dark and lonely places.

The Protagonist(s):Dakota is a tattoo artist with a difference. It is not her death-hawk, 6' stature, background in chemistry or living on the edge. No, it's that she is a magical tattooist, with magic tats of her own. Our bi-sexual heroine despite appearance is warm, loves deeply and cares about those who live on the edges of society.

Dakota takes the reader on a journey from her tattoo shop in Atlanta, and Edgeworld to San Francisco. Cinnamon, who now has genius status, is picking up an award for maths in San Fran. And we meet new types of magic and magical folks; some are darn right scary; Fae, Fire spinners gods, and ninjas to name a few.

So, the supporting cast is impressive. I particularly like the relationship between the professor who is a wizard and his secretary. As for the regulars, Dakota has found a new love, Jewel Grace who is a whole lot of trouble. As much as it was good that Dakota returns to a same-sex relationship, it had all the tropes of a heterosexual relationship. And I often felt myself relating to Dakota as a man, especially in the romantic scenes. I found Dakota less appealing this time around. And even Cinnamon seems less vibrant.

I also think that perhaps the author was too technical. The blend of science, religion, magic and martial arts became overbearing and dull. I was tempted to edit the book myself. As a reader of fantasy (i.e., made up things and places) I don't want to be convinced in great detail of its reality. It's fantasy! And way too much time was spent doing that.

Nonetheless, aspects of this story are clever. And I like that it takes on board folklore from other cultures. The author managed to link book three to book one, which was cool and it brings back a significant character - no spoilers here. Some plotlines will hold your attention, and at points, the book reads like a thriller.


Skin Dancer is a novel idea, and a good urban fantasy read. If you like Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock or Soulwood series, this might be your next home.

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Book Rating
Sexual Content: 18
Language: 18
Violent: 16
Would I read the next one or reread ?: Yes

My rating system (* = star)
0* Could not finish this book (waste of time)
1*Finished the book but didn't like it not fulfilled
2* Finished the book it was okay.
3* A good read worth your time.
4* An excellent read often with a novel concept or unusual plot.
5* A magnificent read. A prominent example of the genre.

[shei.da.turnip · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing!!! I admit that I haven't read the first 2 books (planning to rectify that soon) but found that everything was still very understandable. The author really did his research well; love the system of magic that he's created in Skindancer. The romance was great; and I thought that plot twist (WHAT A TWIST) was really well done. I only wish that there had been more room to breathe in between scenes. It always felt like we were hopping from one thing to another with no moments to take a breather. Looking forward to the sequel!!!

[K Hawvermale · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, but not as much as the first two. I thought this plot line was confusing and rushed. It didn't fit well with the other two and the change in attitude toward Dakota and her old mentor and between Dakota and his current apprentice were abrupt to say the least. I hope things smooth out in the next one -- whenever it is published.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

just as good as the others

really enjoyed this one, the whole series is great!! be so cool to have tattoos like hers, hope there is more to this series, and hope she puts a dragon back on her!

[Kranna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I very much like this book it is not like any other. It sets a world for you and people you believe in.

[Trina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Like this series, but had a hard time getting though this one.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this series. Dakota is really starting to settle into herself. The story has an ending which is good because i don't think the sequel was published. Still I recommend this.

[Crittermom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liquid Fire is an impressive addition to the Skindancer series.

Anthony Francis has created a world where magic not only exists, but has a scientific foundation. In the Skindancer novels, Anthony Francis deftly blends science and mysticism to create a world where magic not only exists but is believable. As a reader, I was fascinated not only by the different forms of magic and their uses, but also by the explanations presented. It is easy to suspend disbelief when a world is so richly detailed.

Francis's attention to detail extends to his characters, both main and supporting. Dakota Frost is a character who stands out, not only because she is 6'2, has a mohawk and is covered in tattoos. Her principles and beliefs flavor her actions. Unlike many leads in urban fantasy novels, she is emotionally mature. She divides her life between her tattoo shop, the Magical Security Council which she has created, and her adopted daughter Cinnamon, a werekin prodigy with tourettes. While she is an accomplished martial artist and skindancer, Dakota prefers to resolve situations with diplomacy rather than violence. Francis differentiates characters by using detail, not simply appearance. Personalities matter, and even supporting characters have unique backgrounds and motivations.

There are many wonderful action sequences within Liquid Fire. It is here that Anthony Francis's writing shines the most.

While Liquid Fire is the third Skindancer novel, it is accessible to newcomers to the series and is a magnificent stand-alone novel. Readers may prefer to read the novels in order, starting with Frost Moon and Blood Rock.

Liquid Fire is a not-to-be-missed urban fantasy novel. This fantastic continuation of the Skindancer series is certain to excite fans both old and new.

I received a copy of Liquid Fire from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.

--Crittermom

[Hailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I saw the cover of this book and had to read it. Something about a Woman with a Mohawk and a skull caught my eye. Then I opened the book and found that the characters were as eccentric as the cover. I got to meet Dakota Frost, skindancer, tattoo artist and mother. Her adopted daughter Cinnamon is a charming teenager, who has her struggles, homework, Tourette's, math genius, dyslexia, and a tail. As I read I find myself liking Dakota for her relationship with her daughter. You can feel how much she loves her daughter, and how hard she is trying to do what's best for her, while balancing being a part of edgeworld. She deals with vampires, wizards, fae, werekin, gods, firespinners, skindancers, ninjas... Interested yet? How the heck can Dakota deal with all those factions, and then there is this whole liquid fire, possible new girlfriend, kidnapping, eternal life, tattooing... Did I miss anything? Oh yes I did, and that's why I kept reading. My biggest regret is starting this book not realizing it is the 3rd in a series. The author did a great job making sure I wasn't lost if I hadn't read the previous books, but I would know so much more. I need more. Actually I am off to get the other previous books. Dakota's story is just starting and expanding. I will recommend you give this book a chance. It was entertaining, and not just the same old story. There are factions that I need to see again. So I hope you enjoy it. I know I did.

[Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first part of this one had me smiling so much. I loved how Dakota and Cinnamon interacted. I think part of what charmed me is how they are working on what their relationship should be, bumps and all. I loved how Dakota would suddenly become a raging mama bear when Cinnamon was threatened or there was some perceived threat. I especially liked when Dakota put a professor in his place for how Cinnamon was treated.

The trip to San Francisco was interesting. It seemed like what could go wrong did. I was surprised by how hostile people were to Dakota when she had talked to all parties before going out. It was nice to see how everyone underestimated Dakota and her group, but win allies along the way. I found it funny how Dakota managed to find someone to flirt with and how that seemed to change the trip for her. At first I liked these two together, but as things went on there seemed something off.

The other big thing that surprised me with this book is how Dakota seems to be turning out to be the Magical conscious for the community. Sure she started out that way in Atlanta, but across the country that reputation followed her as she demanded more of the magical people, that they come up with standards and live by them. I think that is a good thing and it will be interesting where this new role takes her.

[Anita · Rating 2 out of 5]

I composed this review in my head so many times, I can't believe I haven't committed it to the keyboard yet. The voice in this book was the wrong voice. It wasn't the character I remembered. She expressed bravado and swagger that felt completely out of character to me. I felt like I was reading the author, not the character, if that makes sense, and that let me down. Maybe there was simply too long of a break between writing the books. I really was bummed about it because I do love some of the creativity in the first two books. There were some ideas in them that I hadn't come across in extensive urban fantasy reading. And generally, I loved the characters in the first two books. So, this book was a let down.

The story features the heroine taking her adopted genius daughter to San Francisco for an award, but because they are supes, they have to travel with an entourage and negotiate through some messy politics. There's a side story about getting money owed by the Valentine foundation. Then the main story involving fire-weavers kicks in. There's a lesbian love interest that eventually takes the heroine to Hawaii. There's a dragon involved, and secret agencies. Eventually, she sets up a self-governing body for supes in San Francisco, counterpart to the one she set up in Atlanta.

[Rosalind M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was expecting to give this book five stars, but two elements derailed my initial impression. First, Dakota unnecessarily generated multiple situations she'd then feel she needed to apologize for. Brashness is not an unfamiliar part of her personality, but on some of these occasions, the missteps should have been unlikely for her. Second, the choices she made during and after the story's climax seemed to dismiss the emotional impact of that climax. Forgiveness is a good thing, yes, but the betrayal that occurred here was too big to be worthy of the forgiveness and concern Dakota was willing to extend. Not saying she should have let them die, but considering how stronglyshe's felt her other relationship losses, she should have been allowed more anger, at the very least.

[Lori · Rating 2 out of 5]

Baller cover image, but the book was a dud. I did not like this Dakota at all. Her personality is shifting into this egomaniac-power hungry-I-can-do-no-wrong type. Her relationship to Jewel never felt real and the eventual betrayal was so obvious. The end was really anti-climactic and what, Jewel gets a bonk on the head and sees real pain on Dakota's face and all of a sudden changes her mind? Then the handling of the liquid fire was bizarre, I mean, Dakota just gets to call the shots and implicitly trusts that her DEI ex can make sure she gets to say who gets it? Bizarre. I had such high hopes for this book and am bummed. A dragon hatches, which is the entire point of the story, and then just flies away to another planet? That's it?

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read, very much worth the wait, although the next book can’t come fast enough.
It answered some lingering questions that I had from the first two books.
I can't wait to see what happens next with Dakota and Cinnamon.

***Copy obtained through NetGalley because I couldn't want to wait for my print copy to read it!***

[Cyndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had been eagerly awaiting book #3. While I enjoyed the book, I was disappointed that I didn't find it as absorbing as the first two. Just didn't have me on the edge of my seat nor did I mind having to leave off reading to do something else. Just didn't hold my attention as the first two in the series did.

[Sheryl]

Just couldn't get through this book. I feel a little "disloyal" because I loved the first two books in the series but I guess 4 years between book 2 and book 3 was just too long for me. I just can't re-connect with the characters, the world or the plot.

[Della · Rating 4 out of 5]

I devoured the first two books in this series, however this one took me awhile to get into but once it started to move it was intriguing, action packed, and incredibly creative. I look forward to the next adventure.

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third installment of this series is outstanding. For any who are interested in reading this series, it is best to read them in order, as this will explain prior events that took place. This book has humor, action and all that you would expect from someone of Anthony Francis' caliber.

[KK · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic read. The story was well paced and exciting and Dakota is really growing into her own, not just magically but as a mother. I love her relationship with Cinnamon. The only negative I can really say about this series is that Dakota falls in love entirely too easy.

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

READ THIS SERIES

I love everything about them!

[✿Emma-Louise Violet · Rating 3 out of 5]

3½ Stars

[Ioan Camillus · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only bad thing about this series is how long it took for us to get book 3, can't wait for book 4

[Jacqueline · Rating 3 out of 5]

extra 1/2 star.

[Suz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

I liked this one a lot. Better than the first two. I'm all in for this series.