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Dragon Kings #0.5
Silent Warrior
A silent woman ashamed of her criminal background becomes a Cage warrior to seek redemption. An unrepentant fortune hunter will do anything to escape his mounting debts. Although rivals on the streets of Hong Kong, they find common ground when seeking their clan's stolen idol, but for vastly different reasons. Neither one suspects that love will begin when he becomes the first man in five years to hear her speak.
"The romance was brilliant; I swooned all over the place. I thought they were amazing together, the chemistry was explosive in and out of the bedroom." - Amazon US
"It has a Black Dagger Brotherhood by Ward feel to it. Rough, handsome and hard Dragon Warriors with a lot of attitude and a boat load of trouble following them around." - Amazon US
"The romance was brilliant; I swooned all over the place. I thought they were amazing together, the chemistry was explosive in and out of the bedroom." - Amazon US
"It has a Black Dagger Brotherhood by Ward feel to it. Rough, handsome and hard Dragon Warriors with a lot of attitude and a boat load of trouble following them around." - Amazon US
116 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2013
10 people are currently reading
719 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Piper
7 books238 followersLindsey Piper is the alter ego of award-winning historical and contemporary romance author
Carrie Lofty
. She was nominated for a RITA for Best Paranormal in 2013 for the first in her Dragon Kings series, CAGED WARRIOR. She lives and writes in Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
April 6, 2013
4 Stars with a tiny caveat...
I read the first novel, Caged Warrior, before I read this one. I was already invested in these two, and I'm really glad that I read them like I did because I believe it very much enhanced my reading experience with this prequel novella. Like other reviewers have stated, this book gives almost no clues as to who the Dragon Kings are or what their place is in the world. Though even Caged Warrior reveals things very slowly, I think it was possibly planned this way...instead of a prequel, this came across as more of a teaser.
Hark and Silence meet in battle with each other...Silence on a mission from her captors, Hark running from some bad people. Completely opposite, these two complement each other in battle as well as in spirit, and it doesn't take long for their strange compatibility to turn to attraction and sexual tension.
For Silence, Hark's nonstop chatter, obvious innuendo, and outright sexual propositions make her FEEL for the first time in a long time. Sometimes the feeling is irritation, sure...but more often it's a tug of sexual awareness and curiosity. As for Hark, Silence's silence is a challenge to overcome. At first, he wants to make her cry out in pain when he wins their fight, but soon he wants to hear her cry out his name in bed.
Only in PNR can insta-love work as well as it does here and still have the ability to tug on my heart like these two did. The bond that forms so quickly between these two lonely souls is palpable. And once again, Lindsey Piper manages to take a brutal situation and two fairly selfish, self centered individuals and turn it into a love story. The sex is hard, fast, a little dark, with violence lingering in the background...because after all, these are warriors of the Dragon King race...
By the way, this is not a dragon shifter series. The Dragon Kings are a race of people from five clans with different powers that they can call upon...at this point, I think that they revere the dragon as the source of their power.
This series...(which I am LOVING) is not a nicely wrapped up hearts and flowers mating ceremony followed by world peace. So far, it's an ongoing conflict, with each additional character bringing new, intriguing meat to the table. These men and women are crazy, barbaric, and for the most part not extremely loveable until you get to know them a bit. Though I've got to say, Hark is pretty freaking funny!!
I'll add some quotes and goodies closer to the release date. Suffice it to say, I haven't been this excited about PNR for quite awhile. And this author's carefully hidden identity is driving me CRAZY!!!!! I want more!!!
I read the first novel, Caged Warrior, before I read this one. I was already invested in these two, and I'm really glad that I read them like I did because I believe it very much enhanced my reading experience with this prequel novella. Like other reviewers have stated, this book gives almost no clues as to who the Dragon Kings are or what their place is in the world. Though even Caged Warrior reveals things very slowly, I think it was possibly planned this way...instead of a prequel, this came across as more of a teaser.
Hark and Silence meet in battle with each other...Silence on a mission from her captors, Hark running from some bad people. Completely opposite, these two complement each other in battle as well as in spirit, and it doesn't take long for their strange compatibility to turn to attraction and sexual tension.
For Silence, Hark's nonstop chatter, obvious innuendo, and outright sexual propositions make her FEEL for the first time in a long time. Sometimes the feeling is irritation, sure...but more often it's a tug of sexual awareness and curiosity. As for Hark, Silence's silence is a challenge to overcome. At first, he wants to make her cry out in pain when he wins their fight, but soon he wants to hear her cry out his name in bed.
Only in PNR can insta-love work as well as it does here and still have the ability to tug on my heart like these two did. The bond that forms so quickly between these two lonely souls is palpable. And once again, Lindsey Piper manages to take a brutal situation and two fairly selfish, self centered individuals and turn it into a love story. The sex is hard, fast, a little dark, with violence lingering in the background...because after all, these are warriors of the Dragon King race...
By the way, this is not a dragon shifter series. The Dragon Kings are a race of people from five clans with different powers that they can call upon...at this point, I think that they revere the dragon as the source of their power.
This series...(which I am LOVING) is not a nicely wrapped up hearts and flowers mating ceremony followed by world peace. So far, it's an ongoing conflict, with each additional character bringing new, intriguing meat to the table. These men and women are crazy, barbaric, and for the most part not extremely loveable until you get to know them a bit. Though I've got to say, Hark is pretty freaking funny!!
I'll add some quotes and goodies closer to the release date. Suffice it to say, I haven't been this excited about PNR for quite awhile. And this author's carefully hidden identity is driving me CRAZY!!!!! I want more!!!
June 9, 2013
3.5 Stars...Psst, look! Pictures!
Hong Kong
Silent Warrior is the prequel to Lindsey Piper’s new paranormal series. The novella centers on two Dragon King characters - Silence and Hark. Having no idea what Dragon Kings were or what this series was about, I decided to try this out because of the good ratings. Upon completion, I’m still hazy about the details of this world.
The Cage (similar to UFC cage but with a covered top and concrete floor cover with clay
Silence, a collared Cage warrior for the Aster Cartel, vows to return honor to Clan Sath, who are referred to as “the Thiefs” by the other four Dragon King clans – Indranan (“the Heartless”) Pendray (“the Reapers”), Tigony (“the Tricksters”), and Garnis (“the Lost”) -- due to their covetous nature. A forseer’s words hover in her mind. Hark is trying to earn money to repay his outstanding debts. The Kawashima Cartel wants their money! He’s in deep poop! The action-packed beginning commences in a gladiator-style Cage match in Hong Kong. They skillfully cut, slash, and beat each other leading to an excess of energy they know how to dispel after the fight. Throw in some steamy sexy times and the Kawashimas and the game is on.
I rubbed my hands with glee thinking I had found a new dark paranormal romance I could dig my teeth into. While the beginning started with a bang, the details of this world were a combination of too much and too little. The terminology use lost me a few times. I also didn’t know how the pieces fit and what I was supposed to be looking for. (What does it mean to belong to a cartel? What are Dragon Kings? What is the function of the cartel in this world? Why are the Dragon Kings nearly extinct? What are their powers? Are they immortal? What’s their deal? Who, what, why, when, how, where, and so on. ) More questions arose as some were answered.
I’ll attribute the lean story to this being a novella. If there had been a glossary explaining the Dragon King world and if the focus would have been on the protagonists building relationship – I think the novella would have been meatier. As it is, Silent Warrior encourages me to believe that Lindsey Piper’s series will have loads of action, hot lovin’, and a different type of romance that I am craving.
[A glossary is located on Lindsey Piper’s author page. It will help readers!]
Hong Kong
Silent Warrior is the prequel to Lindsey Piper’s new paranormal series. The novella centers on two Dragon King characters - Silence and Hark. Having no idea what Dragon Kings were or what this series was about, I decided to try this out because of the good ratings. Upon completion, I’m still hazy about the details of this world.
The Cage (similar to UFC cage but with a covered top and concrete floor cover with clay
Silence, a collared Cage warrior for the Aster Cartel, vows to return honor to Clan Sath, who are referred to as “the Thiefs” by the other four Dragon King clans – Indranan (“the Heartless”) Pendray (“the Reapers”), Tigony (“the Tricksters”), and Garnis (“the Lost”) -- due to their covetous nature. A forseer’s words hover in her mind. Hark is trying to earn money to repay his outstanding debts. The Kawashima Cartel wants their money! He’s in deep poop! The action-packed beginning commences in a gladiator-style Cage match in Hong Kong. They skillfully cut, slash, and beat each other leading to an excess of energy they know how to dispel after the fight. Throw in some steamy sexy times and the Kawashimas and the game is on.
I rubbed my hands with glee thinking I had found a new dark paranormal romance I could dig my teeth into. While the beginning started with a bang, the details of this world were a combination of too much and too little. The terminology use lost me a few times. I also didn’t know how the pieces fit and what I was supposed to be looking for. (What does it mean to belong to a cartel? What are Dragon Kings? What is the function of the cartel in this world? Why are the Dragon Kings nearly extinct? What are their powers? Are they immortal? What’s their deal? Who, what, why, when, how, where, and so on. ) More questions arose as some were answered.
I’ll attribute the lean story to this being a novella. If there had been a glossary explaining the Dragon King world and if the focus would have been on the protagonists building relationship – I think the novella would have been meatier. As it is, Silent Warrior encourages me to believe that Lindsey Piper’s series will have loads of action, hot lovin’, and a different type of romance that I am craving.
[A glossary is located on Lindsey Piper’s author page. It will help readers!]
April 11, 2013
I feel like I just watched an episode of gilmore girls on fast forward. Those girls could talk fast, but damn the conversations in this book were faster.
I feel at a loss as to what this book was supposed to be about. Was this book a prequel? Should I have read the next book first? Although I always applause the work of authors who have "fast paced" books apparently there is such a thing as too fast. I believe this book would have been better if we got more introduction to the world and characters. I was intrigued, it sounded fascinating but to me, unfortunately it was poorly executed.
I feel at a loss as to what this book was supposed to be about. Was this book a prequel? Should I have read the next book first? Although I always applause the work of authors who have "fast paced" books apparently there is such a thing as too fast. I believe this book would have been better if we got more introduction to the world and characters. I was intrigued, it sounded fascinating but to me, unfortunately it was poorly executed.
January 5, 2017
"Recklesness is our intoxicant of choice."
One cage warrior fighting to buy redemption, another one fighting to repay debts. While she intimidates people with her silence, he tries to set other off balance with his cocky stream of words. After fight, they realize that they may have quite a lot in common and become fascinated by each other in all possible ways...
This short novella written in dual POV is a mixture of action, fantasy and adult topics. I LOVED IT! Writing was extremely engaging and book was hard to put down. Moreover, this story was unbelievably hot. I haven't read anything THAT sexy in a very long time. Attration between Silence and Hark was intense and off the charts. Another plus was the fact that I immediatelly felt connected to main characters and got to love them very quickly.
Seriously, I cannot wait to read more stories set in the world author created in this book! It was perfect and if you don't mind insta-love, read this!
* I received ARC as an exchange for honest review *
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
August 31, 2019
I didn't really get it. Like . . . any of it The worldbuilding, the relationship . . . I don't what it was all about.
But, hey, I cleared out a book I owned AND got a bingo book.
Fulfills "Dragon" for 2019 Ripped Bodice Bingo
But, hey, I cleared out a book I owned AND got a bingo book.
Fulfills "Dragon" for 2019 Ripped Bodice Bingo
June 26, 2013
Let me preface this review by stating that I read Caged Warrior first, initially unaware that there was a prequel to the trilogy. Once I finished book one, I decided to go back and read the prequel hoping the story would provide more exposition and clarification about the mystical origins and existence of Dragon Kings. Furthermore, I wanted to learn more about humans’ involvement with this secret race of people.
The story opens in the middle of a fight between two Dragon King warriors from the Sath clan, dressed in armor with their choice of weapons. They use whatever skills they have to fight for a win. Silence is a Caged Warrior from the Aster Cartel who finds herself struggling to outmatch Hark, whose debt forces him to fight for money.
Silence and Hark’s alternating point-of-views throughout the story are effective in providing greater insight into their motivations and vulnerabilities. Since volunteering to fight for the Aster Cartel, the woman known as Silence has never spoken a word to anyone. Her persona is a direct contrast to the easy going, talkative Hark, who finds her silence unnerving. His goal besides winning is to make her say something. While Silence intimidates Hark by remaining wordless, he tries to throw her off balance with his excessive talking and atypical behavior.
Although Silence and Hark have contrasting personalities, they manage to fall in love while running from enemies in Hong Kong. Their contentious bantering along with their secret revelations make this story an engaging read. Overall, this short work is packed with action and suspense and leaves you with an uncertainty about Silence and Hark’s future. Because of the story’s brevity, I accepted the “insta-love” between Silence and Hark, even though it is unrealistic, given the time frame.
I already knew the outcome of this story because Silence and Hark continue to play a role in Caged Warrior. Still, I was glad to learn their backstory and the tenderness behind their union. The sacrifice that Hark is willing to make for Silence is touching.
On the other hand, I was disappointed to find that this prequel did not help me to better understand this fascinating world Piper has created. In fact, I think I would have been more confused about the sequence of events if I had not already read book one. The lack of explanation about the history and current existence of the Dragon Kings kept me from being fully immersed in this fantasy.
The story opens in the middle of a fight between two Dragon King warriors from the Sath clan, dressed in armor with their choice of weapons. They use whatever skills they have to fight for a win. Silence is a Caged Warrior from the Aster Cartel who finds herself struggling to outmatch Hark, whose debt forces him to fight for money.
Silence and Hark’s alternating point-of-views throughout the story are effective in providing greater insight into their motivations and vulnerabilities. Since volunteering to fight for the Aster Cartel, the woman known as Silence has never spoken a word to anyone. Her persona is a direct contrast to the easy going, talkative Hark, who finds her silence unnerving. His goal besides winning is to make her say something. While Silence intimidates Hark by remaining wordless, he tries to throw her off balance with his excessive talking and atypical behavior.
Although Silence and Hark have contrasting personalities, they manage to fall in love while running from enemies in Hong Kong. Their contentious bantering along with their secret revelations make this story an engaging read. Overall, this short work is packed with action and suspense and leaves you with an uncertainty about Silence and Hark’s future. Because of the story’s brevity, I accepted the “insta-love” between Silence and Hark, even though it is unrealistic, given the time frame.
I already knew the outcome of this story because Silence and Hark continue to play a role in Caged Warrior. Still, I was glad to learn their backstory and the tenderness behind their union. The sacrifice that Hark is willing to make for Silence is touching.
On the other hand, I was disappointed to find that this prequel did not help me to better understand this fascinating world Piper has created. In fact, I think I would have been more confused about the sequence of events if I had not already read book one. The lack of explanation about the history and current existence of the Dragon Kings kept me from being fully immersed in this fantasy.
April 23, 2013
Find this and other reviews @ The Demon Librarian**
A thrilling intro to a new series!
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to ride a rocket? You know, like you see cartoon characters do? Yeah, me either, but after reading this action-packed novella, I think I have a pretty good idea!
SILENT WARRIOR is a novella that introduces readers to the Dragon Kings. Set in Hong Kong, in an underground world run by human cartels, it starts with a bang and doesn't let up until the very last page is turned.
The main characters are Hark and Silence, two Sath clan warriors who meet in a Cage match in Hong Kong. Hark is a free Dragon. No cartel ties, no dampening collar like others of his kind are forced to wear. He comes and goes as he pleases and answers to no one. Well, except for those he owes money to, and unfortunately for him, they aren't exactly the patient, understanding types. He enters the Cage match to earn quick cash and enjoy some good ol' fashioned violent fun. His opponent is the deadly and aptly named Silence, a fellow Dragon King who hasn't spoken a word in five years. Officially, Silence is in Hong Kong on behalf of her human masters, but Silence has plans of her own. She's looking for something, and she won't quit until she has it. Little does she know that charming chatterbox Hark might be the key to her finding what she seeks.
SILENT WARRIOR is a novella on steroids. There's intense fighting, danger and secrets galore, and a whole series of narrow-misses and quick escapes. And somewhere in the middle of all that craziness, author Lindsey Piper builds one helluva hot romance. I don't have a freaking clue how she did it but I am damned impressed. Hark and Silence are like yin and yang, utterly different and perfectly balanced. I loved them and wanted more, more, more!
When I finished reading this novella, I was exhausted and exhilarated and grinning like a madwoman. It was freaking awesome.
Must-read? Um, YEAH!
5 Stars ★★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
**Book one in the Dragon Kings series, CAGED WARRIOR, releases in June 2013**
A thrilling intro to a new series!
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to ride a rocket? You know, like you see cartoon characters do? Yeah, me either, but after reading this action-packed novella, I think I have a pretty good idea!
SILENT WARRIOR is a novella that introduces readers to the Dragon Kings. Set in Hong Kong, in an underground world run by human cartels, it starts with a bang and doesn't let up until the very last page is turned.
The main characters are Hark and Silence, two Sath clan warriors who meet in a Cage match in Hong Kong. Hark is a free Dragon. No cartel ties, no dampening collar like others of his kind are forced to wear. He comes and goes as he pleases and answers to no one. Well, except for those he owes money to, and unfortunately for him, they aren't exactly the patient, understanding types. He enters the Cage match to earn quick cash and enjoy some good ol' fashioned violent fun. His opponent is the deadly and aptly named Silence, a fellow Dragon King who hasn't spoken a word in five years. Officially, Silence is in Hong Kong on behalf of her human masters, but Silence has plans of her own. She's looking for something, and she won't quit until she has it. Little does she know that charming chatterbox Hark might be the key to her finding what she seeks.
SILENT WARRIOR is a novella on steroids. There's intense fighting, danger and secrets galore, and a whole series of narrow-misses and quick escapes. And somewhere in the middle of all that craziness, author Lindsey Piper builds one helluva hot romance. I don't have a freaking clue how she did it but I am damned impressed. Hark and Silence are like yin and yang, utterly different and perfectly balanced. I loved them and wanted more, more, more!
When I finished reading this novella, I was exhausted and exhilarated and grinning like a madwoman. It was freaking awesome.
Must-read? Um, YEAH!
5 Stars ★★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
**Book one in the Dragon Kings series, CAGED WARRIOR, releases in June 2013**
March 5, 2013
Two cage fighters, one male and one female are battling for prize money. The male can’t seem to shut his mouth while the female is complete mute (by choice). The fight gets out of hand and both combatants are told to leave, but quickly attacked. Pooling their resources gives them a chance to escape with minimal damage. Realizing they are both Dragon Kings, they take out their battle ready emotions with sex. In a world gone mad with servitude collars and cage fighting are the norm, two lonely Dragon Kings must decide their future from a brief glimpse into each other’s minds.
Silent Warrior was a thrill ride into a dark and violent world where Dragon Kings fight to survive and thrive. Once worshipped as gods, they are on the brink of change or obliteration from the world.
I really wanted to love this story. It had non-stop action and is highly sexual but I really had a difficultly time following the actual plot. I thought I might be missing vital information covered in a previous book to comprehend what appears to be a fabulous world...but this is the first book in this series. You know when you accidently skip a book in a series and you’re completely lost and trying to play catch up, that’s how I felt during this entire book. In the end, Silent Warrior has huge potential and could become a fabulous series that I’d like to follow if I could figure out what the heck is going on.
This ARC copy of Silent Warrior was given to me by Pocket Star in exchange for a honest review. Publication April 22, 2013.
Silent Warrior was a thrill ride into a dark and violent world where Dragon Kings fight to survive and thrive. Once worshipped as gods, they are on the brink of change or obliteration from the world.
I really wanted to love this story. It had non-stop action and is highly sexual but I really had a difficultly time following the actual plot. I thought I might be missing vital information covered in a previous book to comprehend what appears to be a fabulous world...but this is the first book in this series. You know when you accidently skip a book in a series and you’re completely lost and trying to play catch up, that’s how I felt during this entire book. In the end, Silent Warrior has huge potential and could become a fabulous series that I’d like to follow if I could figure out what the heck is going on.
This ARC copy of Silent Warrior was given to me by Pocket Star in exchange for a honest review. Publication April 22, 2013.
March 22, 2013
This has to be one of the best series introductory novellas I have ever read. I really loved it, I loved the plot and the setting, it was dark, gritty, violent and sexy.
The characters were amazing. Silence was so cool I almost wanted to be her. She is feisty, funny and fierce, she can hold her own in fights and is more than capable of looking after herself. Hark was just fan-girl worthy. I LOVED him. He was strong, smart, funny and extremely charming with a sex appeal that could bring anyone to their knees. He is, without doubt, one of the best male characters I have read in the last year or so.
The romance was brilliant; I swooned all over the place. I thought they were amazing together, the chemistry was explosive in and out of the bedroom. The marriage/mating/bonding process was really nicely done and I thought it was a great concept.
Silent Warrior brings a dark and dreary edge to the fantasy/urban fantasy genre. It was gritty, romantic and at times even funny. I simple cannot wait to read more from this series and more from this author.
The characters were amazing. Silence was so cool I almost wanted to be her. She is feisty, funny and fierce, she can hold her own in fights and is more than capable of looking after herself. Hark was just fan-girl worthy. I LOVED him. He was strong, smart, funny and extremely charming with a sex appeal that could bring anyone to their knees. He is, without doubt, one of the best male characters I have read in the last year or so.
The romance was brilliant; I swooned all over the place. I thought they were amazing together, the chemistry was explosive in and out of the bedroom. The marriage/mating/bonding process was really nicely done and I thought it was a great concept.
Silent Warrior brings a dark and dreary edge to the fantasy/urban fantasy genre. It was gritty, romantic and at times even funny. I simple cannot wait to read more from this series and more from this author.
May 3, 2013
This was a fast paced, prequel to Piper's to the upcoming Caged Warrior in Piper's new Dragon Kings series. I don't know that Silent Warrior gave me a good feel for what the world is or what the series itself will be like, but I liked this story a great deal. Two brawling warriors, Hark and Silence, use words as weapons to unsettle their opponents - Hark's constant stream of joking sarcastic patter makes others underestimate him and Silence's silence throws them just as far off balance.
After facing off in a match that ends in a draw, Hark and Silence run into each other again, get into a scrap and then decide to work off a little post fight adrenaline between the sheets. But events ensue that turn their oh so steamy 'one night' into much more. Commitments come quickly - this is a short story after all - but a brief stint in each others minds make this work - and I loved the lines that Hark Speaks to Silence: "I spent only two minutes in your mind. Now I want to spend the rest of my life learning what I missed." *sigh*
After facing off in a match that ends in a draw, Hark and Silence run into each other again, get into a scrap and then decide to work off a little post fight adrenaline between the sheets. But events ensue that turn their oh so steamy 'one night' into much more. Commitments come quickly - this is a short story after all - but a brief stint in each others minds make this work - and I loved the lines that Hark Speaks to Silence: "I spent only two minutes in your mind. Now I want to spend the rest of my life learning what I missed." *sigh*
May 4, 2013
This looks like a verrrry promising series! Can't wait for 'Caged Warrior'....
May 14, 2019
An exciting introduction to the world of the Dragon Kings, beings of great power that were once worshiped as gods.
The couple of this novella meet in an underground fighting ring where they are fighting each other, both for their own reasons. The attraction between them is intense and when they unexpectedly find themselves allied, they complement each other perfectly, despite, or perhaps because of their differences.
They decide to spend the night together, and it's definitely a night to remember, full of adventure, excitement and unexpected emotional connection.
Light and enjoyable story that is strictly adult. I'm looking forward to reading more of the Dragon Kings' world in the first book in the series, Caged Warrior.
The couple of this novella meet in an underground fighting ring where they are fighting each other, both for their own reasons. The attraction between them is intense and when they unexpectedly find themselves allied, they complement each other perfectly, despite, or perhaps because of their differences.
They decide to spend the night together, and it's definitely a night to remember, full of adventure, excitement and unexpected emotional connection.
Light and enjoyable story that is strictly adult. I'm looking forward to reading more of the Dragon Kings' world in the first book in the series, Caged Warrior.
July 15, 2013
Even though this is a prequel novella, I actually read it after reading Caged Warrior, as suggested by people reviewing both books on Goodreads. Honestly, I’m not sure what order would be best to read them in. I wasn’t happy with the lack of world building in Caged Warrior, and was hoping for more background information on the Dragon Kings in this one, but I still don’t feel any better informed in that respect.
What we get is the story of Hark and Silence – two Dragon King characters that appear in Caged Warrior, and instantly intrigued me. This is their beginning – how they met and came together.
Silence is called so because she’s… well… silent. She is a fierce warrior who fights in the cages, yet she does not speak - until she meets Hark. There is a lot of depth to her character, and I was surprised at her wit and ferocity - and also a little impressed! It was a side of her I wasn’t expecting, and I like seeing the real her behind the façade she keeps up to protect herself.
And Hark is freaking hilarious! A “scruffy, wavy-haired blond man with a grin like a clown on ecstasy”, he constantly banters to himself, or anybody else who happens to be around.
“I'm Hark ... You can call me Hark, if you decide to speak. Or you can just say my name in your mind, with wonder and fear and maybe a hint of sexual curiosity."
Seriously, the man does not shut up! Even while fighting he is running his mouth, and he spices up the mad banter with some dirty talk with Silence during some VERY hot scenes!
I enjoyed watching these two unexpectedly come together, and open up to each other - in between mad fights, underworld drama and creepy supernatural violence. With intense, pretty much non-stop action, and a hot (and fast-moving) romance, this novella fits in nicely with the Dragon Kings series.
3 stars :)
What we get is the story of Hark and Silence – two Dragon King characters that appear in Caged Warrior, and instantly intrigued me. This is their beginning – how they met and came together.
Silence is called so because she’s… well… silent. She is a fierce warrior who fights in the cages, yet she does not speak - until she meets Hark. There is a lot of depth to her character, and I was surprised at her wit and ferocity - and also a little impressed! It was a side of her I wasn’t expecting, and I like seeing the real her behind the façade she keeps up to protect herself.
And Hark is freaking hilarious! A “scruffy, wavy-haired blond man with a grin like a clown on ecstasy”, he constantly banters to himself, or anybody else who happens to be around.
“I'm Hark ... You can call me Hark, if you decide to speak. Or you can just say my name in your mind, with wonder and fear and maybe a hint of sexual curiosity."
Seriously, the man does not shut up! Even while fighting he is running his mouth, and he spices up the mad banter with some dirty talk with Silence during some VERY hot scenes!
I enjoyed watching these two unexpectedly come together, and open up to each other - in between mad fights, underworld drama and creepy supernatural violence. With intense, pretty much non-stop action, and a hot (and fast-moving) romance, this novella fits in nicely with the Dragon Kings series.
3 stars :)
April 21, 2013
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I didn’t know anything about this series, so when I found this prequel, I thought it might give me an idea of the story.
This is a short novella featuring two characters completely different. Hark is a noisy man, who loves to talk and does not think when he wants anything. Silence is the opposite, a young woman who speaks little or as we understand with her nickname, is calm and collected. Their meeting will immediately spark, especially while Hark is determined to put her in his bed and force her to talk to him. And I must say that given the mill word that is, it does not take him long to crack her.
It was pretty cute to see them both. They hide both many secrets but they complement each other perfectly. We discover throughout this story who our heroes are and we can learn a few elements about their past, allowing us to understand how they became what they are now.
This novel was a cute introduction and it is true that I have many questions about the world that the author has created. It can be quite interesting to read the first novel to have some answers.
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I didn’t know anything about this series, so when I found this prequel, I thought it might give me an idea of the story.
This is a short novella featuring two characters completely different. Hark is a noisy man, who loves to talk and does not think when he wants anything. Silence is the opposite, a young woman who speaks little or as we understand with her nickname, is calm and collected. Their meeting will immediately spark, especially while Hark is determined to put her in his bed and force her to talk to him. And I must say that given the mill word that is, it does not take him long to crack her.
It was pretty cute to see them both. They hide both many secrets but they complement each other perfectly. We discover throughout this story who our heroes are and we can learn a few elements about their past, allowing us to understand how they became what they are now.
This novel was a cute introduction and it is true that I have many questions about the world that the author has created. It can be quite interesting to read the first novel to have some answers.
April 21, 2013
I am not yet sure how I feel about these "prequel" novellas. Some are great, some are horrible. But most, like Silent Warrior, fall somewhere in the middle and I am not too sure about them. Their overall success or failure depends on the novel they are "prequeling"
Hark of Sath is a Dragon King down on his luck. He is being chased by the loan sharks that he owes and he finds himself in a bar in Hong Kong where he is fitting a brawl to earn some cash. His opponent is a sexy and mysterious woman. She refuses to speak, despite his constant prattle, and she intrigues him like no other. When the two try to leave the bar, they are attacked, but they work amazingly well together as a team. Their frantic escape through Hong Kong's back ends is enlightening about what the two are capable of doing together.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
Hark of Sath is a Dragon King down on his luck. He is being chased by the loan sharks that he owes and he finds himself in a bar in Hong Kong where he is fitting a brawl to earn some cash. His opponent is a sexy and mysterious woman. She refuses to speak, despite his constant prattle, and she intrigues him like no other. When the two try to leave the bar, they are attacked, but they work amazingly well together as a team. Their frantic escape through Hong Kong's back ends is enlightening about what the two are capable of doing together.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/0...
February 17, 2013
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
When I started reading this novel/novella, I wasn't expecting much, other than getting through my pile of ARCs. So I was really surprised when I started reading about a female cage fighter who is silent around others and a male cage fighter who can't help but open his mouth.
This intriguing pair go through a series of events together, in the space of a couple of hours, that bonds the pair so strongly that they have no hope of ever separating in the future.
What I loved most about this, was how the author didn't shy away from the idea of a female warrior. Silence was a warrior and she knew how to take beatings and give them out too. I thought it made this novel richer and realistic rather than a shallow read.
ARC courtesy of Edelweiss and Simon and Shuster
When I started reading this novel/novella, I wasn't expecting much, other than getting through my pile of ARCs. So I was really surprised when I started reading about a female cage fighter who is silent around others and a male cage fighter who can't help but open his mouth.
This intriguing pair go through a series of events together, in the space of a couple of hours, that bonds the pair so strongly that they have no hope of ever separating in the future.
What I loved most about this, was how the author didn't shy away from the idea of a female warrior. Silence was a warrior and she knew how to take beatings and give them out too. I thought it made this novel richer and realistic rather than a shallow read.
ARC courtesy of Edelweiss and Simon and Shuster
May 3, 2015
Liiiiiiiiiiiiiiked it. Enjoyed the backstory of Silence and Hark... Doing some reading for writing my paper too!!
January 12, 2019
Wow! It’s hard to consider not finishing a novella when it only has 80 pages, but really, I did think about it. It was just so stupid how many of those pages that were just filled with sex, sex and more sex AND they were both stinky and filthy from their cage fight.
It had great possibilities but the author had sex on her mind and no plot so I won’t be reading this author again. I need something more than sex when I read. So, at 45% I quit reading.
This was supposed to be about dragons but I never saw any evidence of one. Hark had to cage fight to pay back some debts and she fought… well, I don’t know why she fought.
The story was simply stupid.
As I said it was nothing but sex and the F-bomb was used 43 times in this 80 page novella.
As to the narration: I almost finished listening to it just to listen to Robin Dane. He was great and I will definitely look for other books he’s narrated.
April 19, 2013
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-silent...
Silence and Hark meet when they are matched in the ring of a fight club in Hong Kong. Hark is all talk, he taunts and talks smack while trying to get any sort of reaction out of his opponent. Silence is as good as her name… not speaking a word, or uttering even a sound as they beat on each other. Complete opposites from the same sect of dragon kings. Both are Sath, called thieves because of their ability to steal or borrow others powers for a limited amount of time. Silence is in the ring to make enough money to continue her search for an ancient relic in the hopes of making up for a past crime and Hark needs the money to get out from under the debts he owes. Each work for different mafia families for different reasons, but on this night they will become lovers and partners against the seedy underbelly of the city.
Silent Warrior is the prequel to the new Dragon Kings series by Lindsey Piper which comes out later this year. This novella exceeded every expectation I had when I picked it up. The Dragon King world is violent, gritty, dark and sexy as hell. It had the feel more of an urban fantasy than a paranormal romance. Everything this couple did was hard, from fighting to making love. Hark is a talker, his character seemed a little overwhelming at first, but his reasons for filling every waking moment making noise soon becomes apparent when he confides his past. Silence was an awesome heroine, so tough and brutal, not giving an inch until Hark keeps at her and gets under her skin:
For a novella the world building is incredible, the grungy, dirty, crime ridden city breathes life into this story almost as much as the characters do. I can’t wait to get more into the history of the dragon kings, how they ended up cage fighting and being collared. This was a such a compelling introduction to this series that I am putting the first book Caged Warrior on my auto buy list when it comes out in June. Final Grade: A
Favorite Quotes:
“Okay, fine. I get it. Strong, silent type? I thought it was reserved for cops and guys in action movies, but I can adapt.” He hefted his sword and winked. “I’m modern. Feminists don’t intimate me.”
Silence and Hark meet when they are matched in the ring of a fight club in Hong Kong. Hark is all talk, he taunts and talks smack while trying to get any sort of reaction out of his opponent. Silence is as good as her name… not speaking a word, or uttering even a sound as they beat on each other. Complete opposites from the same sect of dragon kings. Both are Sath, called thieves because of their ability to steal or borrow others powers for a limited amount of time. Silence is in the ring to make enough money to continue her search for an ancient relic in the hopes of making up for a past crime and Hark needs the money to get out from under the debts he owes. Each work for different mafia families for different reasons, but on this night they will become lovers and partners against the seedy underbelly of the city.
Silent Warrior is the prequel to the new Dragon Kings series by Lindsey Piper which comes out later this year. This novella exceeded every expectation I had when I picked it up. The Dragon King world is violent, gritty, dark and sexy as hell. It had the feel more of an urban fantasy than a paranormal romance. Everything this couple did was hard, from fighting to making love. Hark is a talker, his character seemed a little overwhelming at first, but his reasons for filling every waking moment making noise soon becomes apparent when he confides his past. Silence was an awesome heroine, so tough and brutal, not giving an inch until Hark keeps at her and gets under her skin:
He picked up the pace, their bodies brutal. Each stroke pushed his back against the wall. He was solid as that brick, going nowhere. The perfect ride. “Then you better tell me what I want to know. Come now, baby. Come and cuss and whisper your name. Blame me later. Beat me for it. I’ll love it and so will you and we’ll fuck all over again.” He slapped her ass. “But this first. Tell me your name.
For a novella the world building is incredible, the grungy, dirty, crime ridden city breathes life into this story almost as much as the characters do. I can’t wait to get more into the history of the dragon kings, how they ended up cage fighting and being collared. This was a such a compelling introduction to this series that I am putting the first book Caged Warrior on my auto buy list when it comes out in June. Final Grade: A
Favorite Quotes:
“Our clan likes its treasures and secrets,” she began haltingly.
He kissed her ear, whisper soft. “And here you are telling one to me, Orla of Sath. Of course we love our secrets. That means it stays with me. I don’t share precious things.”
July 22, 2013
I read Silent Warrior after Caged Warrior, thus I had a better idea of the world building. There is a mentioned of Dragon Kings, the collar wore by the warrior, the Cages and the Asters, but you won't find any explanation here. I can imagine if a reader start with Silent Warrior, she will have a hell of a time understanding what is happening.
I'm intrigue by both Silence and Hark in Caged Warrior and wish to find out about how they came together in the first place. Silence, the girl who doesn't talk, and Hark, the blabbermouth who talks to much. This guy can hold a long winded conversation all by himself. He doesn't even need your input. I guess he is the only guy who can converse while having an orgasm. Sometimes I wanted him to shut up, but mostly I shake my head grinning stupidly.
Silence is surprisingly not as silent as I thought she would be. She met Hark while battling at a bar and he thought she is mute or something. But later on, they start to get to know each other, she did talk a lot and told him about her past. Hark was in debt and was running from a few cartels that want his head. Silence for searching some kind of artifact to redeem herself.
Considering this is an eighty pages novella, things progress really fast and when things was nice and dandy at 80%, I was so engrossed with Hark and Silence and then suddenly I saw 'THE END'! My first reaction was, THAT'S IT?! I need more!
Overall, I find Hark and Silence are much more interesting character than Leto and Audrey. They so deserve to have a full length novel for themselves.
I'm intrigue by both Silence and Hark in Caged Warrior and wish to find out about how they came together in the first place. Silence, the girl who doesn't talk, and Hark, the blabbermouth who talks to much. This guy can hold a long winded conversation all by himself. He doesn't even need your input. I guess he is the only guy who can converse while having an orgasm. Sometimes I wanted him to shut up, but mostly I shake my head grinning stupidly.
Silence is surprisingly not as silent as I thought she would be. She met Hark while battling at a bar and he thought she is mute or something. But later on, they start to get to know each other, she did talk a lot and told him about her past. Hark was in debt and was running from a few cartels that want his head. Silence for searching some kind of artifact to redeem herself.
Considering this is an eighty pages novella, things progress really fast and when things was nice and dandy at 80%, I was so engrossed with Hark and Silence and then suddenly I saw 'THE END'! My first reaction was, THAT'S IT?! I need more!
Overall, I find Hark and Silence are much more interesting character than Leto and Audrey. They so deserve to have a full length novel for themselves.
April 23, 2013
This is a Quickie Review. For the full review, please visit The Romanceaholic. I’ve had my eye on this series ever since I got to read a snippet of the forthcoming first book in the series, Caged Warrior, due out in June of this year, and so I snapped up this novella as soon as I had the chance.
Dark and unapologetically gritty, this story was full of pulse-pounding action, and earthy heat that keeps you begging for more.
I loved that the heroine was a true warrior — she isn’t one of those supposedly “strong” heroines who suddenly turns weak and dependent on a hero halfway through the story. Instead, she lives up to her reputation as a fearsome warrior, and gives our hero, Hark, a real run for his money.
While I’m never one for a whirl-wind romance, and I didn’t care for the fact that the ending was more of a Happy For Now than a Happily Ever After, there was no denying that the courtship between these two, and the ending of the story simply fit with these two characters and the world that they lived in.
There was also one of, if not the most romantic scenes ever, despite the blood and brutality involved.
A very solid 4/5 Stars.
Dark and unapologetically gritty, this story was full of pulse-pounding action, and earthy heat that keeps you begging for more.
I loved that the heroine was a true warrior — she isn’t one of those supposedly “strong” heroines who suddenly turns weak and dependent on a hero halfway through the story. Instead, she lives up to her reputation as a fearsome warrior, and gives our hero, Hark, a real run for his money.
While I’m never one for a whirl-wind romance, and I didn’t care for the fact that the ending was more of a Happy For Now than a Happily Ever After, there was no denying that the courtship between these two, and the ending of the story simply fit with these two characters and the world that they lived in.
There was also one of, if not the most romantic scenes ever, despite the blood and brutality involved.
A very solid 4/5 Stars.
June 25, 2013
What it's about: The Dragon Kings is an excellent romance series, and Silent Warrior is the eagerly awaited prequel. One of the warriors is fighting in the cage to buy redemption, the other to repay debts. The silent warrior hasn't spoken a word to anyone in five years, so when Hark hears her voice, steam and love are mixed in with the fighting and chemistry.
Why you should read it: This short novella is a must-read for Dragon Kings lovers. Silence and Hark are two beautiful warriors fighting for different things and then each other. It's short but answers some questions for lovers of the series. If you haven't read the first book, Caged Warrior, then this prequel is the perfect opportunity to jump into the series. Hunted Warrior is the third, expected to be published later this year.
To see more book recs check out HEA
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
Why you should read it: This short novella is a must-read for Dragon Kings lovers. Silence and Hark are two beautiful warriors fighting for different things and then each other. It's short but answers some questions for lovers of the series. If you haven't read the first book, Caged Warrior, then this prequel is the perfect opportunity to jump into the series. Hunted Warrior is the third, expected to be published later this year.
To see more book recs check out HEA
http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyev...
June 14, 2013
I have yet to fully master the world and terminologies but despite these handicap, SILENT WARRIOR is a good series intro and it was VERY appetizing. The world is like Spartacus meets The Fight Club set in Hong Kong. There's a good mix of modern times and ethnic lore as far as the myth is concerned and the characters are unapologetic, sexy and downright lusty.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
March 23, 2013
A bit confusing I felt as if I was thrown into a new world without a map, however it was very intriguing. Do I want more? Hell yes.
June 26, 2013
3.75 stars I am intrigued enough to give the next book a chance.
August 18, 2018
Kind of interesting but I skimmed a bunch, reading when I was tired. Might want to come back if I'm looking for a dragon series in the future.
April 29, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/04/22/...
Has: Silence is a caged warrior and is collared by a clan called the Asters which she follows their orders in capturing other Dragon Warriors and other errands. SIlence also dabbles in cage fighting which helps her to release some pent up steam and to help her own personal quest to find an icon which was lost centuries ago. But during one mission she enters a cage match that has a fellow Dragon Warrior from the same clan as hers and she finds herself opening up to him even though her past made her closed off to others for so long.
When I first came across this series I was instantly intrigued by the premise of cage fighting warriors in a dark and dystopic world. However, in this prequel which introduces The Dragon King warriors, I was pretty confused about the world-building and the setting although I loved the gritty and dark tone which permeates throughout the novella. However although the main story and romance was fast pace and I enjoyed the love the story, the problem for me was trying to understand the rules of the world-building and the setting. I had to reread a few passages and even then some aspects of it such as the different classes of warrior dragons were vague. I was also left wondering about the world, was this modern or post apocalyptic, and what time period was it set. Yet the most important element of the story was the nature of the Dragon Warriors, they were set up as paranormal beings with healing powers and certain magical talents linked with their classes. I think I figured out the major aspects of the world-building, but I was left with a lot of questions and I wanted more clarification about the premise because it was interesting. It was semi-disappointing that I had so much trouble trying to figure things out.
MinnChica: I was really excited about the series. What’s not to love about supernatural underground cage fighters? However, for me the execution just didn’t really work. I was really confused about the world-building and was conflicted about how I felt about this book. On one hand, I was drawn in by the nitty gritty world that Piper created. It was dark and devious and I liked that. On the other hand, I was so confused about what was going on, who was who, what the Dragon Kings really are, what the Clans represent, and many of big factors to the world itself. When I closed the ebook, I was left with more questions than when I started, and that left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth.
Has: And that sums up how I feel about the too. I loved the grittiness and stark tone and the romance was fun and sexy which balanced out the darkness. I also enjoyed Silence who was stoic and quiet and how that would unnerve her opponents when she is engaging them in the cage fights and yet Hark who is the opposite broke through her walls. I also loved the scene where he got her to admit her real name, which was my favourite scene in the book. I also liked that he was such a hyper and snarky chatterbox and their chemistry really gelled because they were such opposites and it was enjoyable to see them interacting.
MinnChica: I liked the romance a little, but it as much as I wanted it to work, there was something missing there as well. I liked the way their romance developed over the course of the whole book, and that it didn’t feel rushed. The attraction between Silence and Hark was obvious, and I thought their sexy times were just that, very sexy. Like Has said, the difference between Hark and his talkative ways and Silence and her quiet manner was a wonderful juxtaposition. I liked the Dragon Kings ceremony of “mating” and hope we get to see more of that in future books.
Has: I found the romance the strongest aspect of the book, and although I really liked the tone of the world-building, I wished it was explained more because it was the weakest factor in the story. I have so much mixed feelings about this novella because while I liked the love story and I definitely agree the ‘mating ceremony’ was one of the most unique scenes I’ve read and definitely fitting to the characters and the premise. But I was left with so much confusion because this was jam packed with a lot of backstory and so much world-building but it was also vague and it affected my enjoyment of the novella. I do plan to pick up the next book, CAGED WARRIOR but I really hope it avoids the pitfalls of this story and expands on the world-building.
I give Silent Warrior a C-
MinnChica: All in all I was disappointed by Silent Warrior. I hoped for something a little more cohesive in the world-building. Like Has, for me, the best part was the romance. I still wanted something more, especially since their happily ever after seemed to be something no one would want – more time in the Cage. I will most likely pick up the next book in the series, but I’m hoping that it doesn’t fall into the same problems that this novella did.
I give Silent Warrior a C-
Has: Silence is a caged warrior and is collared by a clan called the Asters which she follows their orders in capturing other Dragon Warriors and other errands. SIlence also dabbles in cage fighting which helps her to release some pent up steam and to help her own personal quest to find an icon which was lost centuries ago. But during one mission she enters a cage match that has a fellow Dragon Warrior from the same clan as hers and she finds herself opening up to him even though her past made her closed off to others for so long.
When I first came across this series I was instantly intrigued by the premise of cage fighting warriors in a dark and dystopic world. However, in this prequel which introduces The Dragon King warriors, I was pretty confused about the world-building and the setting although I loved the gritty and dark tone which permeates throughout the novella. However although the main story and romance was fast pace and I enjoyed the love the story, the problem for me was trying to understand the rules of the world-building and the setting. I had to reread a few passages and even then some aspects of it such as the different classes of warrior dragons were vague. I was also left wondering about the world, was this modern or post apocalyptic, and what time period was it set. Yet the most important element of the story was the nature of the Dragon Warriors, they were set up as paranormal beings with healing powers and certain magical talents linked with their classes. I think I figured out the major aspects of the world-building, but I was left with a lot of questions and I wanted more clarification about the premise because it was interesting. It was semi-disappointing that I had so much trouble trying to figure things out.
MinnChica: I was really excited about the series. What’s not to love about supernatural underground cage fighters? However, for me the execution just didn’t really work. I was really confused about the world-building and was conflicted about how I felt about this book. On one hand, I was drawn in by the nitty gritty world that Piper created. It was dark and devious and I liked that. On the other hand, I was so confused about what was going on, who was who, what the Dragon Kings really are, what the Clans represent, and many of big factors to the world itself. When I closed the ebook, I was left with more questions than when I started, and that left a bit of a sour taste in my mouth.
Has: And that sums up how I feel about the too. I loved the grittiness and stark tone and the romance was fun and sexy which balanced out the darkness. I also enjoyed Silence who was stoic and quiet and how that would unnerve her opponents when she is engaging them in the cage fights and yet Hark who is the opposite broke through her walls. I also loved the scene where he got her to admit her real name, which was my favourite scene in the book. I also liked that he was such a hyper and snarky chatterbox and their chemistry really gelled because they were such opposites and it was enjoyable to see them interacting.
MinnChica: I liked the romance a little, but it as much as I wanted it to work, there was something missing there as well. I liked the way their romance developed over the course of the whole book, and that it didn’t feel rushed. The attraction between Silence and Hark was obvious, and I thought their sexy times were just that, very sexy. Like Has said, the difference between Hark and his talkative ways and Silence and her quiet manner was a wonderful juxtaposition. I liked the Dragon Kings ceremony of “mating” and hope we get to see more of that in future books.
Has: I found the romance the strongest aspect of the book, and although I really liked the tone of the world-building, I wished it was explained more because it was the weakest factor in the story. I have so much mixed feelings about this novella because while I liked the love story and I definitely agree the ‘mating ceremony’ was one of the most unique scenes I’ve read and definitely fitting to the characters and the premise. But I was left with so much confusion because this was jam packed with a lot of backstory and so much world-building but it was also vague and it affected my enjoyment of the novella. I do plan to pick up the next book, CAGED WARRIOR but I really hope it avoids the pitfalls of this story and expands on the world-building.
I give Silent Warrior a C-
MinnChica: All in all I was disappointed by Silent Warrior. I hoped for something a little more cohesive in the world-building. Like Has, for me, the best part was the romance. I still wanted something more, especially since their happily ever after seemed to be something no one would want – more time in the Cage. I will most likely pick up the next book in the series, but I’m hoping that it doesn’t fall into the same problems that this novella did.
I give Silent Warrior a C-
August 3, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
Once they were worshipped as gods. Now they huddle in remote clan strongholds, clinging to the remnants of demonic power as their race slowly withers into extinction. Or they sell themselves into life-long slavery for access to the human science that has figured out a way around whatever has caused the rising infertility rate. Or just to pay off gambling debts.
The Dragon Kings are not actually dragons. They’re not shapeshifters either. What they are is descendants of the beings who inspired the great myths: the Norse Gods, the Egyptian and Greek pantheons, the Celtic fae, and I suspect, the Chinese Dragons. Not that those have been named so far.
Each of the five clans has a power. One can bring the lightning, like Zeus. One can read minds. One clan has the power to take the powers of another Dragon King, for a brief time.
Of course, they aren’t all Kings. Some are Queens, but they're not called that. Even the females are kings. I'm not quite sure whether or not to be annoyed about that.
And it’s important to remember that in a lot of mythology, the gods behaved very badly.
In The Silent Warrior, the warrior is a woman who goes by the name of “Silence”, because she doesn’t speak. Not that can’t, but she won’t. Big difference. She spends her life in slavery to what is, in effect, a crime syndicate, for two reasons.
One is that she seeks redemption for the crimes that her family committed. They stole from the head of their clan, Clan Sath. Interestingly, the Sath are the thieves of the Dragon Kings. They can steal the power from another. It does have the unfortunate tendency to make them thieves of trinkets and treasures as well. Her family stole too much, and they paid the ultimate price.
But her second reason is a prophecy. She is working for the day that all the Dragon Kings can be freed from the crime syndicates, and that day is coming. Silence is biding her time, and searching for half of an idol that her family stole.
While she is out on assignment, she finds the other half of the stolen idol, in the hands of the only man who talks enough for both of them. He drives her crazy enough to make her finally talk back, after five years of silence.
If she trusts him enough to finally talk, he might be the one she can trust at her back as she fights for her life. Every single day. If he’s willing to trust her enough to go down into the dark with her.
Escape Rating B: In spite of the length, this story is pretty complete. In some ways, it is better than the novel that comes after it (Caged Warrior, reviewed later today) because Silence and Hark are equals.
The world of the Dragon Kings is harsh and brutal, and the people in it lead a bloody life filled with death and destruction. This is a story of unexpected love in a very dark place. They start out expecting a night of sweaty sex and nothing more, because that’s all their life holds.
Silence and Hark are flawed, fascinating people. They’re both terribly damaged, and yet they manage to find just enough faith in each other to make a giant leap together. I can’t even call the ending a “Happy For Now” because happy isn’t a word that applies in this world. Facing the future together, definitely and awesomely.
And Silence as a character is doubly awesome because she is unapologetically a woman warrior from the very beginning. She’s not following anyone. She’s not less. She’s not bait. She is ferocious.
I am annoyed that the book is named for her, but the cover picture is of him.
But I wish I had a few more clues about how things got to be the way they are. I’m saying this from a perspective at the end of Caged Warrior, and I’m still not sure. I’m making guesses based on other paranormals, fantasies, and real-life history, but I’m still not sure I have enough clues. And dragon? When dragon? Who dragon?
Once they were worshipped as gods. Now they huddle in remote clan strongholds, clinging to the remnants of demonic power as their race slowly withers into extinction. Or they sell themselves into life-long slavery for access to the human science that has figured out a way around whatever has caused the rising infertility rate. Or just to pay off gambling debts.
The Dragon Kings are not actually dragons. They’re not shapeshifters either. What they are is descendants of the beings who inspired the great myths: the Norse Gods, the Egyptian and Greek pantheons, the Celtic fae, and I suspect, the Chinese Dragons. Not that those have been named so far.
Each of the five clans has a power. One can bring the lightning, like Zeus. One can read minds. One clan has the power to take the powers of another Dragon King, for a brief time.
Of course, they aren’t all Kings. Some are Queens, but they're not called that. Even the females are kings. I'm not quite sure whether or not to be annoyed about that.
And it’s important to remember that in a lot of mythology, the gods behaved very badly.
In The Silent Warrior, the warrior is a woman who goes by the name of “Silence”, because she doesn’t speak. Not that can’t, but she won’t. Big difference. She spends her life in slavery to what is, in effect, a crime syndicate, for two reasons.
One is that she seeks redemption for the crimes that her family committed. They stole from the head of their clan, Clan Sath. Interestingly, the Sath are the thieves of the Dragon Kings. They can steal the power from another. It does have the unfortunate tendency to make them thieves of trinkets and treasures as well. Her family stole too much, and they paid the ultimate price.
But her second reason is a prophecy. She is working for the day that all the Dragon Kings can be freed from the crime syndicates, and that day is coming. Silence is biding her time, and searching for half of an idol that her family stole.
While she is out on assignment, she finds the other half of the stolen idol, in the hands of the only man who talks enough for both of them. He drives her crazy enough to make her finally talk back, after five years of silence.
If she trusts him enough to finally talk, he might be the one she can trust at her back as she fights for her life. Every single day. If he’s willing to trust her enough to go down into the dark with her.
Escape Rating B: In spite of the length, this story is pretty complete. In some ways, it is better than the novel that comes after it (Caged Warrior, reviewed later today) because Silence and Hark are equals.
The world of the Dragon Kings is harsh and brutal, and the people in it lead a bloody life filled with death and destruction. This is a story of unexpected love in a very dark place. They start out expecting a night of sweaty sex and nothing more, because that’s all their life holds.
Silence and Hark are flawed, fascinating people. They’re both terribly damaged, and yet they manage to find just enough faith in each other to make a giant leap together. I can’t even call the ending a “Happy For Now” because happy isn’t a word that applies in this world. Facing the future together, definitely and awesomely.
And Silence as a character is doubly awesome because she is unapologetically a woman warrior from the very beginning. She’s not following anyone. She’s not less. She’s not bait. She is ferocious.
I am annoyed that the book is named for her, but the cover picture is of him.
But I wish I had a few more clues about how things got to be the way they are. I’m saying this from a perspective at the end of Caged Warrior, and I’m still not sure. I’m making guesses based on other paranormals, fantasies, and real-life history, but I’m still not sure I have enough clues. And dragon? When dragon? Who dragon?
November 18, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Silence and Hark fall in love in a significantly better book than the first of The Dragon Kings series.
Opening Sentence: “This is not going well.”
The Review:
Hark and Silence first meet on the streets of Hong Kong, in a fight that will change their lives. Both have dark pasts, both have regrets, and both are bonded in this quick novella that takes barely any time to read. It starts as a fight in a bar, and it becomes a romance that will never change without disastrous consequences.
First, let’s talk about the characters. Hark of Sath and Silence (AKA Orla) are both Dragon Kings, or those that look like humans but really have powers, depending on their heritage and what clan they are of. Silence was the character that was more engaging, because she had that air of mystery that will make you want to know more. Hath was the character that never stopped talking, which is ironic because Silence is, well . . . silent, until she meets Hark. Both characters had redeeming qualities, and I didn’t see any problems with them.
I didn’t have high expectations after reading Caged Warrior, because quite bluntly, I did not enjoy that book. This, however, has a more positive review because of the main problems I had with Caged Warrior are either eradicated or not important here. I was confused in Caged Warrior and in Silent Warrior I was not, although it helped that I read the first book beforehand. I thought the first book took too long. In this installment of the series, it was more brief and to the point.
This eBook has action, romance, and humor, so to sum it up, I thought it was a good book. Nothing life changing, so not deserving of the five star title, but still worth your time if you enjoyed Caged Warrior! Read Caged Warrior first. I repeat, read it first! It helps so much with the clarity of the plot and such, so please read it first. Give it a try!
Notable Scene:
The tall, gracefully thin woman rose to her feet. Blood trickled down the back of her injured ankle. She walked with a slight limp, but nothing about her posture suggested it was time to call it quits. Her skin held the golden sheen of their people-the appearance of tan no matter the exposure to sun-yet the lights leached her color. With white-blonde hair, she was pale on pale with the flashes of black fire in her eyes.
And she was collared.
At one time in her past, or maybe even now, she belonged to one of three human cartels that traded in the flesh and brawn of Dragon Kings. The collar meant that her gift as a Sath-to borrow the abilities of other Dragon Kings-was dampened. She needed to fight like a human, no matter her people’s remarkable capacity for recovering from physical injury.
FTC Advisory: Pocket Books /Simon and Schuster provided me with a copy of Silent Warrior. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Silence and Hark fall in love in a significantly better book than the first of The Dragon Kings series.
Opening Sentence: “This is not going well.”
The Review:
Hark and Silence first meet on the streets of Hong Kong, in a fight that will change their lives. Both have dark pasts, both have regrets, and both are bonded in this quick novella that takes barely any time to read. It starts as a fight in a bar, and it becomes a romance that will never change without disastrous consequences.
First, let’s talk about the characters. Hark of Sath and Silence (AKA Orla) are both Dragon Kings, or those that look like humans but really have powers, depending on their heritage and what clan they are of. Silence was the character that was more engaging, because she had that air of mystery that will make you want to know more. Hath was the character that never stopped talking, which is ironic because Silence is, well . . . silent, until she meets Hark. Both characters had redeeming qualities, and I didn’t see any problems with them.
I didn’t have high expectations after reading Caged Warrior, because quite bluntly, I did not enjoy that book. This, however, has a more positive review because of the main problems I had with Caged Warrior are either eradicated or not important here. I was confused in Caged Warrior and in Silent Warrior I was not, although it helped that I read the first book beforehand. I thought the first book took too long. In this installment of the series, it was more brief and to the point.
This eBook has action, romance, and humor, so to sum it up, I thought it was a good book. Nothing life changing, so not deserving of the five star title, but still worth your time if you enjoyed Caged Warrior! Read Caged Warrior first. I repeat, read it first! It helps so much with the clarity of the plot and such, so please read it first. Give it a try!
Notable Scene:
The tall, gracefully thin woman rose to her feet. Blood trickled down the back of her injured ankle. She walked with a slight limp, but nothing about her posture suggested it was time to call it quits. Her skin held the golden sheen of their people-the appearance of tan no matter the exposure to sun-yet the lights leached her color. With white-blonde hair, she was pale on pale with the flashes of black fire in her eyes.
And she was collared.
At one time in her past, or maybe even now, she belonged to one of three human cartels that traded in the flesh and brawn of Dragon Kings. The collar meant that her gift as a Sath-to borrow the abilities of other Dragon Kings-was dampened. She needed to fight like a human, no matter her people’s remarkable capacity for recovering from physical injury.
FTC Advisory: Pocket Books /Simon and Schuster provided me with a copy of Silent Warrior. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
September 2, 2013
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I have already read Caged Warrior and I actually recommend reading that book first before reading this novella. Silent Warrior can't go into details like a full length novel, but you will need those details to fully understand everything. Otherwise you will be quite frustrated because some things like the Five Clans and the cartels won't make much sense to you.
Hark and Silence first meet while fighting each other. They are both of the Clan Sath, which means they can borrow powers from other Dragon Kings. In this case it means they are evenly matched and they have to depend on their regular fighting skills to win the match. Now Silence is exactly that, silence. No matter what Hark throws at her, she doesn't make a sound. Even facial expressions are a rarity and those are only way to know what she's thinking. The girl isn't mute, but there is a reason she doesn't talk.
Hark on the other hand doesn't know the word silence. The guy doesn't shut up for five seconds. Using words to drive people nuts and distract them, helps him survive. He is amazing, the things that come out of his mouth are funny, provoking and very witty, making it a very enjoyable read.
They both have secrets they don't want to share, but for the immediate future they will need each other's help to survive. Hark is the first guy to make Silence speak in five year. He somehow gets to her and she doesn't understand, because his constantly babbling makes her head hurt. Still she can't deny the obvious physical attraction.
Besides getting physical closer, they also get emotionally closer. Still they practically have to drag it out of each other. Both are so keen on their secrets they will only tell it once, never to be spoken of again. It's nice to see them both opening up somewhat. Hark also surprises me by being so tender and sweetly serious at times, when usually he's all about being funny and keeping things superficial.
It couldn't have been that easy for Lindsey Piper to write about a character that doesn't speak. The entire conversation ratio between Hark and Silence, is something like four to one. But the lack of talking from one character does get made up by the word vomit of the other character.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this. I think Hark is a wonderful character and I would love to read more about him. Silence still stays kind of a mystery for me, but that's part of her attraction I guess. I do think you are going to like it more if you read this after you've read Caged Warrior.
For more reviews and other book news you can always visit my blog :)
I have already read Caged Warrior and I actually recommend reading that book first before reading this novella. Silent Warrior can't go into details like a full length novel, but you will need those details to fully understand everything. Otherwise you will be quite frustrated because some things like the Five Clans and the cartels won't make much sense to you.
Hark and Silence first meet while fighting each other. They are both of the Clan Sath, which means they can borrow powers from other Dragon Kings. In this case it means they are evenly matched and they have to depend on their regular fighting skills to win the match. Now Silence is exactly that, silence. No matter what Hark throws at her, she doesn't make a sound. Even facial expressions are a rarity and those are only way to know what she's thinking. The girl isn't mute, but there is a reason she doesn't talk.
Hark on the other hand doesn't know the word silence. The guy doesn't shut up for five seconds. Using words to drive people nuts and distract them, helps him survive. He is amazing, the things that come out of his mouth are funny, provoking and very witty, making it a very enjoyable read.
They both have secrets they don't want to share, but for the immediate future they will need each other's help to survive. Hark is the first guy to make Silence speak in five year. He somehow gets to her and she doesn't understand, because his constantly babbling makes her head hurt. Still she can't deny the obvious physical attraction.
Besides getting physical closer, they also get emotionally closer. Still they practically have to drag it out of each other. Both are so keen on their secrets they will only tell it once, never to be spoken of again. It's nice to see them both opening up somewhat. Hark also surprises me by being so tender and sweetly serious at times, when usually he's all about being funny and keeping things superficial.
It couldn't have been that easy for Lindsey Piper to write about a character that doesn't speak. The entire conversation ratio between Hark and Silence, is something like four to one. But the lack of talking from one character does get made up by the word vomit of the other character.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this. I think Hark is a wonderful character and I would love to read more about him. Silence still stays kind of a mystery for me, but that's part of her attraction I guess. I do think you are going to like it more if you read this after you've read Caged Warrior.
For more reviews and other book news you can always visit my blog :)
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