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The Dragon Prince Chronicles #3
Trail of Assassins
Pain is inescapable, storms brew, and the darkness only seems to grow as the light shrivels.
After an assassination attempt on the newly crowned prince leaves Kahtan with lingering side effects, he wonders if he’ll ever make it home. Death seems to be on every wind, and with the Mazleahian army dwindling by the day, allies are needed in the ever-encroaching war. But the journey to Half-Gale with assassins and the Dragon Prince on their trail is no easy feat.
Bonds will be formed, truth will come to light, and sorrow will threaten to drown them. But if they hope to keep Prince Merickson on the throne all of them will have to search their hearts and answer the question, “How much are they willing to give?"
After an assassination attempt on the newly crowned prince leaves Kahtan with lingering side effects, he wonders if he’ll ever make it home. Death seems to be on every wind, and with the Mazleahian army dwindling by the day, allies are needed in the ever-encroaching war. But the journey to Half-Gale with assassins and the Dragon Prince on their trail is no easy feat.
Bonds will be formed, truth will come to light, and sorrow will threaten to drown them. But if they hope to keep Prince Merickson on the throne all of them will have to search their hearts and answer the question, “How much are they willing to give?"
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 6, 2024
57 people want to read
About the author
Kaytlin Phillips
17 books250 followersKaytlin Phillips is a homeschool grad who spends her days praising her Savior, reading, writing, blogging, and annoying her sisters with random thoughts. She is the fifth child out of seven and resides in the Southern Appalachian foothills of Western North Carolina.
She believes in the power of stories and their ability to change lives. And when not writing stories of hope, purpose, and redemption, you can find Kayti (as everyone calls her) reading, hiking, or taking random pictures.
Connect with Kayti at www.sisters-three.com
or on Instagram @sisters_three_press
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
She believes in the power of stories and their ability to change lives. And when not writing stories of hope, purpose, and redemption, you can find Kayti (as everyone calls her) reading, hiking, or taking random pictures.
Connect with Kayti at www.sisters-three.com
or on Instagram @sisters_three_press
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
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September 6, 2024IT'S HERE! Book 3 in The Dragon Prince Chronicles is out in the world!
Amazon link: https://a.co/d/4tvlUq0
Kaytlin, Marisa, & Jaiden Phillips (aka Sisters Three)
Amazon link: https://a.co/d/4tvlUq0
Kaytlin, Marisa, & Jaiden Phillips (aka Sisters Three)
December 19, 2024
4 stars. It’s been such a while since I read books 1-2 that I didn’t remember what was going on, which led to some confusion at the fast-paced beginning. ;) But I quickly fell back into this wonderful world of adventure! I love being with the delightful old gang again, and they were soooo much fun to watch grow. I’m so glad Khatan is finally doing some healing, dealing with his issues, etc; and I hope Gavin is next, because that boy drives me UP THE WALL SOMETIMES. (The king had some real good points for him.) I was also very surprised by M’s arc <3 and I am thrilled by the new additions to the cast. The plot is progressing fast and I am so eager to see where this is going and what the finality of it all will be… Once more a solid MG Christian fantasy with awesome world building and character creation. :)
Content: lots of people die in fires.
A Favourite Quote: “Because sometimes He works the mightiest deeds through the most insignificant of people.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: Because war was coming. If one stood still long enough, he could feel it charging in the air. Or hear its calls on the keening winds and its whispers in the very heather beneath his feet.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Tis a bonnie sight, is it nae?” Sage asked, flopping his arm across Kahtan’s shoulders. “Ah, tis braw tae be comin’ home, it is.”
“You have never, not even for one day of your life, lived in Half-Gale, Sage.” Gaven chuckled and shook his head.
“How would ye ken? I could hae lived here as a babbie, could hae been born ‘ere for all ye ken, Gavie.” Sage lifted his chin and sucked in a deep breath of the salty air. “Besides, I ken feel in me bones thon I is home, mate.” ….
“Where is everyone?” Abbiana asked as she glanced between the crofts.
“At the chieftain's house,” Master Finnick said, nodding toward the center of the village. “It’s a full moon.”
“What happens at full moon, Sage?” Silena asked.
Sage shrugged. “I donnae ken, I’s lived in Mazleah all me life.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Content: lots of people die in fires.
A Favourite Quote: “Because sometimes He works the mightiest deeds through the most insignificant of people.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: Because war was coming. If one stood still long enough, he could feel it charging in the air. Or hear its calls on the keening winds and its whispers in the very heather beneath his feet.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Tis a bonnie sight, is it nae?” Sage asked, flopping his arm across Kahtan’s shoulders. “Ah, tis braw tae be comin’ home, it is.”
“You have never, not even for one day of your life, lived in Half-Gale, Sage.” Gaven chuckled and shook his head.
“How would ye ken? I could hae lived here as a babbie, could hae been born ‘ere for all ye ken, Gavie.” Sage lifted his chin and sucked in a deep breath of the salty air. “Besides, I ken feel in me bones thon I is home, mate.” ….
“Where is everyone?” Abbiana asked as she glanced between the crofts.
“At the chieftain's house,” Master Finnick said, nodding toward the center of the village. “It’s a full moon.”
“What happens at full moon, Sage?” Silena asked.
Sage shrugged. “I donnae ken, I’s lived in Mazleah all me life.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
September 13, 2024
4.5 Stars
What I liked: As always, the glossary is super helpful! (Petition to have glossaries in all fantasy books?) I loved Kahtan's feelings on faith and how long it took him to process everything. I feel like that's very realistic, and not something you see much in books nowadays. His internal struggles are so real and his jealousy problem is very relatable. This was probably the best book so far thematically.
I love all the characters, all the banter, and the SHIPS! And those songs that Sage and Nark sing were pure gold.
The writing and descriptions always amaze me, too!! There were a lot of plot twists and that really helped to keep me hooked.
What I didn't like: There were a few editing things that made it hard to understand at times. I think there is a lot of focus on Kahtan and he seems to be the only one with struggles or injuries, which can get annoying. And I am wondering how old everyone is, because it seems like they're young teens, but that doesn't really make sense for how important their roles are.
Overall, this was a great addition to the series and I NEED the next book, please!!
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
"I may not have chosen to be a soldier, but I have chosen to use my life to protect yours because I care about the future of Mazleah. Which is you, Gaven."
What I liked: As always, the glossary is super helpful! (Petition to have glossaries in all fantasy books?) I loved Kahtan's feelings on faith and how long it took him to process everything. I feel like that's very realistic, and not something you see much in books nowadays. His internal struggles are so real and his jealousy problem is very relatable. This was probably the best book so far thematically.
I love all the characters, all the banter, and the SHIPS! And those songs that Sage and Nark sing were pure gold.
The writing and descriptions always amaze me, too!! There were a lot of plot twists and that really helped to keep me hooked.
What I didn't like: There were a few editing things that made it hard to understand at times. I think there is a lot of focus on Kahtan and he seems to be the only one with struggles or injuries, which can get annoying. And I am wondering how old everyone is, because it seems like they're young teens, but that doesn't really make sense for how important their roles are.
Overall, this was a great addition to the series and I NEED the next book, please!!
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
September 6, 2024
This book is so AMAZING! I absolutely love it! I can't wait to read the rest of the series, and I REALLY hope the next book comes out soon! I highly recommend this book.
September 1, 2024
Eeeeeeekkkkkk!!!! I’m gonna scream! Literally!!! More? More?!????? 😱 😱 😱 help help help! Alright… *takes a breath* I think it’s so very sad about Maisley! Please…please tell me….how many books will there be???? How much longer must I wait for this…this…ending!!! Please please don’t die Gaven/Merickson!!!!!!!
I love that Khatan finally got saved!!!! I absolutely loved this series, Kaitlyn, Jaiden, and Marissa!!!! Thanks for allowing me to read the ARC for this!!! These are all my plain, natural very own thoughts!!! I’m terrible at these because I can’t seem to recall any particular part in the story but can say, I LOVE it!!!! Read it!!! It’s totally worth it!!!
I love that Khatan finally got saved!!!! I absolutely loved this series, Kaitlyn, Jaiden, and Marissa!!!! Thanks for allowing me to read the ARC for this!!! These are all my plain, natural very own thoughts!!! I’m terrible at these because I can’t seem to recall any particular part in the story but can say, I LOVE it!!!! Read it!!! It’s totally worth it!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
I am so in love with this story and these characters, and I was so happy to dive back into this fantastical world and journey with one of my favorite gang of characters!
This next installment in the Dragon Prince Chronicles is the best yet in its series, filled with fast-paced, high-stakes action scenes, danger, sorrow, suspense, and a dash of romance! The character growth is so wonderful to see (especially with our main character, Kahtan!), and I love all of their different personalities and how they come together to make such a fun group! The banter that would sometimes ensue would make me smile so wide, and even being in a public place couldn't dissuade my reaction. XD
The spiritual aspect was brought out even more in this book, which I found really lovely. The lesson of trusting God even when something terrible has happened and you can't find any rational explanation for it was strongly brought out, and it made my heart ache and soften in just the right measures.
There were some minor grammar/editing errors sprinkled throughout, but nothing where I couldn't understand what was being said, and not enough to bring down my rating.
I think the Dragon Prince Chronicles is my favorite middle-grade fantasy series, so I can't help but say I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy, good vs. evil, a group of boys who become like brothers, light and humorous moments intermingled with a more serious overarching plot, and . . . angst, so much angst. XD
Anyway, I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book! As soon as I finish calming down my emotions over what I've just finished reading. ;)
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the authors. I was not required to write a positive review; all thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
This next installment in the Dragon Prince Chronicles is the best yet in its series, filled with fast-paced, high-stakes action scenes, danger, sorrow, suspense, and a dash of romance! The character growth is so wonderful to see (especially with our main character, Kahtan!), and I love all of their different personalities and how they come together to make such a fun group! The banter that would sometimes ensue would make me smile so wide, and even being in a public place couldn't dissuade my reaction. XD
The spiritual aspect was brought out even more in this book, which I found really lovely. The lesson of trusting God even when something terrible has happened and you can't find any rational explanation for it was strongly brought out, and it made my heart ache and soften in just the right measures.
There were some minor grammar/editing errors sprinkled throughout, but nothing where I couldn't understand what was being said, and not enough to bring down my rating.
I think the Dragon Prince Chronicles is my favorite middle-grade fantasy series, so I can't help but say I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy, good vs. evil, a group of boys who become like brothers, light and humorous moments intermingled with a more serious overarching plot, and . . . angst, so much angst. XD
Anyway, I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book! As soon as I finish calming down my emotions over what I've just finished reading. ;)
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the authors. I was not required to write a positive review; all thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
September 7, 2024
They're at it again! Danger and mayhem are dogging out brother band's steps, but they still manage to give us moments of laughter amid the tears. I cannot express just how fond I've grown over the crew, and have both high expectation as well as trepidation for the final battle!! Onward to honor and victory!
September 21, 2024
4.5 Stars, rounded up.
Content Rating: 5/5
Theme Rating: 5/5 may be my favorite part!
Age Rating: 11-12+ There's not much objectionable content, just fighting, battles, good vs evil, etc, but it's definitely YA and some of the themes are definitely easier for older kids to grasp.
Ummm.... that ending!!!!! I'm not sure how much of a coherent review this will be after what I just read... but I'll do my best.
Okay, some of the twists in this book were just completely mind-blowing. There were slow times of character development and such followed by fast-paced, high tension times, and it was really well balanced. Some certain things caught me way off-guard in a good sort of way. It was also really cool to get to see more of the world!
The character development and the faith were where this book shone.😍 So much character growth, and it was also so fun to see character relationships grow as well. ;-) I can't discuss anything in details without spoilers, so bewarned of the rest of this review.
Overall, this was a great book that I really enjoyed, full of great character development and interactions, and I'll be looking forward to the final book in the series!!
Thank you so much to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review. :-) And so sorry for how late this is!
Content Rating: 5/5
Theme Rating: 5/5 may be my favorite part!
Age Rating: 11-12+ There's not much objectionable content, just fighting, battles, good vs evil, etc, but it's definitely YA and some of the themes are definitely easier for older kids to grasp.
Ummm.... that ending!!!!! I'm not sure how much of a coherent review this will be after what I just read... but I'll do my best.
Okay, some of the twists in this book were just completely mind-blowing. There were slow times of character development and such followed by fast-paced, high tension times, and it was really well balanced. Some certain things caught me way off-guard in a good sort of way. It was also really cool to get to see more of the world!
The character development and the faith were where this book shone.😍 So much character growth, and it was also so fun to see character relationships grow as well. ;-) I can't discuss anything in details without spoilers, so bewarned of the rest of this review.
Overall, this was a great book that I really enjoyed, full of great character development and interactions, and I'll be looking forward to the final book in the series!!
Thank you so much to the authors for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review. :-) And so sorry for how late this is!
September 28, 2024
Another wonderful continuation of the Dragon Prince Chronicles! I just love the dynamic in this brotherhood of lads (and the sweet friendships starting with the girls as well). Their characters and personalities have all grown so beautifully as their story progresses. I loved the addition of Reya and am excited to see what part she plays in the future.
The main theme I see here in this is this:
No matter how dark the darkness.
No matter how heavy the pain is.
Rely on your Creator
Stick with your brothers.
The going is easier with a brother to lean on.
Always remember, life is no solo mission!
The main theme I see here in this is this:
No matter how dark the darkness.
No matter how heavy the pain is.
Rely on your Creator
Stick with your brothers.
The going is easier with a brother to lean on.
Always remember, life is no solo mission!
September 17, 2024
A riveting installation to The Dragon Prince Chronicles that you won't want to put down!
This story is richly veined with suspense, plot twists, and vibrant worldbuilding, but what really makes this series shine are the CHARACTERS. The whole beloved gang is back and their distinct personalities combined (sometimes combustible) make for such an exciting, engaging read. Gaven with his polished, serious demeanor, Sage with his silly antics, Nark with his good-natured humor, Wixley with his blunt statements, Kahtan with his moodiness and grumpiness—all their resulting banter is absolute GOLD. The girls—Silena, Maisley, Abbiana (and a new one, Reya!) add a lot to the group, some trying to be peacemakers (some...the opposite *smirks*) between the boys and give some semblance of good manners and politeness. :P The relationships are wonderfully nuanced and make for many laugh-out-loud, and some sweet, tender moments.
Meanwhile Master Finnick keeps everyone in track. 😜
I really fell in love with the fantasy world—it's so well developed and it springs to life as the characters interact with it! It was one of my favorites things about reading this book. The strong writing paints a vivid image in my mind, and I can easily picture it as I read. (I was left with the thought that I just want to spend a few days in Half-Gale. Maybe skip the cliff-climbing part, but I could just SEE the sunset when they scaled the top. *happy sigh*)
The spiritual themes are much more prevalent in Trail of Assassins as Kahtan starts to thaw and understand/accept Master Finnick's advice more (trying to say this without spoilers lol). Kahtan's character arc is so intertwined with his *spiritual* arc, which is completely true to life, so no wonder he's still knee-deep in his (INCREDIBLY RELATABLE) struggles since he's been trying to handle all his pain and darkness without the Creator. 💔 The slow progression is believable and more powerful. HOWEVER, a lot of pivotal things happen in this book, though, so for those of you who have been waiting for him to face his issues and find peace, don't give up hope. ;)
As for any critiques, I read an ARC copy so some minor details may have been changed, but there were grammatical errors/typos (though nothing I couldn't understand). And since Kahtan, as the main POV character, is so deeply in his head most of the thing, the bleak outlook on life does get repetitive. However, he suffers so much heartbreak in this book especially (along with injuries!) that it's not only understandable, his moodiness is expected (even more so in light of his rather glass-half-empty personality). And since we're stuck in his head, that's what we get. That said, with the pivotal events of TOA, he's steadily changing and growing, and though it may err on the side of repetitive, it doesn't feel quite *stagnant*.
I loved reading Trail of Assassins, and when I tell you I'd missed the ol' gang I MEAN IT. I recommend it to all who loved the previous books (spoiler alert: you'll love this one even more!), to everyone who has a secret fondness for wholesome "boy books" about boys and yet not only for boys only. There's fantasy adventure, banter, relatable struggles, and a strong backbone of Biblical themes (along with a cute dash of romance for the gals!). If you love any of those, you'll love Trail of Assassins!
Although a warning is in order: brace yourself. And have tissues ready. 🙃
DISCLAIMER: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
This story is richly veined with suspense, plot twists, and vibrant worldbuilding, but what really makes this series shine are the CHARACTERS. The whole beloved gang is back and their distinct personalities combined (sometimes combustible) make for such an exciting, engaging read. Gaven with his polished, serious demeanor, Sage with his silly antics, Nark with his good-natured humor, Wixley with his blunt statements, Kahtan with his moodiness and grumpiness—all their resulting banter is absolute GOLD. The girls—Silena, Maisley, Abbiana (and a new one, Reya!) add a lot to the group, some trying to be peacemakers (some...the opposite *smirks*) between the boys and give some semblance of good manners and politeness. :P The relationships are wonderfully nuanced and make for many laugh-out-loud, and some sweet, tender moments.
Meanwhile Master Finnick keeps everyone in track. 😜
I really fell in love with the fantasy world—it's so well developed and it springs to life as the characters interact with it! It was one of my favorites things about reading this book. The strong writing paints a vivid image in my mind, and I can easily picture it as I read. (I was left with the thought that I just want to spend a few days in Half-Gale. Maybe skip the cliff-climbing part, but I could just SEE the sunset when they scaled the top. *happy sigh*)
The spiritual themes are much more prevalent in Trail of Assassins as Kahtan starts to thaw and understand/accept Master Finnick's advice more (trying to say this without spoilers lol). Kahtan's character arc is so intertwined with his *spiritual* arc, which is completely true to life, so no wonder he's still knee-deep in his (INCREDIBLY RELATABLE) struggles since he's been trying to handle all his pain and darkness without the Creator. 💔 The slow progression is believable and more powerful. HOWEVER, a lot of pivotal things happen in this book, though, so for those of you who have been waiting for him to face his issues and find peace, don't give up hope. ;)
As for any critiques, I read an ARC copy so some minor details may have been changed, but there were grammatical errors/typos (though nothing I couldn't understand). And since Kahtan, as the main POV character, is so deeply in his head most of the thing, the bleak outlook on life does get repetitive. However, he suffers so much heartbreak in this book especially (along with injuries!) that it's not only understandable, his moodiness is expected (even more so in light of his rather glass-half-empty personality). And since we're stuck in his head, that's what we get. That said, with the pivotal events of TOA, he's steadily changing and growing, and though it may err on the side of repetitive, it doesn't feel quite *stagnant*.
I loved reading Trail of Assassins, and when I tell you I'd missed the ol' gang I MEAN IT. I recommend it to all who loved the previous books (spoiler alert: you'll love this one even more!), to everyone who has a secret fondness for wholesome "boy books" about boys and yet not only for boys only. There's fantasy adventure, banter, relatable struggles, and a strong backbone of Biblical themes (along with a cute dash of romance for the gals!). If you love any of those, you'll love Trail of Assassins!
Although a warning is in order: brace yourself. And have tissues ready. 🙃
DISCLAIMER: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
March 13, 2025
For some reason, I thought this was the final book in the series.
Imagine my shock when, around the last page, I realized it was not in fact the final book.
There’s so much going on in this story! I read the whole thing in one day, eager to find out what happened next. There’s so much action, lots of great character development, and some fun plot twists! I can’t wait for the next installment.
Recommended for ages 10+!
Imagine my shock when, around the last page, I realized it was not in fact the final book.
There’s so much going on in this story! I read the whole thing in one day, eager to find out what happened next. There’s so much action, lots of great character development, and some fun plot twists! I can’t wait for the next installment.
Recommended for ages 10+!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews