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The Ashes Saga #2
A Thirst for Vengeance, Part 2
My name is Dagan. There are few alive with more blood on their hands than me.
I have lived a life of degeneracy. I have studied the teachings of the dark mage Helosis and walked the path of the dead. I have been to the shadowrealm and emerged with my soul intact. I have challenged the Black Brotherhood and ridden with the Knights of Valamor as a brother-in-arms. I have spoken to Xune.
My name is Dagan. This is my tale.
...Thus began the story of one man's life. Now, in A Thirst for Vengeance, Part 2, that story continues.
Rebellion is brewing in the heart of Hallengard. As Dagan seeks purpose in the aftermath of his mentor's death, he finds himself caught in the cross-hairs of a powerful foe. Desperation leads him to the most dangerous of havens: the Black Brotherhood. There, he discovers a place rife with corruption and deceit... and learns of a horrifying conspiracy centered around him.
I have lived a life of degeneracy. I have studied the teachings of the dark mage Helosis and walked the path of the dead. I have been to the shadowrealm and emerged with my soul intact. I have challenged the Black Brotherhood and ridden with the Knights of Valamor as a brother-in-arms. I have spoken to Xune.
My name is Dagan. This is my tale.
...Thus began the story of one man's life. Now, in A Thirst for Vengeance, Part 2, that story continues.
Rebellion is brewing in the heart of Hallengard. As Dagan seeks purpose in the aftermath of his mentor's death, he finds himself caught in the cross-hairs of a powerful foe. Desperation leads him to the most dangerous of havens: the Black Brotherhood. There, he discovers a place rife with corruption and deceit... and learns of a horrifying conspiracy centered around him.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2014
14 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Edward M. Knight
2 books59 followersSomething witty and clever should fill this space soon..
For now, all I've got to say (and all that anybody reading this should be interested in) is that I'm working on the second book of The Ashes Saga as we speak, and am eyeing a late May/early June release date.
Get a release day email here:
http://www.edwardmknight.com/mailing-...
For now, all I've got to say (and all that anybody reading this should be interested in) is that I'm working on the second book of The Ashes Saga as we speak, and am eyeing a late May/early June release date.
Get a release day email here:
http://www.edwardmknight.com/mailing-...
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 19, 2014
“Regret is a poison every bit as malicious as revenge.”
Edward Knight’s second book in the Ashes Saga picks up where we left off, with Dagan wandering around the city with no purpose, only a past fire to guide his way. But that aimless shamble doesn’t stop him. He watches men get killed in broad daylight, as if time has stopped, and he is filled with not dread or worry, but a wish to do just that. Dagan decides he’s going to learn a bit more about magic and about the Black Brotherhood. On his own.
However, curiosity is a dangerous thing.
One coincidence leads to another, and the boy whose idol broke away from the Black Brotherhood joins it. And I think this unclear motivation is the biggest waste. Dagan is not in it for revenge. I don’t agree that he’s in it against his will. I think the crux of the matter is a far deeper and more personal thing. I think Dagan joins the Black Brotherhood because he wants power. He saw what their leader could do; he saw the power his previous mentor could wield, and he’s heard about the ability of Helios, their founder.
He wants control. But Knight never tells us this.
“But the desire for power is a truly wicked thing. Once you get your first taste, a foreign thirst comes to life within you. Those who succumb to it are the damned. Theirs is an unquenchable thirst.”
Instead, he focuses on Dagan’s pitiful minutiae. Repetition is the name of the game. Doesn’t matter if something important happened five pages back, something we couldn’t forget. It’s going to get repeated so we don’t.
This approach is annoying to say the least. Many paragraphs could’ve been cut without any harm done. There is way too much repetition going on here; Knight holds your hand, worried that you’ll forget Dagan’s dark and dreary past.
Or maybe it’s just a simple bit of telling rather than showing. Yes, that frustration continues into the second. As does the clichés.
While Knight has managed to distance himself from Rothfuss this time around, he instead draws from everyday tropes: school bullies that after the hero wins the fight, they become his best friend; the evil teacher that tortures the hero; the religion that is evil beyond question, and the corrupt church; and my personal favorite, the unoriginal name for towers, the Eyrie.
I mean, how hard is it for the protagonist to find friends easily, to have respectable teachers that aren’t trying to kill the idiot of a narrator, or to have a church that isn’t solely bad? Granted, all of these are harder than creating a new word, but that’s not the point. Originality is dead. But when you throw in everything you can to show this world is terrible, that the hero had a rough life, and focus on the clichés of this particular story arc, then do I find it irksome.
The Eyrie was just the icing on the cake.
“A story grows in the telling.”
However, while Knight’s second book had more problems than his debut, there was a lot I did enjoy.
The cast and characterization was stronger. There were varied people littered here and there, and that was a nice change from the three or four we saw from the first. On the flipside, Dagan is a bigger ass than before. Not only does his flippant, casual asides break tension, they show how much of a pompous, unsympathetic idiot he is.
Knight is trying to be too serious, too brooding and mopey, and fails to remember that the reader is intelligent. I don’t need to be told this when I want to see it for myself.
On this regard, Knight does do a good job of flexing the magic system about. While we don’t get a detailed description of the inner workings, we do see more, and that’s a fresh change. Right now, the magic here is wild yet solid, and that’s not something I’ve read about with this new wave of structured, scientific fantasy going around.
But it does need more consequences and prices. Growing scales is not a real problem, I think. Dagan is said to be one of the best sorcerers in the world, and yet I don’t remember him being described as a reptile in the tavern.
“Do not act when your judgment is influenced by the lies of emotion.”
I think the main problem is that we have here a rushed book. It’s shorter than his debut, and littered with more mistakes than I can shake a stick at. I mean, just look at the title. Knight didn’t know what he wanted, so he threw a lot of things together and hoped they stick. When you focus on plot, it’s beneficial if you have an original one. He didn’t have that, not even at the predictable end.
If he had cut out the majority of the introspection and showed us the story thread, I think we would be looking at a better book already. But what he really needed was a fifty page subplot about the school to help round out the characters and solidify some of the twists.
A lot of it felt like pulling magic from mid-air. It didn’t feel true to character. And what’s sad is that I called every single one of them.
Not only that, but I think if Knight would focus on Dagan’s descent into darkness, maybe even show that in the framing device, he would have a bestseller on his hands. That’s something that needs to be done more often in Dark Fantasy.
And by the looks of it, I hope he pulls that off in the third. He just needs to slow down and take a harder look at his writing.
“The difference between a poison and cure often lay in the skill of the one who administered it.”
July 23, 2014
So, I really enjoyed the first book in this series. They're not all that long, but that's fine, I haven't been in the mood for a thousand page behemoth anyway. I gave the first book four stars, and grabbed this volume up as soon as I'd posted my review.
As you can see, I've dropped this second volume down a star. Frankly, this one felt a lot more rushed than the first book. Errors that I did not run across in the first book showed up in Part 2. In one case there was what appeared to be a placeholder in square brackets in referencing a kid from the previous book. There were several typos as well, that weren't the sort a spelling checker would catch (like the word card where cart was intended), but would have been caught if more care had been given to proofing (or beta reading).
I could overlook these items if the writing itself didn't seem less polished. A great deal of "to be" verbs crowded the pages. Just way too many instances of been, being, was,to be, etc. The word "look" dominated when even when other words would have evoked more emotion.
Dagon seemed less solid this time around. Perhaps the author intends for him to come across as morally untethered because his mentor no longer guides him. If so this should be made more clear. He's had enough positive connections in life at this point that he should have the capacity for empathy, and a strong sense of "murder is bad". After all, he sacrificed quite a lot in the first book to do what he thought was right (freeing the slaves). For him to suddenly waffle on the idea of assassination seems out of character. He's essentially forced to join the Black Brotherhood, so any indication that he has a choice or might be okay with murder as long as he gets to learn magic, should be quashed.
I did like some of the new characters, especially Lydia and Faran. The new nemesis is nasty, and I hope we get a better idea of why he hates Dagon so much. I'm intrigued by the activities of the church and want to understand better their relationship with the Black Brotherhood. Definitely enough threads to keep the story interesting. Once again, the cover is quite nice, but I do think the author ought to do something about the titles - just seems lazy to keep calling them the same thing, but slapping a Part 1, Part 2, etc. after them.
I will read the third book, but I hope that the author takes more time with it in order to get it back up to the quality of the first book.
As you can see, I've dropped this second volume down a star. Frankly, this one felt a lot more rushed than the first book. Errors that I did not run across in the first book showed up in Part 2. In one case there was what appeared to be a placeholder in square brackets in referencing a kid from the previous book. There were several typos as well, that weren't the sort a spelling checker would catch (like the word card where cart was intended), but would have been caught if more care had been given to proofing (or beta reading).
I could overlook these items if the writing itself didn't seem less polished. A great deal of "to be" verbs crowded the pages. Just way too many instances of been, being, was,to be, etc. The word "look" dominated when even when other words would have evoked more emotion.
Dagon seemed less solid this time around. Perhaps the author intends for him to come across as morally untethered because his mentor no longer guides him. If so this should be made more clear. He's had enough positive connections in life at this point that he should have the capacity for empathy, and a strong sense of "murder is bad". After all, he sacrificed quite a lot in the first book to do what he thought was right (freeing the slaves). For him to suddenly waffle on the idea of assassination seems out of character. He's essentially forced to join the Black Brotherhood, so any indication that he has a choice or might be okay with murder as long as he gets to learn magic, should be quashed.
I did like some of the new characters, especially Lydia and Faran. The new nemesis is nasty, and I hope we get a better idea of why he hates Dagon so much. I'm intrigued by the activities of the church and want to understand better their relationship with the Black Brotherhood. Definitely enough threads to keep the story interesting. Once again, the cover is quite nice, but I do think the author ought to do something about the titles - just seems lazy to keep calling them the same thing, but slapping a Part 1, Part 2, etc. after them.
I will read the third book, but I hope that the author takes more time with it in order to get it back up to the quality of the first book.
November 21, 2014
This book picks up right where the first left off, and I really think the two belong in one volume - they effectively are. While book 1 feels a bit lacking in direction and purpose, and is really purely stage-setting, book 2 makes good on the promise.
Part 2 brings a much higher degree of complexity, worldbuilding and intrigue to the story, and fleshes things out majorly. I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised by just how good this is, and it made clear why book 1 felt so lacking - the two should be one. I absolutely devoured this, compared to how fast I've been reading.
E.M. Knight is genuinely very talented, and I'm eager to see where the story goes from here - now that the worldbuilding is laid out, the plot's been set, and things feel alive, the cliffhanger at the end is just aching for resolution.
4/5
Part 2 brings a much higher degree of complexity, worldbuilding and intrigue to the story, and fleshes things out majorly. I was genuinely and pleasantly surprised by just how good this is, and it made clear why book 1 felt so lacking - the two should be one. I absolutely devoured this, compared to how fast I've been reading.
E.M. Knight is genuinely very talented, and I'm eager to see where the story goes from here - now that the worldbuilding is laid out, the plot's been set, and things feel alive, the cliffhanger at the end is just aching for resolution.
4/5
August 29, 2014
Part 2 is not quite up to the first book in the series, but is quite good. Think of it as a middle chapter.
It slows a bit in action. as Dagan tells of his recovery from the trauma of the fire and other critical events, but the pace soon picks up as Dagan enters a dangerous, mysterious era of his young life. I had to keep telling myself that Dagan is just a kid, even though he thinks and acts much older- but a hard life on the slum streets will cause brief childhoods.
I do not know how long this series might be, so hang on for the drive, sometimes semi- peaceful, usually fast, vicious and threatening. Enemies are not always of this world, friends are unreliable, the world is not always what it seems, either. And the hero, Dagan? He is the slow unveiling of a work in progress, growing before our eyes into someone sinister.
I enjoy it and looking forward to the next installment.
It slows a bit in action. as Dagan tells of his recovery from the trauma of the fire and other critical events, but the pace soon picks up as Dagan enters a dangerous, mysterious era of his young life. I had to keep telling myself that Dagan is just a kid, even though he thinks and acts much older- but a hard life on the slum streets will cause brief childhoods.
I do not know how long this series might be, so hang on for the drive, sometimes semi- peaceful, usually fast, vicious and threatening. Enemies are not always of this world, friends are unreliable, the world is not always what it seems, either. And the hero, Dagan? He is the slow unveiling of a work in progress, growing before our eyes into someone sinister.
I enjoy it and looking forward to the next installment.
January 22, 2017
Different presentation/writing style
The best part is this book starts were the first ended. The writing style is like an old story teller around the campfire or stove in a cabin. Painted a good picture with words. The worse is I have had these books in my to read for a long time. My mistake I THOUGHT this was a two book series! Sadly not sure there will ever be a Part 3! If I had known probably would have waited to the three year mark after this one to read or maybe NOT. Nothing against author or writing style but really not much information on time line for next book/part. Only can wait and hope life will calm so author can complete series.
The best part is this book starts were the first ended. The writing style is like an old story teller around the campfire or stove in a cabin. Painted a good picture with words. The worse is I have had these books in my to read for a long time. My mistake I THOUGHT this was a two book series! Sadly not sure there will ever be a Part 3! If I had known probably would have waited to the three year mark after this one to read or maybe NOT. Nothing against author or writing style but really not much information on time line for next book/part. Only can wait and hope life will calm so author can complete series.
July 13, 2016
One awesome journey for our MC from rags to the brotherhood. Various new variables are introduced in the book giving it more complexity and build-up. The suspense keeps building and drives me nuts at some points. The framework for the world was set up and an introduction to the politics and powers has been given in this book. I don't know where the author is leading us with these new characters and road work, I just hope it will be an awesome journey! I hope the third book releases soon!
July 21, 2014
WoW.....I am not saying it's literary perfection but this second installment is " orders of magnitude " better than the first book. They are some slow spots but in between those are some really great chapters I recommend it and look forward to the third installment they keep getting better
September 29, 2014
I like the MC , the story ,but sure seems like a very short read.
I was more disappointed with the page number than the story with the first book, but not enough to let the story hang, its a good tale and will grow with the telling.
I would recommend to reader's only after 2-3 more are out.
I was more disappointed with the page number than the story with the first book, but not enough to let the story hang, its a good tale and will grow with the telling.
I would recommend to reader's only after 2-3 more are out.
April 3, 2015
Better than the first. Still a bit short. And still a bit heavy on the "borrowing" from other sources. The Night Mother? Really? Whatever. Still interesting enough for me to keep going. And short enough that it doesn't feel like a complete waste of time.
April 12, 2015
A good read by a new author
Only the author's second book, and it's pretty good. If you're a fantasy fan, this so-far short series might keep you entertained. I know I'm looking forward to the next ebook.
Only the author's second book, and it's pretty good. If you're a fantasy fan, this so-far short series might keep you entertained. I know I'm looking forward to the next ebook.
October 29, 2016
Book 2 of the series
I don't know who y I love stories about old times and magic but I do. They hold me captive in a spell that keeps me from wanting to do anything but read until the end of the series. These are such stories.
I don't know who y I love stories about old times and magic but I do. They hold me captive in a spell that keeps me from wanting to do anything but read until the end of the series. These are such stories.
June 28, 2014
4.5 stars
Great read! So why not 5 stars? Well, in some places (not too many) there was some drag on repetition, very minor and the story truly makes up for it.
Can't wait for part three.
Great read! So why not 5 stars? Well, in some places (not too many) there was some drag on repetition, very minor and the story truly makes up for it.
Can't wait for part three.
July 13, 2014
so short...but I am definitely hooked..waiting for part 3
November 30, 2014
2nd book lived up to the hype.
February 5, 2015
I loved it loved it and loved it!! Whatever, it was too short!! Cannot wait for the next book in the series!! Very well done very well done
May 1, 2015
Review to come
September 27, 2015
Very good.
Written well with good twists in the plot. Characters are likable though actions are deemed despicable. Well written and thoughtful.
Written well with good twists in the plot. Characters are likable though actions are deemed despicable. Well written and thoughtful.
June 7, 2021
5 star - Perfect
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
4 star - i would recommend
3 star - good
2 star - struggled to complete
1 star - could not finish
November 7, 2015
Gripping tale
The second book in a series being written. Now that I have caught up, I await with great anticipation the third in this series.
The second book in a series being written. Now that I have caught up, I await with great anticipation the third in this series.
September 11, 2016
OMG. What have I done?? I thought it was a two-book series!!!
No sign of book number three... I am dying to know what happened!
No sign of book number three... I am dying to know what happened!
September 19, 2016
Re-read and waiting for part 3
Such a great series with plenty of twists and turns. Although author hasn't posted updates in a while, still waiting for promised Part 3!!
Such a great series with plenty of twists and turns. Although author hasn't posted updates in a while, still waiting for promised Part 3!!
December 28, 2016
Príbeh stratil grády, trpí klasickou chorobou stredných dielov - vypĺňa dianie medzi dvoma časťami.
June 28, 2014
Absolutely loved it, just like book 1. Only problem is now I have to wait for book 3.
July 28, 2014
Fun, but not memorable.
January 22, 2015
H
H f g ::) I g h m h o n g? G h t y u I
H e d
H f g ::) I g h m h o n g? G h t y u I
H e d
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews