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A Time of Dragons #4
Tides of Blood and War
The Last Ballad of Hope has been heard again.
A song thought buried. A promise thought broken.A few brave souls have dared to stand against evil.
A curse plaguing generations has finally shattered.
What of it?
The Dark One cannot be stopped.
After thousands of years in shadow, Skara Pendain has claimed the name as he would a crown. And with it he has gained the throne of Erador. The east has fallen. The realm of men now bends to his will… or breaks beneath it.
With Baelon Vos cast down, the Dragon Riders—once the last shield of the realm—are his to command. Their fire, their fury, an extension of his dominion. From horizon to horizon, Skara’s rule is absolute.
All but one.
In the south, the Kedradi of Qalanqath refuse to kneel. They do not hide. They do not yield. They are hunters. Drawing Skara’s armies into a trap, they prepare for a clash that will decide the fate of Verda itself. Led by Kassanda Grey and Joran Pendain, the survivors of Skara’s wrath place their faith in the few Riders who still remember their oaths…
…in those who might yet bring about a Time of Dragons.
It is only a vision.
Seen by ten thousand eyes. Paid for with ten thousand lives.
A future that could be—not one that will be.
Because the board is breaking.
While Baelon Vos searches in the dark for a relic that could turn the tide of war, and new heroes draw their line in the hot sands of Kanofell, something far older has awakened.
Something no one can command, not even Daijen Saeth.
The Dragon Lord. The first of his kind.
Malliath.
Freed from the Shadow Realm, the ancient black dragon breathes the air of Verda once more. He remembers it all.
The betrayal.
The chains.
His heart now beats to the ancient song of vengeance.
Skara must turn from conquest to survival. His throne can wait. His war cannot. For what comes next is not a battle for kingdoms…
…but a reckoning.
A duel of man and beast.
Rider against dragon.
And this time, there will be no victor.
Only Death—at last stepping onto the board, to claim them all.
A song thought buried. A promise thought broken.A few brave souls have dared to stand against evil.
A curse plaguing generations has finally shattered.
What of it?
The Dark One cannot be stopped.
After thousands of years in shadow, Skara Pendain has claimed the name as he would a crown. And with it he has gained the throne of Erador. The east has fallen. The realm of men now bends to his will… or breaks beneath it.
With Baelon Vos cast down, the Dragon Riders—once the last shield of the realm—are his to command. Their fire, their fury, an extension of his dominion. From horizon to horizon, Skara’s rule is absolute.
All but one.
In the south, the Kedradi of Qalanqath refuse to kneel. They do not hide. They do not yield. They are hunters. Drawing Skara’s armies into a trap, they prepare for a clash that will decide the fate of Verda itself. Led by Kassanda Grey and Joran Pendain, the survivors of Skara’s wrath place their faith in the few Riders who still remember their oaths…
…in those who might yet bring about a Time of Dragons.
It is only a vision.
Seen by ten thousand eyes. Paid for with ten thousand lives.
A future that could be—not one that will be.
Because the board is breaking.
While Baelon Vos searches in the dark for a relic that could turn the tide of war, and new heroes draw their line in the hot sands of Kanofell, something far older has awakened.
Something no one can command, not even Daijen Saeth.
The Dragon Lord. The first of his kind.
Malliath.
Freed from the Shadow Realm, the ancient black dragon breathes the air of Verda once more. He remembers it all.
The betrayal.
The chains.
His heart now beats to the ancient song of vengeance.
Skara must turn from conquest to survival. His throne can wait. His war cannot. For what comes next is not a battle for kingdoms…
…but a reckoning.
A duel of man and beast.
Rider against dragon.
And this time, there will be no victor.
Only Death—at last stepping onto the board, to claim them all.
957 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
About the author
Philip C. Quaintrell
25 books1,711 followersPhilip started his career as an emergency nurse and began writing the books he’d want to read as a hobby between shifts.
He published his first novel in 2016, and soon began his epic fantasy series, The Echoes Saga which went straight into the Amazon bestsellers list in 4 countries.
Now one of the best-selling indie authors worldwide, Philip lives in Manchester, England with his wife and two young children and is hoping this is just the beginning.
He published his first novel in 2016, and soon began his epic fantasy series, The Echoes Saga which went straight into the Amazon bestsellers list in 4 countries.
Now one of the best-selling indie authors worldwide, Philip lives in Manchester, England with his wife and two young children and is hoping this is just the beginning.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 25, 2026
I genuinely don’t even know where to begin with this book. Philip C. Quaintrell somehow took everything he’s been building across this entire series and delivered something that completely exceeded my expectations. From the very first page of the prologue to the final moments of the epilogue, I was hooked.
The scale of this story has become massive, but it never loses the emotional core that makes the series so addictive. Every chapter raises the stakes and adds more emotional weight to the story. The action is phenomenal, the lore is fascinating, and the atmosphere feels heavy, eerie, and unsettling in the best way. There were multiple moments where I genuinely had to stop and just process what I had read.
What impressed me most was how naturally everything came together. Seeing story threads that have been developing since the beginning of the series finally converge in such a satisfying way was incredible. The book is packed with jaw-dropping moments, shocking twists, and reveals that genuinely caught me off guard.
The level of creativity and world-building in this book is honestly unreal. Some of the locations, creatures, and concepts in this book are among the coolest Philip has written so far. It constantly feels like the world is expanding in ways that feel immersive and meticulously thought out.
This is easily my favorite book in the series and, in my opinion, Philip C. Quaintrell at his absolute best. If you’ve been reading this series and trusting the process, this book rewards that patience in a massive way. Everything truly feels like it has been building toward this moment.
An unforgettable read and one of the most epic fantasy experiences I’ve ever had.
A huge thank you to Philip for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC. It was an absolute privilege to experience this story early and I am very grateful to be a part of this journey.
The scale of this story has become massive, but it never loses the emotional core that makes the series so addictive. Every chapter raises the stakes and adds more emotional weight to the story. The action is phenomenal, the lore is fascinating, and the atmosphere feels heavy, eerie, and unsettling in the best way. There were multiple moments where I genuinely had to stop and just process what I had read.
What impressed me most was how naturally everything came together. Seeing story threads that have been developing since the beginning of the series finally converge in such a satisfying way was incredible. The book is packed with jaw-dropping moments, shocking twists, and reveals that genuinely caught me off guard.
The level of creativity and world-building in this book is honestly unreal. Some of the locations, creatures, and concepts in this book are among the coolest Philip has written so far. It constantly feels like the world is expanding in ways that feel immersive and meticulously thought out.
This is easily my favorite book in the series and, in my opinion, Philip C. Quaintrell at his absolute best. If you’ve been reading this series and trusting the process, this book rewards that patience in a massive way. Everything truly feels like it has been building toward this moment.
An unforgettable read and one of the most epic fantasy experiences I’ve ever had.
A huge thank you to Philip for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC. It was an absolute privilege to experience this story early and I am very grateful to be a part of this journey.
June 7, 2026
I need the next book!! This was another amazing book in the series! So far I loved every one of them and I don't see that changing. No clue what Philip puts in these books but I'm addicted.
May 29, 2026
Again my most anticipated read of the year. Actually, any time Phillip releases a new book, it’s my most anticipated. First off, I must note how much of an honor it is to be on Phillip’s ARC team. Getting to read and review these books early and hopefully create more attention for them is something I don’t take lightly. This book starts off in the prologue in the POV of the Drakalis and that was awesome to have a dragon’s point of view. I fear my review of this book will not do it justice. We all know Phil does an amazing job with world building but he has truly expanded that to include the oceanic life. The rich history of the races of water folk is detailed and thought out. The different races are interesting and have their distinct characteristics and differences. The vivid picture he paints of this under sea world comes alive with every word, and the result is a beautiful picture that feels real and authentic. This story has so many winding cogs and storylines that are all unique and engaging, it never felt boring or too much. Each story line felt important and exciting in every way and blended together nicely. As true Quaintrell fashion, the story is packed with action and that action is written so well, it jumps off the page and throats you right into the middle of it! And we have more dragon fights! He writes them so well and I feel it just gets better with time. The reveals and over all impact this book has on the world of Verda is eye opening and jaw dropping. The history we get in this book truly felt exciting, fresh, and goosebump inducing. I guarantee you didn’t see this coming! Phillip is a menace in all the right ways pulling on heart strings and keeping the reader engaged on every page! This was such a pleasure to read and I recommend this series to everyone I come into contact with.
May 29, 2026
I read this book in advance of publication as I adore Phil's other books. This one took me straight back to the edge-of-my-seat excitement I got the very first time I read The Echoes Saga.
Each chapter takes you further and further into a rabbit hole and you have no idea where it will lead. I love the little Easter eggs, linking back to stories in the Ranger series, set 12,000 years after this piece.
I spent most of the book thinking 'I can't see how the heroes get out of this one'. The ending will have you begging for book 5!!
I simply cannot wait for that final showdown. It's going to be a huge, epic adventure.......
Each chapter takes you further and further into a rabbit hole and you have no idea where it will lead. I love the little Easter eggs, linking back to stories in the Ranger series, set 12,000 years after this piece.
I spent most of the book thinking 'I can't see how the heroes get out of this one'. The ending will have you begging for book 5!!
I simply cannot wait for that final showdown. It's going to be a huge, epic adventure.......
June 26, 2026
Absolutely great as always. I loved how the story unfolded so far and also the neatly done converging at the end. And I simply love that certain characters evolve in a way that I wouldn't have antipated but that I find deeply satisfying. And that nothing is as straightforward than it initally seemed to be ... now I'll have to patiently wait for the grand finale in book five next year, oh my ...
June 30, 2026
I am a little broken hearted to write this, but this had to be my least favorite of all of Quaintrell's books, and I have read them all. I love him, I love his personal success story, the Echoes Saga is my favorite book series EVER, but this one just did not hit the mark for me.
There were too many battle sequences that just dragged on way too long. And Kitrana Voden...I just do not understand the point of this character. I'm just so bored by her story and am having real trouble understanding why she needed so many chapters and so many words to contribute so little to the advancement of the main story line. It seems we could have gotten there way faster without me needing to call it a night whenever I reached a chapter devoted to her. It was just more palatable to start the next nights reading getting her out of the way as quickly as possible. Hers seems almost a separate, page filler story altogether.
None of this means the book was bad of course! There are some really great redemption arcs and twists here that are great examples of why I have grown to love Quaintrell so much. And Malliath, my very favorite villain of Verda - welcome back! This era of his story makes me wish for a better future for him than I know is coming.
There were too many battle sequences that just dragged on way too long. And Kitrana Voden...I just do not understand the point of this character. I'm just so bored by her story and am having real trouble understanding why she needed so many chapters and so many words to contribute so little to the advancement of the main story line. It seems we could have gotten there way faster without me needing to call it a night whenever I reached a chapter devoted to her. It was just more palatable to start the next nights reading getting her out of the way as quickly as possible. Hers seems almost a separate, page filler story altogether.
None of this means the book was bad of course! There are some really great redemption arcs and twists here that are great examples of why I have grown to love Quaintrell so much. And Malliath, my very favorite villain of Verda - welcome back! This era of his story makes me wish for a better future for him than I know is coming.
June 6, 2026
Heart pounding full speed ahead non stop madness!!
I just finished this fourth installment of The Time of Dragons series, and I need a moment for my brain to catch up. I believe I’ve been holding my breath for the entirety of the last chapter, with my eyes goggling. Let’s get right down to it, though, because there is so much that is culminating, and I need to try not to scream like a feral beastie while I try to write a review that does this glorious book justice.
Malliath takes us back to a memory of a time when he was still flying with Skara, on a mission to destroy Husks that have been reported to be in the keep, Silinor. Thus began the fracturing of their bond, initiated by Skara’s ignoring Malliath’s calls for help when he was in grave danger by a creature lurking in the depths of a lake, all because he covets more power. It sets the tone for the beginnings of the schism, and the hate that Malliath now carries against Skara.
Philip has also given what we asked for; more Kitrana Voden, the Nimean battle maiden who is now in possession of Dawnbreaker, the sword formerly belonging to Skara Pendain. Her story opens with the utter horror of the Leviathan breaking free of its chains/cave, and the chaos of the Meridians and the enslaved Nimeans attempting to flee, while battling each other. The entire scene is so fraught with tension, and the ferocious battle between Gelka Ornst, the Meridian Bright Commander, and Kitrana as they fight for possession of the sword and their lives, as the Leviathan ravages any and all who come across its hungering maw is heart-pounding!
The absolute tension conveyed throughout this entire book was where Philip shines in his skill as a top tier author. He is able to masterfully craft not only the setting, but marries it perfectly with the characters he’s brought to full blooded life. Their moods, reactions, motivations, are razor sharp, the dialogue easily immersive and believable. There aren’t enough adjectives to adequately describe what my brain is agog over.
And I know you want to know what is happening with Daijen Saith and his Aegre, Valyria, and their newly freed companion, Malliath, right? Well, first off, not all that belongs in the Shadow Realm remained there, and is going to cause some problems down the line for our long lost companions. Because they were truly gone for a heartbreaking amount of time. But Malliath has his own agenda, and it is an all consuming burning need to annihilate Skara Pendain. Thus he launches with a laser focus, homing in on the one who betrayed him, the instigator of his decades of torture and suffering. Daijen and Valyria are soon left far behind, unable to keep up with the far more powerful dragon. Especially since there is something worming its way into the Aegre…
Bam! Philip now slams us into the top of the tower, where Skara and his minion Dragon Riders have brought ruin upon Valgala, and specifically, to the throne room. Baelon Voss has awoken to the utter ruin of not only Valgala, but the stump at the end of his right arm, where his hand used to be. And his enemies, once allies, are still in the room. The absolute grit, in the face of deadly foes, shows why Baelon was the Dragonlord. And where his steely determination to survive is part and parcel of who he is. The eventual realization he has come to, and what it has cost the order, and the whole of Verda, is a soul searing moment. Yet he is far from safe, as his choice to seek out the Jainus, the wizards of some repute, to help heal his arm, brings him more than he, or his dragon Khalagan bargained for. I cringed on many an occasion as I read these chapters, actually feeling sympathy for those who had sought to destroy the true Oath sworn Dragon Riders. I also began to wonder about our intrepid writer’s mental well-being, considering the depth of the Jainus’ depravity.
This latest installment of what will ultimately culminate in a five novel series, is brought to new heights by the incredible writing. The richness of the characters’ growth and development, the absolute investment I had in every single page I consumed voraciously, is testament to the writing chops of Mr. Quaintrell.
The battle scenes alone are mind blowing. Whether under the waves, or upon an island cut off from escape, trapping the warriors of the Kedradi and their now allies the Valgalans, in the crumbling ruins while the enemy relentlessly swarms and slaughters without discretion. Plus, there are a few we love to hate who just keep turning up, like Slait, for example. He is still the sociopath we have grown to loathe, always biding his time. For what you are going to have to RAFO. Because, no spoilers.
The threads which have been running parallel, are now beginning to come together, as the ultimate battle is drawing them all. But things are stirring elsewhere as Baelon-Vos tries to thwart Skara’s plans. But Skara has miscalculated.
In short, I implore you to be a feral beastie, and READ THIS!!
I just finished this fourth installment of The Time of Dragons series, and I need a moment for my brain to catch up. I believe I’ve been holding my breath for the entirety of the last chapter, with my eyes goggling. Let’s get right down to it, though, because there is so much that is culminating, and I need to try not to scream like a feral beastie while I try to write a review that does this glorious book justice.
Malliath takes us back to a memory of a time when he was still flying with Skara, on a mission to destroy Husks that have been reported to be in the keep, Silinor. Thus began the fracturing of their bond, initiated by Skara’s ignoring Malliath’s calls for help when he was in grave danger by a creature lurking in the depths of a lake, all because he covets more power. It sets the tone for the beginnings of the schism, and the hate that Malliath now carries against Skara.
Philip has also given what we asked for; more Kitrana Voden, the Nimean battle maiden who is now in possession of Dawnbreaker, the sword formerly belonging to Skara Pendain. Her story opens with the utter horror of the Leviathan breaking free of its chains/cave, and the chaos of the Meridians and the enslaved Nimeans attempting to flee, while battling each other. The entire scene is so fraught with tension, and the ferocious battle between Gelka Ornst, the Meridian Bright Commander, and Kitrana as they fight for possession of the sword and their lives, as the Leviathan ravages any and all who come across its hungering maw is heart-pounding!
The absolute tension conveyed throughout this entire book was where Philip shines in his skill as a top tier author. He is able to masterfully craft not only the setting, but marries it perfectly with the characters he’s brought to full blooded life. Their moods, reactions, motivations, are razor sharp, the dialogue easily immersive and believable. There aren’t enough adjectives to adequately describe what my brain is agog over.
And I know you want to know what is happening with Daijen Saith and his Aegre, Valyria, and their newly freed companion, Malliath, right? Well, first off, not all that belongs in the Shadow Realm remained there, and is going to cause some problems down the line for our long lost companions. Because they were truly gone for a heartbreaking amount of time. But Malliath has his own agenda, and it is an all consuming burning need to annihilate Skara Pendain. Thus he launches with a laser focus, homing in on the one who betrayed him, the instigator of his decades of torture and suffering. Daijen and Valyria are soon left far behind, unable to keep up with the far more powerful dragon. Especially since there is something worming its way into the Aegre…
Bam! Philip now slams us into the top of the tower, where Skara and his minion Dragon Riders have brought ruin upon Valgala, and specifically, to the throne room. Baelon Voss has awoken to the utter ruin of not only Valgala, but the stump at the end of his right arm, where his hand used to be. And his enemies, once allies, are still in the room. The absolute grit, in the face of deadly foes, shows why Baelon was the Dragonlord. And where his steely determination to survive is part and parcel of who he is. The eventual realization he has come to, and what it has cost the order, and the whole of Verda, is a soul searing moment. Yet he is far from safe, as his choice to seek out the Jainus, the wizards of some repute, to help heal his arm, brings him more than he, or his dragon Khalagan bargained for. I cringed on many an occasion as I read these chapters, actually feeling sympathy for those who had sought to destroy the true Oath sworn Dragon Riders. I also began to wonder about our intrepid writer’s mental well-being, considering the depth of the Jainus’ depravity.
This latest installment of what will ultimately culminate in a five novel series, is brought to new heights by the incredible writing. The richness of the characters’ growth and development, the absolute investment I had in every single page I consumed voraciously, is testament to the writing chops of Mr. Quaintrell.
The battle scenes alone are mind blowing. Whether under the waves, or upon an island cut off from escape, trapping the warriors of the Kedradi and their now allies the Valgalans, in the crumbling ruins while the enemy relentlessly swarms and slaughters without discretion. Plus, there are a few we love to hate who just keep turning up, like Slait, for example. He is still the sociopath we have grown to loathe, always biding his time. For what you are going to have to RAFO. Because, no spoilers.
The threads which have been running parallel, are now beginning to come together, as the ultimate battle is drawing them all. But things are stirring elsewhere as Baelon-Vos tries to thwart Skara’s plans. But Skara has miscalculated.
In short, I implore you to be a feral beastie, and READ THIS!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This review is available on Grimoire Ink Reviews
**I received an E-ARC of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest read and review.**
“Tides of Blood and War” book 4 in the “A Time of Dragons” Saga by Phillip Quaintrell, this book absolutely explodes off the pages with action, tension, wrath and lore from the first page of the Prologue…right to the very last page of the Epilogue. Chapters that induce some of the most heart pounding and stress elevating emotions that I've experienced put to the written page! Good God Phillip, how am I going to survive book 5?! This damn near killed me… and I loved every bloody line! 😈
By far (IMHO) the most vivid world building, lore layering and searing battles we've experienced, not only in this Saga…but by Quaintrell in general! Tides is an explosive example of why Phillip has exploded onto readers' radars, signed a book deal and even inked the possibility of a TV series, showcasing his beautiful creation that is Verda! Once again, this wild and gargantuan Saga is expanded with more unseen realms, titans from above and below, races forgotten to time, and power that will shake the very foundations of this world at war. This book (to quote a line from our brilliant author) is, “Weight and endurance made manifest”! 🔥
Picking up directly after the shocking events of “Last Ballad of Hope” we waste no time diving back into the conflict that rages across the realms this world contains. I couldn't give book 3 enough praise, and dear Lord this entry explodes from the depths and devours that experience! Phillip rocked me with the introduction of the Shadow Realm in book 3, and by God if he doesn't reveal another magical and awe inducing area in this journey. Dripping with otherworldly views, size and feeling…this new addition blasts us with some of the deepest and most eye opening lore in this Saga. A glimpse to “Where it all began” will no doubt leave your jaws on the floor, and Phillips not done there…lineage is weaved into this new development as well…holy hell are readers in for a MASSIVE treat! 🤯
Foundation shattering battles between titans, magic that fractures the very conviction of those involved, and bonds that test the limits of endurance, vengeance, wrath and hope. This is an entry that's vivid, consuming, and impossible to contain…all of Verda is swept up in the “Tides of Blood and War” can our growing cast of heroes hold to the age old promise of “Unwavering Valor, Unyielding Honor and Unending Sacrifice “, or will the relentless poisoning of the mind, from the Dark One himself, solidify the pursuit of “Unwavering Conviction, Unyielding Authority and Unending Victory”?! Tragedy and Carnage can not be allowed to endure…resistance and hope must find a way to persevere. Weapons of power are turning tides, but are they also unlocking terrors that should stay locked away?! To again steal a powerful quote, from a new introduction to our cast…
“Valor, Honor, Sacrifice. Tis a unbreakable cord of three. Do not abandon them, for they are the roots of you. Theirin lies the hope of your people.”
5⭐ mind-blowing edition to this Saga! I'm not sure to what heights Phillip will take the final book… but I'm ready, if not terrified to meet the conclusion head on! I'll leave you to-be readers with one last quote that just fits the tone of what we are facing…
“The Blade Forgets, but the deep remembers. So say we, who endure tides of blood and war.”
Exhausted is what you'll be my friends…but dear God, enjoy every damn page of it!! Man, this might just might be book of the year! Well done Phillip! 📚🍻
**I received an E-ARC of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest read and review.**
“Tides of Blood and War” book 4 in the “A Time of Dragons” Saga by Phillip Quaintrell, this book absolutely explodes off the pages with action, tension, wrath and lore from the first page of the Prologue…right to the very last page of the Epilogue. Chapters that induce some of the most heart pounding and stress elevating emotions that I've experienced put to the written page! Good God Phillip, how am I going to survive book 5?! This damn near killed me… and I loved every bloody line! 😈
By far (IMHO) the most vivid world building, lore layering and searing battles we've experienced, not only in this Saga…but by Quaintrell in general! Tides is an explosive example of why Phillip has exploded onto readers' radars, signed a book deal and even inked the possibility of a TV series, showcasing his beautiful creation that is Verda! Once again, this wild and gargantuan Saga is expanded with more unseen realms, titans from above and below, races forgotten to time, and power that will shake the very foundations of this world at war. This book (to quote a line from our brilliant author) is, “Weight and endurance made manifest”! 🔥
Picking up directly after the shocking events of “Last Ballad of Hope” we waste no time diving back into the conflict that rages across the realms this world contains. I couldn't give book 3 enough praise, and dear Lord this entry explodes from the depths and devours that experience! Phillip rocked me with the introduction of the Shadow Realm in book 3, and by God if he doesn't reveal another magical and awe inducing area in this journey. Dripping with otherworldly views, size and feeling…this new addition blasts us with some of the deepest and most eye opening lore in this Saga. A glimpse to “Where it all began” will no doubt leave your jaws on the floor, and Phillips not done there…lineage is weaved into this new development as well…holy hell are readers in for a MASSIVE treat! 🤯
Foundation shattering battles between titans, magic that fractures the very conviction of those involved, and bonds that test the limits of endurance, vengeance, wrath and hope. This is an entry that's vivid, consuming, and impossible to contain…all of Verda is swept up in the “Tides of Blood and War” can our growing cast of heroes hold to the age old promise of “Unwavering Valor, Unyielding Honor and Unending Sacrifice “, or will the relentless poisoning of the mind, from the Dark One himself, solidify the pursuit of “Unwavering Conviction, Unyielding Authority and Unending Victory”?! Tragedy and Carnage can not be allowed to endure…resistance and hope must find a way to persevere. Weapons of power are turning tides, but are they also unlocking terrors that should stay locked away?! To again steal a powerful quote, from a new introduction to our cast…
“Valor, Honor, Sacrifice. Tis a unbreakable cord of three. Do not abandon them, for they are the roots of you. Theirin lies the hope of your people.”
5⭐ mind-blowing edition to this Saga! I'm not sure to what heights Phillip will take the final book… but I'm ready, if not terrified to meet the conclusion head on! I'll leave you to-be readers with one last quote that just fits the tone of what we are facing…
“The Blade Forgets, but the deep remembers. So say we, who endure tides of blood and war.”
Exhausted is what you'll be my friends…but dear God, enjoy every damn page of it!! Man, this might just might be book of the year! Well done Phillip! 📚🍻
Read
June 1, 2026Ancient dragons and their riders battle in the skies above Verda.
Reviewed in the United States on June 1, 2026
Format: Kindle
"I am honored to say that I received an Advance Review Copy of this book from Philip C. Quaintrell. This is my honest and voluntary review of
'A Time of Dragons: Tides of Blood and War.
Get ready!
The fourth installment of A Time of Dragons delivers epic battles, breathtaking world-building, and some of the most powerful character evolutions in the series so far.
Philip C. Quaintrell returns with a devastatingly high-stakes tale where a ruthless conqueror's quest for domination sends his minions into the scorching south, sparking a brutal clash with the true dragon riders of old who still remember their ancient oaths against those who have tried to rewrite what a dragon rider truly is.
Amidst the chaos above, a desperate war of mer-armies rages below the waves, where a fearless battle maiden wields the very sword she was sworn to protect to finally free her people.
The stakes only escalate as dragons who were once allies divide over ideologies, and the most ancient among them seeks a terrifying vengeance after thousands of years of betrayal.
We also find our beloved, stalwart dwarves, their feared battle axes, and one who stands tall with a legendary enchanted hammer and a fierce desire to see an end to the madness.
Philip writes our favorite characters—even the ones we love to hate—with a masterful weaving of timelines, pulling together old threads of lore he has been building throughout this entire series (including his other series'!).
Just when we thought there might be an end in sight, he makes this world even larger by introducing an unforseen but exciting twist, a new storyline and characters. Could there be an even more devastating event on the horizon?
Reviewed in the United States on June 1, 2026
Format: Kindle
"I am honored to say that I received an Advance Review Copy of this book from Philip C. Quaintrell. This is my honest and voluntary review of
'A Time of Dragons: Tides of Blood and War.
Get ready!
The fourth installment of A Time of Dragons delivers epic battles, breathtaking world-building, and some of the most powerful character evolutions in the series so far.
Philip C. Quaintrell returns with a devastatingly high-stakes tale where a ruthless conqueror's quest for domination sends his minions into the scorching south, sparking a brutal clash with the true dragon riders of old who still remember their ancient oaths against those who have tried to rewrite what a dragon rider truly is.
Amidst the chaos above, a desperate war of mer-armies rages below the waves, where a fearless battle maiden wields the very sword she was sworn to protect to finally free her people.
The stakes only escalate as dragons who were once allies divide over ideologies, and the most ancient among them seeks a terrifying vengeance after thousands of years of betrayal.
We also find our beloved, stalwart dwarves, their feared battle axes, and one who stands tall with a legendary enchanted hammer and a fierce desire to see an end to the madness.
Philip writes our favorite characters—even the ones we love to hate—with a masterful weaving of timelines, pulling together old threads of lore he has been building throughout this entire series (including his other series'!).
Just when we thought there might be an end in sight, he makes this world even larger by introducing an unforseen but exciting twist, a new storyline and characters. Could there be an even more devastating event on the horizon?
July 31, 2026
Firstly I have to say I have been an avid reader of all Philips books he really has an amazing imagination and is a very creative writer. That said I sadly did not totally enjoy this book, I enjoyed all the parts of the story regarding the main characters and their continuing development but I really didn't enjoy much of the Kitana story, in fact I skim read most of the underwater story and frankly it didn't in any way affect the story itself. I did enjoy the introduction of the new underwater characters but it was kind of like a mirror to the above world and for me didn't really offer much in the way of the storyline
It was interesting to learn of Maliaths beginning but also very sad especially knowing how things ultimately turn out for him. It was good to meet Morgwym and share the memories of his mother and how his bond with Joran is growing, so many good things so......... looking forward to the next instalment
It was interesting to learn of Maliaths beginning but also very sad especially knowing how things ultimately turn out for him. It was good to meet Morgwym and share the memories of his mother and how his bond with Joran is growing, so many good things so......... looking forward to the next instalment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2026
Oh my oh my
The tide of the war is changing. There is a drum beating in the deep calling all who can hold, to press forward one last time for hope. Our heroes must rise to the occasion and out wit their known enemies before it's to late.
Not only are the tides of war upon them, but waves of feelings, hope, and redemption are crashing upon them.
I absolutely loved diving into this next installment of ATOD and the world of Verda. I'm also kind of sad to know the next is the last time we might return to each of them how they currently stand.
Not to repeat myself, but there is something about Philip's writing that just feels like coming home. Each time I open one of the Verda books I feel like I'm swimming/flying/fighting/surviving right along side each character.
Now to not patiently wait the next one 🌊
The tide of the war is changing. There is a drum beating in the deep calling all who can hold, to press forward one last time for hope. Our heroes must rise to the occasion and out wit their known enemies before it's to late.
Not only are the tides of war upon them, but waves of feelings, hope, and redemption are crashing upon them.
I absolutely loved diving into this next installment of ATOD and the world of Verda. I'm also kind of sad to know the next is the last time we might return to each of them how they currently stand.
Not to repeat myself, but there is something about Philip's writing that just feels like coming home. Each time I open one of the Verda books I feel like I'm swimming/flying/fighting/surviving right along side each character.
Now to not patiently wait the next one 🌊
June 30, 2026
Book 4 was incredible. Every chapter a battle on the edge of defeat, making your anxieties rage. Kitrana really shined with Dawnbreaker and the battles that took place in the waters of Verda. That leviathan is so freaking gnarly. Just when you think Skara is the most evil, vile freaking thing, someone worse comes along and now we have to deal with that!
What tugs at my emotions most, is these dragons and their bonds to the riders. While in egg form, dragon and rider learn everything about each other through a memories share. Whether a dragon and their rider are good or bad, and one falls in battle, the severing of the bond is so heart breaking that you cant help but hurt with them. I cant wait for the last book!
What tugs at my emotions most, is these dragons and their bonds to the riders. While in egg form, dragon and rider learn everything about each other through a memories share. Whether a dragon and their rider are good or bad, and one falls in battle, the severing of the bond is so heart breaking that you cant help but hurt with them. I cant wait for the last book!
July 16, 2026
Visceral, that's the word that comes to mind
I'm actually out of breath after reading this book. Two beyond epic battles, happening at the same time, that feel like they last forever! When Philip did the POV from one to the other, you forget, until you're thrown in again. One below the surface (which is so amazing and well written) to above the surface where the Dragon's fight for hours without stopping. It's actually mental.
And that's just the last third of the book... The build up to the insane climax weighs heavy in my mind.
This series is truly brilliant, but it's bloody visceral so be prepared!! I guess we wait for book 5.. Barad Agin is a truly horrible villain, great twist at the end, he's one twisted dude!
I'm actually out of breath after reading this book. Two beyond epic battles, happening at the same time, that feel like they last forever! When Philip did the POV from one to the other, you forget, until you're thrown in again. One below the surface (which is so amazing and well written) to above the surface where the Dragon's fight for hours without stopping. It's actually mental.
And that's just the last third of the book... The build up to the insane climax weighs heavy in my mind.
This series is truly brilliant, but it's bloody visceral so be prepared!! I guess we wait for book 5.. Barad Agin is a truly horrible villain, great twist at the end, he's one twisted dude!
July 28, 2026
Not one really for writing reviews, but compared to every other book from PCQ, this book was rubbish, which hurts to say because The Echoes saga and even A Time of Dragon's up until this book have been amazing. But focussing on an under water civilisation was the wrong direction to take. The underwater scenes were poorly constructed and I felt myself putting the book down every time Kit's chapter popped up because it was tedious to get through. He took the book in the wrong direction from that perspective with a boring character. The other characters were great and the overall story was pretty good, I'm just dissapointed in this book.
Stop trying to do too much, keep it on land and it would have been great.
Stop trying to do too much, keep it on land and it would have been great.
June 26, 2026
My only complaint is that I finished the book far too quickly—I need the next one to come out NOW!
Philip has done it again and absolutely doesn't disappoint. I loved everything about this book: the story, the effortless pacing, and, most of all, the characters.
I was very skeptical when this series was first announced because I loved The Echoes Saga so much. But with every book, Philip has proven that my doubts were completely unfounded.
I can't wait for the next—and final—book in the series. I'm incredibly excited to see how he ties everything together with what we already knew about Erador and its connection to The Echoes Saga.
Philip has done it again and absolutely doesn't disappoint. I loved everything about this book: the story, the effortless pacing, and, most of all, the characters.
I was very skeptical when this series was first announced because I loved The Echoes Saga so much. But with every book, Philip has proven that my doubts were completely unfounded.
I can't wait for the next—and final—book in the series. I'm incredibly excited to see how he ties everything together with what we already knew about Erador and its connection to The Echoes Saga.
July 16, 2026
Quaintrell puts crack in these books, I swear. A 950 page book goes by in the blink of an eye if he's written it.
The battle scenes are incredible, the dragon fights are electric. The action is non-stop. I can't wait for the next one.
It was great to learn more about the underwater races during this book, and we got more backstory into how dragons decided to make their bonds to humans. And a little more Malliath backstory, which I always appreciate.
I loved everything about Joran in this one, and how he really is trying to become the hero that he's been prophesied to become.
That epilogue just knocked the entire series so far out of the water. 10/10
The battle scenes are incredible, the dragon fights are electric. The action is non-stop. I can't wait for the next one.
It was great to learn more about the underwater races during this book, and we got more backstory into how dragons decided to make their bonds to humans. And a little more Malliath backstory, which I always appreciate.
I loved everything about Joran in this one, and how he really is trying to become the hero that he's been prophesied to become.
That epilogue just knocked the entire series so far out of the water. 10/10
June 6, 2026
Holy crap. I still dont know if I prefer A Time or Dragons to Echoes, I just love the Echoes characters so much. However what I can say is I think Barad-Agin may be the authors greatest villain yet, and that's really saying something. After meeting him properly in the last book I was hoping we would see him again down the line, but I had no idea he would supplant Skara as the big bad of this series. So great. Cannot wait for the final book.
I hope the author continues to write stories set in Verda for years to come, as its become perhaps my favourite fantasy world in all of fiction.
I hope the author continues to write stories set in Verda for years to come, as its become perhaps my favourite fantasy world in all of fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2026
I love a nice chonker of a fantasy series. Especially when it’s written by someone like Quaintrell or Ryan Cahill. Those are 2 phenomenal authors I’ll always read. When either of their stories come to an end, it’ll be a depressing time for me. The world building is beautiful and I can’t get enough. A Time of Dragons is just incredible. If you are a fan of Echoes Saga, I most definitely recommend this one! Enjoy
July 12, 2026
This series is fantastic. Can't believe I have to wait until next year for the conclusion.
This one felt like the action was way turned up. I felt like I never caught my breath going from battle to battle.
Really enjoyed Baelon in this one.
My only negative is that I really wish it had more Daijen! I was really excited for where he was at the end of book 3 and we didn't get very much of him. I'm expecting him to be at the center of book 5.
This one felt like the action was way turned up. I felt like I never caught my breath going from battle to battle.
Really enjoyed Baelon in this one.
My only negative is that I really wish it had more Daijen! I was really excited for where he was at the end of book 3 and we didn't get very much of him. I'm expecting him to be at the center of book 5.
June 7, 2026
I'm unsure where to begin.
It's a 4,5 star for me. Sometimes a bit too slow and predictable, sometimes very confusing.
I loved the character growths of many of our main POVs, baddies and goodies alike.
Wow, can't wait on book 5.
You don't want to know how many times I've said: it's all going to hell isn't it? Yes.... but what a ride!!
It's a 4,5 star for me. Sometimes a bit too slow and predictable, sometimes very confusing.
I loved the character growths of many of our main POVs, baddies and goodies alike.
Wow, can't wait on book 5.
You don't want to know how many times I've said: it's all going to hell isn't it? Yes.... but what a ride!!
June 17, 2026
I really Like this series, the only thing that bothers me, is that this could easily be two books.
It could use a little focus, as there are many POVs, so I feel like the pacing is a little off.
Although, again I really like the characters and story, and am REALLY excited for the conclusion.
It could use a little focus, as there are many POVs, so I feel like the pacing is a little off.
Although, again I really like the characters and story, and am REALLY excited for the conclusion.
June 27, 2026
Awesome!
Philip C. Quaintrell is one of my most favorite authors. I have read most of his books. A time of Dragons book series is one of best I have ever read. A story of action, friendship, evil vs good. I highly recommend them!
Philip C. Quaintrell is one of my most favorite authors. I have read most of his books. A time of Dragons book series is one of best I have ever read. A story of action, friendship, evil vs good. I highly recommend them!
July 12, 2026
The Story Continues!
Great book. Finally see the threads come together in a fascinating tale of events. Heartbreak and heroic deeds all tied together. Twists and unexpected turns will keep you guessing .
Great book. Finally see the threads come together in a fascinating tale of events. Heartbreak and heroic deeds all tied together. Twists and unexpected turns will keep you guessing .
June 14, 2026
Another heavy hitter. And with that epilogue? The worst is still to come ... can't wait.
June 19, 2026
Addictive
Another fantastic edition Exploring and bringing new characters into the saga with a whole new meaning of what a 4D environment looks like.
Another fantastic edition Exploring and bringing new characters into the saga with a whole new meaning of what a 4D environment looks like.
June 24, 2026
Need the final book asapppp
June 26, 2026
I thought this was the last one!!! Apparently one more to go in 2027. I'm so annoyed I have to wait. The series and story lines are building nicely.
June 29, 2026
awesome series
This is a great series, once started couldn’t hardly put it down. Can’t wait for book 5. Too bad it isn’t coming out till 2027.
This is a great series, once started couldn’t hardly put it down. Can’t wait for book 5. Too bad it isn’t coming out till 2027.
July 1, 2026
Big book fast read
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