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Drakon #1
Drakon: The Sieve
“The Sieve” is Book I of the epic fantasy novel Drakon.
“I am here to redeem the lives of my wife and daughter. I’ve brought the offering.”
Da-Ren, an infidel barbarian, arrives at the Castlemonastery, his only offering a jar of honey. Baagh, the Cross Sorcerer, follows him there under orders of the Emperor, demanding from the monks to transcribe the warrior’s story.
Book I chronicles Da-Ren’s early years, growing up in a tribe of archer riders and pagan witches, camped north of the Blackvein River. He enters the Sieve, the forty-day initiation trial that determines the fate of every boy and girl. Many of his comrades will fall, the strong will join the warriors, and an elite few will be marked for leadership. Da-Ren learns to endure the elements, to obey the Truths, to keep standing when all hope is lost. He swallows the legends of the Ouna-Ma witches, learns to hate all other tribes, and conquers fear.
And yet there is one trial that will bring him to his knees. The Goddess’s favorite daughter. “Brown-haired, brown-eyed. Brown was the first color of the day.”
The journey begins for the man who will become the First Blade of the Devil.
A brutal, poetic, first-person narrative of war, death, and love.
South of the Blackvein River, a young Sarah survives the horror of the barbaric raids and devotes her life on acquiring knowledge and wisdom. She will talk to the witches, the priests and the rag dolls, she will learn the tales and the songspells, she will give birth and demand death. Revenge is her only mission. Not even ten thousand warriors will be able to stand against her when she delivers a revenge of wine and song.
“I am here to redeem the lives of my wife and daughter. I’ve brought the offering.”
Da-Ren, an infidel barbarian, arrives at the Castlemonastery, his only offering a jar of honey. Baagh, the Cross Sorcerer, follows him there under orders of the Emperor, demanding from the monks to transcribe the warrior’s story.
Book I chronicles Da-Ren’s early years, growing up in a tribe of archer riders and pagan witches, camped north of the Blackvein River. He enters the Sieve, the forty-day initiation trial that determines the fate of every boy and girl. Many of his comrades will fall, the strong will join the warriors, and an elite few will be marked for leadership. Da-Ren learns to endure the elements, to obey the Truths, to keep standing when all hope is lost. He swallows the legends of the Ouna-Ma witches, learns to hate all other tribes, and conquers fear.
And yet there is one trial that will bring him to his knees. The Goddess’s favorite daughter. “Brown-haired, brown-eyed. Brown was the first color of the day.”
The journey begins for the man who will become the First Blade of the Devil.
A brutal, poetic, first-person narrative of war, death, and love.
South of the Blackvein River, a young Sarah survives the horror of the barbaric raids and devotes her life on acquiring knowledge and wisdom. She will talk to the witches, the priests and the rag dolls, she will learn the tales and the songspells, she will give birth and demand death. Revenge is her only mission. Not even ten thousand warriors will be able to stand against her when she delivers a revenge of wine and song.
232 pages, Paperback
Published September 13, 2016
459 people are currently reading
831 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Caskabel
8 books57 followersC.A. Caskabel was born in Athens, Greece, and lived in New England for almost twenty years, including 2018, when he started writing Cradle. This is his second novel, following the epic fantasy series Drakon. Drakon, which I highly recommend, is another variant of the same story that I write over and over again: man is the most dangerous monster, and the hero (or heroine) has to pay a price so high that it is worthy of a song and a story.
In 2018, he started writing a novel about a pandemic based on the H7N9 influenza virus, a very real and documented global threat. About the same time, He started working for a clean energy startup that aims to make diesel generators obsolete in developing countries, and I was raising four children. On the one hand, he was worried about their future; on the other, he kept reading world news about civil wars, refugees, and child exploitation. Somehow, all this messed together to create a novel about four women, a story that he hopes is more about resilience rather than tragedy.
He started writing Drakon in 2013 and completed the 400,000-word epic fantasy novel in 2016. He split Drakon into four books which he will release within 2017, he promises. After all, he is eager to start working on the next novel. C.A. is also the founder of an indie publisher of picture books and fantasy fiction.
In 2018, he started writing a novel about a pandemic based on the H7N9 influenza virus, a very real and documented global threat. About the same time, He started working for a clean energy startup that aims to make diesel generators obsolete in developing countries, and I was raising four children. On the one hand, he was worried about their future; on the other, he kept reading world news about civil wars, refugees, and child exploitation. Somehow, all this messed together to create a novel about four women, a story that he hopes is more about resilience rather than tragedy.
He started writing Drakon in 2013 and completed the 400,000-word epic fantasy novel in 2016. He split Drakon into four books which he will release within 2017, he promises. After all, he is eager to start working on the next novel. C.A. is also the founder of an indie publisher of picture books and fantasy fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 20, 2020
Me Second Reflections:
I read an eArc of this book back in the day and enjoyed it enough to want to continue the series. I tried to start book two a couple of times and couldn't get into it. I thought I would go back and reread this first book to see if it was just a lack of remembering the finer details. I still really enjoyed book one the second time around. I found the world building to be brutal and interesting. The main character, Da-Ren, still intrigued me. I cannot seem to get into book two even so. The concept is still interesting but I am not sure what the hang up is. I have set the series aside for now and don't see meself trying again any time soon. Arrr!
***********
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So here be me honest musings . . .
This was one of those fantasy novels where the cover caught me eye. Not only was the face on the cover odd but the “Drakon” made me wonder if there were dragons in it. I have a soft spot for dragons. The synopsis sounded interesting so I requested it. Of course by the time I read the book I had forgotten what it was about. I actually think that contributed to me enjoyment of the story.
The story is of a “hero” Da-Ren who has fled to a monastery asking for redemption for his wife and daughter. The monks there require that he tell his story in detail and assign a young monk to transcribe the tale. The author has chosen to split this epic fantasy in four parts. This novel was part one and deals with Da-Ren’s training in the Sieve.
I enjoyed this setup from the monk’s point of view. We approach Da-Ren’s story from the end point knowing that he has been labeled the “First Blade of the Devil.” The monk’s insight into Da-Ren’s character set the tone for the reader learning Da-Ren’s tale. While most of the story is told from Da-Ren’s point of view, the author does returns to the monk’s viewpoint. I didn’t always enjoy the interruption.
The Sieve is a coming-of-age trial for children of the tribe. Da-Ren is an orphan raised in the dregs of society. It is a warrior based society where both men and woman can have high roles if they earn it. The spiritual side of the tribe is controlled by women who are witches (though men play a part as well). I enjoyed that there were some strong female characters. Da-Ren being an orphan, in this culture meaning his mother has died, is placed outside the usual structures. He is uneducated, mistreated, and considered worthless to the tribe.
I found Da-Ren to be a compelling character and narrator. The society was rich with tradition and detail. The myths in particular were compelling and enriched the narration. The trial itself was very unusual in its composition. I found this novel overall to be highly enjoyable and read it in one sitting. While there were some inconsistencies in the story, I am not sure if they were part of the overall larger picture or just mistakes. In any case, I thought it was a great introduction to a fun character and worldview and I certainly want to know what’s coming next.
So lastly . . .
Thank you AuthorBuzz!
see me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
I read an eArc of this book back in the day and enjoyed it enough to want to continue the series. I tried to start book two a couple of times and couldn't get into it. I thought I would go back and reread this first book to see if it was just a lack of remembering the finer details. I still really enjoyed book one the second time around. I found the world building to be brutal and interesting. The main character, Da-Ren, still intrigued me. I cannot seem to get into book two even so. The concept is still interesting but I am not sure what the hang up is. I have set the series aside for now and don't see meself trying again any time soon. Arrr!
***********
Ahoy there me mateys! I received this fantasy eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. So here be me honest musings . . .
This was one of those fantasy novels where the cover caught me eye. Not only was the face on the cover odd but the “Drakon” made me wonder if there were dragons in it. I have a soft spot for dragons. The synopsis sounded interesting so I requested it. Of course by the time I read the book I had forgotten what it was about. I actually think that contributed to me enjoyment of the story.
The story is of a “hero” Da-Ren who has fled to a monastery asking for redemption for his wife and daughter. The monks there require that he tell his story in detail and assign a young monk to transcribe the tale. The author has chosen to split this epic fantasy in four parts. This novel was part one and deals with Da-Ren’s training in the Sieve.
I enjoyed this setup from the monk’s point of view. We approach Da-Ren’s story from the end point knowing that he has been labeled the “First Blade of the Devil.” The monk’s insight into Da-Ren’s character set the tone for the reader learning Da-Ren’s tale. While most of the story is told from Da-Ren’s point of view, the author does returns to the monk’s viewpoint. I didn’t always enjoy the interruption.
The Sieve is a coming-of-age trial for children of the tribe. Da-Ren is an orphan raised in the dregs of society. It is a warrior based society where both men and woman can have high roles if they earn it. The spiritual side of the tribe is controlled by women who are witches (though men play a part as well). I enjoyed that there were some strong female characters. Da-Ren being an orphan, in this culture meaning his mother has died, is placed outside the usual structures. He is uneducated, mistreated, and considered worthless to the tribe.
I found Da-Ren to be a compelling character and narrator. The society was rich with tradition and detail. The myths in particular were compelling and enriched the narration. The trial itself was very unusual in its composition. I found this novel overall to be highly enjoyable and read it in one sitting. While there were some inconsistencies in the story, I am not sure if they were part of the overall larger picture or just mistakes. In any case, I thought it was a great introduction to a fun character and worldview and I certainly want to know what’s coming next.
So lastly . . .
Thank you AuthorBuzz!
see me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
September 24, 2016
AWESOME!!! Love this style books with such worlds! Excellent detail and very nicely put together for one to be pulled in quickly into the story and to want more...can't wait for the next one! Also, really interesting world and story you created by the author, BRAVO!!! It's a little like "Lord of the Rings", but also has a "Genghis Khan dynasty" feel. Really great job by the author!!! Amazing what he has created!!! I don't remember reading a book in two days (over travelling and in between meetings)...maybe when I read The Da Vinci Code...super stuff!!!
July 28, 2017
Ok, I know it is kind of lame to post a review while the book is in your to-read list.
However, it was a year ago I read the original Greek version Δράκων: Γέννηση of the novel and I was awestruck by the strengths of the book. The only reason I am writing this first paragraph, instead of outright and wholeheartedly recommending it is because I have yet to see both the quality of the rewritten text (because I know the novel is expanded in its English version, hence the four instead of two parts).
Back when the book came out, I remember seeing it in a bookstore, reading the synopsis on its back and being a bit confused whether or not this was supposed to be a historic (booooooo!!!!) or a fantasy (yay!!!!!!!) novel. When peer reviews convinced me to give it a try, I was surprised to find out it was a little bit of both: this is a pretty down to earth fantasy novel, set some time during the Byzantine era, where a group of barbarians are raiding a thinly-veiled Byzantium.
The protagonist is one of the Barbarians and this part of the novel chronicles his upbringing. The sieve is a training all children have to go through, and it reminds of Ancient Sparta (the tribe of the protagonist is a hodge-podge of Spartans, Huns, Mongols and the author's imagination). The hard tests he has to endure, his friendships and rivalries, the tribe's legends are being seen as he chronicles his life to a monk, years later.
The original text was very easy to read and the two narators ( the Barbarian and the Monk) had very distinct voices. Unless there is a major botch-up (which I seriously doubt - the original was the epitome of professionalism) this should be the case for this one. The characters were memorable and jumping out of the page at every chance.
Overall, this is a great work of pseudohistorical fiction. There is interesting worldbuilding to engage a fantasy reader, but also a grounded story to appeal to historical fiction fans. The setting (Barbarians trying to raid Byzantium) is also fresh. Really looking forward to read this novel once more, when it is completed. Until then, all you non-greek readers should probably sink your teeth into it, definetely worth your time.
However, it was a year ago I read the original Greek version Δράκων: Γέννηση of the novel and I was awestruck by the strengths of the book. The only reason I am writing this first paragraph, instead of outright and wholeheartedly recommending it is because I have yet to see both the quality of the rewritten text (because I know the novel is expanded in its English version, hence the four instead of two parts).
Back when the book came out, I remember seeing it in a bookstore, reading the synopsis on its back and being a bit confused whether or not this was supposed to be a historic (booooooo!!!!) or a fantasy (yay!!!!!!!) novel. When peer reviews convinced me to give it a try, I was surprised to find out it was a little bit of both: this is a pretty down to earth fantasy novel, set some time during the Byzantine era, where a group of barbarians are raiding a thinly-veiled Byzantium.
The protagonist is one of the Barbarians and this part of the novel chronicles his upbringing. The sieve is a training all children have to go through, and it reminds of Ancient Sparta (the tribe of the protagonist is a hodge-podge of Spartans, Huns, Mongols and the author's imagination). The hard tests he has to endure, his friendships and rivalries, the tribe's legends are being seen as he chronicles his life to a monk, years later.
The original text was very easy to read and the two narators ( the Barbarian and the Monk) had very distinct voices. Unless there is a major botch-up (which I seriously doubt - the original was the epitome of professionalism) this should be the case for this one. The characters were memorable and jumping out of the page at every chance.
Overall, this is a great work of pseudohistorical fiction. There is interesting worldbuilding to engage a fantasy reader, but also a grounded story to appeal to historical fiction fans. The setting (Barbarians trying to raid Byzantium) is also fresh. Really looking forward to read this novel once more, when it is completed. Until then, all you non-greek readers should probably sink your teeth into it, definetely worth your time.
June 5, 2017
The Sieve, the first installment of the Drakon saga would be best described as beautifully brutal, in the sense that the brutality is not gratuitous or used for its own sake - the book relates the early years of the children born into a harsh tribe of the steppes, a horde that needs to remain strong, to ever grow and spread under the Unending Sky of their Goddess, Enaka. The story is related to us through the written word of the Monk Eusebius, who wrote down the facts, the legends and the horrors as related to him by a 30 year old Da-Ren, who remembers his life mostly since the beginning of the Sieve, the sorting and conditioning process of the tribe for 12 year old children. There is pain, death, despair and betrayal, occasinally mixed with a bit of hope and personal bravery. It is like looking into what makes a child into a tribal man, a man into a warrior and a warrior into a potential leader, all immersed into legendry and superstition, keeping an intense pace at all times, where each and every word is absolutely necessary.
Read
November 4, 2016I read it many times, but I cannot review it.
July 14, 2017
This book starts out as a story told through a monk in order to record the atrocities of The Sieve, an excruciating and barbaric warrior training for children in this world. So, when I first started I had my doubts just because this is a hard format to make good. I'm glad I continued to reading because I didn't have to read too many pages before it got really good. The author does an incredible job putting the reader into the lives of these children. I felt their pain and saw the world through their eyes. It is a quick read, but trust me when I say this story will stick with you. The cover alone gives me the creeps. I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
September 21, 2016
Having already read this masterpiece in hellenic language, I found myself been caught, once again, by surprise, since this english version is perfect by all means... I am very proud that books of that level of quality, are translated so effectively in another language and advertise the local literature abroad. I should note here, that translation procedure, avoided every usual linguistic and expressive obstacle maintaining the aura and the thrill of the hellenic version intact. In according to that I should mention that the aesthetical concept of the book is breathtaking
September 1, 2018
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
The origin story of a barbarian warrior and the trials and tribulations he has to go through to become a warrior.
Not bad, but I expected rather more derring-do.
The origin story of a barbarian warrior and the trials and tribulations he has to go through to become a warrior.
Not bad, but I expected rather more derring-do.
September 17, 2016
This first book of the Drakon series was a unexpected surprise. It's been a long time since a book swept me in and kept me enraptured until the very end.
The well designed cover was the first thing that caught my attention so i decided to give this book a chance.
I love the writing and how the story goes from the very first pages. A strong direct narrative and a wild parade of vivid scenes evoke mixed emotions of anger, pity and awe.
It starts with an ordeal of the children of a tribe, that are being tested ruthlessly against their will, in a struggle for survival where only the best win or not. There it makes one question the very fabric upon which societies were built, and see the values that were formed and still influence humanity to these days.
The reader can easily draw a parallel between the trial of the tribe and the famous “heroe's journey” as narrated by the man himself Joseph Campbell.
The book unfolds in two stories that go hand in hand and complement each other in a strange way that seems to be revealed later on in the series.
This book is trully an amazing read and I can't recommend it enough!
The well designed cover was the first thing that caught my attention so i decided to give this book a chance.
I love the writing and how the story goes from the very first pages. A strong direct narrative and a wild parade of vivid scenes evoke mixed emotions of anger, pity and awe.
It starts with an ordeal of the children of a tribe, that are being tested ruthlessly against their will, in a struggle for survival where only the best win or not. There it makes one question the very fabric upon which societies were built, and see the values that were formed and still influence humanity to these days.
The reader can easily draw a parallel between the trial of the tribe and the famous “heroe's journey” as narrated by the man himself Joseph Campbell.
The book unfolds in two stories that go hand in hand and complement each other in a strange way that seems to be revealed later on in the series.
This book is trully an amazing read and I can't recommend it enough!
November 28, 2020
A violent coming of age tale of vengeance set in a world that feels like medieval times Eastern Europe. I expected it a bit more dense but it turned to be more like a harsher Red Rising kind of story. Catchy and fast reading. I liked the setting with the pagan beliefs and stories, and there was a twist that I thought that it would raise my interest but by the end I was a bit disappointed.
February 7, 2019
Back when the book came out, I remember reading the synopsis on its back and being a bit confused whether or not this was supposed to be a historic (booooooo!!!!) or a fantasy (yay!!!!!!!) novel. When peer reviews convinced me to give it a try, I was surprised to find out it was a little bit of both: this is a pretty down to earth fantasy novel, set some time during the Byzantine era, where a group of barbarians are raiding a thinly-veiled Byzantium.
The protagonist is one of the Barbarians and this part of the novel chronicles his upbringing. The sieve is a training all children have to go through, and it reminds of Ancient Sparta (the tribe of the protagonist is a hodge-podge of Spartans, Huns, Mongols and the author's imagination). The hard tests he has to endure, his friendships and rivalries, the tribe's legends are being seen as he chronicles his life to a monk, years later.
The two narators ( the Barbarian and the Monk) have very distinct voices. The characters are memorable and jumping out of the page at every chance.
Overall, this is a great work of pseudohistorical fiction. There is interesting worldbuilding to engage a fantasy reader, but also a grounded story to appeal to historical fiction fans. The setting (Barbarians trying to raid Byzantium) is also fresh.
Readers should probably sink your teeth into it, definetely worth your time.
The protagonist is one of the Barbarians and this part of the novel chronicles his upbringing. The sieve is a training all children have to go through, and it reminds of Ancient Sparta (the tribe of the protagonist is a hodge-podge of Spartans, Huns, Mongols and the author's imagination). The hard tests he has to endure, his friendships and rivalries, the tribe's legends are being seen as he chronicles his life to a monk, years later.
The two narators ( the Barbarian and the Monk) have very distinct voices. The characters are memorable and jumping out of the page at every chance.
Overall, this is a great work of pseudohistorical fiction. There is interesting worldbuilding to engage a fantasy reader, but also a grounded story to appeal to historical fiction fans. The setting (Barbarians trying to raid Byzantium) is also fresh.
Readers should probably sink your teeth into it, definetely worth your time.
May 9, 2017
I've already read the greek version, I just finished the english one.
I had a really good time reading this book. It was dark and grim and at times brutal, but you have to respect a writer who writes like he’s not a delicate flower. Characters were well-drawn and the plot is thick and kinda unexpected. I read the second volume straight away and I can’t wait for volumes III and IV.
I had a really good time reading this book. It was dark and grim and at times brutal, but you have to respect a writer who writes like he’s not a delicate flower. Characters were well-drawn and the plot is thick and kinda unexpected. I read the second volume straight away and I can’t wait for volumes III and IV.
September 15, 2016
A story of man dealing with the dark, his enemies, his own fears and limitations, his human need to become important. Sometimes the most difficult barriers come from our inside and the author makes sure that we don't forget this. While reading the book I found myself in a mythical world full of fear and brutality, where people need to struggle just to survive, a world that probably none of us would like to live in. For Da-Ren it's not the desire to become a leader or a hero that drives his efforts, it's just his only way out of his misery and dark fate, his prescribed misfortune. In this first book of the series there are no battles or epic scenes, but we do get a good picture of how children of the tribe turn into warriors, some of the tribe's tales, some of the scenery and a lot of anticipation of what will happen next in the series. I'm giving five stars to this first "episode" not because it's some kind of masterpiece, but because it made me feel and think like being there and that's enough for me. I will not comment on details of style or language, as I am not an expert on that, so my review is focused solely on the story and how it affected me. Good job, can't wait to read the next book.
January 12, 2018
It is a great first book for a series. The reader is introduced to the new world the author created along with the customs and the way this people live their everyday life. We get to see and acknowledge who hard it is for Da-Ren to get through and what emotional effect this life was on him. Throughout the book we see a whole bunch of images and marvelous landscapes.
Although it s an appealing story, with an exciting plot and strong characters, both lead and side characters, I feel that the author could put a bit more effort, not at the story itself, but at the way he writes. Plus it contains so many scenes with graphic details with no warning, which is ok for me but it sure need a though stomach to read.
Having read both this and the original Greek version of the book I do feel a bit disappointed. I did expect it to be much better in English but now that I've read both versions, I can't say that I enjoyed it that much in English. I prefer it in its original version. There just was something missing for me and I do have positive thoughts that the next book will be better.
For more reviews feel free to check my blog https://helenasbooks670176047.wordpre...
Although it s an appealing story, with an exciting plot and strong characters, both lead and side characters, I feel that the author could put a bit more effort, not at the story itself, but at the way he writes. Plus it contains so many scenes with graphic details with no warning, which is ok for me but it sure need a though stomach to read.
Having read both this and the original Greek version of the book I do feel a bit disappointed. I did expect it to be much better in English but now that I've read both versions, I can't say that I enjoyed it that much in English. I prefer it in its original version. There just was something missing for me and I do have positive thoughts that the next book will be better.
For more reviews feel free to check my blog https://helenasbooks670176047.wordpre...
September 13, 2016
before anything else i have to give my credits to the author for putting in place an amazing story that is so strong as life itself. this is a fiction so real that very few books can achieve. it is a story of humanity that walks its path inbetween love, fights, superstition, religion, deception, sin and search for forgiveness. it is a story about the worst and the best creature of this world; the human. All of our fears and all of our hopes are in there, put altogether in a struggle for life, survival, creation, evolution and about breaking the burdens and chains that hold us back from exploring ourselves and the world. And when we break these chains we might find nothing but emptiness but still that was the only path to walk for being more than a human, for what is our destiny. This is a book with great philosophical questions put in place. Answers? there are many, but the true value is not in the answers. It is in those questions still not answered, it is in the quest for the remaining answers.
Looking fwd the next chapter/book of this story
Looking fwd the next chapter/book of this story
November 20, 2016
Wow! Not the kind of book I'd normally read, but it blew me away! It is fast paced and full of action, but it is the first person narrative that makes it so powerful. Fantasy worlds are not my cup of tea, but this one is so realistic, and clearly so well researched, that I loved it. No magic or strange creatures, just people brainwashed by powerful stories full of symbolism and dark beauty, but also fuelling racism and bigotry. A thought-provoking book on how stories can poison but also redeem. Highly recommended.
March 27, 2017
I absolutely love exploring new worlds through an authors imagination. This book took me to a place that was dark, mysterious and new. I couldn't put it down.
The author does a great job of developing the story by flipping between narrators. You are never lost, and you can pick it up anywhere in the progression and know who is speaking.
I would have loved to had more character development and back story, but hey that's what books 2 and 3 are for right?!
No spoilers here, just read it. I loved the new world and mysterious feel.
The author does a great job of developing the story by flipping between narrators. You are never lost, and you can pick it up anywhere in the progression and know who is speaking.
I would have loved to had more character development and back story, but hey that's what books 2 and 3 are for right?!
No spoilers here, just read it. I loved the new world and mysterious feel.
March 14, 2017
If the ratings were held within the context of various genres, I'd rate this a four or even a four and a half (if half stars were an option) within fantasy. It's deceivingly page turning. While it seems simplistic, it explores some complex ideas about society, religion and sacrifice. I was pleasantly surprised and look forward to the next installment.
March 28, 2017
I’ve never heard of this author before, but I saw an advertisement and it piqued my interest. I am not sure it is a fantasy novel, there is a sense of mystique and a hint of the supernatural throughout the book but nothing definite yet.
But, damn, this is brutal. We read about a tribe of barbarians as the protagonist, an orphan boy, gets trained in a very hard regime (one can say cruel) that reminds me of the Spartans. There are some great moments and the pace is non-stop.
I loved the language, it is both vulgar and poetic at the same time.
There is also a second narrative, about a monk transcribing the protagonist’s story in a monastery that seems to be somewhere in the Aegian sea during the byzantine era, and I am a sucker for non-western medieval stories so I could not but love it.
There is a huge downside to the book though: once you finish it, you have to read book 2 as soon as possible.
But, damn, this is brutal. We read about a tribe of barbarians as the protagonist, an orphan boy, gets trained in a very hard regime (one can say cruel) that reminds me of the Spartans. There are some great moments and the pace is non-stop.
I loved the language, it is both vulgar and poetic at the same time.
There is also a second narrative, about a monk transcribing the protagonist’s story in a monastery that seems to be somewhere in the Aegian sea during the byzantine era, and I am a sucker for non-western medieval stories so I could not but love it.
There is a huge downside to the book though: once you finish it, you have to read book 2 as soon as possible.
June 26, 2017
Well the last few months, so far, have been full of good reads for me and I'm pleased to say that this adds to them. The story is around our hero Da-Ran, who we initially meet as a barbarian asking for help from priests in a monastery and then as a child as he re-tells his life story. This I understand is the first in a series of books, and it's a cracking start.
It is very much like The Hunger games and Maze runner, meets Genghis Khan as tribes take children into trials to develop future leaders, warriors, archers but at the same time filter out and lose the weaker one's along the way. And at times this book does have a dark, cruel side, but definitely doesn't take anything away from the story. Adds to it. The story flows brilliantly and the author has done a fantastic job in keeping you interested and wanting to read more throughout to find out what happens next! Who survives. Who passed the next trial. What superstitions are real. I got through this book very quickly, which is a clear indication of a good, entertaining and gripping read.
Definitely wanting to follow this series, and author!
It is very much like The Hunger games and Maze runner, meets Genghis Khan as tribes take children into trials to develop future leaders, warriors, archers but at the same time filter out and lose the weaker one's along the way. And at times this book does have a dark, cruel side, but definitely doesn't take anything away from the story. Adds to it. The story flows brilliantly and the author has done a fantastic job in keeping you interested and wanting to read more throughout to find out what happens next! Who survives. Who passed the next trial. What superstitions are real. I got through this book very quickly, which is a clear indication of a good, entertaining and gripping read.
Definitely wanting to follow this series, and author!
April 20, 2017
Got me interested
This is a short book but I get the feeling that the story is well planned out. The level of writing is high and I'm definitely going to follow this tale.
This is a short book but I get the feeling that the story is well planned out. The level of writing is high and I'm definitely going to follow this tale.
June 6, 2017
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
So, I don’t know what to say here, guys. I may not have finished this if I hadn’t already promised to write a review. There were several times when I thought I should just set it aside and mark it as DNF, but I feel obligated to write since I was sent a promotional copy.
This book isn’t terrible, but it’s not what I would call good either. I am genuinely puzzled at the high scoring reviews here.
Many of the other reviewers are remarking about having read it in the original Greek, so maybe the issue is the translation, as I found the prose to be more journeyman as opposed to the "poetic" narrative that was advertised. I found the purple language strained, and elements used for shock value rather silly and over the top, as were the publisher’s multiple warnings about how it’s “unsuitable for children or young readers.” The warning is true, but no more true than for any other grimdark novel. I think the concern is that physically it is a short book, and the print edition is set in a very large type, so at least it print it could be mistaken as a young adult novel.
There is some good world building here around the tribal culture that the protagonist originates. Their politics, mystics, and warrior cultures are a good base to build upon. There are hints of future plot lines surrounding superstition, racism, and oppression. Hence the second star.
I think what it comes down to is that this may not have been structured correctly, and that Book 1 doesn’t stand on its own. That’s a shame as I’m sure that the other reviewers who have read the whole series in the original Greek are probably correct that there’s something worth experiencing here, but I won’t be reading on.
Another note: I wish the publisher had disclosed that the author was the founder and CEO of the publishing house at the time of distribution.
So, I don’t know what to say here, guys. I may not have finished this if I hadn’t already promised to write a review. There were several times when I thought I should just set it aside and mark it as DNF, but I feel obligated to write since I was sent a promotional copy.
This book isn’t terrible, but it’s not what I would call good either. I am genuinely puzzled at the high scoring reviews here.
Many of the other reviewers are remarking about having read it in the original Greek, so maybe the issue is the translation, as I found the prose to be more journeyman as opposed to the "poetic" narrative that was advertised. I found the purple language strained, and elements used for shock value rather silly and over the top, as were the publisher’s multiple warnings about how it’s “unsuitable for children or young readers.” The warning is true, but no more true than for any other grimdark novel. I think the concern is that physically it is a short book, and the print edition is set in a very large type, so at least it print it could be mistaken as a young adult novel.
There is some good world building here around the tribal culture that the protagonist originates. Their politics, mystics, and warrior cultures are a good base to build upon. There are hints of future plot lines surrounding superstition, racism, and oppression. Hence the second star.
I think what it comes down to is that this may not have been structured correctly, and that Book 1 doesn’t stand on its own. That’s a shame as I’m sure that the other reviewers who have read the whole series in the original Greek are probably correct that there’s something worth experiencing here, but I won’t be reading on.
Another note: I wish the publisher had disclosed that the author was the founder and CEO of the publishing house at the time of distribution.
March 24, 2017
Please note that this review applies to the book series (The Sieve & Uncarved). This is a haunting, captivating book that immerses you in its lyricism only to drown you in its barbarism a couple of pages later. It exerts a brute force onto your mind and soul and claims a piece of 'you' by digging deep into the essence of human nature.
Despite the fact that it is set in an arbitrary time and place (that vaguely hints to a clash between the East and the West, around the time of the Byzantine Empire maybe?), it is a political book with many references to today's political status quo, with the resurgence of populism, shallow beliefs, "easy" answers and the cultivated need for a messiah that will save us from ourselves. The fight for freedom of spirit and the need to go against the current are at its core. The beauty and the struggles of the "free man" are themes that resurfaces throughout its pages.
Lastly, it is of course a book about love: earthly love; first love; risky love that makes no sense; love that is desperate; love that does not conquer all; love that lives on against all odds.
I couldn't stop reading it. Highly recommended!
Despite the fact that it is set in an arbitrary time and place (that vaguely hints to a clash between the East and the West, around the time of the Byzantine Empire maybe?), it is a political book with many references to today's political status quo, with the resurgence of populism, shallow beliefs, "easy" answers and the cultivated need for a messiah that will save us from ourselves. The fight for freedom of spirit and the need to go against the current are at its core. The beauty and the struggles of the "free man" are themes that resurfaces throughout its pages.
Lastly, it is of course a book about love: earthly love; first love; risky love that makes no sense; love that is desperate; love that does not conquer all; love that lives on against all odds.
I couldn't stop reading it. Highly recommended!
September 3, 2016
Brilliant! This the first thing I read from Caskabel and the pace is amazing.
September 20, 2016
Absolutely brilliant!
June 26, 2020
Today I want to share with you an interesting reading I had firstly received from NatGalley, but had to finally buy it in Amazon as I lost the deadline to download it.
Well, better late than never, so here I am to talk about the Drakon Book I: The Sieve. It is the first book of a series of 4 (The Sieve, Uncarved, Firstblade, and Butterfly) from C.A. Caskabel.
For those who enjoy a reading like The Game of Thrones, with intrigues, conflicts, deep-built characters, this is an excellent option!
It tells the stories of Da-Ren and of Sara, and it alternates between their days as children and then adults. It is a bit confusing in the beginning, but soon you understand how their lives are connected, and when you have the full picture of the plot, oh my, the book ends and leaves you dying for the next.
Totally recommended, a page-turner, and I will definitely read the remaining 3 books!
Happy reading everyone!
DK
Well, better late than never, so here I am to talk about the Drakon Book I: The Sieve. It is the first book of a series of 4 (The Sieve, Uncarved, Firstblade, and Butterfly) from C.A. Caskabel.
For those who enjoy a reading like The Game of Thrones, with intrigues, conflicts, deep-built characters, this is an excellent option!
It tells the stories of Da-Ren and of Sara, and it alternates between their days as children and then adults. It is a bit confusing in the beginning, but soon you understand how their lives are connected, and when you have the full picture of the plot, oh my, the book ends and leaves you dying for the next.
Totally recommended, a page-turner, and I will definitely read the remaining 3 books!
Happy reading everyone!
DK
July 18, 2017
I received a physical copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, so thank you to the publisher and the author!
This novel was a fantastic start to a new fantasy series. This novel was nothing like I expected, the synopsis did not do it any justice.
I absolutely loved the character development and just the characters in general.
The plot was very well written and brutal.
I loved that C.A. Caskabel was not afraid to push boundaries and make everything so intense and awful.
But awful in the best way.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I haven't read much adult fantasy but this is one I'd definitely recommend!
This novel was a fantastic start to a new fantasy series. This novel was nothing like I expected, the synopsis did not do it any justice.
I absolutely loved the character development and just the characters in general.
The plot was very well written and brutal.
I loved that C.A. Caskabel was not afraid to push boundaries and make everything so intense and awful.
But awful in the best way.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I haven't read much adult fantasy but this is one I'd definitely recommend!
March 3, 2018
Great book
This book is about how a society is formed and how the different groups that contribute to the society are chosen. This book shows the reader the underbelly or behind the scenes struggles of the people of the society. It is a very interesting book and I recommend it.
This book is about how a society is formed and how the different groups that contribute to the society are chosen. This book shows the reader the underbelly or behind the scenes struggles of the people of the society. It is a very interesting book and I recommend it.
June 3, 2017
Nonstop Enthralling Narative
There is better way to put it, this all to brief book takes you, doesn't let go and makes you want more.
There is better way to put it, this all to brief book takes you, doesn't let go and makes you want more.
May 15, 2017
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
Drakon Book 1: The Sieve is the first installment in the Drakon series, and starts off strong. Da-Ren is an infidel barbarian who has fled to the Castlemonastery, where he offers a jar of honey in return for redemption for his wife and daughter. The monks ask Da-Ren to tell them their story, which he does. This book focuses mostly on Da-Ren’s earl yyears, growing up in a tribe of warriors and pagan witches.
The Sieve is a ritual all children in Da-Ren’s tribe have to go through, a forty-day initiation trial. Many will fall, but the strong will join the warriors of their clan, and an elite few will become leaders of their clan. The trials are brutal, and Da-Ren’s capabilities are tested to their limits.
Da-Ren is an intriguing character. He has a lot of qualities, but equally as many flaws. The story he tells the monks is heartbreaking but also shows us a glimpse of his world, with their own myths and traditions and stories, and I enjoyed getting to know Da-Ren’s tribe and their culture. The plot moved fast, the writing showed a good distinction between the parts told to the reader by Da-Ren himself, and the parts told by the monk helping to spread his story.
Overall, this was an excellent fantasy novel. I hope the world gets expanded in the next few books but for a first book, it’s perfect – we get just the right amount of world-building without getting lost in the details. Recommended to anyone who enjoys a solid fantasy novel.
Drakon Book 1: The Sieve is the first installment in the Drakon series, and starts off strong. Da-Ren is an infidel barbarian who has fled to the Castlemonastery, where he offers a jar of honey in return for redemption for his wife and daughter. The monks ask Da-Ren to tell them their story, which he does. This book focuses mostly on Da-Ren’s earl yyears, growing up in a tribe of warriors and pagan witches.
The Sieve is a ritual all children in Da-Ren’s tribe have to go through, a forty-day initiation trial. Many will fall, but the strong will join the warriors of their clan, and an elite few will become leaders of their clan. The trials are brutal, and Da-Ren’s capabilities are tested to their limits.
Da-Ren is an intriguing character. He has a lot of qualities, but equally as many flaws. The story he tells the monks is heartbreaking but also shows us a glimpse of his world, with their own myths and traditions and stories, and I enjoyed getting to know Da-Ren’s tribe and their culture. The plot moved fast, the writing showed a good distinction between the parts told to the reader by Da-Ren himself, and the parts told by the monk helping to spread his story.
Overall, this was an excellent fantasy novel. I hope the world gets expanded in the next few books but for a first book, it’s perfect – we get just the right amount of world-building without getting lost in the details. Recommended to anyone who enjoys a solid fantasy novel.
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