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The Dragon Songs Saga #2
Orchestra of Treacheries
Alternate cover and title edition for The Dragon Charmer
Kaiya’s voice could charm a dragon.
It’s been two years since she put down a rebellion with the magic of the Dragon Scale Lute. With the instrument destroyed, her musical talents are inconsequential compared to her value as the last unmarried child of the ailing emperor.
Potential suitors see her as a stepping stone. One ruthless cousin would rather step on her gravestone. Not one to get walked over or buried, Kaiya is holding out for the exiled foreign prince who inspired her to sing. The only one who appreciates her abilities more is the world’s last dragon, Avarax, and it’s not because he enjoys a good song.
Conspiracies eat away at the empire from the inside, while aggressive neighbors wait to consume what’s left. Raw and unproven, Kaiya faces tasks worthy of an imperial princess: defuse escalating conflicts between rival lords. Negotiate peace with foreign powers. Vanquish a dragon.
The magic of her voice is untrained. However, as crisis jolts her from a pampered palace life into an adventure of court intrigue and international diplomacy, Kaiya finds mentors in unlikely places. An elf courtier. An ancient healer. A martial arts master. And an evil sorcerer. She’ll need their guidance to survive the final showdown between a girl finding her voice, and a dragon who has no intention of being fooled a second time.
Kaiya’s voice could charm a dragon.
It’s been two years since she put down a rebellion with the magic of the Dragon Scale Lute. With the instrument destroyed, her musical talents are inconsequential compared to her value as the last unmarried child of the ailing emperor.
Potential suitors see her as a stepping stone. One ruthless cousin would rather step on her gravestone. Not one to get walked over or buried, Kaiya is holding out for the exiled foreign prince who inspired her to sing. The only one who appreciates her abilities more is the world’s last dragon, Avarax, and it’s not because he enjoys a good song.
Conspiracies eat away at the empire from the inside, while aggressive neighbors wait to consume what’s left. Raw and unproven, Kaiya faces tasks worthy of an imperial princess: defuse escalating conflicts between rival lords. Negotiate peace with foreign powers. Vanquish a dragon.
The magic of her voice is untrained. However, as crisis jolts her from a pampered palace life into an adventure of court intrigue and international diplomacy, Kaiya finds mentors in unlikely places. An elf courtier. An ancient healer. A martial arts master. And an evil sorcerer. She’ll need their guidance to survive the final showdown between a girl finding her voice, and a dragon who has no intention of being fooled a second time.
584 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2016
62 people are currently reading
594 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Kang
37 books457 followersJC Kang's unhealthy obsession with Fantasy and Sci-Fi began at an early age when his brother introduced him to The Chronicles of Narnia, Star Trek, and Star Wars. As an adult, he combines his geek roots with his professional experiences as a Chinese Medicine doctor, martial arts instructor, and technical writer to pen epic fantasy stories.
To learn more about what goes on in his twisted mind, follow his Facebook page:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 29, 2021
Thank you once again to JC Kang for the review copy.
Orchestra of Treacheriesis the second book in the supremely fun Dragon Songs Saga, which follows the Princess Kaiya, as she learns to wield the power of her song, and the power of her title. Lessons she needs to learn quickly, because in a country on the verge of a power shift, there are plenty of ambitious people waiting in the wings who would love to help speed things along with or without Kaiya in the picture.
**
Two years has made a big difference with Kaiya, she has blossomed, physically and mentally. She has gained knowledge in her time sitting on the council that has gone a long way into helping her grow-up, but still, naivety is something that gets beat down with life and/or betrayals over time so, we still see the occasional moments of her youth in her decisions, and in trusting too easily.
Just as in the first book there are a lot of characters in this series. Filled with double-dealing and side-games the political intrigue is overflowing with our players quests to get their horse in the running. And all of them want Kaiya, and the power she represents, as the last unmarried daughter of a dying emperor.
Sometimes it can be hard to keep up with especially with the titles to keep the names very similar sounding but I did find them a lot easier to follow in this book. Maybe because I had met them previously and it’s only been a few months since I read the first book, or maybe just because the players kind of fell to two-sides outside of Kaiya’s, and it was easier to keep track of who was backstabbing who.
**
The setting as usual, is gorgeous and I feel like I am watching a historical Chinese drama with the beautiful palace grounds, and costumes, music, etc. It’s just lovely and I can’t say enough about the little details that show us everything from the court’s inner workings and hierarchy, to something as simple as getting those overly large sleeves on the gowns, to lay down prettily while in a bow. I think the palace setting is my favourite part of these stories and I hate leaving its beauty behind for the reality of life outside of it.
That said, I mentioned in the first review one of the things I admire about these stories, is the contrast between that palace life, the opulence, intrigues and hidden threats, contrasted to the world outside of the palace, where its dangers, poverty, and ugliness are on display for all to see.
*
Other notes-
This feels like a middle book as we see a lot of the other two-sides plans- filling out the motivation of their greed, and not as much of Kaiya and her studies.
Everyone’s favourite elf Jie, returns for this story and she is always a lot of fun, though her role was a bit smaller in this book.
I missed Tian, but I really enjoyed his brother, Zheng Ming. The author assures me that Tian, will return and I am looking forward to having him back, plus I had him pegged in the last book as male lead (You know, if this was a drama) and eventual husband material for Kaiya, so I need to have my other theory proven right. Which by the way, I am pleased to say, I was totally right about my prior thoughts on Harkeep- which I hinted at in the last review….it kills me not to talk about it but spoilers abound.
Orchestra of Treacheriesis the second book in the supremely fun Dragon Songs Saga, which follows the Princess Kaiya, as she learns to wield the power of her song, and the power of her title. Lessons she needs to learn quickly, because in a country on the verge of a power shift, there are plenty of ambitious people waiting in the wings who would love to help speed things along with or without Kaiya in the picture.
**
Two years has made a big difference with Kaiya, she has blossomed, physically and mentally. She has gained knowledge in her time sitting on the council that has gone a long way into helping her grow-up, but still, naivety is something that gets beat down with life and/or betrayals over time so, we still see the occasional moments of her youth in her decisions, and in trusting too easily.
Just as in the first book there are a lot of characters in this series. Filled with double-dealing and side-games the political intrigue is overflowing with our players quests to get their horse in the running. And all of them want Kaiya, and the power she represents, as the last unmarried daughter of a dying emperor.
Sometimes it can be hard to keep up with especially with the titles to keep the names very similar sounding but I did find them a lot easier to follow in this book. Maybe because I had met them previously and it’s only been a few months since I read the first book, or maybe just because the players kind of fell to two-sides outside of Kaiya’s, and it was easier to keep track of who was backstabbing who.
**
The setting as usual, is gorgeous and I feel like I am watching a historical Chinese drama with the beautiful palace grounds, and costumes, music, etc. It’s just lovely and I can’t say enough about the little details that show us everything from the court’s inner workings and hierarchy, to something as simple as getting those overly large sleeves on the gowns, to lay down prettily while in a bow. I think the palace setting is my favourite part of these stories and I hate leaving its beauty behind for the reality of life outside of it.
That said, I mentioned in the first review one of the things I admire about these stories, is the contrast between that palace life, the opulence, intrigues and hidden threats, contrasted to the world outside of the palace, where its dangers, poverty, and ugliness are on display for all to see.
*
Other notes-
This feels like a middle book as we see a lot of the other two-sides plans- filling out the motivation of their greed, and not as much of Kaiya and her studies.
Everyone’s favourite elf Jie, returns for this story and she is always a lot of fun, though her role was a bit smaller in this book.
I missed Tian, but I really enjoyed his brother, Zheng Ming. The author assures me that Tian, will return and I am looking forward to having him back, plus I had him pegged in the last book as male lead (You know, if this was a drama) and eventual husband material for Kaiya, so I need to have my other theory proven right. Which by the way, I am pleased to say, I was totally right about my prior thoughts on Harkeep- which I hinted at in the last review….it kills me not to talk about it but spoilers abound.
September 26, 2016
Picking up two years after the events of the Dragon Scale Lute, this book wastes no time plunging you right back into the intricacies and intrigues of court life in this wonderfully realised oriental setting.
Princess Kaiya has grown up, though she’s still open to emotional manipulation, despite being incredibly astute about her world and its politics. She’s also blossomed into a beauty that men now desire, quite apart from wanting her for her status. But is magic responsible for her ‘ugly duckling’ transformation, and does that mean someone unknown is meddling in her life again?
The language used in this book is flowery – in a really good way. Such beautiful descriptions, you can almost smell the gardens, see the blossom, and partake of the ceremonies right along with the characters.
Each and every individual is so well developed, they leap right off the page, and they all continue to grow and change as the book (and the plots) progress. It was fascinating to watch individual plans clash, augment, and often derail each other, twisting the story in unexpected directions.
The political manoeuvring and more deadly deceit is breathtaking in its abundance and complexity – spies and assassins, wheels within wheels, plots within plots, and every character with their own agenda – fabulous!
And finally, despite setting out on another mission altogether, Kaiya ends up pitting her wits against the dragon, Avarax – but you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book. I thoroughly resented having to put it down each evening when sleep became essential.
Disclaimer: I received this book in return for an unbiased review, which in absolutely no way influenced my opinions – I can’t wait to read the next one!
Princess Kaiya has grown up, though she’s still open to emotional manipulation, despite being incredibly astute about her world and its politics. She’s also blossomed into a beauty that men now desire, quite apart from wanting her for her status. But is magic responsible for her ‘ugly duckling’ transformation, and does that mean someone unknown is meddling in her life again?
The language used in this book is flowery – in a really good way. Such beautiful descriptions, you can almost smell the gardens, see the blossom, and partake of the ceremonies right along with the characters.
Each and every individual is so well developed, they leap right off the page, and they all continue to grow and change as the book (and the plots) progress. It was fascinating to watch individual plans clash, augment, and often derail each other, twisting the story in unexpected directions.
The political manoeuvring and more deadly deceit is breathtaking in its abundance and complexity – spies and assassins, wheels within wheels, plots within plots, and every character with their own agenda – fabulous!
And finally, despite setting out on another mission altogether, Kaiya ends up pitting her wits against the dragon, Avarax – but you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book. I thoroughly resented having to put it down each evening when sleep became essential.
Disclaimer: I received this book in return for an unbiased review, which in absolutely no way influenced my opinions – I can’t wait to read the next one!
December 14, 2020
Shelving this as a book I've edited while I've actually just proofread the re-release of this book. I'll write up a Thing about how great it is and put it on my website soon-ish.
Read
February 11, 2017 In the first book, I thought that the protagonist Princess Kaiya was too inexperienced to have good judgment. Her impulsiveness moved the plot in unexpected directions. The author assured me that this would change in Dragon Charmer. So I looked forward to learning how Kaiya would develop. I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.
In Dragon Charmer, the people and situations that Kaiya encounters often aren't what they seem to be. They are the unpredictable factors that drive the plot rather than Kaiya's behavior. She didn't let these revelations unhinge her. She took them in stride. She acted decisively as a leader and a hero must act in a crisis. I was favorably impressed with Kaiya's growth.
For my complete review see http://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/20...
In Dragon Charmer, the people and situations that Kaiya encounters often aren't what they seem to be. They are the unpredictable factors that drive the plot rather than Kaiya's behavior. She didn't let these revelations unhinge her. She took them in stride. She acted decisively as a leader and a hero must act in a crisis. I was favorably impressed with Kaiya's growth.
For my complete review see http://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/20...
July 23, 2016
Just when you thought JC Kang's storytelling couldn't get any better. Dragon Charmer returns to Princess Kaiya two years after the first book in the series 'Dragon Scale Lute' ends. No longer an awkward, plain girl, Kaiya has blossomed into a graceful beauty that has every eligible lord vying for her hand in marriage. But she's more than just a princess or a pretty wife. For, not only has she blossomed in beauty but also in magical talents.
But will it be enough to save her people from the dragon Avarax?
JC Kang has created a world steeped in magic, wrapped in a political power struggle and sprinkled with an eclectic mixture of beings and legends that will make your inner fantasy geek squeal with glee.
I loved the infusion of different cultures and how they represent separate states, yet when mixed together form something beautiful. Sort of how a Renoir painting is made of thousands of tiny dots up close, but when you step back it morphs into something breathtaking. That's the world JC Kang has built. You don't see how all of the intricate plots weave to form the ending, until it gets there and, yes, it is a very beautiful thing to behold.
I'm hooked on this universe and CANNOT WAIT for the next book. If you love fantasy, brilliantly written characters and a mesmerising filagree of interwoven intrigues; treason, murder, betrayal, heroism, loyalty, friendship, love and so much more, you will LOVE Dragon Charmer.
*I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.*
But will it be enough to save her people from the dragon Avarax?
JC Kang has created a world steeped in magic, wrapped in a political power struggle and sprinkled with an eclectic mixture of beings and legends that will make your inner fantasy geek squeal with glee.
I loved the infusion of different cultures and how they represent separate states, yet when mixed together form something beautiful. Sort of how a Renoir painting is made of thousands of tiny dots up close, but when you step back it morphs into something breathtaking. That's the world JC Kang has built. You don't see how all of the intricate plots weave to form the ending, until it gets there and, yes, it is a very beautiful thing to behold.
I'm hooked on this universe and CANNOT WAIT for the next book. If you love fantasy, brilliantly written characters and a mesmerising filagree of interwoven intrigues; treason, murder, betrayal, heroism, loyalty, friendship, love and so much more, you will LOVE Dragon Charmer.
*I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.*
July 4, 2017
I am in awe of the worldbuild behind this series. It's one of the most finely detailed I have seen. Similar enough to Old China and India to be recognisable, yet each nation is distinctively itself. The fantasy elements are well integrated and are not overdone.
It may seem odd to use the word 'restraint' of a book so rich, so complex and so teeming with ornate detail, yet it is restraint that distinguishes this writer for me. He is at all times in control of his story, and the result is a beautifully balanced work.
I hope this series continues for a long, long time. I've become addicted to the scheming courtiers, the brave and beautiful heroine, her wisecracking sidekick and just the whole thing. It's like Monkey Magic crossed with Yes, Minister. I love, love, love it.
It may seem odd to use the word 'restraint' of a book so rich, so complex and so teeming with ornate detail, yet it is restraint that distinguishes this writer for me. He is at all times in control of his story, and the result is a beautifully balanced work.
I hope this series continues for a long, long time. I've become addicted to the scheming courtiers, the brave and beautiful heroine, her wisecracking sidekick and just the whole thing. It's like Monkey Magic crossed with Yes, Minister. I love, love, love it.
May 2, 2019
-_-
The last 10% had the 1% of action I was looking for.
The last 10% had the 1% of action I was looking for.
February 6, 2019
Orchestra of Treacheries is the sequel to Songs of Insurrection. I read the latter when it came across my radar a while back. I finally got around to Orchestra of Treacheries and I had pretty high expectations for where things were going to go after the first entry in the series. This sequel ended up being a little bit of a mixed bag, however.
To begin, there is a great deal to like about Orchestra of Treacheries. Kang’s world building is extravagant and fascinating on every level. One of the things I loved about Treacheries was that we were treated to a much wider view of the world than in the first book in the series. This means we’re able to see more cultures, more cities, more geography, and all of it shines. There are myriad small touches, from phrases to customs to interactions between people that reveal just how much care Kang has put into this world. The history and legends of the world are deep enough that even after two full novels it feels like we have only scratched the surface of this world. The magic system continues to be enticing, as well. There are hints of a much deeper system, but we get to see Kaiya growing into her power as someone who can manipulate emotions through her music. It’s interesting that no where does Kaiya or another character question the morality of manipulating someone in this way. Nevertheless, while the magic system remains mysterious it’s definitely something I enjoyed seeing more of. I was engaged throughout, the story itself having a certain je ne sais quoi, something that just keeps you reading and engaged.
While I enjoyed the setting and magic, I found other elements of the novel frustrating. My main frustration was with the first two thirds or so of the novel, where the protagonists know next to nothing about what the antagonists are doing, and thus make no moves whatsoever to stop them. Even once the protagonists start being proactive about doing things, rather than reactive, they don’t know much of what the actual enemy factions are doing. This creates almost the feel of two novels—the novel that the “good guys” know about and act in, and the secret novel shown through viewpoints of the “bad guys” where basically the protagonists do exactly what the antagonists want them to do, without knowing they are, falling perfectly into their plans. If something doesn’t go well for the antagonists, it’s because they’ve gotten in each others’ way, there being something like three or four antagonist factions. While I like things to be challenging for the protagonists, I do want them to eventually take steps to actually overcome the antagonists. On a related note, Kaiya—while not nearly as naïve as in Insurrection—is not a character I particularly connect with. One of my favorite characters from the first book, Jie, essentially gets stuck being Kaiya’s babysitter and my other favorite character from that book, Tian, is nowhere to be seen. No doubt this lack of connection affected my enjoyment of the story, and so others may have a very different reaction.
For me, Orchestra of Treacheries, is a story with a wonderfully crafted setting, unique magic, and an overarching plot that hints at enticing elements. All these are tempered somewhat by an MC that I don’t connect with and a story that makes the antagonists far more interesting than the protagonists. Even so, I’ll be picking up the next book to see where things go.
3.25/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
To begin, there is a great deal to like about Orchestra of Treacheries. Kang’s world building is extravagant and fascinating on every level. One of the things I loved about Treacheries was that we were treated to a much wider view of the world than in the first book in the series. This means we’re able to see more cultures, more cities, more geography, and all of it shines. There are myriad small touches, from phrases to customs to interactions between people that reveal just how much care Kang has put into this world. The history and legends of the world are deep enough that even after two full novels it feels like we have only scratched the surface of this world. The magic system continues to be enticing, as well. There are hints of a much deeper system, but we get to see Kaiya growing into her power as someone who can manipulate emotions through her music. It’s interesting that no where does Kaiya or another character question the morality of manipulating someone in this way. Nevertheless, while the magic system remains mysterious it’s definitely something I enjoyed seeing more of. I was engaged throughout, the story itself having a certain je ne sais quoi, something that just keeps you reading and engaged.
While I enjoyed the setting and magic, I found other elements of the novel frustrating. My main frustration was with the first two thirds or so of the novel, where the protagonists know next to nothing about what the antagonists are doing, and thus make no moves whatsoever to stop them. Even once the protagonists start being proactive about doing things, rather than reactive, they don’t know much of what the actual enemy factions are doing. This creates almost the feel of two novels—the novel that the “good guys” know about and act in, and the secret novel shown through viewpoints of the “bad guys” where basically the protagonists do exactly what the antagonists want them to do, without knowing they are, falling perfectly into their plans. If something doesn’t go well for the antagonists, it’s because they’ve gotten in each others’ way, there being something like three or four antagonist factions. While I like things to be challenging for the protagonists, I do want them to eventually take steps to actually overcome the antagonists. On a related note, Kaiya—while not nearly as naïve as in Insurrection—is not a character I particularly connect with. One of my favorite characters from the first book, Jie, essentially gets stuck being Kaiya’s babysitter and my other favorite character from that book, Tian, is nowhere to be seen. No doubt this lack of connection affected my enjoyment of the story, and so others may have a very different reaction.
For me, Orchestra of Treacheries, is a story with a wonderfully crafted setting, unique magic, and an overarching plot that hints at enticing elements. All these are tempered somewhat by an MC that I don’t connect with and a story that makes the antagonists far more interesting than the protagonists. Even so, I’ll be picking up the next book to see where things go.
3.25/5 stars.
5 – I loved this, couldn’t put it down, move it to the top of your TBR pile
4 – I really enjoyed this, add it to the TBR pile
3 – It was ok, depending on your preferences it may be worth your time
2 – I didn’t like this book, it has significant flaws and I can’t recommend it
1 – I loathe this book with a most loathsome loathing
April 20, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The saying goes that the first book in a major fantasy series is normally the worst because it has to set the stage. I was brutal in my review of the first and I had my issues with it, but the author accepted my review and offered a copy of the second book in hopes that everything the first book worked up to would be worth the time I spent reading and I would enjoy it.
And I honestly was blown away by how marvelously everything came together for this book.
Complaints I had from the first book were swiftly silenced with the second. The development I wanted and answers to loose ends left me overwhelmingly satisfied and happy to read more. This book managed to catch me off guard, prove my predictions wrong, make me smile, feel the stress the characters were feeling, and made me happy I read it. It is boiling over with conspiracy and people with their own motives to take the throne. Secret deals and backstabbing galore with a new twist at every corner.
Our two main leads have developed into addicting characters who balance each other well. I made mention that their habits were kinda annoying to constantly read (hair twirling and lip biting for examples), however, I was greatly amused that they noticed each other's constant habits and mentally make fun of it in a way. The supporting cast is one that I could not imagine I would have adored so much. How every character is placed in the plot just keeps propelling it forward at a good pace. Yes, it is a bit to keep track of (especially if you are unfamiliar with Asian naming practices, Chinese in this case I believe) so I highly recommend printing out the character guide provided from the ebook version or bookmarking in physical copies to refer to if you get lost.
I immensely enjoyed the fact that we got to see more of the world JC Kang has created and I look forward to seeing more in the future installments.
Overall if you enjoyed the first book (or stuck with it in hopes the sequel will bring it together), you will not be disappointed.
The saying goes that the first book in a major fantasy series is normally the worst because it has to set the stage. I was brutal in my review of the first and I had my issues with it, but the author accepted my review and offered a copy of the second book in hopes that everything the first book worked up to would be worth the time I spent reading and I would enjoy it.
And I honestly was blown away by how marvelously everything came together for this book.
Complaints I had from the first book were swiftly silenced with the second. The development I wanted and answers to loose ends left me overwhelmingly satisfied and happy to read more. This book managed to catch me off guard, prove my predictions wrong, make me smile, feel the stress the characters were feeling, and made me happy I read it. It is boiling over with conspiracy and people with their own motives to take the throne. Secret deals and backstabbing galore with a new twist at every corner.
Our two main leads have developed into addicting characters who balance each other well. I made mention that their habits were kinda annoying to constantly read (hair twirling and lip biting for examples), however, I was greatly amused that they noticed each other's constant habits and mentally make fun of it in a way. The supporting cast is one that I could not imagine I would have adored so much. How every character is placed in the plot just keeps propelling it forward at a good pace. Yes, it is a bit to keep track of (especially if you are unfamiliar with Asian naming practices, Chinese in this case I believe) so I highly recommend printing out the character guide provided from the ebook version or bookmarking in physical copies to refer to if you get lost.
I immensely enjoyed the fact that we got to see more of the world JC Kang has created and I look forward to seeing more in the future installments.
Overall if you enjoyed the first book (or stuck with it in hopes the sequel will bring it together), you will not be disappointed.
April 15, 2021
Amazing!
This book took place 2 years after the first one, so it took me a moment to get oriented in the world and reintroduced to characters.
There was so much political intrigue, and strategy interwoven in this book and I was along for the ride.
Definitely shocked by a few reveals and twists, and loved the sprinkling of action scenes throughout to break up the less exciting moments.
Definitely excited to get my hands on the next book!
Thank you so much to JC Kang for reaching out to me and gifting me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review!
This book took place 2 years after the first one, so it took me a moment to get oriented in the world and reintroduced to characters.
There was so much political intrigue, and strategy interwoven in this book and I was along for the ride.
Definitely shocked by a few reveals and twists, and loved the sprinkling of action scenes throughout to break up the less exciting moments.
Definitely excited to get my hands on the next book!
Thank you so much to JC Kang for reaching out to me and gifting me an e-copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 10, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 ~ couldn't-put-it-down great
*full review to come*
*full review to come*
November 13, 2019
The plot had me guessing. I thought I had it all pieced together by the first half. However, by the second half of the book, I was fully absorbed into the story, found out I was wrong, and full of desire to read the rest of the novels that Kang had wrote. The thing I did not like was, that the princess was not beautiful externally.
December 5, 2025
Man…
Listen it’s a lot better than book 1. If you’re gonna read the series just skip straight to this one.
Listen it’s a lot better than book 1. If you’re gonna read the series just skip straight to this one.
April 15, 2021
ARC from NetGalley
Okay this one was better than the last one, but it still had some failings. It put me in a bit of a reading slump. It's pretty long for a book where not a whole lot actually happens. There were several times that I was totally lost and had to go back and still couldn't make heads or tails of anything. A lot of the names in this book are similar enough, at least to my eye, that they sort of ended up merging. We don't get to know any of the characters well enough to really give much of a shit about them. It feels like this book exists only to set up books to come. Nothing is well fleshed out. There really isn't any worldbuilding. It seems like the author is relying on pre-existing cultures and hoping that's enough. There is a whisper of romance in this book, but it's barely there. Again, just to set up future books.
Also, I get it, Jie is flat-chested. JIE IS FLAT OKAY. FLAT AS A BOARD.
I don't think I'll be reading the next ones. There isn't anything about it that hooks me. There isn't a romance I want to see come to fruition. There isn't a bad guy I desperately want to see suffer. There isn't fascinating magic and whimsy. No nail-biting mysteries. It's not bad, it's just hollow.
Okay this one was better than the last one, but it still had some failings. It put me in a bit of a reading slump. It's pretty long for a book where not a whole lot actually happens. There were several times that I was totally lost and had to go back and still couldn't make heads or tails of anything. A lot of the names in this book are similar enough, at least to my eye, that they sort of ended up merging. We don't get to know any of the characters well enough to really give much of a shit about them. It feels like this book exists only to set up books to come. Nothing is well fleshed out. There really isn't any worldbuilding. It seems like the author is relying on pre-existing cultures and hoping that's enough. There is a whisper of romance in this book, but it's barely there. Again, just to set up future books.
Also, I get it, Jie is flat-chested. JIE IS FLAT OKAY. FLAT AS A BOARD.
I don't think I'll be reading the next ones. There isn't anything about it that hooks me. There isn't a romance I want to see come to fruition. There isn't a bad guy I desperately want to see suffer. There isn't fascinating magic and whimsy. No nail-biting mysteries. It's not bad, it's just hollow.
July 6, 2016
How will I make it until September to find out what happens next? I have LOVED the books in this series and hope many more will follow. I am so impressed with how knowledgeable the author is on 1,000 subjects~it shines through his writing! ~just can't get enough~
July 22, 2019
Are we done yet
Too many hands in the pot. Who to trust, who not to trust. Take a guess. I feel like I'm running in circles.
Too many hands in the pot. Who to trust, who not to trust. Take a guess. I feel like I'm running in circles.
May 20, 2021
"What can we trust more than that which comes from within ourselves?"
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I also listened to this book on its audiobook format - which I highly recommend.
Orchestra of Treacherieshas spanned two years after the events in Songs of Insurrection wherein readers are now introduced to a more mature, more knowledgeable, and more well-rounded Princess Kaiya as she continues to learn her magic and destiny of keeping the dragon Avarax at bay. Not only are we following her story, but we are also following the villians and scheming politicians' point of views. This second installment was just so jam-packed with that familiar drama, action, and plots that I've come to know in the author's works, but this one just took it up to whole new level. The character work was splendid, and while I couldn't care that much towards a couple of characters' POVs, the amount of character development, dynamics, and conflicts among everyone were truly fulfilling, and I had so much fun following them from start to finish. If you're a fan of heavy politics in your fantasy novels, you'll enjoy this one because it's very detailed and musing, and it might feel a bit clunky for anyone who minds it.
I absolutely adored how we finally got a more expanded world in this story. Sure, the first book was already expansive, but the second book definitely reached further across its borders and finally introduced a lot of the places and cultures that were mentioned in the previous books. The reimagined Asian countries and their respective cultures in this series is really the huge selling point for me, because everything was done meticulously and anyone can fully appreciate it. Also, I enjoyed how we got to see more of how Kaiya's power of music and song come into play in the story.
This is definitely a stronger and more enjoyable follow up for Songs of Insurrection, but there are some few flaws that took away a bit of that enjoyment for me. Nevertheless, I'm still pretty pumped to read the next book in this beautiful series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I also listened to this book on its audiobook format - which I highly recommend.
Orchestra of Treacherieshas spanned two years after the events in Songs of Insurrection wherein readers are now introduced to a more mature, more knowledgeable, and more well-rounded Princess Kaiya as she continues to learn her magic and destiny of keeping the dragon Avarax at bay. Not only are we following her story, but we are also following the villians and scheming politicians' point of views. This second installment was just so jam-packed with that familiar drama, action, and plots that I've come to know in the author's works, but this one just took it up to whole new level. The character work was splendid, and while I couldn't care that much towards a couple of characters' POVs, the amount of character development, dynamics, and conflicts among everyone were truly fulfilling, and I had so much fun following them from start to finish. If you're a fan of heavy politics in your fantasy novels, you'll enjoy this one because it's very detailed and musing, and it might feel a bit clunky for anyone who minds it.
I absolutely adored how we finally got a more expanded world in this story. Sure, the first book was already expansive, but the second book definitely reached further across its borders and finally introduced a lot of the places and cultures that were mentioned in the previous books. The reimagined Asian countries and their respective cultures in this series is really the huge selling point for me, because everything was done meticulously and anyone can fully appreciate it. Also, I enjoyed how we got to see more of how Kaiya's power of music and song come into play in the story.
This is definitely a stronger and more enjoyable follow up for Songs of Insurrection, but there are some few flaws that took away a bit of that enjoyment for me. Nevertheless, I'm still pretty pumped to read the next book in this beautiful series.
August 3, 2022
Whilst I struggled with the first novel in this series, Orchestra of Treacheries is exceptional. All of the flaws and issues I found with Songs of Insurrection vanish into the distance, as it takes us deeper into a tangled web of competing plots and betrayals. Instead of the main focus being a vapid insta-love, we are met with refreshingly clever, insightful and often treasonous characters, each unaware of the depth of the others plotting.
Unlike Songs, Orchestra flits between perspectives, both protagonist and agonist. The reader gets to see the shape of the lies, misdirection and plots, even as the key characters are left completely in the dark. This also served to bulk out a significant number of characters who were just floating names in the first novel, which in turn makes it far easier to keep track of who is who. The sheer scope of treachery and back-stabbing on display here is quite fascinating to read, as plots are derailed not by luck or judgement, but simply because a different back-stabber got there first.
Two of the main protagonists from Songs are brought together, so you see a lot of both Kaiya and Jie - and Jie was the stand out favourite from Songs. And whilst Kaiya's development between the novels was fantastic; instead of being the flat and passive character whose main purpose is the insta-love sub-plot, she really comes into her own here and actively complements the already strong character of Jie. It was a pity to not see anything of Tian - another strong character from Songs - but the vast improvement in Kaiya's character arc made up for this.
The layers of deception and treachery really allowed this to open up and display some truly awesome world-building. Instead of being bound to the palace and the docks, the novel expands into neighbouring cultures and regions as well as building on the fantasy elements of magic. As Kaiya leaves the sheltered life in the palace to challenge what appears to be a series of attacks on her lands nobility, you get a far wider view of the world and how the different pieces slot together.
All in all, this was beautifully written and came together perfectly. I'm really glad that I pushed through the first novel despite my misgivings, because this was absolutely spell-binding. I'm really impressed by the character growth between the novels and by the change in focus, allowing for the expansion in world-building without losing sight of the individuals at the heart of it.
Unlike Songs, Orchestra flits between perspectives, both protagonist and agonist. The reader gets to see the shape of the lies, misdirection and plots, even as the key characters are left completely in the dark. This also served to bulk out a significant number of characters who were just floating names in the first novel, which in turn makes it far easier to keep track of who is who. The sheer scope of treachery and back-stabbing on display here is quite fascinating to read, as plots are derailed not by luck or judgement, but simply because a different back-stabber got there first.
Two of the main protagonists from Songs are brought together, so you see a lot of both Kaiya and Jie - and Jie was the stand out favourite from Songs. And whilst Kaiya's development between the novels was fantastic; instead of being the flat and passive character whose main purpose is the insta-love sub-plot, she really comes into her own here and actively complements the already strong character of Jie. It was a pity to not see anything of Tian - another strong character from Songs - but the vast improvement in Kaiya's character arc made up for this.
The layers of deception and treachery really allowed this to open up and display some truly awesome world-building. Instead of being bound to the palace and the docks, the novel expands into neighbouring cultures and regions as well as building on the fantasy elements of magic. As Kaiya leaves the sheltered life in the palace to challenge what appears to be a series of attacks on her lands nobility, you get a far wider view of the world and how the different pieces slot together.
All in all, this was beautifully written and came together perfectly. I'm really glad that I pushed through the first novel despite my misgivings, because this was absolutely spell-binding. I'm really impressed by the character growth between the novels and by the change in focus, allowing for the expansion in world-building without losing sight of the individuals at the heart of it.
June 6, 2018
This the second book in the series is even better than the first book which I had so thoroughly enjoyed, maybe this is because we already know the characters now! This book is very aptly named as it is full of backstabbing, treacherous princes, lords, enemies and so called friends alike so much so that there was no one who could really be trusted. Kaiya is the only character, who without fail, tries to do what is right, her moral compass never wavers not even in the face of so much adversity. She is tested beyond measure on numerous occasions but in this book she is no longer the young girl lacking confidence in herself that we knew in book 1. She is now a woman, beautiful and talented with a voice which is able to wield magic and that can do anything she sets out to do and she uses her voice to the max! She is now capturing every man's heart with her beauty but none of them are capturing hers! This book takes us out of Cathay to distant lands in the North of Tevala across the sea on a great adventure where we meet Oracles, the Paladins, the evil sorcerer and the great dragon Avarex himself. This is a beautifully written book with poetic descriptions which describe the beauty of nature, the noise and commotion of the cities and market places and the hustle and bustle at the docks, everything just comes to life in front of our very eyes almost like a painting. Well done for another great book in this magnificent saga, can't wait to start reading the 3rd book!
March 3, 2019
Sometimes words like “epic”, “imaginative” and “powerful” are bandied around too frequently. Other times, if anything, they’re an understatement. JC Kang’s The Dragon Songs Saga is an example of the latter. These books are ridiculously imaginative in the world-building and character-building by the author. Totally different (though I think I can see the Japanese heritage with its geisha, samurai, ninja assassins and cultural structure generally) but absolutely genuine from the biggest details to the tiniest. Add that to individual book plots and an overarching story arc that, well, that frankly blows my mind and makes epic an understatement. I had intended to read these books over the course of a week or so but they were so good, so addictive, that I ended up binge-reading them through the night. Not good physically (and I’m in a hospital right now and the nurses and physical therapists were very much not happy with me), but the enjoyment was soooo worthwhile to the spirit. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. This series definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the series is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend each of the books in it.
June 16, 2019
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
Two years after the events of Dragon Scale Lute, Princess Kaiya has grown in both wisdom and beauty. With potential suitors and threats around every corner, Kaiya finds herself being relied on more and more by her father to try and keep the diplomatic peace between nations. Her father also presses her to choose a husband, not knowing that his daughter is in love with the exiled Prince Hardeep.
An Orchestra of Treacheries delves deeper into the intricate games of the court and the minds of the many different lords vying for power. Sensing the kingdom is weakening, they betray not only the royal family, but each other in order to ascent to the throne themselves. I enjoyed reading from different points of view and how the plots weaved together to shape the direction of the second novel in the series. Kaiya is as strong as ever and what I like most about her character is her resilience and that she very much knows her own mind. She is determined to make her own way but still remaining sensitive to her ailing father’s wishes and her duties.
Book two paves the way for things to come and I really look forward to reading further novels in the series.
Two years after the events of Dragon Scale Lute, Princess Kaiya has grown in both wisdom and beauty. With potential suitors and threats around every corner, Kaiya finds herself being relied on more and more by her father to try and keep the diplomatic peace between nations. Her father also presses her to choose a husband, not knowing that his daughter is in love with the exiled Prince Hardeep.
An Orchestra of Treacheries delves deeper into the intricate games of the court and the minds of the many different lords vying for power. Sensing the kingdom is weakening, they betray not only the royal family, but each other in order to ascent to the throne themselves. I enjoyed reading from different points of view and how the plots weaved together to shape the direction of the second novel in the series. Kaiya is as strong as ever and what I like most about her character is her resilience and that she very much knows her own mind. She is determined to make her own way but still remaining sensitive to her ailing father’s wishes and her duties.
Book two paves the way for things to come and I really look forward to reading further novels in the series.
March 26, 2021
trigger warning
Two years have passed, and Kaiya has been fending off marriage proposals, waiting for Prince Hardeep's return. For various reasons which depend on whom you ask, she is send as and envoy to far away lands.
I had trouble getting into this one, and yes, in part it was due to me and my health, but I had problems with the sheer amount of people who got their own PoVs. In book one, for the most part, we had three people who were easy to differentiate. This second installment start introducing and introducting and keeps on till I lost any orientation I had. It returned on the final pages, but I still think it could have been handled better.
What I liked was that we venture out of Cathay to see more of the world.
It's fun to see so many different Asian countries represented in fictional cultures and learn more about the people living in it.
I don't have much to say. I didn't like this one as I Iiked the first book but still want to read on if possible.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
Two years have passed, and Kaiya has been fending off marriage proposals, waiting for Prince Hardeep's return. For various reasons which depend on whom you ask, she is send as and envoy to far away lands.
I had trouble getting into this one, and yes, in part it was due to me and my health, but I had problems with the sheer amount of people who got their own PoVs. In book one, for the most part, we had three people who were easy to differentiate. This second installment start introducing and introducting and keeps on till I lost any orientation I had. It returned on the final pages, but I still think it could have been handled better.
What I liked was that we venture out of Cathay to see more of the world.
It's fun to see so many different Asian countries represented in fictional cultures and learn more about the people living in it.
I don't have much to say. I didn't like this one as I Iiked the first book but still want to read on if possible.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
June 15, 2017
J.C. Kang brings Princess Kaiya and all her retinue back in this stunning second installment! The plot thickens incredibly in this next chapter, as Kaiya must continue to follow her destiny and hone her singing if she is to face the dragon, Avarax. As the fates may have it, her time is taken up by many a suitor, but one in particular will show his face once more, bringing with him a revelation that will shock Kaiya to her roots. Setting out as a girl, Kaiya begins her journey to womanhood and learns the intricacies of the realm's politics. Will she realize the power she holds, though?
Fans of the first novel will thoroughly enjoy this second one! I couldn't wait to see what would happen to the entire cast of characters and I'm anxious still to see what happens in book 3! Check out J.C. Kang's series for a great fantasy ride with as many twists and turns as a serpent's body!
Fans of the first novel will thoroughly enjoy this second one! I couldn't wait to see what would happen to the entire cast of characters and I'm anxious still to see what happens in book 3! Check out J.C. Kang's series for a great fantasy ride with as many twists and turns as a serpent's body!
June 5, 2021
The power of music 🎶 and a princess 👸 who brought down a dragon 🐉 using it. Sounds cool? Exactly. This is the second book in the dragon saga series and if the first one was an appetizer, this one is middle course. I haven't had the dessert yet. 😉
It's mainly political and royal family drama with lots of magical and fantasy elements. Elves, Orcs, dragons... you get the point. But that's not all, you also get to see a mix of different cultures and traditions here. You get to know them more deeply than the first book in this series. What I liked about the book is the details. The details has all the essence and thrill of this series. It's just hard to explain, for me at least, how good this series is without giving away any spoilers. So, I am just gonna finish off with this, it's 💯 one of my best reads of this year. No doubt.
It's mainly political and royal family drama with lots of magical and fantasy elements. Elves, Orcs, dragons... you get the point. But that's not all, you also get to see a mix of different cultures and traditions here. You get to know them more deeply than the first book in this series. What I liked about the book is the details. The details has all the essence and thrill of this series. It's just hard to explain, for me at least, how good this series is without giving away any spoilers. So, I am just gonna finish off with this, it's 💯 one of my best reads of this year. No doubt.
July 7, 2024
This book is just gorgeous! Not only does this book expand the world to different borders and countries, but it dives back into all the intricacies and intrigue of court life that Kaiya has found herself in. Normally, all the political intrigue and scandal would annoy me, but the author writes in a way that I can't hate it. It's vivid, beautiful, and so ugly. You can't have one without the other. Kaiya grew on me in this as well. She's slowly but surely realizing her amazing potential. She still has much growing to do because she can easily be manipulated emotionally. Still, I love her. It raises questions for me if her transformation is the result of her coming into her magic or if someone is behind the scenes. Honestly, I need to know more. The writing, like in the last book and the prequel, is immersive and beautiful. It's very flowery, but it works for the setting.
December 6, 2020
Keeping this at ~85%. I've read the first ~70% quite fast, before I was set back, only to read the remaining 30% in one go.
Compared to the first book, this gets way more fantasy-ish, though it's powered by a political plot all the same. Kayia has grown a bit, and thus the romance subplot she had in the first book is now a subtle memory, though that doesn't mean she'd get a rest - her position gets more perilous with all the traitors around. Likewise, the 'spy' part of the plot isn't as present. The book is now more an adventure than the spy-thriller-romance it was in book one.
And as this is just book two of four, the ending gives only a temporary respite - it's clear that there's still a lot of scheming going around.
Compared to the first book, this gets way more fantasy-ish, though it's powered by a political plot all the same. Kayia has grown a bit, and thus the romance subplot she had in the first book is now a subtle memory, though that doesn't mean she'd get a rest - her position gets more perilous with all the traitors around. Likewise, the 'spy' part of the plot isn't as present. The book is now more an adventure than the spy-thriller-romance it was in book one.
And as this is just book two of four, the ending gives only a temporary respite - it's clear that there's still a lot of scheming going around.
April 26, 2021
Full review om my blog: https://thecaffeinatedrareder.wordpre...
The author sent me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I read it via audiobook! I highly recommend this format!
J.C Kang continues to spoil us with the rich Asian-inspired culture. Since Kaiya travels to neighboring countries, we get the bigger picture of a well-constructed world. The overall world elements were present, but we can also see a variation with regards to their customs and beliefs. I admire the descriptive writing!
Set two years after the Songs of Insurrection, I am impressed with Kaiya's character development on this book. She also went to a lot of learning curves from discovering more truths about her ability in music and the magic it entails to forgiving herself for the shortcomings she made in the past.
If you enjoy stories with great family drama and is full of deceit and betrayal, then you should definitely give this series a shot.
After reading the first two books in The Dragon Songs Saga, I can say it's a well-crafted Asian-inspired epic fantasy series. I recommend this quartet if you like intense political conflicts, good character arc, music-inspired magic system, dragons and half-elves.
The author sent me a copy of this book in exchange for a review. I read it via audiobook! I highly recommend this format!
J.C Kang continues to spoil us with the rich Asian-inspired culture. Since Kaiya travels to neighboring countries, we get the bigger picture of a well-constructed world. The overall world elements were present, but we can also see a variation with regards to their customs and beliefs. I admire the descriptive writing!
Set two years after the Songs of Insurrection, I am impressed with Kaiya's character development on this book. She also went to a lot of learning curves from discovering more truths about her ability in music and the magic it entails to forgiving herself for the shortcomings she made in the past.
If you enjoy stories with great family drama and is full of deceit and betrayal, then you should definitely give this series a shot.
After reading the first two books in The Dragon Songs Saga, I can say it's a well-crafted Asian-inspired epic fantasy series. I recommend this quartet if you like intense political conflicts, good character arc, music-inspired magic system, dragons and half-elves.
April 25, 2018
ORCHESTRA OF TREACHERIES. Kaiya is still pinning for her exiled
Lord, even though two years have passed since she’d seen him. Her beloved cousin acts as go between and passes along letters from him and vice versa. In the meantime she is viewed as a stepping stone to greatness but her numerous suitors, all of which she turns down. Her fathers health is failing and her brother have still been unable to produce an heir. She uses her voice to help calm the Lords from declaring war. Her next adventure is totally dragonian in its scale. Highly recommend.
Lord, even though two years have passed since she’d seen him. Her beloved cousin acts as go between and passes along letters from him and vice versa. In the meantime she is viewed as a stepping stone to greatness but her numerous suitors, all of which she turns down. Her fathers health is failing and her brother have still been unable to produce an heir. She uses her voice to help calm the Lords from declaring war. Her next adventure is totally dragonian in its scale. Highly recommend.
January 19, 2019
Betrayal, conspiracy and a young princess gains confidence. The treachery and conspiracy continues. Princess Kaiya continues her belief that she can help the poor through alliances between the countries. She believes that she can accomplish the feat through diplomacy. She is naive but determined. She works through obstacles with the assistance of those who are loyal to her and those with special powers. All of the lessons she has learned over the years come together to as she learns to use her own magic. Follow the story to get the details and to follow the exciting adventures.
February 9, 2021
Dnf at 23%. (I shouldn’t give it a rating at all since its so early on) Book 1 was a disaster on itself but i thought id just see whether it gets better here, but this story is just not for me. Apart from the writing style itself that I didn’t care much for, the characters really weren’t that appealing and i just lost interest in the world building itself as well :((.
Note: i got an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Note: i got an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
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