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Drakon #2
Drakon: Uncarved
“Uncarved” is Book II of the epic fantasy novel Drakon.
“How do the Uncarved die? They bleed to death. Always.”
Fourteen-winter-old Da-Ren joins the Uncarved, the chosen few destined to lead the Tribe. More than forty children train and compete for the next five springs; only one will become Khun and fulfill the Tribe’s destiny.
Da-Ren’s ambition and strength will keep him alive but can he overcome his most powerful and cunning adversary, the one favored by witches and men? The Goddess and the Ouna-Mas will try to nest in his heart, but is he prepared for the one woman he is brought up to hate?
As war and hunger strangle the Tribe, the stakes of love, duty, and betrayal are higher than ever. A young man’s first kill. A young man’s first kiss. A coming-of-age tale with non-stop action.
“How do the Uncarved die? They bleed to death. Always.”
Fourteen-winter-old Da-Ren joins the Uncarved, the chosen few destined to lead the Tribe. More than forty children train and compete for the next five springs; only one will become Khun and fulfill the Tribe’s destiny.
Da-Ren’s ambition and strength will keep him alive but can he overcome his most powerful and cunning adversary, the one favored by witches and men? The Goddess and the Ouna-Mas will try to nest in his heart, but is he prepared for the one woman he is brought up to hate?
As war and hunger strangle the Tribe, the stakes of love, duty, and betrayal are higher than ever. A young man’s first kill. A young man’s first kiss. A coming-of-age tale with non-stop action.
- GenresFantasy
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2017
55 people are currently reading
66 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 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 4, 2017
A Story for the Ages
I just finished book 1 and 2 in a weekend. This story is not about another world but fiction woven from the fabric of ancient European history. And, boy is it good! Please note this story is for adults and should not be on a tweens summer reading list. It's fine for the SAT age group and may mirror tales from World history classes. The story is about Da Ren. He is cursed , a sore loser, and in love with a woman he cannot capture. His only friend is his worse enemy - Malan. Will they survive the next campaign? I'm looking forward to book 3. I strongly advise that you not pass over this series.
I just finished book 1 and 2 in a weekend. This story is not about another world but fiction woven from the fabric of ancient European history. And, boy is it good! Please note this story is for adults and should not be on a tweens summer reading list. It's fine for the SAT age group and may mirror tales from World history classes. The story is about Da Ren. He is cursed , a sore loser, and in love with a woman he cannot capture. His only friend is his worse enemy - Malan. Will they survive the next campaign? I'm looking forward to book 3. I strongly advise that you not pass over this series.
May 31, 2017
The second book in Caskabel's Drakon series picks up where the first book left off, charting the next five years in Da-Ren's life as he strives to become the next leader of his tribe. Standing in his way are one of his only friends and the religious leaders of his tribe, as well as his own doubts over what he truly desires.
After the first book, I noted that Caskabel wrote the entire series before publishing it. This gave me hope for a cohesive, well-thought out story, and he continues to deliver. The various threads of his past and current life are woven together to tell a compelling and rich story.
While the action level was higher and the plot denser in this book than the first, it's still the characters and Da-Ren's personal struggles that make this series truly worth reading.
This is a good one.
After the first book, I noted that Caskabel wrote the entire series before publishing it. This gave me hope for a cohesive, well-thought out story, and he continues to deliver. The various threads of his past and current life are woven together to tell a compelling and rich story.
While the action level was higher and the plot denser in this book than the first, it's still the characters and Da-Ren's personal struggles that make this series truly worth reading.
This is a good one.
May 8, 2017
I've already read the greek version, I just finished the english one.
I had a really bad time when this book ended. I did not want it to end. It was fast-paced and well versed and Da-Ren’s story was… well, at the same time brutal and sweet. I really can’t wait to read volumes III and IV.
I had a really bad time when this book ended. I did not want it to end. It was fast-paced and well versed and Da-Ren’s story was… well, at the same time brutal and sweet. I really can’t wait to read volumes III and IV.
April 23, 2017
This is the second part (out of 4) of the Drakon series and I cannot recommend this book (and the whole series) enough! We follow Da-Ren’s path to becoming a respected warrior in his tribe. However as he matures the first cracks appear in what he held dear. Uncertainties creep in place of certainties and comfort. Doubts instead of truths is all he finds as he learns more about himself and the tribe.
The author continues his epic tour of this fantasy world that unfortunately for our comfort is not as fantastic as we would like. For Da-Ren’s world is easily identifiable and almost everything in it has happened at one time or another in history. The book is masterfully written and the reader just keeps turning page after page as the world is slowly revealed before our eyes and the plot thickens.
Totally recommended for fans of heroic and epic fantasy but also a great read for anyone interested in a very realistic-feeling world of bravery, cruelty, love, betrayal, in other words in a human world!
The author continues his epic tour of this fantasy world that unfortunately for our comfort is not as fantastic as we would like. For Da-Ren’s world is easily identifiable and almost everything in it has happened at one time or another in history. The book is masterfully written and the reader just keeps turning page after page as the world is slowly revealed before our eyes and the plot thickens.
Totally recommended for fans of heroic and epic fantasy but also a great read for anyone interested in a very realistic-feeling world of bravery, cruelty, love, betrayal, in other words in a human world!
March 28, 2017
I loved book one, so I bought book 2 asap. And boy, it delivers.
Da Ren, the main character, is a teenager and instead of ploughing he is trying to get to the top of the pack, but his rival is as tenacious as him. There is a lot politicking in this book, as well as sex and violence. The book never shies away from the brutal nature of war and the cruelty of the tribe.
What I really liked is that you can both read it as a ‘fun’ novel (if your fun is about slaughtering, mayhem and pillaging) and as a deeper commentary about the nature of evil. The fast-paced writing sure helps a lot, I rushed through the pages like a torrent and had a blast.
I really need to get book 3 and, from what I’ve seen in the author’s page it is bound to come out realy soon.
Go read Drakon now, it is amazing!
Da Ren, the main character, is a teenager and instead of ploughing he is trying to get to the top of the pack, but his rival is as tenacious as him. There is a lot politicking in this book, as well as sex and violence. The book never shies away from the brutal nature of war and the cruelty of the tribe.
What I really liked is that you can both read it as a ‘fun’ novel (if your fun is about slaughtering, mayhem and pillaging) and as a deeper commentary about the nature of evil. The fast-paced writing sure helps a lot, I rushed through the pages like a torrent and had a blast.
I really need to get book 3 and, from what I’ve seen in the author’s page it is bound to come out realy soon.
Go read Drakon now, it is amazing!
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!
January 12, 2018
I am glad to say that this book was far more better than the first one. Actually I was impressed by the improvement in the author's writing. The world we were introduced to in the previous book is explained exactly as it should, with no more details than needed. I, and I am sure you will too, was able to get closer with the characters, to come into their shoes and struggle with their problems.
Although I still prefer it in its original language, I did enjoy it in English as well. A tip as a friend, read it in winter. It is one of those books most suitable for the cold, dark nights considering its theme. That is the main reason why I don't know when I'll continue on with the series, Maybe after summer.
For more reviews feel free to visit my blog https://helenasbooks670176047.wordpre...
Although I still prefer it in its original language, I did enjoy it in English as well. A tip as a friend, read it in winter. It is one of those books most suitable for the cold, dark nights considering its theme. That is the main reason why I don't know when I'll continue on with the series, Maybe after summer.
For more reviews feel free to visit my blog https://helenasbooks670176047.wordpre...
June 4, 2017
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
Drakon Book 2: Uncarved is the second book in the Drakon series. I previously reviewed the first book in the series, and really enjoyed it, so I was eager to get started on the second book. In fact, I was a bit bummed I had to put it on the back burner for a few days because I had to finish some other books first.
Anyway, back to the story. Da-Ren is back in this second installment. After having survived The Sieve, he now joins the Uncarved, the chosen few destined to lead their tribe. With forty children training and competing for the next five years, only one of them will end up becoming Khun (which actually reminded me a lot of the Khan, like The Great Khan from the Mongolian Empire). Now he’s older and wiser, he begins to feel uncertain about some particularities about his tribe and the things he’s always believed in. As he starts to doubt things he’s never doubted before, and begins to question what he’s always considered the truth, he learns a lot more about himself and his tribe than he thought possible.
The book is brutal at times, but then again, so is war and so is the society Da-Ren is growing up in. Politics are just as important as strengths and intelligence. The writing is just as fast-paced as in book one, and combined with the expanding world-building (we learn more about Da-Ren’s world and culture than in book one) and Da-Ren evolving and gorwing as a character, Uncarved makes for an intriguing sequel.
I really enjoyed this book, and finished it in one sitting. Of course, now I can’t wait to find out what happens next. If you enjoy fantasy, I would definitely recommend giving this series a try.
Drakon Book 2: Uncarved is the second book in the Drakon series. I previously reviewed the first book in the series, and really enjoyed it, so I was eager to get started on the second book. In fact, I was a bit bummed I had to put it on the back burner for a few days because I had to finish some other books first.
Anyway, back to the story. Da-Ren is back in this second installment. After having survived The Sieve, he now joins the Uncarved, the chosen few destined to lead their tribe. With forty children training and competing for the next five years, only one of them will end up becoming Khun (which actually reminded me a lot of the Khan, like The Great Khan from the Mongolian Empire). Now he’s older and wiser, he begins to feel uncertain about some particularities about his tribe and the things he’s always believed in. As he starts to doubt things he’s never doubted before, and begins to question what he’s always considered the truth, he learns a lot more about himself and his tribe than he thought possible.
The book is brutal at times, but then again, so is war and so is the society Da-Ren is growing up in. Politics are just as important as strengths and intelligence. The writing is just as fast-paced as in book one, and combined with the expanding world-building (we learn more about Da-Ren’s world and culture than in book one) and Da-Ren evolving and gorwing as a character, Uncarved makes for an intriguing sequel.
I really enjoyed this book, and finished it in one sitting. Of course, now I can’t wait to find out what happens next. If you enjoy fantasy, I would definitely recommend giving this series a try.
April 18, 2017
Drakon (Book II) continues wonderfully to describe the rough world that Da-Ren lives in, with the additions of the beautiful forest and the hints of other worlds to come. Very nicely done! This book is very compelling in the way it mixes love/hate, war, politics, different ethnic backgrounds and cultures...all most current meanings and problems in our world today. Great book to immerse yourself in a different world (even though sometimes in brutal barbaric one) and a different time that could have been part of our ancient history! Very much recommend!!!
May 19, 2020
Details
Simply amazing how all the small details ( if you pay attention) eventually the in together at some point in the story. The body paint, the songs of stories that are told and of course dreams. Everyone of them either reflect the past or foretold the future. This story has had a lot of heart poured into it. The main character steals the show,well developed and complex. But you'll find many other intriguing ones as well. If dark is your mind of thing, this is it.
Simply amazing how all the small details ( if you pay attention) eventually the in together at some point in the story. The body paint, the songs of stories that are told and of course dreams. Everyone of them either reflect the past or foretold the future. This story has had a lot of heart poured into it. The main character steals the show,well developed and complex. But you'll find many other intriguing ones as well. If dark is your mind of thing, this is it.
March 25, 2018
Good book
This book shows Da-Ren growing a little older and learning how to lead a group of forty Blades. By a twist of fate he helps to save the Kahn and is promoted to First Blade over all the blades in the Tribe. He is still torn between the tribe and the Forest people.
This book shows Da-Ren growing a little older and learning how to lead a group of forty Blades. By a twist of fate he helps to save the Kahn and is promoted to First Blade over all the blades in the Tribe. He is still torn between the tribe and the Forest people.
April 20, 2017
I gave Book I 4 stars, but this one deserves 5. I just didn't want it to end. The plot moves at a great pace, and I love immersing myself in worlds that are imaginary and so meticulously constructed. The author must have done a lot of historical research, but he doesn't give you a history lesson, he just makes a world that you can see, hear and almost smell.
February 10, 2025
Uncarved picks up where book 1 left off and it's a bit faster paced than the last one. I really like the flow of this story. I haven't come across any spots that made my attention fade, if anything Da-Ren's life gets more exciting every year older he gets lol.
I give this book 5 of 5 Paws and look forward to book three: Firstblade.
I give this book 5 of 5 Paws and look forward to book three: Firstblade.
May 17, 2017
This book(s) reminded me of why I loved once so much Fantasy. I found here some of the strongest, most spectacular and real characters ever. This is a world worth visiting again. I highly recommend this series to everyone.
September 5, 2017
I gave the first book a 4, this one a 3 ... this one seemed to be a little slower, it's almost like a filler between the 1st and 3rd .... it does advance the story line and is really the 'coming of age' where the first book is about the childhood and training of the lead warriors in the culture.
July 27, 2017
Finished it...but
Lots and lots of ramblings. If the book was a train...well it's time to replace the tracks. Not sure I can move on to book 3.
Lots and lots of ramblings. If the book was a train...well it's time to replace the tracks. Not sure I can move on to book 3.
October 6, 2017
Dtakon
A stellar follow up to Drakon book one. The story and adventure continues brilliantly. A great book to read. I Loved e.
A stellar follow up to Drakon book one. The story and adventure continues brilliantly. A great book to read. I Loved e.
October 18, 2017
Dark
Beautifully dark and depressing with a taunting hope for an impossible love. Great storytelling. Reads like poetry written in blood. Looking forward to book three.
Beautifully dark and depressing with a taunting hope for an impossible love. Great storytelling. Reads like poetry written in blood. Looking forward to book three.
May 11, 2018
Entertaining read
It was entertaining. By no means my favorite book/series, but good. I look forward to the next in the series
It was entertaining. By no means my favorite book/series, but good. I look forward to the next in the series
September 11, 2018
Excellent
Unique and intriguing. Best story I have read in a long time. I can see it playing out in my head like it was written to be a tv series.
Unique and intriguing. Best story I have read in a long time. I can see it playing out in my head like it was written to be a tv series.
March 19, 2017
The boy of book I becomes a man in book II, and the story more interesting and agonizing.! If you are a fantasy book fan you shouldn't miss this one.
March 28, 2017
Great book. My cousin suggested not to miss it and he was right. I read it in a day and could not stop. The book surprises you constantly and the plot takes you on a ride.
It is difficult to put it in a category as it combines many elements. It is fiction but it is based in true facts. Being Greek, I found it inspired by the ancient Spartans.
It is hard and cruel but full of romance and innocence. Definitely a keeper! Strongly recommended.
It is difficult to put it in a category as it combines many elements. It is fiction but it is based in true facts. Being Greek, I found it inspired by the ancient Spartans.
It is hard and cruel but full of romance and innocence. Definitely a keeper! Strongly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews