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Dragon Assassin #2
Shadow Hunter
A powerful dragon. A desperate assassin. And the empire is hunting them both.
The betrayal was beyond imagining.
And now Carmen has two things on her survival and revenge. No, make that three. Because she cannot figure out exactly where she stands with the mighty dragon Brax. He is the most powerful creature she has ever had to face. And riding him is a constant, dangerous adventure.
But she better figure him out quickly. Because the emperor and his forces are hunting down her fellow assassins one by one. She's going to need all the help she can get.
It’s a non-stop young adult adventure from best-selling author Arthur Slade. Perfect for fans of Dragon Riders of Pern, Dragon School, Eragon and Call of the Dragon.
Take flight with this second episode in the Dragon Assassin series. Each monthly episode is a short, exciting read. Get your copy today!
The betrayal was beyond imagining.
And now Carmen has two things on her survival and revenge. No, make that three. Because she cannot figure out exactly where she stands with the mighty dragon Brax. He is the most powerful creature she has ever had to face. And riding him is a constant, dangerous adventure.
But she better figure him out quickly. Because the emperor and his forces are hunting down her fellow assassins one by one. She's going to need all the help she can get.
It’s a non-stop young adult adventure from best-selling author Arthur Slade. Perfect for fans of Dragon Riders of Pern, Dragon School, Eragon and Call of the Dragon.
Take flight with this second episode in the Dragon Assassin series. Each monthly episode is a short, exciting read. Get your copy today!
127 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2019
251 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Slade
73 books523 followersArthur Slade was raised in the Cypress Hills of southwest Saskatchewan and began writing at an early age. He is the author of the bestselling The Hunchback Assignments series of books, Dust (which won the Governor General's award), Tribes and Jolted. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada (which really is a real place). Join his creative & somewhat clever newsletter at: what a zany newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 24, 2022
I knew it was too good to be true when Carmen and co. met up with that B assassin. The series is heating up!
February 19, 2019
Book 2 is even better than book 1. An excellent fantasy read. Full review below.
...
I love the works of Arthur Slade, he is one of my favorite contemporary authors and maybe my favorite living Canadian author. I began reading his books back in 2002 while working as a bookseller. That year I read Dust and Tribes and started tracking down some of his older works that at the time were out of print. But this new series Dragon assassin is proving to be among his best works yet. And with the planned release of a new story each month this year we are in for some excellent reads!
My first impressions of book two were. I believe in many ways it is even better than book one. I absolutely loved it. I especially loved the last but with the three hands and a claw. A great continuation to the story. But first a recap book one high level overview:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Book two begins with the basic need for survival. But not just for existence, surviving in order to exact revenge! This is a fast paced first person narrative. Our heroine is a member of the assassin’s guild. But on the eve of her graduation most of the guild is wiped out, but a group lead by her twin brother. Now Carmen is on a quest, she needs to find a way to destroy her brother for what he has done. And this adventure takes her all over the realm. She has a few surprises in store. And she reconnects with a few people from the school. This story has:
A reunion with a friend
An adversary turned friend
Aide from a former mentor and teacher
Another betrayal
A dragon to the rescue
The promise of three hands and a claw
I mentioned in book one that the characters and to some extent the story reminds me of Roger Zelanzy’s Amber Chronicles. And I still have that feeling, but this story is taking its own path. The characters are very well written. There is an emerging friendship, and a potential for a love triangle. This book is pure fantasy. The plot proceeds at an excellent pace, and leaves readers desperate for the third installment. It is excellently written, and I give it top marks. A great read in what is shaping up to be an incredible series.
Well done Mr. Slade, well done!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Art.
...
I love the works of Arthur Slade, he is one of my favorite contemporary authors and maybe my favorite living Canadian author. I began reading his books back in 2002 while working as a bookseller. That year I read Dust and Tribes and started tracking down some of his older works that at the time were out of print. But this new series Dragon assassin is proving to be among his best works yet. And with the planned release of a new story each month this year we are in for some excellent reads!
My first impressions of book two were. I believe in many ways it is even better than book one. I absolutely loved it. I especially loved the last but with the three hands and a claw. A great continuation to the story. But first a recap book one high level overview:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Book two begins with the basic need for survival. But not just for existence, surviving in order to exact revenge! This is a fast paced first person narrative. Our heroine is a member of the assassin’s guild. But on the eve of her graduation most of the guild is wiped out, but a group lead by her twin brother. Now Carmen is on a quest, she needs to find a way to destroy her brother for what he has done. And this adventure takes her all over the realm. She has a few surprises in store. And she reconnects with a few people from the school. This story has:
A reunion with a friend
An adversary turned friend
Aide from a former mentor and teacher
Another betrayal
A dragon to the rescue
The promise of three hands and a claw
I mentioned in book one that the characters and to some extent the story reminds me of Roger Zelanzy’s Amber Chronicles. And I still have that feeling, but this story is taking its own path. The characters are very well written. There is an emerging friendship, and a potential for a love triangle. This book is pure fantasy. The plot proceeds at an excellent pace, and leaves readers desperate for the third installment. It is excellently written, and I give it top marks. A great read in what is shaping up to be an incredible series.
Well done Mr. Slade, well done!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. As well as an author profile and interview with Art.
February 22, 2019
Arthur Slade's books are always notable for action, adventure, and engaging characters. DRAGON ASSASSIN 2: SHADOW HUNTER is of course the sequel to his delightful DRAGON ASSASSIN, which presents a very sentient Dragon with attitude, Brax, and the determined, take-no-prisoners, no pain-no gain, heroine Carmen, a twin. Carmen and her brother were left at the Assassin Academy at birth, raised to be assassins in the Royal employ. Until Carmen needs one final assignment to graduate: locate a Dragon's egg. In the process (nearly killing herself), she instead discovered and befriended (at great difficulty) Brax. Then followed the Great Betrayal, and a wonderful action-adventure starring one young lady and one incredible Dragon.
The DRAGON ASSASSIN Series is considered YA, but even us older folks can get a big kick out of reading these exciting fantasies.
The DRAGON ASSASSIN Series is considered YA, but even us older folks can get a big kick out of reading these exciting fantasies.
June 3, 2025
2.5
Carmen is supposed to be a trained assassin, but it sure doesn't seem that way. She makes far too many mistakes and forgets basic things like when she tried sneaking into the room of her bro's croney. I in part understand because she just graduated and she needs actually lived experience to become a truly formiddable assassin, but again, she seems more like a novice than someone who has studied all her life. The only thing that truly helps her and sets her apart is the dragon eye.
Anyways, this book isn't bad. I did find it better than the first one. The characters are more likeable as we get to know them more and see them fight and survive along side each other. Still, I wouldn't say I am necessarily really attached to them or that they have something unique that truly makes them remarkable or worth rooting for. The only really fun character is still the dragon, naturally. His wit and personality is the highlight of the series so far and I always look forward to when he appears and has scenes.
I still also find it hard to truly sympathize with Carmen's anger of the assassin guild being destroyed since, you know, their just essentially glorified murderers.
All in all, this book, I felt, was better than the first and will continue on reading to see what happens.
Carmen is supposed to be a trained assassin, but it sure doesn't seem that way. She makes far too many mistakes and forgets basic things like when she tried sneaking into the room of her bro's croney. I in part understand because she just graduated and she needs actually lived experience to become a truly formiddable assassin, but again, she seems more like a novice than someone who has studied all her life. The only thing that truly helps her and sets her apart is the dragon eye.
Anyways, this book isn't bad. I did find it better than the first one. The characters are more likeable as we get to know them more and see them fight and survive along side each other. Still, I wouldn't say I am necessarily really attached to them or that they have something unique that truly makes them remarkable or worth rooting for. The only really fun character is still the dragon, naturally. His wit and personality is the highlight of the series so far and I always look forward to when he appears and has scenes.
I still also find it hard to truly sympathize with Carmen's anger of the assassin guild being destroyed since, you know, their just essentially glorified murderers.
All in all, this book, I felt, was better than the first and will continue on reading to see what happens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2021
Continuing this series straight on from book 1, we find Carmen flying on the back of Brax, her dragon companion, in a quest to locate and kill her treacherous brother.
This book introduces some new characters, old enemies, and blends a nice balance of magic, fighting and betrayal. Again, the areas are nicely described (I especially liked the tavern), and the story moves along quickly. Carmen encounters some surprising allies, and also finds out that a generous donation comes with some nice added extras.
I am a big fan of the YA series Merlin, so Brax now has the voice of John Hurt in my head. Fans of that series will certainly enjoy this one.
Bring on book 3.
This book introduces some new characters, old enemies, and blends a nice balance of magic, fighting and betrayal. Again, the areas are nicely described (I especially liked the tavern), and the story moves along quickly. Carmen encounters some surprising allies, and also finds out that a generous donation comes with some nice added extras.
I am a big fan of the YA series Merlin, so Brax now has the voice of John Hurt in my head. Fans of that series will certainly enjoy this one.
Bring on book 3.
February 23, 2019
The exciting second episode is here!! If, like me, you really enjoyed the first episode of this series and have been on tenterhooks waiting for the second, go buy it now - it's a thrilling read, full of more twists and turns than a rollercoaster! Only downside? Now we have to wait for number three!!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
March 7, 2020
Hmm good but maybe not as much as the first
It's really easy to tell that these are all kids. Usually with a hero/ heroine they get strong and keep forging ahead. This is more blundering. The little triangle that's formed is a bit eye roll worthy. I enjoyed the library being so important and the bits when we see Carmen forced to be more - like with the mystic. There are some hints to Carmen and Brax forming a better partnership, which is great.
It's really easy to tell that these are all kids. Usually with a hero/ heroine they get strong and keep forging ahead. This is more blundering. The little triangle that's formed is a bit eye roll worthy. I enjoyed the library being so important and the bits when we see Carmen forced to be more - like with the mystic. There are some hints to Carmen and Brax forming a better partnership, which is great.
February 15, 2019
Even better than Dragon Assassin 1! Arthur Slade's Dragon Assassin 2: Shadow Hunter was given to me and I am voluntarily posting an honest review. This second book in the series is thoroughly delightful. The interplay between our heroine and her dragon is totally original. Great fun to read and itching to read Dragon Assassin 3 as soon as it is available!
February 15, 2019
The adventure continues only this time Carmen is joined by two of her classmates who also escaped the massacre. More betrayal and another near miss at the hands of her brother. This series just keeps getting better. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received and ARC copy from the Author and have chosen to leave a review.
I received and ARC copy from the Author and have chosen to leave a review.
February 24, 2019
Dragon eye
While not a fan of serials at all, I mistakenly read the first one believing it a novel. It was very good, so....I now have to read this serial. Jam packed with action, betrayals, a dragon, and red hot revenge, I am hooked on this feisty heroine that seeks the end of her killer brother. Now if she could just breathe fire...
While not a fan of serials at all, I mistakenly read the first one believing it a novel. It was very good, so....I now have to read this serial. Jam packed with action, betrayals, a dragon, and red hot revenge, I am hooked on this feisty heroine that seeks the end of her killer brother. Now if she could just breathe fire...
February 13, 2019
This is the second book in a continuing series and is a nice follow to the first. I hope Carmen makes more headway into her journey, but it is making a good foundation for the books to come. It is an enjoyable read and easy to get lost in.
February 19, 2019
After reading book 1 I had to buy this one to see how Carmen & Brax get along & find her brother, Corwin. I love Brax's attitude & sense of humor. I would give this series 5 or more stars if I could. Can't wait for the next book to come out.
May 22, 2019
Twists and turns
The adventure continues and the twists and turns are still coming. Betrayal and friendship, fights and adventure. What will happen next i could guess but what fun would that be. Looking forward to book 3.
The adventure continues and the twists and turns are still coming. Betrayal and friendship, fights and adventure. What will happen next i could guess but what fun would that be. Looking forward to book 3.
June 12, 2020
As a lover of dragon books in general I found this one especially interesting as it comes from one of my favorite authors. I wasn't disappointed! I absolutely loved this book! I highly recommend it to any and all fantasy book lovers.
November 1, 2021
4.25 stars
I'm falling in love with this story. In the first book we met Carmen and kind of got to meet a certain dragon named Brax. In this book, their relationship is beginning, even if it is only on kind of shaky ground. The two of them form a hilarious duo, who are forced to work together. We are also shown the bigger world and are beginning to realize that there is a heck of a lot more going on than we were previously led to believe.
I'm hooked.
I'm falling in love with this story. In the first book we met Carmen and kind of got to meet a certain dragon named Brax. In this book, their relationship is beginning, even if it is only on kind of shaky ground. The two of them form a hilarious duo, who are forced to work together. We are also shown the bigger world and are beginning to realize that there is a heck of a lot more going on than we were previously led to believe.
I'm hooked.
March 3, 2019
Good read
I cant wait for the next book. Well written story and its not the same old story line. I really like it.
I cant wait for the next book. Well written story and its not the same old story line. I really like it.
March 7, 2019
I want book 3
It was a good continuation from book 1. I hope book 3 out soon. I want the relationship between Brax and Carmin to grow stronger.
It was a good continuation from book 1. I hope book 3 out soon. I want the relationship between Brax and Carmin to grow stronger.
April 1, 2019
Nice little flick
Nice little flick written for young adults. Good continity with previous book and promising serial future. Has the start of love triangle.
Nice little flick written for young adults. Good continity with previous book and promising serial future. Has the start of love triangle.
April 4, 2019
Great sequel!
April 6, 2019
Good read
Enjoyed the story line. I'm am looking forward to your next book as well. This has something none of the other Dragon books has had.
Enjoyed the story line. I'm am looking forward to your next book as well. This has something none of the other Dragon books has had.
July 23, 2019
Awesome read
Great plot, easy read first book I’ve been excited about for a while. Clean read too. Good characters and it moves along at a fast pace.
Great plot, easy read first book I’ve been excited about for a while. Clean read too. Good characters and it moves along at a fast pace.
September 4, 2020
Now that we know the Carmen and Brax, we need to add more to the mix. This book had some very good fights and we can see the strengths in each of Carmen's classmates.
November 21, 2021
4.5 Carmen is such a knob sometimes.
February 21, 2022
Shadow Hunter by Author Slade: YA Adventure Fantasy. Coming-of-age. Assassins. Dragons. Friendships. Magic. Single POV. Action. Fight scenes. Sneak Scenes. Siblings. Revenge.
August 8, 2019
This review was originally posted on Camryn DaytonaThis book may have some spoilers for book one, but honestly, so little happened in book one that there's not much to spoil. Read my review of book one.
This is the second book in the Dragon Assassin series, which is a series with a great premise and a weird execution.
I felt as though book one was lacking in something (namely, a resolution) and thankfully book two provided that (at least a little, since there are at least two more books that I haven't read yet). If I were publishing this series, I would have combined books one and two into one book.
So this book picks up where book one leaves off, with a bit of a time jump. Carmen is now on the hunt for the people who killed all of her assassin friends while looking for any remaining assassins. She finds out that there are more assassins who were left alive (mostly by accident or dumb luck) but not all of them are entirely friendly.
We also learn that pretty much everyone in this series is a complete moron, which is strange since they're supposed to be highly trained assassins. Honestly, I think the most intelligent character is Brax, and he's a pissed off dragon. Everyone seems to survive by plot necessity and pure dumb luck, but somehow I still found myself enjoying this book.
That's the oddest thing about it. Despite everything I have to say about this that's negative, I liked reading it and I do recommend it.
Summary Discrepancies
So I noticed something interesting as I was manually importing the information from Goodreads (because as I mentioned in my review of book one, my Ultimate Book Blogger doesn't recognize this as a book.
The thing I noticed was, Amazon and Goodreads have two different summaries for this book. The Amazon one is the one I used above (because it's the better of the two) but the summary on Goodreads is as follows:
Well.
That's a terrible summary.
I get that once people have read book one, you (probably) don't have to put as much effort into the summary for book two, but that was awful. In fact, it's part of the summary from book one.
Lowest effort summary of all time.
Overall
Again, I don't know why, but I did like this book.
It's not excellent, but hey, it's short and it's on kindle unlimited, so what else could you want?
This is the second book in the Dragon Assassin series, which is a series with a great premise and a weird execution.
I felt as though book one was lacking in something (namely, a resolution) and thankfully book two provided that (at least a little, since there are at least two more books that I haven't read yet). If I were publishing this series, I would have combined books one and two into one book.
So this book picks up where book one leaves off, with a bit of a time jump. Carmen is now on the hunt for the people who killed all of her assassin friends while looking for any remaining assassins. She finds out that there are more assassins who were left alive (mostly by accident or dumb luck) but not all of them are entirely friendly.
We also learn that pretty much everyone in this series is a complete moron, which is strange since they're supposed to be highly trained assassins. Honestly, I think the most intelligent character is Brax, and he's a pissed off dragon. Everyone seems to survive by plot necessity and pure dumb luck, but somehow I still found myself enjoying this book.
That's the oddest thing about it. Despite everything I have to say about this that's negative, I liked reading it and I do recommend it.
Summary Discrepancies
So I noticed something interesting as I was manually importing the information from Goodreads (because as I mentioned in my review of book one, my Ultimate Book Blogger doesn't recognize this as a book.
The thing I noticed was, Amazon and Goodreads have two different summaries for this book. The Amazon one is the one I used above (because it's the better of the two) but the summary on Goodreads is as follows:
The amazing continuation of Dragon Assassin: Twin Fury.
It's a non-stop young adult adventure.
She's tough.
She's an assassin.
And she has a dragon as a secret weapon.
Well.
That's a terrible summary.
I get that once people have read book one, you (probably) don't have to put as much effort into the summary for book two, but that was awful. In fact, it's part of the summary from book one.
Lowest effort summary of all time.
Overall
Again, I don't know why, but I did like this book.
It's not excellent, but hey, it's short and it's on kindle unlimited, so what else could you want?
Read
March 3, 2019This series just keeps on getting better. The truth is out about her brother and his friends wish to rid the world of assassins . The action scenes are well written and the characters powers and personality are growing in a great way. This is a totally gripping book and I have no problem in recommending it.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews