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Bitterwaters
Few mortals have crossed the Bitterwaters to the land of monsters. The place where the dragons rule. But she is crossing on the back of Brax, a Scythian dragon. She's promised to slay someone on his behalf. The thing is she's pretty sure he wants her to kill another dragon. But how can one mortal assassin do that?
74 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2019
120 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Arthur Slade
74 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 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 6, 2019
This serial story keeps getting better and better. This fourth installment really took a twist and leaves you falling from a cliff. a great read. Full review below.
...
This book is part of a series that is being released one section at a time over a year. This is the fourth instalment, and has the biggest twist by far. In many ways it is like being a kid in the 70’sor 80’s and waiting for the next episode of a show. And it harkens back to the day when almost all fiction and especially science fiction and fantasty were published serially. My first thought upon finishing this fourth instalment was ‘Wow, I was completely blown away!’ Especially by the cliff hanger ending. I must admit that I have been a fan of Arthur Slades’s writing since reading both Dust and Tribes in 2002. I eagerly await each new release from his pen. I consider him a master at the craft of writing. This series and this fourth episode in it are wonderfully written. And as we wait to tune in next month to the same Dragon Chanel for the next instalment, here is my review of Book 3 Dark Wings.
As we progress through each volume in this series we find that each book has a lot on the go, and this time is no different. Though this time we move from the realm of humans to the land of the dragons, and things become very interesting very fast! Ot one point Brax states to Carmen:
“Not once have you inquired about the dragon system of government or our cultures—you’ve been in such a ‘I just want to kill my brother’ mindset since we met. Why do you think I was so averse to you riding my back? Slaves never ride on a dragon. We carry them in our talons or they mope along on the ground.”
Earlier in the book we read:
““I know that, Carmen!” he snapped. “I’m angry with everyone and everything right now. It’s the only emotion that keeps me going. Now be quiet for a long time because I need to concentrate.”
There was another large crack as a ragged chunk of ice broke from the tip of his right wing. But there were ever-growing sections of ice in the center that forced his wings to droop. If I had a pole I could have reached them.”
For this instalment begins with Brax and Carmen flying north, so she can complete her part of their bargain from book one. There is someone Carmen must kill for Brax, and then she will owe him a year of service. But the weather is worse than the last time Brax made the trip, and Carmen is added weight upon his back. His wings are freezing up, and the story starts off in a bleak way, and as the story goes on other than a few major surprises it gets bleaker and bleaker.
In this book we find out a lot more about Dragon kind. We learn some about their culture, their history, and their lives. We also learn a lot more specifically about Brax. And we find out that Carmen having Brax’s eye not only enhances her sight, and provides a connection to him. But that is a surprise you will need to read to find out.
I have been surprised by events in each of the preceding three volumes, but the end of this one is the biggest by far. This book and the entire series so far are excellent reads. It is a great series, and I look forward to the next instalment each month. It is well worth your time and effort to read these excellent books that are done in such a classic fantasy style. And after reading this one I am reminded of the Earthsea cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin and might go back and reread that while waiting for book 5. But again I will state most emphatically if you love classic fantasy along the lines of Le Guin and Guy Gavriel Kay you owe it to yourself to give the Dragon Assassin books a go!
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.
...
This book is part of a series that is being released one section at a time over a year. This is the fourth instalment, and has the biggest twist by far. In many ways it is like being a kid in the 70’sor 80’s and waiting for the next episode of a show. And it harkens back to the day when almost all fiction and especially science fiction and fantasty were published serially. My first thought upon finishing this fourth instalment was ‘Wow, I was completely blown away!’ Especially by the cliff hanger ending. I must admit that I have been a fan of Arthur Slades’s writing since reading both Dust and Tribes in 2002. I eagerly await each new release from his pen. I consider him a master at the craft of writing. This series and this fourth episode in it are wonderfully written. And as we wait to tune in next month to the same Dragon Chanel for the next instalment, here is my review of Book 3 Dark Wings.
As we progress through each volume in this series we find that each book has a lot on the go, and this time is no different. Though this time we move from the realm of humans to the land of the dragons, and things become very interesting very fast! Ot one point Brax states to Carmen:
“Not once have you inquired about the dragon system of government or our cultures—you’ve been in such a ‘I just want to kill my brother’ mindset since we met. Why do you think I was so averse to you riding my back? Slaves never ride on a dragon. We carry them in our talons or they mope along on the ground.”
Earlier in the book we read:
““I know that, Carmen!” he snapped. “I’m angry with everyone and everything right now. It’s the only emotion that keeps me going. Now be quiet for a long time because I need to concentrate.”
There was another large crack as a ragged chunk of ice broke from the tip of his right wing. But there were ever-growing sections of ice in the center that forced his wings to droop. If I had a pole I could have reached them.”
For this instalment begins with Brax and Carmen flying north, so she can complete her part of their bargain from book one. There is someone Carmen must kill for Brax, and then she will owe him a year of service. But the weather is worse than the last time Brax made the trip, and Carmen is added weight upon his back. His wings are freezing up, and the story starts off in a bleak way, and as the story goes on other than a few major surprises it gets bleaker and bleaker.
In this book we find out a lot more about Dragon kind. We learn some about their culture, their history, and their lives. We also learn a lot more specifically about Brax. And we find out that Carmen having Brax’s eye not only enhances her sight, and provides a connection to him. But that is a surprise you will need to read to find out.
I have been surprised by events in each of the preceding three volumes, but the end of this one is the biggest by far. This book and the entire series so far are excellent reads. It is a great series, and I look forward to the next instalment each month. It is well worth your time and effort to read these excellent books that are done in such a classic fantasy style. And after reading this one I am reminded of the Earthsea cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin and might go back and reread that while waiting for book 5. But again I will state most emphatically if you love classic fantasy along the lines of Le Guin and Guy Gavriel Kay you owe it to yourself to give the Dragon Assassin books a go!
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.
December 15, 2021
The journey continues straight on from book 3, seeing Carmen clinging on desperately to Brax on a quest that she has committed to, but has no knowledge of.
This series is just getting better. This book details a lot of information on the background of Brax. There are skirmishes, encounters with new people and some interesting revelations all round. The land that our explorers visit this time is hostile in many ways and there is a lot of action right up to the surprising conclusion.
I'm really glad I already have book 5.
This series is just getting better. This book details a lot of information on the background of Brax. There are skirmishes, encounters with new people and some interesting revelations all round. The land that our explorers visit this time is hostile in many ways and there is a lot of action right up to the surprising conclusion.
I'm really glad I already have book 5.
June 23, 2025
Definitely the best books in the series so far.
I very much enjoyed learning about Drachia and Dreki. Seeing as I am a huge dragon lover, I loved reading about all the details and lore surrounding this continent where dragons live. How their city is so large and beautiful that human construction and civilization pales in comparison. And ofc, I liked finally learning more about Brax's past.
As the chapters progressed, I wasn't surprised to see that the dragon he wanted Carmen to kill was himself. Though, I do find it hard to believe that he and Carmen love each other that much. Mind you, I'm not saying it's unbelievable that they care for each other, but love to the point that the sacrifice Brax detailed will work? Mm yeah, I'm not quite feeling or believing it to that extent yet, but these are short novellas so the plot has to advance pretty quickly. Still, all this isn't necessarily bad by any means. I guess, Carmen and Brax's relationship feels a bit rushed.
Anyways, it will be interesting to see what happens next. I very much doubt Brax will die even if the sacrifice succeeds.
I very much enjoyed learning about Drachia and Dreki. Seeing as I am a huge dragon lover, I loved reading about all the details and lore surrounding this continent where dragons live. How their city is so large and beautiful that human construction and civilization pales in comparison. And ofc, I liked finally learning more about Brax's past.
As the chapters progressed, I wasn't surprised to see that the dragon he wanted Carmen to kill was himself. Though, I do find it hard to believe that he and Carmen love each other that much. Mind you, I'm not saying it's unbelievable that they care for each other, but love to the point that the sacrifice Brax detailed will work? Mm yeah, I'm not quite feeling or believing it to that extent yet, but these are short novellas so the plot has to advance pretty quickly. Still, all this isn't necessarily bad by any means. I guess, Carmen and Brax's relationship feels a bit rushed.
Anyways, it will be interesting to see what happens next. I very much doubt Brax will die even if the sacrifice succeeds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2019
Carmen has now entered the second phase of her agreement with Brax, where she now has to do his bidding, and is becoming more and more convinced that he wants her to kill his father.
She is also trying to come to terms with the changes within her, which they think is due to her having one of Brax's eyes.
Carmen finds out she is way off as to who Brax wants, and indeed insists, she kills. Can she do it? Can Carmen keep the oath she swore?
SPOILER ALERT: The Author, naughty man that he is, has, at the end of this book, included the first chapter of Book 5 for the Readers who have to know the outcome NOW.
I personally didn't go there as despite how much I would love to know what Carmen decided to do. So Arthur Slade, please hurry and finish Book 5 for those Readers like me, who didn't take a peek.
I received this book as an ARC from the Author and have chosen to leave a review. Happy reading. Annemarie
She is also trying to come to terms with the changes within her, which they think is due to her having one of Brax's eyes.
Carmen finds out she is way off as to who Brax wants, and indeed insists, she kills. Can she do it? Can Carmen keep the oath she swore?
SPOILER ALERT: The Author, naughty man that he is, has, at the end of this book, included the first chapter of Book 5 for the Readers who have to know the outcome NOW.
I personally didn't go there as despite how much I would love to know what Carmen decided to do. So Arthur Slade, please hurry and finish Book 5 for those Readers like me, who didn't take a peek.
I received this book as an ARC from the Author and have chosen to leave a review. Happy reading. Annemarie
May 7, 2019
This fourth instalment in the Dragon Assassin series takes Carmen and Brax back to the land of the dragons, to fulfil her side of their bargain. I'm not going to give away any more of the story than that - I HATE spoilers! - but I will say that it's full of drama, confrontation, revelations (especially about both dragons as a whole, and Brax specifically), and has a cliffhanger ending that leaves you desperate to know what happens next (even if you read the additional chapter!). I'm really enjoying this series and finding the serialisation a really interesting way to read it, but I especially love that there's not so long to wait until the next instalment!!
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
April 25, 2019
To Slay or Not to Slay
Brax takes Carmen the Assassin across the Bitterwaters so she can fulfill her solemn promise to slay an individual of his choosing. Arthur Slade's Dragon Assassin 4: Bitterwaters tells the tale. He takes her to the north land, the home of the dragons from which he has been exiled. We learn how and why.
He eventually tells her who she must kill on her word of honor and the reason why. Neither she nor we the readers want her to do it, but she gave her solemn oath, her word of honor.
Book 4 is the most emotional and exciting volume of all. A must read, but be sure to read books 1 - 3 first.
Brax takes Carmen the Assassin across the Bitterwaters so she can fulfill her solemn promise to slay an individual of his choosing. Arthur Slade's Dragon Assassin 4: Bitterwaters tells the tale. He takes her to the north land, the home of the dragons from which he has been exiled. We learn how and why.
He eventually tells her who she must kill on her word of honor and the reason why. Neither she nor we the readers want her to do it, but she gave her solemn oath, her word of honor.
Book 4 is the most emotional and exciting volume of all. A must read, but be sure to read books 1 - 3 first.
May 6, 2019
This is the fourth installment of this series. Although I've been enjoying the series, this has been my favorite so far. Our heroine is discovering her abilities and more about her companion. Carmen's journey isn't easy, as if it ever would be, but it is interesting. The land of dragons, my term, is fascinating. Glad that I was able to read the first part of the next book, as cliff-hangers are not my thing. However, now I am really wishing the next book was out. Really looking forward to seeing what happens to both of them next.
May 6, 2019
Well, Arthur Slade did it again. Another hit as he continues this story. Each segment I read makes me anxious for the next chapter to see what Brax, the dragon, asks Carmen to do to fulfill their agreement. I love the cover too since I love dragons. You do need to start at the beginning to know what is happening in this series. I received an ARC of this book. This is my voluntary opinion.
June 3, 2019
Awesome Book 4
In a way one can see things develop and some times it is best to take the stories without jumping to predictions. I hate jumping and I am so glad I didn't. Great read great storyline. Looking forward to more of the series.
In a way one can see things develop and some times it is best to take the stories without jumping to predictions. I hate jumping and I am so glad I didn't. Great read great storyline. Looking forward to more of the series.
June 3, 2019
Short but interesting
This book seemed too short with not much action. But I suppose in a series some books are more of a bridge builder. It still tells us more our about the two main characters, Carmen the assassin, and Brax the dragon. I still want to read the next book.
This book seemed too short with not much action. But I suppose in a series some books are more of a bridge builder. It still tells us more our about the two main characters, Carmen the assassin, and Brax the dragon. I still want to read the next book.
July 31, 2019
To short and expensive
I love it. I really hope the become mates as they love each other without even realizing it till the end.
I am dying to read book 5 now..
Hope I can get it soon.
This is a must read.
I love it. I really hope the become mates as they love each other without even realizing it till the end.
I am dying to read book 5 now..
Hope I can get it soon.
This is a must read.
October 8, 2019
Ended strangely..
I enjoyed the book, but the ending caught me off guard and is one of those that only seeks to commit you to the next book and not finish the story. Each book should stand alone to be a good series!
I enjoyed the book, but the ending caught me off guard and is one of those that only seeks to commit you to the next book and not finish the story. Each book should stand alone to be a good series!
May 5, 2019
I really enjoy this series. A female protagonist and a dragon companion are a great combination. In this version, it’s pay back time.
May 6, 2019
Short but amazing. This book is absolutely fabulous.
May 16, 2019
Excellent
Once started, could not put it down. Loved the ending, dying for book 5 now. Story line was a surprise lol.
Once started, could not put it down. Loved the ending, dying for book 5 now. Story line was a surprise lol.
May 19, 2019
Zero
Was all set to give a five star rating until the end. Then, to make matters worse, the author bragged about loving a cliffhanger. Very arrogant and poor form.
Was all set to give a five star rating until the end. Then, to make matters worse, the author bragged about loving a cliffhanger. Very arrogant and poor form.
June 11, 2019
So good but . So short! I need more!
August 4, 2019
Characters
Love the growth of the character . Carmen stays true to her promise. The change in Brax is great. Waiting for the next installment
Love the growth of the character . Carmen stays true to her promise. The change in Brax is great. Waiting for the next installment
March 24, 2020
Too short. Good read though.
July 14, 2020
What an incredible series from one of my favorite authors! Full of action and a great plot. Highly recommend this author!
April 25, 2021
Great tale where Carmen, Brax and Thord save the ;and of the dragons.
October 29, 2021
4.5 Stars 🌟
O.M.G.
What an ending.
My heart……
O.M.G.
What an ending.
My heart……
November 18, 2022
This one was more a short story with a cliff hanger
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews