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Who will wield the Dagger—and the dragon?

Nyalin of the Obsidian Clan is determined to do great things. Sure, he hasn't inherited a single drop of his mother's legendary magic. And yes, the clan refuses to waste time teaching him. But his mother died so that he could live. He’s not giving up without a fight.

Lara of the Bone Clan isn’t one to give up easily either. So when her clan—and her father—demand that she set aside her dreams and marry the cruel and power-hungry heir to the Dagger of Bone? She’ll do anything to escape that fate.

Even take a chance on the famous orphan everyone knows has no magic.

Even befriend a dragon.

Lara thinks Nyalin is arrogant. He thinks she’s rude. The dragon has other opinions. But if they want to embrace lives of greatness, they’ll have to learn to work together. And unravel some dangerous secrets along the way.

But they have more enemies than they know. Enemies who won't stop until the empire itself lies in smoldering ruins.

A fantasy adventure set in an epic, sweeping universe, DAGGER OF BONE is the first novel in the Legends of the Clanblades trilogy. For lovers of spunky dragons, sword and sorcery with a dash of romance, and the occasional baked goods, you’ll explore a world of deep secrets, political intrigue, and extraordinary magic.

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 23, 2019

139 people are currently reading
796 people want to read

About the author

R.K. Thorne

16 books183 followers
R. K. Thorne is the author of over ten novels and novellas, ranging from heroic epic fantasy to romantasy to boisterous space opera.

The key ingredients in her stories are hope, optimism, humor, and fireworks—both the action kind and the kissing kind.

A long-time gamer and dungeon master, she's fueled by her addiction to notebooks and plants. Too much coffee, computer games, and really good books all keep her awake.

You can sign up for updates on future books by joining her mailing list here: http://www.rkthorne.com/get-updates/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Anne Smith.
64 reviews3 followers
June 28, 2020
I read up to page 100-ish. I really liked the story aspects of this novel. I cared about the characters and found that there was good tension in the broader plot points. The problems were in the writing style, which slowed down pace, reduced tension and threw me out of the dream enough times that I became frustrated and put it down - sadly — because I was invested in the characters and the tale, and looking forward to following their journey.

I think the flaws in style were quite basic writing ‘faux pas’ that the author could easily fix with a bit of effort and maybe a good editor. I wish the author WOULD do this because then I’d have some damn good books to read!

standard no-no number one - avoid ‘passive voice’ because it stops the flow of action and creates distance between the reader and the experience.
For example on the very first page: “His foster father Elix was stopped in the doorway, his lips thinned.” Would flow better and feel more active as “His foster father stood framed in the doorway.” or something like that. Also, “The bearded face that stared back was expressionless”. The content has something - there's feeling here, albeit some contradiction between the 'expressionless' and the 'lips thinned' in the previous sentence - but the style is awkward. A face floating and bearded. Suddenly bearded. Suddenly and for no discernible reason. This is not the worst example but it is one of the many awkwardnesses that throws me from the flow of the tale.

Standard no-no number 2 - information dumps that don’t flow naturally from the action. In Thorne’s case she often resorts to giving info in inner monologue in a way that feels like we’ve stopped the action so the tour guide can fill us in. - or worse, give us unnecessary info.

Ex: Character is taken through a building and then follows other character up stairs..... “He kept his mouth shut as he followed her up the stairs.....[more lines of description and then him cogitating as he climbs stairs]

....This building, however, was a meeting place for the entire clan. There was no fancy dining parlor for entertaining heads of clans and states, at least not as far as Nyalin could see.”

So he’s apparently walking up the stairs and drawing conclusions on something he has seen - but after the fact as an inner monologue. This might work in a murder mystery - the detective goes over the evidence so far and cogitates... But in an action-fantasy, generally you’d want to see it AS he sees it, AND his conclusions should be at least partly implicit in the descriptions - instead they are fed to you as an internal monolog info-dump, after the fact.

And then there's this ‘at least not as far as Nyalin could see’ tacked on the end. But Why? This bit of obviousness is completely unnecessary to the story. But I, the reader was forced to process this info and wonder why on earth it was included. Maybe the author thought that since he had not seen everything and could not be technically sure of his interpretation that the caveat should be included in inner monologue? Basically it looks like she thought - "Oh, hell, really it's not totally believable that he would be comfortable inferring only from what he has seen, that this building is "for entertaining heads of clans and states" so I'm going to tack on this caveat to make it more believable. This is lazy writing. And it's the straw that caused me to put down the book.

Standard no-no number 3 - chit chat in dialog that does not forward the story or reveal character.
'"And here we are.” Lara opened the door to his room with her baked-good-laden hand, then bumped the door open with her hip.'

I’m not sure this sentence should be in there at all, but I thought it did show some of her character’s casual manners and confidence which is one of the quirks that makes her a compelling character. But the “And here we are” is a banal bit of dialog that real people use (actually - who would say this - really?) but should never be uttered by compelling characters. Compelling characters only ever say interesting things that surprise and delight. Leaving in obvious stuff like “And here we are” dilutes the dialog and slows the action. I think it would have been more interesting if Lara had just bumped the door with her hip and not said anything. More drama, more casual confidence, more tension.

The examples above may seem relatively minor, but they are scattered on every page which alters the whole experience of the tale. I hope RK Thorne strives to grow as a writer and improve her style - if she does, I bet she could be BIG because her plotting and story were very good, which is not easy to do.
Profile Image for Ashes 🌚🥀🌝.
85 reviews8 followers
September 10, 2019
What a solid book to finish reading at 3am. There is so much to say about this book. This is my first read from this author and I am just blown away. So much creativity, world building, imagination of magic and tiny details. I adored it and appreciated it all.

******* SPOILERS ********* SPOILERS ********SPOILERS **********

CHARACTERS:

- Nyalin: "blackberries, secret romantic, 'beggars can't be choosers', Lara *heart eyes*, dimension traveller by head wound"

His character was just lovely, boring description I know but I just adored him. He reminded me of a cat. Easy going, pure and didn't deserve the bullying he got, JUST WANTS TO BE LOVED, willing to try literally anything, has a big heart and a bigger quarter soul ;)))
His back story unravelled in such an insane way, like im so excited for the next book CAUSE I NEED ANSWERS.

- Lara: "'FUCK THE SYSTEM, fuck you and YOU in particular', lions mane, cedar, dragon's daughter, 'We aren't mates!'"

Lara is a ball of fire. The kind that punches you if they like you. She has a damn heart of gold. She'd move mountains for the people she loves and it seems this girl loves very hard. Her strength was displayed from the first appearance and I loved her immediately. She's a fighter, intense blusher, likes fancy undergarments, and is always ready to kick some ass.
----Also 'dragonfly' nickname. It just clicked, author you think you're slick!!

-Yeska: "'i don't eat horses', 'DAUGHTER', the biggest Nyalin-Lara shipper to exist

Great name. This dragon's personality was just the best. I loved the maternal instinct displayed with Lara because in a way Lara needs it. And I laughed every time she encouraged Lara to do something bad.

- Pavan: bachelor emperor, long haired boi, 'i can't bake bread' yet IS AN OBSIDIAN BAKER, soul locker, demon/spirit-woman lover, is a cat????

It's not often one ends up liking royalty but I freaking loved this guy. He's a great ruler, nice father ** (needs some work dude), always laughing?? always adorable?? literally perfect??

I enjoyed all these characters (Faytou has my heart), even the bad ones (Zama I'm looking at you). This book flowed so well, the action, the subtle romance that made your tummy flutter. Part where Nyalin hugs her and kicks the door closed IS A WEEPING MOOD. Hardly worthy of fawning over but its very memorable. I'm excited for the next book and since this one ended on that note, I'm willing to wait.

Also the name of these clans are badass. Obsidian clan. Bone Clan. I wanna be a part of a clan too.

What I liked:
- the details. Magic has a scent? Dude. Brilliant.
- dragons. next book needs more details on theses dragons
- secret revelations coming to light!!!! in the best ways!!!!
- well detailed fight scenes


What I disliked:
-literally nothing, except us not getting details of them staying in bed together overnight how could you deny us this?
- i have to wait for the next book
Profile Image for Taira Meadowcroft.
84 reviews17 followers
February 3, 2020
I won this book in exchange for a review.

I didn't finished this book and got about a little over 2/3 full. The premise seemed interesting, this clans having magic and the dragon knife passing on to the next male leader. Then there's the Bone Clan daughter, Lara, who is set to be the wife of the next clan leader, but who doesn't want to be, and secretly takes the bone dagger for herself. And she tries to help the Nyalin figure out why only his magic shows up when she's around.

This story was hard to follow and the writing was eh. I could've slogged through, but ultimately decided not to. This is a story with a lot of characters and the story constantly jumped around, too many info dumps, slow in parts, but too fast in others.
984 reviews4 followers
August 14, 2023
A magical coming of age story with a few twists and potentially interesting characters. I wonder home many sequels are in the works.
Profile Image for Heidi Hanley.
Author 4 books19 followers
July 26, 2019
Forces are driving the kingdom apart. Someone thinks chaos is a great idea. Lara is strong and determined with a soft side. Nyalin is a dreamer and scholar with more backbone than he realizes. Together they can challenge the status quo. It won’t be easy, but with some expertly crafted secondary characters that move and shape the plot, they stand a chance. This book is all about meeting expectations, challenging the system and being who you are. Ms. Thorne has told this story with magic, humor, and thoughtfulness about what makes leaders. Lara, the female protagonist, simply cannot conform to the expectations of her clan and has the skill to back her challenge of her clan’s rules. Nyalin is the perfect complement to her brashness. These two will resonate with anyone who has felt less than, felt out of place in their own culture or community. As always, Thorne’s writing is captivating, with great pace, interesting magic and believable characters. There are several quotes I saved about the soul, about who makes the best leaders and what new love feels like. Such a great story. It definitely met my expectations and I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Rachel.
328 reviews11 followers
March 9, 2020
Well SHOOT!! I normally don’t read a book that’s part of a series until the series is done. Guess I didn’t look closely enough to this one. But that’s only a problem if the story is good, right? And this one is!

I can SEE how some people might not get into it. It’s a little less than engaging at first. There’s not much connection to either of the main characters and we almost feel like we are walking into the next series or maybe book 2 of something ... but I kind of found that interesting. And I can almost imagine the author has a prequel in mind already. But I digress. Once you break through that initial introductory part, this book really picks up.

What I LOVE is how optimistic, upbeat and LIKABLE both characters are. I mean REALLY. They don’t have annoying habits or traits that aggravate the reader. They get along well. There’s PLENTY of mystery and suspense and underlying secrets to keep the reader going. And although there is tension in the book between good and ‘evil,’ it’s not so much that it can be considered ‘dark.’ Which, I’ll be honest, I hate.

However, the book, the circumstances, the way the two MCs react to things..it’s all pretty realistic. And let’s stop and talk about the two MCs again. Neither of them is completely unbeatable and unstoppable and amazing, but nor are they wimpy pushovers. They’re just real people with a bit of magic (or capacity for such). And I just LOVE it.

And one more little spoiler for those who haven’t read this yet... I love Yeska. She just adds it for me. :)
91 reviews
June 15, 2020
What!

Spoiler alert: Ok, so this book left a lot of loose ends. So Nyalin is trying to get his magic unlocked and at the same time win Lara. Lara to keep from being married off steals a dagger and by mistake forms a bond with a dragon. Got it.. And ? I feel like the book stops there. The story doesn't round out. So what was the results of her actions. Yes we saw the dramatic ending, but were are they going? What happened to Raelt and his mom? What happened to the demon and the lady hell bent on killing Nyalin. After all that magic use in the arena and her promises to kill him, they just let him ride off into the sunset? Did Nyalin go back to talk to his Father? Why is his magic dangerous? What did Lara decide to do ? Was Andius held accountable for his despicable behavior or did he become clan leader? I can't be the only one that felt like Nyalin should have punched him in the face for kicking Lara. This was a decent read but left me unsatisfied.
Profile Image for Brigette.
152 reviews
January 28, 2020
Some spoilers below....


I really enjoyed this book! It was an interesting take on magic, and the schooling it takes to learn it all.

I thought the Bone Dragon was a cool additional character with a personality, which also seems to be rare in some of these magic/dragon/fantasy novels. The slow romance of Lara and Nyalin was lovely, and how different characters were receiving different information, but the reader was getting it all. The hints at what has happened to Nyalin's mother is also very interesting and makes me want to know more. The thing I didn't like was Andius, who is so evil but where did that come from?

I am excited for the next in the series! Hope we don't have to wait too long.

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,769 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2021
I hate cliff hanger endings but at least this one can leave you imagining a HEA and not getting your panties in a knot about what happens next. This was published in 2019 and here we are in December 2021 and still no sequel. I liked the characters and how they were represented. I wonder if Lana’s brother was murdered and if that will ever come to light. A lot of the mystery surrounding Nyalin’s magic was revealed but there is more to discover. And what about his mother? Is she dead or not? (I’m leaning towards not) Will that asshat Andius continue to declare himself clan leader?
169 reviews1 follower
January 19, 2020
Enjoyed the start of this new High Fantasy series

I loved the book. It was definitely relatively pure High Fantasy with dragons, magic, and demi-God like demons/spirits. Looking forward to the next book, which probably won't appear for awhile given that the Audacity Saga books were overdue. I found a small number of typographic errors (some due to the autocorrect). It didn't detract from the story, which was well paced. Looking forward to subsequent books.
Profile Image for bookish.reader.elle.
511 reviews28 followers
May 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I received it in a Goodreads Giveaway but that doesn’t change my review. I enjoyed the world building and unique magic systems. The characters felt very real and relatable. I liked the slow burn romance between the main characters it didn’t feel forced. I’m excited for the next book!
60 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2020
Legends of the Clanblades.

The very first book I have read from this author. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. It was hard for me to follow at first. I reread the first chapter again and was hooked. Dragons, magic, romance... good read.
14 reviews
February 12, 2021
Can't wait to read more books!!

Fantastic character interaction and interesting world. Really enjoyed reading! Not sure when more for this series will be available but I can't wait! Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Rachel H.
249 reviews5 followers
October 7, 2022
Chaotic mess

The plot line was too chaotic and messed up to really follow. They throw a lot of characters at you, jump around to different scenes and it's really hard to keep up with actually what's going on. It also keeps you from connecting with any characters.
Profile Image for Lynn.
94 reviews1 follower
June 20, 2023
Worth it!

I struggled with the beginning trying to understand the world, Magic and the rules. As the characters grew and the story continued it started to make sense and well worth the beginning skepticism I had.
6 reviews
April 1, 2020
True warriors!!

I loved the honor and dedication and fighting for what is good! I recommend to all the warriors out there!
512 reviews1 follower
August 14, 2023
I liked it

I liked it but it was so hard to get through I kept wanting to skip to the end. They're romance is very slow and there is so much anxt and frustration.
Profile Image for E.
169 reviews4 followers
January 17, 2020
Nyalin has lived his young life with questions. Why did his mother die at childbirth? Who is his real father? Why has he not been gifted with magic? He has tried very hard to gain acceptance from his clan but to no avail. Without magic he is just a great disappointment to all. The torment and abuse he has suffered however has taught him to survive. Nyalin’s only hope is to leave his clan and join another. Perhaps they can find the magic within him. This is the only way to make his mother’s sacrifice worth it – he must prove himself. On his way to the Bone Clan Nyalin meets Lara, the Bone Clan leader’s daughter. She senses a spark in him – magic? Nyalin is accepted as a student with the Bone Clan. The clan leader himself will test his knowledge and magic ability if there is any. Nyalin’s and Lara seem to have some chemistry. Nyalin needs her help and Lara needs his. Lara being the daughter of the clan leader is destined to become the wife of the next chosen leader, except Lara does not want to marry him. Her only hope is to find a way to help Nyalin in order to help her. Lara believes if she steals and hides the scared Bone dagger she can buy some time. Who knew that Lara would awake a sleeping dragon through the dagger? Nyalin’s and Lara’s adventure begins. Will Nyalin find his magic? Will her find the answers to his questions? Will Lara’s magic be strong enough for both of them? This story if filled with young love, deceit, secrets, a bit of mystery and lots of entertainment. The characters are complex and interesting. I recommend this story to all.
330 reviews
November 16, 2019
A lot of fun

A fun character- driven fantasy that can be enjoyed by adults and young adults alike. There isn't a lot of world building that happens in this book, but that is more than made up for by the excellent characters who are both relatable, intelligent, and competent. Will definitely buy the next book?
36 reviews
July 25, 2019
RK Thorne has done it again. This book is fast paced and easy to keep up with at the same time. I enjoyed reading about each new character. I even had time to learn to despise a few of them. There is so much detail in each part of the story with at least 3 story lines wrapped up into each other. A little bit of romance is present but a realistic amount, nothing crazy. A good amount of mystery and fantasy that just works is present as well. I can't wait for more to be revealed and explained to the main characters as the journey goes on.
397 reviews15 followers
July 25, 2019
Amazing!

Talk about the best random find on a later July day!! We get introduced to a whole cast of people where nothing is as it seems. Hero gone from the world too soon, her son treated like a beggar in his own home, the daughter of chief sold away to a cruel man and her father the chief unable and unwilling to stop it. And an evil mastermind sitting behind it all stealing their happiness and trying to destroy everything they hold dear. I can’t wait for book two!
Profile Image for Debra Stubbins.
334 reviews
July 27, 2019
A very refreshing story... recommend to read!!

WOW!! A thoroughly great read. A young hero with supposedly no magic joins with another clan to find it. A young heroine helps the hero and her soul mate. Together, they must overcome many obstacles.
Was not able to put down until finished and would recommend adding to the tbr list.
32 reviews
August 13, 2019
Exciting story

This is very well written. I'm looking forward to the next in the series. It was a little difficult at the beginning to understand what was going on, but give it a chance because it all begins to make sense and is a good adventure with dragons, mages, and magic swords.
101 reviews
August 13, 2019
I really liked this. trouble now is waiting for next in the series to come out.... i read so many on the kindle unlimited that i will struggle remembering i even started this series... but it was a great read. i like the way this is moving and will want to continue reading the series just hope i can remember to keep an eye out for when THorne releases the next one.
Profile Image for Deanna Stanley.
213 reviews6 followers
October 2, 2019
Interesting characters in an interesting world

I enjoyed both the characters and they're slow growth. The world building was excellent without perming the plot. I don't understand why the villain is doing what she's doing. That's my biggest problem with the entire story. I want motivation.
76 reviews
July 24, 2019
Fast-paced, great read!

I’m was so pleased to see this book show up on my list today. It starts off quickly and keeps the intense pace throughout. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s the future holds in this series.
Profile Image for Leah Deacon.
10 reviews3 followers
August 1, 2019
Oh my god this book was amazing!!!! If you like dragons, magic, swords and sassy back talking heroines that don’t take any s*!t read this book!!!!

Seriously R.K. Thorne has a gift! An amazing start to a new series that I’m sure will be another awesome story!!
Profile Image for Allison Brown.
Author 3 books5 followers
December 16, 2024
Second read: this is such a unique book. The idea of the clanblades and a cycle of worlds overlaid is really cool. On top of that, I really like the two main characters. Their banter is funny and the danger feels so real. Can’t wait to read the sequel now that it’s out!
Profile Image for Ed A.
162 reviews2 followers
July 29, 2019
Good Start

A very good tale. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and I’m looking forward to the next. I hope it’s not too far down the road.
698 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2019
Fairly good story!

A interesting story I wish it was a single story,but it's a series but I don't see book 2or 3 let's hope it's not 6 months or I'll forget it?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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