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Dragon Assassin #1–3
Dragon Assassin 1: Twin Fury
She's the only dragonrider in the world of Ellos. The empire wants her dead. But her dragon's snarky sense of humor might kill her first.Carmen is an assassin. She’d love to say she just graduated with honours, but that’s not how it worked out. First, the empire declared war on assassins. Next, there was a horrible betrayal at assassin school.Then a snarky, dangerous dragon came into her Brax. He loves books, goats and fighting against mortals and dragons alike. He’s also an outcast prince with his own dark secrets. And there's no way he'll submit to having a rider.A deal is struck that changes their lives forever. An assassin riding a dragon should be safe, but the emperor is hot on their heels. As the free realms fall, Carmen and Brax are on the run, desperately searching for a way to stop this war. And to get revenge.This boxed set contains the first three episodes of the Dragon Assassin series.1. Twin Fury2. Shadow Hunter3. Dark Wings
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2019
1014 people are currently reading
522 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 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 5, 2020
What a fantastic read by Canadian author Arthur Slade! This book is three books in one (Twin Fury, Shadow Hunter, and Dark Wings) and I sincerely hope that Scholastic decides to print another omnibus to continue this series because I am hooked!
Carmen and her twin brother, Corwin, were raised to be assassins. Despite an injury that left her with only one eye, she desperately wants to graduate with her classmates, so she undertakes a quest to gain extra points so she can qualify. While on this quest, she meets a captive dragon named Brax, and makes a deal with him that carry through the rest of the book. Together they face danger, narrowly escape disaster, strive to exact revenge, and uphold the oath of the Red Adapt Assassins.
It's hard to describe three books without giving away spoilers, so this is a very general synopsis of the story. Carmen is a character who grows in her ability and confidence, while staying true to what she believes in. She develops alliances with those she trusts, and is betrayed by others, but she continues to fight bravely and get back up when she's knocked down.
This high action fantasy story is filled with magic, mystery, determination, and a desperate desire to stay alive another day despite the odds.
Carmen and her twin brother, Corwin, were raised to be assassins. Despite an injury that left her with only one eye, she desperately wants to graduate with her classmates, so she undertakes a quest to gain extra points so she can qualify. While on this quest, she meets a captive dragon named Brax, and makes a deal with him that carry through the rest of the book. Together they face danger, narrowly escape disaster, strive to exact revenge, and uphold the oath of the Red Adapt Assassins.
It's hard to describe three books without giving away spoilers, so this is a very general synopsis of the story. Carmen is a character who grows in her ability and confidence, while staying true to what she believes in. She develops alliances with those she trusts, and is betrayed by others, but she continues to fight bravely and get back up when she's knocked down.
This high action fantasy story is filled with magic, mystery, determination, and a desperate desire to stay alive another day despite the odds.
January 7, 2020
This is a great series, and this omnibus version is a great deal!
Book 1 Twin Fury:
I have been a fan of Arthur Slades’s writing since reading both Dust and Tribes in 2002. I am always excited when he has a new boom coming out. And this time we are treated to not only an amazing story, but it is the first in a series, that is supposed to be released at the rate of one volume a month for a year. And man, oh man what a first episode this story is. For that is how this series is being written, sort of like they were episodes in a story. And we will tune in next month to the same Dragon Chanel for the next installment.
This story has a lot on the go:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Yes, there is a lot at play in this book. And it is really just setting the stage for the series. Carmen was at the top of the class in Assassin school, and then she lost an eye to her twin brother, Corwin, in fencing class. She waffles back and forth between believing it was an accident, and that he did it intentionally to take her place at the top of the class. Now a few years later they are preparing to graduate. Because of a punishment she is a few marks short of graduating. After all her work and striving to overcome her single sightedness. She is given a chance to earn extra points, enough to graduate. She must get a giant swan egg from the wild nesting grounds. Eight years of training will be for naught if she cannot get the egg. During the quest to get the egg, she encounters a Dragon, Brax, trapped in a cave, ensnared by magic. For her life she promises to return. But when she does everything has changed. For the Emperor has declared war on assassins. And what was to be her graduation night has seen bloodshed, betrayal, and destruction. Now she must make a new deal, and her only thought is revenge.
The story is tightly written in a first-person narrative. And readers will come to love and root for Carmen, even with her hard and at times crusty exterior. The pace is excellent. The setting and characters are masterfully done. The story ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of options for where it will go. I cannot help but keep thinking on or imagining Carmen and Brax’s flight into the night, and adventures to come.
The story reminds me of Zelanzy’s Amber books and also a bit like The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli fans of both will appreciate this new story. This is an excellent fantasy story, by a wonderful writer. Fans of fantasy will really appreciate the craft in the telling of this tale. It is an excellent book and I recommend you pick it up and give it a read! I have already read this book twice and look forward to the next installment.
Book 2 Shadow Hunter:
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!
Book 3 Dark Wings
This book is part of a series that is being released one section at a time over a year. In some ways it is like being a kid in the 70’s or 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 third instalment was ‘This series just keeps getting better and better!’ And I stand by that opinion. I freely 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 masterful pen. And this series and this episode in it are excellent offerings. 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.
Each volume in this book has a lot on the go, and this time is no different. I admit I was completely surprised by some of the action and a major plot twist in this specific volume. In this third episode we have:
An emperor with tricks up his sleeve
A brother with powerful new armour
A sister and her friends still set on revenge
A dragon locked into a promise to an assassin
Said, Dragon being owed a year of service once Carmen’s vow is completed
And just a few battles between assassins, those who betrayed the assassin guild, And the emperor’s very powerful guards
With each volume in the series to date the plot has thickened. With each puzzle piece we put together we realize the puzzle was much bigger than we thought, and we are missing the picture to help us put it together.
Book One Twin Fury focused around:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Book Two Shadow Hunter:
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
And this one we have the twists in the plot. I really did not see the major events in this volume coming. Some of them I would have expected much later in the series. As such I really have no idea when things will go in the next volume.
Another excellent read! A great book in a wonderful series. If you have not given these books a try, I strongly encourage you to. You will not be disappointed.
Read the reviews on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. And also an author profile and interview with Art.
Book 1 Twin Fury:
I have been a fan of Arthur Slades’s writing since reading both Dust and Tribes in 2002. I am always excited when he has a new boom coming out. And this time we are treated to not only an amazing story, but it is the first in a series, that is supposed to be released at the rate of one volume a month for a year. And man, oh man what a first episode this story is. For that is how this series is being written, sort of like they were episodes in a story. And we will tune in next month to the same Dragon Chanel for the next installment.
This story has a lot on the go:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Yes, there is a lot at play in this book. And it is really just setting the stage for the series. Carmen was at the top of the class in Assassin school, and then she lost an eye to her twin brother, Corwin, in fencing class. She waffles back and forth between believing it was an accident, and that he did it intentionally to take her place at the top of the class. Now a few years later they are preparing to graduate. Because of a punishment she is a few marks short of graduating. After all her work and striving to overcome her single sightedness. She is given a chance to earn extra points, enough to graduate. She must get a giant swan egg from the wild nesting grounds. Eight years of training will be for naught if she cannot get the egg. During the quest to get the egg, she encounters a Dragon, Brax, trapped in a cave, ensnared by magic. For her life she promises to return. But when she does everything has changed. For the Emperor has declared war on assassins. And what was to be her graduation night has seen bloodshed, betrayal, and destruction. Now she must make a new deal, and her only thought is revenge.
The story is tightly written in a first-person narrative. And readers will come to love and root for Carmen, even with her hard and at times crusty exterior. The pace is excellent. The setting and characters are masterfully done. The story ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of options for where it will go. I cannot help but keep thinking on or imagining Carmen and Brax’s flight into the night, and adventures to come.
The story reminds me of Zelanzy’s Amber books and also a bit like The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli fans of both will appreciate this new story. This is an excellent fantasy story, by a wonderful writer. Fans of fantasy will really appreciate the craft in the telling of this tale. It is an excellent book and I recommend you pick it up and give it a read! I have already read this book twice and look forward to the next installment.
Book 2 Shadow Hunter:
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!
Book 3 Dark Wings
This book is part of a series that is being released one section at a time over a year. In some ways it is like being a kid in the 70’s or 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 third instalment was ‘This series just keeps getting better and better!’ And I stand by that opinion. I freely 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 masterful pen. And this series and this episode in it are excellent offerings. 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.
Each volume in this book has a lot on the go, and this time is no different. I admit I was completely surprised by some of the action and a major plot twist in this specific volume. In this third episode we have:
An emperor with tricks up his sleeve
A brother with powerful new armour
A sister and her friends still set on revenge
A dragon locked into a promise to an assassin
Said, Dragon being owed a year of service once Carmen’s vow is completed
And just a few battles between assassins, those who betrayed the assassin guild, And the emperor’s very powerful guards
With each volume in the series to date the plot has thickened. With each puzzle piece we put together we realize the puzzle was much bigger than we thought, and we are missing the picture to help us put it together.
Book One Twin Fury focused around:
Family
Friends
Assassin School
Betrayal
A Dragon
A deal with said dragon
And more
Book Two Shadow Hunter:
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
And this one we have the twists in the plot. I really did not see the major events in this volume coming. Some of them I would have expected much later in the series. As such I really have no idea when things will go in the next volume.
Another excellent read! A great book in a wonderful series. If you have not given these books a try, I strongly encourage you to. You will not be disappointed.
Read the reviews on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Arthur Slade. And also an author profile and interview with Art.
February 23, 2020
I read Books 1 to 3 in this series in the Canadian edition, which includes them all behind one cover. The novel is fast-paced, the world-building expert and natural, and the characters have depth and detail. I especially appreciated the world-building; the author doesn't belabor the cities and realms he has imagined, but offers just enough description to bring them to life on the page without overwhelming the reader. This book felt like sliding through an epic movie . . . and a great movie it would certainly make!
March 10, 2020
Dragons and more
I think, perhaps, this is meant to be a YA story, but as it is well crafted, it will be enjoyed by all ages. Those who like stories of magic, wizards, heroes, war, and dragons will have a great time. One of my very favorite dragons. Now on to Omnibus 2
I think, perhaps, this is meant to be a YA story, but as it is well crafted, it will be enjoyed by all ages. Those who like stories of magic, wizards, heroes, war, and dragons will have a great time. One of my very favorite dragons. Now on to Omnibus 2
January 28, 2021
I am a bit of a snob when it comes to fantasy, and I am not a fan of dragons – I know many are, but for whatever reason, it is just not my go-to for reading. I do, however, love adventure, a well-written book, and am sarcastic by nature. Therefore, I usually pass over books with dragons in the title – not for me except when it happens to be a local author, then one must stop and read the blurb to give it a fighting chance. Once I read it, I knew I needed to purchase the audiobook. Lesson learned – sometimes books you think may not be a good read for you turn out to be phenomenal, as was the case with Dragon Assassin.
Dragon Assassin is an omnibus book with the first three volumes currently published in print. I, however, love audiobooks and listened to the series, divided into three audiobooks. Volume one and two contain three books, with the final third volume containing the last two books. Unfortunately, they are only available via Audible and currently, only the first three omnibus books are available in print via Scholastic (in Canada) – fingers crossed that changes.
Carmen and her twin brother Corwin abandoned as children live in an Assassin School castle. Initially, they cleaned and helped out, but once they were the appropriate age, the School of Red Adapt Assasins accepted them as students. Carmen was always at the top of her class, but ever since she lost her eye by accident from Corwin, her twin brother, Carmen has to work twice as hard to be as good as her fellow trainees. Unfortunately, being one-eyed, she is at a disadvantage and fails one of her graduation exams. To graduate, she must make up points by stealing a Black Swan’s egg that the assassins train and ride. On her way back, she stumbles upon Brax, a dragon trapped by magic chains. In return for her life, Carmen promises to come back and free the dragon. Brax feels he has little choice and agrees.
Upon Carmen’s return, things do not go as planned. Betrayed by her brother, now she is in danger and wants nothing more than to survive and seek revenge on Corwin. Carmen and Brax’s relationship now becomes more than a contract as they must work together to fulfill their goals. Non- stop action and the developing relationship between Carmen and Brax will keep readers flipping the pages or riveted to Clare Corbett’s narration.
Audiobooks need a narrator that brings the characters to life through pacing, voices and delivery. Clare Corbett does this and more. Her accent added to the story, and her voice was crisp and clear even while using a quick pace for the voice of Carmen. It is easy to distinguish between the various characters voiced throughout the book. In particular, Brax the Dragon’s personality, delivered at a slower speed and with a deeper tone, captured in my opinion, his sarcastic manner perfectly. Ms. Corbett also uses her pacing and expression to convey the emotions and intentions of the various characters. I definitely would listen to other books narrated by her.
On Mr. Slade’s website, there are detailed maps of the Ellos continent he created that readers may be interested in viewing. He has also written in detail the process of self-publishing this series on his blog that I found fascinating, gaining insights about his learning and the world of self-publishing.
I stated at the beginning that I am a bit of a snob when it comes to fantasy, but Dragon Assassin delivered. Mr. Slade created a world with enough detail to visualize the events playing out in my head and a few unexpected twists for readers. As the story evolved, so did the characters and the relationship between Carmen and Brax. I loved Brax so much that I tried to convince my husband to name our new puppy after him – sadly, I was not successful. I enjoyed this series from start to finish; it’s action-packed with a strong ending and one of my favourite series. My wish now is for Scholastic to pick up the remaining two volumes, and Audible releases its hold so others can access it and get lost in the story and love it as much as I did.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Gr. 5+
Dragon Assassin is an omnibus book with the first three volumes currently published in print. I, however, love audiobooks and listened to the series, divided into three audiobooks. Volume one and two contain three books, with the final third volume containing the last two books. Unfortunately, they are only available via Audible and currently, only the first three omnibus books are available in print via Scholastic (in Canada) – fingers crossed that changes.
Carmen and her twin brother Corwin abandoned as children live in an Assassin School castle. Initially, they cleaned and helped out, but once they were the appropriate age, the School of Red Adapt Assasins accepted them as students. Carmen was always at the top of her class, but ever since she lost her eye by accident from Corwin, her twin brother, Carmen has to work twice as hard to be as good as her fellow trainees. Unfortunately, being one-eyed, she is at a disadvantage and fails one of her graduation exams. To graduate, she must make up points by stealing a Black Swan’s egg that the assassins train and ride. On her way back, she stumbles upon Brax, a dragon trapped by magic chains. In return for her life, Carmen promises to come back and free the dragon. Brax feels he has little choice and agrees.
Upon Carmen’s return, things do not go as planned. Betrayed by her brother, now she is in danger and wants nothing more than to survive and seek revenge on Corwin. Carmen and Brax’s relationship now becomes more than a contract as they must work together to fulfill their goals. Non- stop action and the developing relationship between Carmen and Brax will keep readers flipping the pages or riveted to Clare Corbett’s narration.
Audiobooks need a narrator that brings the characters to life through pacing, voices and delivery. Clare Corbett does this and more. Her accent added to the story, and her voice was crisp and clear even while using a quick pace for the voice of Carmen. It is easy to distinguish between the various characters voiced throughout the book. In particular, Brax the Dragon’s personality, delivered at a slower speed and with a deeper tone, captured in my opinion, his sarcastic manner perfectly. Ms. Corbett also uses her pacing and expression to convey the emotions and intentions of the various characters. I definitely would listen to other books narrated by her.
On Mr. Slade’s website, there are detailed maps of the Ellos continent he created that readers may be interested in viewing. He has also written in detail the process of self-publishing this series on his blog that I found fascinating, gaining insights about his learning and the world of self-publishing.
I stated at the beginning that I am a bit of a snob when it comes to fantasy, but Dragon Assassin delivered. Mr. Slade created a world with enough detail to visualize the events playing out in my head and a few unexpected twists for readers. As the story evolved, so did the characters and the relationship between Carmen and Brax. I loved Brax so much that I tried to convince my husband to name our new puppy after him – sadly, I was not successful. I enjoyed this series from start to finish; it’s action-packed with a strong ending and one of my favourite series. My wish now is for Scholastic to pick up the remaining two volumes, and Audible releases its hold so others can access it and get lost in the story and love it as much as I did.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Gr. 5+
January 1, 2025
I read the three novellas contained in this novel a while ago. I loved the whole Dragon Assassin World. I decided to reread the whole series in these new editions. But I am getting ahead of myself a bit. When I first read these stories back in 2018-2022 and Art had planned to release a shorter story each month for a year, however that did not quite happen. There was however 12 novellas released in this format. Later he rereleased them in Omnibus edition, and then recently I discovered there were only available as novels. The original novellas were:
Twin Fury
Shadow Hunter
Dark Wings
Bitterwaters
Elder Magic
Royal Blood
Hidden Powers
Burning Empire
Old Enemies
Downfall
The Golden Spear
Deathwings
The Novel (omnibus editions break down like this:
Twin Fury
Twin Fury
Shadow Hunter
Dark Wings
Royal Blood
Bitterwaters
Elder Magic
Royal Blood
Burning Empire
Hidden Powers
Burning Empire
Downfall
Old Enemies
Downfall
Deathwings
The Golden Spear
Deathwings
Still later in their evolution Scholastic Canada released some of them in Canada in print format. But back to the volume at hand. The description of this book states:
“She's the only dragonrider in the world of Ellos. The empire wants her dead. But her dragon's snarky sense of humor might kill her first.
Carmen is an assassin.
She’d love to say she just graduated with honours, but that’s not how it worked out. First, the empire declared war on assassins. Next, there was a horrible betrayal at assassin school.
Then a snarky, dangerous dragon came into her life: Brax.
He loves books, goats and fighting against mortals and dragons alike. He’s also an outcast prince with his own dark secrets. And there's no way he'll submit to having a rider.
A deal is struck that changes their lives forever.
An assassin riding a dragon should be safe, but the emperor is hot on their heels. As the free realms fall, Carmen and Brax are on the run, desperately searching for a way to stop this war. And to get revenge.”
The story is tightly written in a first-person narrative. And readers will come to love and root for Carmen, even with her hard and at times crusty exterior. The pace is excellent. The setting and characters are masterfully done. The story ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of options for where it will go. I cannot help but keep thinking on or imagining Carmen and Brax’s flight into the night, and adventures to come.
The story reminds me of Zelanzy’s Amber books and also a bit like The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli fans of both will appreciate this new story. This is an excellent fantasy story, by a wonderful writer. Fans of fantasy will really appreciate the craft in the telling of this tale. It is an excellent book and I recommend you pick it up and give it a read! I have already read these stories a few times. A great read in a wonderful series.
Twin Fury
Shadow Hunter
Dark Wings
Bitterwaters
Elder Magic
Royal Blood
Hidden Powers
Burning Empire
Old Enemies
Downfall
The Golden Spear
Deathwings
The Novel (omnibus editions break down like this:
Twin Fury
Twin Fury
Shadow Hunter
Dark Wings
Royal Blood
Bitterwaters
Elder Magic
Royal Blood
Burning Empire
Hidden Powers
Burning Empire
Downfall
Old Enemies
Downfall
Deathwings
The Golden Spear
Deathwings
Still later in their evolution Scholastic Canada released some of them in Canada in print format. But back to the volume at hand. The description of this book states:
“She's the only dragonrider in the world of Ellos. The empire wants her dead. But her dragon's snarky sense of humor might kill her first.
Carmen is an assassin.
She’d love to say she just graduated with honours, but that’s not how it worked out. First, the empire declared war on assassins. Next, there was a horrible betrayal at assassin school.
Then a snarky, dangerous dragon came into her life: Brax.
He loves books, goats and fighting against mortals and dragons alike. He’s also an outcast prince with his own dark secrets. And there's no way he'll submit to having a rider.
A deal is struck that changes their lives forever.
An assassin riding a dragon should be safe, but the emperor is hot on their heels. As the free realms fall, Carmen and Brax are on the run, desperately searching for a way to stop this war. And to get revenge.”
The story is tightly written in a first-person narrative. And readers will come to love and root for Carmen, even with her hard and at times crusty exterior. The pace is excellent. The setting and characters are masterfully done. The story ends on a cliff hanger with a lot of options for where it will go. I cannot help but keep thinking on or imagining Carmen and Brax’s flight into the night, and adventures to come.
The story reminds me of Zelanzy’s Amber books and also a bit like The Last Namsara by Kristen Ciccarelli fans of both will appreciate this new story. This is an excellent fantasy story, by a wonderful writer. Fans of fantasy will really appreciate the craft in the telling of this tale. It is an excellent book and I recommend you pick it up and give it a read! I have already read these stories a few times. A great read in a wonderful series.
June 12, 2021
A Lot of BIG Problems...
This had so much promise and it fell completely, unbelievably flat. It's been a few days since I finished reading it and I'm having a hard time recalling what happened. The premise started off so interesting, so fascinating, if not a bit predictable. I liked the idea of a one-eyed assassin having to make up for that difficulty with other skills ad abilities. Maybe having to rely on others, her human friends, her dragon companions. Too bad the author seemed to take the convenient easy way out with that plot point.
I HATE the way this author write dragons. I can understand humanizing the creatures a bit so they are a bit more relatable, but they way Slade writes his dragons, they may as well just be another human. They serve almost no purpose as a dragon other than he can fly. If he was replaced with a human and they were using horses or their swans (a creature concept I really, really liked and found underutilized) for transport, the story would be absolutely no different.
I liked Carmen at first, but she slowly becomes more and more insufferable as the story goes on. Constantly whining and demanding answers clearly no one would have would have been fine once in a while, but is so much part of her character is frustrating. I also find it nearly impossible to believe she was top of her class before she loses her eye. She is a terrible, terrible assassin. It doesn't feel like she was actually trained for this.
Now, this might be a bit nitpicky but I HATE, HATE the chapter titles. They are extremely cringy lines or moments taken straight from the chapters and they are just awful. I can't remember direct names, but it was along the lines of: A Bad Joke - characters make puns and point out how bad some of them are. Three Hands and a Talon - characters put their hands in a pile on top of each other to show solidarity, dragon adds his talon on to the top.
I will stick with this series, partially out of curiosity, partially because it was a free listen on Audible, but mostly out of spite. I've come this far. Why wouldn't I just listen to the rest?
This had so much promise and it fell completely, unbelievably flat. It's been a few days since I finished reading it and I'm having a hard time recalling what happened. The premise started off so interesting, so fascinating, if not a bit predictable. I liked the idea of a one-eyed assassin having to make up for that difficulty with other skills ad abilities. Maybe having to rely on others, her human friends, her dragon companions. Too bad the author seemed to take the convenient easy way out with that plot point.
I HATE the way this author write dragons. I can understand humanizing the creatures a bit so they are a bit more relatable, but they way Slade writes his dragons, they may as well just be another human. They serve almost no purpose as a dragon other than he can fly. If he was replaced with a human and they were using horses or their swans (a creature concept I really, really liked and found underutilized) for transport, the story would be absolutely no different.
I liked Carmen at first, but she slowly becomes more and more insufferable as the story goes on. Constantly whining and demanding answers clearly no one would have would have been fine once in a while, but is so much part of her character is frustrating. I also find it nearly impossible to believe she was top of her class before she loses her eye. She is a terrible, terrible assassin. It doesn't feel like she was actually trained for this.
Now, this might be a bit nitpicky but I HATE, HATE the chapter titles. They are extremely cringy lines or moments taken straight from the chapters and they are just awful. I can't remember direct names, but it was along the lines of: A Bad Joke - characters make puns and point out how bad some of them are. Three Hands and a Talon - characters put their hands in a pile on top of each other to show solidarity, dragon adds his talon on to the top.
I will stick with this series, partially out of curiosity, partially because it was a free listen on Audible, but mostly out of spite. I've come this far. Why wouldn't I just listen to the rest?
May 11, 2024
So, several months ago, I picked up A Dragon of Turicum by C.R. Bracher because the 'zon algorithm suggested it. It was great. A few months later, I picked up book 2 in Bracher's series (also good). When I snagged book 2, the 'zon suggested this book, and so I figured, what the hell, might as well give it a try, because Bracher's first book was also a suggestion and I was pleasantly surprised. Slade's book fell victim to the TBR pile, however, and slowly got buried, until a few days ago when I went searching for dragons yet again. I figured it would either be a quick DNF or it would surprise me (and I was so hoping it would surprise me). I was in luck!
This book was a lot of fun. Honestly, I'm just a sucker for a sassypants dragon and this book delivers. The characters are engaged and engaging, and the book is well plotted. I've got book 2 ordered already and it should be here next week. My only two real complaints with this one are:
1) In the first half of the book, you'll find a decent amount of errors, grammatically speaking. Things like using the word "both" before a list of three or more items. Stuff like that.
and
2) The ending is really, really rushed - the last few chapters read as though they're still in outline format.
Usually, those two things would be enough for me to be all, nah, I'm good, but the story - y'all, the story has everything you could possibly want, and the banter! The banter is just phenomenal. I cannot wait to see where this very large, very elaborate world goes next.
This book was a lot of fun. Honestly, I'm just a sucker for a sassypants dragon and this book delivers. The characters are engaged and engaging, and the book is well plotted. I've got book 2 ordered already and it should be here next week. My only two real complaints with this one are:
1) In the first half of the book, you'll find a decent amount of errors, grammatically speaking. Things like using the word "both" before a list of three or more items. Stuff like that.
and
2) The ending is really, really rushed - the last few chapters read as though they're still in outline format.
Usually, those two things would be enough for me to be all, nah, I'm good, but the story - y'all, the story has everything you could possibly want, and the banter! The banter is just phenomenal. I cannot wait to see where this very large, very elaborate world goes next.
June 13, 2024
This book review is for my fantasy peeps. I know that is a specialized genre. This is also a young adult fantasy fiction… so if you need to keep scrolling, feel free.
This was a free download on my kindle for me. I was most intrigued by it because it is set in Ancient Greece. I teach about Ancient Greece, and am always looking for things to make it more interesting.
I ended up really enjoying this book! Upon finishing it, I saw that it was a 5 book series, and I immediately purchased book 2 so I could keep reading!
This book follows Carmen. Her and her twin brother, Corwin, are being raised in the Red Assassin school. In fact, it’s almost graduation time! There is just one problem… Carmen doesn’t have enough points to graduate. Losing an eye in a sparring injury earlier in her schooling has left her behind in so many ways. There is a free pass that Carmen attempts… bring back a Black Swan egg. Which she does! Upon her journey, she does encounter a dragon. Dragons are scary and valuable to humans, and Carmen ends up striking a deal with the dragon. The assassin school has fallen under attack and all of her classmates and maestrus are being killed. Can the dragon help her enact revenge and keep her safe?
The dragon is snarky and sarcastic and I liked him very much. Carmen wins the “you should have killed that character while you had the chance” award. The journey to vindication was action packed and twisted and kept me engaged up until the very last page! I am excited to read the rest of the series.
This was a free download on my kindle for me. I was most intrigued by it because it is set in Ancient Greece. I teach about Ancient Greece, and am always looking for things to make it more interesting.
I ended up really enjoying this book! Upon finishing it, I saw that it was a 5 book series, and I immediately purchased book 2 so I could keep reading!
This book follows Carmen. Her and her twin brother, Corwin, are being raised in the Red Assassin school. In fact, it’s almost graduation time! There is just one problem… Carmen doesn’t have enough points to graduate. Losing an eye in a sparring injury earlier in her schooling has left her behind in so many ways. There is a free pass that Carmen attempts… bring back a Black Swan egg. Which she does! Upon her journey, she does encounter a dragon. Dragons are scary and valuable to humans, and Carmen ends up striking a deal with the dragon. The assassin school has fallen under attack and all of her classmates and maestrus are being killed. Can the dragon help her enact revenge and keep her safe?
The dragon is snarky and sarcastic and I liked him very much. Carmen wins the “you should have killed that character while you had the chance” award. The journey to vindication was action packed and twisted and kept me engaged up until the very last page! I am excited to read the rest of the series.
May 22, 2020
Dragon Assassin 1: Twin Fury
For someone of my age (60's) who has been in love with all things 'Dragon' for forever, I found this book absolutely delightful and am really looking forward to reading the remainder of this series. For those of a younger ilk, there is plenty of drama, deceit and wonder (it has a real live Dragon!) to keep you entertained and wanting more.
Arthur Slade has a way of writing that will keep the young entertained, and remind the not so young that it's ok to indulge their inner child.
Dragon Assassin 2: Shadow Hunter
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.
Dragon Assassin 3: Dark Wings
What a roller coaster ride! I thought Carmen was toast at least three times in this episode, but each time she was rescued by Brax. She couldn't find it in her heart to kill her brother (despite him almost killing her twice) but I think what she did do will be far worse for him than death.
Happy reading. Annemarie
For someone of my age (60's) who has been in love with all things 'Dragon' for forever, I found this book absolutely delightful and am really looking forward to reading the remainder of this series. For those of a younger ilk, there is plenty of drama, deceit and wonder (it has a real live Dragon!) to keep you entertained and wanting more.
Arthur Slade has a way of writing that will keep the young entertained, and remind the not so young that it's ok to indulge their inner child.
Dragon Assassin 2: Shadow Hunter
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.
Dragon Assassin 3: Dark Wings
What a roller coaster ride! I thought Carmen was toast at least three times in this episode, but each time she was rescued by Brax. She couldn't find it in her heart to kill her brother (despite him almost killing her twice) but I think what she did do will be far worse for him than death.
Happy reading. Annemarie
November 1, 2021
4.5 Stars 🌟
What a wonderful all encompassing tale. It is told so easily and with such smooth pacing. This is a YA story, yet it seems to be one of those that will and can be enjoyed by all ages.
The narrator is phenomenal (Clare Corbett) with her various voices seemingly perfect for each of the characters. I began this tale by listening to an omnibus- a collection of books 1 thru 3 - and I didn’t realize how much I had fallen into the story until the book ended. I realized that I had listened to the first three books in what felt like no time at all.
That right there, is in itself, the best kind of review. It transported me to a land with a crotchety dragon named Brax and an assassin named Carmen who it turns out really doesn’t like to kill.
Fun, Fun, Fun!!!
What a wonderful all encompassing tale. It is told so easily and with such smooth pacing. This is a YA story, yet it seems to be one of those that will and can be enjoyed by all ages.
The narrator is phenomenal (Clare Corbett) with her various voices seemingly perfect for each of the characters. I began this tale by listening to an omnibus- a collection of books 1 thru 3 - and I didn’t realize how much I had fallen into the story until the book ended. I realized that I had listened to the first three books in what felt like no time at all.
That right there, is in itself, the best kind of review. It transported me to a land with a crotchety dragon named Brax and an assassin named Carmen who it turns out really doesn’t like to kill.
Fun, Fun, Fun!!!
October 21, 2023
Help me read more books
Pretty good start to the series. I tend to like most stories with dragons, and this one is no exception. Even though the dragon isn't really a central character in the beginning, it turns out he's rather important in the overall view of things, and you can't beat that.
I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series or not, not because it isn't good storytelling, but just because I have so many other things to read, and assassins really aren't my kind of thing in general, although dragons certainly are, so perhaps I'll come back to this one later.
In any case, it's a good read for those of you who enjoy this kind of thing.
Pretty good start to the series. I tend to like most stories with dragons, and this one is no exception. Even though the dragon isn't really a central character in the beginning, it turns out he's rather important in the overall view of things, and you can't beat that.
I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series or not, not because it isn't good storytelling, but just because I have so many other things to read, and assassins really aren't my kind of thing in general, although dragons certainly are, so perhaps I'll come back to this one later.
In any case, it's a good read for those of you who enjoy this kind of thing.
October 23, 2025
As a one-eyed assassin, Carmen has a much harder time with her studies than any of her classmates. Between a scheming brother, an angry dragon, and a world on the verge of war, will she be able to beat the odds and become a great assassin?
Interest Level: ages 12+
Reading Level: ages 9+
I liked this book more than I expected to! Carmen is a clever heroine who, despite the odds against her, manages to stay strong and control her own destiny. The story is exciting and will keep readers engaged. I was surprised by the level of violence, as this book is listed as appropriate for kids as young as 10 in most places - I would say 12+ is a better rating.
Interest Level: ages 12+
Reading Level: ages 9+
I liked this book more than I expected to! Carmen is a clever heroine who, despite the odds against her, manages to stay strong and control her own destiny. The story is exciting and will keep readers engaged. I was surprised by the level of violence, as this book is listed as appropriate for kids as young as 10 in most places - I would say 12+ is a better rating.
November 26, 2020
A girl with plot armour playing assassin's
I finished the books in a hope that it would have some sort of improvement from the start that had a weak willed girl pull through without killing or being an assassin at all but it stayed right until the end.
Overall read if you want to read about a girl who trained since birth to be an assassin who somehow can do it without killing oh and she has a friend dragon thats about the story. Could have been great instead we got this... 1/5
I finished the books in a hope that it would have some sort of improvement from the start that had a weak willed girl pull through without killing or being an assassin at all but it stayed right until the end.
Overall read if you want to read about a girl who trained since birth to be an assassin who somehow can do it without killing oh and she has a friend dragon thats about the story. Could have been great instead we got this... 1/5
March 24, 2023
Best suited for teenage readers..
DNF at 10 %. A naive, rash, kind-hearted, one eyed girl studies at an assassins academy to become an assassin despite the fact that she would prefer to become a gardener... Even though she has problems with navigating, seeing and evading natural obstacles, mixing liquids, fighting and garotting due to her handicap and seems unable to hurt a fly the book claims her to be immensely gifted.
Unsurprisingly, the fact that the assassins accademy is both unaffiliated and it´s location known turns out to be less than ideal..
DNF at 10 %. A naive, rash, kind-hearted, one eyed girl studies at an assassins academy to become an assassin despite the fact that she would prefer to become a gardener... Even though she has problems with navigating, seeing and evading natural obstacles, mixing liquids, fighting and garotting due to her handicap and seems unable to hurt a fly the book claims her to be immensely gifted.
Unsurprisingly, the fact that the assassins accademy is both unaffiliated and it´s location known turns out to be less than ideal..
July 17, 2023
I loved this MG book, and the second is even better. I haven't read a MG novel this great since the Narnia series. I'd give it a 6/5 if I could. And the authorn is Canadian!
I also read 2 of his other books, one very short one and one steampunk, but was less enchanted with them. However, I'm not really a fan of steampunk. So if you have read anything else by this author and weren't impressed, give this series a chance. You won't regret it.
I haven't read the third in this series, and am eager to get it. I highly, highly recommend it!
I also read 2 of his other books, one very short one and one steampunk, but was less enchanted with them. However, I'm not really a fan of steampunk. So if you have read anything else by this author and weren't impressed, give this series a chance. You won't regret it.
I haven't read the third in this series, and am eager to get it. I highly, highly recommend it!
March 20, 2024
I had literally no expectations going into this and I really enjoyed it! Carmen is definetly the worst assassin though, she literally hasn't killed any one yet. If anything shes just really good at planning and being sneaky. I also really liked the dynamic between the characters. I wasn't expecting Carmen to be so matter-of-fact, couple that with Brax's snark and it worked really well. As a HTTYD lover I also liked the link between Brax and Carmen similar to Toothless and Hiccup (you'll get what I mean after reading no spoilies). I am keen to read the rest of the series and see where it goes!
February 18, 2020
Quite good.
This story is fun in parts, exciting in places, but boring in others. The action sequences and the small parts where the story progresss are fun, but there are a good few bits that could be cut or edit3 as they feel like they're just trying to bulk out the story. I'm glad it was a box set though because it made it feel like 1 book, rather than the 3 chapters it would have felt like had I read them separately.
This story is fun in parts, exciting in places, but boring in others. The action sequences and the small parts where the story progresss are fun, but there are a good few bits that could be cut or edit3 as they feel like they're just trying to bulk out the story. I'm glad it was a box set though because it made it feel like 1 book, rather than the 3 chapters it would have felt like had I read them separately.
August 8, 2020
Written while walking a treadmill
Some of us come into this world and are blessed with a sibling that should never have been born. Carmen loved her brother even after he cut her she out, she was a better assassin. In a world where you fly on the backs of a dragon or a swan with the help of two other assassin's and a dragon you head out to kill your brother for killing everyone at your school. No sex just mayhem.
Some of us come into this world and are blessed with a sibling that should never have been born. Carmen loved her brother even after he cut her she out, she was a better assassin. In a world where you fly on the backs of a dragon or a swan with the help of two other assassin's and a dragon you head out to kill your brother for killing everyone at your school. No sex just mayhem.
September 26, 2020
A surprising, mind catching story
On my wandering through the Kindle store I found this little gem. At first I was put off by the voice of the book as a little stilted to me but it soon felt appropriate to the story and it is the story that pulled me in strait away. Dragons, assassins, betrayal, and unbreakable vows...and that was in the first chapter! So, read on my fellow readers and become embroiled in these daring chapters!
On my wandering through the Kindle store I found this little gem. At first I was put off by the voice of the book as a little stilted to me but it soon felt appropriate to the story and it is the story that pulled me in strait away. Dragons, assassins, betrayal, and unbreakable vows...and that was in the first chapter! So, read on my fellow readers and become embroiled in these daring chapters!
November 21, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed the first three books. Just what I like to read. They held my attention, had interesting characters and a good story line. I'm on to Omnibus 2 which I am sure I will power through just like the first one. I am always happy when I find a series I like a lot with the only problems being finding another one when I finish this one and ignoring other things I should be doing (especially with Thanksgiving looming).
).
).
March 4, 2021
This is an Audible review.
What a totally unlikely heroine Carmen ends up being. A one eyed assassin who shouldn’t even be an assassin as she is memorable. A Dragon who is more than he appears to be. An unexpected meeting saves them both. I totally loved Carmans snarky attitude, her partnership with Drax, her defence of the Assassins creed. Her life is never going to be the same ever again. Highly recommended.
What a totally unlikely heroine Carmen ends up being. A one eyed assassin who shouldn’t even be an assassin as she is memorable. A Dragon who is more than he appears to be. An unexpected meeting saves them both. I totally loved Carmans snarky attitude, her partnership with Drax, her defence of the Assassins creed. Her life is never going to be the same ever again. Highly recommended.
November 30, 2023
Delightful dragon & assassin fantasy
Who would imagine the Two would go together? This first book in the series introduces the twins: charming villian (oops, I didn't mean to blind you in 1 eye!) And his much teased, hard-working sister. We also meet the dragon: tricked into a trap in a cave, alone an# hungry. Sister and dragon gradually form an alliance. We zoom off into a adventure of good and evil, where we start and we become.
Who would imagine the Two would go together? This first book in the series introduces the twins: charming villian (oops, I didn't mean to blind you in 1 eye!) And his much teased, hard-working sister. We also meet the dragon: tricked into a trap in a cave, alone an# hungry. Sister and dragon gradually form an alliance. We zoom off into a adventure of good and evil, where we start and we become.
February 3, 2020
Enjoyable
I enjoyed this book. I was a little skeptical at first, but was pleasantly surprised. The book has a few errors (missing prepositions), but they were easily ignored. I liked how the main character grew throughout the book. Brax is an intriguing character. Although one thing I hope is that the main character is able to conquer her foes in the end.
I enjoyed this book. I was a little skeptical at first, but was pleasantly surprised. The book has a few errors (missing prepositions), but they were easily ignored. I liked how the main character grew throughout the book. Brax is an intriguing character. Although one thing I hope is that the main character is able to conquer her foes in the end.
February 24, 2020
Fantastic tale
Orphaned to an assassin’s guild, facing remarkable obstacles, and fighting for survival, Carmen has to prove herself as she upholds an oath of remarkable proportions. The world building was strong. The story had plenty of action, twists, scheming, and a sassy dragon.
Orphaned to an assassin’s guild, facing remarkable obstacles, and fighting for survival, Carmen has to prove herself as she upholds an oath of remarkable proportions. The world building was strong. The story had plenty of action, twists, scheming, and a sassy dragon.
March 30, 2020
Happily surprised
I encountered this book via an ad on Facebook. I am so happy I did! It was clever, intelligent, adventurous and exciting, and it had my favorite... dragons. I kind of wished Carmen was a bit more ruthless (she is an assassin after all). So any complaint I have would be with respect to her softness. But otherwise, loved it!
I encountered this book via an ad on Facebook. I am so happy I did! It was clever, intelligent, adventurous and exciting, and it had my favorite... dragons. I kind of wished Carmen was a bit more ruthless (she is an assassin after all). So any complaint I have would be with respect to her softness. But otherwise, loved it!
August 16, 2020
Very good young adults books. (Omnibus 1-3)
I am still trying to figure out how author's believe kids from age 10 to 19 can have such strategic planning abilities at such a young age. Lately quite a few books offered now hover around hero children.
Guess I get to find out. I also have the next three books in an omnibus volume. (4-6)
I am still trying to figure out how author's believe kids from age 10 to 19 can have such strategic planning abilities at such a young age. Lately quite a few books offered now hover around hero children.
Guess I get to find out. I also have the next three books in an omnibus volume. (4-6)
October 16, 2020
What a beginning of an epic tale. Mystery, intrigue and betrayal. Carmen and Corwin are in their last year of the assassin academy. They have been training as long as they can remember. As children an accident left Carmen with only one eye and has been weakened as an assassin. On a mission to impress her teachers and be able to graduate, Carmen finds Brax, a dragon in distress. After Corwin betrays Carmen and her friends, Carmen makes a deal with Brax to get her revenge.
A fast paced read with well fleshed out characters and a fascinating story. Although the story continues, it wraps up this first part nicely.
A fast paced read with well fleshed out characters and a fascinating story. Although the story continues, it wraps up this first part nicely.
January 4, 2021
Bland
I felt like the main character was very bland. Right from the start she's waffling between hating her brother or not. She is also going to assassin school yet she comes across as very naive and incompetent. This was 3 books and it felt very dragged out. It barely felt like I read one book bc of the fact that almost nothing happens
I felt like the main character was very bland. Right from the start she's waffling between hating her brother or not. She is also going to assassin school yet she comes across as very naive and incompetent. This was 3 books and it felt very dragged out. It barely felt like I read one book bc of the fact that almost nothing happens
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