Dragon Ashes

Dragon Guard #3

by Debbie Cassidy

The Dragon Blood's took everything from us. Now it's time to take it all back.

Allies become enemies and enemies become allies. Love blooms in the unlikeliest places and even the iciest heart can be thawed.

But every victory comes with a price.

Anya's Adventure continues in Dragon Ashes.

A kick-ass fantasy with a slow burn whychoose romance. Fans of Rise of the Iliri and War of the Gods will love The Dragon Guard series.

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Paranormal, Adult, Romance, Magic, Fiction

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 14, 2021

About the author

Debbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden. Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head. She writes Urban Fantasy, Romance, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.

Connect with Debbie via her website at https://debbiecassidyauthor.com, email her at debbiecassidyauthor@gmail.com or check her out on twitter https://twitter.com/authordcassidy Sign up to her newsletter to grab a free short story, and stay up to date on new releases: http://www.subscribepage.com/f6u2k8 Or join her reader group on Facebook to stay in the know: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17595...

Reviews

[Misha · Rating 3 out of 5]

One more book…

My biggest gripe is about the journey to conclusion of this storyline. The first book came out April 2020. The last is expected November 2022. None of these books have been very long. Averaging around 230 pages. This one being the shortest. If the final book holds true we’ll have waited over 2.5 years for a complete story that should have been a duet at most. I love indie authors and I was so intrigued with this particular storyline that I broke my own rule to never begin a series that isn’t complete before I begin reading it. I loved the first two books enough that although I read them KU I then purchased them to further support the author. However, I really wish there wasn’t these long gaps between releases. It has really put a damper on my feelings about the series. 2.5 years is too long. So I will complete this series because I’m fully invested in the outcome, but I likely won’t start another series with this author because I just can’t with that kind of timeline and unnecessary number of books. Again this could have been a duet instead of four books.

All that being said, there was fairly good plot movement. Disappointed with the Dante situation for many reasons. Really wish the author hadn’t gone there. The author seemed disconnected from her own story and seemed to be heavily relying on plot twists & surprises. Disappointed that although the key characters know certain facts they do very little to mitigate opportunities for certain things to happen. It’s one thing for them to be outplayed, outwitted or even outnumbered, but for you to not do the simplest things to prevent certain things just bugs me. Why? Well because the author is pushing along the story based on the stupidity of the characters, but also wants us to believe them to be kick-butt and capable. Those two contrasting things don’t mix well. Sigh. All that said I still like the characters and the story overall. Hoping that if we have to wait we’ll at least get an epic conclusion. 🤞

[Debbie Cassidy]

[Jessy's 🌘only escape from reality🌒 · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't know what Cassidy was thinking when she decided to kill off Dante the way she did. It was so lame, I mean this is supposed to be a centuries old dragon. And then put Az in his body, I just wasn't feeling it. I mean she liked the guy and then didn't like the guy and now she's got to look at the guy's face while another guy that she loves is in his body. Ugh! It was just off putting. And what the fuck is up with Cunny. No, just no.
Vasper is my favorite and I did like Anya and somewhat enjoyed the plot so I may finish this series when the next book comes out.

[J · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed

I like all the characters. However, everything seemed rushed and the Dante storyline was disappointing and then he was tossed aside like rubbish. If book 4 is less than 200 pages probably won't be purchasing it because there are a lot of loose threads.

[Rhiannon Chillingworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be honest, I could barely remember anything from books 1 or 2, apart from some vague world building and characters, as it has been so long since I read them. I remember really loving Anja in the first book and she continues to be an excellent character.

One of the things I'd remebered from the first book was her relationship with Helgi being a big draw, which I'm happy to say continues to be a strong friendship.

I couldn't really remember her past relationships with the guys in this, but we see some relationship development in this one I'm sure fans will be pleased to see.

This is another good read from Debbie Cassidy, who always manages to deliver a solid RH series.

[Denise H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up at the end of book two, so I’d suggest a reread of the first two books if the details are fuzzy so you’ll know what’s going on. And wow, is stuff going on! There is a lot to sort through in this third book. Anya’s quick wit, determination, compassion, strength, and power will be put to the test. Secrets and betrayals, heartache, longing, and loss, shocking twists and turns, quirky thoughts and snarky banter, tons of action, danger and suspense, rising tension, smoldering looks and sexy times, love is found and friendship is lost…there is never a dull moment in these pages.

Anya’s always been able to handle herself and fight to the end for what matters most, but in this story her skills, resolve, friendships, love, and her very being will be tested at every turn. From the first page to the last it’s a gripping, wild ride. Just when you think you know what’s going on you’ll slam head first into a twist that will prove you don’t. And the ending is the most shocking of all – seriously, make sure the other books are fresh in your mind before you get here. You’ll need it for the twist at the end. Bring on book four!!!

[Steph · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars. I skimmed through this book at record pace after I realized that this is not for me.
First of it is less than 200 pages… really?
When reading the term that came to mind was drama lama. There is a lot of drama that is extremely eyeroll worthy. I am also extremely opposed to the forced mating and needing to have sex to strengthen the magical bond especially without an emotional connection. There also a weird body snatcher event that is highly convenient to the story. It solves a problem the writer kind off created and to me feels like a betrayal to 2 of the characters.
One of the things that weirded me out the most is the fact that Anya is mated to the guys that used to get hard ons for her mother. I can’t remember from the first 2 books if they actually slept with her mother on the regular but still that’s pretty Eww.
I’m not liking this one at all and will probably not continue the series

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie is trying to kill me. The next installment doesn't come out for another year and my heart has been torn from my chest. This series is everything I love about her writing, with beautiful characters and lore. There are twists and turns that I wish I could say I saw coming. This book tears your heart out and pieces it back together, just to blindside you with another revelation. I anxiously await book 4.

[MandyViolete · Rating 5 out of 5]

This. Book. This book!! I loved it so much!! The action kept me glued to the pages and zoning out of everything else happening in real life, it picks right back up from the last book - which also means some of the big twists will hit harder if the first books in the series are fresh in your mind so definitely take the time for a reread! We get so many wtf moments and some tear jerking ones, this really is like an action movie in your brain. Love it!!

[Siri]

Okay so i have to say this series is feeling just a lil bit rushed, i had wanted to get to know all the characters more and better especially the guys since they are official mates. Orion came into the picture in the previous book so we have not got that much on him. I did a quick recap of the two first books before i started this one, i had to cuz i had forgot a lot of things since it was such a long time ago i read it. When i reread it i liked Vesper the ass more than Dante, i did not really care about Dante even tho i know you can´t help who you love. But he did not deserve to die :((( nooo i really felt that Dante had not told his story, even if i did not like his behavior sometimes i will miss that guy.
My favorite thing was Anya and Helgi´s best friend bond, how badass the both of em is . Hell yeaaah
Omg that ending woa the cliffhanger now i have to wait

[Renia · Rating 2 out of 5]

2,5 It was a jumbled mess and i didn't like it so much as the other books in the series but i will read the next 'cause i want to know how the series ends.

[Naurarwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't see that coming. It took me a hot second to remember what happened in the previous book but I went back and had a quick look before starting this one to get myself back up to speed. Book three pretty much picks up where book two ended and there's a lot going on for Anya and her men. I really enjoyed this one and am left wanting book four cause I need to know what happens.

I love the entire worlds that the author Debbie Cassidy creates, and honestly she has one of the most brilliant minds because she has so many worlds, some of which are related, some of which aren't but they are all different in their own unique ways.

[Danielle (Danniegurl) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dang tons happen here (spoilers)

This part of the story was riveting. Though I am not too thrilled about Azazel and Dante. But also how messed up was Dante? Ugh. That was annoying bc I thought he truly had feelings for Anya. Overall I enjoyed the book and the journey. I especially love the banter between Vespar and Anya. Im excited to see what happened and what’s up with her Dad. This whole story is crazy.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

hmmm

Ok. 3.2 stars on this one. The book’s still good but there was a point like 80% in that I started the flag and my mind started to wander. The cliffy and end, yup didn’t see that coming. Buuuuuut yea I’m on the fence if I’m going to go to book 4. I’m pretty confident I know what’s going to happen and if it’s not the way I’m thinking. Oh well, I’m just going to say it’s ends the way I imagine. Yup, I just convinced myself to end the series here.

[Brittany Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will admit that it felt like ages since I had read the first two so I did a re-read of the previous books and I feel like that was the best thing I could have done. Anya has so much in this book I don't know how she can prioritize!! She is coming up to the coronation day, which then she has to handle the EMP with the humans, she needs to be mated to her mates ( yes it is starting!), she needs to figure out who's trying to kill her, and let's not forget....her mom!

We jump right in from book 2 and we are thrown on one hell of a ride! There is non-stop action and the pace will have you on the edge of your seat. One key player in this really shows his cards and manages to change fate entirely (sorry no spoilers) by his actions. We start to see the slightly softer side on Anya, but only slightly, as she starts to know and get more involved with her mates as well as accepting the mantle on Queen.

The world-building is still astounding, Debbie always does an amazing job in that area. You can really see things as they happen and get hooked in from the beginning. This book will leave you with a book hangover so be warned, but it is one of the best ones you'll have!

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up as the last one ended with so much action you might need to take a breath. Anya learns much more as her father awakens and makes plans to save her people. There is heartbreak and redemption in this one as well as a betrayal that will rock her world right into the next book. As always Debbie does a great job writing a group of hotties ( even one that's a little chilly) that requires a fan. Great book can't wait for the next.

[Retta · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! She is killing me,!!?. That ending?!!! It was oh, it just was! Unbelievable, really. I hadn’t a clue. Gotta give it to Debbie Cassidy, she definitely has a way of knocking one for a loop. Really, I have no idea how she does it, but I can never put her books down once I start and they always have me screaming for the next one. I absolutely love it. She is definitely a favorite of mine. Thank you Debbie, for taking me on a ride yet again!!!

[Missy Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie you sly girl. You sure do know how to hook us readers. I think you are one of the best writers out there.

You always have a spectacular ending that leads perfectly into the next book. That being said I would suggest that if you have not read books one and two recently that you do so. I always try to do so, so when I go into a series you can be fresh in what is happening.

I am always in love with Debbie's female leads. They are always witty, strong and someone you want on your side. Anya is just such a character. Love that she gets tested in this. But here comes Debbie with a hit you do not see coming.

I tell you guys she is amazing. I really need book four now!!!!

[Scheylis ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

[3.5] ¿Cómo me vas a dejar con un final así? 👁️👄👁️
Estoy totalmente impactada, de hecho, todo el libro andaba impactada. Aún estoy procesando muchas cosas, es que fueron bombazo tras bombazo… déjame recuperarme.

YO AMÉ las interacciones entre Anya y Vesper, simplemente todo que ver. Ellos dos juntos son todo lo que está bien, y me encantó porque aquí pasaron mucho tiempo juntos, lo que hizo que su conexión se hiciera más fuerte.

Yo soy fan de Anya desde el primer libro, pero debo decir que mi queridísima es un poco pick me… y llega a irritarme un poquito. 🫣🫵

No es normal lo mucho que me encanta Vesper, es que waaaoooo… simplemente waoooo, me tiene con una sonrisa de tonta enamorada. Y si tuviera que quedarme con solo uno, diría que es con Vesper. Se volvió mi único aquí. 🙂‍↔️🫶

Sigo sin tener idea de cómo me siento con Orión; estoy ni fu ni fa. No tengo algo concreto con él.

Desde el segundo libro, Dante se había caído de mi devoción y aquí me cayó tan mal… pero no sé si la autora lo hizo a propósito para ESO. Es que, si bien no me estaba cayendo bien, ESO se sintió absurdo.

Ay, Azazel… si bien en el libro dos dije que esperaba que la autora arreglara la situación de él, no esperaba que lo hiciera de ESA forma. La verdad es que ESO no me gustó, porque a mí me encantaba AZAZEL, y ajá… ahora se siente raro y ya no lo puedo ver igual. 🫠

Solo por ESA cosa que pasó es que no le puse cuatro estrellas. Si eso no me molestara tanto como lo hace, le hubiera puesto muchas más estrellas, porque este libro estuvo buenísimo.

Pd: no sé cómo lo hace la autora, pero me tiene pesadísima. Aquí, cuando fui a ver cuánto me quedaba, decía el libro disque “6 min” y yo: “¿queeee?”. Y cuando fui a ver cuántos capítulos me quedaban… en efecto estaba en el último xdsss.

[C. Erani Kole · Rating 4 out of 5]

whooaaa

This is totally a spoiler review and I have no regrets.

OKAYYYY. WHAT!? I had a total comparison moment of the four guys here and the four guys in that otherworld series where D goes to that cut-off town for a house left to her in a will. It’s got D, Nyx, Ori? Yes I’m terrible with names but my point is that even D had three guys she needed to mate with and one guy who’d been with her as the bff for forever and a day. And then of course that comparison went out the window when Dante decided to confirm that he loved her mother still and maybe only wanted to fuck her because of the bloodline. Like ew. I was honestly wondering how the author would work that out and then of course she goes and offs him and replaces him with the ghost bff and I am legit SHOCKED at this move. And kinda respect it? But baffled? I’ve never really seen this before (well except with the Riley series where the two dudes she couldn’t pick ended up playing the twisting game but ya know…)

Anyways I am kinda just surprised that the author did what she did. But it fixed things for me. I couldn’t handle someone loving my mom and then trying to get with me. Worse is if he felt PITY and didn’t know how to treat me. Like yes in this case I’m glad you’ve expired. Goodbye. Let Valhalla welcome you with strong thighs.

Anya is cool. I love how tough she is and I love that she doesn’t focus heavily on emotions and drama. She calls it like it is and moves on. So yummy for my mental health. The friend is great support and I love the children that act as anchors. The ending shocked me and I’m kinda wondering where this will go. I have my suspicions about what Az is. I hope I’m right.

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you had a long pause between reading the previous books and this one, I definitely recommend to reread books 1&2, otherwise the disconnection from the story might be crucial for the reading experience and forgetting the events or some details might create gaps in the story you want to have filled. Otherwise the story flowed really fast, with many twists and surprises, lots of drama, and some heat coming from the relationship development - after all, Anya got mated for the first time, getting intimate with her mates. Though I have to admit, if you think about who her mates are, it gets a bit weird. Especially knowing what she knows about her family now, and what Anya's current role is. I also wasn't very happy about the whole Azazel/ Dante situation. Both of them deserve more space, more focus, and I am missing a lot from Dante's story, but I fear now it won't be possible to get all answers. Other than that I really enjoyed the book, still love Helgi and I am rooting for her considering the new development in her private life. I also very much enjoy Vesper, he might be even my favorite character in the series. I only wish the final book would come sooner :)

[HighsAndTheLo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shit!!! I did not realize that this series wasn’t finished yet!!! That cliffhanger though y’all!!

Okay, let’s dive in. The third in the series was just as packed full of action as the first two. But there were more twists and turns that I was not expecting! People I never thought would be on the good side were and one I never anticipated as being bad totally was!! (Well kind of)

Poor poor Dante, but honestly I couldn’t see him and Anya being able to work things out when he was so in love with the dragon queen and she was still alive somewhere. It just would have been super weird. At least now Azazel gets to be apart of the group in a full bodied sense.

We still have no idea what Anya’s mom being back is going to be like. Vesper still has his own issues with her but I have a feeling he will be Anya’s greatest ally over Orion. He was so quick to listen to Anara’s orders in the wyvern nest. I mean yeah it saved the day but still there was no hesitation.

I can’t believe I have to wait so long for the next book!! 😣😣😣

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

What? No!!

Holy mother of a plot twist and cliffhanger! Why is this story so captivating?

Anya is starting to really grow as these books progress. She is more willing to accept help than before. So much happened that it is hard to keep up with at times, but I love it. There have been a lot of plot twists. I truly didn't see them coming and I feel like I'm in shock with the last one. Maybe a little sad as well. I'm not really sure what to say, I'm afraid anymore, and I'll be giving spoilers and ruining the story for others. I absolutely love everything about this story and I look forward to more books coming. While cliffhangers can be annoying, I'd like to remind anyone reading this review that they keep you coming back for more. They make it impossible to just set the book down and go to bed without starting the next book. They keep me coming back for more. I need to know what happens next. I cannot get enough of this one.

[Ann Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went back and reread books 1 and 2 before starting this one, and I definitely recommend doing the same for anyone who doesn't completely remember the plot line or characters. I found the three Derek Anya bonds with are truly good at heart, and I lo e that even Helga gets some action in this book. I was frustrated with the way the Dante character ended up, but I am looking forward to how he may save the day again in the final book. Everything made good sense for me up until the cliffhanger. That is where I became confused. Did I miss something or is everyone else confused too. We will just have to see how book 4 works everything out! Can't wait for it and hope it comes out sooner than scheduled!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series never fails to impress! This has been one of my go to favorites since I first picked up book 1 and Dragon Ashes did NOT disappoint.
Anya has always been strong. It’s a necessity for her to keep herself and her family alive, but now that she is the Dragon Queen she has many people depending on her ability to bring the Dragon leaders together.

This story did not disappoint and I couldn’t not put it down from the time I started reading to the time I finished it. As usual Anya had her mates who are as sexy as ever and her best friend Helgi who is one of my favorite characters in any book ever.
I highly recommend giving this series and book a read! You won’t be disappointed, I can’t wait for book 4

[Trickster831 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like Anja, she's a strong, smart, capable heroine with an amazing best friend. What I also love about the author is she doesn't busy herself with female drama. I thought the scene with Anja and Ria was really powerful, instead of squabbling over a man she takes the high road and they talk it out.

The only thing that confused me is Dante. I feel like when the author started writing the series she planned to go in one direction then in this book was trying to solve how to integrate Azazel so quickly made some drastic changes.

The other reason for this not being quite 5 stars is I love the female friendship and badassery of the women character. The romance though is a bit lack luster, I don't really feel the connection between Anja / Orion / Vesper.

[Tara Syrnyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is really playing with my heart! I am so glad we got to dive into Anja’s world again, I've missed these incredible characters! There is never a dull moment in Anaj’s life and her bestie Helgi is right next to her swinging punches and taking names! There was a lot happening in this book, a lot of information was sorted out and there was also a lot of relationship development that had me happy and sad! It was a real rollercoaster at times! I really enjoyed being back in this world. It was a well paced action and steam filled addition to a really fun, unique series that I am excited to read more of!

[Bookcrazed · Rating 4 out of 5]

a Strong Contender in the Category

I like the book and the author makes an old genre seem new; however, she does struggle with creating a picture with her words. Specifically with “designing” the backdrop/scenery. Also, and this is the biggest place for growth, she glosses over very important decisions the characters are making. Instead of explaining the thought process behind the decisions or creating a sense of contemplation, Debbie tends to skip over all of that. Going from problem introduced to solution decided. Overall, it is a really good book. I’m only picking so much because with a few tweaks it could be great. Can’t wait for the next installment

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this series but am a little confused about the release schedule since the author’s other series have quicker release dates for sequels.

That being said, it’s been a very long time since I read the last book, so I’ve forgotten quite a bit (I’ve been super busy lately and haven’t been able to read anything in a while, so I was desperate to get a quick read in and didn’t have time to refresh my memory on the first two books). I think I could have benefited from a recap at the beginning.

Overall, I enjoyed the pacing and characters. I’m excited for the conclusion!

I did, however, find the Dante death to be a little too convenient.

[Jennifer Soppe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeps amazing me

Anya, a human/dragon hybrid, has made the decision to complete the bonding with the three Dreki lords, Vesper, Dante, and Orion. As the story progresses, a new threat arises, the potential for loss looms closer, and they get further beat down just when things start to look up. Debbie Cassidy keeps amazing me in Dragon Ashes. The trip keeps getting more dangerous as Anya becomes more involved with her bonded mates.

I received a free copy of this book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.