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Magelands Eternal Siege #10
Dragon Eyre Badblood
Onward to Dragon Eyre.
Blackrose, mightiest of dragons, has returned to her world, and found it torn apart by civil war and a brutal occupation. For two decades, the elite Banner armies of Implacatus have struggled to subdue the homeland of the dragons – a world of island chains set amid a sparkling ocean, where the navy battle pirates for control of the lawless seas.
As Blackrose and Maddie’s return heralds the beginning of a new uprising, the dragon queen must make new allies, as well as find a way to tame the reckless and powerful witch, Sable Holdfast, and her dragon Badblood.
Blackrose, mightiest of dragons, has returned to her world, and found it torn apart by civil war and a brutal occupation. For two decades, the elite Banner armies of Implacatus have struggled to subdue the homeland of the dragons – a world of island chains set amid a sparkling ocean, where the navy battle pirates for control of the lawless seas.
As Blackrose and Maddie’s return heralds the beginning of a new uprising, the dragon queen must make new allies, as well as find a way to tame the reckless and powerful witch, Sable Holdfast, and her dragon Badblood.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2022
465 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
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Christopher Mitchell
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I love deserts, which is too bad as I live in Scotland, but the mountains, glens and lochs more than make up for it. My other love is Greek Tragedy, especially Euripides, and I also read history, science, fantasy, and pretty much anything about the Beatles…
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About Me
I love deserts, which is too bad as I live in Scotland, but the mountains, glens and lochs more than make up for it. My other love is Greek Tragedy, especially Euripides, and I also read history, science, fantasy, and pretty much anything about the Beatles…
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 24, 2022
The entire review is available at my blog
I received this ARC from the author and this is my unbiased review.
Badblood is the 10th book in the Magelands Eternal Siege series, and the 19th in the proposed 27 book saga. (Reading order)
It is also the start of the Dragon Eyre arc.
Blackrose has returned to Dragon Eyre to find her kingdom despoiled and bereft of inhabitants. Maddie, Sable, Badblood and the rest of the team are also with her. Blackrose tries to regain some of her past glory and is caught between her desire for vengeance and the pragmatic aspects of ruling. This also creates conflicts between her and the rest of the team.
I am a huge fan of this saga, and have been so, ever since I read ‘The Mortal Blade’ as part of SPFBO21. These books have kept me guessing as to the twists and turns in the stories, as well as the unexpected 'greyness’ of the characters. Characters that perform heroic deeds in one book do the opposite in the others and vice versa. The outstanding aspect of the writing is how the characters' personalities and circumstances drives their actions. The action and pacing stand out too.
Badblood is no exception to any of the previous books. In fact, it pushes the boundaries of the plot into unexplored territory.
The story feels darker than any of the earlier entries. Actions have consequences, and you can see the characters feel it in the story.
The story raises ethical questions about the occupation. While most of the Gods feel that the natives ought to be eradicated, a few try their best to ameliorate the commands given to them. Similarly, most of the natives seem to feel that the only option is to kill or drive away all the Gods and settlers. There is also the fact that the lives of the native humans is materially better under the occupation than under the Dragons, though they are treated as second-class citizens. I love seeing these thought-provoking and controversial questions in fiction, since it elevates these stories.
Sable stands out among the returning characters. She does her best to help others, in her unique way, but generally, her assistance is thankless. Her character has always been interesting. It is not surprising that her scenes typically stand out. The new characters are brilliant as well. We get to see the occupation from multiple perspectives thanks to these characters — as occupying gods, as pirates who just don't care, as dragons that have been beaten down, and as dragons that want to fight back.
The story seems to be leading to a point where we are not sure who will be on which side. It appears as though we might have dragons and gods on each side, with former allies fighting against each other. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
That said, I suggested following the reading order and not starting with Badblood. This entire span of 19 books is well worth the reading and I highly recommend it.
The entire review is available at my blog
I received this ARC from the author and this is my unbiased review.
Badblood is the 10th book in the Magelands Eternal Siege series, and the 19th in the proposed 27 book saga. (Reading order)
It is also the start of the Dragon Eyre arc.
Blackrose has returned to Dragon Eyre to find her kingdom despoiled and bereft of inhabitants. Maddie, Sable, Badblood and the rest of the team are also with her. Blackrose tries to regain some of her past glory and is caught between her desire for vengeance and the pragmatic aspects of ruling. This also creates conflicts between her and the rest of the team.
I am a huge fan of this saga, and have been so, ever since I read ‘The Mortal Blade’ as part of SPFBO21. These books have kept me guessing as to the twists and turns in the stories, as well as the unexpected 'greyness’ of the characters. Characters that perform heroic deeds in one book do the opposite in the others and vice versa. The outstanding aspect of the writing is how the characters' personalities and circumstances drives their actions. The action and pacing stand out too.
Badblood is no exception to any of the previous books. In fact, it pushes the boundaries of the plot into unexplored territory.
The story feels darker than any of the earlier entries. Actions have consequences, and you can see the characters feel it in the story.
The story raises ethical questions about the occupation. While most of the Gods feel that the natives ought to be eradicated, a few try their best to ameliorate the commands given to them. Similarly, most of the natives seem to feel that the only option is to kill or drive away all the Gods and settlers. There is also the fact that the lives of the native humans is materially better under the occupation than under the Dragons, though they are treated as second-class citizens. I love seeing these thought-provoking and controversial questions in fiction, since it elevates these stories.
Sable stands out among the returning characters. She does her best to help others, in her unique way, but generally, her assistance is thankless. Her character has always been interesting. It is not surprising that her scenes typically stand out. The new characters are brilliant as well. We get to see the occupation from multiple perspectives thanks to these characters — as occupying gods, as pirates who just don't care, as dragons that have been beaten down, and as dragons that want to fight back.
The story seems to be leading to a point where we are not sure who will be on which side. It appears as though we might have dragons and gods on each side, with former allies fighting against each other. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
That said, I suggested following the reading order and not starting with Badblood. This entire span of 19 books is well worth the reading and I highly recommend it.
The entire review is available at my blog
January 9, 2022
Captivating, enchanting and action-packed!
Fans of this series will not be disappointed to discover the world of Dragon Eyre! I would recommend reading this series in order so you grasp the character complexity, their relationships and continued growth. The storyline is like a tapestry, beautifully woven together and it would change if you forgot a thread or were missing a section.
As with other books in this series, I found myself making assumptions on where I thought the story would go and being caught off guard when something else happened. One of the things that captivate me the most about these books is the unpredictability, you never know for sure what would happen so anything is possible. I start reading and find myself transported to a whole new world with different rules where things are unfamiliar. I also love discovering everything through different eyes. Sable and Maddie may have the same experience but they view it differently and it may hold a different meaning for each of them.
We have familiar characters and new ones, each finds its individual voice so the story would not be the same without all of them. I don't know how Christopher Mitchell does it, but he finds ways to keep everything so fresh. It doesn't feel like there are any repeated or trope characters, they all add something. The more I read, the more I fall in love with this epic fantasy setting. There are so many possibilities and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I received an advanced copy of this story from the author and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
Fans of this series will not be disappointed to discover the world of Dragon Eyre! I would recommend reading this series in order so you grasp the character complexity, their relationships and continued growth. The storyline is like a tapestry, beautifully woven together and it would change if you forgot a thread or were missing a section.
As with other books in this series, I found myself making assumptions on where I thought the story would go and being caught off guard when something else happened. One of the things that captivate me the most about these books is the unpredictability, you never know for sure what would happen so anything is possible. I start reading and find myself transported to a whole new world with different rules where things are unfamiliar. I also love discovering everything through different eyes. Sable and Maddie may have the same experience but they view it differently and it may hold a different meaning for each of them.
We have familiar characters and new ones, each finds its individual voice so the story would not be the same without all of them. I don't know how Christopher Mitchell does it, but he finds ways to keep everything so fresh. It doesn't feel like there are any repeated or trope characters, they all add something. The more I read, the more I fall in love with this epic fantasy setting. There are so many possibilities and I can't wait to see what happens next.
I received an advanced copy of this story from the author and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
March 9, 2022
Another outstanding book in the series. If you felt dragon's presence was lacking before now, you’ll be delighted at how they’re featured here. Personally, I’m not sure that Blackrose has a suitable temperment to be a ruler. She shows up after being gone for twenty-some years and immediately starts a war. It appears that the world had been chugging along in a relatively peaceful manner prior to her return and stirring the pot.
Sable is the real hero here and does way more damage to the gods, demigods and Banner soldiers than Blackrose can even dream of accomplishing. Maddie is pretty much relegated to a minor role although she finally grows a pair and confronts Blackrose and the other dragons. There’s a little shit dragon rider named Ahi’edo who resents Maddie as the Queen’s rider and keeps trying to undermine her position.
We are introduced to two demigods - Austin and Meader - sons of the Governor. They seem to actually have consciences about how the native, AKA sub-created human, population is treated as nothing more than slave labor. The third members of this society are settlers who have been brought in to populate and take over the land over time. Oh, and don’t forget the dragons whom the gods want to annihilate.
Natives Topaz and Ryan along with Vizzini, a landowner’s son, are shipmates and part of the flotilla set out to destroy the dragons. Pirates also make an appearance.
Lots of killing and very little romance. Sable has a couple of conquests that would probably have been better left alone.
Sable is the real hero here and does way more damage to the gods, demigods and Banner soldiers than Blackrose can even dream of accomplishing. Maddie is pretty much relegated to a minor role although she finally grows a pair and confronts Blackrose and the other dragons. There’s a little shit dragon rider named Ahi’edo who resents Maddie as the Queen’s rider and keeps trying to undermine her position.
We are introduced to two demigods - Austin and Meader - sons of the Governor. They seem to actually have consciences about how the native, AKA sub-created human, population is treated as nothing more than slave labor. The third members of this society are settlers who have been brought in to populate and take over the land over time. Oh, and don’t forget the dragons whom the gods want to annihilate.
Natives Topaz and Ryan along with Vizzini, a landowner’s son, are shipmates and part of the flotilla set out to destroy the dragons. Pirates also make an appearance.
Lots of killing and very little romance. Sable has a couple of conquests that would probably have been better left alone.
August 29, 2022
What it's about: Blackrose and Maddie have finally found their way to the Dragon Eyre, Blackrose's ancestral home, where the mighty dragon learns she is more important than she ever realized. Her power could turn the tide against the gods of Implacatus: but first, she and Maddie will have to gather the dragons to their side.
What I Thought: MORE BLACKROSE AND MADDIE! They are my favorite, favorite characters of this series, and one of my favorite examples of the dragon/rider relationship ever. Their loyalty to each other, even as circumstance become increasingly difficult, is truly beautiful. Also, the pivot to darkness is handled really well. This is definitely a series that gets more dramatic as time goes on, but it's handled well here.
Who Should Read It: If you've been reading this series up to this point, obviously, this is well worth continuing on with. If you've been hesitating to pick it up, but you love dragons, rider stories, or political fantasy, this one's for you (though honestly you do need to start at the beginning of the series).
What I Thought: MORE BLACKROSE AND MADDIE! They are my favorite, favorite characters of this series, and one of my favorite examples of the dragon/rider relationship ever. Their loyalty to each other, even as circumstance become increasingly difficult, is truly beautiful. Also, the pivot to darkness is handled really well. This is definitely a series that gets more dramatic as time goes on, but it's handled well here.
Who Should Read It: If you've been reading this series up to this point, obviously, this is well worth continuing on with. If you've been hesitating to pick it up, but you love dragons, rider stories, or political fantasy, this one's for you (though honestly you do need to start at the beginning of the series).
January 27, 2022
As with the other novels in the series, the story if fast paced, but still manages to contain enough details to quickly build a whole new world without making you feel you're lost. New characters are introduced and within a few pages you start to feel you know them. I like Christopher's writing style, and also the fact that he's prolific. The most frustrating thing with this genre is how long it can take to get to the next book in a series, never a problem with this author! If you've already started this series, this episode won't disappoint. If you're looking for imaginative world building, plenty of swords, dragons and magic, and a fairly gritty style, you could do worse than getting started on your journey through the magelands.
This review is based on a pre-release copy direct from the author
This review is based on a pre-release copy direct from the author
November 30, 2022
I came across Christopher Mitchell purely by chance and I’m a convert. Before I discovered Christopher and the worlds he was creating my favourite author was David Gemmell, so the bar was set high. Well, what can I say now, I am in love with this mans work. The worlds he’s created are amazing, but the characters he’s created, what’s not to like, they are complex, well developed and you feel that you know them and dare I say it, have a wee fancy for one or three of them. Then there’s the creatures and dragons and let’s not forget the gods, just marvellous. No spoiler alerts here, just buy the book, get lost in it and hope that time goes by very quickly until the next book in the series is out. Amazing author, so glad to have discovered him.
January 26, 2022
Return of the Queen.. Blackrose along with her Dragon / Rider group of rebels hit the Eyre running as it were,burning a ship right from the beginning. What will be the consequences of her return ? who will she lead? the politics of Dragondom ,the Godlings with their armies,and the different groups of humans that live on the island chain world do any of them come out on top ? The Joker in this deck is once again the Holdfast human with Godling powers. She has always done her own thing but will it work out for the better,or worse we shall see.I am an Honest ARC reviewer really like this series as you can tell by the rating. Strap in and start from book # 1 if you want the whole experience.
February 5, 2022
I have throughly enjoyed this book as much as all the others. The characters are complex, new characters come in and I enjoy reading about them straight away. I have not been able to put this book down, I have been fighting myself to slow down with it because I didn’t want it to end! I couldn’t recommend this series enough, start at the beginning and work your way through then all. You will not be disappointed, one of my favourite fantasy series! Thank you for making a world I can escape to which I love so much!
March 15, 2022
I have enjoyed the entire series, so far, but I have a couple of issues. First, what is up with all the smoking? It’s nonstop. I am not a smoker, but my parents were. It’s a horrible, stinky habit. To this day, when I see someone lighting up on TV, I can smell it. It adds a distaste to the experience of reading the books. Second, the syntax may be different in Scotland, but if…then, if… then, is just irritating. In my syntax, if implies ‘then’. Reading the word then over and over again makes ma almost crack my teeth. I know I’m being an a$$hole here, but remember, I did give you five stars.
December 27, 2021
In exchange for an honest review, I received an Advanced Reader Copy.
This book takes place on a new world in this series and does not disappoint. New characters are introduced and familiar characters are developing beautifully. Sprinkle in some gods and pirates and lots of action. I cannot wait to read the next book now that I am familiar with the world and the inhabitants. Christopher Mitchell is such an amazing author and it reflects in all of his books!
This book takes place on a new world in this series and does not disappoint. New characters are introduced and familiar characters are developing beautifully. Sprinkle in some gods and pirates and lots of action. I cannot wait to read the next book now that I am familiar with the world and the inhabitants. Christopher Mitchell is such an amazing author and it reflects in all of his books!
January 26, 2022
Having received an advanced copy for review I can honestly say this new setting in this book series doesn't disappoint.
Set in a new world there is action right from the start. New characters are introduced along with those we have got to know from earlier books. Christopher has maintained his very high standard in story telling whilst developing these new locations and characters. Look forward to the next instalment.
Set in a new world there is action right from the start. New characters are introduced along with those we have got to know from earlier books. Christopher has maintained his very high standard in story telling whilst developing these new locations and characters. Look forward to the next instalment.
February 2, 2022
Brutal
Great read of blood, god powers, dragons and war and at the centre the amazing Sable Holdfast. She is the epitome and in my eyes the centre fold of the story. Still trying to redeem herself for atrocities she caused in the past. She tries so hard to be good, a mortal with godlike powers, but who is misjudged, and distrusted on a regular basis. She is brutal and unrelenting but also caring and fiercely loyal to the few who accept her for what she is. A GOD KILLER
Great read of blood, god powers, dragons and war and at the centre the amazing Sable Holdfast. She is the epitome and in my eyes the centre fold of the story. Still trying to redeem herself for atrocities she caused in the past. She tries so hard to be good, a mortal with godlike powers, but who is misjudged, and distrusted on a regular basis. She is brutal and unrelenting but also caring and fiercely loyal to the few who accept her for what she is. A GOD KILLER
March 22, 2022
excited to read this chapter but very short
It’s a shame that it was so short and feel cheated slightly as I was expecting this story to follow the others in giving a full account of dragon eyre. It was a good story that carries on the series but I feel that I won’t be continuing the series any longer . I can’t recommend this as good value.
It’s a shame that it was so short and feel cheated slightly as I was expecting this story to follow the others in giving a full account of dragon eyre. It was a good story that carries on the series but I feel that I won’t be continuing the series any longer . I can’t recommend this as good value.
May 20, 2022
Another great story
While I love this whole series I wasn't sure if I was going to like a set of books without the Holdfast in it. Well it didn't matter because there was Sable. And what a Sable she was. Great story super characters and fantastic action. Loved it would write more but I got to go read Ashfall.
While I love this whole series I wasn't sure if I was going to like a set of books without the Holdfast in it. Well it didn't matter because there was Sable. And what a Sable she was. Great story super characters and fantastic action. Loved it would write more but I got to go read Ashfall.
March 24, 2023
Redemption at its finest
It was a very well written book once again. I love how Sable was able to redeem herself. The ending once again makes me ready to immediately start the next book to see what happens next. Way better than a tv series. Thank you Christopher Mitchell for another well written addition to your series!
It was a very well written book once again. I love how Sable was able to redeem herself. The ending once again makes me ready to immediately start the next book to see what happens next. Way better than a tv series. Thank you Christopher Mitchell for another well written addition to your series!
January 26, 2022
In exchange for an honest review, I received an Advanced Reader Copy. Blackrose returns to her World where she was queen before the invasion of the godlings from Implacatus. She learns the hard way that things have changed . And is not listening to those who were left so Trouble is on the way.
January 28, 2022
Dragon Eyre badblood
Wow, i started at the beginning thinking what could this book possibly be about and where will it go.
I loved this book. I loved following Blackrose, Maddie and their friends. Meeting new people and watching this all evolve. I think this may be a my favourite book so far.
Wow, i started at the beginning thinking what could this book possibly be about and where will it go.
I loved this book. I loved following Blackrose, Maddie and their friends. Meeting new people and watching this all evolve. I think this may be a my favourite book so far.
October 23, 2022
Not as good as previous books
Christopher Mitchell is a prolific writer. A good story line, but it all needs to come to an end at some point. This was one of his shorter books and the plotlines are getting more straight forward with each effort. The ending was rather rushed.
Christopher Mitchell is a prolific writer. A good story line, but it all needs to come to an end at some point. This was one of his shorter books and the plotlines are getting more straight forward with each effort. The ending was rather rushed.
December 30, 2022
I can’t put these series down
I can’t put these series down. I’ve been reading one book after another. I love the characters but also get so frustrated with them at times. Can’t wait to read the next book.
I can’t put these series down. I’ve been reading one book after another. I love the characters but also get so frustrated with them at times. Can’t wait to read the next book.
January 26, 2022
As ever Chris has written a fantastic story. With familiar characters and new ones to get to know, this is a great opening novel of his new series.
Read
January 31, 2022Great read
Can't wait for the next book.....Great read...10/10
Christopher thank you. Need a good read after Raymond E Feist books keep up the good work..Thank you
Can't wait for the next book.....Great read...10/10
Christopher thank you. Need a good read after Raymond E Feist books keep up the good work..Thank you
February 23, 2022
Great Book
Great book, but if you read the ones before it it is a awesome book that I don’t want to end..
Great book, but if you read the ones before it it is a awesome book that I don’t want to end..
December 31, 2022
4 1/2 stars
March 2, 2023
Ungrateful and stubborn are dragons.
A thrilling read with dragons and magic galore.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
I look forward to the next one.
A thrilling read with dragons and magic galore.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
I look forward to the next one.
September 21, 2023
Pirates and Dragons, a great mix
Who knew that mixing pirates and dragons could make such a great book. One of the funnest ones I. The series to read yet.
Who knew that mixing pirates and dragons could make such a great book. One of the funnest ones I. The series to read yet.
Read
September 10, 2025Loved it
June 2, 2023
A great start to the next chapter in this series. We swing back to looking at the progress of Sable, Maddie and Black Rose who has returned to Dragon Eyre. Black Rose and Sable come to blows about the imminent battle to take back this world. As you can expect all hell breaks loose and there are plenty of new gods, dragons etc to develop the story further.
September 1, 2022
Kindle edition
Started: 18/08/22
Completed: 20/08/22
Rated: *2.5 STARS*
Comments: Sadly, not as good as the series that proceeded it.
The characters' dialogue can be somewhat childish and stilted at times, and there's some inconsistencies with individuals' attitudes and mind sets; people who are touted at wise and intelligent will act in a clearly stupid manner, that runs contrary to their best interests. Character interactions can be a bit repetitive sometimes, too.
There's also a tendancy to make the plot overly complicated when there's a far simpler way to solve problems (but then it would remove all the excitement).
In all, it lacks a certain depth that brought worlds to life in the other books. Though its not great, the credit due to those previous stories, is enough to keep an interest for subsequent additions.
Started: 18/08/22
Completed: 20/08/22
Rated: *2.5 STARS*
Comments: Sadly, not as good as the series that proceeded it.
The characters' dialogue can be somewhat childish and stilted at times, and there's some inconsistencies with individuals' attitudes and mind sets; people who are touted at wise and intelligent will act in a clearly stupid manner, that runs contrary to their best interests. Character interactions can be a bit repetitive sometimes, too.
There's also a tendancy to make the plot overly complicated when there's a far simpler way to solve problems (but then it would remove all the excitement).
In all, it lacks a certain depth that brought worlds to life in the other books. Though its not great, the credit due to those previous stories, is enough to keep an interest for subsequent additions.
July 3, 2022
Dragon Eyre Badblood: An Epic Fantasy Adventure (The Magelands Eternal Siege Book 10), my twelfth read from prolific author Christopher Mitchell. When I want to read epic fantasy I first look for author Christopher Mitchell. With 23 books written over 3 series, I need to get going & read more Christopher Mitchell books. I look forward to reading more from this author. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. Now I need to go to the Magelands Origins Series, starting with Retreat of the Kell. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews