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Dawn of Assassins #2
Trial of Thieves
Fedor is a thief...and a killer.
Soren changed everything. Nothing can go back to how things were.
Armed with a magical blade, Fedor has no choice but to accept his first contract as an assassin.
His target is the most dangerous man in Nordturm.
Is the money a high enough price to kill?
Will he choose between the life of a thief, or the life of an assassin?
What will happen to the surviving members of his gang?
Soren changed everything. Nothing can go back to how things were.
Armed with a magical blade, Fedor has no choice but to accept his first contract as an assassin.
His target is the most dangerous man in Nordturm.
Is the money a high enough price to kill?
Will he choose between the life of a thief, or the life of an assassin?
What will happen to the surviving members of his gang?
- GenresFantasy
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2023
63 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Jon Cronshaw
101 books138 followersJon Cronshaw is a British science fiction and fantasy author based in the north of England, just south of the wall.
As a freelance features writer, he has had work published in local and national newspapers across the UK, including the Yorkshire Post and the Guardian.
He earned his PhD in history of art from the University of Leeds in 2011, focusing on the life and work of Anglo-American sculptor, Jacob Epstein (1880-1959).
He's a voracious reader, guide dog owner, ex-gamer, and wrestling fan.
As a freelance features writer, he has had work published in local and national newspapers across the UK, including the Yorkshire Post and the Guardian.
He earned his PhD in history of art from the University of Leeds in 2011, focusing on the life and work of Anglo-American sculptor, Jacob Epstein (1880-1959).
He's a voracious reader, guide dog owner, ex-gamer, and wrestling fan.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 9, 2023
Trial of Thieves is a great action/adventure fantasy with tons of surprises and entertaining characters. I highly recommend all of Author Jon Cronshaw’s works. And, especially, this series. I can hardly wait for book 3!
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from the a author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Disclaimer: I received this ARC from the a author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
December 20, 2022
Oh goodness! What a fun read! What a mess our crew has gotten themselves into! Their fortune, if one could really call it that, has changed. After eliminating Soren, in self defence, our crew are thieves not murderers after all, they suddenly find themselves "owners" of a house, a thriving, albeit shady business, ok, more than shady.... downright ruthless, which they are not, oh and a Wyvern to boot!
I loved how bumbling they are, the way they muddle through everything, how they try to be tough and keep up appearances, yet are so obviously out of their depth. Their thieving is dubious, their attempts at blackmail ludicrous and nothing goes the way they plan. Lev and Melita want to "expand" their business, as if being thieves wasn't bad enough! Fedor is cautious, he balks at the idea and wants nothing to do with that but Lev is impulsive, a know it all, he alternates between being very annoying and very likeable, while Melita, as boss of the crew, really wants to change their circumstances. With the demise of Yorick and Onwyth in a state they're down a crew member, and then Vern appears. Hmm, the verdict is still out on Vern...
Fedor also "inherited" a dagger, a dagger which has the ability to open portals to a shadow world but he has no idea what it's capabilities are and Dienerin, a Wywern, comes as a package deal. I love how the Wyvern runs circles around them. She's so cool! And funny...I couldn't stop laughing at her answers when desperately Fedor was trying to get through to her.
A really fun read, action, incredible shenanigans and banter. I can't wait to see what they do next!
I loved how bumbling they are, the way they muddle through everything, how they try to be tough and keep up appearances, yet are so obviously out of their depth. Their thieving is dubious, their attempts at blackmail ludicrous and nothing goes the way they plan. Lev and Melita want to "expand" their business, as if being thieves wasn't bad enough! Fedor is cautious, he balks at the idea and wants nothing to do with that but Lev is impulsive, a know it all, he alternates between being very annoying and very likeable, while Melita, as boss of the crew, really wants to change their circumstances. With the demise of Yorick and Onwyth in a state they're down a crew member, and then Vern appears. Hmm, the verdict is still out on Vern...
Fedor also "inherited" a dagger, a dagger which has the ability to open portals to a shadow world but he has no idea what it's capabilities are and Dienerin, a Wywern, comes as a package deal. I love how the Wyvern runs circles around them. She's so cool! And funny...I couldn't stop laughing at her answers when desperately Fedor was trying to get through to her.
A really fun read, action, incredible shenanigans and banter. I can't wait to see what they do next!
December 17, 2022
An Excellent action-packed addition to an entertaining series!
Trial of Thieves the second installment in the Dawn of Assassins series from Jon Cronshaw is a very entertaining read. Overall, its focus is Fedor’s reluctance to assume the role he was training for with Soren and the role he has inherited after besting Soren. Along with Fedor’s angst over his role, there is ample action and intrigue to keep the story highly entertain as it progresses to what is a satisfying conclusion not to mention an excellent jumping off point for the next book in this series. If you have read Mr. Cronshaw’s Ravenglass Chronicles or Wasteland series you will notice a number of similarities that make the Dawn of Assassins series very familiar, and make the reader wonder how these three series relate to each other, not to mention any of his future series.
Jon Cronshaw’s Ravenglass Chronicles series reintroduced me the Fantasy genre, and with the Dawn of Assassins series I can say it has not only rekindled an avid interest but has me looking at more fantasy reading.
If you are a fantasy fan, or a fan of Jon Cronshaw’s writing, this series is excellent, and would make a perfect introduction to his writing. If you are new t=and chose to read this series, fair warning that you will most likely be reading The Wasteland series and the Ravenglass Chronicles in the very near future. I received an Advance Reader Copy of Trial of Thieves through StoryOrigin and chose to provide this review
Trial of Thieves the second installment in the Dawn of Assassins series from Jon Cronshaw is a very entertaining read. Overall, its focus is Fedor’s reluctance to assume the role he was training for with Soren and the role he has inherited after besting Soren. Along with Fedor’s angst over his role, there is ample action and intrigue to keep the story highly entertain as it progresses to what is a satisfying conclusion not to mention an excellent jumping off point for the next book in this series. If you have read Mr. Cronshaw’s Ravenglass Chronicles or Wasteland series you will notice a number of similarities that make the Dawn of Assassins series very familiar, and make the reader wonder how these three series relate to each other, not to mention any of his future series.
Jon Cronshaw’s Ravenglass Chronicles series reintroduced me the Fantasy genre, and with the Dawn of Assassins series I can say it has not only rekindled an avid interest but has me looking at more fantasy reading.
If you are a fantasy fan, or a fan of Jon Cronshaw’s writing, this series is excellent, and would make a perfect introduction to his writing. If you are new t=and chose to read this series, fair warning that you will most likely be reading The Wasteland series and the Ravenglass Chronicles in the very near future. I received an Advance Reader Copy of Trial of Thieves through StoryOrigin and chose to provide this review
March 5, 2023
It just becomes unbelievable
Soren existed in secrecy but Lev and Fedor are following the exact opposite path and it's obvious it's not going to work out.
Trying to blackmail the previous contractors, getting Patrov to leave rather than kill him. It's all nonsense. Patrov's character as head of a protection racket isn't going to up and walk away any more than Myker will stop his own schemes... Vern is too bloodthirsty for a wet-behind-the-ears, brand-new recruit... and Melita suddenly dating a member of the Crows was laughably out of character too. The painstakingly slow character building from book one was pointless if you're going to forget who you created in book two... it's not an evolution into different people, unfortunately; it's more like completely different people.
There is no consistency beyond Fedor refusing to kill, moaning about it and being wracked with guilt... I almost want to shake him and say get on with it.
Soren existed in secrecy but Lev and Fedor are following the exact opposite path and it's obvious it's not going to work out.
Trying to blackmail the previous contractors, getting Patrov to leave rather than kill him. It's all nonsense. Patrov's character as head of a protection racket isn't going to up and walk away any more than Myker will stop his own schemes... Vern is too bloodthirsty for a wet-behind-the-ears, brand-new recruit... and Melita suddenly dating a member of the Crows was laughably out of character too. The painstakingly slow character building from book one was pointless if you're going to forget who you created in book two... it's not an evolution into different people, unfortunately; it's more like completely different people.
There is no consistency beyond Fedor refusing to kill, moaning about it and being wracked with guilt... I almost want to shake him and say get on with it.
January 10, 2023
Trial of Thieves - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Thieves Melita, Fedor and Lev are short of money, ideas for getting any, or in taking on much-needed new recruits in Jon Cronshaw's Trial of Thieves; when they get a mission, it quickly grows dangerous...so will Fedor's magic blade and ability to teleport between the realms save them? Who's their target? Who's Vern?
Are rival gang the Crows involved?
As things develop the group starts to disintegrate, not helped by a wyvern's revelations about the shadow realm.
Is this the end of the Thieves?
Only reading Trial of Thieves by Jon Cronshaw will give you the inside story - get it today!
Thieves Melita, Fedor and Lev are short of money, ideas for getting any, or in taking on much-needed new recruits in Jon Cronshaw's Trial of Thieves; when they get a mission, it quickly grows dangerous...so will Fedor's magic blade and ability to teleport between the realms save them? Who's their target? Who's Vern?
Are rival gang the Crows involved?
As things develop the group starts to disintegrate, not helped by a wyvern's revelations about the shadow realm.
Is this the end of the Thieves?
Only reading Trial of Thieves by Jon Cronshaw will give you the inside story - get it today!
January 27, 2023
Our choices affect others
Especially when we live in the midst of gang territory wars.
The author has some sage advice for those going into business for themselves:
Set your price
Learn how to read
‘Blend in with the nobs’
Never try to play a player
Keep your oaths to your crew
Remind yourself you can’t be bought
Know what you are and are not willing to do
Always remember the signal for a thirty-three
Don’t forget who you are and what you’ve been through
Fave quote:
‘There’s always time for cheese’
Now on the ‘Crucible of Shadows’ and then to continue with the entire ‘Ravenglass Chronicles’.
Especially when we live in the midst of gang territory wars.
The author has some sage advice for those going into business for themselves:
Set your price
Learn how to read
‘Blend in with the nobs’
Never try to play a player
Keep your oaths to your crew
Remind yourself you can’t be bought
Know what you are and are not willing to do
Always remember the signal for a thirty-three
Don’t forget who you are and what you’ve been through
Fave quote:
‘There’s always time for cheese’
Now on the ‘Crucible of Shadows’ and then to continue with the entire ‘Ravenglass Chronicles’.
January 12, 2023
This is such a great fantasy read as we carry on from where book one left us. Fedor is so not an assassin but he killed in self defence and now he is the master instead of the apprentice. This is well paced and full of magic, adventure and action in this gritty, thrilling and highly entertaining fantasy. It’s a fun read with some great characters and a crew who are so out of their depth as their loyalties are tested. Twists and turns and suspense will keep you hooked and reading till the very end!
January 15, 2023
Continuous action with paid contracts to fulfill by Fedor, the reluctant Assassin, with help from the crew. In between, Lev comes up with a plan to earn them money which constantly changes as they try to accomplish it.The other members of the crew also have their own agendas which add to the mix. They have also become embroiled with Myker's Crew 'The Crows' and not for the better. I find the banter between Fedor and Lev entertaining and can't wait to see what comes next. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2022
Fedor is a thief ,And a reluctant killer. The situation gets out of control as Lev's planning leads down a road that invites chaos. The crows , Mad Pat, and the filth oh my. I am an Honest ARC reviewer these books by Mr. Cronshaw tickle my Swords and Sorcery Fantasy bone. And will keep you enthralled till the conclusion. This is a Book #2 in an ongoing series .
December 11, 2022
A great dark fantasy series with a well written storyline, excellent world building, and an outstanding cast of characters. Page turning read with plenty of action, suspense, and lots of developing relationships. Very enjoyable series and looking forward to the further adventures with Lev and Fedor.
December 26, 2022
Good continuation from the first in series as things become much more complicated for Melita and her crew. Fedor really doesn't want to kill anyone, Lev wants to work the biggest con jobs and the others try to make the necessary changes as life moves on. The situation is escalating with seemingly no one in control. Perhaps the answers will be forthcoming in the next in series.
January 10, 2023
Another Great Action Packed part of the Series!
This installment in the series is still as busy as the first, just in a continuation. Fedor is the Master, and things have shifted a bit, but it still the missfits (of sorts) that go thru and do not really 'kill' anyone, but are Great at keeping one up late reading!
Thank you, Jon Cronshaw for another Great Read!
This installment in the series is still as busy as the first, just in a continuation. Fedor is the Master, and things have shifted a bit, but it still the missfits (of sorts) that go thru and do not really 'kill' anyone, but are Great at keeping one up late reading!
Thank you, Jon Cronshaw for another Great Read!
January 10, 2023
Fedor has to try to fulfill his contracts without actually killing anyone while deciding if he will become an assassin or stay a thief. There is plenty of action and suspense in this book and I can't wait for the next one.
January 11, 2023
Poor Fedor, pushed into a life he doesn't want and his friend Lev is no help. The problems they get into and the danger they encounter make for an action-packed book. I am looking forward to seeing what Cronshaw has in store for them next.
March 24, 2023
Character flaws
The first book had snarky, fast paced conversation. The characters were unique. In the second book the dialogue is convoluted and annoying. The characters are flat and stale.
The first book had snarky, fast paced conversation. The characters were unique. In the second book the dialogue is convoluted and annoying. The characters are flat and stale.
April 9, 2024
This series is getting much worse instead of any better. The entire book was just whining. Fedor is not an assassin. He's just a cowering boy with a magic blade following Lev around to help with truly stupid plans. What on earth did they think was going to happen? With no training, no clue what they're doing, nor how the magic Fedors using works they impulsively decide they have the ability to screw over multiple powerful people at once? It is a very frustrating read.
January 20, 2024
I don't think I've ever hated two main characters more than Fedor the Whiner and Lev the Narc.
Wanted to give up at about 40%. Finished it, but sorta wish I hadn't.
Wanted to give up at about 40%. Finished it, but sorta wish I hadn't.
March 27, 2023
There are authors...then there is Jon Cronshaw, an author that so immerses you into his world and story telling that your invested in the characters.
Fedor's story is continued in this dark fantasy. The personal struggles are evident. The guilt, regret, maybe even shame....it weighs on Fedor.
This author does an excellent job of world building. And your heart can't help but be drawn into the characters as you experience their struggles, their loyalty to one another, the way they stick together and face the things that come their way. The life of an assassin who doesn't want to be an assassin - what a paradox, what a conundrum, what an issue. The tension is evident and real.
Thank you for the review copy from StoryOrigin
Fedor's story is continued in this dark fantasy. The personal struggles are evident. The guilt, regret, maybe even shame....it weighs on Fedor.
This author does an excellent job of world building. And your heart can't help but be drawn into the characters as you experience their struggles, their loyalty to one another, the way they stick together and face the things that come their way. The life of an assassin who doesn't want to be an assassin - what a paradox, what a conundrum, what an issue. The tension is evident and real.
Thank you for the review copy from StoryOrigin
January 12, 2023
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. Prepare for a thrilling ride as Fedor seeks to complete contracts without actually killing anyone. The tight band of thieves has their loyalties tested as plans are made, and put into action. Will the plans succeed, as Fedor assures everyone it's the right way to go, or will things go astray and have them running for cover? Action packed with heartfelt moments and lots of suspense will grab your attention from the first page til the last.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews