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Hurog #2
Dragon Blood
CALL TO REBELLION
Ward, ruler of Hurog, is striving to restore his lands and people to prosperity, wanting nothing more than a quiet life. But when an old friend, escaping from High Hing Jakouen's torturers, seeks refuge in his keep, Ward can no longer ignore the growing rebellion against the tyrannical High Hing. He realizes that he cannot stand aside--he must join with the rebels.
However, Jakouen has a secret weapon with which he intends to crush the rebellion: Farsonsbane, a magical artifact that has destroyed entire cities. But first, Jakouen needs blood to awaken it. Dragon's blood. The very blood that courses through Ward's veins...
Ward, ruler of Hurog, is striving to restore his lands and people to prosperity, wanting nothing more than a quiet life. But when an old friend, escaping from High Hing Jakouen's torturers, seeks refuge in his keep, Ward can no longer ignore the growing rebellion against the tyrannical High Hing. He realizes that he cannot stand aside--he must join with the rebels.
However, Jakouen has a secret weapon with which he intends to crush the rebellion: Farsonsbane, a magical artifact that has destroyed entire cities. But first, Jakouen needs blood to awaken it. Dragon's blood. The very blood that courses through Ward's veins...
275 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 31, 2002
232 people are currently reading
3784 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Briggs
119 books30k followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 421 reviews
March 9, 2017
Definitely darker than the first book. There are some disturbing elements alluded to, including rape, sexual assault, child abuse, and torture. As is her usual style, Briggs does not go into a lot of detail, but there is no doubt what occurred.
The sequel takes place 4 years after the first book. Ward is now 23-24 and seems like a man rather than the teen he was. His peaceful existence rebuilding his keep is disturbed by the evil High King who has decided to take Hurog and cement his power.
There is a side story of romance between Ward and the daughter of a lord he met in the previous novel. Once again, a lot is packed into a relatively small space, but the action was non-stop and Briggs' talent for creating layered characters shows.
The sequel takes place 4 years after the first book. Ward is now 23-24 and seems like a man rather than the teen he was. His peaceful existence rebuilding his keep is disturbed by the evil High King who has decided to take Hurog and cement his power.
There is a side story of romance between Ward and the daughter of a lord he met in the previous novel. Once again, a lot is packed into a relatively small space, but the action was non-stop and Briggs' talent for creating layered characters shows.
August 21, 2024
No, this wasn't perfect! But it was one hell of a ride!
It hooked me up from the very first page and I couldn't set it down till the very end.
It gave me goosebumps and kept me guessing and the romance was... just right!
So yes, despite it's imperfections, I'm rating it a 5 and setting it on the re-read pile. Because I loved it!
It hooked me up from the very first page and I couldn't set it down till the very end.
It gave me goosebumps and kept me guessing and the romance was... just right!
So yes, despite it's imperfections, I'm rating it a 5 and setting it on the re-read pile. Because I loved it!
February 3, 2015
Executive Summary: Not nearly as enjoyable as the first book.
Audio book: Joe Manganiello once again does a fine job without really adding or subtracting from the story.
Full Review
After finishing Dragon Bones I was left with some lingering questions and looking forward to this book. For some reason this story wasn't as much fun. It's hard to put my finger on exactly why.
My best guess is the pacing. For such a short book, it felt like the plot meandered too much on unimportant details. The beginning was strong. It pulled me right back in again, and I thought everything was good to go. But then it got slow in middle, and felt sort of rushed at the end. I was sort of underwhelmed by the final confrontation especially.
I guess since I wasn't having as much fun with the story this go around and it made the quality of the writing more noticeable. I'm not one to spend much time commenting on the writing too much. I tend to leave that for English teachers/literary types.
I care a lot more about story and character development than I do about how elegant the prose are. If you're entertaining me, I'm not going to notice bad sentence structure/dialogue.
If I had to sum this book up with one sentence it would be "Hurog means Dragon." Why you ask? Well because it's said at least once per chapter. Often more than once. Or at least that's how it felt. Eventually I groaned every time another character said it.
I wonder if the writing was just as bad in the first book and I didn't notice. "Hurog means dragon" was said a few times in that book as well, but it didn't seem nearly so frequent. I didn't really find the dialogue or prose that bad.
Glancing over other reviews it seems like I may be in the minority. It's quite possible that if you liked the first book, you may enjoy this as well, but I mostly found it to a disappointing sequel.
Audio book: Joe Manganiello once again does a fine job without really adding or subtracting from the story.
Full Review
After finishing Dragon Bones I was left with some lingering questions and looking forward to this book. For some reason this story wasn't as much fun. It's hard to put my finger on exactly why.
My best guess is the pacing. For such a short book, it felt like the plot meandered too much on unimportant details. The beginning was strong. It pulled me right back in again, and I thought everything was good to go. But then it got slow in middle, and felt sort of rushed at the end. I was sort of underwhelmed by the final confrontation especially.
I guess since I wasn't having as much fun with the story this go around and it made the quality of the writing more noticeable. I'm not one to spend much time commenting on the writing too much. I tend to leave that for English teachers/literary types.
I care a lot more about story and character development than I do about how elegant the prose are. If you're entertaining me, I'm not going to notice bad sentence structure/dialogue.
If I had to sum this book up with one sentence it would be "Hurog means Dragon." Why you ask? Well because it's said at least once per chapter. Often more than once. Or at least that's how it felt. Eventually I groaned every time another character said it.
I wonder if the writing was just as bad in the first book and I didn't notice. "Hurog means dragon" was said a few times in that book as well, but it didn't seem nearly so frequent. I didn't really find the dialogue or prose that bad.
Glancing over other reviews it seems like I may be in the minority. It's quite possible that if you liked the first book, you may enjoy this as well, but I mostly found it to a disappointing sequel.
October 3, 2022
Somewhat less ambitious than the first book, and therefore more successful.
January 4, 2022
This is more 3,5 than 4 stars rating because I enjoyed the first book much more and couldn't put it down.
I'm not sure what exactly I liked less in this one. Maybe the ending and the whole overthrow the high king plot was anticlimatic and the characters thoughts were a little bit too repetitive and stilted or some dragon related artefacts and dragon appearances were insufficiently explained for my taste .
I didn't not like it per se but after the first exhilarating one day read of an interesting magic and dragon involving story I had higher expectations.
I'm not sure what exactly I liked less in this one. Maybe the ending and the whole overthrow the high king plot was anticlimatic and the characters thoughts were a little bit too repetitive and stilted or some dragon related artefacts and dragon appearances were insufficiently explained for my taste .
I didn't not like it per se but after the first exhilarating one day read of an interesting magic and dragon involving story I had higher expectations.
October 7, 2010
My view on Dragon Blood is that the narrative is more suited for epic fantasy, but appears to have been reduced (like a fine sauce) making it chock-full of history, legacy, prophecy, religion to the degree that I, as a reader, questions if it all really is necessary or if it could have been rewritten to simplify the world in which the story unfolds. As in The Hob’s Bargain there is a lot more meat in the story, than what Ms Briggs puts to use in the story.
It’s a good story, although a bit harsher than Dragon Bones as the ruler of the land tries to stem the rebellion against him. The harshness is somewhat balanced by the budding love story between two of the main characters. Ms Briggs use of moving POV, helps to lift the story by giving alternative perspectives of the unfolding story.
I sincerely hope that there will be a continuation of this saga as the ending is a bit abrupt and there is still uncertainties to unravel.
It’s a good story, although a bit harsher than Dragon Bones as the ruler of the land tries to stem the rebellion against him. The harshness is somewhat balanced by the budding love story between two of the main characters. Ms Briggs use of moving POV, helps to lift the story by giving alternative perspectives of the unfolding story.
I sincerely hope that there will be a continuation of this saga as the ending is a bit abrupt and there is still uncertainties to unravel.
May 11, 2010
Really, it's more like 3 1/2 stars. I found it a much easier read than Dragon Bones, but that my have been because dragons and dwarfs are not really my thing, so it took me a little while to get into that setting. I haven't read much fantasy like this, so I don't really know how Brigg's story rates compared to other books in this genre, but I thought it was a quick and enjoyable read.
August 29, 2018
Dragon Blood is hard for me to rate. It's one of those old-style fantasy novels that I feel like I have outgrown a bit. But I like Patricia Briggs' writing. She gives equal attention to the world and the characters and spins a lot of plots in a small number of pages. And I especially like how she develops romance. So i will probably read more from her old fantasy novels while I wait for her newest urban fantasy to be published. ;)
October 4, 2015
Final rating: 5/5 stars
This was awesome and worthy sequel of Dragon Bones. I loved it, but i noticed that this one was a lot more darker than the previous book. But it was great conclusion to the series and i love both of the books. Story was as usually, good and interesting but the book was more dedicated to characters like the previous one. But it concluded well. it also happens 4 years after the end of the first book.
____________________________________________
Characters :
____________________________________________
Ward: i loved him in this book as well. He has changed but not for worse, but for better; he got the support of his people and he is now respected by them, especially by his uncle and his family. He is strong even though he doesn't admit it, but he is also cunning. There were some times when he thought he would go insane and be like his father, because killing became something he enjoyed - but not always. He is still interesting as usual, and i felt for him when they put him into (major spoiler) He also tries to correct the wrongs his father made before him.
Oreg: Has finally been freed from the curse, though he had to be killed for that to work - and in process hurt Ward. He also learned that he was in fact dragon(and purple one for that matter, yaaaaaaaay), and even though he is free, he never left Ward's side and was always there for him, except when he couldn't be. He sacrificed his secrets for the greater good and mostly because he was too much grateful to Ward. He has become more relaxed, more normal than usual. Also, Ward always treated him as he would treat his own brother, so i was glad when he said: "A dragon and my friend, my brother," I said. "But never my dragon." (i think that in that moment, Oreg loved him even more xD)
Tisala: she is so awesome :D she is strong, warrior and she thinks that she is not good enough for Ward. She always turns him down, because she think he doesn't need someone like her, who is more a warrior than just a woman. Except for her stubbornness, she was fantastic character :D
Tosten, Ciarra and Beckram: I am glad that Beckram and Ciarra married and that they finally have children as well. (even though it's sort of an incest, but Shavig people find that normal). Ciarra didn't appear much as i hoped to, but still :/. And Tosten, he finally let go of his jealousy for Oreg (which was pretty much fun, because they are fun when they argue), and can be said that he grew up into a decent man :D.
Garranon :is very likeable character. He knew what was being done to him was not because he wished for it, but because he had no choice, but when the time has come to choose, he chose well. And i am glad he got what he wanted in the end.
Since there are many other characters in the book, i won't write anything else :D
____________________________________________
Overall :
____________________________________________
Definitely a must read, great book with action, and everything else (literally everything)
This was awesome and worthy sequel of Dragon Bones. I loved it, but i noticed that this one was a lot more darker than the previous book. But it was great conclusion to the series and i love both of the books. Story was as usually, good and interesting but the book was more dedicated to characters like the previous one. But it concluded well. it also happens 4 years after the end of the first book.
____________________________________________
Characters :
____________________________________________
Ward: i loved him in this book as well. He has changed but not for worse, but for better; he got the support of his people and he is now respected by them, especially by his uncle and his family. He is strong even though he doesn't admit it, but he is also cunning. There were some times when he thought he would go insane and be like his father, because killing became something he enjoyed - but not always. He is still interesting as usual, and i felt for him when they put him into (major spoiler) He also tries to correct the wrongs his father made before him.
Oreg: Has finally been freed from the curse, though he had to be killed for that to work - and in process hurt Ward. He also learned that he was in fact dragon(and purple one for that matter, yaaaaaaaay), and even though he is free, he never left Ward's side and was always there for him, except when he couldn't be. He sacrificed his secrets for the greater good and mostly because he was too much grateful to Ward. He has become more relaxed, more normal than usual. Also, Ward always treated him as he would treat his own brother, so i was glad when he said: "A dragon and my friend, my brother," I said. "But never my dragon." (i think that in that moment, Oreg loved him even more xD)
Tisala: she is so awesome :D she is strong, warrior and she thinks that she is not good enough for Ward. She always turns him down, because she think he doesn't need someone like her, who is more a warrior than just a woman. Except for her stubbornness, she was fantastic character :D
Tosten, Ciarra and Beckram: I am glad that Beckram and Ciarra married and that they finally have children as well. (even though it's sort of an incest, but Shavig people find that normal). Ciarra didn't appear much as i hoped to, but still :/. And Tosten, he finally let go of his jealousy for Oreg (which was pretty much fun, because they are fun when they argue), and can be said that he grew up into a decent man :D.
Garranon :is very likeable character. He knew what was being done to him was not because he wished for it, but because he had no choice, but when the time has come to choose, he chose well. And i am glad he got what he wanted in the end.
Since there are many other characters in the book, i won't write anything else :D
____________________________________________
Overall :
____________________________________________
Definitely a must read, great book with action, and everything else (literally everything)
August 27, 2022
I really enjoyed the conclusion to this duology, but it left me wanting more. While most of the plot lines are wrapped up, some are only hinted at. It makes me wonder if Briggs wanted to leave it open for a future book in the universe, although it's been 20 years without another book, so I have no idea.
As short as this book is, there was some meandering that occurred in the middle (politics again, sigh) that reminded me this was one of her earlier books (I think 3 of 4 Sianim books were earlier). This series is just not as tightly structured as some of her other books. However, it's also short, so she had to convey a lot of information in far fewer pages and I think she did a good job of that. And not surprisingly, she did a good job with the characters. I liked the romance in this book and thought it was a good balance to what was otherwise a lot more serious than the first book. I'm glad I decided to revisit this series, and am planning on tackling her Sianim series next.
As short as this book is, there was some meandering that occurred in the middle (politics again, sigh) that reminded me this was one of her earlier books (I think 3 of 4 Sianim books were earlier). This series is just not as tightly structured as some of her other books. However, it's also short, so she had to convey a lot of information in far fewer pages and I think she did a good job of that. And not surprisingly, she did a good job with the characters. I liked the romance in this book and thought it was a good balance to what was otherwise a lot more serious than the first book. I'm glad I decided to revisit this series, and am planning on tackling her Sianim series next.
October 13, 2016
Great narration and great story and plot.
April 30, 2018
Mini-Review:
Good book but I'm left feeling unsatisfied because it doesn't seem to be the end of the series. There's so much more left undone! It's not a complete story from start to finish like Dragon Bones. That miffed me a bit. This story is darker than the first and gives hints to amazing things that we may never get answers to. I think I'm more disappointed because there isn't a third book for me to jump into.
Ok. If I take that bit away, I would say, this was another engaging adventure into the world of the Hurog. Darker aspects that are frightening even though not a lot is said. It's left up to the reader's imagination. Mine can get pretty horrific. But those parts are balanced by love, fighting for values and the capricious allure of magic.
Good book. I want more! Yet, this does not compel me like the first and is not an instant favorite.
Good book but I'm left feeling unsatisfied because it doesn't seem to be the end of the series. There's so much more left undone! It's not a complete story from start to finish like Dragon Bones. That miffed me a bit. This story is darker than the first and gives hints to amazing things that we may never get answers to. I think I'm more disappointed because there isn't a third book for me to jump into.
Ok. If I take that bit away, I would say, this was another engaging adventure into the world of the Hurog. Darker aspects that are frightening even though not a lot is said. It's left up to the reader's imagination. Mine can get pretty horrific. But those parts are balanced by love, fighting for values and the capricious allure of magic.
Good book. I want more! Yet, this does not compel me like the first and is not an instant favorite.
putting-on-hold
October 3, 2017I've listened to 3 hours 49 minutes, and have 5 hours 45 minutes to go. It's not bad, although it's not great. I'm not opposed to finishing it one day, but at this point in my life -- I'm just not feeling it.
July 4, 2019
I totally lost myself in Lord Wardwick of Hurog's story. I definitely shared all of his suffering, his torture, and his nightmares. I had to pause at 64% to mentally regroup because his torment would’ve broken me into pieces.
In the end, Ward's happy ending and triumph was worth all the heartaches and absolutely made me yearn for more story from this world. Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
In the end, Ward's happy ending and triumph was worth all the heartaches and absolutely made me yearn for more story from this world. Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
"I have in my lands, . . . a basilisk, sometimes called a stone lizard. Oreg, my wizard, has enchanted it truly to stone in order to keep it safe. If you have a sanctuary for it, I will have it brought to you. Oreg can dispel the enchantment when and where you wish it. "
Silence fell upon the dwarves. . . The basilisk was the dwarves royal family's animal, a totem second only to the dragon who belonged to no one family, but to all of the dwarves kind . . . A slow smile spread across the king's face. "A generous gift, Lord Wardwick. I am honored to accept."
October 29, 2022
Well heck, imagine my disappointment that this "series" is complete in two volumes. Rats. I as looking for more stories about these characters. This book takes place some 5 years after the first and ends satisfactorily, of course.
July 7, 2020
My Thoughts:
I bought this book because I just have to read it after I listened to
Dragon Bones
. I just wanted more
Hurog
goodness from
Patricia Briggs
! At first, I bought
Dragon Bones
(Book 1) just because I wanted to hear
Joe Manganiello
's deep timbred voice. It wasn't really the book, it was
Joe
. But with
Dragon Blood
, it's the story and not about
Joe
's voice anymore. I would credit
Patricia Briggs
' wonderful
story telling quality
for that shift in the magnetic force!
This book is infinitely more interesting for having read
Book 1
. Reading
Book 1
first is therefore highly recommended, though it makes the story seems like a very thick book to read (2 volumes). Having said that, I have to say that it feels too short and there are no more books in this series!
Now, it would be difficult for me to find something which is as good to read to stem the tide of withdrawal symptoms!
And that is the only down side of this book... The paperbacks (of both
Book 1
and 2) is normal-sized and the font is not big so the actual size of the book is not short, but because I read it too quickly, it felt short. So, yes, this is a very fast read...
I am a touchy-feely and a visual reader. That means that the cover art plays a big role in my reading habit. I have to say that I am not fond of the cover art at all! Yet despite that strong deterrent I love this doulogy! That just shows you of how good a read I found this book!
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 5
Character development = 5
Story itself = 5
Ending = 5
World building = 5
Cover art = 3.5
Pace = 5
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 cherries
! At first, I bought
Dragon Bones
(Book 1) just because I wanted to hear
Joe Manganiello
's deep timbred voice. It wasn't really the book, it was
Joe
. But with
Dragon Blood
, it's the story and not about
Joe
's voice anymore. I would credit
Patricia Briggs
' wonderful
story telling quality
for that shift in the magnetic force!This book is infinitely more interesting for having read
Book 1
. Reading
Book 1
first is therefore highly recommended, though it makes the story seems like a very thick book to read (2 volumes). Having said that, I have to say that it feels too short and there are no more books in this series! Now, it would be difficult for me to find something which is as good to read to stem the tide of withdrawal symptoms! And that is the only down side of this book... The paperbacks (of both
Book 1
and 2) is normal-sized and the font is not big so the actual size of the book is not short, but because I read it too quickly, it felt short. So, yes, this is a very fast read... I am a touchy-feely and a visual reader. That means that the cover art plays a big role in my reading habit. I have to say that I am not fond of the cover art at all! Yet despite that strong deterrent I love this doulogy! That just shows you of how good a read I found this book!
Empirical Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 5
Character development = 5
Story itself = 5
Ending = 5
World building = 5
Cover art = 3.5
Pace = 5
Narration = 5
Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 cherries
September 24, 2019
I'm a bit surprised book two is rated so high only Goodreads. I've read the first book two times and enjoyed it both times, however, I was pretty disappointed in the second. It got much more convoluted with names, characters, places, and some references. There is way too much dialogue and not enough action in my opinion, but that could also be just my bias based off what I like. There's a bit of traveling back and forth from Hurog and other places.
I did thoroughly enjoy how some more of the magic showed itself in this book. I also love the take on the dragons.
I did thoroughly enjoy how some more of the magic showed itself in this book. I also love the take on the dragons.
September 19, 2016
4 stars
After I read Dragon Bones (you can read my review here), I decide to continue Ward's journey in Dragon Blood. The book is not standalone, and reader must read first book first to understand the world of Hurog. I devour Dragon Blood, not care that I read this past my bed time and when I reach "The End", it's already 5 a.m. Oh, well, the day was Sunday, so I'm not feeling guilty to not sleep ;).
Is Dragon Blood deserved my sleepless night? I very much said, yes.
I already state in my review of Dragon Bones, that my pet peeves about fantasy is the first POV, and in Dragon Bones, Briggs not just have 1st POV, but also 3rd POV for some chapter. Dragon Blood follow the same formula, and because I already adapt with the writing style, I can read it smoothly. I did like Ward here, he's mature, his voice is finally a voice of man. His character development escalated after the end of Dragon Bones. Four years already pass, Hurog is cursed no more, and Oreg, the Hurog's ghost is not what he seems to be. I don't want to spoil, but for my enjoyment, finally we get the dragon. I love dragon! So much!!
Old characters from Dragon Bones make their entree again in Dragon Blood with much better development. I also like that finally there's a romance. Dragon Bones just have a hint of it, but this book have plenty. Not much, tho. I already guess that Ward will be paired with Tisala, a warrior girl that he met in book 1, and this Blood, their romance are blossoming. I like that Tisala is no mere flower, she's not fragile, TSTL and warrior to the bone. Sure, she has her insecurity because she's know that she's not pretty enough (did we all?) and also older than Ward. But Ward never care about that, he want Tisala and will never give up for them.
I agree with some reviewer that Dragon Blood is darker than Dragon Bones, even the mystery is not much like the predecessor. I cringe when read about Ward's imprisonment because King Jakoven deemed he not unsuitable to rule Hurog. What happen to Ward (and also Tisala at first), is awful, even Briggs didn't describe it graphically (which make me grateful). But the effect still there and Briggs didn't try to smooth it, because what Ward endure is what make Ward as he is. King Jakoven indeed is icky, and I don't know why Garranon can endure his time as King's lover for 20 years. With the story flows, the reason why Jakoven try to use a dangerous artifact to make havoc is quite sad. Briggs challenge her characters, especially Garranon, about if his feeling to his lover is merely hatred, or there's some love left in his heart for the mad King.
While the mystery is not much (like I said before), the writing go smoothly. I'm glad that I read Blood after Bones in no time, because my memory of Hurog's world building is still fresh. I still remember the politic of the five Kingdoms, remember the clans, nationality and also the religious system. I think that's the opportunity to read a duology back to back. You don't need to wait a long time to read the next in series.
Consider to read Hurog's duology if you want to read a fantasy that is light but will affect you in so many ways.
After I read Dragon Bones (you can read my review here), I decide to continue Ward's journey in Dragon Blood. The book is not standalone, and reader must read first book first to understand the world of Hurog. I devour Dragon Blood, not care that I read this past my bed time and when I reach "The End", it's already 5 a.m. Oh, well, the day was Sunday, so I'm not feeling guilty to not sleep ;).
Is Dragon Blood deserved my sleepless night? I very much said, yes.
I already state in my review of Dragon Bones, that my pet peeves about fantasy is the first POV, and in Dragon Bones, Briggs not just have 1st POV, but also 3rd POV for some chapter. Dragon Blood follow the same formula, and because I already adapt with the writing style, I can read it smoothly. I did like Ward here, he's mature, his voice is finally a voice of man. His character development escalated after the end of Dragon Bones. Four years already pass, Hurog is cursed no more, and Oreg, the Hurog's ghost is not what he seems to be. I don't want to spoil, but for my enjoyment, finally we get the dragon. I love dragon! So much!!
Old characters from Dragon Bones make their entree again in Dragon Blood with much better development. I also like that finally there's a romance. Dragon Bones just have a hint of it, but this book have plenty. Not much, tho. I already guess that Ward will be paired with Tisala, a warrior girl that he met in book 1, and this Blood, their romance are blossoming. I like that Tisala is no mere flower, she's not fragile, TSTL and warrior to the bone. Sure, she has her insecurity because she's know that she's not pretty enough (did we all?) and also older than Ward. But Ward never care about that, he want Tisala and will never give up for them.
I agree with some reviewer that Dragon Blood is darker than Dragon Bones, even the mystery is not much like the predecessor. I cringe when read about Ward's imprisonment because King Jakoven deemed he not unsuitable to rule Hurog. What happen to Ward (and also Tisala at first), is awful, even Briggs didn't describe it graphically (which make me grateful). But the effect still there and Briggs didn't try to smooth it, because what Ward endure is what make Ward as he is. King Jakoven indeed is icky, and I don't know why Garranon can endure his time as King's lover for 20 years. With the story flows, the reason why Jakoven try to use a dangerous artifact to make havoc is quite sad. Briggs challenge her characters, especially Garranon, about if his feeling to his lover is merely hatred, or there's some love left in his heart for the mad King.
While the mystery is not much (like I said before), the writing go smoothly. I'm glad that I read Blood after Bones in no time, because my memory of Hurog's world building is still fresh. I still remember the politic of the five Kingdoms, remember the clans, nationality and also the religious system. I think that's the opportunity to read a duology back to back. You don't need to wait a long time to read the next in series.
Consider to read Hurog's duology if you want to read a fantasy that is light but will affect you in so many ways.
January 4, 2022
https://www.my-bo0ks.over-blog.com/20...
La semaine dernière, je découvrais le premier tome de la duologie Hurog de Patricia Briggs. Un premier tome qui souffrait de quelques problèmes mais qui pouvait encore surprendre. Et ça a été le cas. Ce second tome est meilleur que le premier et ce, pour plusieurs raisons.
Attention, il s'agit du second tome, certains spoilers sont donc impossible à éviter.
Stolon, notre personnage principal se retrouve aux mains de l'ennemi et autant dire que sa vie là-bas est loin d'être de tout repos. Torturé de toutes les façons possibles il n'est absolument pas épargné. On reconnait aisément la patte de l'autrice, qui n'hésite pas à malmener un peu ses personnages principaux. Du coup, les passages de son point de vue sont assez durs et laissent le lecteur assez impuissant. Malgré tout, il me manque toujours un truc pour m'attacher à lui....
Fort heureusement, pour contre balancer cette noirceur, nous avons le point de vue de Tisala. Je l'appréciais déjà beaucoup dans le premier tome, mais c'est encore plus le cas avec ce second tome d'Hurog. Il faut dire que cette femme au tempérament bien trempée est bien loin du cliché en fantasy. Forte, courageuse et pas là juste pour faire joli, elle n'hésite pas à prendre les armes et à faire fermer le clapet des autres. Avoir son point de vue est donc à la fois une mine d'information et apporte vraiment un plus à l'histoire : l'empathie pour un personnage. Car c'est un peu ce dont manque Stolon... La romance entre nos deux personnages prend un peu plus de place (et encore, cela reste très très léger), mais je la trouve parfaite et absolument pas dénuée de sens. Au contraire, elle s'inscrit parfaitement dans l'évolution de l'histoire et de ses personnages. Enfin, j'ai apprécié retrouver les personnages secondaires tels que Oreg, Ciarra, Tosten et en apprendre plus sur d'autres.
Niveau intrigue, ce tome n'a pas de gros problème de rythme, comme je le reprochais au premier. Dans l'ensemble, les chapitres s'enchainent et les pages défilent rapidement. Les intrigues politiques et les complots entre les seigneurs sont assez intrigants et donne envie d'en savoir plus. La présence des dragons tant promis est un vrai plus et on a envie de crier : enfin ! D'ailleurs, je ne suis pas déçue de cet aspect de l'histoire. Je trouve que l'autrice propose vraiment quelque chose d'intéressant et travaillé qui aurait sans doute gagner à être plus étoffé.
En conclusion, ce second tome d'Hurog est meilleur que le premier. Il n'est pas parfait, mais à la mérite de relever le niveau, tout en proposant une conclusion satisfaisante de l'histoire. C'est dommage que le héros, Stolon n'est pas plus approfondi. On a du mal à s'attacher à lui alors que l'autrice nous propose des personnages secondaires qui ne manquent pas d'intérêt (Tisala et Oreg notamment). Le suspens est plutôt bien mené et l'histoire prometteuse. Pas les meilleurs romans de l'autrice mais j'ai tout de même passé un bon moment de lecture.
La semaine dernière, je découvrais le premier tome de la duologie Hurog de Patricia Briggs. Un premier tome qui souffrait de quelques problèmes mais qui pouvait encore surprendre. Et ça a été le cas. Ce second tome est meilleur que le premier et ce, pour plusieurs raisons.
Attention, il s'agit du second tome, certains spoilers sont donc impossible à éviter.
Stolon, notre personnage principal se retrouve aux mains de l'ennemi et autant dire que sa vie là-bas est loin d'être de tout repos. Torturé de toutes les façons possibles il n'est absolument pas épargné. On reconnait aisément la patte de l'autrice, qui n'hésite pas à malmener un peu ses personnages principaux. Du coup, les passages de son point de vue sont assez durs et laissent le lecteur assez impuissant. Malgré tout, il me manque toujours un truc pour m'attacher à lui....
Fort heureusement, pour contre balancer cette noirceur, nous avons le point de vue de Tisala. Je l'appréciais déjà beaucoup dans le premier tome, mais c'est encore plus le cas avec ce second tome d'Hurog. Il faut dire que cette femme au tempérament bien trempée est bien loin du cliché en fantasy. Forte, courageuse et pas là juste pour faire joli, elle n'hésite pas à prendre les armes et à faire fermer le clapet des autres. Avoir son point de vue est donc à la fois une mine d'information et apporte vraiment un plus à l'histoire : l'empathie pour un personnage. Car c'est un peu ce dont manque Stolon... La romance entre nos deux personnages prend un peu plus de place (et encore, cela reste très très léger), mais je la trouve parfaite et absolument pas dénuée de sens. Au contraire, elle s'inscrit parfaitement dans l'évolution de l'histoire et de ses personnages. Enfin, j'ai apprécié retrouver les personnages secondaires tels que Oreg, Ciarra, Tosten et en apprendre plus sur d'autres.
Niveau intrigue, ce tome n'a pas de gros problème de rythme, comme je le reprochais au premier. Dans l'ensemble, les chapitres s'enchainent et les pages défilent rapidement. Les intrigues politiques et les complots entre les seigneurs sont assez intrigants et donne envie d'en savoir plus. La présence des dragons tant promis est un vrai plus et on a envie de crier : enfin ! D'ailleurs, je ne suis pas déçue de cet aspect de l'histoire. Je trouve que l'autrice propose vraiment quelque chose d'intéressant et travaillé qui aurait sans doute gagner à être plus étoffé.
En conclusion, ce second tome d'Hurog est meilleur que le premier. Il n'est pas parfait, mais à la mérite de relever le niveau, tout en proposant une conclusion satisfaisante de l'histoire. C'est dommage que le héros, Stolon n'est pas plus approfondi. On a du mal à s'attacher à lui alors que l'autrice nous propose des personnages secondaires qui ne manquent pas d'intérêt (Tisala et Oreg notamment). Le suspens est plutôt bien mené et l'histoire prometteuse. Pas les meilleurs romans de l'autrice mais j'ai tout de même passé un bon moment de lecture.
July 24, 2013
My thoughts:
Ok so I started this one right after having finished book 1 and it takes place 4 years after the events in book 1. The book was not as good, but then all the things that were new and shiny then, were not new and shiny here anymore. But hey it was still a good book that I read in a day.
Ward is rebuilding Hurog and is staying away from the wicked king Jakoven. But the king is the baddie in this one so he comes after Ward. Civil war is close to breaking out and things are not good...*music of doom*
Ward is a true hero, and then I mean hero as in the word hero. If someone is on trouble he will help them. He is the best Lord there can be. Well after they got over the Ward is not simpleton thing ;)
People are finding their way in this book. The land around Hurog is free from the curse and I kept waiting for Jakoven to get thrown down. An icky king. Icky is too sweet a word but I do not wanna give away any spoilers.
Conclusion:
And now I want the rest of Brigg's fantasy books. I am slowly going through them all. Only 3 more now.
Ok so I started this one right after having finished book 1 and it takes place 4 years after the events in book 1. The book was not as good, but then all the things that were new and shiny then, were not new and shiny here anymore. But hey it was still a good book that I read in a day.
Ward is rebuilding Hurog and is staying away from the wicked king Jakoven. But the king is the baddie in this one so he comes after Ward. Civil war is close to breaking out and things are not good...*music of doom*
Ward is a true hero, and then I mean hero as in the word hero. If someone is on trouble he will help them. He is the best Lord there can be. Well after they got over the Ward is not simpleton thing ;)
People are finding their way in this book. The land around Hurog is free from the curse and I kept waiting for Jakoven to get thrown down. An icky king. Icky is too sweet a word but I do not wanna give away any spoilers.
Conclusion:
And now I want the rest of Brigg's fantasy books. I am slowly going through them all. Only 3 more now.
February 12, 2017
Dragon Blood is the sequel to Dragon bones. I really enjoyed this book and I thought it was one those rare times when the sequel is even better than the first book. There is more action in this book and some added romance that was just the right amount, not too much, and I liked Tisala, the love interest. She was a very strong capable character. I also loved Oreg in this book. Over all this was a nice fantasy duology. Not my favorite, but I'm glad I read it.
October 10, 2016
Short and sweet endorsement: I finished this book in a day because I just couldn't put it down for long. Didn't do great for my plans for studying but well worth it!
July 23, 2020
Too unpleasant. Torture, rape,sodomy, child molestation, murder....ick. The ending was abrupt, with no happy wrap up scene including dwarves, the big cat beast, etc.
January 13, 2024
10 stars!!!!! Man, this is one of the most entertaining books I've read in a while and I have read some good ones. Patricia Briggs has majorly outdone herself with this amazing story of dragons, wizards, and magic. I didn't even mind the little bit of romance that was included. What a great read!
January 6, 2023
This was a fantastic sequel, so much happened, loved seeing more of these characters! I loved reading it so much!
December 1, 2019
I have read this before. So I didn’t think I’d get as insanely hooked… I read the whole book in one day. While I was trying to write a paper. Probably not the best book to sink my literary teeth into if I’m being honest with myself…
Although Dragon Bones would have been fine as a standalone, I’m really glad that Briggs decided to revisit this world. There is just something about Ward and Hurog that makes it difficult to walk away. Plus, interestingly, it is the only one of her series thus far that features a male lead. Yes, there is still a strong, independent woman in this story. But it’s written from Ward’s POV and more so about him. Tisala is his love interest.
Dragon Blood is a fantastic end to this duology. Not only do you feel like Ward and Tisala get to live happily ever after. Their country and peoples’ are finally safe from a tyrannical king and an ancient artefact that could kill them all is also destroyed. A very good, easy happy ending that still lets you know that everyone continues to live and fight their battles – after all, dragons, bandits and magic are still heavy in the air.
If I was asked to describe in one sentence why I love this story so much… I wouldn’t be able to answer the question. As with all of Patricia Briggs’ books, there is something about the writing, the character building and the battles that Ward overcomes that make it impossible not to love the tale. Add in a heavy dose of dragons and medieval sword fight… I’m kind of sad that I read through it so quickly… again. I read this in one day last time too…
Although Dragon Bones would have been fine as a standalone, I’m really glad that Briggs decided to revisit this world. There is just something about Ward and Hurog that makes it difficult to walk away. Plus, interestingly, it is the only one of her series thus far that features a male lead. Yes, there is still a strong, independent woman in this story. But it’s written from Ward’s POV and more so about him. Tisala is his love interest.
Dragon Blood is a fantastic end to this duology. Not only do you feel like Ward and Tisala get to live happily ever after. Their country and peoples’ are finally safe from a tyrannical king and an ancient artefact that could kill them all is also destroyed. A very good, easy happy ending that still lets you know that everyone continues to live and fight their battles – after all, dragons, bandits and magic are still heavy in the air.
If I was asked to describe in one sentence why I love this story so much… I wouldn’t be able to answer the question. As with all of Patricia Briggs’ books, there is something about the writing, the character building and the battles that Ward overcomes that make it impossible not to love the tale. Add in a heavy dose of dragons and medieval sword fight… I’m kind of sad that I read through it so quickly… again. I read this in one day last time too…
June 24, 2019
Pretty decent setup for the conflicts in the story with the romance, the antagonists and the big bad magic but the ending was shockingly abrupt and unsatisfying. The romantic subplot was basically resolved by them just deciding to be a couple with no particular impetus despite the entirety of the book up to that point dedicated to setting up some non-existent barrier. The other two aspects were even worse though- for all the setup the antagonists get as intelligent and powerful enemies, they get taken out almost by accident without ever demonstrating their supposed powers; meanwhile, the ancient evil artifact just gets taken care of by a deus ex machina "twist" that was never hinted at and no one understands even after the fact.
There were also quite a few world building details that felt kind of unnecessary. Maybe they are meant to be building up to something in future books but they have no place in this one.
The writing style is serviceable- it didn't do much to truly immerse me in this weird fantastical world but it didn't ever take me out of the story either. It certainly wouldn't have been an issue if the ending was more satisfying.
There were also quite a few world building details that felt kind of unnecessary. Maybe they are meant to be building up to something in future books but they have no place in this one.
The writing style is serviceable- it didn't do much to truly immerse me in this weird fantastical world but it didn't ever take me out of the story either. It certainly wouldn't have been an issue if the ending was more satisfying.
January 29, 2011
Well, all my hoping since the Dragon Bones went unanswered, because this novel pretty much follows the same line that goes between the paranormal and the fantasy genre.
I don't quite like it, to be exact. Briggs was very vague in this novel, the details are from fantasy and the flow and the plot from a paranormal genre, and it is not well done. Maybe the first novel was a novelty, so I liked it better, but she should have decided whether to go toward the one or the other, because the mix is not something that turned out pretty good. I also believe that, even tough Briggs has a potential as a paranormal author, fantasy would be her bling, and if she only put a little effort in it, she would be a great fantasy writer.
What is a plus here is that homosexuality is a free preference. It is not encouraged, but it is also not ostracized, as it is in today's society, and I like it. I don't have anything against it, and I like how Briggs puts this world to look upon it.
I don't quite like it, to be exact. Briggs was very vague in this novel, the details are from fantasy and the flow and the plot from a paranormal genre, and it is not well done. Maybe the first novel was a novelty, so I liked it better, but she should have decided whether to go toward the one or the other, because the mix is not something that turned out pretty good. I also believe that, even tough Briggs has a potential as a paranormal author, fantasy would be her bling, and if she only put a little effort in it, she would be a great fantasy writer.
What is a plus here is that homosexuality is a free preference. It is not encouraged, but it is also not ostracized, as it is in today's society, and I like it. I don't have anything against it, and I like how Briggs puts this world to look upon it.
October 10, 2011
With this second installment of the Hurog series we follow Ward as he is caught by the snare that we thought he escaped in the 1st book. Ward is able to escape seemingly impossible situations because he is surrounded by loyal friends and mystical creatures that know of his reputation.
This book had a lot of talk/act of homosexuality(not explicit), which is not my cup of tea.(as well as pedophile acts not described but referenced) We are pulled into torture sessions and murder, deceit and love. How can a story have all of this in one book? This was an action packed sprint and then it was just over. I was disappointed with the abrupt ending and felt cheated after all the horrible evil done. This is not one of Briggs books I would read again or recommend to anyone unless they were already a Patricia Briggs follower.
This book had a lot of talk/act of homosexuality(not explicit), which is not my cup of tea.(as well as pedophile acts not described but referenced) We are pulled into torture sessions and murder, deceit and love. How can a story have all of this in one book? This was an action packed sprint and then it was just over. I was disappointed with the abrupt ending and felt cheated after all the horrible evil done. This is not one of Briggs books I would read again or recommend to anyone unless they were already a Patricia Briggs follower.
March 9, 2011
This book was a wonderful exercise in character development. I liked the characters in the first novel, then fell completely in love with them by the end of this one. I am saddened that there are not more books in this series.
Another reviewer said that this was an epic fantasy written, then condensed like an excellent sauce. I agree, but the journey is half the fun for me. Everything in this book happened so fast that I never felt that I got to enjoy the ride. It felt to me like I was just starting to feel the excitement and tension, then the book ended. Everything was tied up in the end, but it just happened too fast...
I'd go with 3.5 if I could. I loved it, but was disappointed at the same time.
Another reviewer said that this was an epic fantasy written, then condensed like an excellent sauce. I agree, but the journey is half the fun for me. Everything in this book happened so fast that I never felt that I got to enjoy the ride. It felt to me like I was just starting to feel the excitement and tension, then the book ended. Everything was tied up in the end, but it just happened too fast...
I'd go with 3.5 if I could. I loved it, but was disappointed at the same time.
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