Dragon Assassin Volume 1- Review

Intro

When I first saw the title, I thought this story would be lame. An Assassin that uses a dragon? Really? I thought this would be a cheesy little fantasy story about badass assassins who ride dragons cause its cool. Well, I got something different, honestly better than I would have ever given that name credit for. It's engaging and fun and makes me want to read more of the volumes.

Writing

What I do like about the world is how much Arthur Slade made the art of assassination like a school. Carman and her classmates go to poison classes, learn to the garrotte people in the most efficient way, etc. It feels darkly humorous in a way that I think is intentional. It helps the book's world stand out a little amidst the rest of the generic world-building and uninspired landscapes. I do commend Slade's strong character voice and dry caustic wit. Brax (the dragon) is a snarky proud beast that never fails to offer something witty. He provided some good laughs in a story that could have quickly fallen into the angst that plagues the YA genre. Unfortunately, because it's the first in the series, the report cannot help but end on a cliffhanger and doesn't resolve all the plot points set out. But it doesn't need to; the assassination climax is suitably tense and exciting, with Arthur Slade crafting a fun heist-like situation (but with more stabbing).

I did enjoy the relationship between Carman and her brother Crowin, the rivalry and bitterness between them after the first act is very well done. One of the easiest ways of creating great drama is through the conflict between family members. The ending of the battle goes to places that are both satisfying and set up for possible drama in the future.

Conclusion

Dragon Assassin Volume 1 is a fun and compelling read that I would highly recommend for those who want to read something fun. It's no Tolkien, but it doesn't have to be, sometimes, you can have fun with something good. Dragon Assassin Volume 1 is a good, fun time.

Acknowledgments

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