3.5 stars. Silas Bershad is an exile, condemned by his king to the life of an itinerant dragon-slayer. Marked with the blue bars of his trade on his cheek, and with his arm covered in tattoos recording the beasts he has killed, he is an object of fascination and fable to those he meets. Most dragon-slayers don't last long, but Bershad - known popularly as the Flawless - has outlived sixty-five dragons and has no plans to stop there. The alternative is death on the king's command and Bershad doesn't fancy giving him the satisfaction. But when he's summoned to the capital, Floodhaven, Bershad must confront the life he gave up fourteen years ago and decide whether his hatred for King Hertzog will stand in the way of accepting a new mission beyond the kingdom's borders. If he succeeds, he will win his liberty and regain his noble status. And besides, there's more at stake than simple politics. While this first instalment in Naslund's fantasy series is focused on setting out the pieces - and ends rather abruptly - it does offer rich and intricate scene-setting, with an unusual emphasis on the ecosystems of this fantasy world.

Bershad's return to Floodhaven offers him the chance for revenge - vengeance, at last, against the king who tricked him into treason and then condemned him to an unjust exile. Hertzog Malgrave might now be offering him freedom as the reward for the new mission, but Bershad has bitter experience of the king's trustworthiness ('every offer from King Hertzog came with strings, some of which could be tied around your throat and pulled'). It would be so, so easy to draw a sword and end this wretched story there and then. But wisdom prevails: wisdom, and the influence of the princess Ashlyn, who once meant a great deal to Bershad and who remains far more thoughtful and pragmatic than her father Hertzog. Bershad realises that his public mission - to rescue Ashlyn's younger sister Kira, recently kidnapped by an envoy from the enemy kingdom of Balaria - is only part of the story. He also has another, far more deadly task, one which has a significance that Bershad can't yet fully understand. But Ashlyn is behind it - bright, clever, subtle Ashlyn, who has spent her life studying dragons (a passion which Bershad once shared, before he was condemned to spend his life killing them instead) - and Bershad realises that he still wants to see what might come of a future shaped by Ashlyn's mind.

Some distance from Floodhaven, in a region of jungles and rainforests, the apprentice alchemist Jolan finds himself unexpectedly homeless. Without a master or a roof over his head, Jolan decides instead to head for the dragon warrens he's always heard about, hoping to find a rich source of ingredients for his work, and to satisfy his curiosity about dragons in general. On his way, he falls into company with a stranger, a man named Garret, who has a dragon's tooth lodged in his arm and a nasty habit of being around when trouble strikes. As the capital readies for war, and the provincial lords are called to raise their levies, Jolan finds himself in a region fraught with rivalries, where a series of unexpected deaths threaten to throw the country into instability. Politics are on the brink of collapse, but Jolan - like few other people, one of them Ashlyn - understands that this might not be the main threat to their country of Almira. In this modest backwater country, people are already beginning to suffer from strange plagues and sickness, which signal something far more dangerous: the balance of nature being knocked out of line.

I don't remember reading any other fantasy which places so much weight on the importance of nature. Naslund chooses two prominent characters, a trainee alchemist and a scholarly princess, who are deeply engaged in understanding the balance of the natural world, and who can see the problems that will arise if certain ambitions - such as the wholesale destruction of dragons - are indulged. He also gives his hero a striking regenerative power which may or may not be connected to the properties of healing moss, which is itself affected by where it grows. On several occasions he spends time explaining the symbiotic balance of his ecosystems and drawing attention to the way that hunting, dragon-slaying and all other manner of standard fantasy activities threaten the environment. It's an unexpectedly green message to set alongside the more conventional quest narrative that sets Bershad on the path to adventure and danger in the lands controlled by the Balarian Empire. I enjoyed it, because it gave a sense of how things actually work in this world - I suppose it gave me the same sense of satisfaction that I get from reading K.J. Parker's novels about supply lines and engineering.

And it also shows that Naslund has really thought hard about creating a world that has an intrinsic unity: dragons aren't just here because it's a fantasy and 'we should have dragons'; they're here because they're creatures that have evolved to occupy a particular place in the chain of predators and prey, and which threaten to disrupt the system if they're culled. This sits more widely against a culture, especially in remoter parts, which has an almost shamanic relationship with animals and natural forces. People from all classes make mud totems to gain the favour of the gods, while soldiers wear wooden masks crafted in the shape of their lord's chosen animal. This kind of anthropological detail gives Naslund's kingdom of Almira a very different feel from standard fantasies. The semi-tropical climate and the presence of rainforests and jaguars suggest that we're somewhere more like Central America than Western Europe (the usual inspiration for fantasy worlds). All in all, it makes for excitingly original world-building.

There are some weaknesses: once the book gets going, it seems to meander along for a while and then work up speed, only to end very abruptly. I found it odd that Jolan was worked up as a fairly significant character, but that he didn't have much to do afterwards except act as a kind of narrator for Garret's actions. And Bershad never quite escaped the cliche of 'noble yet taciturn man brutalised through no fault of his own' - he frequently reminded me of Geralt of Rivia, but without the sense of humour. That doesn't mean I'm not interested in finding out what happens to him. I like tormented noble heroes, and although Bershad isn't up there with the best of them, he fits the theme. (I found the signalling of 'goodies' and 'baddies' to be somewhat heavy-handed, considering the book's environmental interests: Bershad's noble family traditionally revered the creatures of the jungle which they ruled; the villains, equally significantly, parade around in flayed jaguar cloaks.) Perhaps unsurprisingly, the character I found most satisfying was Ashlyn: a fantasy princess who spends most of her time engaged in scientific experiments, who is politically astute, and who has a convincingly complex relationship with her difficult father.

Now, something needs to be said here. I've just (after writing the rest of this review) discovered that the galley I was sent only contains the first half of the book. This wasn't made clear at any point, so obviously I've judged the book as if what I've read was a complete novel. No doubt this explains the abrupt ending and why the plot felt weirdly unbalanced. I feel tricked by this, especially as lots of good stuff (and an introduction to a whole other civilisation) seems to happen in the second half. But at present, having devoted a lot of time to this in good faith in order to produce a review, I don't really feel like buying the whole book at full price just to read the rest. Maybe those of you who've been fortunate enough to read the whole thing can convince me otherwise...

The review will be published on my blog on 12 April 2020 at the following link:
https://theidlewoman.net/2020/04/12/blood-of-an-exile-brian-naslund

Really good book! The hero is an man who has basically paid for his father's transgressions by losing his title and his previous life. He was made an outcast, and for the last 14 years has basically lived the life of a vagabond. He is offered the opportunity to have his life back if he rescues the kidnapped princess. Bershad also has some interesting physical changes going on that are not really addressed throughout the entire book which is frustrating. Ashlyn is the other major character, a queen-in-waiting who convinces Bershad to rescue her sister, in addition to assassinating the person who kidnapped her. We don't learn too much about Ashlyn other than she loves Bershad, her sister, and dragons, though not necessarily in that order. She also has a weird dragon
string (?) around her wrist that has immense power she doesn't quite understand.
I thought the strength of this book was in its supporting characters Rowan, Vera, Felgor and even the donkey. The dialogue between them as well as the developing relationships, made the book interesting. Otherwise it was bogged down in wardens, lords, and was generally messy.

My Rating : 4

~Thank you Netgalley and Tor Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. ~

This was such an unexpected read that I finished in a single sitting!! Give me books with dragons and dragon slayers, I will read it any day 😂 Apart from that, it has a lot of depth to the plot as well as the characters and there is a lot of political discussion along with heartbreaks and plot twists, it just made my day!!
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Detailed review & links coming soon !

I was only given a preview of this book, but what I did read has left me thoroughly intrigued and keen to know what happens next. I consequently preordered the book and have been waiting impatiently for it to arrive. The characters, including the dragons, are well fleshed out and I predominately enjoy books like this - that are character driven.

I look forward to completing the book, and writing full reviews on my goodreads and Instagram accounts.

I'm sure this is a book that will appeal to many. It's a violent tale of a man, his donkey, his old friend, an alchemist, a widow, his long lost love, and his dragon-slaying sword. There is a suicidal mission, a twist to the plot, difficulty reaching their final destination, and nothing was accomplished in the end.

For me, the biggest drawback was the dialogue. There were also too many things about the storyline, the characters and the ultimate endgame that reminded me of the styles of other authors. I don't believe it was done on purpose, just from having been influenced throughout his life by the fantasies he's read, and not quite able to create his own with his just his imagination alone. I think given time he may find his own voice and it just possibly may be a strong one.

First he needs to rid himself of the idea that a male protagonist who is tough and deadly needs also to be crass. The excessive use of foul language was unnecessary and put me off a bit. This was definitely a "male" slanted novel. That being said, there are many this will appeal to, so my opinion will simply be my opinion, not meant to be cruel but to be instructive. Take more time with the next one, Brian. You have the drive. Take the time to develop it.

I won't be reading the next in this series, but I may look Brian up again when his next series comes out to see if he has improved, as I believe he will. That this wasn't a novel for me doesn't mean it won't be for others.

I received this book as an ARC with the agreement that I would post an honest, unbiased review.

I really enjoyed this book. Is the story original? No. It’s similar to other quest fantasy novels out there. What makes this stand out is character development and use of science. Usually, a fantasy story is all about magic, and this one has that. But I love the idea that dragons are an integral part of this worlds eco-system on top of having magical effects on the environment and other animals where they live. It’s not just worry of dying magic, it’s worry about the slow destruction of a planet. It’s an alternate version of global warming, which is a really cool twist.

Bershad’s persona is that of a womanizing drunk and hero of mythological proportions. He feeds into that to keep his secrets safe, but we learn quickly that’s not who he is at all. He doesn’t need to learn how to be a good person, he always has been, but he has been forced to live a life he isn’t proud of. His story isn’t about redemption, which is common, and it’s not about revenge. It’s about him wanting to return to a peaceful life. Although we the readers can see his path won’t take him to the boring existence he currently craves.

I also like that the characters are living their life. Yes, lovers and families are apart, but there is no virginal pining. People get on with it. I’m sure it will lead to jealousy and complications, but those feelings will be rooted in realism not forced drama. I really liked all the characters, and although we didn’t get to see much of the villains their machinations are what drive this story. I can’t wait to see their personalities and motives. I can’t wait for the next book. I am hooked on this series.

Dragons. Magic. War.

Blood of an Exile has all the desirable contents that I love in an epic fantasy novel. Dragons aren't romantic nor loveable pets. They are just dragons. A part of nature, but an important part of nature (as we learn with this novel). The world building in this novel is insanely good. I loved the storyline and how easily the author's voice flows.

I received a copy of Blood of an Exile from NetGalley. Although the copy said "excerpt" the length appeared to be the full book. I can't imagine a book coming to an abrupt end as my copy did. I wish the author/publisher wouldn't do this and expect a full review on NetGalley.

Now I wait for a complete copy of this novel, because it's really a good book!

I was provided with a complimentary excerpt of this book, so I could give an honest review.

Blood of an Exile – Preview by Brian Naslund
Dragons of Terra #1

Being given a preview of book one in a new series that had to do with dragons seemed a good choice for reading. I just wish that it had been the entire book since there is a lot more story to be told than what I read in the first 200 or so pages. I can see this as a multi-book series that will deal with dragons, vampires and a variety of other beings before it ends.

Bershad seems to be the main character in the book. He had a run-in with the king and was demoted from lord to dragon killer exile and sent out to kill dragons. With nearly seventy killed he has mixed feelings as it seems he admires the lizard-beasts he has been sent to kill. In the past he had a lover who will become queen and that queen has a part in the story, too. There is his faithful man and donkey that stand by his side and a troop of others that will follow him on the quest-like journey he has been sent on to recover a kidnapped sister of the soon-to-be queen. Mention of an assassin, apprentice alchemist-healer and Vera are just the tip of the iceberg in this story that has a bit of the feel of Game of Thrones but also of other fantasy authors I have read.

I have a soft spot for dragons so am not sure I will follow up and read the rest of this book or the series but do believe this will appeal to those who are into this sort of story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan – Tor/Forge for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

The preview was so good I've already pre-ordered the book! Can't wait to see what happens next! I don't think I'll ever read another preview excerpt again. I hate being left hanging.

Bershad is the most successful dragon slayer in history, but his luck has changed. Caught while attempting to assassinate a noble, Bershad is sentenced to death - or his he?? If he agrees to kill a king, he will be free. He also finds that he has the power to save the innocent and become a real hero.

This sneak peek was great and I can’t wait to read the whole story. I will definitely be looking for interest in this one, so we can add it to the collection. I do not usually like, read, or review preview excerpts, but this one was an exception because I was intrigued by the premise.

Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan for the excerpt.

It's coming out soon so I reqested for this excerpt wanting to know what it is about. Basing on description it was everything I love about fantasy novels wchich is band of people on their adventure. I think that this preview was really interesting and I'm looking forward to buy the entire novel.

Blood of an Exile appears to have all the ingredients of an epic fantasy. The main character, Bershad is a reknowned dragonslayer. Dragonslayers are those who have been sentenced to that life as a punishment for certain crimes. It is a life sentence where they must continue to perform this duty until they either die or are killed. There are hints that events leading up to Bershad's criminal sentencing are confused and maybe even intentionally misleading. I suspect more will be revealed as the book progresses.

This preview provides a mere taste of what's to come with the release of the complete book on August 6th. It was brilliantly done because it was just enough of the book to "hook" the reader on the storyline and leave them wanting the rest. I'm looking forward to seeing how things continue to develop and finding out what the real story is behind Bershad.

Tor books is one of my favorite imprints. They never let me down, and Blood of and Exile is another win for me. Eagerly awaiting August so I can keep reading.

I don't know why I do this to myself - an EXCERPT!!! Really, really enjoyed this book and totally bummed that I can't finish it. If the story continues as it has this will be a fabulous book! I know somepeople don't like stories that change POV but this is well done.

This preview of Blood of an Exile gives us a bite sized look at what will be an epic fantasy. Based on this alone I'd recommend picking up Blood of an Exile once it releases.

Very much looking forward to continuing the story in the full-length novel. Thank you so much for the preview!

Even though this was just an excerpt, it was great. I am really excited to read the rest when it is released.

This book sounds interesting and has an eye catching cover. I have tried multiple times to download the excerpt and have it sent to my kindle, but I can't get it to work for some reason. I do look forward to checking this book out once it becomes available!

The writing in this book is good, really good. What I loved most is that, although the story is told from the point of view of several characters, the timeline is linear. Instead of having flashbacks or jumps in time, more and more is disclosed about the characters as you read. It feels organic, like the way you would really get to know someone over time.
The best part of the book is the dragons. The mythology around them feels layered, nuanced. Some people love the dangerous creatures. Most fear them, but you can not argue that everyone’s lives are deeply effected by the presence of the beasts.

Blood of an Exile
by Brian Naslund
Macmillan-Tor/Forge
Tor Books
Sci Fi & Fantasy

Curious about the description, I picked this novel up, dreading overblown language and macho posturing. But this had none of that.

It begins with a fine description from the viewpoint of an Almiran apprentice apothecary, Jolan, who lives in a village, but once he encounters the hungover "Flawless Berhad" the narrative kicks off with a bang--not just action but character. Bershad is initially revealed as the lovechild of Kevin Hearne's Atticus O'Sullivan and Charles Bukowski. The excitement in a Bukowski character is his lack of inhibitions--probably fueled by alcohol (not that alcohol is by itself a good thing, but we readers are curious about those socially uninhibited if we are not).

Jolan meets Bershad:

"Is the dragonslayer in here?" Jolan asked. The bartender jerked his head to the left.... There was a man there, passed out cold with his head and hands flat on the table....
"Him," the bartender responded. "Was at it most of the night. Passed out an hour ago...."
Jolan reached out to shake the man awake, but the dragonslayer spoke before Jolan's hand reached his shoulder.
"What time is it?" he asked, not moving anything except his lips.... In no way did his dark, rough features bring to mind the handsome, perfect dragonslayer of the poem and songs and stories.
"Are you the the Flawless Bershad?" Jolan asked.
"I am the Late and Hungover Bershad," he growled.

There's not only the adventure plot but the comic attention to character that enthralls the reader in this opening. It was so stunning and I was eager to pronounce the writer as soon to be beloved, but the attention to character at this higher level slows to a more everyday fantasy novel, albeit with plenty of intrigue.

Bershad battles the dragon and sustains injuries that might have killed others. But he survives and the king who had exiled him, King Hertzog, summons him. He want Bershad to rescue his kidnapped daughter Kira and assassinate the Balarian emperor. They have long been at war with their neighbor.

While Bershad is unbeloved in his former kingdom, the king's other daughter, Ashlyn, has a fancy for him and would like to see him restored once he carries out this mission. When Hertzog dies, Ashlyn becomes the defacto queen, but ruling won't be easy. Factions within Almira are being fanned to drive it into civil war. Meanwhile, a Balarian assassin roams the Almira countyside, murdering noblemen, whose motives we await to be revealed.

I like what I've read although I did have to reread since I felt a little mislead about the type of novel we were given. On the other hand, novelists like J K Rowling also worked hard on a novel opening. Harry Potter also began with character--albeit Dickensian, not Bukowskian--which she later abandoned for plot.

Still many readers will stick around for the thick-layered intrigue, part of which you can sense above.

You can check out a free sample of this Tor novel here and see if this is a novel for you.

The novel will be released August 6, 2019 (preorder here).