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Metaframe War #3
The Dragon's Den
A Thrilling Dark Fantasy Action Adventure
Hunters and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion.
The chase is on. Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion have abducted Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth. Anton and the Mirovar force team are the only ones in a position to act. They know Ramin is bait, but have to rescue him before he's forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies.
Will Anton and his friends in the Mirovar force team rescue Ramin Kain, or will Chloe Armitage discover the secrets of the Order of Thoth, destroy the Mirovar force team, and enslave Anton to her will?
Hunters and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion.
The chase is on. Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion have abducted Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth. Anton and the Mirovar force team are the only ones in a position to act. They know Ramin is bait, but have to rescue him before he's forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies.
Will Anton and his friends in the Mirovar force team rescue Ramin Kain, or will Chloe Armitage discover the secrets of the Order of Thoth, destroy the Mirovar force team, and enslave Anton to her will?
214 pages, Paperback
First published January 31, 2018
9 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Graeme Rodaughan
17 books405 followersI have one rule: Deliver an immersive reading experience that will transport you from the everyday world into a realm of fantastic imagination - and leave you there until you're forced to come up for air...
I'm in love with character driven high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it.
P.s. I love villains that matter and I loathe poorly drawn villains. I also hate gloat speeches, deus ex machinas, and evil conflated with madness...
If I DNF a book, I normally do not rate it - unless there is an egregious issue with the story. My review ratings are as follows.
5 stars: A book I love enough that I'd happily read it again. It may have some issues, but they weren't enough to disturb my enjoyment.
4 stars: Enjoyed it, but may never read it again.
3 stars: Just made it through, probably considered DNF'ing it more than once.
2 stars: A rare rating. I read this book, it has some very serious flaws and I recommend not reading it.
1 star: Hated this book. This book is garbage and would look good in a dystopian dumpster fire.
Of special note, for authors I know - If I read your book, I will do so silently and in private. If I have something good to say about it, I will add it to my shelves and publish a rating/review. Otherwise, I will remain silent. Also, I won't read your book just because you read one of mine and liked it. I.e. I don't do reciprocal reviews. They create a sense of obligation (a conflict of interest) that interferes with honest and authentic reviews. So, please do not ask me for a reciprocal review.
I'm in love with character driven high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it.
P.s. I love villains that matter and I loathe poorly drawn villains. I also hate gloat speeches, deus ex machinas, and evil conflated with madness...
If I DNF a book, I normally do not rate it - unless there is an egregious issue with the story. My review ratings are as follows.
5 stars: A book I love enough that I'd happily read it again. It may have some issues, but they weren't enough to disturb my enjoyment.
4 stars: Enjoyed it, but may never read it again.
3 stars: Just made it through, probably considered DNF'ing it more than once.
2 stars: A rare rating. I read this book, it has some very serious flaws and I recommend not reading it.
1 star: Hated this book. This book is garbage and would look good in a dystopian dumpster fire.
Of special note, for authors I know - If I read your book, I will do so silently and in private. If I have something good to say about it, I will add it to my shelves and publish a rating/review. Otherwise, I will remain silent. Also, I won't read your book just because you read one of mine and liked it. I.e. I don't do reciprocal reviews. They create a sense of obligation (a conflict of interest) that interferes with honest and authentic reviews. So, please do not ask me for a reciprocal review.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 20, 2025
Movie Cinema Action abounds within this book! Grab your popcorn and your soda as you are going to need it while reading this book!!
My third time around for this book!
The first two books in the series have action, but nothing like this book. In this book you are dodging the bullets as they zip by you,
along with marital arts sword fighting techniques,
rockets are launching,
and as the swords are clashing against each other, you not only hear them, you can feel each thrust of the sword. Welcome to Dragon's Den, the third book in the Metaframe War.
There is a war going on between the Vampire Dominion, the Red Empire and the Order of Thoth. What really kicks the war off is when the vampires had abducted Ramon Kain from the previous book, A Traitor's War. The vampires are going to do everything in their power to make him talk no matter what.
While the vampires are trying to get him to spill his secrets, the Mirovar Force team are hot on their heels as they try to rescue Ramon Kain before he decides to tell all. As the Mirovar Force team pursues the vampires, they encounter troops from Shadowstone, and the battle begins.
There are lots of twists, turns, and fast paced action throughout the book.
The Raven is back in the third installment and becomes more of an impact within the story. There is more of an emotional upheaval in the last half of the book as the battle rages on between the Mirovar Force team members and the vampires.
This book is loaded with so many weapons, it makes you think that you are reading a weapons manual and not a urban fantasy vampire series! If a weapon exists in the real world, I guarantee that you will find it within these pages as almost all of them are in this book!
You (the reader) just think you are reading a book in your cozy, comfortable chair when in reality you are plopped down in the midst of an action movie!
Do you like high emotions with your heart racing out of your chest?
Do you like edge of your seat adventure?
Do you like to feel the characters emotions throughout a book?
Then this is the book for you! You will not only be reading the pulse pounding action, you will also be feeling it in your bones as with every turn of the page, you will not want to put it down as you are going to want to see what happens next!
Oh and you think that you will be able to sleep while you are in the midst of battle? No, you cannot sleep! You have to carry on to the end of each chapter as there is no sleep while reading this book! The characters do not rest so why should you?! :)
So come one and come all to the World of the Metaframe. Once you enter this series, it will not let you go and you will want to continue on to the end! This book is staying at five stars as it deserves nothing less!
Highly recommend to action adventure/urban fantasy fans!
My third time around for this book!
The first two books in the series have action, but nothing like this book. In this book you are dodging the bullets as they zip by you,
along with marital arts sword fighting techniques,
rockets are launching,
and as the swords are clashing against each other, you not only hear them, you can feel each thrust of the sword. Welcome to Dragon's Den, the third book in the Metaframe War.
There is a war going on between the Vampire Dominion, the Red Empire and the Order of Thoth. What really kicks the war off is when the vampires had abducted Ramon Kain from the previous book, A Traitor's War. The vampires are going to do everything in their power to make him talk no matter what.
While the vampires are trying to get him to spill his secrets, the Mirovar Force team are hot on their heels as they try to rescue Ramon Kain before he decides to tell all. As the Mirovar Force team pursues the vampires, they encounter troops from Shadowstone, and the battle begins.
There are lots of twists, turns, and fast paced action throughout the book.
The Raven is back in the third installment and becomes more of an impact within the story. There is more of an emotional upheaval in the last half of the book as the battle rages on between the Mirovar Force team members and the vampires.
This book is loaded with so many weapons, it makes you think that you are reading a weapons manual and not a urban fantasy vampire series! If a weapon exists in the real world, I guarantee that you will find it within these pages as almost all of them are in this book!
You (the reader) just think you are reading a book in your cozy, comfortable chair when in reality you are plopped down in the midst of an action movie!
Do you like high emotions with your heart racing out of your chest?
Do you like edge of your seat adventure?
Do you like to feel the characters emotions throughout a book?
Then this is the book for you! You will not only be reading the pulse pounding action, you will also be feeling it in your bones as with every turn of the page, you will not want to put it down as you are going to want to see what happens next!
Oh and you think that you will be able to sleep while you are in the midst of battle? No, you cannot sleep! You have to carry on to the end of each chapter as there is no sleep while reading this book! The characters do not rest so why should you?! :)
So come one and come all to the World of the Metaframe. Once you enter this series, it will not let you go and you will want to continue on to the end! This book is staying at five stars as it deserves nothing less!
Highly recommend to action adventure/urban fantasy fans!
Read
January 20, 2024Scribe Scandal! Main Character Admits Sets Are All Fake! "Well, it was an offer too good to refuse. How could I know the little fink would rat me out!" - Journal of Ratfink Characters
I was seriously considering reviewing my third book, ‘The Dragon’s Den,’ when the opportunity came up to interview one of my main characters. It was an offer too good to refuse, I might be able to get some real, ‘behind the scenes,’ insight into the book to share with my readers.
Anton Slayne has graciously given time out of his busy schedule for an interview, and here it is.
I’m sitting with Anton Slayne at Patrick O’Malley’s Irish pub, in his home town of Boston. Anton’s almost half way through completing his role as the main character for The Dragon’s Den and has agreed to give an interview to discuss progress so far.
ME: “So let’s begin Anton, how did you get the MC gig for the third installment of The Metaframe War series?”
ANTON: “Well it was a close thing. Li Wu, nearly got the role after a strong showing in A Traitor’s War, but the old geezer running the show finally decided that my part is the real deal. So, I’ve got the MC gig.”
ME: “There have been some controversial reports that you’re not the MC, and never will be.”
ANTON: “What!?”
ME: “Some commentators have suggested that Chloe Armitage, is in fact, the real MC. What do you think of that?”
ANTON: “Read my lips. Chloe Armitage is the ‘ARCH-NEMESIS,’ not the MC. … I don’t know how often I’ve gotta say this - she’s not the MC, I am.”
ME: “Hmmm, OK, let’s move on. It’s been suggested that you have ‘daddy issues.’ Is this for real, or are people just making it up?”
ANTON: (Shakes head) “Well? What can I say? I’m just a big kid really, but I’ve finished boot camp, and killed my first vampire. In this book, I really get my game face on, and start kicking ass. … ‘Daddy issues,’ - they’re a thing of the past.”
ME: “The Dragon’s Den is almost entirely set in the United Kingdom. What’s it been like working in another country?”
ANTON: “You’re kidding me. No, none of it’s been done in the UK. We’re all working out of a disused warehouse south of Boston. The SPIKE 512 is a cardboard cutout with ‘Vamp Air’ written on the side. The Blackwidow’s are scale plastic models of Apache gunships. Our guns are made of wood. That tightwad of an author is not going to stump for tickets to England. I mean look at us, we’re in a pub in Boston, do you think we would be here if we were working in the UK?”
ME: “I guess so. Moving on, what are relationships like amongst the crew?”
ANTON: “Very professional, across the board, except for Chloe Armitage - she's a complete prima donna. The rest of us are busting our humps, working twelve hour days to get everything right, and she just swans in when she has a scene, no preparation, no rehearsal and just ad-libs her lines. I just don’t get how she gets away with it.”
ME: “You don’t like her very much do you. Is that because she's playing the part of a vampire.”
ANTON: (Scowls) “Hell no, it’s because she steals every scene she’s in and she gets all the best lines.” (Looks at his watch) “Well, I’ve gotta call it quits - gotta get back to the warehouse.”
ME: “The next scene?”
ANTON: “Nah, Peter’s doing a Bar-b-Que and a keg.” (Leaves)
And there you have it. It seems that working on The Dragon’s Den is not quite what it seems for Anton Slayne. We will have to wait until the book is published in January 2018 to see if Anton Slayne really is the main character and has shaken off those persistent rumours of ‘daddy issues.’
I was seriously considering reviewing my third book, ‘The Dragon’s Den,’ when the opportunity came up to interview one of my main characters. It was an offer too good to refuse, I might be able to get some real, ‘behind the scenes,’ insight into the book to share with my readers.
Anton Slayne has graciously given time out of his busy schedule for an interview, and here it is.
I’m sitting with Anton Slayne at Patrick O’Malley’s Irish pub, in his home town of Boston. Anton’s almost half way through completing his role as the main character for The Dragon’s Den and has agreed to give an interview to discuss progress so far.
ME: “So let’s begin Anton, how did you get the MC gig for the third installment of The Metaframe War series?”
ANTON: “Well it was a close thing. Li Wu, nearly got the role after a strong showing in A Traitor’s War, but the old geezer running the show finally decided that my part is the real deal. So, I’ve got the MC gig.”
ME: “There have been some controversial reports that you’re not the MC, and never will be.”
ANTON: “What!?”
ME: “Some commentators have suggested that Chloe Armitage, is in fact, the real MC. What do you think of that?”
ANTON: “Read my lips. Chloe Armitage is the ‘ARCH-NEMESIS,’ not the MC. … I don’t know how often I’ve gotta say this - she’s not the MC, I am.”
ME: “Hmmm, OK, let’s move on. It’s been suggested that you have ‘daddy issues.’ Is this for real, or are people just making it up?”
ANTON: (Shakes head) “Well? What can I say? I’m just a big kid really, but I’ve finished boot camp, and killed my first vampire. In this book, I really get my game face on, and start kicking ass. … ‘Daddy issues,’ - they’re a thing of the past.”
ME: “The Dragon’s Den is almost entirely set in the United Kingdom. What’s it been like working in another country?”
ANTON: “You’re kidding me. No, none of it’s been done in the UK. We’re all working out of a disused warehouse south of Boston. The SPIKE 512 is a cardboard cutout with ‘Vamp Air’ written on the side. The Blackwidow’s are scale plastic models of Apache gunships. Our guns are made of wood. That tightwad of an author is not going to stump for tickets to England. I mean look at us, we’re in a pub in Boston, do you think we would be here if we were working in the UK?”
ME: “I guess so. Moving on, what are relationships like amongst the crew?”
ANTON: “Very professional, across the board, except for Chloe Armitage - she's a complete prima donna. The rest of us are busting our humps, working twelve hour days to get everything right, and she just swans in when she has a scene, no preparation, no rehearsal and just ad-libs her lines. I just don’t get how she gets away with it.”
ME: “You don’t like her very much do you. Is that because she's playing the part of a vampire.”
ANTON: (Scowls) “Hell no, it’s because she steals every scene she’s in and she gets all the best lines.” (Looks at his watch) “Well, I’ve gotta call it quits - gotta get back to the warehouse.”
ME: “The next scene?”
ANTON: “Nah, Peter’s doing a Bar-b-Que and a keg.” (Leaves)
And there you have it. It seems that working on The Dragon’s Den is not quite what it seems for Anton Slayne. We will have to wait until the book is published in January 2018 to see if Anton Slayne really is the main character and has shaken off those persistent rumours of ‘daddy issues.’
February 2, 2018
Full review now posted!
First, I would like to thank the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for providing me with an ARC of The Dragon's Den. Also, this was a buddy read with my new peeps at Castle Dracula. Looking forward to delving into plenty more vampire and horror books with this bloodthirsty crew.
Now, on to the review. The Dragon's Den is the third installment in The Metaframe War. The story picks up right after the events of book 2. The Mirovar force team are on their way to England in hot pursuit of Chloe Armitage and her hostage Ramin Kain, Head of the Order of Thoth. What ensues is a path of destruction that would make director Michael Bay cringe.
The events in The Dragon's Den take place over the course of one day. Graeme manages to fill that day full of situations that test the will and strength of the Mirovar force team. I was constantly in a state of suspense. Just when a scene would end I would breath a sigh of relief only to be back on the edge of my seat two pages later. There is literally little time to come up for air in between the endless stream of conflict.
While the focus is mainly on the Mirovar force team, there are plenty of other things going on as well. At the end of book 2 The Raven was left contemplating their next move. How will they react? What will the consequences be? And most of all, how will if affect the war? Also, Chloe Armitage seems to be using her secret alliance with to her advantage, but will one of her decisions come back to haunt her in the coming books. All of these side story lines fit nicely into the flow of the book, and helps to mix things up while keeping you guessing at the same time.
Up to this point the major storylines have been focused around Anton Slayne and Chloe Armitage. But Graeme always manages to keep things mixed up with some side character POV's meshed into the dialogue as well. The ones that stood out to me here are The Raven, The Sand Crocodile, and Director Heathmonte of Shadowstone Organization. Anton gets plenty of page time in this episode, but I would like to have seen a little more of Chloe. I know the way the story played out didn't allow this to happen, but I am sure we will get more of her in The Day Guard.
The Dragon's Den was another great installment in The Metaframe War. Graeme continues to dig us deeper and deeper into this violent and unique underworld society. I said in one of my BR updates that I could see this series being a hit movie, and I stand by that statement. As readers we all want to be entertained, and Graeme Rodaughan is a master at entertainment. I would recommend all readers to give this series a try, but it will undoubtedly appeal to those who enjoy thriller and urban fantasy. As for me, I will be impatiently waiting for the next book in this series.
4.75 stars *****
First, I would like to thank the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for providing me with an ARC of The Dragon's Den. Also, this was a buddy read with my new peeps at Castle Dracula. Looking forward to delving into plenty more vampire and horror books with this bloodthirsty crew.
Now, on to the review. The Dragon's Den is the third installment in The Metaframe War. The story picks up right after the events of book 2. The Mirovar force team are on their way to England in hot pursuit of Chloe Armitage and her hostage Ramin Kain, Head of the Order of Thoth. What ensues is a path of destruction that would make director Michael Bay cringe.
The events in The Dragon's Den take place over the course of one day. Graeme manages to fill that day full of situations that test the will and strength of the Mirovar force team. I was constantly in a state of suspense. Just when a scene would end I would breath a sigh of relief only to be back on the edge of my seat two pages later. There is literally little time to come up for air in between the endless stream of conflict.
While the focus is mainly on the Mirovar force team, there are plenty of other things going on as well. At the end of book 2 The Raven was left contemplating their next move. How will they react? What will the consequences be? And most of all, how will if affect the war? Also, Chloe Armitage seems to be using her secret alliance with to her advantage, but will one of her decisions come back to haunt her in the coming books. All of these side story lines fit nicely into the flow of the book, and helps to mix things up while keeping you guessing at the same time.
Up to this point the major storylines have been focused around Anton Slayne and Chloe Armitage. But Graeme always manages to keep things mixed up with some side character POV's meshed into the dialogue as well. The ones that stood out to me here are The Raven, The Sand Crocodile, and Director Heathmonte of Shadowstone Organization. Anton gets plenty of page time in this episode, but I would like to have seen a little more of Chloe. I know the way the story played out didn't allow this to happen, but I am sure we will get more of her in The Day Guard.
The Dragon's Den was another great installment in The Metaframe War. Graeme continues to dig us deeper and deeper into this violent and unique underworld society. I said in one of my BR updates that I could see this series being a hit movie, and I stand by that statement. As readers we all want to be entertained, and Graeme Rodaughan is a master at entertainment. I would recommend all readers to give this series a try, but it will undoubtedly appeal to those who enjoy thriller and urban fantasy. As for me, I will be impatiently waiting for the next book in this series.
"The past must die so the future may live."
4.75 stars *****
August 20, 2024
Say something about Graeme Rodaughan! Say that he writes kick-ass action!!
I swear his books are getting better and better with each installment of this series! If you liked A Subtle Agency and A Traitor's War, you are going to LOVE The Dragon's Den!!
Nail-biting, cringe-worthy, heart-wrenching, edge-of-the-seat high-octane action from the beginning to the very end! This part of the Metaframe War Series is the one where ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE!
"Damn it. I'm just going to have a go. No one ever won a game without attacking the goal."
Anton Slayne
So hang on to your seats ladies and gents cause Graeme dumps us from frying pan into the fire chapter after chapter, making us forget we're actually reading a book and plunging us straight into an action movie!
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - supervillain Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion. Hell, everybody knows it's a trap but the trick will be to steal the cheese without springing it.
And it doesn't help that one of Anton's own is in trouble, that the Raven is a loose card able to doom everyone with a single phone call, or that the Red Empire seems to have allied with the Vampire Dominion against the Order of Toth!
In a race against time, the Mirovar team heads out to rescue the captive Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth, abducted by agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion at the end of the previous book. But will they arrive in time before Ramin will be forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies? You're gonna have to read this to find out! But I'll give you a few clues of what to expect on the way.
Action, action and more action!
Crashed business jets with the pilot smiling at the escorting fighter jet's pilot with a dopey "love at first sight" grin accompanied by a thumbs up just before he goes down!
Gruesome torture:
"Chloe's open hand flashed out, a resounding crack echoing off the walls. His left cheeckbone shattered, his head almost spinning off his shoulders."
Exquisitely descriptive blood and gore:
"Blood, bone and brains splashed in a broad swathe across the clinical whiteness of the right wall. An instant later, he drove a stainless steel spike through the head of the smiling chubby faced, second tech on the left. ...The taller tech's body, now headless, was crumpled on the floor gushing blood in a spreading pool from the open remains of the neck. Of his head there was no sign except the dripping residue over one corner of the room."
Raw field surgeries done on the run, with the patient clanching the teeth on a rag to stop from screaming.
And insane car chases with ramp masters fighting on top of speeding trucks, Blackwidow gunships, hitting the bitumen of the road at over one hundred miles per hour and even truck hatch-doors ripped open and launched at incoming enemy forces with a heart-felt: "Dodge this, mother-..."
"What tha' hell!!" will be your only possible reaction to scenes that bring in mind Fast and Furious, Blade and Underworld!
All the above is told in a first-rate cinematic style that manages to draw the reader in to the point of not wanting to stop reading!
The description of guns and technology Graeme offers, blurs the line between fantasy and reality in such a subtle manner that you will have to wonder where reality ends and fantasy begins. The level of research on this particular subject, that the author has obviously done, is staggering.
And all of it combines with a natural dialogue and easy flowing writing style that practically makes the tale jump off the page.
It is so easy to picture a frustrated commander muttering:
"What the hell am I supposed to say, we just got our asses kicked by one man with a fucking flying frisbee?!"
or a young policeman fresh out of cadet school "clutching his cap tight to his head to stop the wash from two vehicles blowing it off."
And no! Graeme is not one of those writers who give you a happy ever after perfect ending. He doesn't hold back from wounding his own people, and doesn't shy away from killing them either. So be careful who you get attached to, cause you may get a lot of heartache at the end of this book!
The bottom-line is this: there's only so many ways to say A-W-E-S-O-M-E when talking about The Dragon's Den. I've read it with the cool action-loving guys from Fantasy Buddy Reads and all of us, in that BR agreed on the same. This book packs a hell of a punch and it is simply:
You Have Got To Read This People!!
You may just love quite as much as I did!
Happy reading! :)
Check out this review and more over at The Magic Book Corner
I swear his books are getting better and better with each installment of this series! If you liked A Subtle Agency and A Traitor's War, you are going to LOVE The Dragon's Den!!
Nail-biting, cringe-worthy, heart-wrenching, edge-of-the-seat high-octane action from the beginning to the very end! This part of the Metaframe War Series is the one where ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE!
"Damn it. I'm just going to have a go. No one ever won a game without attacking the goal."
Anton Slayne
So hang on to your seats ladies and gents cause Graeme dumps us from frying pan into the fire chapter after chapter, making us forget we're actually reading a book and plunging us straight into an action movie!
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - supervillain Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion. Hell, everybody knows it's a trap but the trick will be to steal the cheese without springing it.
And it doesn't help that one of Anton's own is in trouble, that the Raven is a loose card able to doom everyone with a single phone call, or that the Red Empire seems to have allied with the Vampire Dominion against the Order of Toth!
In a race against time, the Mirovar team heads out to rescue the captive Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth, abducted by agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion at the end of the previous book. But will they arrive in time before Ramin will be forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies? You're gonna have to read this to find out! But I'll give you a few clues of what to expect on the way.
Action, action and more action!
Crashed business jets with the pilot smiling at the escorting fighter jet's pilot with a dopey "love at first sight" grin accompanied by a thumbs up just before he goes down!
Gruesome torture:
"Chloe's open hand flashed out, a resounding crack echoing off the walls. His left cheeckbone shattered, his head almost spinning off his shoulders."
Exquisitely descriptive blood and gore:
"Blood, bone and brains splashed in a broad swathe across the clinical whiteness of the right wall. An instant later, he drove a stainless steel spike through the head of the smiling chubby faced, second tech on the left. ...The taller tech's body, now headless, was crumpled on the floor gushing blood in a spreading pool from the open remains of the neck. Of his head there was no sign except the dripping residue over one corner of the room."
Raw field surgeries done on the run, with the patient clanching the teeth on a rag to stop from screaming.
And insane car chases with ramp masters fighting on top of speeding trucks, Blackwidow gunships, hitting the bitumen of the road at over one hundred miles per hour and even truck hatch-doors ripped open and launched at incoming enemy forces with a heart-felt: "Dodge this, mother-..."
"What tha' hell!!" will be your only possible reaction to scenes that bring in mind Fast and Furious, Blade and Underworld!
All the above is told in a first-rate cinematic style that manages to draw the reader in to the point of not wanting to stop reading!
The description of guns and technology Graeme offers, blurs the line between fantasy and reality in such a subtle manner that you will have to wonder where reality ends and fantasy begins. The level of research on this particular subject, that the author has obviously done, is staggering.
And all of it combines with a natural dialogue and easy flowing writing style that practically makes the tale jump off the page.
It is so easy to picture a frustrated commander muttering:
"What the hell am I supposed to say, we just got our asses kicked by one man with a fucking flying frisbee?!"
or a young policeman fresh out of cadet school "clutching his cap tight to his head to stop the wash from two vehicles blowing it off."
And no! Graeme is not one of those writers who give you a happy ever after perfect ending. He doesn't hold back from wounding his own people, and doesn't shy away from killing them either. So be careful who you get attached to, cause you may get a lot of heartache at the end of this book!
The bottom-line is this: there's only so many ways to say A-W-E-S-O-M-E when talking about The Dragon's Den. I've read it with the cool action-loving guys from Fantasy Buddy Reads and all of us, in that BR agreed on the same. This book packs a hell of a punch and it is simply:
You Have Got To Read This People!!
You may just love quite as much as I did!
Happy reading! :)
Check out this review and more over at The Magic Book Corner
May 22, 2022
Reread in April/May of 2022: Such superior action and characters. Loved it even more.
Original: Another great installment continuing the saga of The Metaframe War! Tons of action and more intrigue kept my eyes glued to the pages in this one, just like in the previous two. Great characters and lots of surprises throughout again leave me excited about this series, and definitely in want of more. I'm eagerly going to be awaiting the next book later this year. Kudos to the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for creating such a fun world to get lost in for a while!
Original: Another great installment continuing the saga of The Metaframe War! Tons of action and more intrigue kept my eyes glued to the pages in this one, just like in the previous two. Great characters and lots of surprises throughout again leave me excited about this series, and definitely in want of more. I'm eagerly going to be awaiting the next book later this year. Kudos to the author, Graeme Rodaughan, for creating such a fun world to get lost in for a while!
August 4, 2024
In this installment, we follow Anton Slayne as he tries to track and kill his arch-enemy, General Chloe Armitage of the Vampire Dominion.
On the other side of the plot, she has agendas of her own and tries to bait Anton's force team into her insidious plans for ruling the hapless humans.
The world-building is superb and we are treated to a fast paced and consistent plot that remains interesting and intriguing. Recommended.
On the other side of the plot, she has agendas of her own and tries to bait Anton's force team into her insidious plans for ruling the hapless humans.
The world-building is superb and we are treated to a fast paced and consistent plot that remains interesting and intriguing. Recommended.
February 3, 2019
A great read
This is the third book in an ongoing series. I highly recommend this series to not only UF fans, but also to anyone that like a good super high octane action sequence. The author seemlessly blends highly detailed current technology with some fantasy elements that engender a great book! The action sequences remind me of Tom Clancy’s novels.
This is the third book in an ongoing series. I highly recommend this series to not only UF fans, but also to anyone that like a good super high octane action sequence. The author seemlessly blends highly detailed current technology with some fantasy elements that engender a great book! The action sequences remind me of Tom Clancy’s novels.
July 21, 2021
This book is part of the Metaframe Omnibus, books 1-3. It's amazeballs. That's all you need to know.
Well, that, and you need to stop reading my review here and go get a copy.
Well, that, and you need to stop reading my review here and go get a copy.
February 7, 2018
I received an ARC of “The Dragon's Den” from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Third chapter of the "The Metaframe War" series, the story picks up where the previous book ended up. The team goes in pursuit of Chloe Armitage, across the ocean, to England, in an attempt to rescue Ramin Kain before he can reveal all the secrets of the order.
After the previous book, that I liked very much, I wondered how the author could keep the same level of suspense and action. Needless concern, “The Dragon's Den” is pure adrenaline, with rapid actions and chases breathtaking.
But let's go in order. I really liked the glimpse on Chloe's past life in the first chapter, where we see the moment of her transformation. This says a lot about her motivations and puts the reader in front of the scope of her will. I cannot consider her my favorite character, even if she proves to be always a step ahead of others.
The character of Anton has certainly grown and we follow the change during the pages of the book. He and the "The Raven", more than others, evolve throughout history, maturing as events progress.
The author makes a very detailed description of the operations, with a full overview of the weapons and the equipment used. Unfortunately, many terms and acronyms were unknown to me, but thanks to the explanations included in the dialogues and a little of curiosity, I managed to extricate myself.
It's the kind of story that you can turn in a great action movie, the sequences are described so clearly that you seem to see them.
I would say that here, more than in any other book, betrayal and plots reach their climax and the queen of the deception is always her, Chloe Armitage. But perhaps things will change in the next book, after all, some things have already escaped his control.
Since the story is focused on the Mirovar team, there are no references to the origin of the vampires or to Arthur Slayne, but the figure of Juliette and the skills of a loremaster are deepened.
I really enjoyed the story and I can’t wait to read the following chapter!
Third chapter of the "The Metaframe War" series, the story picks up where the previous book ended up. The team goes in pursuit of Chloe Armitage, across the ocean, to England, in an attempt to rescue Ramin Kain before he can reveal all the secrets of the order.
After the previous book, that I liked very much, I wondered how the author could keep the same level of suspense and action. Needless concern, “The Dragon's Den” is pure adrenaline, with rapid actions and chases breathtaking.
But let's go in order. I really liked the glimpse on Chloe's past life in the first chapter, where we see the moment of her transformation. This says a lot about her motivations and puts the reader in front of the scope of her will. I cannot consider her my favorite character, even if she proves to be always a step ahead of others.
The character of Anton has certainly grown and we follow the change during the pages of the book. He and the "The Raven", more than others, evolve throughout history, maturing as events progress.
The author makes a very detailed description of the operations, with a full overview of the weapons and the equipment used. Unfortunately, many terms and acronyms were unknown to me, but thanks to the explanations included in the dialogues and a little of curiosity, I managed to extricate myself.
It's the kind of story that you can turn in a great action movie, the sequences are described so clearly that you seem to see them.
I would say that here, more than in any other book, betrayal and plots reach their climax and the queen of the deception is always her, Chloe Armitage. But perhaps things will change in the next book, after all, some things have already escaped his control.
Since the story is focused on the Mirovar team, there are no references to the origin of the vampires or to Arthur Slayne, but the figure of Juliette and the skills of a loremaster are deepened.
I really enjoyed the story and I can’t wait to read the following chapter!
May 20, 2025
Whew! Having just finished The Dragon’s Den, I can now resume breathing! Book three of Graeme Rodaughan’s Metaframe series is a breathtaking ride that has left my lungs craving air and my shoulders up past my ears! With the exception of the prologue, this series installment takes place over a two day period. And trust me when I say that it is pure, adrenaline-fueled action the entire time!
Double crosses, triple crosses, and blurred loyalties continue in this book. And sadly several beloved characters don’t make it to this one’s finish line. But one thing is certain…as book three closes and I look ahead to the continued battles between the Vampire Dominion, the Red Empire, and Anton Slayne with his friends of the Mirovar Force Team, I have no doubt in the truth of these author’s words…
“It was time for Anton to walk the true path of vengeance, a pathway soaked in blood, suffering, and wrath.”
5 vengeance-, wrath-, and blood-filled ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!
Double crosses, triple crosses, and blurred loyalties continue in this book. And sadly several beloved characters don’t make it to this one’s finish line. But one thing is certain…as book three closes and I look ahead to the continued battles between the Vampire Dominion, the Red Empire, and Anton Slayne with his friends of the Mirovar Force Team, I have no doubt in the truth of these author’s words…
“It was time for Anton to walk the true path of vengeance, a pathway soaked in blood, suffering, and wrath.”
5 vengeance-, wrath-, and blood-filled ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!
January 28, 2018
"Violence will be my friend,” Anton uttered, a ferocious light behind his eyes."
Take a deep breath and grab your swords because this whole book is one long bloody fight to the finish!
"She would make deception obsolete. It was her destiny."
Chloe Armitage is taking her plan to the next level. Her mind never still, her aim true, her will unshakable. Nothing will stand in her way.
This was an action movie of a book. There were more grizzly deaths than chapters, more bullets fired than words typed.
That said with all the military accoutrements and acronyms, ramping and slow mo, shooting and swordplay, I would get lost when I picked the story up after a break.
Are they being chased by helicopters or cars? Are they on a trailer or a tanker? Where did that sword go?
The best part of the story was Anton. Once a whiny foolish lad he has grown into a focused, violent, vengeful, two dimensional character. This is not an insult, Wrath of Khan is one of my favorite movies!
A solid four star read.
June 7, 2020
Rating: 4.5 stars
Hang on tight! The Dragon's Den, the third book in The Metaframe War by Graeme Rodaughan, is one bullet filled action thrill ride from beginning to end with very little time to catch your breath. Again, the story picks up right where the second left off without wasting any time. Ramin Kain, the head of the Order of Thoth, has been abducted and Team Mirovar is the only one in position to mount a rescue. It is obviously a trap but they must try to rescue Kain before he tells all the Order's secrets to their sworn enemies.
If you don't like Matrix-style cinematic action, give this series a pass. You have bullet dodging, sword swinging, tanks firing crazy action on nearly every page. Even with all of that going on we are still given several points of view, both of the action and of what's going on inside character's heads. I like the side characters that were given points of view to add depth to an already complicated situation. Another fun tidbit is we're treated to Chloe's origin story - the day she was turned to a vampire. She has been plotting her revenge and eventual freedom for a long, long time. It's great to have a villain who plays the long game well.
The book wraps up the first story arc of the series. It ends in a nice place with most loose ends tied up yet enough of a tease for what is go come. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
Hang on tight! The Dragon's Den, the third book in The Metaframe War by Graeme Rodaughan, is one bullet filled action thrill ride from beginning to end with very little time to catch your breath. Again, the story picks up right where the second left off without wasting any time. Ramin Kain, the head of the Order of Thoth, has been abducted and Team Mirovar is the only one in position to mount a rescue. It is obviously a trap but they must try to rescue Kain before he tells all the Order's secrets to their sworn enemies.
If you don't like Matrix-style cinematic action, give this series a pass. You have bullet dodging, sword swinging, tanks firing crazy action on nearly every page. Even with all of that going on we are still given several points of view, both of the action and of what's going on inside character's heads. I like the side characters that were given points of view to add depth to an already complicated situation. Another fun tidbit is we're treated to Chloe's origin story - the day she was turned to a vampire. She has been plotting her revenge and eventual freedom for a long, long time. It's great to have a villain who plays the long game well.
The book wraps up the first story arc of the series. It ends in a nice place with most loose ends tied up yet enough of a tease for what is go come. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
January 29, 2018
If you thought the last book was full of action you aint seen nothin' yet!
The Mirovar team are now deep in it, with yet more betrayals from the order and misdirection from Chloe and all hell breaking loose at pretty much every opportunity. Not to mention some red empire people thrown in for good measure.
The fight and flight across the UK is just non stop with people getting injured and dying left right and centre, not to mention stuff being blown up. Its nice to see more of the role of Loremasters but as usual its Chloe that steals the show with some first rate plotting, high tech traps and down and dirty subterfuge with her red empire allies.
I need a holiday after all that and sadly i now have one till the Day Guard arrives. Write faster Graeme!
The Mirovar team are now deep in it, with yet more betrayals from the order and misdirection from Chloe and all hell breaking loose at pretty much every opportunity. Not to mention some red empire people thrown in for good measure.
The fight and flight across the UK is just non stop with people getting injured and dying left right and centre, not to mention stuff being blown up. Its nice to see more of the role of Loremasters but as usual its Chloe that steals the show with some first rate plotting, high tech traps and down and dirty subterfuge with her red empire allies.
I need a holiday after all that and sadly i now have one till the Day Guard arrives. Write faster Graeme!
January 29, 2018
The third book of the Metaframe War saga brings with it a cascade of high tech battle scenes, where we see armored cars fighting tanks, tanks fighting helicopter gunships, and enhanced supermen fighting vampires. Vampires? How’d they get in there?
We begin with a flashback showing the origin of series villainess, Chloe Armitage. So far, she’s proved the most interesting character in the series. That often happens when writing about vampires.
In the modern day, Chloe has set her sights on our hero Anton, hoping to use him to advance her cause. From the first chapter, we jump into and the action is virtually nonstop.
“The Metaframe War” series suffered from the sophomore jinx. The second installment had very long scenes with characters training and sparing. The characters may need to do that, but the reader can be spared. Fortunately, there is none of that in the third book—just rampaging action and intrigue, like a good superhero comic book.
The writing is good, sharp, although with a lot of cutting edge military mumbo-jumbo. How much mumbo-jumbo? I had to read this with Wikipedia open so I could look up the various MRAPs, CPUs, FN P90s, MRUs, H&K MP5s, and so forth, just so I could tell what the heck he was talking about. Rodaughan is clearly a tech junkie and it shows in almost every sentence of his books. For readers who keep track of that stuff, this series will be a stroke book. Technologically-illiterate readers like myself, sometimes challenged by washing machines and toasters, might get left behind. The technology was a lot easier to follow when it was just coffins, crucifixes, and wooden stakes.
But the book’s definitely an adrenaline rush. Almost every page has battles, fighting, or double-dealing. I do like how we get to know some of the sideline characters, even root for them, before they are blown to bits. Occasionally, they survive, more or less.
There are a few issues with punctuation, but you might miss them as the action grabs you and carries you along. Commas are missing in places or commas are used instead of periods or semi-colons. But the punctuation problems are not rampant.
While the writing is mostly good, some lines are flat when they could easily be enlivened. Like when two warriors are “...wearing what appeared to be sunglasses, but were obviously the same technology the pair of Order operatives who had infiltrated the dungeon that morning had been wearing.” That's very awkward. Instead, how about, “They now wore what appeared to be sunglasses, but was the same technology as the Order operatives she'd encountered that morning in the dungeon.”
Other times we’re given large blocks of narrative that would play better—and more dramatically—as dialog. In particular, give the pompous character of Gordon a flunky to whom he can vent his misgivings about his American colleague, instead of reading his thoughts to learn his opinions.
On a similar note, we once again have this nameless, sexless “Raven” who is annoyingly referred to with words like ‘they’ and ‘their’. It is one thing to do that with a hypothetical person, but quite another to do it with an actual character. A better way to handle this would be to literally get in his/her head and tell the Raven’s story in the first person.
But if you love non-stop action and plenty of double-dealing, “The Metaframe War” is for you.
We begin with a flashback showing the origin of series villainess, Chloe Armitage. So far, she’s proved the most interesting character in the series. That often happens when writing about vampires.
In the modern day, Chloe has set her sights on our hero Anton, hoping to use him to advance her cause. From the first chapter, we jump into and the action is virtually nonstop.
“The Metaframe War” series suffered from the sophomore jinx. The second installment had very long scenes with characters training and sparing. The characters may need to do that, but the reader can be spared. Fortunately, there is none of that in the third book—just rampaging action and intrigue, like a good superhero comic book.
The writing is good, sharp, although with a lot of cutting edge military mumbo-jumbo. How much mumbo-jumbo? I had to read this with Wikipedia open so I could look up the various MRAPs, CPUs, FN P90s, MRUs, H&K MP5s, and so forth, just so I could tell what the heck he was talking about. Rodaughan is clearly a tech junkie and it shows in almost every sentence of his books. For readers who keep track of that stuff, this series will be a stroke book. Technologically-illiterate readers like myself, sometimes challenged by washing machines and toasters, might get left behind. The technology was a lot easier to follow when it was just coffins, crucifixes, and wooden stakes.
But the book’s definitely an adrenaline rush. Almost every page has battles, fighting, or double-dealing. I do like how we get to know some of the sideline characters, even root for them, before they are blown to bits. Occasionally, they survive, more or less.
There are a few issues with punctuation, but you might miss them as the action grabs you and carries you along. Commas are missing in places or commas are used instead of periods or semi-colons. But the punctuation problems are not rampant.
While the writing is mostly good, some lines are flat when they could easily be enlivened. Like when two warriors are “...wearing what appeared to be sunglasses, but were obviously the same technology the pair of Order operatives who had infiltrated the dungeon that morning had been wearing.” That's very awkward. Instead, how about, “They now wore what appeared to be sunglasses, but was the same technology as the Order operatives she'd encountered that morning in the dungeon.”
Other times we’re given large blocks of narrative that would play better—and more dramatically—as dialog. In particular, give the pompous character of Gordon a flunky to whom he can vent his misgivings about his American colleague, instead of reading his thoughts to learn his opinions.
On a similar note, we once again have this nameless, sexless “Raven” who is annoyingly referred to with words like ‘they’ and ‘their’. It is one thing to do that with a hypothetical person, but quite another to do it with an actual character. A better way to handle this would be to literally get in his/her head and tell the Raven’s story in the first person.
But if you love non-stop action and plenty of double-dealing, “The Metaframe War” is for you.
July 31, 2022
Reading this book felt like stepping into a hurricane wind tunnel with no off switch and no timer. It was fast, intense, and left me with my head reeling from all of the octane-fueled action.
I'm left wondering, will this series ever slow down? There are major plot twists and developments, and it just doesn't seem to stop coming. I'm loving this series so far, and I'm very much looking forward to the next one.
I'm left wondering, will this series ever slow down? There are major plot twists and developments, and it just doesn't seem to stop coming. I'm loving this series so far, and I'm very much looking forward to the next one.
September 23, 2020
"The Dragon’s Den" is the third book of an excellent series !
It should be read after "A subtle Agency" and "A Traitor’s War" by Graeme Rodaughan.
The story is unique, and all the characters are well developed . They are strong and clever , that’s very important for me.
It’s obvious that the Author done a lot of researches to create this complex , captivating and suspenseful story.
Hollywood or Netflix should do several movies based on those books.
I highly recommend this book, and the two previous ones who are part of The Metaframe War series , to lovers of vampires stories !!
It should be read after "A subtle Agency" and "A Traitor’s War" by Graeme Rodaughan.
The story is unique, and all the characters are well developed . They are strong and clever , that’s very important for me.
It’s obvious that the Author done a lot of researches to create this complex , captivating and suspenseful story.
Hollywood or Netflix should do several movies based on those books.
I highly recommend this book, and the two previous ones who are part of The Metaframe War series , to lovers of vampires stories !!
April 25, 2022
Whew! This installment of the Metaframe war series read like the most actiony action movie that ever actioned. My goodness they were blowing up a lot of shit!! I loved it! Here's the hard thing about a series like this. Not everyone can make it out alive, obviously. There are multiple battles between The Order, Shadowstone and the Vampire Dominion and some people are going to have to die. And sometimes those people happen to be one of my FAVORITE CHARACTERS!!! Damn! It's ok, I'm ok. On to the next!
And still, I don't know who The Raven is!!
And still, I don't know who The Raven is!!
February 9, 2019
The previous book was positively SLOW in comparison (somehow)... so much cinematic action... tempted to make a "car salesman slapping the roof" meme: *this bad boy fits so much action*
It's gonna suck once I'm caught up... but I'll survive... somehow...
It's gonna suck once I'm caught up... but I'll survive... somehow...
January 17, 2018
High action and heavy artillery are a definite positive in this story. All the helicopter and military names didn't do much for me but the action would make an amazing movie. Of course for me, what is most important is the connections between the characters. There are so many close calls that when someone actually dies it just doesn't seem fair. They made it all the way to the end and then they die. It was a shock. My favorite part was Raven realizing that they were on the wrong team and my least favorite was the deaths of good people.
January 27, 2018
The Dragon's Den keywords: Incinerate, Eviscerate
The third installment in The Metaframe War continues to deliver explosive, over-the-top, gut-spilling action in its innovative parkour, speed-ramping narrative style.
Despite a few missed opportunities for ripping the reader's emotions apart on the rack, its straight-up military strategy and tactics and driving plot will leave you gasping for air like a ramp trainee.
Don't go to a superhero movie.
Read The Dragon's Den.
The third installment in The Metaframe War continues to deliver explosive, over-the-top, gut-spilling action in its innovative parkour, speed-ramping narrative style.
Despite a few missed opportunities for ripping the reader's emotions apart on the rack, its straight-up military strategy and tactics and driving plot will leave you gasping for air like a ramp trainee.
Don't go to a superhero movie.
Read The Dragon's Den.
February 20, 2019
This book was like "Welcome back, good to see you, sit down, we're all out of starters, we only have 24 ounce steaks for main courses and here it is, waiting for you, get stuck in."
That is to say, after the first handful of pages it was relentless in its action. The reader is guided towards where they think the showdown is going to happen, and then realises the whole damn thing is a showdown. Pure, frenetic, ramp-coruscating action.
With that in mind, the set-pieces need to work, and while you're left mesmerised and wondering just how far the Morovar team can push their skills, they go and push it some more. It's frankly miraculous they get as far as they do, especially with grenades aiming their way as they cling to the top of a moving vehicle. Batted away like baseballs.
And the set-pieces do work. The obstacles they meet on their path are realistic (for this world), with the right amount of insurmountability to be surmounted. It is satisfying to read how they navigate their way from mini-battle to mini-battle, within the framework of the grander scale. The POV seems tighter than the previous two books, with clarity between characters when we switch. Individual character motivation is also more obvious, though sometimes questionable, but that's characters for you!
My only negative really is the run-on sentences; ironically it works well during action sequences, as the pace is kept racing. It doesn't work so well when we do get down time, and seems to be just how the writing style is. Seems picky, but I know it would be a bigger issue for me if this wasn't an action-oritiented series.
I enjoyed the ending too - the little teasers of further intrigue and misdirection and guilt and new character motivation. Leading straight to the next one! I wonder if it'll last longer than a few in-story hours!
January 22, 2018
One of the leading lights on the indie published scene, Graeme Rodaughan returns channeling his inner Matthew Reilly.
The Dragon's Den is non-stop action from start to finish and is much more up-tempo than the previous installment in this series, which I enjoyed. The Metaframe War continues to build and create an immersive environment for readers to get lost in. Graeme's cinematic vision is on full display here in this rollicking summer read (which ironically I read in winter).
The only caveats I have are the over-the-top action did wear in spots. The pacing was so fast, I personally found it could've done with some more down moments throughout the book to allow the characters a chance to grow - and me a chance to catch my breath. But action is Graeme's specialty :) I also found the sheer number of characters to be intimidating and in places confusing as to who was who.
Other than that, a fun 4 star read.
The Dragon's Den is non-stop action from start to finish and is much more up-tempo than the previous installment in this series, which I enjoyed. The Metaframe War continues to build and create an immersive environment for readers to get lost in. Graeme's cinematic vision is on full display here in this rollicking summer read (which ironically I read in winter).
The only caveats I have are the over-the-top action did wear in spots. The pacing was so fast, I personally found it could've done with some more down moments throughout the book to allow the characters a chance to grow - and me a chance to catch my breath. But action is Graeme's specialty :) I also found the sheer number of characters to be intimidating and in places confusing as to who was who.
Other than that, a fun 4 star read.
April 14, 2018
Just when I thought Graeme Rodaughan's Metaframe War series couldn't get more intricate, more intense, and more fun, Mr. Rodaughan cranked the dial to 11 and delivered the most crazy, wild, and exciting installment of the series yet.
If you like colorful characters, a well-woven plot, lots of gratuitous violence, and non-stop action, look no further than The Dragon's Den.
*Note* You could read this as a stand-alone, but I wouldn't recommend it. These books really need to be read as a series. They're worth the time.
If you like colorful characters, a well-woven plot, lots of gratuitous violence, and non-stop action, look no further than The Dragon's Den.
*Note* You could read this as a stand-alone, but I wouldn't recommend it. These books really need to be read as a series. They're worth the time.
August 23, 2022
This was so good, loving this series. Excellent, excellent, excellent.
August 27, 2018
Vampires, Superheros, and lots of action and adventure abound in The Dragon’s Den (The Metaframe War, Book 3), by Graeme Rodaughan. The level of action in this series is off the scale. A high tech war with very strategic military tactics ensues from the beginning to the end. There is blackmail, deceit, and lots of deception along the way. Once again I’m reminded as I read this series of a mix of Underworld & Blade, but much more adrenaline induced. Great characters, very interesting story and plot line. I love the multi level plots as well. It’s like with each new chapter there’s something new discovered or disclosed. Twists and turns aplenty, so strap in and prepare yourself for quite an adventure and a very entertaining reading experience. Got a peek into the next book The Day Guard at the end of this book and it looks like the action and adventure is most definitely not in short supply for the continuation of this fascinating story.
Synopsis (from the back cover): Superheroes and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - supervillain Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion.
The chase is on. Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion have abducted Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth. Anton and the Mirovar force team are the only ones in a position to act. They know Ramin is bait, but have to rescue him before he's forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies.
Will Anton and his friends in the Mirovar force team rescue Ramin Kain, or will Chloe Armitage discover the secrets of the Order of Thoth, destroy the Mirovar force team, and enslave Anton to her will?
The Author: I have one rule: Deliver an immersive reading experience that will transport you from the everyday world into a realm of fantastic imagination - and leave you there until you're forced to come up for air...
I'm in love with high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it
Synopsis (from the back cover): Superheroes and vampires are fighting a secret war for control of the fabric of reality. Whoever acquires mastery of the reality shifting powers of the Metaframe will become the new gods of the universe.
"Imagine if you could change the rules of the game, what rules would you choose?"
IT'S A TRAP! - Anton Slayne knows it's a trap. One laid for him by his most powerful opponent - supervillain Chloe Armitage, rogue general of the Vampire Dominion.
The chase is on. Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion have abducted Ramin Kain, the Head of the Order of Thoth. Anton and the Mirovar force team are the only ones in a position to act. They know Ramin is bait, but have to rescue him before he's forced to reveal everything he knows to the Order's sworn enemies.
Will Anton and his friends in the Mirovar force team rescue Ramin Kain, or will Chloe Armitage discover the secrets of the Order of Thoth, destroy the Mirovar force team, and enslave Anton to her will?
The Author: I have one rule: Deliver an immersive reading experience that will transport you from the everyday world into a realm of fantastic imagination - and leave you there until you're forced to come up for air...
I'm in love with high-octane, action packed, thrilling stories with epic heroes and mighty villains. I want suspense, I want characters with depth who I really care what happens to them, and who I will both love and hate. I love fantasy and science fiction and I want both in the same story. I want pace, and more pace, and yet time for emotional intimacy and heart-rending scenes.
This is what I dedicate myself to writing - and why - because I love it
May 11, 2025
Once more, Graeme Rodaughan captivates the audience with his opening chapter, offering a glimpse into Chloe Armitage's past that reveals the pivotal moments of her transformation. Due to the curse Jean Philippe Allemande placed upon Chloe, it ensured Crane was protected if she were to combat him; she couldn’t fight Crane and win. This insight into her motivations showcases the strength of her determination. While Chloe is an unlikeable character, her backstory gives some insight into the makeup of her character, especially why she hates Crane.
The narrative then continues from the finale of the 2nd installment, where Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion, Chloe and Marcus Drake, have abducted Ramin Kain the head of the Order of Thoth. It is at this point that we learn that the United Kingdom had its own members of the Order of Thoth; the "Walker Force Team." (Richard Walker-Force Leader; Joan Lewis-Loremaster; Mary Turner; David Wilkinson; Karen Chapman; David Khan; James Cox; Michael (Mikey) Wilson; and Francine (Frannie) Parker.)
Pursued by the Miromar team, with the still unknown Red Empire spy "Raven" in their midst, Chloe must try to prevent them from joining forces with the Walker team by utilizing James Haley and the UK branch of Shadowstone, led by Gordon Heathmont. This intervention results in the capture of one of the Miromar team. As to the identity of the "Raven," Rodaughan has been very secretive, but maybe he slipped up in the backstory of Raven, giving a slight clue to readers, which had me re-reading Book 2's introduction to Miromar team characters, or is it a misdirection?
To gain truthful knowledge from Ramin Kain, Chloe needs to make Kain give truthful answers, and how she does this is Rodaughan's first twist in the novel. As the Walker force try to locate Ramin Kain's location, a manor house just outside Whitby (nice reference to Whitby-the landing spot for Dracula in the UK), Chloe, Drake, and Tamsah al Ramil, "the Sand Crocodile," with his Red Empire team, lie in wait for them. Thus begins the first battle. What follows is an adrenaline-fueled, non-stop action as Team Miromar fights to free their trapped colleague and make their way to join forces with Team Walker in an attempt to free Ramin Kain, and in typical Rodaughan fashion, he's not afraid to lose some of his characters.
What I truly appreciate about this series is that Graeme Rodaughan presents it in a long-forgotten serial format, reminiscent of classic storytelling. Similar to how Stephen King revived this technique in "The Green Mile," Rodaughan's approach features quick, action-packed episodes that not only captivate but also allow for significant character development alongside the progression of the narrative. The suspense and anticipation of each installment evoke a sense of nostalgia, while keeping me engaged and wanting to proceed to the next story.
Never, never, never will I serve you. I will have my freedom, and you will regret this night before you die.....Beware my fury – for I will never rest until I am free to live my own purpose and not yours.
The narrative then continues from the finale of the 2nd installment, where Agents of the Red Empire and the Vampire Dominion, Chloe and Marcus Drake, have abducted Ramin Kain the head of the Order of Thoth. It is at this point that we learn that the United Kingdom had its own members of the Order of Thoth; the "Walker Force Team." (Richard Walker-Force Leader; Joan Lewis-Loremaster; Mary Turner; David Wilkinson; Karen Chapman; David Khan; James Cox; Michael (Mikey) Wilson; and Francine (Frannie) Parker.)
Pursued by the Miromar team, with the still unknown Red Empire spy "Raven" in their midst, Chloe must try to prevent them from joining forces with the Walker team by utilizing James Haley and the UK branch of Shadowstone, led by Gordon Heathmont. This intervention results in the capture of one of the Miromar team. As to the identity of the "Raven," Rodaughan has been very secretive, but maybe he slipped up in the backstory of Raven, giving a slight clue to readers, which had me re-reading Book 2's introduction to Miromar team characters, or is it a misdirection?
To gain truthful knowledge from Ramin Kain, Chloe needs to make Kain give truthful answers, and how she does this is Rodaughan's first twist in the novel. As the Walker force try to locate Ramin Kain's location, a manor house just outside Whitby (nice reference to Whitby-the landing spot for Dracula in the UK), Chloe, Drake, and Tamsah al Ramil, "the Sand Crocodile," with his Red Empire team, lie in wait for them. Thus begins the first battle. What follows is an adrenaline-fueled, non-stop action as Team Miromar fights to free their trapped colleague and make their way to join forces with Team Walker in an attempt to free Ramin Kain, and in typical Rodaughan fashion, he's not afraid to lose some of his characters.
What I truly appreciate about this series is that Graeme Rodaughan presents it in a long-forgotten serial format, reminiscent of classic storytelling. Similar to how Stephen King revived this technique in "The Green Mile," Rodaughan's approach features quick, action-packed episodes that not only captivate but also allow for significant character development alongside the progression of the narrative. The suspense and anticipation of each installment evoke a sense of nostalgia, while keeping me engaged and wanting to proceed to the next story.
October 3, 2022
Quite an exceptional 3rd installment of the series! The story keeps getting better and better. I can't recommend this series enough!
Bravo Graeme Rodaughan!
Bravo Graeme Rodaughan!
August 12, 2022
I was expecting the 3rd book to start going down the hill because that is usually my experience with book series.
But the twist the book offers in the story line with yet another character with his own agenda makes this 3rd book a crazy ride!
I’m thrilled to experience that the series are not loosing strength!
Can’t wait to start reading the next book to see what’s this unexpected character will do.
But the twist the book offers in the story line with yet another character with his own agenda makes this 3rd book a crazy ride!
I’m thrilled to experience that the series are not loosing strength!
Can’t wait to start reading the next book to see what’s this unexpected character will do.
September 13, 2022
I can't catch my breath!
Action-packed doesn't even scratch the surface!
And then there is the staggering loss of life on all sides of this multi-faceted war!
We won't even mention the betrayal!
Action-packed doesn't even scratch the surface!
And then there is the staggering loss of life on all sides of this multi-faceted war!
We won't even mention the betrayal!
August 24, 2018
The Dragon Den is a well written book by Graeme Rodaughan. The author continues the “never ending battled” between the Vampire Dominion and the Order of Toth. The plot is one of those page turners that draws you in from the very first pages and makes it very difficult to put the book down. There are some secrets that the author is still not ready to unveil but I think we are getting closer to find out the truth. The pace of the book is perfect with lots of action that leaves you glued to the pages. There is never a time where you feel like the story is dragging out nor do you feel like the author is rushing you through the story. There are some nice fighting scenes that you can beautifully visualize thanks to the descriptive words of the author. There are also some nice twists in the story that are quite surprising and add beautifully to the story.
The author is not afraid to make some tough decisions. Some that really surprised me and I am curious to see how they will impact the series in the future. They sure had a huge impact on this book and I for one was very shocked about some of them.
Anton is a very likable and by far my favorite. There is something going on with him that we are not privy to know yet and I am curious to see what it is when we find out. I am also a fan of Peter who is a very likable character and I am curious to see how he fares in the next book. The Mirovar team in general is a great team and I am curious to see how they will handle the battle that lays ahead of them.
The author is not afraid to make some tough decisions. Some that really surprised me and I am curious to see how they will impact the series in the future. They sure had a huge impact on this book and I for one was very shocked about some of them.
Anton is a very likable and by far my favorite. There is something going on with him that we are not privy to know yet and I am curious to see what it is when we find out. I am also a fan of Peter who is a very likable character and I am curious to see how he fares in the next book. The Mirovar team in general is a great team and I am curious to see how they will handle the battle that lays ahead of them.
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