The Bone Ships

For generations, the people of the Hundred Isles have built their formidable warships from the bones of ancient dragons known as arakeesians, using these spectacular vessels to wage an endless and brutal conflict with neighbouring nations. The bones themselves are imbued with potent, mysterious power, making the ships indomitable forces in combat. However, the dragons have long since vanished, leading to a scarcity of the vital resource and a desperate struggle for supremacy.

Then, hope and chaos erupt simultaneously when the first dragon in centuries is sighted in distant, treacherous waters. This rare and awe-inspiring creature possesses the power to shift the scales of war dramatically. Whichever nation captures the dragon will secure not only unparalleled honour and glory but also the decisive power to finally claim victory in the protracted war.

Enter Joron Twiner, a disgraced and demoted shipwife, and the ruthless and cunning Shipwife Meas Gilbryn. Together, they embark on a perilous voyage aboard the Tide Child, an ancient and creaky bone ship, filled with an equally motley crew. Their mission: to hunt, capture, or save the legendary dragon to bring about a change in their world. As they venture into unforgiving seas, they face treacherous adversaries, both known and unknown, and must grapple with their own fears, honour, and the meaning of true bravery and sacrifice.

A brilliantly imagined saga of honour, glory, and warfare, The Bone Ships starts an epic new trilogy from David Gemmell Award-nominated RJ Barker. With its vivid world-building, complex characters, and high-stakes adventure, this novel ushers readers into a rich, immersive fantasy realm filled with tantalising lore and thrilling action.

Tasha Suri, author of Empire of Sand

Peter McLean, author of Priest of Bones