The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon’s Memoir

In this melancholy fantasy, Huie (the Thedre trilogy) unspools a dragon’s centuries-long life story. Young warrior Sisal grew up hearing her grandparents’ tales of the monstrous red dragon that has been oppressing the town of Vakfored, hoarding precious materials and devouring any who disobey. Now Sisal is the chosen hero to slay the beast—but when she enters the dragon’s cave, he politely introduces himself as Vakandi Foreldri, once known as Life Giver by the people of Vakfored. He promises to “leave Vakfored alone if you listen to my story.” The dragon goes on to chronicle how, 800 years prior, he saved a group of humans, orcs, and dwarves from wolves and led them to a safe place to start a village. Over the centuries, he protected the townsfolk from monsters and foreign invaders. Vakfored came to excel in art, music, and magic, but always relied on Vakandi for protection, something the dragon realized too late could bring about the town’s downfall. He knew he had to teach the townsfolk to defend themselves, even if it meant they turned on him. It’s a promising premise, and though the prose is a bit clunky, Huie imbues Vakandi’s backstory with a good mix of sorrow and affection on the way to a heartfelt conclusion. This poignant tale is sure to please dragon lovers. (Self-published)