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A Language Of Dragons by S.F. Williamson
S.F. Williamson’s debut young adult novel was an addictive read. A dark academia fantasy, where dragon and humans coexist in a world on the brink of war.
It’s 1923 and the peace agreement between Prime Minister Wyvernmire and the British Dragon Queen is in place. Society has been classified into three classes, with a vast difference in privileges. The Human-Dragon Coalition, aka the rebels, are fighting for fair rights for humans and dragons alike. Blood will be shed.
Seventeen-year-old Vivien has been shielded from the civil unrest. She is focused on her linguistics studies with the aim to be the youngest dragonic translator and keep her second class status.
Life is turned upside down when her parents are accused of being rebels. Trying to save them from the death penalty, Viv unwittingly triggers the onset of war. She is coerced by the government to do research work at a remote facility with other young criminals. Here she meets Atlas, a young man who raises uncomfortable questions about the status quo. Soon it is a race against time to save their families and stay alive as the group gets pitted against each other.
With a slow burn romance, heartbreaking moments, action and ethical conundrums, this is a wonderful book for both young adults and adults. I am desperate to read the next instalment. Be aware that there is violence and elements of torture for younger readers.
by Abby Soffe
The Last Light Over Olso by Alix Rickloff
This historical novel displays in spades all that is fine about the genre. It’s largely about a real, but largely forgotten champion of humanity, combined with just the right amount of spice to jazz it up into an extremely readable offering. It could well become a bestseller.
The story is set in Norway and Sweden revolving around US Minister Daisy Harriman and her wayward, infuriating, unpredictable but somehow endearing goddaughter, as they navigate the unfolding German occupation during World War II.
Both are loyal to their own country, ones they love and the Norwegian people, but have very different ways of showing their bravery and resilience as they make their escape north, trying to help both government and royalty.
I especially admire the wordsmithing and the clever use of sparse language. It’s filled with both depth and insight and helps explain why, against the odds, an elderly but formidable woman was the right person for this task. The challenges both personal, private, small and large would be overwhelming to most, but not to our intrepid heroines.
The story travels at an enjoyable speed and is engrossing right to its satisfying conclusion.
By Barbara Leslie
