Review: The Sunset Sovereign by Laura Huie
Blurb:
When a dragon finds an assassin sneaking into his lair, he tells her of his life's work and his soon to be final chapter.
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For the past thousand years, the dragon Vakandi has watched the people of Vakfored grow from a wandering band of refugees to a glorious city of art and magic. Under his protection, the city has survived monsters, floods, and wars all without building an army, dam, or even a wall. But time changes everything and now the citizens of his beloved city want him dead.
Vakandi spends his last day telling his assassin why he loves them, and why it's his time to die.
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Readers who love dragons will get their fill with the most lovable dragon. A quick standalone fantasy read that will entertain those who love a bit of soup with their story.
Review:
"The Sunset Sovereign" by Laura Huie is a delightful gem in the realm of cozy fantasy, that shows a refreshing take on the dragon mythos through the lens of a wise and ancient creature.
This novel, which I had the pleasure of reading for the SPFBO 10, stands out not just for its engaging story but for its introspective and heartfelt portrayal of a dragon’s relationship with the city he helped to build.
The story centers around a dragon who, many years ago, took it upon himself to guide and protect a group of refugees, helping them establish a city that would grow into a hub of wealth and culture.
This dragon, whose perspective we follow, becomes an unexpectedly charming and relatable narrator, despite his otherworldly nature. His recounting of the city's history and his evolving role within it is both deeply personal and rich with the kind of wisdom that only centuries of life can bestow.
Huie does an excellent job of balancing the dragon's grandeur with moments of pettiness and humor, making him a complex and endearing character. The novel’s narrative structure—unfolding through the dragon’s dialogue with an assassin sent to kill him—adds a layer of tension and intimacy, as he seeks to explain his side of the story. This setup allows for a gradual reveal of the city’s transformation and the shifting perceptions of its inhabitants towards their once-revered protector.
One of the most striking aspects of "The Sunset Sovereign" is its thematic depth. The novel explores the nuances of guardianship, the burden of expectations, and the bittersweet nature of letting go. The dragon, who serves as both protector and founder of the city, sees its inhabitants as his hatchlings. This paternal relationship is fraught with internal conflict as he grapples with the urge to shield them from harm while acknowledging their burgeoning desire for autonomy. His struggle is a poignant reflection of the complexities inherent in human relationships, particularly the parental instinct to safeguard one's children against the world’s dangers contrasted with the painful necessity of allowing them to grow, make mistakes, and ultimately forge their own paths. The dragon’s journey is emblematic of the universal parental experience: the delicate balance between nurturing and letting go, supporting and stepping back. This dynamic is rendered with such emotional resonance that it becomes a mirror for readers to examine their own familial bonds. The narrative deftly portrays the evolving relationship between the dragon and the city, illustrating how parental love, no matter how well-intentioned, can sometimes stifle growth and how true care often requires the courage to step aside. This theme of parenthood is enriched by the dragon’s personal reflections and the poignant moments of realization that his role as a guardian is both a gift and a burden, ultimately underscoring the painful beauty of watching those we care for seek their own destinies.
The ending of the book, without giving too much away, is both bittersweet and deeply moving. It offers a reflective and poignant conclusion that underscores the themes of growth, change, and the inevitable passage of time. The dragon’s journey from a revered founder to a perceived tyrant is a powerful commentary on how roles and relationships evolve over time, often leading to misunderstandings and unintended consequences.
Another compelling aspect of "The Sunset Sovereign" is the character of the female warrior, who encapsulates the journey of all the citizens from distrust to understanding. Initially tasked with assassinating the dragon she sees as a tyrant, her interactions with him lead to a profound shift in perspective. Her journey mirrors the evolution of the city's relationship with its guardian, transitioning from suspicion and fear to mutual respect and comprehension. This dynamic also parallels the complex relationships between parents and children, where initial rebellion and resistance give way to empathy and appreciation. The warrior's transformation underscores the novel's deeper themes of growth, acceptance, and the delicate balance of power and love in any relationship. Her character arc is not just a personal evolution but a reflection of the collective journey of the city’s inhabitants.
Overall, "The Sunset Sovereign" is a very well written, atmospheric tale that skillfully blends the fantastical with the deeply human. Its short length works to its advantage, keeping the story tight and impactful without overstaying its welcome.
Laura Huie’s storytelling is poetic and evocative, ensuring that every word serves a purpose and enhances the narrative. This brevity allows the plot to remain focused and the emotional beats to hit with greater force, making the novel a standout in the cozy fantasy genre. The concise format also ensures that readers remain fully engaged, with no extraneous details to detract from the core themes and character development.
Whether you are a fan of dragons, heartfelt narratives, or simply a good story well told, this book is a must-read. The economy of words in "The Sunset Sovereign" means that each scene is meticulously crafted, offering a rich, immersive experience that lingers long after the final page. I highly recommend it and look forward to more works from this talented author.
