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konstance's review
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I had the honour of being a beta reader for this book and I have to say - I was so pleasantly surprised by both the premise and the story. Usually, I’m all for the world building and the details of what’s happening, but having a dragon as a main character is a first for me (I never got into Eragon as a young one).
Not only is it a first for me because of it being a dragon, but such a unique one with a personality that makes me want to befriend him, hug him, and also stay a safe distance away from those epic teeth. Vakandi feels so real and unique and such a pleasant voice to listen to as he tells his stories.
Outside of that, I am a huge fan of the stories-within-the-story that show us a different perspective and even more so of stories that challenge history. In this case, we have Sisal (the main female badass character) who grew up on a certain history of her city and then Vakandi basically destroys that by telling her his version of events. Feeling that pull and switch within Sisal, that fight for finding out what really happened, was a pleasure and so realistic.
Thank you to Laura for taking on this amazing tale and learning how dragons can be more human than us.
Not only is it a first for me because of it being a dragon, but such a unique one with a personality that makes me want to befriend him, hug him, and also stay a safe distance away from those epic teeth. Vakandi feels so real and unique and such a pleasant voice to listen to as he tells his stories.
Outside of that, I am a huge fan of the stories-within-the-story that show us a different perspective and even more so of stories that challenge history. In this case, we have Sisal (the main female badass character) who grew up on a certain history of her city and then Vakandi basically destroys that by telling her his version of events. Feeling that pull and switch within Sisal, that fight for finding out what really happened, was a pleasure and so realistic.
Thank you to Laura for taking on this amazing tale and learning how dragons can be more human than us.
mikip_95's review
4.0
I received an ARC of this story. It was written very well. I liked the way it was laid out with Vakandi telling his side of the story to Sisal. I thought it was very interesting how the chapters would just start with it. I also thought it was very well paced and had a lot of meaning to it.
Some of my favorite quotes:
“There is no life without passion, without a spark of hope for another time, with a kindling of acceptance of death comes with life. For every day is unique, every day is a joy. Embrace what’s been gifted and sing the song.”
“Life is not always the beginning for someone as much as death is not an end.“
“I’ll come by and keep trying. Only one pure soul can enter.” If his heart still did not feel so heavy, he might have laughed. “Then how did you get in here?” They pointed at their bag on their back. “I have a heart of gold.” Vakandi chuckled out a puff of smoke.
Some of my favorite quotes:
“There is no life without passion, without a spark of hope for another time, with a kindling of acceptance of death comes with life. For every day is unique, every day is a joy. Embrace what’s been gifted and sing the song.”
“Life is not always the beginning for someone as much as death is not an end.“
“I’ll come by and keep trying. Only one pure soul can enter.” If his heart still did not feel so heavy, he might have laughed. “Then how did you get in here?” They pointed at their bag on their back. “I have a heart of gold.” Vakandi chuckled out a puff of smoke.
bookwyrms_shelf's review
4.0
The was a really interesting story about how a dragon formed a connection with a village for a handful of centuries. I thought it was a really cool perspective to look at, and to recognize how to learn from the past in the present. I think it would have been really cool to have a dragon to look over a town like that, but they really should have paid more attention to the wisdom he had gained over the centuries.
boba_n_books's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The Sunset Sovreign: A Dragon's Memoir is much more than just a fantasy novel. It's a lesson in how the people, the victors, who record history shape its narrative and the future.
Sisal is an adventurer who has been given the task of slaughtering Vakandi Foreldri, the dragon who has been looming over and burdening the town of Vakfored and its citizens for centuries. But, when Sisal goes to finally end Vakandi, she discovers a grumpy dragon who just wants someone to hear his side of the story. Since Vakfored were the "winners," no one has ever heard Vakandi's recounting of how he and Vakfored became rivals. Sisal promises to listen to Vakandi's story, but only if he swears to leave after telling his tale by sunset. Through Vakandi's story, Sisal learns that the Vakfored version of history is not incorrect but only one piece of the puzzle. It's up to Sisal to spread Vakandi's truth and mediate between the two parties.
In just 153 pages, the author packs so much heart in both Sisal and Vakandi. Even though the reader goes in knowing that Vakandi is going to leave at the end, it doesn't make saying goodbye to him any easier. I grew to love him and the bond he and Sisal created so much that I hoped he would be able to stay and create peace with his hatchlings.
Vakandi's character reminds me of Tairn from Fourth Wing--a tired, grumpy dad who just wants his children to behave themselves. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing history through Vakandi's eyes and learning why he did what he did. Vakandi acted through a much broader lens of a long-living being while the Vakfored made decisions based on a much shorter lifespan. Neither perspective is wrong, but they had a difficult time understanding each other.
I loved the character Mx. Konst who came in at the end to assist Vakandi and mediate between him and Vakfored. Not only did I appreciate the non-binary representation, I enjoyed reading about a character who could truly see both sides of the story and help make peace. I believe they were similar to Sisal in that way where they could have written down history and brought Vakandi and Vakfored together again, but Sisal is the one who truly followed through.
Going into this novel, I did not know what to expect, but I know that I came away with much more than I thought I would. If you're a fan of fantasy and dragons, pick up this novel! I can assure you that you won't regret it.
Thank you to the author for creating a truly beautiful and unforgettable story. I'm so glad you are sharing it with the world.
------------------------------------------------
Favorite Quotes:
Sisal is an adventurer who has been given the task of slaughtering Vakandi Foreldri, the dragon who has been looming over and burdening the town of Vakfored and its citizens for centuries. But, when Sisal goes to finally end Vakandi, she discovers a grumpy dragon who just wants someone to hear his side of the story. Since Vakfored were the "winners," no one has ever heard Vakandi's recounting of how he and Vakfored became rivals. Sisal promises to listen to Vakandi's story, but only if he swears to leave after telling his tale by sunset. Through Vakandi's story, Sisal learns that the Vakfored version of history is not incorrect but only one piece of the puzzle. It's up to Sisal to spread Vakandi's truth and mediate between the two parties.
In just 153 pages, the author packs so much heart in both Sisal and Vakandi. Even though the reader goes in knowing that Vakandi is going to leave at the end, it doesn't make saying goodbye to him any easier. I grew to love him and the bond he and Sisal created so much that I hoped he would be able to stay and create peace with his hatchlings.
Vakandi's character reminds me of Tairn from Fourth Wing--a tired, grumpy dad who just wants his children to behave themselves. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing history through Vakandi's eyes and learning why he did what he did. Vakandi acted through a much broader lens of a long-living being while the Vakfored made decisions based on a much shorter lifespan. Neither perspective is wrong, but they had a difficult time understanding each other.
I loved the character Mx. Konst who came in at the end to assist Vakandi and mediate between him and Vakfored. Not only did I appreciate the non-binary representation, I enjoyed reading about a character who could truly see both sides of the story and help make peace. I believe they were similar to Sisal in that way where they could have written down history and brought Vakandi and Vakfored together again, but Sisal is the one who truly followed through.
Going into this novel, I did not know what to expect, but I know that I came away with much more than I thought I would. If you're a fan of fantasy and dragons, pick up this novel! I can assure you that you won't regret it.
Thank you to the author for creating a truly beautiful and unforgettable story. I'm so glad you are sharing it with the world.
------------------------------------------------
Favorite Quotes:
Even time erodes away the beauty of a moment.
Like an hourglass starting, he could only tell the entire beginning, hardly any of the middle, and the whole ending. Sisal had to know his end for her to start the new beginning for Vakfored.
He hated winter, but knew it served a purpose. Without the changing seasons, the land would not be what it was with its hills and mountains. It would be flat and boring. Magic had its own balance, even if it was bitter instead of warm.
He was a dragon of fire and life, not death.
Believing its words, though, meant her great-grandparents lied about the dragon's actions a hundred years ago. Their story passed down to her grandparents, parents, and then her. They ingrained it in her blood.
Once Vakandi was gone, she would take their history back.
'It's a song that reminds us to avoid repeating history, but to embrace the cycle of life. To accept the darkest nights as much as the sunniest day.'
'Avoid repeating, but let the cycle repeat? That makes no sense.'
'It's why we study the past, to strive for a better future. The Vakfored created this song after teaching me how to embrace death magic. All knowledge is power.'
'What does Vakfored mean in the old tongue?'
'It means you are my hatchlings. My children.'
He was not strong; he was distracting her from her truth.
There was a saying that if you said the same thing a thousand times, maybe it was not the listener who was not learning, but the speaker.
This is how the people always lived, destruction and greed of anything more powerful than them. They hated the idea of being weak.
She wanted to write the story he told. To keep the words the same as he had told them, without the influence of her as a narrator changing them. ... He had to tell her the full, truthful story. He stretched the truth that it became confusing. Or was it her research and what her family taught her that made his truth feel clouded?
History should always tell every side of the story.
School taught her Vakfored's side, for they were the victors. Only Vakandi Foreldri alone could tell his side.
'I don't want a wall. It forces our city to be contained. ... Creativity is not something you hold back.'
'You paint on a canvas and its beauty is eternal in that small rectangular shape. No one touches it, and you hang it up to protect it in a frame. Create a wall that is your frame.'
'I'm sorry. I know my words mean nothing, and I wish I could have been stronger, could have prepared you more. That day I will never forget.'
'You could have said sorry a thousand times by now. You should have. ... Stop sulking and do something. At least saying sorry would have been an action. Something. Instead, you vanished into this cave and did nothing but glower down at the people below you.'
The stories her grandparents told her were not wrong, but they were only on one side of the fire.
'The War of Beasts was almost a hundred years ago. People have seen you flying out. Did you seriously choose this to make us hate you?'
'I needed to learn how to let go, and you hating me made it easier.'
'It's up to you to tell the stories.'
'We should have said it before, but thank you for everything.'
...
'I will always lover my Vakfored. ... Thank you for hearing my apology.'
She would make sure Vakfored learned the truth and loved Vakandi for all he did. Forgive him for the misunderstanding and create a new future for Vakfored.
Content Warnings
Graphic: War and Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Violence and Death
alookinside's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
"The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir" by C. D. Houck is a captivating and poignant exploration of life, love, and sacrifice as seen through the eyes of an ancient dragon, Vakandi. Set against the backdrop of the evolving city of Vakfored, this novel takes readers on a mesmerizing journey spanning a millennium.
Houck's storytelling prowess shines as the narrative unfolds through the eyes of Vakandi, a guardian of the city who has witnessed its transformation from humble beginnings to a flourishing hub of art and magic. The author masterfully weaves a tale of Vakandi's unwavering dedication to protect the city, showcasing his role as a silent sentinel against the backdrop of monsters, floods, and wars.
However, what sets this novel apart is its exploration of the inevitable passage of time and the changing desires of the city's inhabitants. Vakandi's impending demise at the hands of an assassin serves as the catalyst for a profound reflection on life's purpose and the enduring power of love. Through richly crafted dialogue, the dragon imparts his wisdom and affection for the people he has safeguarded for centuries, creating a touching and emotionally resonant experience for readers.
Houck's prose is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into Vakandi's world with vivid descriptions and a deep sense of atmosphere. The book expertly balances moments of introspection with action, keeping the narrative engaging and thought-provoking throughout.
"The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir" is a remarkable work of fiction that delves into themes of mortality, legacy, and the profound connection between beings. C. D. Houck's storytelling is a testament to the enduring power of literature to provoke contemplation and evoke deep emotions. This novel is not just a dragon's tale; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling itself.
Houck's storytelling prowess shines as the narrative unfolds through the eyes of Vakandi, a guardian of the city who has witnessed its transformation from humble beginnings to a flourishing hub of art and magic. The author masterfully weaves a tale of Vakandi's unwavering dedication to protect the city, showcasing his role as a silent sentinel against the backdrop of monsters, floods, and wars.
However, what sets this novel apart is its exploration of the inevitable passage of time and the changing desires of the city's inhabitants. Vakandi's impending demise at the hands of an assassin serves as the catalyst for a profound reflection on life's purpose and the enduring power of love. Through richly crafted dialogue, the dragon imparts his wisdom and affection for the people he has safeguarded for centuries, creating a touching and emotionally resonant experience for readers.
Houck's prose is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into Vakandi's world with vivid descriptions and a deep sense of atmosphere. The book expertly balances moments of introspection with action, keeping the narrative engaging and thought-provoking throughout.
"The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir" is a remarkable work of fiction that delves into themes of mortality, legacy, and the profound connection between beings. C. D. Houck's storytelling is a testament to the enduring power of literature to provoke contemplation and evoke deep emotions. This novel is not just a dragon's tale; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling itself.
bread_loaf_star's review
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
A truly interesting read! A story told from the perspective of a dragon. You might be a bit hesitant at first, maybe sceptical, but it was beautifully executed. This is a great book to get started with, when wanting to read more books about dragons. The stance, that dragons are evil (perspective from childhood stories) is completely reversed, giving dragons a better connotation. This book gave me a cozy feeling, likeable characters and stunning magic.
Note: I received this as an ARC and this is my genuine, unbiased opinion!
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