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A review by ashylibrarian
To Shape a Dragon's Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose
adventurous
challenging
emotional
slow-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? No
3.75
*Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for an eARC of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.*
I'm going to start this review by saying I am still confused as to which reading group this book falls. It is listed everywhere as an adult novel but I very much feel like it could be listed as an older YA book.
I appreciate the world-building that happened in this book. I enjoyed learning about the indigenous groups and how colonization has affected their ability to live. I also could not pass up a dragon story.
Anequs is a strong, independent, and determined character. She embraces her Nampeshiweist with excitement while also understanding what this dragon and power mean for her community. Even though the Anglish have other plans for what should happen to the Nampeshiweist, Anequs pushes for her acceptance into the Anglish dragon school and works to prove that she has more than what they expect.
This story did feel like it dragged on at certain points without much happening. I feel like it could have been a shorter book with more punchy scenes to help keep the plot moving.
Overall, this is a unique, well-done fantasy that leaves readers with much to think about.
I'm going to start this review by saying I am still confused as to which reading group this book falls. It is listed everywhere as an adult novel but I very much feel like it could be listed as an older YA book.
I appreciate the world-building that happened in this book. I enjoyed learning about the indigenous groups and how colonization has affected their ability to live. I also could not pass up a dragon story.
Anequs is a strong, independent, and determined character. She embraces her Nampeshiweist with excitement while also understanding what this dragon and power mean for her community. Even though the Anglish have other plans for what should happen to the Nampeshiweist, Anequs pushes for her acceptance into the Anglish dragon school and works to prove that she has more than what they expect.
This story did feel like it dragged on at certain points without much happening. I feel like it could have been a shorter book with more punchy scenes to help keep the plot moving.
Overall, this is a unique, well-done fantasy that leaves readers with much to think about.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Ableism, and Racism
Moderate: Violence, Genocide, and Homophobia
Minor: Death, Death of parent, and Animal death