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Sir Callie #2
Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost
The battle is won, but the war is far from over. In this thrilling sequel, a twelve-year-old nonbinary hopeful knight fights for the heart of their kingdom in a magical medieval world filled with dragons, shape-shifters, and witches.
Thanks to Callie and their friends, Helston seems to be changing for the better: Boys are allowed to explore their magic, and girls are permitted to train as warriors. Callie is an official Helston page, Willow in on track to become king, and Elowen and Edwyn are finally safe and free of their father. Everything is...perfect.
Except it isn't.
Not in Helston, where every step forward is accompanied by a storm of opposition. Even Queen Ewella and Sir Nick are struggling against the wave of fear and anti-magical sentiment growing daily, while the encroaching threat from across the bridge looms.
Callie isn't foolish; they notice the suspicious glances thrown Neal's way and hear the doubtful murmurs following Willow. They know what people think about them, too. Tolerance is not the same as acceptance, and when the fragile peace finally shatters, Callie and their friends have no choice but to leave their home and run.
On the other side of the bridge, old secrets are revealed and new allegiances are formed that will throw into question everything Callie thought they knew about their world. Including what it means to be a hero.
Thanks to Callie and their friends, Helston seems to be changing for the better: Boys are allowed to explore their magic, and girls are permitted to train as warriors. Callie is an official Helston page, Willow in on track to become king, and Elowen and Edwyn are finally safe and free of their father. Everything is...perfect.
Except it isn't.
Not in Helston, where every step forward is accompanied by a storm of opposition. Even Queen Ewella and Sir Nick are struggling against the wave of fear and anti-magical sentiment growing daily, while the encroaching threat from across the bridge looms.
Callie isn't foolish; they notice the suspicious glances thrown Neal's way and hear the doubtful murmurs following Willow. They know what people think about them, too. Tolerance is not the same as acceptance, and when the fragile peace finally shatters, Callie and their friends have no choice but to leave their home and run.
On the other side of the bridge, old secrets are revealed and new allegiances are formed that will throw into question everything Callie thought they knew about their world. Including what it means to be a hero.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published November 7, 2023
22 people are currently reading
3680 people want to read
About the author
Esme Symes-Smith
4 books198 followersAfter cutting their teeth on a steady diet of fanfiction in the South-West of England, Esme Symes-Smith wandered north to Wales for their degree in Literature and Creative Writing then promptly migrated to Missouri after meeting their wife on Tumblr.
Esme has been a ghost-writer, an editor, a frozen-yogurt seller, a caffeine dealer, and now wrangles pre-schoolers for a living.
They are nonbinary and have a severe tea problem.
SIR CALLIE AND THE CHAMPIONS OF HELSTON is their debut middle-grade novel, slated for Fall 2022 with the launch of Penguin Random House's new imprint, Labyrinth Road, with a second book in the series coming later.
Esme has been a ghost-writer, an editor, a frozen-yogurt seller, a caffeine dealer, and now wrangles pre-schoolers for a living.
They are nonbinary and have a severe tea problem.
SIR CALLIE AND THE CHAMPIONS OF HELSTON is their debut middle-grade novel, slated for Fall 2022 with the launch of Penguin Random House's new imprint, Labyrinth Road, with a second book in the series coming later.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
August 17, 2025
Favourite books of 2023
– May: Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost by Esme Symes-Smith.
"I don’t want to be invisible or silent. It wasn’t right, what they did to me, and I am not going to let my fear silence me anymore."
In Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston, twelve-year-old Callie earnt their place as a nonbinary squire on the path to knighthood, shoulder to shoulder alongside gentle Prince Willow, sorceress Elowyn, and consummate survivor Edwyn, the fierce children of the former Lord Chancellor. Together with Sir Nick and Neal, the four friends try to settle down and recover. But Helston isn't home. Not for any of them, including Callie's dads, and it soon becomes apparent their existence is not welcome, and will never be accepted by the powers that be. As anti-magic sentiment rises, Callie struggles to reconcile their ideal of Helston with the intolerant reality. When Elowyn and Edywn fall prey to horrific violence at the hands of the authorities, Callie is forced to question every assumption keeping their courage steady on its foundations. Is Dumoor the true enemy? Are dragons as evil as they have always been told? And what makes a true hero?
rep: non-binary MC; ; implied secondary character; secondary and tertiary characters who use neopronouns; gay parents; LGBTQIAP+ tertiary characters.
cw: child abuse; trauma; war violence; incarceration; false imprisonment; implied torture; deadnaming; misgendering; injury; other content warnings provided by author.
Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston was my best book of 2022, and even though it's not published until December, I'd put money on Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost being guaranteed to stake its claim to my favourite read of 2023. First, I'll say I'm overjoyed that there are another two books in the pipeline. With its rich characterisation and impressive writing quality, this is the kind of series that has the potential to run and run - and with that ending ... well. It's the exquisite pain only someone reading the series as it is published as opposed to coming to it years later can experience.
This second instalment is significantly darker than the first, with themes involving child abuse; the
aftermath of a campaign of psychological torture and trauma; child soldiers; not to mention clear yet deft parallels with a society growing ever more intolerant and inflexible when faced with anyone who deviates from the supposed norm. There were times in the first half of the book where I struggled with Edwyn's storyline in particular, but all the children deal with so much, and it can get difficult knowing they're so young. Having said that, the author handles all these complex themes and mature content with sensitivity, grace, and compassion that brings the healing comfort of allowing their readers to experience their own grief and process it a little more through the eyes and warm hearts of these beautiful characters.
Certain books just hit you hard, don't they? I knew when I first read the Champions of Helston I'd found a series that would be personally important to me, and not only to me, but to the nine- or ten-year-old wandering the library in search of one book - one single character - I could relate to in the way I do to every. single. one. of these in the Sir Callie books. There's a particular scene where Callie and their friends are . If little me could have read this book back then, how much good could it have done for my mental health and wellbeing? How many kids are going to be able to read this book and see themselves in Callie or Willow or Elowyn or Edwyn or Teo and recognise themselves as whole and unbroken? This is such a fundamentally important series and it holds a special place in my heart.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review while waiting for my own copy to arrive in December.
"I don’t want to be invisible or silent. It wasn’t right, what they did to me, and I am not going to let my fear silence me anymore."
In Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston, twelve-year-old Callie earnt their place as a nonbinary squire on the path to knighthood, shoulder to shoulder alongside gentle Prince Willow, sorceress Elowyn, and consummate survivor Edwyn, the fierce children of the former Lord Chancellor. Together with Sir Nick and Neal, the four friends try to settle down and recover. But Helston isn't home. Not for any of them, including Callie's dads, and it soon becomes apparent their existence is not welcome, and will never be accepted by the powers that be. As anti-magic sentiment rises, Callie struggles to reconcile their ideal of Helston with the intolerant reality. When Elowyn and Edywn fall prey to horrific violence at the hands of the authorities, Callie is forced to question every assumption keeping their courage steady on its foundations. Is Dumoor the true enemy? Are dragons as evil as they have always been told? And what makes a true hero?
rep: non-binary MC; ; implied secondary character; secondary and tertiary characters who use neopronouns; gay parents; LGBTQIAP+ tertiary characters.
cw: child abuse; trauma; war violence; incarceration; false imprisonment; implied torture; deadnaming; misgendering; injury; other content warnings provided by author.
Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston was my best book of 2022, and even though it's not published until December, I'd put money on Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost being guaranteed to stake its claim to my favourite read of 2023. First, I'll say I'm overjoyed that there are another two books in the pipeline. With its rich characterisation and impressive writing quality, this is the kind of series that has the potential to run and run - and with that ending ... well. It's the exquisite pain only someone reading the series as it is published as opposed to coming to it years later can experience.
This second instalment is significantly darker than the first, with themes involving child abuse; the
aftermath of a campaign of psychological torture and trauma; child soldiers; not to mention clear yet deft parallels with a society growing ever more intolerant and inflexible when faced with anyone who deviates from the supposed norm. There were times in the first half of the book where I struggled with Edwyn's storyline in particular, but all the children deal with so much, and it can get difficult knowing they're so young. Having said that, the author handles all these complex themes and mature content with sensitivity, grace, and compassion that brings the healing comfort of allowing their readers to experience their own grief and process it a little more through the eyes and warm hearts of these beautiful characters.
Certain books just hit you hard, don't they? I knew when I first read the Champions of Helston I'd found a series that would be personally important to me, and not only to me, but to the nine- or ten-year-old wandering the library in search of one book - one single character - I could relate to in the way I do to every. single. one. of these in the Sir Callie books. There's a particular scene where Callie and their friends are . If little me could have read this book back then, how much good could it have done for my mental health and wellbeing? How many kids are going to be able to read this book and see themselves in Callie or Willow or Elowyn or Edwyn or Teo and recognise themselves as whole and unbroken? This is such a fundamentally important series and it holds a special place in my heart.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review while waiting for my own copy to arrive in December.
February 28, 2024
Words cannot express how amazing and impactful this book was. I went into it not remembering much about the first one and being confused, but after reading about 100 pages, I was hooked. This book was inspiring, sad, powerful, stressful, impactful, and so much more. I learned about some new pronouns, and got to read about relationships changing and growing. This book touches on tougher topics, but it is worth the read.
TBH after finishing the book, I sat in my bed sobbing for almost 5 minutes, so be aware this book could trigger some emotion. This book is amazing at giving perspective of how a young person is brought up with certain beliefs and are told things about the world, but when they go out into the world, their perspective changes. They have to decide for themselves what side they choose to be on and whether they are willing to let their opinions on things change.
Overall this book was amazing and is a must read! It is a fantasy book that touches on current topics, such as pronouns and mental health issues.
5 stars!!!
TBH after finishing the book, I sat in my bed sobbing for almost 5 minutes, so be aware this book could trigger some emotion. This book is amazing at giving perspective of how a young person is brought up with certain beliefs and are told things about the world, but when they go out into the world, their perspective changes. They have to decide for themselves what side they choose to be on and whether they are willing to let their opinions on things change.
Overall this book was amazing and is a must read! It is a fantasy book that touches on current topics, such as pronouns and mental health issues.
5 stars!!!
March 3, 2024
OMFG. I didn't think Sir Callie could level up in book two, but I was so wrong and unprepared. I feel like it's a crime now to have to wait for book three. :(
September 30, 2024
THEY SAID IT WAS A HAPPY BOOK. THEY LIED. ain't this for middle graders cos this has NO RIGHT to break my heart like it did 😭😭😭and the next book is out next month 😢woe is me
October 16, 2022
I HAVE READ IT AND IT WILL HURT YOU OUCH MY FEELINGS BUT IT IS VERY VERY GOOD
June 17, 2024
This lived up to the hype of book one! It sets up the conflict nicely, dives into how each side has its own story and no one believes themselves the villain, keeps exploring themes of gender, gender roles, unfair societal expectations, being marginalised, adults with good intentions messing up, healing from abuse, big feelings (rage, guilt, confusion, and others!) etc. It gets pretty dark! Edwyn is still easily my favourite character and I loved that his storyline keeps exploring PTSD from the abuse he went through.
I really enjoyed how this explored that getting rid of one bad guy isn't necessarily enough to change a society set in its ways.
Anyway I really love that series and am excited for book 3.
I really enjoyed how this explored that getting rid of one bad guy isn't necessarily enough to change a society set in its ways.
Anyway I really love that series and am excited for book 3.
January 22, 2024
it’s 2am and i’ve just finished this book and WHAT DO YOU MEAN I HAVE TO WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE. THAT ENDING WAS CRUELLLLLL
February 17, 2025
⚔️🔥🏰🐉𝚂𝚒𝚛 𝙲𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙳𝚛𝚊𝚐𝚘𝚗'𝚜 𝚁𝚘𝚘𝚜𝚝 🐲🔥⚔️
Helston has begun to change: girls can train as warriors, and boys can learn magic. With every step forward for Callie and their friends, there are always those in opposition pushing against change. As tension brews between Helston and Dumoor, the start of a war seems inevitable. Dead soldiers return home with few survivors, and this time they have a hostage. Willow suffers under the expectations of his people, as his mother hopes to crown him king, and those of Helston slander his name if he doesn't meet their expectations of how a boy should be. The adults in Callie's life constantly tell them to stay out of it, but as Callie watches their dream fall, they realize this is not the kingdom they dreamed of fighting for. When Callie, Willow, Edwyn, and Elowen's lives are put in danger, they decide to flee the place they tried so desperately to change. Leaving everything they once knew is no easy feat, and the four soon find that Dumoor and its people are different from what they've been taught. Caught between a place Callie was starting to call home and a place where they feel they might truly belong, between a dream they used to have and a reality that forces them to face the truth, each one of Callie's friends will have to choose a side.
"Knowledge is the greatest weapon against prejudice."
-Elowen
Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost is a complex story about friendship, hidden truths, loyalty, and healing from a society that denied who Callie, Willow, Elowen, and Edwyn truly are. Compared to the previous volume, this story delves deeper into complex themes. Esme Symes-Smith writes a beautiful and heartbreaking fantasy story filled with real-world problems that reflect the struggles many still face in our world today. For me, this story means a lot. It's a fantasy story that transports the reader to another world while also rooting itself in its ability to have both a commentary on the situation within the book and the problems within our own world. Reading this story and being around Callie, Edwyn, Willow, and Elowen brought me joy as I laughed and nearly cried several times while reading.
Callie dreamed of being a knight of Helston, but they soon realized that they were unhappy. Despite the changes in Helston, it still doesn't feel like enough. Callie and Willow continue to put faith in the people of Helston, hoping that change can be made in this society. But progress is slow, and every step forward is destroyed too quickly. Elowen has abandoned the place that never felt like home and harbors a deep hatred against the people of Helston. Willow is to inherit the ruling Helston, a place that denies those who are different and seeks to enforce strict gender roles and stereotypes. In this place, Willow, Callie, Elowen, and Edwyn don't feel truly seen.
As they flee from the place they once wished they could truly be home, they go on a journey that changes their perspective on things. Helston will always be a place that Callie hopes can change, a place that still has good people within it. It is also a place that has been feeding propaganda to the people. Callie's eyes are opened as they enter a place where everyone is accepted for who they are. It seems too good to be true. For Callie, Edwyn, Elowen, and Willow, the trauma they have causes them to be suspicious and wary. Watching them find a loving and welcoming community was amazing. Willow and Callie learning about different labels and terms and finding out that there are more people like them had my heart❤️!
I love how the different sides are explored. Callie has lived in Helston and seen how some people can show kindness. Callie also sees the cruelty and prejudice held against anyone who is different, especially those who don't fit the gender roles Helston has and those who are magical. Alternatively, Callie has witnessed the dead soldiers that return home on horses who have died at the hands of those in Dumoor. Conflict like this is complicated, but Callie and their friends are divided. Some of them believe they can spread hope and help both places, while others believe that choosing a side is necessary. Watching Callie and the others struggle with the truths presented to them while they learn to extricate themselves from their own inner prejudices taught to them throughout their entire lives was interesting.
My favorite part of the story is the cast of characters. In this book, there are 🌟d r a g o n s🌟! Dragons who neopronouns, something I've rarely seen in books but loved to learn more about. Teo was such a courageous character. I love xem and I can't wait to learn more about xem in future books. Xe is such a positive and patient presence in Callie's life. I loved watching Callie grow and learn more. Neal and Callie's Papa (Sir Nick) had such amazing love and devotion to their children I loved their relationship.
Callie was a character who experienced a lot throughout this story. Despite all the things they go through, they still remain passionate and brave while also growing. As things become more complicated, Callie remains true to their beliefs. Their relationship with Elowen was everything. On that note, Elowen was a character who added an interesting perspective. She was amazing. She was brave, resilient, and fierce. Unlike Callie, she was set on her own beliefs, and the tension between the two provided a realistic and emotional conflict in the story. Willow is one of my favorite characters in this series. He is sweet and so forgiving. I just wanted to protect him from the cruel people who sought to tell him who he was didn't matter. I loved that he was embracing his true self in this novel. Then there was Edwyn, a character who was also one of my favorites. I have never seen trauma portrayed to this extent in most books, and I loved that the author dug deeper than just what trauma might be at the surface level.
This scene hit me hard in the emotions:
The found family in this book was the best I've seen. They didn't only have a strong friendship, but it felt as if there was a connection between them to the point where each understood each other's souls deeply. The way they came together to comfort each other and each heal from their own trauma was beautiful. I feel lucky to have this series and these characters as a part of my childhood, and I can't wait to read volume 3!
☑️PLOT
☑️PLOT TWISTS
☑️CHARACTERS
This scene was so good:💕
Helston has begun to change: girls can train as warriors, and boys can learn magic. With every step forward for Callie and their friends, there are always those in opposition pushing against change. As tension brews between Helston and Dumoor, the start of a war seems inevitable. Dead soldiers return home with few survivors, and this time they have a hostage. Willow suffers under the expectations of his people, as his mother hopes to crown him king, and those of Helston slander his name if he doesn't meet their expectations of how a boy should be. The adults in Callie's life constantly tell them to stay out of it, but as Callie watches their dream fall, they realize this is not the kingdom they dreamed of fighting for. When Callie, Willow, Edwyn, and Elowen's lives are put in danger, they decide to flee the place they tried so desperately to change. Leaving everything they once knew is no easy feat, and the four soon find that Dumoor and its people are different from what they've been taught. Caught between a place Callie was starting to call home and a place where they feel they might truly belong, between a dream they used to have and a reality that forces them to face the truth, each one of Callie's friends will have to choose a side.
"Knowledge is the greatest weapon against prejudice."
-Elowen
Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost is a complex story about friendship, hidden truths, loyalty, and healing from a society that denied who Callie, Willow, Elowen, and Edwyn truly are. Compared to the previous volume, this story delves deeper into complex themes. Esme Symes-Smith writes a beautiful and heartbreaking fantasy story filled with real-world problems that reflect the struggles many still face in our world today. For me, this story means a lot. It's a fantasy story that transports the reader to another world while also rooting itself in its ability to have both a commentary on the situation within the book and the problems within our own world. Reading this story and being around Callie, Edwyn, Willow, and Elowen brought me joy as I laughed and nearly cried several times while reading.
Callie dreamed of being a knight of Helston, but they soon realized that they were unhappy. Despite the changes in Helston, it still doesn't feel like enough. Callie and Willow continue to put faith in the people of Helston, hoping that change can be made in this society. But progress is slow, and every step forward is destroyed too quickly. Elowen has abandoned the place that never felt like home and harbors a deep hatred against the people of Helston. Willow is to inherit the ruling Helston, a place that denies those who are different and seeks to enforce strict gender roles and stereotypes. In this place, Willow, Callie, Elowen, and Edwyn don't feel truly seen.
As they flee from the place they once wished they could truly be home, they go on a journey that changes their perspective on things. Helston will always be a place that Callie hopes can change, a place that still has good people within it. It is also a place that has been feeding propaganda to the people. Callie's eyes are opened as they enter a place where everyone is accepted for who they are. It seems too good to be true. For Callie, Edwyn, Elowen, and Willow, the trauma they have causes them to be suspicious and wary. Watching them find a loving and welcoming community was amazing. Willow and Callie learning about different labels and terms and finding out that there are more people like them had my heart❤️!
I love how the different sides are explored. Callie has lived in Helston and seen how some people can show kindness. Callie also sees the cruelty and prejudice held against anyone who is different, especially those who don't fit the gender roles Helston has and those who are magical. Alternatively, Callie has witnessed the dead soldiers that return home on horses who have died at the hands of those in Dumoor. Conflict like this is complicated, but Callie and their friends are divided. Some of them believe they can spread hope and help both places, while others believe that choosing a side is necessary. Watching Callie and the others struggle with the truths presented to them while they learn to extricate themselves from their own inner prejudices taught to them throughout their entire lives was interesting.
My favorite part of the story is the cast of characters. In this book, there are 🌟d r a g o n s🌟! Dragons who neopronouns, something I've rarely seen in books but loved to learn more about. Teo was such a courageous character. I love xem and I can't wait to learn more about xem in future books. Xe is such a positive and patient presence in Callie's life. I loved watching Callie grow and learn more. Neal and Callie's Papa (Sir Nick) had such amazing love and devotion to their children I loved their relationship.
Callie was a character who experienced a lot throughout this story. Despite all the things they go through, they still remain passionate and brave while also growing. As things become more complicated, Callie remains true to their beliefs. Their relationship with Elowen was everything. On that note, Elowen was a character who added an interesting perspective. She was amazing. She was brave, resilient, and fierce. Unlike Callie, she was set on her own beliefs, and the tension between the two provided a realistic and emotional conflict in the story. Willow is one of my favorite characters in this series. He is sweet and so forgiving. I just wanted to protect him from the cruel people who sought to tell him who he was didn't matter. I loved that he was embracing his true self in this novel. Then there was Edwyn, a character who was also one of my favorites. I have never seen trauma portrayed to this extent in most books, and I loved that the author dug deeper than just what trauma might be at the surface level.
This scene hit me hard in the emotions:
The found family in this book was the best I've seen. They didn't only have a strong friendship, but it felt as if there was a connection between them to the point where each understood each other's souls deeply. The way they came together to comfort each other and each heal from their own trauma was beautiful. I feel lucky to have this series and these characters as a part of my childhood, and I can't wait to read volume 3!
☑️PLOT
☑️PLOT TWISTS
☑️CHARACTERS
This scene was so good:💕
January 23, 2025
I know I’m a little late to the part, but.....
OMIGOD.
Okay, so this book...
Wow. Just... wow.
It's much darker than the Champions of Helston. But I appreciate that. As a kid about Callie's age, it's nice to know people recognize us and our pain. I definitely FELT second-hand pain from Callie getting called a girl. Exploring part of Edwyn's trauma was—mwah—chef's kiss. The pool thingy was actually pretty cool.
I absolutely loved The Roost!!! The dragons and others are so fun! I absolutely love Teo,, if you’re wondering who my favorite dragon is. Xe is so fun! Of course, Edwyn is number one. Always. Since book one. Of course I don't remember her name though I literally just finished it, but the person who uses she/they pronouns and if I remember correctly is a poc made me feel SO represented!!! I mean, as a mixed kid who uses two sets of pronouns, I felt like Esme got me. We loved how Willow got to (slightly) explore his gender identity and I hope he gets to explore it more in the Witch's War!!
ALSO NO IT CANNOT END THERE IT SIMPLY MUST NOT ESME YOU'RE THE REASON I SPAM MY FRIENDS.
We loved that big twist at the end of the book but Neal I swear to God you reveal a HUGE secret every book what's gonna happen in the Witch's War. Why is no one addressing this??? Also I hope Nick's okay just saying :/
Overall, this was an amazing sequel and I can't wait to see what happens next. Definitely would advise readers to read the author's note.
I love it!!!!! ₩|-|€R3 C@|\| | G€T T#3 |\|€×+ B○⁰K
OMIGOD.
Okay, so this book...
Wow. Just... wow.
It's much darker than the Champions of Helston. But I appreciate that. As a kid about Callie's age, it's nice to know people recognize us and our pain. I definitely FELT second-hand pain from Callie getting called a girl. Exploring part of Edwyn's trauma was—mwah—chef's kiss. The pool thingy was actually pretty cool.
I absolutely loved The Roost!!! The dragons and others are so fun! I absolutely love Teo,, if you’re wondering who my favorite dragon is. Xe is so fun! Of course, Edwyn is number one. Always. Since book one. Of course I don't remember her name though I literally just finished it, but the person who uses she/they pronouns and if I remember correctly is a poc made me feel SO represented!!! I mean, as a mixed kid who uses two sets of pronouns, I felt like Esme got me. We loved how Willow got to (slightly) explore his gender identity and I hope he gets to explore it more in the Witch's War!!
ALSO NO IT CANNOT END THERE IT SIMPLY MUST NOT ESME YOU'RE THE REASON I SPAM MY FRIENDS.
We loved that big twist at the end of the book but Neal I swear to God you reveal a HUGE secret every book what's gonna happen in the Witch's War. Why is no one addressing this??? Also I hope Nick's okay just saying :/
Overall, this was an amazing sequel and I can't wait to see what happens next. Definitely would advise readers to read the author's note.
I love it!!!!! ₩|-|€R3 C@|\| | G€T T#3 |\|€×+ B○⁰K
July 31, 2024
This book is extremely sad from beginning to end.
October 16, 2025
This hurt so good, why do all my favourite books cause me emotional pain??? This was exactly the sequel I hoped for. I love how distinct every character is, you really get to understand everyone's motivations even if you don’t always agree with their actions.
I was not ready for, “You’re right. It’s not an excuse; it’s a reason.” cos that was something that would've helped me a lot to hear as a kid.
I especially love the emphasis on everyone healing in different ways and at different rates. So much happened in book 1 that cannot be swept under the rug and I’m glad we got to address some of that.
It’s hard reading middle grade books when you’re older because I can’t as easily dismiss the adults point of view like I did when I was younger, everyone is trying their best though not always in the way you want. anyway I will be (im)patiently waiting for book 3. Thank you for another amazing book.
Oct 2025 Update -
Every reread brings new pain, this hurt just as good as the first time. Love all the plot build up for things to come that I didn't notice as much on my first read. On to book 3!
I was not ready for, “You’re right. It’s not an excuse; it’s a reason.” cos that was something that would've helped me a lot to hear as a kid.
I especially love the emphasis on everyone healing in different ways and at different rates. So much happened in book 1 that cannot be swept under the rug and I’m glad we got to address some of that.
It’s hard reading middle grade books when you’re older because I can’t as easily dismiss the adults point of view like I did when I was younger, everyone is trying their best though not always in the way you want. anyway I will be (im)patiently waiting for book 3. Thank you for another amazing book.
Oct 2025 Update -
Every reread brings new pain, this hurt just as good as the first time. Love all the plot build up for things to come that I didn't notice as much on my first read. On to book 3!
March 30, 2024
THIS IS THE BEST GODDAMN BOOK I'VE EVER READ
READING THE LAST THREE CHAPTERS WITH "NOTHINGS NEW" BY RIO ROMEO LOOPING HAS ME GOING FERAL
READING THE LAST THREE CHAPTERS WITH "NOTHINGS NEW" BY RIO ROMEO LOOPING HAS ME GOING FERAL
August 8, 2025
I'll give this 5 stars when the 3rd book comes out and the cliffhanger is resolved 😤
May 13, 2024
I’ll never be happy again…..
September 16, 2023
**Many thanks to Labyrinth Road/Random House Children's Books, and Netgalley for an Advanced Reader's Copy (ARC) of this book**
In a word: Magnificent. I stayed up till 1AM, then finished it this morning, and I loved it. Esme's done it again, and written a continuation of an LGBTQ+ series, a continuation of a FANTASY series, that everyone should read.
Our favorite non-binary, Callie, is training to be a page, finally getting their wish to serve Helston in the way they always dreamed. Although… it's NOT all it's cracked up to be. Because, as we in the real world know, change is… slow. Sometimes, glacially. And, Helston is no different: regardless of male, female or nonbinary, there's still the expectancy for twelve-year-olds to sit down, shut up, and "stay in their lane", regardless of who they are and how desperately they want to stay true to themselves.
LGBTQ+ people are begrudgingly tolerated, still feared/hated, and I hate the slow, backwards progression of old ideals. It is a fast descent into madness how infuriating the supposed "grown-ups" are in this book, the ones who should know better, the ones who should have the best interests of their younger wards at heart. But, as with the first book, it's a very sad, cautionary tale of how prejudice repeats itself through fear mongering and violence.
The kids are growing up: I like where their character arcs are going. El is growing into her fiestiness and spirit, as well as her magic. Willow is still caught between magic and a hard place as the crown prince, but is learning how to do things his own way, on his terms. Callie is still obsessed with food, but is growing up into an even more mature young person that doesn't make as rash decisions as they had in the past. I was especially happy with the growth they all received.
But Edwyn… oh, Edwyn. I formerly hated the manipulated young man, and most of my frustrations with him stemmed from how little information I had as to why he is who he is. Now, I love him. Esme brought him front and center, and you learn why he acts as he does. I got my why, it breaks my heart, and all I want to do is hug that little broken squish.
(I want to hug all the squishes…)
These kids, in this realm, are making it better, better than their adult counterparts who are so busy with their own selfish and bigoted ways that those adults can't see how their actions are hurting the children. And, I want to point that out: prejudice, violence, abuse (both verbal and physical), hatred due to fear… that's all here. Esme did not pull punches, and I would never dream of asking them to. Because, it is necessary. It's important to learn that adults SHOULD get it right, especially when it comes to little kids, their big feelings, and discovering who their little selves want to become. Parents SHOULD be accepting. They SHOULD do things to keep the kids safe, and should fight against what harms them. They SHOULD love them unconditionally, and have the best of intentions for them. But… sometimes they don't. Out of fear. Out of hatred and prejudice. Out of sheer ignorance. And, when that happens, little people should speak up… and adults should listen.
And, not to be silly, but… this book also has fully fleshed out dragons in a way I have rarely seen dragons portrayed, and not entirely in this way. Yeah. Dragons. And Esme doesn't shy away from flipping a few dragon myths on their heads either. Loved it.
This book ends on a cliffhanger (which I hated, because I wanted MORE), and I love where this whole series is going. As an adult, I'm more invested in this series than I have been in anything in adult fantasy, in a long time.
Give me more, Esme. My bowl is empty and I want you to fill it, please. Because, you developed, crafted, and published one heck of a series.
In a word: Magnificent. I stayed up till 1AM, then finished it this morning, and I loved it. Esme's done it again, and written a continuation of an LGBTQ+ series, a continuation of a FANTASY series, that everyone should read.
Our favorite non-binary, Callie, is training to be a page, finally getting their wish to serve Helston in the way they always dreamed. Although… it's NOT all it's cracked up to be. Because, as we in the real world know, change is… slow. Sometimes, glacially. And, Helston is no different: regardless of male, female or nonbinary, there's still the expectancy for twelve-year-olds to sit down, shut up, and "stay in their lane", regardless of who they are and how desperately they want to stay true to themselves.
LGBTQ+ people are begrudgingly tolerated, still feared/hated, and I hate the slow, backwards progression of old ideals. It is a fast descent into madness how infuriating the supposed "grown-ups" are in this book, the ones who should know better, the ones who should have the best interests of their younger wards at heart. But, as with the first book, it's a very sad, cautionary tale of how prejudice repeats itself through fear mongering and violence.
The kids are growing up: I like where their character arcs are going. El is growing into her fiestiness and spirit, as well as her magic. Willow is still caught between magic and a hard place as the crown prince, but is learning how to do things his own way, on his terms. Callie is still obsessed with food, but is growing up into an even more mature young person that doesn't make as rash decisions as they had in the past. I was especially happy with the growth they all received.
But Edwyn… oh, Edwyn. I formerly hated the manipulated young man, and most of my frustrations with him stemmed from how little information I had as to why he is who he is. Now, I love him. Esme brought him front and center, and you learn why he acts as he does. I got my why, it breaks my heart, and all I want to do is hug that little broken squish.
(I want to hug all the squishes…)
These kids, in this realm, are making it better, better than their adult counterparts who are so busy with their own selfish and bigoted ways that those adults can't see how their actions are hurting the children. And, I want to point that out: prejudice, violence, abuse (both verbal and physical), hatred due to fear… that's all here. Esme did not pull punches, and I would never dream of asking them to. Because, it is necessary. It's important to learn that adults SHOULD get it right, especially when it comes to little kids, their big feelings, and discovering who their little selves want to become. Parents SHOULD be accepting. They SHOULD do things to keep the kids safe, and should fight against what harms them. They SHOULD love them unconditionally, and have the best of intentions for them. But… sometimes they don't. Out of fear. Out of hatred and prejudice. Out of sheer ignorance. And, when that happens, little people should speak up… and adults should listen.
And, not to be silly, but… this book also has fully fleshed out dragons in a way I have rarely seen dragons portrayed, and not entirely in this way. Yeah. Dragons. And Esme doesn't shy away from flipping a few dragon myths on their heads either. Loved it.
This book ends on a cliffhanger (which I hated, because I wanted MORE), and I love where this whole series is going. As an adult, I'm more invested in this series than I have been in anything in adult fantasy, in a long time.
Give me more, Esme. My bowl is empty and I want you to fill it, please. Because, you developed, crafted, and published one heck of a series.
July 13, 2024
i’m going to frow up
October 19, 2024
hey haha! don’t do that to me! you simply cannot end it like that!
November 18, 2023
Helston seems to be heading the right direction all thanks to Callie and their friends. Boys and girls are allowed to pursue what they want to pursue, be it magic or becoming a warrior. But not everyone is so keen to see Helston change. Especially as outside forces start to seed a fear of magic in the town.
Callie notices the suspicious glances thrown towards themselves and their friends, but feels powerless to do anything about it. When the peace finally shatters, Callie and their friends find themselves fleeing the city. As they seek refuge in the most unlikely place, Callie realizes everything isn’t what it seems. And their whole world is thrown into question.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an advanced copy of Sir Callie and the Dragon’s Roost by Esme Symes-Smith to review! I absolutely loved the first book when I read it last year, so I was excited to see where Callie went next. And I was not disappointed!
What I appreciate about this series thus far is that Symes-Smith does not shy away from difficult topics. One of the main themes about this book in particular is that kids can handle more than adults think they can. Callie and their friends are kids, but they are repeatedly thrown into adult situations by the adults. And the adults keep lying to them about what’s actually going on. All they want is to be treated as equals if they are going to be forced into a war that the adults created.
There are also a lot of great discussions about queer identities throughout this book; especially about labels and how they mean different things to different people. You might think this is out of place in a fantasy book, but it flows really well with the overall story. They also coincide with discussions about trauma and the ways that a non-accepting society can attribute to that. Which is really relevant to current discussions about censoring books.
In addition to all of this, there’s also found family, great characters, interesting magic systems, and fun adventure. So much for middle grade fantasy readers to love. I honestly don’t think that I have a bad thing to say about this book. And I hope it gets into the hands of readers that need it!
Callie notices the suspicious glances thrown towards themselves and their friends, but feels powerless to do anything about it. When the peace finally shatters, Callie and their friends find themselves fleeing the city. As they seek refuge in the most unlikely place, Callie realizes everything isn’t what it seems. And their whole world is thrown into question.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an advanced copy of Sir Callie and the Dragon’s Roost by Esme Symes-Smith to review! I absolutely loved the first book when I read it last year, so I was excited to see where Callie went next. And I was not disappointed!
What I appreciate about this series thus far is that Symes-Smith does not shy away from difficult topics. One of the main themes about this book in particular is that kids can handle more than adults think they can. Callie and their friends are kids, but they are repeatedly thrown into adult situations by the adults. And the adults keep lying to them about what’s actually going on. All they want is to be treated as equals if they are going to be forced into a war that the adults created.
There are also a lot of great discussions about queer identities throughout this book; especially about labels and how they mean different things to different people. You might think this is out of place in a fantasy book, but it flows really well with the overall story. They also coincide with discussions about trauma and the ways that a non-accepting society can attribute to that. Which is really relevant to current discussions about censoring books.
In addition to all of this, there’s also found family, great characters, interesting magic systems, and fun adventure. So much for middle grade fantasy readers to love. I honestly don’t think that I have a bad thing to say about this book. And I hope it gets into the hands of readers that need it!
April 22, 2023
I was privileged to get an ARC of this through Netgalley, so I've been reading it about 6 months in advance of its release.
Middle Grade fantasy sequel (2nd in a planned series of 4) following nonbinary Callie and their tightknit group of friends. A very strong sequel that continues to deliver on smart, nuanced, heartfelt thematic content while stepping up the ongoing plot to be a little bit darker, the stakes rising ever higher.
Volume 1 (which you should read if you haven't yet and enjoy middle grade books at all, ever loved Tamora Pierce, and/or work with young LGBTQIA kiddos and want to be aware of books they might find helpful) left off at a triumphant point-- the villain excised from court, rights granted, etc. Starting a few months later, The Dragon's Roost picks up with the realization that resistance to the culture Callie and friends envisioned was always bigger than just one man, change is slow, and grown-ups are a lot more willing to compromise on their behalf than children are comfortable with. One of the strongest running themes of this volume is that children are people, and they are people who often have very little voice in matters that affect them.
A comment on pacing, in terms of action, it is pretty front-loaded, with much of the second half focusing on investigation, decision- making, and emotional development, until the final conflict when action happens again. This didn't bother me, partly because the emotional stakes (and stakes for the ever-looming battle between Helston and Dumoor) kept rising, but perhaps partly because I am a character-driven reader. I could see some readers being a little thrown by this, but for me it was more a realization as the end came near that, like, oh, things have not been violent for a long time, I guess.
Callie and their friends, all of the tween characters, they are wonderful and endearing and flawed and individual, and I want to ruffle their hair and tell them all what good kiddos they are. It really impresses me how unique and fully-formed each of the kids is (It's Callie's story, but not only their story, and their friends are not background), and how fully-realized each of their different friendships is. Because while they are a group, there are also individual close bonds between each pair, and each of those is different. It is clear from volume 1, and even more explicit in this book (but still handled in a very cute, age-appropriate way) which of them is Callie's love interest, but all of the one-on-one scenes with any of their friends are lovely, because each of the friendships is so genuine but different (and we also understand the different dynamics between the pairs that don't involve Callie, if not to the same detailed degree). Edwyn, who was least present in the first book, gets a lot of time in this one, and while every time one of the kids is spotlighted, I go, "Aaah, this is why I LOVE Callie/Willow/Elowen/Edwyn!" Edwyn is my actual favorite. (Also there is a new friend in this book, xir name is Teo and xe is a dragon and dragons use neopronouns in this series, and anyway, I also love xem.)
Like I mentioned, the plot gets darker in this book. Change isn't easy. The grownups who have been trusted make some bad choices. Trauma has to be faced. Secrets have to be uncovered. And hard truths have to be told. But there are also some moments of joy that made my heart sing.
Middle Grade fantasy sequel (2nd in a planned series of 4) following nonbinary Callie and their tightknit group of friends. A very strong sequel that continues to deliver on smart, nuanced, heartfelt thematic content while stepping up the ongoing plot to be a little bit darker, the stakes rising ever higher.
Volume 1 (which you should read if you haven't yet and enjoy middle grade books at all, ever loved Tamora Pierce, and/or work with young LGBTQIA kiddos and want to be aware of books they might find helpful) left off at a triumphant point-- the villain excised from court, rights granted, etc. Starting a few months later, The Dragon's Roost picks up with the realization that resistance to the culture Callie and friends envisioned was always bigger than just one man, change is slow, and grown-ups are a lot more willing to compromise on their behalf than children are comfortable with. One of the strongest running themes of this volume is that children are people, and they are people who often have very little voice in matters that affect them.
A comment on pacing, in terms of action, it is pretty front-loaded, with much of the second half focusing on investigation, decision- making, and emotional development, until the final conflict when action happens again. This didn't bother me, partly because the emotional stakes (and stakes for the ever-looming battle between Helston and Dumoor) kept rising, but perhaps partly because I am a character-driven reader. I could see some readers being a little thrown by this, but for me it was more a realization as the end came near that, like, oh, things have not been violent for a long time, I guess.
Callie and their friends, all of the tween characters, they are wonderful and endearing and flawed and individual, and I want to ruffle their hair and tell them all what good kiddos they are. It really impresses me how unique and fully-formed each of the kids is (It's Callie's story, but not only their story, and their friends are not background), and how fully-realized each of their different friendships is. Because while they are a group, there are also individual close bonds between each pair, and each of those is different. It is clear from volume 1, and even more explicit in this book (but still handled in a very cute, age-appropriate way) which of them is Callie's love interest, but all of the one-on-one scenes with any of their friends are lovely, because each of the friendships is so genuine but different (and we also understand the different dynamics between the pairs that don't involve Callie, if not to the same detailed degree). Edwyn, who was least present in the first book, gets a lot of time in this one, and while every time one of the kids is spotlighted, I go, "Aaah, this is why I LOVE Callie/Willow/Elowen/Edwyn!" Edwyn is my actual favorite. (Also there is a new friend in this book, xir name is Teo and xe is a dragon and dragons use neopronouns in this series, and anyway, I also love xem.)
Like I mentioned, the plot gets darker in this book. Change isn't easy. The grownups who have been trusted make some bad choices. Trauma has to be faced. Secrets have to be uncovered. And hard truths have to be told. But there are also some moments of joy that made my heart sing.
Read
December 23, 2023tl;dr
A sharply realistic tale (even with the dragons!), with a lot of heavy emotions at play and some clean world building.
Thoughts
Well, dang. I already noted that the previous book was a very stressful read for me, despite the fact that it was very good. The good news is this book was not stressful in the same way. The bad news is, it was stressful in entirely different ways. But at least it's accurate, and I appreciate that. Progress is often slow and incremental, and it would be disingenuous to suggest after the first book that every problem has been fixed with a single victory. Instead, Callie and their friends are still met with suspicion and animosity. Even the adults who love them spend most of their time placating other adults. Edwyn's story, in particular, means a lot to me, and I only want good things for him. But despite all the stressors, there's a lot of hope, and a lot of joy in here too. The world is not over, even when things are difficult. And the joy in being one's self is so great. We also get to The Roost, which is beautifully described. I also appreciated the lesson that even heroes are not necessarily immune to propaganda, and it's important for all of us to question our assumptions. There's a cliffhanger at the end of this, so now I have to sit around and wait for the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Labyrinth Road for a review copy. All thoughts in this review are my own!
A sharply realistic tale (even with the dragons!), with a lot of heavy emotions at play and some clean world building.
Thoughts
Well, dang. I already noted that the previous book was a very stressful read for me, despite the fact that it was very good. The good news is this book was not stressful in the same way. The bad news is, it was stressful in entirely different ways. But at least it's accurate, and I appreciate that. Progress is often slow and incremental, and it would be disingenuous to suggest after the first book that every problem has been fixed with a single victory. Instead, Callie and their friends are still met with suspicion and animosity. Even the adults who love them spend most of their time placating other adults. Edwyn's story, in particular, means a lot to me, and I only want good things for him. But despite all the stressors, there's a lot of hope, and a lot of joy in here too. The world is not over, even when things are difficult. And the joy in being one's self is so great. We also get to The Roost, which is beautifully described. I also appreciated the lesson that even heroes are not necessarily immune to propaganda, and it's important for all of us to question our assumptions. There's a cliffhanger at the end of this, so now I have to sit around and wait for the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Labyrinth Road for a review copy. All thoughts in this review are my own!
June 25, 2024
Loved this one!
Rep: Non-Binary MC, Lots of queer Rep, Multiple Pronouns including neo pronouns
Tropes: Chosen One
9.71/10
Characters-10
Oh boy the characters in this book were great. I loved getting to see Callie more. I also loved seeing the characters from the first book grow. I loved the personal journeys and exploration in this book.
Atmosphere-10
This book had a great atmosphere. I listened to the audiobook and I loved how the setting played a role in the story.
Writing-10
The audiobook for this was a great production. I loved the narration by Dani Martineck. Each character had their own unique voice and I was brought into the world.
Plot-10
I loved this story. There was great action and smaller moments. I loved the journey of finding yourself, and finding your community that this story told.
Intrigue-9
This was an interesting story. I was engaged even if the pace dropped at the halfway point.
Logic-9
I think this might be explained in the third book, but there were some things that I was left confused on when it came to this book.
Enjoyment-10
I had a great time with this. It was fun and heartwarming at the same time. I enjoyed it more than I thoughts and I can't wait for the next one.
Rep: Non-Binary MC, Lots of queer Rep, Multiple Pronouns including neo pronouns
Tropes: Chosen One
9.71/10
Characters-10
Oh boy the characters in this book were great. I loved getting to see Callie more. I also loved seeing the characters from the first book grow. I loved the personal journeys and exploration in this book.
Atmosphere-10
This book had a great atmosphere. I listened to the audiobook and I loved how the setting played a role in the story.
Writing-10
The audiobook for this was a great production. I loved the narration by Dani Martineck. Each character had their own unique voice and I was brought into the world.
Plot-10
I loved this story. There was great action and smaller moments. I loved the journey of finding yourself, and finding your community that this story told.
Intrigue-9
This was an interesting story. I was engaged even if the pace dropped at the halfway point.
Logic-9
I think this might be explained in the third book, but there were some things that I was left confused on when it came to this book.
Enjoyment-10
I had a great time with this. It was fun and heartwarming at the same time. I enjoyed it more than I thoughts and I can't wait for the next one.
July 13, 2024
I didn’t realize when I requested this that it was a sequel because I’m notoriously bad at investigating that before requesting things. But I’m a completionist and was delighted to read the first book in the series before this one. Sir Callie and the Dragon’s Roost picks up where Sir Callie and the Champions of Helston leaves off, with twelve-year-old nonbinary knight Callie still fighting against misunderstanding and smallmindedness. They’ve accomplished a win in Helston - that children are allowed to pursue their interests, regardless of gender - but there is still a lot of fear and anger from those around them. Callie must create a greater understanding around magic use and especially around the longtime beliefs of the town around the nearby “dragon’s roost,” the landing place for a woman who was ousted from Helston years ago and created her own community as a result.
This is such a powerful story, especially for middle grade readers. I’m so glad that this series exists for the young people who will be looking for representation in their libraries and other bookish places. More than that, it also holds up as an adult reader. It doesn’t feel infantalized. Callie is dealing with **big** problems, problems that even adults have a hard time with, and they are steadfast and true in their belief of what’s right - and what is wrong. It can be hard as a kid to feel like your voice matters, but Callie shows that it does. Symes-Smith tackles these incredibly grownup issues with such care and attention. Even though I’m not the target audience for this, it is healing something in me to read these, and I know that will be true for many people my age and beyond. I can’t wait to go on more adventures with Callie.
This is such a powerful story, especially for middle grade readers. I’m so glad that this series exists for the young people who will be looking for representation in their libraries and other bookish places. More than that, it also holds up as an adult reader. It doesn’t feel infantalized. Callie is dealing with **big** problems, problems that even adults have a hard time with, and they are steadfast and true in their belief of what’s right - and what is wrong. It can be hard as a kid to feel like your voice matters, but Callie shows that it does. Symes-Smith tackles these incredibly grownup issues with such care and attention. Even though I’m not the target audience for this, it is healing something in me to read these, and I know that will be true for many people my age and beyond. I can’t wait to go on more adventures with Callie.
December 2, 2023
I finished this late last night, and was left without words to describe it; only inchoherent exclamations. And that's DESPITE approaching the book already knowing that there would be a cliffhanger ending, and having had hints from the author about some of the revelations.
SIR CALLIE AND THE DRAGON'S ROOST was such a wild ride. The first Sir Callie book was already strong, but this one is stronger, darker, angstier, even more explicitly queer, and more complex. At times I wondered if it was really MG, because the darkness and ethical complexity of the novel reminded me of the best of YA. (But of course, MG readers deserve to explore complicated moral dilemmas, too.)
Also, there are more dragons in this one. Yay!
I don't know what else to say about this book other than that fantasy fans should read it, no matter how old they are. While I definitely recommend it to the folks who grew up wishing they could be Alanna of Trebond, I think the appeal goes far beyond that fanbase.
SIR CALLIE AND THE DRAGON'S ROOST was such a wild ride. The first Sir Callie book was already strong, but this one is stronger, darker, angstier, even more explicitly queer, and more complex. At times I wondered if it was really MG, because the darkness and ethical complexity of the novel reminded me of the best of YA. (But of course, MG readers deserve to explore complicated moral dilemmas, too.)
Also, there are more dragons in this one. Yay!
I don't know what else to say about this book other than that fantasy fans should read it, no matter how old they are. While I definitely recommend it to the folks who grew up wishing they could be Alanna of Trebond, I think the appeal goes far beyond that fanbase.
October 3, 2023
this book is LUCKY I didn’t take off a star for making me sob on that cliffhanger PAY FOR MY THERAPY 🤺
November 25, 2023
EVEN BETTER THAN THE FIRST
(ALSO TEO IS MY NEW FAVORITE CHARACTER)
(ALSO TEO IS MY NEW FAVORITE CHARACTER)
December 19, 2023
Great sequel! There is a lot of nuance in these books that I really appreciate.
June 18, 2024
That ending was RUDE.
June 30, 2024
Sir Callie and the Dragon's Roost
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4/5) or 8.00/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 9
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 8
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (4/5) or 8.00/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 8
Writing - 8
Plot - 7
Intrigue - 9
Logic - 8
Enjoyment - 8
February 25, 2024
Ouch ouch ouch
Read
March 11, 2025Phewwww I’m not even gonna try to give a star rating for this one, the beginning showed a lot of promise and I LOVED the tension, but everything after that was a mess… But a messy mess, where not everything is terrible, and some parts can even be good or great. Like an assorted jellybean mix? I feel like I’ve used that exact wording two years ago, hm.
For starters, while the idea of dragons being a persecuted people is an interesting subversion of classic fantasy tropes, and further shows the problems in Helson’s very existence (since it prides itself around being based on most of those tropes), I did not like how most of it was handled. Fantasy series handling oppression through an allegorical lens is something that can be very, very easily messed up. And this book also followed a classic trope of characters being redeemed by revealing that the “good” and “bad” sides are actually reversed. Callie’s moral dilemma about “the enemy” was not only predictable, but annoyingly repetitive. Though. I thought the similarities between anti-magic and anti-dragon sentiment were interesting (dragons are inherently magical). I just wish that didn’t lead to Callie and crew having to go through the exact same hurdles as book 1, down to the “we have to tell the Queen!!” bit… (your Queen is the reason for this entire book happening, what makes you think telling her anything is going to change things?!?!)
I also didn’t like how there seemed to be an excuse for everything Dumoor did, even if it was similar to Helston? Teo’s technically a child soldier and they brush this off as Dumoor citizens having the choice to fight???!!! I feel like children aren’t fully consenting to that?? Was that criticized and am I missing something?? And Kensa had the most awkward-sounding apology for almost killing Callie, it had me laughing in disbelief. But god, I also hate how Callie keeps blaming Helston’s problems on Adan and Peran AND NOT THE ENTIRE KINGDOM AS AN INSTITUTION😭HAVE YOU LEARNED NOTHING😭😭
And!! Plot-relevant conversations in general were extremely repetitive! It felt like I would read an entire page just to see the same point said three times, it was so frustrating. I realize now that it’s probably for the sake of the younger demographic, but the wording for those points was so obvious and simple in the first place that it just feels like talking down to your readers??? I don’t know how to feel about the Teo-specific repetition, though, because I’m sure the reason for it was Callie’s back-and-forth inside their mind.
The therapy-speak continues in this book, which is something I picked up on in book 1, but was definitely more egregious this time around, now that it was centered around the kids and the words couldn’t be passed off as advice from emotionally healthy adults. LORDDD it made so many parts absolutely frustrating to read, ESPECIALLY when I felt the messaging was iffy, because it was just making the words simplified and easy to drill into people’s brains, and thinking about it just makes me HEATED😵💫 I hated how the kids were repeatedly made to fend for themselves and be wary of any adults, until the last 10% of the book or so.
Ugh this was so heavy, too. Even though this installment leans more into the fantasy elements, so much of the story is allegorical, meaning that even if there’s a cool invisibility spell or a cozy dragon hideout, there’s little to no escapism. It was so draining, even though I’ll forever be engaged by Callie as a protagonist. A lot of this was abuse, either on-page or in flashbacks, but with significantly less hope than the first book.
I’ve been super harsh in this review, so I’ll list some things I did like. I liked getting to see casual queerness for the first time in this series, in Dumoor. I think the modern terminology felt a little stilted in the fantasy setting, but it was nice to see Elowen and Willow finally be able to recognize who they were, and strangely comforting to see characters not have to describe their gender or sexuality in vague terms for the sake of historical accuracy. Willow’s feelings around his gender especially resonated with me, even if I’m transmasc and not transfem.
(Get this kid a true.)
I also really liked Elowen and Edwyn’s dynamic, particularly how differently they processed the trauma of being raised by Peran in Helston. Edwyn frustrated me so terribly, but it’s because that’s what it sounds like to be in the same household as someone who internalizes abuse, and becomes anxious from it. (It was kind of mortifying to read, as someone who is also a twin. My brother is the Edwyn of the dynamic and I the Elowen, though.) I was happy to see him make a bit of growth and open up to Callie, his friendship with them is so stinking cute.
I also thought Teo was adorable. That’s probably most of the reason why I love xem, since xer dragon-ness (and Callie’s thoughts around xem) ties into the issues I had with the plot. Sure, xey’re very naïve, but xey’re sweet. And I loved that xe exclusively used neopronouns, and that there’s a moment in the book that addresses when well-meaning allies misgender neopronoun users. I’m curious as to why both xem and Kensa use xe pronouns (Teo uses xe/xem, Kensa xe/xir), as the prominent dragon characters? Do dragons just have a different relationship to gender??
Conflicted about Alis, though. I think her being a twist villain was a great way to show that Dumoor isn’t actually perfect, and I enjoy the twinge of sapphic drama in her backstory, but the only reason she stood out to me was because she’s an actual villain in a book that I was convinced would be defaulting to the same two people as the only villains. She’s a standard righteous villain, to be honest. But I want to see her dynamic with Elowen next book, that’s gonna be interesting.
And last but most importantly, like the first book, Dani Martineck kills it as narrator!! They single-handedly kept me listening to this book beginning to end, regardless of how many flaws there were. Unfortunately, my eyes are bloodshot from staying up late for several nights in a row, because I could not fall asleep to this book after a certain point (I can’t tell if it was Dani or the tone? Do I have to add another person to my one-person-long “narrators I can’t fall asleep to” list?). They personified the anguish, stakes, and (very rare) softness of this book. (But it was hilarious when they’d yell in a tense moment, and I could suddenly hear the smallness of the recording booth. 100% my second favorite thing about audiobooks.)
I think I already hinted at this in my book 1 review, and this is probably the most personal I’ll ever be on Goodreads, but is this a safe space to say that Callie’s Papa makes my daddy issues go CRAZY, just in the way that he totally reminds me of my own deceased dad’s unconditional support of my queerness??? (And his demeanor reminds me of the softer side of my dad. I want to bawl every time I read or listen to his lines.) I sorely missed him and Neal. Callie’s grief in the ending is bringing me to the verge of a mental breakdown I won’t lie😭😭
I’m going to read the third book and probably the fourth one too, just because I want to see how it ends. This series is weirdly meaningful to me.
For starters, while the idea of dragons being a persecuted people is an interesting subversion of classic fantasy tropes, and further shows the problems in Helson’s very existence (since it prides itself around being based on most of those tropes), I did not like how most of it was handled. Fantasy series handling oppression through an allegorical lens is something that can be very, very easily messed up. And this book also followed a classic trope of characters being redeemed by revealing that the “good” and “bad” sides are actually reversed. Callie’s moral dilemma about “the enemy” was not only predictable, but annoyingly repetitive. Though. I thought the similarities between anti-magic and anti-dragon sentiment were interesting (dragons are inherently magical). I just wish that didn’t lead to Callie and crew having to go through the exact same hurdles as book 1, down to the “we have to tell the Queen!!” bit… (your Queen is the reason for this entire book happening, what makes you think telling her anything is going to change things?!?!)
I also didn’t like how there seemed to be an excuse for everything Dumoor did, even if it was similar to Helston? Teo’s technically a child soldier and they brush this off as Dumoor citizens having the choice to fight???!!! I feel like children aren’t fully consenting to that?? Was that criticized and am I missing something?? And Kensa had the most awkward-sounding apology for almost killing Callie, it had me laughing in disbelief. But god, I also hate how Callie keeps blaming Helston’s problems on Adan and Peran AND NOT THE ENTIRE KINGDOM AS AN INSTITUTION😭HAVE YOU LEARNED NOTHING😭😭
And!! Plot-relevant conversations in general were extremely repetitive! It felt like I would read an entire page just to see the same point said three times, it was so frustrating. I realize now that it’s probably for the sake of the younger demographic, but the wording for those points was so obvious and simple in the first place that it just feels like talking down to your readers??? I don’t know how to feel about the Teo-specific repetition, though, because I’m sure the reason for it was Callie’s back-and-forth inside their mind.
The therapy-speak continues in this book, which is something I picked up on in book 1, but was definitely more egregious this time around, now that it was centered around the kids and the words couldn’t be passed off as advice from emotionally healthy adults. LORDDD it made so many parts absolutely frustrating to read, ESPECIALLY when I felt the messaging was iffy, because it was just making the words simplified and easy to drill into people’s brains, and thinking about it just makes me HEATED😵💫 I hated how the kids were repeatedly made to fend for themselves and be wary of any adults, until the last 10% of the book or so.
Ugh this was so heavy, too. Even though this installment leans more into the fantasy elements, so much of the story is allegorical, meaning that even if there’s a cool invisibility spell or a cozy dragon hideout, there’s little to no escapism. It was so draining, even though I’ll forever be engaged by Callie as a protagonist. A lot of this was abuse, either on-page or in flashbacks, but with significantly less hope than the first book.
I’ve been super harsh in this review, so I’ll list some things I did like. I liked getting to see casual queerness for the first time in this series, in Dumoor. I think the modern terminology felt a little stilted in the fantasy setting, but it was nice to see Elowen and Willow finally be able to recognize who they were, and strangely comforting to see characters not have to describe their gender or sexuality in vague terms for the sake of historical accuracy. Willow’s feelings around his gender especially resonated with me, even if I’m transmasc and not transfem.
“I like being ‘he’. Even on days when I don’t feel much like a boy. Is that okay? Is it cheating? It sort of feels like cheating.”
(Get this kid a true.)
I also really liked Elowen and Edwyn’s dynamic, particularly how differently they processed the trauma of being raised by Peran in Helston. Edwyn frustrated me so terribly, but it’s because that’s what it sounds like to be in the same household as someone who internalizes abuse, and becomes anxious from it. (It was kind of mortifying to read, as someone who is also a twin. My brother is the Edwyn of the dynamic and I the Elowen, though.) I was happy to see him make a bit of growth and open up to Callie, his friendship with them is so stinking cute.
I also thought Teo was adorable. That’s probably most of the reason why I love xem, since xer dragon-ness (and Callie’s thoughts around xem) ties into the issues I had with the plot. Sure, xey’re very naïve, but xey’re sweet. And I loved that xe exclusively used neopronouns, and that there’s a moment in the book that addresses when well-meaning allies misgender neopronoun users. I’m curious as to why both xem and Kensa use xe pronouns (Teo uses xe/xem, Kensa xe/xir), as the prominent dragon characters? Do dragons just have a different relationship to gender??
Conflicted about Alis, though. I think her being a twist villain was a great way to show that Dumoor isn’t actually perfect, and I enjoy the twinge of sapphic drama in her backstory, but the only reason she stood out to me was because she’s an actual villain in a book that I was convinced would be defaulting to the same two people as the only villains. She’s a standard righteous villain, to be honest. But I want to see her dynamic with Elowen next book, that’s gonna be interesting.
And last but most importantly, like the first book, Dani Martineck kills it as narrator!! They single-handedly kept me listening to this book beginning to end, regardless of how many flaws there were. Unfortunately, my eyes are bloodshot from staying up late for several nights in a row, because I could not fall asleep to this book after a certain point (I can’t tell if it was Dani or the tone? Do I have to add another person to my one-person-long “narrators I can’t fall asleep to” list?). They personified the anguish, stakes, and (very rare) softness of this book. (But it was hilarious when they’d yell in a tense moment, and I could suddenly hear the smallness of the recording booth. 100% my second favorite thing about audiobooks.)
I think I already hinted at this in my book 1 review, and this is probably the most personal I’ll ever be on Goodreads, but is this a safe space to say that Callie’s Papa makes my daddy issues go CRAZY, just in the way that he totally reminds me of my own deceased dad’s unconditional support of my queerness??? (And his demeanor reminds me of the softer side of my dad. I want to bawl every time I read or listen to his lines.) I sorely missed him and Neal. Callie’s grief in the ending is bringing me to the verge of a mental breakdown I won’t lie😭😭
I’m going to read the third book and probably the fourth one too, just because I want to see how it ends. This series is weirdly meaningful to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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