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The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir
When a dragon finds an assassin sneaking into his lair, he tells her of his life's work and his soon to be final chapter.
For the past thousand years, the dragon Vakandi has watched the people of Vakfored grow from a wandering band of refugees to a glorious city of art and magic. Under his protection, the city has survived monsters, floods, and wars all without building an army, dam, or even a wall. But time changes everything and now the citizens of his beloved city want him dead.
Vakandi spends his last day telling his assassin why he loves them, and why it's his time to die.
For the past thousand years, the dragon Vakandi has watched the people of Vakfored grow from a wandering band of refugees to a glorious city of art and magic. Under his protection, the city has survived monsters, floods, and wars all without building an army, dam, or even a wall. But time changes everything and now the citizens of his beloved city want him dead.
Vakandi spends his last day telling his assassin why he loves them, and why it's his time to die.
196 pages, Paperback
First published September 25, 2023
19 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
July 13, 2024
5/5 Stars
A tale within a tale featuring a unique perspective of dragons and filled with heart. Simply put, a must read!
This standalone fantasy novella follows an assassin tasked with slaying the tyrant dragon, Vakandi, who has terrorized her city for centuries. When the assassin confronts the dragon, they’re made an offer; listen to the Vakandi’s story and at the end of his tale he will leave for good. What lies will the dragon tell, or is it the city’s history that’s filled with lies?
First and foremost, I can’t recommend this novella enough. Not only does this have a unique take on dragons in fantasy but explores the different perspectives of short and long lived beings, the conflicts that arise throughout growth, how history influences generations and what happens when relationships are tested.
Throughout this story there’s action, discovery, survival, grief, war, and it’s all topped with a cozy vibe. All of these themes are beautifully explored with a hint of mystery and plenty of emotional moments.
With immersive storytelling, it was effortless to get lost in the world and the dragon’s story. Not only that, but as a character focused novella, it’s impressive how much Laura Huie has accomplished within such a short page count.
I also listened to the audiobook in addition to reading the ebook and the narrator, Ethan Fifield, gives a fantastic performance, bringing Vakandi to life.
If you’re looking for a binge-worthy, cozy fantasy that pulls on your heart, check out The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon’s Memoir.
A tale within a tale featuring a unique perspective of dragons and filled with heart. Simply put, a must read!
This standalone fantasy novella follows an assassin tasked with slaying the tyrant dragon, Vakandi, who has terrorized her city for centuries. When the assassin confronts the dragon, they’re made an offer; listen to the Vakandi’s story and at the end of his tale he will leave for good. What lies will the dragon tell, or is it the city’s history that’s filled with lies?
First and foremost, I can’t recommend this novella enough. Not only does this have a unique take on dragons in fantasy but explores the different perspectives of short and long lived beings, the conflicts that arise throughout growth, how history influences generations and what happens when relationships are tested.
Throughout this story there’s action, discovery, survival, grief, war, and it’s all topped with a cozy vibe. All of these themes are beautifully explored with a hint of mystery and plenty of emotional moments.
With immersive storytelling, it was effortless to get lost in the world and the dragon’s story. Not only that, but as a character focused novella, it’s impressive how much Laura Huie has accomplished within such a short page count.
I also listened to the audiobook in addition to reading the ebook and the narrator, Ethan Fifield, gives a fantastic performance, bringing Vakandi to life.
If you’re looking for a binge-worthy, cozy fantasy that pulls on your heart, check out The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon’s Memoir.
October 1, 2023
"The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon’s Memoir" by C.D. Houck transports readers to the enchanting city of Vakfored, where the long-anticipated heroine Sisal is poised to confront the oppressive dragon looming ominously over the city's mountain. However, the narrative takes a remarkable twist when Sisal's intended dragon-slaying mission transforms into an unexpected invitation – a breakfast rendezvous with the enigmatic dragon, Vakandi.
In this captivating tale, Houck delves deep into the heart and mind of Vakandi, offering readers a unique and spellbinding perspective from the very being traditionally branded as 'evil.' While human stories may evolve and fragment over centuries, the truth remains steadfast for a dragon whose lifespan stretches far beyond our mortal limitations.
"The Sunset Sovereign" casts an enchanting spell, akin to the ambiance of a Dungeons and Dragons adventure, enveloping readers in the warmth of cozy fantasy. It beckons to those who cherish the realms of fantasy, revere the majesty of dragons, or simply yearn for an enthralling narrative that transcends conventional boundaries.
In commendation of C.D. Houck's literary prowess, "The Sunset Sovereign" emerges as a must-read, weaving a tale that lingers long after the final page. Well done C.D. Houck, for crafting a mesmerizing and unforgettable story.
In this captivating tale, Houck delves deep into the heart and mind of Vakandi, offering readers a unique and spellbinding perspective from the very being traditionally branded as 'evil.' While human stories may evolve and fragment over centuries, the truth remains steadfast for a dragon whose lifespan stretches far beyond our mortal limitations.
"The Sunset Sovereign" casts an enchanting spell, akin to the ambiance of a Dungeons and Dragons adventure, enveloping readers in the warmth of cozy fantasy. It beckons to those who cherish the realms of fantasy, revere the majesty of dragons, or simply yearn for an enthralling narrative that transcends conventional boundaries.
In commendation of C.D. Houck's literary prowess, "The Sunset Sovereign" emerges as a must-read, weaving a tale that lingers long after the final page. Well done C.D. Houck, for crafting a mesmerizing and unforgettable story.
July 25, 2024
This was absolutely a bit of me. I flipping loved this little book
I am actually gutted it wasn't longer but then maybe the charm is the dynamic punch we get from such few pages
A story told from a completely different perspective whilst exploring some deep issues. I adored the story telling and honestly the character work blew my mind.
Gah I want to gush about this story. Its so good.
I'll let the reviewers who get to this book articulate with their razzmatazz but for me this was just blood brilliant
I am actually gutted it wasn't longer but then maybe the charm is the dynamic punch we get from such few pages
A story told from a completely different perspective whilst exploring some deep issues. I adored the story telling and honestly the character work blew my mind.
Gah I want to gush about this story. Its so good.
I'll let the reviewers who get to this book articulate with their razzmatazz but for me this was just blood brilliant
May 31, 2024
Review originally on JamReads
The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir is a cozy and heartwarming fantasy novel, written by Laura Huie; when dragon Vakandi finds an assassin in his lair, he knows it's the time to go. After passing the last thousand years taking care of the people of Vakfored, it's time to go; but before that, he wants his story to be known by those that want to eliminate him.
With a format that mixes the mundane scenes of Vakandi being an excellent host to that person that was tasked with killing him, and the own stories about how Vakfored thrived and survived under his protection; but if we learn something soon, is that maybe having the protection of an authentic nature force has made the Vakfored people to grow entitled and lazy, always trusting on the dragon for their protection.
But not only that, as Huie introduces us to some decisive moments that drove Vakandi towards isolationism; taking also the opportunity to show how stories might have more than one point of view, and how the villain might not always be the one demonized by everybody.
Despite it might feel as a sad story, it is also quite cute to see those humans acting under the orders and guidance of a dragon; this kind of perspective tends to not be really explored in fiction, making of this an original story. Low stakes tend to not work well for me, but this is a good example of how to write an exception.
If you are looking for a cozy and short read, which will make you empathize with a dragon and enjoy the humanity of the stories, The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memory is a great idea. I wonder if at some point Huie will decide to expand more on this world, as it was a cool classic fantasy setting.
The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memoir is a cozy and heartwarming fantasy novel, written by Laura Huie; when dragon Vakandi finds an assassin in his lair, he knows it's the time to go. After passing the last thousand years taking care of the people of Vakfored, it's time to go; but before that, he wants his story to be known by those that want to eliminate him.
With a format that mixes the mundane scenes of Vakandi being an excellent host to that person that was tasked with killing him, and the own stories about how Vakfored thrived and survived under his protection; but if we learn something soon, is that maybe having the protection of an authentic nature force has made the Vakfored people to grow entitled and lazy, always trusting on the dragon for their protection.
But not only that, as Huie introduces us to some decisive moments that drove Vakandi towards isolationism; taking also the opportunity to show how stories might have more than one point of view, and how the villain might not always be the one demonized by everybody.
Despite it might feel as a sad story, it is also quite cute to see those humans acting under the orders and guidance of a dragon; this kind of perspective tends to not be really explored in fiction, making of this an original story. Low stakes tend to not work well for me, but this is a good example of how to write an exception.
If you are looking for a cozy and short read, which will make you empathize with a dragon and enjoy the humanity of the stories, The Sunset Sovereign: A Dragon's Memory is a great idea. I wonder if at some point Huie will decide to expand more on this world, as it was a cool classic fantasy setting.
September 23, 2024
An enjoyable, cozy read with heart! There's a frame story in the present day of the story, but much of the action takes place in the past, where we see our dragon main character over time as he watches over, is helpful, and then maybe less than helpful to the people of a city.
There's some excellent dialogue, a really strong emotional core to the story, and I was invested in the characters. My biggest complaint? It was short and I wanted more!
There's some excellent dialogue, a really strong emotional core to the story, and I was invested in the characters. My biggest complaint? It was short and I wanted more!
November 4, 2024
Thoughts up at
http://onereadingnurse.com/2024/11/04...
Thanks so much to Laura Huie for the Audible code to check out The Sunset Sovereign! This is a short audiobook at only five hours, performed by Ethan Fifield.
Overall it was a good read/listen. A hero is sent to vanquish the terrible dragon Vakandi once and for all, and the dragon is like *blinks* am I being rude? Have some breakfast!
I wasn’t sure what I was expecting at first but quickly fell into the story of Vakandi’s life, interspersed with how he was feeding the assassin lunch and trying to figure out where he stood with the populace now. Like a typical “cozy” the world tends to focus only on what you need to know to appreciate the story, which it accomplishes.
A lot of it boiled down to Vakandi not being good at setting boundaries. (Speaking of boiling, he also makes a mean cauldron of soup). The people either over relied on him or started to drift away, and it seems like he never knew how to facilitate a happy medium. There’s also the war (which confused me a tiny bit) and now, here we are after many years and the populace no longer wants him around at all!
It’s well written and engaging and Ethan Fifield might be a bit dramatic, but is a good narrator. YA readers can definitely check this one out while I think adults will enjoy the themes about boundaries and codependency. A book for everyone!
http://onereadingnurse.com/2024/11/04...
Thanks so much to Laura Huie for the Audible code to check out The Sunset Sovereign! This is a short audiobook at only five hours, performed by Ethan Fifield.
Overall it was a good read/listen. A hero is sent to vanquish the terrible dragon Vakandi once and for all, and the dragon is like *blinks* am I being rude? Have some breakfast!
I wasn’t sure what I was expecting at first but quickly fell into the story of Vakandi’s life, interspersed with how he was feeding the assassin lunch and trying to figure out where he stood with the populace now. Like a typical “cozy” the world tends to focus only on what you need to know to appreciate the story, which it accomplishes.
A lot of it boiled down to Vakandi not being good at setting boundaries. (Speaking of boiling, he also makes a mean cauldron of soup). The people either over relied on him or started to drift away, and it seems like he never knew how to facilitate a happy medium. There’s also the war (which confused me a tiny bit) and now, here we are after many years and the populace no longer wants him around at all!
It’s well written and engaging and Ethan Fifield might be a bit dramatic, but is a good narrator. YA readers can definitely check this one out while I think adults will enjoy the themes about boundaries and codependency. A book for everyone!
August 1, 2024
A wonderfully unique dragons tale that sucks you in to the story of a lifetime.
The author paints a wonderful picture describing why it’s always important to get both sides. Visual, charming and emotional.
The author paints a wonderful picture describing why it’s always important to get both sides. Visual, charming and emotional.
August 17, 2024
I adored this story!
It was refreshing to read a fantasy from the dragon’s perspective. How and why he ruled over Vakfored and he protected it for hundreds of years.
We get very vivid worldbuilding and the two main characters, Sisal the human female and Vakandi, the sagacious dragon.
This is short for a fantasy book and anyone could enjoy this very much. It’s a good read out loud story for children too.
It was refreshing to read a fantasy from the dragon’s perspective. How and why he ruled over Vakfored and he protected it for hundreds of years.
We get very vivid worldbuilding and the two main characters, Sisal the human female and Vakandi, the sagacious dragon.
This is short for a fantasy book and anyone could enjoy this very much. It’s a good read out loud story for children too.
August 28, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM
Full video review on my BOOKTUBE CHANNEL
"The Sunset Sovereign" by Laura Huie is a delightful gem in the realm of cozy fantasy, that shows a refreshing take on the dragon mythos through the lens of a wise and ancient creature.
This novel, which I had the pleasure of reading for the SPFBO 10, stands out not just for its engaging story but for its introspective and heartfelt portrayal of a dragon’s relationship with the city he helped to build.
The story centers around a dragon who, many years ago, took it upon himself to guide and protect a group of refugees, helping them establish a city that would grow into a hub of wealth and culture.
This dragon, whose perspective we follow, becomes an unexpectedly charming and relatable narrator, despite his otherworldly nature. His recounting of the city's history and his evolving role within it is both deeply personal and rich with the kind of wisdom that only centuries of life can bestow.
Huie does an excellent job of balancing the dragon's grandeur with moments of pettiness and humor, making him a complex and endearing character. The novel’s narrative structure—unfolding through the dragon’s dialogue with an assassin sent to kill him—adds a layer of tension and intimacy, as he seeks to explain his side of the story. This setup allows for a gradual reveal of the city’s transformation and the shifting perceptions of its inhabitants towards their once-revered protector.
One of the most striking aspects of "The Sunset Sovereign" is its thematic depth. The novel explores the nuances of guardianship, the burden of expectations, and the bittersweet nature of letting go. The dragon, who serves as both protector and founder of the city, sees its inhabitants as his hatchlings. This paternal relationship is fraught with internal conflict as he grapples with the urge to shield them from harm while acknowledging their burgeoning desire for autonomy. His struggle is a poignant reflection of the complexities inherent in human relationships, particularly the parental instinct to safeguard one's children against the world’s dangers contrasted with the painful necessity of allowing them to grow, make mistakes, and ultimately forge their own paths. The dragon’s journey is emblematic of the universal parental experience: the delicate balance between nurturing and letting go, supporting and stepping back. This dynamic is rendered with such emotional resonance that it becomes a mirror for readers to examine their own familial bonds. The narrative deftly portrays the evolving relationship between the dragon and the city, illustrating how parental love, no matter how well-intentioned, can sometimes stifle growth and how true care often requires the courage to step aside. This theme of parenthood is enriched by the dragon’s personal reflections and the poignant moments of realization that his role as a guardian is both a gift and a burden, ultimately underscoring the painful beauty of watching those we care for seek their own destinies.
The ending of the book, without giving too much away, is both bittersweet and deeply moving. It offers a reflective and poignant conclusion that underscores the themes of growth, change, and the inevitable passage of time. The dragon’s journey from a revered founder to a perceived tyrant is a powerful commentary on how roles and relationships evolve over time, often leading to misunderstandings and unintended consequences.
Another compelling aspect of "The Sunset Sovereign" is the character of the female warrior, who encapsulates the journey of all the citizens from distrust to understanding. Initially tasked with assassinating the dragon she sees as a tyrant, her interactions with him lead to a profound shift in perspective. Her journey mirrors the evolution of the city's relationship with its guardian, transitioning from suspicion and fear to mutual respect and comprehension. This dynamic also parallels the complex relationships between parents and children, where initial rebellion and resistance give way to empathy and appreciation. The warrior's transformation underscores the novel's deeper themes of growth, acceptance, and the delicate balance of power and love in any relationship. Her character arc is not just a personal evolution but a reflection of the collective journey of the city’s inhabitants.
Overall, "The Sunset Sovereign" is a very well written, atmospheric tale that skillfully blends the fantastical with the deeply human. Its short length works to its advantage, keeping the story tight and impactful without overstaying its welcome.
Laura Huie’s storytelling is poetic and evocative, ensuring that every word serves a purpose and enhances the narrative. This brevity allows the plot to remain focused and the emotional beats to hit with greater force, making the novel a standout in the cozy fantasy genre. The concise format also ensures that readers remain fully engaged, with no extraneous details to detract from the core themes and character development.
Whether you are a fan of dragons, heartfelt narratives, or simply a good story well told, this book is a must-read. The economy of words in "The Sunset Sovereign" means that each scene is meticulously crafted, offering a rich, immersive experience that lingers long after the final page. I highly recommend it and look forward to more works from this talented author.
Full video review on my BOOKTUBE CHANNEL
"The Sunset Sovereign" by Laura Huie is a delightful gem in the realm of cozy fantasy, that shows a refreshing take on the dragon mythos through the lens of a wise and ancient creature.
This novel, which I had the pleasure of reading for the SPFBO 10, stands out not just for its engaging story but for its introspective and heartfelt portrayal of a dragon’s relationship with the city he helped to build.
The story centers around a dragon who, many years ago, took it upon himself to guide and protect a group of refugees, helping them establish a city that would grow into a hub of wealth and culture.
This dragon, whose perspective we follow, becomes an unexpectedly charming and relatable narrator, despite his otherworldly nature. His recounting of the city's history and his evolving role within it is both deeply personal and rich with the kind of wisdom that only centuries of life can bestow.
Huie does an excellent job of balancing the dragon's grandeur with moments of pettiness and humor, making him a complex and endearing character. The novel’s narrative structure—unfolding through the dragon’s dialogue with an assassin sent to kill him—adds a layer of tension and intimacy, as he seeks to explain his side of the story. This setup allows for a gradual reveal of the city’s transformation and the shifting perceptions of its inhabitants towards their once-revered protector.
One of the most striking aspects of "The Sunset Sovereign" is its thematic depth. The novel explores the nuances of guardianship, the burden of expectations, and the bittersweet nature of letting go. The dragon, who serves as both protector and founder of the city, sees its inhabitants as his hatchlings. This paternal relationship is fraught with internal conflict as he grapples with the urge to shield them from harm while acknowledging their burgeoning desire for autonomy. His struggle is a poignant reflection of the complexities inherent in human relationships, particularly the parental instinct to safeguard one's children against the world’s dangers contrasted with the painful necessity of allowing them to grow, make mistakes, and ultimately forge their own paths. The dragon’s journey is emblematic of the universal parental experience: the delicate balance between nurturing and letting go, supporting and stepping back. This dynamic is rendered with such emotional resonance that it becomes a mirror for readers to examine their own familial bonds. The narrative deftly portrays the evolving relationship between the dragon and the city, illustrating how parental love, no matter how well-intentioned, can sometimes stifle growth and how true care often requires the courage to step aside. This theme of parenthood is enriched by the dragon’s personal reflections and the poignant moments of realization that his role as a guardian is both a gift and a burden, ultimately underscoring the painful beauty of watching those we care for seek their own destinies.
The ending of the book, without giving too much away, is both bittersweet and deeply moving. It offers a reflective and poignant conclusion that underscores the themes of growth, change, and the inevitable passage of time. The dragon’s journey from a revered founder to a perceived tyrant is a powerful commentary on how roles and relationships evolve over time, often leading to misunderstandings and unintended consequences.
Another compelling aspect of "The Sunset Sovereign" is the character of the female warrior, who encapsulates the journey of all the citizens from distrust to understanding. Initially tasked with assassinating the dragon she sees as a tyrant, her interactions with him lead to a profound shift in perspective. Her journey mirrors the evolution of the city's relationship with its guardian, transitioning from suspicion and fear to mutual respect and comprehension. This dynamic also parallels the complex relationships between parents and children, where initial rebellion and resistance give way to empathy and appreciation. The warrior's transformation underscores the novel's deeper themes of growth, acceptance, and the delicate balance of power and love in any relationship. Her character arc is not just a personal evolution but a reflection of the collective journey of the city’s inhabitants.
Overall, "The Sunset Sovereign" is a very well written, atmospheric tale that skillfully blends the fantastical with the deeply human. Its short length works to its advantage, keeping the story tight and impactful without overstaying its welcome.
Laura Huie’s storytelling is poetic and evocative, ensuring that every word serves a purpose and enhances the narrative. This brevity allows the plot to remain focused and the emotional beats to hit with greater force, making the novel a standout in the cozy fantasy genre. The concise format also ensures that readers remain fully engaged, with no extraneous details to detract from the core themes and character development.
Whether you are a fan of dragons, heartfelt narratives, or simply a good story well told, this book is a must-read. The economy of words in "The Sunset Sovereign" means that each scene is meticulously crafted, offering a rich, immersive experience that lingers long after the final page. I highly recommend it and look forward to more works from this talented author.
December 3, 2023
Sisal, an adventurer intent on slaying the dragon and freeing her people, has prepared for this day for years. Kill the dragon and end its tyrannical reign. What she didn't expect was for the dragon mid-battle to stop and offer her a deal. To eat some soup and listen to his tale, if she agrees he will leave forever. But history is written by the victors, the truth of her peoples past and that of the dragons is not quite what she expected.
The Sunset Sovereign is a delightful, cozy read where both hero and reader try to untangle the past to discover the truth of the present. What shone brightly in this story was the relationship between parent and child, even if the parent is an ancient dragon and the child the city of Vakfored.
As a parent I found I was always siding with Vakandi with his thousands of years of wisdom and experience, who try as he might wanted to help his people grow and prosper only for them to never listen. While I'm sure other readers will resonate with the people of Vakfored, wanting to do things their own way, ignoring the overbearing parent, while naively believing they will be always there to protect them. Vakandi just wanted what was best for his people, his love for them is eternal, even when they send adventurers to kill him.
This novel is a wonderful, easy, and cozy read that culminates in one final epic battle that not only shook the world of Vakfored but the readers understand of everything finally fell into place. It was masterfully crafted, building up the layer of the story and leaving us wondering how things deteriorated so far. I loved the twists and turns and still think about this story days after I finished it.
The Sunset Sovereign is a delightful, cozy read where both hero and reader try to untangle the past to discover the truth of the present. What shone brightly in this story was the relationship between parent and child, even if the parent is an ancient dragon and the child the city of Vakfored.
As a parent I found I was always siding with Vakandi with his thousands of years of wisdom and experience, who try as he might wanted to help his people grow and prosper only for them to never listen. While I'm sure other readers will resonate with the people of Vakfored, wanting to do things their own way, ignoring the overbearing parent, while naively believing they will be always there to protect them. Vakandi just wanted what was best for his people, his love for them is eternal, even when they send adventurers to kill him.
This novel is a wonderful, easy, and cozy read that culminates in one final epic battle that not only shook the world of Vakfored but the readers understand of everything finally fell into place. It was masterfully crafted, building up the layer of the story and leaving us wondering how things deteriorated so far. I loved the twists and turns and still think about this story days after I finished it.
December 16, 2025
I am a dragon.
I have so many Kindle books and problems that I'm pretty sure I am one.
So when this popped up, it felt more different than "I'M GOING TO SOLVE PROBLEMS BY SHOVING MY SWORD DOWN THIS SEXUAL METAPHOR" or "THIS SCHOOL FOR MAGIC IS FOR FAERIES" (that last one I know some of y'all in my mutuals would buy that nonstop and do semi-racist cosplays of characters from it)
So, January, I was like, yeah I'll finish this, no problem. Then...LIFE happened and here we are a year later it took me to read almost 200 pages.
So when I booted my Kindle, creaked, and sobbed as it wondered why I abandoned him for so long, and booted up the first thing I wanted to read, The Sunset Sovereign.
/
What Sunset Sovereign does a little differently from the herd is that they payed attention to what cycles are happening IRL and decided that, maybe it's the time to slow down, not speed up, our attention spans. That's what Huie does.
You are taken by the beginning of this spell where it takes a few chapters to really get your barings and then through effective smoke and mirrors are transported to Vakandi's time of telling a tale that, sure on Amazon it'll say it's fucking cozy, but it's more than that.
/
Huh, we're jumping to the Dissection? Yeah I decided that yes, maybe people's attention spans can at least read more than just rely on a review.
So, there.
Prose:
It's neither bad or good. In certain places it can feel clunky and repetitive, but maybe that's what you needed and not something that assumes you understand something first shot. In other places it assumes that yes, reader, YOU HAVE A BRAIN, which hit the mark correctly.
Pace:
I want to say the Sisal chapters and the Vakandi chapters both mimic fast and slow paces. Which ones they are, I'll leave that up to the reader. But last 25% of the book just was like, fuck this, I'm taking the Kindle to my room, don't END PLEASE!
Plot:
So, you know how it will end. You know how it's going to go down. What you don't expect is what feelings this might make you feel. Anger, sadness, joy, hope.
Vibe:
It's more or less what the blurb advertises that this is a memoir and such so the vibe is sorta like a grandfather kinda done with his granddaughter's shit and telling his memoir of Vakfored. I wouldn't say it's sad, more of, reciting history.
Characters:
We focus on the story of simultaneously of Vakandi the dragon, and Sisal the famed warrior going to save the day. They are fleshed 3D and the side characters that we're introduced to along the way are like more or less the same oddly enough. This is a character history drama fantasy and it really did well portraying it.
Worldbuilding:
This is why I deducted it from a 5 star. The prose is not the offender. I only feel like Huie could have played around a bit more with its magic system. Beasts acting like they're playing Civ V was a good twist but the base human magic just felt like it could have been a little bit branched out on. I usually weigh worldbuilding more than prose, however it depends on book to book. This time around I applaud merits where it's due, it's just this one fact made me feel this can't have a 5 star yet.
However, I am interested if Huie has a world where the sea creature could have a memoir or the earth creature. There is good potential in that. I imagine their stories would be vastly different and it would be fun to play around them.
/
Still a good grab on Kindle shop, I would consider getting the physical copy as looking from a pages from a different review on Amazon made me see they put effort into them.
Morgan Stang will have company on my mythical physical indie shelf one day.
You may have your place on that shelf when I'm made of money, Huie.
So, who should read this book?
Read if you really need a break from the usual shit on Kindle and need something to ground you.
And also you're a fan of Civ games done via a Dragon
4.3/5
I have so many Kindle books and problems that I'm pretty sure I am one.
So when this popped up, it felt more different than "I'M GOING TO SOLVE PROBLEMS BY SHOVING MY SWORD DOWN THIS SEXUAL METAPHOR" or "THIS SCHOOL FOR MAGIC IS FOR FAERIES" (that last one I know some of y'all in my mutuals would buy that nonstop and do semi-racist cosplays of characters from it)
So, January, I was like, yeah I'll finish this, no problem. Then...LIFE happened and here we are a year later it took me to read almost 200 pages.
So when I booted my Kindle, creaked, and sobbed as it wondered why I abandoned him for so long, and booted up the first thing I wanted to read, The Sunset Sovereign.
/
What Sunset Sovereign does a little differently from the herd is that they payed attention to what cycles are happening IRL and decided that, maybe it's the time to slow down, not speed up, our attention spans. That's what Huie does.
You are taken by the beginning of this spell where it takes a few chapters to really get your barings and then through effective smoke and mirrors are transported to Vakandi's time of telling a tale that, sure on Amazon it'll say it's fucking cozy, but it's more than that.
/
Huh, we're jumping to the Dissection? Yeah I decided that yes, maybe people's attention spans can at least read more than just rely on a review.
So, there.
Prose:
It's neither bad or good. In certain places it can feel clunky and repetitive, but maybe that's what you needed and not something that assumes you understand something first shot. In other places it assumes that yes, reader, YOU HAVE A BRAIN, which hit the mark correctly.
Pace:
I want to say the Sisal chapters and the Vakandi chapters both mimic fast and slow paces. Which ones they are, I'll leave that up to the reader. But last 25% of the book just was like, fuck this, I'm taking the Kindle to my room, don't END PLEASE!
Plot:
So, you know how it will end. You know how it's going to go down. What you don't expect is what feelings this might make you feel. Anger, sadness, joy, hope.
Vibe:
It's more or less what the blurb advertises that this is a memoir and such so the vibe is sorta like a grandfather kinda done with his granddaughter's shit and telling his memoir of Vakfored. I wouldn't say it's sad, more of, reciting history.
Characters:
We focus on the story of simultaneously of Vakandi the dragon, and Sisal the famed warrior going to save the day. They are fleshed 3D and the side characters that we're introduced to along the way are like more or less the same oddly enough. This is a character history drama fantasy and it really did well portraying it.
Worldbuilding:
This is why I deducted it from a 5 star. The prose is not the offender. I only feel like Huie could have played around a bit more with its magic system. Beasts acting like they're playing Civ V was a good twist but the base human magic just felt like it could have been a little bit branched out on. I usually weigh worldbuilding more than prose, however it depends on book to book. This time around I applaud merits where it's due, it's just this one fact made me feel this can't have a 5 star yet.
However, I am interested if Huie has a world where the sea creature could have a memoir or the earth creature. There is good potential in that. I imagine their stories would be vastly different and it would be fun to play around them.
/
Still a good grab on Kindle shop, I would consider getting the physical copy as looking from a pages from a different review on Amazon made me see they put effort into them.
Morgan Stang will have company on my mythical physical indie shelf one day.
You may have your place on that shelf when I'm made of money, Huie.
So, who should read this book?
Read if you really need a break from the usual shit on Kindle and need something to ground you.
And also you're a fan of Civ games done via a Dragon
4.3/5
April 3, 2024
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.
Long form review available on SFF Insiders
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.
Long form review available on SFF Insiders
August 31, 2023
I received this book as an arc. This adventure was told by a Dragon. He told a warrior about how he taught others to take care of themselves and the magic around them. Amazing!
December 1, 2023
Scrapping 3.5 stars but not getting there. As nice as it is (and it is, if you want a nice novella for an afternoon, grab this) the intentional use of clichées and tropes and their overturn was a bit repetitive at the beginning.
But the story kept me going to a satisfying ending. I started to like the dragon (even if he was an annoying sometimes, a bit smug in his prowress).
Every other character was flat next to him but since they were footnotes in his story there was no progression and/or growth to expect.
I was happy with what I got and will gladly read some more of the author, they have fun ideas.
But the story kept me going to a satisfying ending. I started to like the dragon (even if he was an annoying sometimes, a bit smug in his prowress).
Every other character was flat next to him but since they were footnotes in his story there was no progression and/or growth to expect.
I was happy with what I got and will gladly read some more of the author, they have fun ideas.
September 29, 2023
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!
Note: I received this as an ARC and this is my genuine, unbiased opinion!
August 2, 2024
3.5⭐️The Sunset Sovereign is unlike other dragon books; as it is told mostly from the dragon’s point of view. An assassin is sent to slay the dragon who has been a tyrannical guardian of her city of centuries. Once the assassin arrives, the dragon makes a deal with her that will enable him to tell her his side of the story.
It is truly a unique story and I was happy with how it ended. There were parts that I loved but other parts where I was having trouble staying engaged. I wish there were more parts of present day sprinkled into the flashbacks.
If you like dragon books and are looking for a quick novella, I would check this out!
It is truly a unique story and I was happy with how it ended. There were parts that I loved but other parts where I was having trouble staying engaged. I wish there were more parts of present day sprinkled into the flashbacks.
If you like dragon books and are looking for a quick novella, I would check this out!
September 29, 2023
I was an ARC reader and thankful for the opportunity. If you want a light , fairy tale read , this book is for you. I’d give it 3.8 stars but I like my books a little longer with more characters along with twists and turns. I read it in two evenings but personally , just wanted a little more depth. I feel like this should have been a novella
September 23, 2023
This story had me hooked right from the beginning. It begins with a chosen warrior, named Sisal, who’s quest is to fight the dragon who dwells atop a mountain that over looks her village of Vakfored. The dragon, Vakandi Foreldi, is not who the villagers says he is. He becomes a beloved character, in my opinion. After the fight with Sisal, he offers for her to come inside his cave and listen to his side of the story. He explains that he is not this feared creature the village has made him out to be. I loved how the story is told from the dragon’s perspective. I loved how warm and inviting Vakandi is and I truly didn’t want the story to end. I really hope there will be a sequel to this book!!
October 13, 2024
Didn't really float my boat, I had a job staying engaged through some of it, however it was a nice little cozy read to wile away a dreary day. 2.5 stars
September 26, 2023
Thank you to C. D Houck for the opportunity to read your book. This book reminds us that there is always 2 sides to a story. Sisal who hated the dragon who's main goal was to kill the dragon, after hearing the dragon's side of the story changed her mind and how she felt about the dragon. It was a quick read but well worth it, well written. Hope there will be sa sequel. 🌹
September 25, 2023
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.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2023
I read this as an arc!
Really good book. I enjoyed the message in it of forgiveness and how there are two sides to history. It had a really interesting way of telling the story, through flashbacks. I enjoyed it! If you love history I think you will enjoy this book! It als9 shows how appearances can be deceiving. Both main characters were very compelling and it was interesting to see how Sisals perception of the Dragon she had been taught to hate changed.
Really good book. I enjoyed the message in it of forgiveness and how there are two sides to history. It had a really interesting way of telling the story, through flashbacks. I enjoyed it! If you love history I think you will enjoy this book! It als9 shows how appearances can be deceiving. Both main characters were very compelling and it was interesting to see how Sisals perception of the Dragon she had been taught to hate changed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2023
This was amazing I love dragons. It was a good story I look forward to another book if there is going to be one!
August 17, 2025
The atmosphere was set perfectly for this book! I felt like I was in the cave with them!
January 16, 2025
My thanks to the author for sending me an audible code for this book- it paired nicely with my kindle edition:)
Y’all. This book is fantastic. Equal parts thought provoking and hilarious, it tells the story of a dragon killer tasked with hearing the dragon’s side of history. An excellent example of how history always has two sides— and how sometimes the truth isn’t as black and white as one side painted it. Is the dragon really the bad guy in this situation?
The narrator, when performing the dragon’s lines, has set the standard for how all dragons talk in my head from now on. I loved listening to this as it transported me to a vivid world I could clearly picture (often at the detriment of my chores). I absolutely recommend this book!
Y’all. This book is fantastic. Equal parts thought provoking and hilarious, it tells the story of a dragon killer tasked with hearing the dragon’s side of history. An excellent example of how history always has two sides— and how sometimes the truth isn’t as black and white as one side painted it. Is the dragon really the bad guy in this situation?
The narrator, when performing the dragon’s lines, has set the standard for how all dragons talk in my head from now on. I loved listening to this as it transported me to a vivid world I could clearly picture (often at the detriment of my chores). I absolutely recommend this book!
December 2, 2023
Vakandi is a dragon who helped his new human friends construct the small settlement of Vakfored. The humans loved him, and he protected them and their lands. For hundreds of years, the citizens of Vakfored sought his help and counsel, and he took care of them as his "hatchlings". But over the course of hundreds of years, as Vakfored grew into a bustling city, it's citizens began to forget why they loved their dragon. They even started to hate him. So when the assassin Sisal arrives to slay him, he invites her in for soup and a story.
This book is so cute and cozy! It's a fun fast read about a dragon's life and the events that transpired to make his humans hate him. I was able to read it in about four hours and used it as a palate cleanser to rid myself of a book hangover. It hit the spot!
This book is so cute and cozy! It's a fun fast read about a dragon's life and the events that transpired to make his humans hate him. I was able to read it in about four hours and used it as a palate cleanser to rid myself of a book hangover. It hit the spot!
October 21, 2023
I really loved this book--I thought it was a wonderful balance of good and intricate character work and a fun frame story-within-a-story that gave a lot of depth to its two main characters--the dragonslayer Sisal and the dragon, Vakandi, whom she is sent to slay.
The core conceit, the dragon’s point of view in a tale of dragon-slaying, is dramatically impactful but also offers a layer of character development for each of them. This is a story about the power of story, and it does that really well.
The core conceit, the dragon’s point of view in a tale of dragon-slaying, is dramatically impactful but also offers a layer of character development for each of them. This is a story about the power of story, and it does that really well.
December 1, 2024
A nice tale about the pitfalls of being a benevolent protector.
The name the dragon gave to his people was foreboding, when you get its meaning.
What if a parent did live longer than their offspring ? What then would drive the children to grow ?
The result is a situation that is a shared fault, and requires a sacrifice to mend.
A bit tropey now and then, but well done.
The name the dragon gave to his people was foreboding, when you get its meaning.
What if a parent did live longer than their offspring ? What then would drive the children to grow ?
The result is a situation that is a shared fault, and requires a sacrifice to mend.
A bit tropey now and then, but well done.
October 18, 2023
This was such a stunning and captivating read! A cozy and pallet cleans read for me. The imagery was beautifully written so I was able to visual the scenes and everything that was happening, which I love. I also love that this was told from a dragons point of view, it made the book so unique and even more lovable. The world building was amazing in my opinion! I thought I had a love for dragons before but I now have an obsession thanks to this book! C.D. Houck is an amazing and talented writer, I hope to see a sequel to this and can't wait to see what else this author comes up with! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!
March 24, 2024
What does the world look like through the eyes of a dragon?
Experience how the world changes throughout the ages from the perspective of a dragon.
I judged this book by its beautiful cover, and I'm glad I did. This was a unique take on fantasy, I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Experience how the world changes throughout the ages from the perspective of a dragon.
I judged this book by its beautiful cover, and I'm glad I did. This was a unique take on fantasy, I enjoyed it thoroughly.
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