Dragon Book 1: The Story of the Trung Sisters

by Mel Bridges

In a land where freedom is a distant dream, two unlikely heroes, Trung Trac and Trung Nhi, rise from the ashes of tragedy to challenge the mighty Chinese Empire.

Join their unforgettable journey as they overcome their differences to unite against all odds. Witness the sisters’ flame of rebellion sweep across ancient Vietnam, leaving an indelible mark on history that will inspire generations to come.

Immerse yourself in an epic adventure where two sisters defy convention and spark a revolution. Ignite your own passion for freedom and self-discovery.

Discover the hidden Dragon within.

With book illustrations, maps, historical notes, and a glossary of Vietnamese terms
Trigger mild violence and animal deaths

Genres: Historical Fiction

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2024

About the author

As a first-generation American with roots in Vietnam and California, I’m driven by my analytical background and cultural heritage to write compelling narratives that not only entertain but also illuminate universal truths. By combining research with imaginative storytelling, I create stories that challenge and inspire readers.

As an avid reader, I devour books across multiple genres—young adult, crime/detective, suspense/thrillers, historical fiction, fantasy, gothic, and science fiction. I love stories that linger long after finishing.

Reviews

[Robin Ginther-Venneri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dragon: Book 1 tells the powerful story of two sisters, Trưng Trắc and Trưng Nhị, who rise up against the Chinese Han Dynasty's rule over Vietnam 🇻🇳. Living under harsh conditions, the sisters’ lives change after a personal tragedy 💔, pushing them to fight for their country’s freedom ✊. With the help of a glossary of terms, characters, locations, and historical notes at the back of the book 📖, I found myself flipping back often. It’s clear the author did a lot of research 🔍, and it really shows in the rich historical details. This is a great read for anyone who enjoys historical stories about strong women 💪 and the fight for justice ⚖️.

#HistoricalFiction 📚 #StrongWomen 💪 #VietnameseHistory 🇻🇳 #CourageAndFreedom 🐉 #TrungSisters #MelBridges #EpicRebellion ✊ #MustRead #BookReview

Next Book in This Series:
Dragon: Book 2 Winter 2024

[Charla Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

During the Chinese Han Dynasty’s oppressive power over the Vietnam, the people of Vietnam forced to work their lives away to just keep their families fed. The Chinese Han Dynasty demanded such high taxes that people often died of starvation. It took the bravery of two Vietnamese sisters to lead their people in an uprising against the oppression. This story lays bare the power that two young women had in fighting what seemed to be an impossible battle.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dragon: Book 1

I loved this story. Well written and somehow relatable. I really like how the relationship between the sisters ebbs and flows as life marches on. I especially respect the fact that women are placed in roles that are typically male; but without needing to be “heroes” at that role. It is messy with good intentions and generally agreeable outcomes.

#GoodreadsGiveaways

[Matt Chaika · Rating 3 out of 5]

Won this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.

This book was not something I would probably have read if I didn’t receive it first free, but that said I’m glad I read it. The characters were Interesting, there was action, politics and family drama. I didn’t know a lot about the Viet culture but I think this was a nice sampling of it.

[Anna L · Rating 2 out of 5]

I got this book in a giveaway, and that's the only reason I finished it. The topic is interesting, and not something I knew (or thought) about - but writing is very poor. It reads like a high schooler's (at best, a college freshman's) history research report, rather than a work of historical fiction by a competent writer.

[Ashna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The historical content and characters are intriguing, the writing is clunky.