Lord of Dragons

Emberstone #2

by Kathryn Jordan

Finngavin Ivarsson’s life has already been turned on its head, but hidden secrets and phantom threats don’t make growing up any easier. Betrayal, intrigue and his own feelings of inadequacy weave a burdensome reality for the sixteen-year-old lad. Can Finn overcome the accusations, attacks and insults hurled at him like spears? Can he fulfill the life he was called to, or will he always be limited?

As the threat to his village grows, Finn must find his place, or his enemies may yet find ways to discredit him, leaving him without a purpose or a home.

Lord of Dragons is Book Two of The Emberstone Trilogy, a faith-filled story that weaves Christian themes and scripture into an intricate fantasy world and explores the complexities of growing up in a fun, winding adventure of political intrigue, animal companions and strong friendships, with a dash of sweet romance and mystery.

Paperback

Expected publication January 30, 2026

About the author

Kathryn Jordan is an indie author who writes faith-filled, YA and NA fantasy. She likes to describe herself as neurospicy, slightly unhinged, and unapologetically weird. She enjoys digital art, taking walks, watching crows, and reading books by her fellow indie authors. Much of her time is dedicated to raising and homeschooling her three awesome kids, but creating is a nonnegotiable outlet, a creature within she must heed.

Her works include the Keeper of Light series, The Girl Who Has Stars on Her Shoulder (a companion novel), The Wolf Warden, and House of Dragons (Book One of The Emberstone Trilogy). Visit her official website to explore her books, connect on social media, and more!

Reviews

[Ken]

I enjoyed the first book in this series and was so excited for yhe second book. Oh, Wow! This book has impressed me with how effortlessly it included scripture as a main element in the story. Each of the four houses has a song that is a crucial part of the story. The songs are made up of scripture. I loved seeing how the characters were encouraged and recieved hope and wisdom from the songs. Their desire to live a life in obedience to The Eternal was admirable. This book had so.much encouragement for anyone that has felt discouraged, like they are not enough or have nothing of value to contribute. There is a lame girl and I lived what was said to her when she expressed that sentiment.
My favorite quote
“Because I’m practically useless!” she shot back, then lowered her voice. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to snap at you.” “I used to feel the same way, Freya. I thought I had nothing to contribute. But you know what I’ve seen in you? I’ve seen a woman who brings smiles to people’s faces with her own. I’ve seen a woman who captivates children with her storytelling. A woman who has more grace in her heart than any of the Gracefuls have in their feet. Who are we to limit The Eternal? He wove each of us in our mother’s womb, remember? We are awesomely and wonderfully made. The Eternal wasn’t taken by surprise when you were born with crooked feet. He saw you when you were made in secret. So, no matter what, I know you have an amazing purpose. Maybe you can’t contribute much physically, but your spirit has something far more valuable to offer. Remember that.”
Wow!!!! This book is full of truth.
I cannot recomend this book enough. It is a series I am buying to have on my shelves for my grandkids!
I receieved an ARC copy, all thoughts are my own.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord of Dragons is Book 2 in The Emberstone Trilogy, an adventure-filled fantasy that continues the journey of Finngavin Ivarsson (Finn) and his dragon, Emberstone (Ember). Finn’s character matures as he rises to the escalating challenges first introduced in House of Dragons (Book 1), with the stakes intensifying throughout this second installment.

In Lord of Dragons, Finn’s circle of friends expands, and their relationships are thoughtfully developed and strengthened, adding emotional depth. The plot skillfully weaves suspense and mystery, keeping readers engaged with unexpected twists and surprising turns; in fact, the author delivers a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next book.

Woven throughout the adventure are meaningful Christian themes and Scripture, seamlessly embedded into the narrative and enhancing the overall message. Lord of Dragons is a compelling continuation of the House of Dragons—rich in action, character growth, and faith-filled elements that will resonate with its readers.

I received an ARC copy for an honest review. Thoughts are my own! I highly recommend this book!

[MyWeekendIsBooked7 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finn is struggling to figure out who he’s supposed to be after discovering that his friends have deceived him. This young lad goes through quite a bit. I will say that I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first. There was a lot focused on the awkward relationships between Finn and two girls he liked. I already knew which one he get with, but the miscommunication and avoidance of communication got old quick. This is a YA book so I guess I can’t expect these teens to be that mature. I am now forced to read the third book because the author has wounded my favorite character in the book. Way to torture me. 😭

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Renée Knight · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was both exciting and tender, and if you've read book one, this one gets even better! Finn is such a relatable "human" character. He cries, he struggles with feeling unworthy, afraid, embarrassed, and confused. But, through this story, he grows so much and becomes a wise young man.

Finn must learn how to protect the hearts of the two girls he's friends with, and, even when he knows he's falling in love with one of them, he's careful to approach her respectfully about it. I loved that.

My favorite part of the whole book was how deep and sweet the friendship bonds are. Finn and his group of friends encourage each other, watch out for each other, and have the important task of uniting all the Houses.

Also, maybe the cherry on top is the adorable baby dragon! Ember is so lifelike and cute. I fell in love with her and her antics.

The pacing was perfect - the suspense and adventure come at all the right, surprising points in the story. The themes are unique, but so, so needed in our literature. They include: Learning to be who God made you to be -- you! Facing your fears, mentorship, true friendship, respectful romance, and learning and leaning on Scripture.

This is definitely a book I'd reread and that I hope my kids read when they are teenagers.

[Becky Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this second book in the series. I loved how much the characters have grown and changed, and how the action kept pace. I loved the elements of friendship, the sweet romance, and the adventure. I love Ember--she's such a character! I look forward to finding out what happens next. I would highly recommend this.

[Jessie-Marie Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a coming of age series that has similar vibes to How to Train Your Dragon with biblical applications woven in. It is an epic fantasy for young adults that keeps the reading guessing with every page and plenty of twists along the way. This book is perfect not only for young readers, but adults too who can learn from the many themes as we read the story of Finn and watch him transform from a young boy to a man as he matures and grows in his faith in the Eternal!