A magical dragonfly. A science-focused society. Only one can bring the land and her people from the brink of death.
Seventeen-year-old Governor’s daughter Etoiny longs to throw off her upper-class responsibilities and become the first female scientist of Taachat. When she accidentally wounds a thought-extinct dragonfly, she must race to find a bygone cure in order to present it to the Science Society.
While she researches solutions for the dragonfly, she and the creature form a bond that can't be explained by science. The dragonfly revives dying blooms all Taachat's citizens need to stay alive for the next three-year cycle. Her dead mother’s missing journal could offer insight if only Etoiny could find it.
Etoiny soon realizes two powerful people are on the hunt for the dragonfly and its healing ability. Just as Etoiny finds a way to save her dragonfly, she discovers horrors her father has allowed in the underbelly of Taachat and it makes her question who she wants to be.
Etoiny must decide whether to claim her place as a renowned scientist by offering the creature for experimentation or sacrifice her dream to help her animal friend fulfill a magical destiny.
E. G. Moore is an award-winning poet and children’s literature author, freelance writer, and storyteller. Her essay “Wearing Teresa’s Russet Boots” is featured in Hope Paige’s Anthology on loss published in 2017, and she also helped launch an anthology honoring a local historical building. When she’s not telling “Mommy Made stories” to her three children or working on her latest manuscript, she can be found either enjoying something from her to-read list with a glass of wine or on a plot-and-soul-refreshing run.
As usual, E.G. Moore delivers an adventurous story filled with well-written characters and lovely descriptions. The Last Dragonfly is about one young woman growing into her own power and learning secrets about her world. Etoiny makes several discoveries throughout the book, and her story arc is relatable to anyone who is or has been a teenager. It has science vs magic, power struggles, and a fight for what is right and true. If you like clean YA fantasy, you will love this book!
So good!! Loved the idea, different from other books I've read, which is good! Etoiny is such a strong young woman, can't wait to see what's in store for her in the future!
The Last Dragonfly is a beautifully imaginative and captivating read. The story is set in a richly detailed world where science, magic, and politics uneasily collide. The story follows Etoiny, a fiercely curious young woman determined to break societal expectations and prove herself as a naturalist in a world that dismisses her ambitions. She is torn between her duty as the governor’s daughter and her longing for discovery and freedom. Her friendship with her protector, Morem, adds humor, while the looming presence of the Sablites and their hunt for magic users adds conflict. The discovery of the mythical dragonfly, thought to be extinct, is symbolic. The creature’s presence in the story ties together themes of lost knowledge, wonder, and the thin line between science and magic. The world-building is detailed. From decaying lakes and ancient fountains to rigid political structures and looming famine. The author blends action, emotion, and intrigue, keeping me eager to turn the next page. Overall, The Last Dragonfly is perfect for fans of thoughtful fantasy, coming-of-age stories, and tales where curiosity and courage drive change. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
E.G. Moore writes a fantastical YA tale with The Last Dragonfly. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. One thing I enjoy when reading a fantasy book whether for adults or young adults, is how the authors come up with the interesting names of characters and places as they build a magical world. Etoiny is a young woman, just like her mother, who had a mind of her own. Even though her mother is long gone, she is always with her daughter. Etoiny is interested in science, and she holds on to her mother's memory with her diary and handkerchief. Her father is supportive, but he doesn't always understand his daughter or allow her to wear pants in public, and dress to hide a lot of her beautiful features. In the first chapter, we learn a lot about Etoiny, and her relationships, but also her interest in capturing a spider's web. Told in third person, it gives the reader a grand perspective of each person and being, and why the dragonfly is so important. The author weaves a tangled web of story, and captures the reader. A well-written plot. An embraceable story. Who could ask for more when it's filled with magical/fantastical creatures and other interesting beings? A genuine character driven story! The Last Dragonfly is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
“Sometimes the most delicate things carry the greatest strength”
E.G. Moore explores the dangers of overly controlled societies and the loss of connection to nature with a clear, concise, and rich style with vivid imagery. The protagonist’s journey was very relatable, navigating the line between compliance and rebellion, and I resonated with the importance of asking questions even when it feels dangerous. The story highlights the consequences of forsaking that connection for the sake of technological and societal advancements, but what sets it apart is the focus on a more introspective and emotional journey rather than explosive action. Fans of dystopian fiction who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven narratives and themes of freedom, nature, and societal control will enjoy this. And while the story is dystopian, Moore subtly integrates these modern issues into the fabric of the story, making it both timely and timeless.
Wish we could do half stars. If there is a way let me know how to do it.
After reading this story from beginning to end I must say I became invested in Etoiny's life and what is going to happen to her next. This is a slow-start book that I give 4.5 🌟 to. this is only because my complete attention was not captured until the third chapter. The plot is clear Etoiny's character is well developed and I felt her frustrations on being left in the dark about things in her life and her queasy feeling when a creeper manipulated her.
This book amazed me with its old-fashioned charm and a story full of surprising turns. Despite some missing transitions, the depth of the story, from its well-developed characters to the unexpected twists, really impressed me. I personally recommend it to fans of young adult fantasy. I was especially drawn to Etoiny's struggle between her love for science and the magical mystery of the last dragonfly. This book combines science and fantasy, giving a story that is both deep and magical. A great find for readers who appreciate complexity in their stories!
Good plot, the main character seemed a bit too young for her role, but it all worked out in the end. I love dragons, so I'm going to look for the next book or wait for it to be published as an ebook Hopefully, the suspense will continue in book 2.
This kind of book is usually not my cup of warm cocoa, but putting my personal tastes aside, this book is excellent for writing well-descriptive characters and intriguing twists. I hope that dragon flies. Pun over.
E.G. Moore’s “The Last Dragonfly” weaves together the magic of “Eragon” and the mystery of “The Forgetting” to tell a story of friendship, loyalty, and uncovering truths.
At the center of the tale is Etoiny, a sixteen-year-old girl who’s determined to pursue her love for science in the land of Taachat despite societal pressures as the Governor’s daughter. When she accidentally harms a dragonfly believed to be extinct, she sets off on a journey to find a remedy that can save both the creature and her people.
Through her studies, Etoiny forms a connection with the dragonfly, whose healing abilities are crucial for Taachat’s survival. As she gets deeper into her quest, she turns to her deceased mother’s journal for guidance, unraveling secrets that challenge her beliefs about her father and society.
Etoiny faces many hurdles and must also navigate political intrigue as influential and powerful people wish to exploit the dragonfly’s powers. She grapples with decisions about her ethical values; will she prioritize her scientific ambitions at the expense of her newfound companion, or will she embrace her magical destiny while opposing those who aim to use it for nefarious reasons?
E.G. Moore crafts a captivating story with well-developed characters, like Etoiny, whose kindness, inquisitiveness, and resilience stand out despite her background. Set in a world where science and magic coexist harmoniously, “The Last Dragonfly” has predominant themes of self-discovery, morality, and the importance of companionship and friendship.
I highly recommend this tale to lovers of science, magic, and epic fantasy adventures.