More Dragons, More Romance
If scientists could tell you how many dragons currently inhabit the wilds of Veriton, we would do so, however, getting a reliable population estimate has proved near impossible. When observed, the dragons just keep flying away.
Kleine’s Guide to Fire-Breathers
I haven’t posted on here for a while because I’ve been a little busy. Long story short, I parted with one agent, queried a new book, got four offers of representation within a month, signed with an amazing new agent (yippee!) and am now neck-deep in edits.
My current book (see this post on my drafting process) is now the longest book I’ve ever written, thanks in part to the aforementioned edits. The long and short of the changes I need to make is: more dragons, more romance.
Okay there’s lots of other important things I need to edit (hello raising stakes, fixing plot holes, the dreaded worldbuilding), but dragons and romance are the ones that have been most fun to do, and the ones I feel are most essential to get right. As I always do when editing, I’ve been looking to existing books for motivation and inspiration. Below are the books I’ve read recently to support my editing process.
MORE DRAGONS
The Liveship Traders Trilogy—Robin Hobb
Dragons have died out from the world… almost! There is so much going on in this epic trilogy, but as it goes on, dragons begin to form a massive part of the story. They’re not cuddly or loveable, but nor are they evil. The creatures are powerful, capricious, intelligent, proud, and sometimes kind of bitchy. This nuanced depiction of dragons, as well as the overarching commentary on the impact of humans on the natural world, means this series is one of my favourites and largest inspirations.
A Natural History of Dragons—Marie Brennan
A noble lady accompanies her husband on a scientific expedition to study dragons. The period feel to this book is what makes it so enjoyable, both in the language and the struggles of our main character to pursue her passions in a patriarchal society. I also love a curiosity-driven character and enjoyed the deep exploration of dragons from a natural science perspective.
A Dance with Dragons—George RR Martin
Of course the dragons are present throughout all the ASOIAF books, but this one is probably my favourite for how it tackles some very realistic issues that dragons would cause—namely, they keep eating sheep, and local farmers are not happy about it. It’s a really clever example of how such a basic question (what do dragons eat?) can drive a much larger plot and have far-reaching, dramatic consequences.
MORE ROMANCE
Modern Divination—Isa Aganajan
A cosy romance between academic-rival witches. I was blown away by this book. There is a murder mystery plot but overall it’s extremely character-led and slow-paced—not normally a style I enjoy, but the prose was so gorgeous and the romance completely compelling. The slowness of the plot allowed the relationship and characters so much space to be explored, and there was so much depth. I have an ARC of the sequel and I can’t wait to sink back into the world.
The Sacred Space Between—Kalie Reid
A slow-burn fantasy romance between an exiled saint and the iconographer who’s been sent to paint them. This is properly slow-burn, a masterclass in tension and yearning. The intimacy depicted is handled with a lot of sensitivity and tenderness. Special shoutout to the setting of Yorkshire-inspired moors, perfect for a moody, pining-filled romance like this.
Immortal Consequences—I.V. Marie
Six students in an academy in the afterlife compete in a competition to change their fates and avoid being trapped in purgatory. With six POV characters and 3 (4? maybe?) different romantic dynamics explored, this book is a masterclass in how to keep readers interested in every single character in an ensemble cast, and how to differentiate relationships. It has basically every trope in the romances. Academic rivals to lovers? Check. Friends to lovers? Check. Found family? Check. There’s so much going on that there is surely something for everyone.
I’m hoping that between reading these books, brainstorming with beloved writer friends and lots of writing time, I’ll be able to do these edits justice. I have a good feeling about this book. I’m already very proud of it, and I’m cautiously optimistic about its chances with editors. But that means the pressure is on to really get this round of edits right!
Wish me luck, and tell me about your favourite dragon books in the comments below…
Naomi Novik’s Temeraire series has some really interesting dragon worldbuilding