"Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it. It enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the deserts that our lives have already become." -C.S. Lewis |
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Dragonfire
by Donita K. PaulPublished by: Water Brook Press (2007) 346 pages Rating: 8/10  Buy it Now:  
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When you reach the fourth book in a series, it becomes difficult to write a review that is substantially different from the previous reviews, especially when that series maintains a consistent level of quality throughout.
Donita K. Paul has steadily produced four different novels in a row within this DragonKeeper series, each adding new layers to the story and further developing not only the characters, but also the invented world of Amara, its peoples, landscape and cultures.
Dragonfire presents the biggest jump between stories so far. Our heroes Kale and Bardon are grown up and married (!) and have retreated from the world for a while. Upon their return, they discover that Amara is in a mess. No less than three evil forces are abroad, fighting against each other and the people of the land. The people are tired and dispirited, no longer believing in anything. And as their beliefs fade, it appears Paladin, the land's protector, is dying.
A quick reminder: this series is not entirely new reader friendly. If you haven't been reading all along, this probably isn't a good place to start. Amara is not peopled with the usual fantasy creations, such as elves and dwarves, but a whole menagerie of invented species unique to the series. It can be hard to keep track of, but a handy glossary is provided in each book.
This volume of the series raises odd questions about the nature of Paladin. Up until now, I had assumed he was a Christ-figure, but now I'm not too sure. Some statements and implications given here suggest that may not be entirely accurate. I'm curious to know if I just missed something, or if this is a mystery that will be further developed later.
According to the author, there is one more book in the DragonKeeper series to come, but that won't be the end of stories about Amara. There will be at least three more books set within this world to follow the DragonKeeper series (though perhaps not chronologically). I'll certainly be signed up to go. Recommended.
