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MY ⭐️ RATING: 4.75/5
Format: eAdvanced Reader Copy
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Centuries ago, the mighty Dragon Commonwealth fragmented after warring with the KyuSan sorcerers. In the years since, the different types of dragons have retreated to their driftlands, floating mountains hanging above the endless Boiling Deep.
When Korlana, niece to the queen of Tamost, sees a tantalizing driftland covered in ancient ruins pass below her home, she bullies her best friend into joining her on an adventure. After descending to explore the sprawling remains, the young dragons learn that the KyuSan are using this driftland as a launch point for their next invasion. While spying on the invaders, Korlana discovers her aunt, the queen of Tamost, has betrayed her subjects and made a deal with the foul sorcerers.
Faced with Nox Mortua, dragons who prey on other dragons, Rockspur, with their stone melting breath, and an army of evil KyuSan sorcerers, Korlana must find a way to save her home.
RELEASE DATE: 7/1/25
MY REVIEW
For someone known for dark fantasy so intense that your nightmares have nightmares, Fletcher takes a delightful detour with the roaring success Descent to Azakmar, a heroic middle-grade fantasy he wrote with his daughter’s input, shaping its vibrant characters. This personal touch shines through in a sincere, fun story that proves Fletcher’s remarkable range as an author. Imagine The Lion King but with dragons, or a dragon-focused How to Train Your Dragon-there’s a lively spirit here, balanced with gut-wrenching emotional depth, which Fletcher nails just as well.
The story is set in a breathtaking world of floating driftlands above the mysterious Boiling Deep, Descent to Azakmar follows Korlana, a spirited young Aviad dragon as she embarks on an adventure to the forgotten driftland of Azakmar, only to discover her aunt, the Aviad Queen, is entangled in a shocking alliance with the KyuSan, threatening Tamost’s future. She teams up with a fierce, diverse crew of female characters, including Razak and EliXyr who help her navigate a web of mistrust and ancient secrets to protect her home. It’s a journey of courage and discovery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Fletcher labels this a “heroic” middle-grade fantasy, and that tone shines through in Korlana’s quest. She’s a reluctant hero who grows into her role, uncovering the true history of dragons and unraveling long-held misconceptions. Themes of unity, truth, and overcoming prejudice resonate powerfully, reflecting real-world issues like division and classism, while remaining accessible for younger readers. Unlike many middle-grade books that can feel overly simplistic, this story weaves a layered narrative with emotional depth and nuanced conflicts, making it just as gripping for adults as for kids. The spirited bond between Korlana and her allies adds warmth and humor, balancing the story’s intense moments with a sense of wonder. One scene near the end made me giggle a good bit, a moment straight out of a film that’s hilarious every time l’ve seen it.
The book’s inspirations are clear and well-executed, enhancing its cinematic feel. Korlana’s journey echoes the poignant leadership struggles of The Lion King, while the dragon-centric world and focus on unity across species evoke How to Train Your Dragon, with a Star Wars-like flair in its rebellion against tyranny. I also got a bit of Avatar‘s awe-inspiring visuals of floating lands and primal conflicts mixed into this story as well. Fletcher’s unique world of driftlands, the Great Empty, and the Boiling Deep, deliver a tale of hope and resilience that echoes the best of its inspirations, lingering long after the final page.
What makes Descent to Azakmar truly special is its heart. The father-daughter collaboration infuses the story with warmth, evident in every page. Though labeled “middle-grade,” I found myself enjoying this more than expected and I expect readers of all ages to resonate with it the same as I did, thanks to Fletcher’s skillful writing. This isn’t just a story of dragons, it’s a story of family, within the narrative and in its creation. Whether you’re a young reader or an adult craving a heroic escape, Descent to Azakmar delivers a soaring, unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you soaring too.
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