Books Like...
Set in a futuristic world with a medieval twist, "Dragon's Blood" by Jane Yolen follows the story of Jakkin, a bond servant with a dream of buying his freedom by raising a dragon to fight in the pits. The plot revolves around Jakkin's struggles, ambitions, and the relationships he forms in a society where dragons are trained for sport. The writing style is praised for its easy narrative flow, engaging storytelling, and the creation of a realistic world that draws readers into a society where dragons are fought and trained telepathically by humans.
If you liked Dragon's Blood, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Set in an alternative Egyptian world, 'Joust' follows the journey of Vetch, a young serf who is rescued by a dragon rider, Ari, from his cruel master. As Vetch navigates his new life as a dragon boy, he grapples with questions of loyalty, identity, and the desire for freedom. The story delves into themes of slavery, dragon lore, and the complexities of societal hierarchies, all while showcasing Mercedes Lackey's skill in world-building and character development.
THE hot wind out of the desert withered everything in its path—including anyone so foolish as to be out in the sun at midday. It carried reddish dust and sand on its wings, and used both to scour what... - #2
The Elvenbane is a high fantasy novel set in a world where elves are tyrannical rulers and dragons play a significant role in the story. The main character, Shana, is a half-human, half-elven girl raised by dragons, who possesses unique powers. The book explores themes of rebellion, power struggles, and the discovery of one's true identity. The plot moves quickly with well-developed characters, blending elements of elves, dragons, mages, and half-elves in a captivating narrative style that keeps readers engaged.
SERINA DAETH. I am— Serina Daeth. Serina clung to her name as the only thing she was still certain of, the only thing the sun could not burn away from her. The sun—it was high overhead now, beating do... - #3
'Tooth and Claw' by Jo Walton is a unique and delightful blend of Victorian society and dragons. The story follows a family of dragons navigating a society where power is determined by size and wealth, leading to cannibalistic traditions. Readers are drawn into a world of family disputes, legal controversies, and romantic entanglements, all set in a Victorian-like era where dragons uphold strict societal norms. The writing style mimics the manners and customs of a Victorian novel, with a touch of humor and wit that keeps the readers engaged throughout the book.
Bon Agornin writhed on his deathbed, his wings beating as if he would fly to his new life in his old body. The doctors had shaken their heads and left, even his daughters had stopped telling him he wa... - #4
Jake, a teenage boy living in a dragon preserve, changes the fierce political debate surrounding dragons when he adopts an orphaned baby dragon. The story unfolds with Jake's struggles in communication and his unique experiences with dragons, set in an alternate Earth where these creatures exist and are protected. The narrative is told in a stream of consciousness style from the perspective of a teenage boy, offering a fresh and realistic voice to describe the traumatic and inexplicable events that unfold.
“I don’t know how—I can’t make it a story!” I shout, or rather, I don’t shout, I sort of hiss it through clenched teeth. I want to shout. “It’s not…It doesn’t have…There’s no…” I can’t think how to fi... - #5
'Balanced on the Blade's Edge' by Lindsay Buroker is the first installment in the Dragon Blood series, a steampunk fantasy adventure with elements of magic and dragons. The story follows a smart and caring heroine with a sentient sword as her companion, navigating a world filled with military action and magical encounters. introduces a charming and kind-hearted hero, and the relationship between the two main characters develops as they encounter various challenges in a society that is both futuristic and hostile towards magic.
The writing style in 'Balanced on the Blade's Edge' is praised for its humor, world-building, and engaging characters. Lindsay Buroker's storytelling is described as elegant, with dual points of view that provide a complete and captivating story. sets the stage for a series that includes romance, fantasy, and elements of adventure, appealing to readers who enjoy a mix of magic, romance, and strong character development.
S ardelle stepped out of the cage and stopped so quickly the soldier nearly tripped over her. Icy wind buffeted her, whipping at her dress and raising gooseflesh on her arms. She gaped at the black st... - #6
'Dragon Storm' in the 'Heritage of Power' series by Lindsay Buroker follows the story of Telryn 'Trip' Yert, a pilot in the Iskandian air force, who embarks on a mission with a team of diverse characters to find magical swords and close a portal that is allowing dragons to enter their world. The plot involves battles with pirates and dragons, and the characters, old and new, navigate through challenges, mysteries, and unexpected revelations. The writing style incorporates humor, magic, battles, and a strong focus on character development, set in a world rich with detailed world-building elements.
All six of the men in the group sniggered as Lieutenant Rysha Ravenwood approached. It didn’t matter that they were all enlisted men and she was an officer. Here, training for acceptance into the elit... - #7
In 'Dragon Champion', E.E. Knight follows the journey of AuRon, a dragon born without protective scales, in a world where dragons are hunted to extinction. The book beautifully portrays AuRon's growth from a young hatchling to an adult dragon, navigating a hostile and unfair world while forming friendships and facing enemies. Knight's writing style is praised for its detailed character development, unexpected allies, and unique portrayal of supporting characters like Blackhard the Wolf and Djer the merchant dwarf.
He had only just discovered a new world in the slow awakening, one so different from the muted patterns and colors, muffled echoes and stale tastes of the old. He had been snug in his dark little spac... - #8
'Song in the Silence' by Elizabeth Kerner follows the story of Lanen Kaelar, a strong and independent female character who embarks on a journey to search for dragons from legend. As Lanen achieves her lifelong dream, a series of wondrous events unfold, revealing a world filled with dragons, intricate relationships, and captivating adventures. The novel intricately weaves together themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams, all set in a richly described fantasy world.
Readers are drawn into a well-told fantasy story with well-developed characters, including a dragon named Akor who plays a central role in the narrative. The multiple points of view, particularly those of Lanen and Akor, provide a unique perspective on their evolving relationship and the discovery of dragon culture, making for an engaging and immersive reading experience.
- #9
'Dragon Keeper' by Carole Wilkinson follows the story of a slave girl named Ping who becomes a Dragon Keeper after saving an elderly dragon. Together, they embark on a dangerous journey across China to protect a precious stone vital to the dragon's legacy. Through their adventure, readers are introduced to elements of Chinese history, culture, and mythology, intertwined with themes of courage, independence, and the bond between humans and dragons.
The chatter of cascading water was the only sound that could be heard. It tumbled down a cliff and collected in a wide, dark pool. Beneath the surface, darker shadows circled—the slender, darting bodi... - #10
In the book "Dragon Rider" by Cornelia Funke, readers embark on a magical journey alongside Firedrake, a silver dragon, as he is joined by a brownie and an orphan boy named Ben in a quest to find the legendary valley known as the Rim of Heaven. Along the way, they encounter friendly and unfriendly creatures, while also struggling to evade the relentless pursuit of an old enemy. The story unfolds with elements of adventure, friendship, and the search for a safe haven where dragons can live in peace away from humans.
The narrative in "Dragon Rider" is filled with mythical creatures, magical landscapes, and a quest for a place of sanctuary for dragons. The characters, including Firedrake, Sorrel, Ben, and Twigleg, come together in a tale that teaches about courage, faith, the value of truth, and the true meaning of home. The book's writing style blends traditional myth and legend with fresh qualities, creating a fun and engaging read for fans of fantasy and dragon lore, appealing to both young and older readers.
She glanced warily around again, and then disappeared into the crevice in the rock. There was a large cave behind it. The rat scurried in, but she didn’t get far. Someone grabbed her tail and lifted h...