Through Blood and Dragons: The Forged and the Fallen, Book 1 by R.M. Schultz is one of those rare gems that immerses you fully into its world almost from the very first page. As someone who has long been captivated by the idea of dragons—those magnificent creatures of fire and might—I was immediately drawn to the promise of a narrative where dragon lore mingles with human emotion, political intrigue, and a fresh take on heroism. Set against a backdrop of war and revenge, this story resonated with me on multiple levels.
At the heart of this tale is Cyran Orendain, a character whose growth is as compelling as the vivid dragons that inhabit his world. Cyran’s journey from a reluctant participant in warfare to a formidable dragon rider is beautifully interwoven with his bond to Eidelmere, a snarky forest dragon burdened by centuries of sorrow. Their unlikely companionship truly highlights a core theme of the book: the power of connection—even among the most broken of souls. I found myself cheering for Cyran as he embraced both his journey and the responsibilities that came with it.
Jaslin, Cyran’s sister, is another standout character. Her quest for self-discovery, as she learns ancient magic and navigates the politics surrounding their kingdom, speaks to the perseverance required in the face of adversity. The interplay between these siblings is rich and heartfelt, offering readers a window into the complexities of familial love amid chaos.
Schultz’s writing style is vivid and immersive, painting a detailed landscape that invites readers to lose themselves in Cimeren, where dragons battle above and treachery lurks below. The pacing, while a touch slow to start, allows for depth in character development and world-building—elements I personally cherish in epic fantasy. I appreciated how the author mixes thrilling combat sequences with quieter moments of introspection. A review highlight encapsulates this well: “The treatment and uses of dragons was very unique,” a sentiment echoed by many readers who found joy in the novel’s innovative approach to dragon lore.
The narrative also employs a clever format of rotating points of view, allowing us to witness the siege of Nevergrace through multiple lenses. This added dimension gives the story a richer texture and heightens suspense as we see how seemingly inconsequential characters reveal unexpected strengths in times of strife.
As I turned the final pages, I felt a yearning for the next installment—a marker of a truly engaging read. This book is more than just a tale of battles and dragons; it’s a poignant reflection on the fragility of alliances and the relentless quest for redemption.
If you delight in beautifully crafted worlds inhabited by complex characters, Through Blood and Dragons is a must-read. It offers both escapism and connection, reminding us of the power of forging bonds, however messy and complicated they may be. As I closed the book, I felt enriched—not just by the adventure, but by the profound messages that lingered in my heart. Whether you’re a devoted fantasy fan or a casual reader seeking a fresh saga, Schultz’s work promises to whisk you away on a remarkable journey through the skies of Cimeren.
You can find Through Blood and Dragons: The Forged and the Fallen, Book 1 here >>