EMBERGOLD

A girl confronts the truth about her family’s history and unexpectedly finds love.

Gilde has spent her life isolated in the marshes, living in dread of the dragon that hunts her and her father. The marshland is the only place that can protect them from the water-fearing dragon’s fire, and with her weak heart, Gilde has never dared to leave. But everything changes when she comes of age at 16, and her father reveals he’s found a way to best the dragon. The plot kicks into high gear as Gilde embarks on a journey she knows will change her life forever—but she discovers that not everything is as it seems. After Gilde experiences a terrible betrayal, she finds herself trapped in a castle in the mountains that contains secrets. Her only companion is the dragon, who tells her, “You’re not a prisoner. I rescued you.” But the line between captor and savior blurs as Gilde uncovers more about her tangled world and history. Nelson’s strong plot redeems the occasionally stilted first-person narration and convoluted magic system. Readers will be engaged by the frequent twists and cliffhangers even as Gilde discovers who she is and what she’s willing to fight for. Nelson wraps up her well-paced adventure and sweet romance with a satisfying conclusion that leaves room for a sequel. Major characters are implied white.

An entertaining tale that explores a twist on the maiden-stealing dragon storyline.