DRAGON LIBERATOR

A man who worked with a covert U.S. group that hunts dragons finds himself siding with the winged creatures in the third installment of Baird’s fantasy.

Liam Tryggvison had helped the Program capture dragons, but when he develops a connection with one particular dragon, his attitude shifts. This connection intensifies as Liam discovers he can communicate telepathically with the creature and feel its pain. The dragon, Tryggvi, is currently a captive in the Program’s secret lab in Vermont, where a nefarious colonel oversees biological testing. Joined by former military pilot Rob Grady, who also worked with the Program, and Liam’s friend Erica, Liam plots to free Tryggvi. Offering assistance is the Order of Draco, an enigmatic organization that already has people inside the Program. But Tryggvi isn’t the only dragon imprisoned at the lab. There are individuals, with perhaps more power than the colonel, planning to somehow weaponize primal dragons (which are unlike Tryggvi, who has a human soul). Tryggvi finds others of his kind to combat these primals, and a reluctant Liam may have to become a dragon hunter once again. Baird retains an impressive pace with colorful characters, including Liam, newly introduced dragons, and charming villain Stacy Anastasio. Returning readers anticipating action won’t be disappointed, and the series stays fresh with added elements. For example, the infiltration of the Vermont lab turns James Bond–esque, complete with Liam’s father, Jim, providing a Q-like presence. Baird rounds out the story with a few shocks— primarily deaths—and a ground-shaking battle scene in the final act. While further series volumes are certainly possible, this third installment has a definitive, thoroughly gratifying conclusion.

A spirited, enjoyable tale that completes a persistently entertaining trilogy.