Fire Rising

Etelador was once a great and powerful realm, where monarchs ruled with the Seven Blessings of the Divine Seven themselves. The ancient Dracone tribe, descended from the Seven, combining the best traits of both human and dragon, have ever been close allies of the Eteladorian people, and together they kept the peace. But after many centuries of amity and prosperity, a dark force raises malcontents into rebellion. This coup wipes out the royal family and plunges the land into despotism. Now ruled by a corrupt council, the people live in fear, knowing that one wrong word can mean imprisonment or death. Their only hope rests in a prophecy left by the Divine Seven, one that says a great Dracone warrior, a Dragon Knight with the heart of a dragon, would arise to bring new blessed rulers to the throne and restore the kingdom to its former glory. Kari, a foundling raised in the Temple of the Guardians in Etelador's capital city Athegate, has been taught this prophecy from a young age but puts little stock in it. Ren Iullius, a senior lieutenant in the Etaladorian army, is a young man determined to protect his family and honor his vow to serve the people. In the wake of devastating personal loss, both learn that they are the ones meant to fulfill this prophecy. Now Kari must face a year of vigorous training before facing the formidable Trial of Fire Rising when she reaches her sixteenth year. Ren, meanwhile, faces the challenge of keeping his family safe after his father's execution and leading a growing resistance. Together, the two must overcome their personal challenges to restore Etelador and fulfill the tasks set for them from birth even as a looming dark force threatens to destroy the future they fight for.

-- Alison Hemmingsen