Review of Dragonsoul

[Ann Ogochukwu]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Dragonsoul" by S L Colkin.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Dragonsoul: The New Generation by Sophia L. Colkin presents an unusual blend of science fiction and historical fiction. The metallic hold and the natural wild are two contrasting worlds coexisting in the same country, the United Kingdom. The metallic hold is a technologically advanced world, while the natural wild is a picture straight out of your historical fiction novel. Somehow, these polar opposite worlds exist right next to each other, and when a person is born, they are sent to the world that they are most genetically suited for.

Before dragons disappeared from this world, they transferred their souls to humans, bestowing six royal families of the wild with powers of water, air, fire, earth, nature, and portals. Each dragon walker shares their body with a dragon soul, such that both man and beast become one. The dragon walkers hold the balance of the elements in the wild, maintaining peace and promoting progress. So, whatever technological advantages the hold has—holographic displays, electric cars, and tall buildings slicing into the horizon—the wild compensates for them with dragon magic.

The event that sets the plot rolling is the transfer of dragon souls from one generation to another. This event calls for a great celebration in the wild, and holders are allowed to attend. The only rule for the ceremony is that no one except the outgoing and incoming walkers should see the dragon stone, the vessel holding the dragons’ power. Millie, a neuro nursing student from the hold of Coventry, falls off her stand while trying to take a picture of the wagon carrying the revered dragon stone, falling right beside the wagon. What nobody knows is that Millie accidentally touched and saw the dragon stone during her fall. The outcome of this mistake causes unforeseen chaos in both worlds.

One of the most impressive things about this plot was the functional contrast between the hold and the wild. Regardless of their differences, both sides were crafted to be of the highest quality, so it was quite difficult to choose a favorite part. The setting of this book was equally remarkable. The narrative was set in 2167; however, the conflict that caused the creation of two structurally distinct societies started in 2017. This setting had me thinking whether there might be a bigger aftermath to all the conflicts and disease outbreaks flooding this century.

The characterization of this book is worth special mention too. Merging a human and a dragon into one character is not something I would have easily imagined, but, somehow, the author managed to make it seem normal and real. Another aspect of this book’s characterization that I appreciated was the uniqueness of the wilders and the holders. This was a lengthy read, but I enjoyed it, and I don’t recall ever being bored at any point. I especially appreciate the detailed creation of this book, from the plot to the setting and the characterization. This book’s graphic cover also deserves special commendation; it perfectly depicted the characters and setting. I have mixed feelings about the abrupt and unexpected ending of this story, but I won’t count that as a negative.

I noticed errors I believe a professional editor would have caught, so I don’t think this book was professionally edited. Careful proofreading should tackle these errors, though. Because of the errors I just mentioned, I’m rating Dragonsoul 3 out of 4 stars. On recommendation, this book is perfect for fantasy and historical fiction lovers, as most of the action takes place in the historic wild. This book is also perfect for young adults.

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Dragonsoul
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[Amy Luman]

I’m not sure how a dragon can coexist in the same body as a human. This is fascinating and I can’t wait to find out more.

[Aisha Yakub]

This is a great fantasy plot, and I look forward to reading this. Great review.

[nwankwo chibuchi]

Science fiction is really not my favourite genre but I just might check this one out. Great review by the way.

[Mmaduabuchi Eze]

The aspect of merging humans and dragons is mentally exciting and entertaining. It will certainly make an interesting read.