I picked up "The Coming of the Dragon" by Rebecca Barnhouse, after reading a review of the companion novel "The Peaceweaver" that is soon to come out.
We have "The Coming" in Juv fiction, but it is well-worth picking up if you love good fantasy. I'll be recommending it to all my teens and some adults as well. It follows the story of Rune, a foundling boy who grows up beneath the watchful gaze of Beowulf, King of the Geats. When he is nearly grown, a tragedy strikes the kingdom - a Dragon awakens and begins to raid the nearby farms and halls. The King, his finest warriors, and Rune, all go out to seek it and slay it before it destroys their lands.
So far, and I'm about halfway through the story, this is a beautifully written tale of adventure, legend and magic. The pacing has been excellent, Rune is a fantastic boy-hero with strengths and flaws, who makes mistakes but has honorable intentions, and carries them out to the best of his ability. The secondary characters are interesting and likeable, and the world-building is very good. Viking/Norse culture really comes alive to the reader.
I would say that if you've read and enjoyed the Ranger's Apprentice series, or the Eragon books, or The Hobbit, you'll love "The Coming of the Dragon" and probably "The Peaceweaver" as well!
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