Series: The Dragon Warrior #1
Published by Bloomsbury USA Kids on October 15, 2019
Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade
Pages: 288
Format: ARC
Source: Publisher
As a member of the Jade Society, twelve-year-old Faryn Liu dreams of honoring her family and the gods by becoming a warrior. But the Society has shunned Faryn and her brother Alex ever since their father disappeared years ago, forcing them to train in secret.
Then, during an errand into San Francisco, Faryn stumbles into a battle with a demon--and helps defeat it. She just might be the fabled Heaven Breaker, a powerful warrior meant to work for the all-mighty deity, the Jade Emperor, by commanding an army of dragons to defeat the demons. That is, if she can prove her worth and find the island of the immortals before the Lunar New Year.
With Alex and other unlikely allies at her side, Faryn sets off on a daring quest across Chinatowns. But becoming the Heaven Breaker will require more sacrifices than she first realized . . . What will Faryn be willing to give up to claim her destiny?
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I’m delighted to share The Dragon Warrior with y’all. I love middle-grade fantasies because of the magic, the adventure, and most importantly, the message of hope they present.
Today, I’m going to share my thoughts on the novel through a creative review.
Things to Know about the Heaven Breaker’s Role
- Being of mixed blood is a good thing: though this book draws from asian mythology, the protagonist Faryn is of mixed ancestry. This book presents a realistic portrayal of asian biases through the unfavorable treatment towards Faryn and her brother. I like the nod towards racial diversity and the fact that Faryn has strengths to draw from her diverse heritage.
- You may have to work with your former best friend who now shuns you like the rest of your peers, plus two meatheads, and a cute cursed boy who has another side to him: don’t worry, you have your brainiac brother on your side. (Side note: he’s working through family issues, and that may cause some complications later on.)
- You’re going to get your entire world up-ended during your journey: you’ll get betrayed, you’ll learn things about the powers and authority figures you trusted your entire life that you wish you didn’t know, but you’ll also find allies in unexpected places. You’ll also learn that you’re stronger than you thought you were.
- You are the Dragon Master: Imagine being able to call on a legion of one of the most powerful species in existence with a thought and at any time. You’ll learn what it’s like. You’ll also grow a conviction and strength of heart worthy of leading such mighty creatures.
- Your journey is just beginning: the stakes are greater than you knew them to be. Humans, deities, and other beings are taking sides. You too will have to take a stand for what you believe in.
Are you ready to take on the role of Heaven Breaker?
Favorite Quotes
Disclaimer: all quotes are taken from an advanced reader’s copy and may be subject to change in the finished edition.
“Oh, you’ve done it now,” the man roared, landing lightly on his feet in front of me. “I’m going to turn you into ròu bāo zi!”
Note: ròu bāo zi = meat bun
“Guanyin must have taken the sunlight with her. Above us, gray clouds rolled over the city. As though sensing a storm, the four horses pawed at the ground.”
“I didn’t need a power weapon . . . to fight well . . . The skills Ye Ye had taught me made me a true warrior.”
Dani @ Perspective of a Writer says
This sounds super cute!! I hate the cover but middle grade kids are bound to be attracted to it. I love the message that mixed blood is a good thing. I’m not sure why it wouldn’t be as you’re getting two cultures instead of one but I know many think that way.
Crystal says
The cover is definitely recognizable as MG Fantasy given the current trends in cover art. Yeah, based off my experiences with the Asian community, people can get particular with race.
Sophia @ Bookwyrming Thoughts says
Happy to hear you’ve enjoyed this too! I’m curious about the complications that will come up later on, though, but we’ll either find out soon in the future or never find out.
Crystal says
Thanks, Sophia. Yes, I’ll definitely continue the series to find out what happens 🙂
Natalie Aguirre says
I’m interviewing Katie on my blog in two weeks. I am really excited to read this one. It sounds fantastic. Thanks for sharing it with us!
Crystal says
That’s exciting, Natalie. I’ll have to check out your interview with Katie! I hope you enjoy The Dragon Warrior!