"Dragonsblood" by Todd McCaffrey is a thrilling addition to the Dragonriders of Pern series, which was originally created by his mother, Anne McCaffrey. This book takes readers deeper into the world of Pern, immersing them in the heart of dragonrider culture as they face a deadly plague that threatens the survival of dragons.
The story revolves around Lorana, a young dragonrider who uncovers a dangerous disease known as "dragon sickness." This illness causes dragons to become violent and unpredictable, spreading rapidly and endangering their very existence. In order to save the dragons from extinction, Lorana must unite with other dragonriders and find a cure.
Todd McCaffrey succeeds in preserving the essence of his mother's beloved series while adding his own unique touch. He expands upon the existing world-building and mythology of Pern, offering readers a deeper understanding of its history and the intricacies of dragonrider society.
Available on Audible
The characters in "Dragonsblood" are well-crafted and relatable, each facing their own personal challenges and struggles. Lorana, in particular, stands out as a strong and determined protagonist, captivating readers with her journey.
The plot of the book is fast-paced and brimming with action, suspense, and even a touch of romance. McCaffrey skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, keeping readers enthralled and eager to discover how everything will unfold.
What are readers saying?
"Dragonsblood" by Todd McCaffrey has received a mixed response from readers. Set within the dragon-filled world created by his mother, Anne McCaffrey, the story revolves around Lorana's desperate quest to find a cure for a deadly dragon plague.
Many readers praised Todd McCaffrey's ability to seamlessly continue his mother's dragon universe. They admired his skill in staying true to her style and intricate world-building, to the point where it was difficult to discern the difference between their works. Such praise is a testament to his prowess as a writer.
However, there were readers who felt that Todd McCaffrey failed to capture the magic of his mother's writing. They criticized the lack of depth in the story and the underdeveloped characters. Some perceived the plot to be hurried, and the emotional connection with the dragons and their riders to be weaker compared to Anne McCaffrey's original novels.
Opinions on the character of Lorana were divided among readers. Some admired her determination and courage in the face of a deadly plague. Conversely, others felt that she was depicted as too flawless, lacking in relatable flaws. Some even found the supporting characters to be more interesting and relatable than Lorana herself.
The dragon lore and world-building in "Dragonsblood" received widespread acclaim. Readers appreciated the intricate attention to detail, particularly in the relationships between dragons and their riders. The descriptions of dragon flights and battles were lauded for their excitement and well-written prose. However, some felt that the story relied too heavily on prior knowledge of the dragon universe, potentially alienating newcomers.
Dragonsblood SciFiFantasy EpicAdventure