Welcome to the Official Blog Tour for historical fantasy author Justin Newland's The Old Dragon's Head. Today, on our tour stop, we have my review to share. We also have a tour-wide giveaway to share, too! So... Be sure to take a look at what my thoughts on this historical fantasy and grab your copy now! Follow the tour, HERE.
Genre:
Adult
Historical Fantasy/Folklore
Publish Date:
October 8, 2018
Publisher:
Matador
Synopsis:
Constructed of stone and packed earth, the Great Wall of 10,000 li protects China’s northern borders from the threat of Mongol incursion. The wall is also home to a supernatural beast: the Old Dragon. The Old Dragon’s Head is the most easterly point of the wall, where it finally meets the sea.
In every era, a Dragon Master is born. Endowed with the powers of Heaven, only he can summon the Old Dragon so long as he possess the dragon pearl.
It’s the year 1400, and neither the Old Dragon, the dragon pearl, nor the Dragon Master, has been seen for twenty years. Bolin, a young man working on the Old Dragon’s Head, suffers visions of ghosts. Folk believe he has yin-yang eyes and other paranormal gifts.When Bolin’s fief lord, the Prince of Yan, rebels against his nephew, the Jianwen Emperor, a bitter war of succession ensues in which the Mongols hold the balance of power. While the victor might win the battle on earth, China’s Dragon Throne can only be earned with a Mandate from Heaven – and the support of the Old Dragon.
Bolin embarks on a journey of self-discovery, mirroring Old China’s endeavour to come of age. When Bolin accepts his destiny as the Dragon Master, Heaven sends a third coming of age – for humanity itself. But are any of them ready for what is rising in the east?
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Praise for The Old Dragon's Head
“A stand out novel that ticks all the boxes – murder, mystery, treason, glorious villains, reluctant heroes and more than a touch of the supernatural.” —Discovering Diamonds
“The author is an excellent storyteller.” British Fantasy Society. “History meets magic, culture meets supernatural… I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a twist.” —Books Beyond the Story
“This is an exceptionally well-written book which takes one back to the China of 1400.” —That’s Books and Entertainment
“I absolutely loved the mix of fantasy elements well-rooted in Chinese history.” —Jessica Belmont
“I enjoyed the different perspectives and the magical realism.” —Rosie Cawkwell
“This book was part murder mystery and part fantasy with some fabulous villains and heroes.” —Over the Rainbow
“This isn’t your typical coming of age story – it’s filled with tough choices, unexpected surprises, and a destiny that’s bigger than anyone can imagine.” —The Faerie Review
“This epic story has it all – adventure, mystery, villains, the supernatural, and at its heart a true coming of age journey.” —Books and Emma
“This is a book of historical fantasy, but in terms of the fantasy, it is subtle, and firmly rooted in cultural beliefs and superstitions within the time period covered in the book.” —Book Mad Jo
“This is not just a fantasy book, this is a fantasy with history, murder, mystery, legend, myth and of course the supernatural. There are villains and heroes and action and adventure.” —Bookmarks and Stages
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**About the Author**
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| Photo Content from Justin Newland |
Justin Newland is an author of historical fantasy and secret history thrillers - that’s history with a supernatural twist. His stories feature known events and real people from history which are re-told and examined through the lens of the supernatural. He gives author talks and is a regular contributor to BBC Radio Bristol’s Thought for the Day. He lives with his partner in plain sight of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, England.
Stay connected with Justin Newland
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*My Thoughts*
Note: This Review contains NO spoilers
I'm not much of a history buff, but The Old Dragon's Head is definitely "trip" through historical China with a mix of mythology and the supernatural. Being the first book by this author I have read, I was taken on a journey filled with mystery, suspense, and fantasy that kept me turning the pages. Although the book starts off slow (in my opinion), the story continues to build with it's interesting characters, descriptive setting, and fascinating culture.
A well-written and thought-provoking epic tale that took me through historical China, The Old Dragon's Head is a remarkable and enjoyable read from beginning to end. This is definitely not a light read, so be aware that every chapter is something to ponder while following the characters and the story. Fans of historical fantasy would enjoy a read like this.
My rating:
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***The Giveaway***
Giveaway Open Internationally | Must be 13+ to Enter
- ends February 5, 2023
Note: Not Responsible for Lost & Damaged Prizes in Your Mail Box
Blog Tour Organized by
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Hey Jasmine, thanks for hosting this stop of the blog tour, and for your considered review.
ReplyDeleteIt was a pleasure! Happy to share. The Old Dragon's Head was and is an enjoyable read, especially the fantasy/supernatural aspects.
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