Author of grounded fantasy adventures—stories of danger, wonder, moral struggle, and the search for meaning in a world ruled by monsters.
A father journeys into the post-apocalyptic unknown to rescue his six-year-old daughter before she is sacrificed to a dragon.
Dragons scour the ruins of a fallen civilization. A god known only as The One Who Speaks set its destruction in motion. Humanity's last refuge, Ivory City, clings to survival with a dwindling supply of dragon-killing poison. Iko Phainor lives a lonely life as the last surviving adherent of the ancient religion of Silence.
When Iko's young daughter, Cas, is kidnapped for sacrifice, his search for her leads him into a brewing war that threatens Ivory City’s existence. There, his fate intertwines with Zerah, a widow obsessed with revenge against the dragon that murdered her family, and Makus, a warrior manipulated by the whispered lies of The One Who Speaks. Together, they must face their deepest fears, mounting betrayals, and battle-hardened monsters to save Cas—and perhaps the world—from a horrific end.
Reader Reactions:
"Kristopher Ackoury gifts his readers with excellent prose, a compelling cast of characters, and thoughtful, resonating storytelling."
"Exciting action scenes and well-paced suspense elevate the book, but it's the balance of adventure, suspense, and emotional depth that truly sets it apart."
"This book was perfectly paced…approachable and insanely readable."
"The book sounds like fantasy fiction, reads like a fast-paced action/adventure, and has the reader reflecting on the balance of good and evil… Thought-provoking and in the best way."
"A highly readable and engaging character-driven fantasy with excellent pacing, relatable characters, and, of course...plenty of dragons."
"Wonderful storytelling from author Kristopher Ackoury!"
"Layered, intricate, fantastical—a truly electrifying fantasy debut."