House of Dragons by Jessica Cluess: A Book Review
Genre: Fantasy
Cluess writes a brilliant story invoking the master sense of George R. R. Martin’s Game of Thrones. Surrounding the tale of a whole different empire, Cluess has five houses all centering around a particular kind of dragon. At the death of the emperor, one person from each of these houses is called to be tested – and thus chosen – to be the successor by “The Great Dragon”.
While a little slow in the middle (at one point I thought it would never end), the story was actually really good. The ending, itself, was great. I did not see the ending happening and would highly appreciate a sequel coming in the next year or so. I want to know what happens next SO badly. Cluess cannot leave me hanging like that – it is completely unacceptable.
On a different note, I do wish the character had more growth, but I feel like how Cluess set it up allows for more major growth to happen in the next book. I can see House of Dragons being the background novel and the catalyst for a stronger second story. I also wish Cluess would have dwelt more on the nightmares the characters had to relive. While her vague descriptions were suspenseful and added value to the story – I wish, by the end, something more concrete was given about all of them.
Finally – I want to pose a question – one that can only be answered if you read the book:
Who do you think was chosen or at least should have been chosen?
The Liar The Soldier The Servant The Thief The Murderer
Read the book.
Get your friends to read the book.
Discuss.
Let me know what you think below.
NOTE:
Upon research Cluess does have a sequel to House of Dragons titled War of Dragons. According to Google, this novel was published in 2021. However, Amazon states that the book will not be published until 2079. Barnes and Noble has no record of a sequel on their website.
Who would most enjoy the work and who should stay clear (if necessary):
Like Game of Thrones and some Daenerys action? This is a book for you.
Fans of Jennifer L. Armentrout, Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo, Laura Sebastian, Holly Black, Stephanie Garber.
Dragon fanatics
Outcasts
Other books like the one reviewed:
The Maze Runner series
Percy Jackson series
Fire and Blood by George R. R. Martin
| Plot: | 10 / 10 |
| Characters: | 10 / 10 |
| Writing: | 9 / 10 |
| Editor: | 9 / 10 |
| Total | 38 / 40 |
Title: House of Dragons
Author: Jessica Cluess
Edition: First Edition Hardcover
Published: 2020
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 9780525648154
If you want to get it: Amazon; Barnes&Noble
Rosey Reviews 