Book Jacket

 

rank  Editors Pick
word count 85028
date submitted 25.10.2008
date updated 16.12.2009
genres: Fiction, Historical Fiction, Fantas...
classification: moderate
complete

Draegnstoen

Jeff Blackmer

A young fifth century king of Britain rallies the northern kingdoms to fight one last great battle to expel the Romans from the land.

 

The ancient British queen Boudicca casts her imposing shadow over the entire history of this epic struggle.

Before he becomes a man, every prince must kill a dragon. From the stone henges, or Dragonstones, dragons are hunted. Rhun, crown prince of Ebrauc, has slain a dragon. Someday, he will inherit his father's throne. But after a battle with the Romans, that day comes sooner, rather than later.

In the midst of treachery, tragedy, shifting alliances, and with help from the Picts in the far north, a group of northern kingdoms at last dares to challenge Roman rule. Inspired by his ancestor's previous efforts to expel Rome, Coel, (king of one of the northern kingdoms and a real historical figure), finally rallies the north to fight one last great battle that will decide the history of the land.

What if you had to kill your brother because he betrayed your country and allies you had never met?

What if you had to rally the armies of seven small kingdoms for a battle against the world's premiere superpower?

What if the cost of victory was so great that it was almost unbearable?


This is Draegnstoen.


 
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HarperCollins Wrote

Draegnstoen is an historical/fantasy novel about the young fifth century king of Britain, Rhun, who rallies his northern kingdoms to fight one last great battle and expel the Romans from the land.

The young Rhun, having slain a dragon in the opening chapters of the novel, becomes king after an unexpected and tragic battle in which his father is killed by the Romans. His intended bride, Princess Thalia, also dies leaving Rhun with the responsibility of finding another wife. In a moment of desperation he weds his sister, Frydissa, much against her and his younger brother Coel’s wills.
Coel and Rhun’s relationship deteriorates as Rhun’s underhand and ambitious policies threaten the kingdom of Ebrauc’s stability. On discovering Rhun’s intentions to form an alliance with the Romans, Coel and Rhun have a heated confrontation at the Dragonstones which results in Rhun’s death. Coel therefore inherits the throne and marries Feodia, a Pictish Princess, and Frydissa happily marries Aengus in a joint ceremony. Various battles and territorial disputes ensue, culminating in The Great Battle against the Romans.

There is a strong historical milieu to the novel in which Blackmer confronts shifting alliances, paternal and sibling relationships, and explores the responsibilities a king must face, in leading his people. There is also a strongly fantastical element to his writing – dragonslaying and the importance of myth and superstition are deely embedded within the narrative. I found there to be a good balance of battle and court scenes, juxtaposed with the analysis of sibling and political relationships. The chapters are very short – often no more than a page long, and I think that in some cases this causes the flow to become disjointed and confusing. Perhaps expanding some chapters with more detail and description combined with greater focus on characters’ internal thoughts, outside of the dialogue would give a more complex story?

There is a huge marked for this type of fantasy fiction, and here at HarperCollins the Voyager list is champion for quality science-fiction and fantasy. The success of authors such as Robin Hobb and Ray Feist demonstrate the timeless and fascinating endurance of this genre. In my opinion, there is enough originality in Draegnstoen to stand out from its’ competitors, whilst still maintaining those important elements which will ensure its’ success in this competitive area of the market.

This book has been passed to editors in Voyager and Angry Robot for further consideration.

28/06/09

D.I.A.L wrote 1248 days ago

It's not often I come across a book as thrilling as this. It gripped me right from the start! And the way the battle was explained was well thought out. I've read far too many books where there's little tact involved so well done, I hope very much that you succeed!

Val-Rae Christensen wrote 1252 days ago

Jeff Blackmer, you're a genius. What an amazing work you have here. Historical, part fantasy (or not, who's to say?) well researched, convincing. What a great movie this would make. And then a video game, yeah? I've read the entire thing. All of it. I made a few notes as to some thoughts I had as I read it, and I will forward these too you as soon as I can.

Again, fabulous work, and I wish you all the very best!

Christine Beth Reish wrote 1484 days ago

A sweeping tale that not only employs all the excitement necessary for this brand of historical fiction -- warfare, dragon-slaying, shifting loyalties, potential fratricide -- but also examines the nature of bravery and the costs of victory, Draegnstoen hits the mark on a variety of levels. It is Prince Rhun who is credited with the slaying of a dragon, but the reader quickly learns it is his younger brother Coel --who determines early that "trophies did not always prove bravery" -- who will be the wisest of kings. The author expertly establishes the challenges and obstacles to be faced by the fallen King Tegfan's sons as the shadow of the Picts threatens ever closer. It is no wonder this story has hit the editor's desk and contines to climb. It is on my shelf. Best wishes for every success.

msm0202 wrote 1498 days ago

I can tell from the prologue and first couple of chapters that this is going to be a grand tale in the best tradition of historical warfare and the fight for territory. If a few dragons have to be slain along the way, well, so be it. I'm sure the goats don't mind. :-)

The writing is descriptive, seems to flow smoothly and paints very visual images. ("Terrified, the goat bolted from the circle, between the stones, in the opposite direction of the monster, bleating as it went. The dragon's eyes followed its fleeing meal...")

I like this book.

Mark

Cyrus Hood wrote 685 days ago

I really enjoyed this, my kind of book. best of luck
Cyrus

Nathan Maki wrote 804 days ago

Hi Jeff,

This is extremely well done and I can see why it made the editor's desk. I'm assuming you still want comments, editing ideas, so here's some thoughts I had.

...the dew-covered field. (Two words used as an adjective should be hyphenated between them)

"Not a moment longer," answered the queen, her voice rising.

Shouting in the distance caused her to stop. Stop what? Stop her chariot going through London? Or stop reminiscing about that day?

Now just a few days later they were her(e).

Why only three waves of a thousand javelines as the Iceni charge? 3000, from 10,000 legionnaires? Each of them would have carried two pila typically. Then you say that all have been thrown later.

when you have Boudicca first send in the horsemen I just don't get the flavour of a mounted charge. I don't hear the pounding hooves and see the horses bearing down to break the Roman line. Take me there! You get some of that a little later, but that first charge should have been powerful and decisive. Horsemen are only as powerful as their momentum.

Overall though, this is an extremely well-written opening chapter and pulled me in thoroughly. I'm giving this full stars. Does it still help to back it now that you've reached the ED already? If so let me know and I'll rotate it asap.

My book is historical fiction set in ancient Roman times, in 196 AD. I hope you'll have a look at it and comment/back/rate it as you see fit.

All the best!

Nathan Maki - A War Within

Rome wrote 1062 days ago

Jeff,
I am so impressed with the breathtaking visual description you have rendered to Draegnstoen, very uplighting in the manner you pen your text and characters - historical reads involve a serious amount of imagination on the part of the author; I usually search for my account using my name "Rome" in the search field and happened to be drawn with the lovely cover page you came up for this book; hence my commentary. I am leaving it on my shelves for the others to follow.

Could you be so kind as to take a look at my manuscripts and suggest:

Directives for Murder
Beyond the Shadows: Five Stories to Tell

Rome

vanghen wrote 1113 days ago

One chapter, and I'm hooked. A brilliant beginning. Extremely well written, succinct and polished. If the remainder of the story follows suit, then I will be entertained by each and every page, not only for the characterization, but for the smooth, clear, and precise way you write. Yes, Draegnstoen will be backed, and I will be rewarded for the time spent in reading. Jeff Blackmer, you have intrigued me with your work, with your writing skill, and with a gritty story pulled from the annals of history. My kind of stuff. Congratulations on a fine effort. I will add comment as I go. KV

crazy mama wrote 1146 days ago

I only read a bit, but am eager to return to this beautifully writien captivating story. Aside from the descriptive pose I love the way it's structured. perfect syle!! Well done!! I will read on!

A. Zoomer wrote 1148 days ago

I took a look at this book because I wanted to understand what HC supports. Thank you for sharing it.
A zoomer
Going Out In Style

Burgio wrote 1154 days ago

I just returned from a conference in England and took a side trip to see Stonehedge so your jacket cover pulled me in. (I just realized when I scrolled down to write this comment that your book has a gold star - so you probably don't want any more comments. As long as I've already looked at this, however, I'm going to comment anyway). I liked this a lot. It's obvious you've put a lot of research into writing this and that show by your ability to describe settings and characters. I liked the short chapters (I see Harper/Collins wasn't excited by those). I think a fantasy audience is composed of young adults and they're used to quick text messages and short exchanges so when writing for that audience that's the way to go. Either way, it's a good read. I'm adding it to my shelf. Burgio (Grain of Salt).

lionel25 wrote 1180 days ago

Jeff, great job on the prologue and first chapter. I understand why this got a gold star. My only nitpick is the repeated use of the word "clear" in the second sentence of the prologue.

Backing your gold-star work out of respect.

Joffrey (The Silver Spoon Effect)

Famlavan wrote 1186 days ago

Been reading to find out what I need to reach the dizzy heights. Mmmm might just give in. Good luck with the next step!!

yasmin esack wrote 1191 days ago

quotation mark missing in paragraph 2. after man says 70,000
One line in paragragh 1 read strangely afeter in humiliation( commas afer after) check

It's so fine that i didn't want to see errors, even little nitty picky ones. i thoroughtly enjoyed this and the queen is protrayed really well.
should you date this?

David Fearnhead wrote 1202 days ago

It may be a little redundant to back and comment on a book which has already reached the desk and been passed on to publishers already, but it was very enjoyable read, and that's from someone with a strong dislike of a lot of fantasy. I guess what makes this such a good read is the balance that you have in the book between action and dialogue. I wish you all the best with this.
Backed
David
Bailey of the Saints

Mr. Nom de Plume wrote 1210 days ago

Battle scenes and leadership while gathering and inspiring an army to face overwhelming odds are presented in wonderful detail. The "star" is richly deserved for a rating. One minor suggestion: a rank, its name perhaps invented in concert with the plot, higher than "captain" might work well in contrast with the Roman practice of several exaulted levels of leadership in the field. Good luck Chuck (Paperboy Adventures)

Beval wrote 1228 days ago

I found this via the forum. I don't suppose there's any point in my backing you, but I will because I loved it.

D.I.A.L wrote 1248 days ago

It's not often I come across a book as thrilling as this. It gripped me right from the start! And the way the battle was explained was well thought out. I've read far too many books where there's little tact involved so well done, I hope very much that you succeed!

Val-Rae Christensen wrote 1252 days ago

Jeff Blackmer, you're a genius. What an amazing work you have here. Historical, part fantasy (or not, who's to say?) well researched, convincing. What a great movie this would make. And then a video game, yeah? I've read the entire thing. All of it. I made a few notes as to some thoughts I had as I read it, and I will forward these too you as soon as I can.

Again, fabulous work, and I wish you all the very best!

SHRous wrote 1269 days ago

I like the new beginning. The changes definitely enhance the story line.

writingwildly wrote 1300 days ago

I wish I was able to back this, but I've been told that once you have a star, I can't! But It's a beautiful beginning to what I already know will be a fabulous book. Please let me know when it's published!

In the meantime, would you be interested in looking at my book, "Under the Same Sky"? It's historical fiction - and fantasy!

Lj Trafford wrote 1312 days ago

David McCaffrey put me onto this and I am so glad he did.
What an opening chapter! Brilliant. You fully deserved to get to the Editors desk and it is so encouraging what Harper Collins have said.
I know you don't need my backing but I am giving it anyway because this is a fine book.
Regards,
LJ

KirstenB wrote 1322 days ago

I am being honest: I have so far only read the blurbs and the comments from Harper Collins. But this book is going on my list to read through as soon as I get a chance. It sounds fascinating.
Kirsten
('Happy Mother Happy Family' and 'Snapshots')

petrifiedtank wrote 1326 days ago

Hi Jeff,

I said I’d come by in your thread and take a look at the first three chapters. I guess it’s pointless doing typos and stuff, but as I’m reading it anyway…I know you’ve got people to do this for you! You’ve got people who are way better at this than I’ll ever be, but here’s a few thoughts – I hope they’re not noddy…

Prologue

*Sky was clear and the first rays of sun cleared…

Good start, with the castration.

*Romans better trained, armour better…

Excellent pace, the switch between the battle and the birth was handled really well.

Chapter One

Excellent, setting up the character of the two brothers from the start…liked it.

Chapter Two

*Second para – Autum

Getting better all the time.

In your thread you said you wanted opinion, so for what it’s worth I think this is a great improvement. It’s an easy read and it sets the atmosphere brilliantly. It does everything I’d expect from a novel. I read a Conn Igulden book the other day, and this is way better.

I hope that’s what you were looking for! If not, sorry! I feel like I’ve just commented on a Terry Pratchett book or something! I’m embarrassed now, so I’m going slink off and wish you luck.

Debra wrote 1330 days ago

Your new stuff is awesome and I just sampled a little. I have to go bed. I will be back for more! You rock, Jeff.

gailbellenger wrote 1334 days ago

Really enjoying this. Your writing is fabulous and the descriptions, scenes and characterization is well done. Only read a few chapters so far, but will keep reading because I'm loving it.

Gail

JonathanW wrote 1350 days ago

this is fantastic. You don't need me to tell you that. Reminded me of prime David Gemmell crossed with Ken Follett's medieval works. With, of course, its own unique twist. Backing this, of course.

Jonathan Watts
Dread Fist

Ginnybear wrote 1367 days ago

Hi Jeff,

I'm new to this site, yours was the first book I read, and I loved it.. Got me hook line and sinker. Good luck with this.

Ginny
:)

TheLoriC wrote 1390 days ago

I admit I was curious about exploring more historical fiction and I came across this magnificent work. Congratulations on making the ED. I am both shelving this book for others to discover as well as making it Today's Pick I Like for 8/29: http://newandgoodreading.blogspot.com/2009/08/todays-pick-i-like-82909.html

L. Anne Carrington, "The Cruiserweight"

cara_ruegg wrote 1407 days ago

beautiful beautiful imagery. i loved this.

WordTickler wrote 1422 days ago

I know this has already been through the mill but I'm thinking i need to get it on the ol' WL. Intriguing...

My Best,

Kerry B. Rogers, Author
The Occuscript
An Epic Fantasy Adventure

kgadette wrote 1443 days ago

Dear Jeff,
Finally finished Draegnstoen -- it hooked me early, and the story just kept getting bigger. Coming of age, tragedy, incest, fratricide, treason, sibling rivalry, alliances, espionage…it's amazing that you've got so much going on, and you juggle it all so very well. Coel is a fascinating MC: he somehow manages to overcome each and every challenge. A true hero. Loved Feodia. What a woman; mysterious and fearless! You did a marvelous job tying the history together, making an utterly satisfying story. The only question that remains: Historical fiction? Or historical fact? Great job, Jeff!

Ancient Reader wrote 1445 days ago

Dear Jeff,

What a great review! I think it is great that someone at HC can see the wonderful future this book can have.

I wish you the best of luck.

Ancient Reader

pra wrote 1447 days ago

Jeff...way to go! Your hard work is paying off. This is on my read list.
Patti, a fellow Jackson Hole attendee.

S Richard Betterton wrote 1449 days ago

Excellent Jeff!

Shayne Parkinson wrote 1450 days ago

Wonderful news, Jeff!

Pete M wrote 1450 days ago

"This book has been passed to editors in Voyager and Angry Robot for further consideration. "


WOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Annie wrote 1450 days ago

Great news! I knew this book was destined for greatness.

Anne

Andrew W. wrote 1450 days ago

Hi Jeff

Richly deserved, the sweat, the hours, the re-editing, the focus, the diligence, the energy and effort...one step further on the long path to publication Mr Blackmer - really genuinely pleased for you as I know many authonomites will be. You are a real stalwart of this community, the help and support you have given others has been powerful...keep us all posted Jeff and I hope you will still contribute to discussions, conversations etc.

Best wishes - Andrew W.

vivalasbradleys wrote 1450 days ago

Ginormous props!!!

Fred Le Grand wrote 1450 days ago

Congratulations!
Well earned acolades!

2004carlt wrote 1450 days ago

Good solid writing Jeff, I can see why this has been put forward for a further look. Just sorry I didn't take a look earlier because it would have gone on my shelf. Now I hope you'll change that T Shirt;-)

cutley wrote 1450 days ago

Brilliant, Jeff. I am so pleased.

Charles

Alecia Stone wrote 1450 days ago

Yay! Go Jeff. Wish you all the best.

Heikki Hietala wrote 1450 days ago

Jaysis! You made a list at HC! Congrats Jeff!!!

BJ Alexander wrote 1450 days ago

Wow, way to go, Jeff! That's gotta be the most encouraging yet!

Valya wrote 1450 days ago

Jeff, Congratulations on the HC Review! Best of luck to you!

Dania wrote 1450 days ago

Yaaaaaaaay!

Garalt Canton wrote 1450 days ago

It's there! Whoops of delight. Soujourn is on the watchlist.

cara_ruegg wrote 1458 days ago

you describe things very beautifully. right when I started reading you captured me. I could picture everything perfectly. I wish I was as good as you capturing things. amazing!

Lynndy wrote 1468 days ago

Lovely stuff and well written. I'm putting you on my shelf. sorry I didn't get to you sooner.
Lynndy "Dragon Claus"

CharlieChuck wrote 1470 days ago

Congrats for getting on the desk, I;ve only read a few chapters but it's easy to see how you've made it. This is very well written and readable

good luck
charlie

petrifiedtank wrote 1472 days ago

Hi Jeff,

Well written, good pace, great setting...

Shy of a full crit, which is so not needed - Backed.

Craig

Duane March wrote 1473 days ago

Chapter One is very well written! A good start!
Since I love historical, I'll be sure to continue!
Duane
"Kings and Tyrants"