Seadrake (Dragon Mage 2), by J.A. Jaken

[Ulysses]

Seadrake (Dragon Mage 2)
By J.A. Jaken
Published by White Owl, 2020
Four stars

This magical fantasy saga is immensely fun to read, and beautifully written. The two central characters, Jander and Andrei, are appealing and complex, and while the story is presented through Jander’s eyes, Andrei, his mage-mentor and emotional partner, is a strong presence throughout. Boaen, the courtesan, and the young wytch Tannith, play supporting roles that, as story unfolds, become essential.

At the very beginning of the book, we have a prologue that seems to be a flashback to Jander’s childhood in a small coastal fishing village. That’s followed by an eerie opening scene that involves Kirin, the dark mage who was once Andrei’s apprentice. That opener is never followed up on, yet leaves us with the uneasy sense that we know something nobody else does.

But at the center of this tale is the Seadrake, another newly-emerged ancient dragon with whom Jander must deal. Our little quartet makes its way to an idyllic island in order to consult with an elder mage who is thought to be the world’s expert on dragons. The entire book covers only about a fortnight in actual time, but a great deal happens, both to advance our understanding of the characters, and to push this increasingly dark story closer to its ultimate showdown between good and evil magic.

Although dragons are the core motif of this adventure series, they are treated by the author with great mystery. We are only just beginning to understand what they are, what drives them to act, and why they have reemerged after centuries of invisibility. We don’t end the book knowing all that much more; but what we do know is most tantalizing.

Jander battles with a lack of confidence, while Andrei battles guilt. They support each other in the most lovely way, reminding the reader that these quiet heroes are important for a reason. Jander’s insecurity is, ultimately, his greatest asset, because it leaves him open only to good. This, perhaps, is the most valuable lesson of this third episode in the five-part series. We are right there beside Jander, sharing his every emotion and discovery. It’s an exciting journey.