I like dragons, and Christian fantasy, and when I saw that D. E. Carlson was giving out a novella to her epic fantasy series for free, I jumped on it. Casandra’s Dragon follows a girl with a dragon as she strives to right the wrong in the world.

Official Blurb: Casandra’s Dragon

If no one else will challenge the Firebloods, Casandra will do it herself.
Princess Casandra, daughter of the Dragon Judge, knows there is nothing she cannot do. No cliff she cannot climb, no fight she cannot win, no man who can best her in a battle of wits.

So when her best friend is banished for failing the Dragon Judge’s test, there is no question in her mind.

She has to set this right. She has to get her best friend back. She has to rid the world of a slumbering evil her father is too cowardly to face.

Armed with her father’s twin swords, her dragon, and her clever mind, Casandra sets off on an unsanctioned mission that will lead to freedom for her family…or to her death.

Review

It was an enjoyable and fast-paced read—and that cliffhanger at the end has me itching to know more! I already got To Bind Fire to get reading that so I can get answers!

Story: 3/5
Worldview: 5/5

Solid story and worldbuilding gives this novella a spotlight. Dialogue was very good, with a few awkward moments, but great pacing and some characters have strong personalities, if a bit larger than life at times. The novel gave prep academy vibes, then rebellion vibes, and it all fit together almost seamlessly.

Worldview is so entrenched in this novel, and I love how it’s not just subtle themes. Faith, sacrifice, relationship with God—all these concepts shine through brightly and unapologetically, and it’s refreshing.

Overall Thoughts

If you want to check out more, find it here on Goodreads.

Update: I also read and reviewed the sequel, To Bind Fire. Check it out here! If you’re interested in other Christian fantasy novels, check them out here.