Title: Dominion

Author: P.T.L. Perrin

Genres: Fantasy / Science fiction

 

P.T.L. Perrin’s Dominion is the third novel in the Dragon Guild series. Gabri and her dragon, Makani, work with the Dragon Guild to put up a resistance to the evil, led by Ozul, that is destroying their planet, Umbra, and end such devastation once and for all. Gabri’s three-year-old brother, Alex, is underestimated by many and has abilities and knowledge beyond his years that play an important role. While the Dragon Guild works to save lives, Alex hatches a plan.

Centering the last book in this spectacular series around Gabri’s three-year-old brother, Alex, could be viewed as a risky choice, in that the world of Umbra’s continued existence depends on a young child. However, Perrin pulls it off, rendering this literary device one of the story’s strongest elements. Alex is a remarkable child with magical abilities and wisdom seemingly possessed by someone much older, yet he remains realistically his age with mood swings and impulsive behavior. It is Alex’s determination to rescue his dragon’s mother that drives the plot forward. His complex yet simple relationship with Tito the dragon provides the reader with some heartwarming moments throughout the book.

Perrin continues amazing world-building in Dominion. The Aracai were introduced in earlier novels, but they play a larger role in this story, their unique musical abilities and deeply formed bonds with people adding to the layers of the mythology of Umbra. In addition, although Dominion is fantasy, it has elements of science fiction, which blend well with the established framework. Examples include cloaking devices and plastic weaponry that are used to help the Dragon Guild in their resistance against Ozul and his dark forces.

Action sequences are often challenging to write, but Perrin tackles them seamlessly. Aerial combat scenes draw the reader in as if we are riding a dragon alongside the Dragon Guild members. The playful interactions between dragons and their riders are beautifully illustrated in such sequences, juxtaposed with fight scenes. The climactic battle goes a step further than a mere air battle, encompassing the sea and underground as well.

All that said, Perrin’s greatest achievement throughout the series is the emotions between characters who feel like real people. Whether it is the romance between Gabri and Elio, the sibling dynamic between Alex and Gabri, or extended family and friends, they are genuine. Nothing feels contrived for advancing a plot point. The final confrontation between Alex and Katzir has a strong feeling of being personal, even though the battle is for a greater good.

Pacing in the book’s middle slows at times as several threads play out, but overall, the momentum keeps moving forward, which is no easy feat with a book of one hundred thousand words.

With Dominion concluding this thrilling series, Perrin has created a fantastical adventure that will remain with readers long after the last page. Perrin delivers a breathtaking finale that balances lots of action with realistic, deep characters. Dominion reaches new heights for the series by reinforcing that our connections with others transcend the fantasy realm, mirroring those bonds in real life.

 

 

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