Silk Fire

Ellor’s sensual but deeply flawed adult fantasy debut (after YA novel May the Best Man Win) follows Koreshiza “Koré” Brightstar, a courtesan and brothel owner, as he’s plunged into a political maelstrom while attempting to prevent his corrupt father’s grasp for power. When Koré is blessed by a dragon long believed to be dead, warring factions attempt to make Koré’s sudden gift into a useful tool as they jockey for position, and he must use all his wits to figure out who to trust before he’s pulled to pieces. Though the worldbuilding is complex and ambitious, Ellor struggles to spin a fully cohesive narrative from all the moving parts. The many players don’t demonstrate any particular political finesse; it’s difficult to establish an atmosphere of manipulation and secrecy with characters so prone to blurting their machinations to one another, preventing opportunities for the shrewd acquisition of secrets central to a satisfying intrigue narrative. Fans of familial revenge tales and queer high fantasy may find something to enjoy once the story gets out of its own way, but it’s a bumpy ride that many won’t mind skipping. Agent: Kaitlyn Johnson, Belcastro Agency. (July)