Call of the Dragon 1

Herbalist Moremi is the teenage daughter of the principal priestess to Yida, the dragon goddess, in an engrossing fantasy series opener from Bowen (Soul of the Deep), which expertly demonstrates the burden of being a chosen one. Intricate worldbuilding expands on popular fantasy tropes while crafting exhilarating new twists on common myths about the creation of humankind in this gripping tale of first love, divided loyalties, and loss narrated in doubting yet courageous Moremi’s sincere first-person POV.

Publishers Weekly

A richly imagined epic story that blends African mythology with high-stakes fantasy. Bowen’s worldbuilding is vivid and expansive, filled with lush landscapes, divine beasts, and folklore that thrums with power. Moremi’s struggles among loyalty, love, and destiny make her a compelling heroine, grounding the sweeping scale with emotional resonance. While lore-heavy passages can momentarily slow the pace, the blend of mythic grandeur, high stakes, and heartfelt character work keeps the narrative engaging. VERDICT A vivid, powerful fantasy brimming with dragons, betrayal, and destiny. A must-purchase for collections serving teens who enjoy Tomi Adeyemi, Sabaa Tahir, and Christopher Paolini.

School Library Journal