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Soultaming the Serpent
Jun never knew adventure until she took her first step out of her village at age 60 and then found a young man, which only led her to more adventures and stories, some of which point to home.
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The last dragon died half a century ago and Jun Weaver still dreams of the rain that hasn’t fallen since. Her mundane life takes a turn when she encounters Aurel, who she suspects may be the one that holds the key to restoring balance and is destined to find the elusive serpent from the prophecy.
Joined by Casey, Jun’s closest friend and the village brewer, the three embark on a journey to unravel the prophecy's intricacies, figure out what the serpent's role truly is, and why the dragon has to die, not knowing they are being watched.
Follow our trio as Jun discovers a love of adventure, Casey’s devotion takes an unexpected turn, Aurel spills his secrets like dust in the sand, and the three of them discover the true power of their bond.
---
The last dragon died half a century ago and Jun Weaver still dreams of the rain that hasn’t fallen since. Her mundane life takes a turn when she encounters Aurel, who she suspects may be the one that holds the key to restoring balance and is destined to find the elusive serpent from the prophecy.
Joined by Casey, Jun’s closest friend and the village brewer, the three embark on a journey to unravel the prophecy's intricacies, figure out what the serpent's role truly is, and why the dragon has to die, not knowing they are being watched.
Follow our trio as Jun discovers a love of adventure, Casey’s devotion takes an unexpected turn, Aurel spills his secrets like dust in the sand, and the three of them discover the true power of their bond.
187 pages, ebook
First published September 25, 2023
About the author
Tar Atore
3 books15 followersTar Atore was an avid reader from a young age, and got introduced to queer fiction fairly late. Even more so, to queer characters in the fantasy and science fiction genres.
Now, Tar Atore focuses on writing those genres by building relationships between queer characters that enhance the plot without taking over the story. As a fan of subtle romances that smack and epic scales that don't feel overwhelming, Tar Atore writes stories that focus on individuals and has a habit of playing with common tropes and twisting plots around.
When not writing, you can find Tar Atore still with a book at hand! Or more likely on the computer, and working with indie authors to design their covers, maps, and typeset their books under a different pseudonym.
Now, Tar Atore focuses on writing those genres by building relationships between queer characters that enhance the plot without taking over the story. As a fan of subtle romances that smack and epic scales that don't feel overwhelming, Tar Atore writes stories that focus on individuals and has a habit of playing with common tropes and twisting plots around.
When not writing, you can find Tar Atore still with a book at hand! Or more likely on the computer, and working with indie authors to design their covers, maps, and typeset their books under a different pseudonym.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 13, 2023
Review originally on
JamReads
Soultaming the Serpent is an innovative cozy and romantic fantasy novel, which resembles an Asian fable, written by Tar Atore. A heartwarming story, following Jun, a character in her 60s, who will live her first adventure, and that will see how her faith and beliefs are destroyed while finding the love in the figure of Aurel.
The last dragon died half a century ago, and rain hasn't fallen since; Jun Weaver is the only one in the village that remembers how it felt. With a mundane life since that moment, her life changes when she finds the mysterious Aurel; the prophecy talks about finding the serpent, and Jun suspects that Aurel might be the one playing the key role on this prophecy.
However, soon they are forced to start a journey in the company of Casey, Jun's best friend, to unravel the real meaning behind the prophecy; a journey that will show Jun her love for adventure, and the world outside her village. A marvelous adventure where danger is a constant, but which will make them discover many about themselves.
While the structure resembles to those that are classic in fables, giving us a semblance of coziness, Atore manages to use those elements to innovate and explore aspects that tend to be less used in fantasy, such an older character and twisting the chosen one trope in a delicious way. Our three main characters are deliciously complex, full of nuances that makes extremely easy to connect with them.
Pacing might be the point where this book might be lacking a bit, probably as a consequence of the story chosen; it could have been slightly faster at points, but in general, is well balanced.
Soultaming the Serpent is a delicious, cozy novel, perfect for those looking for a fantasy with older characters and some trope subversion. Atore has potential as a storyteller, so keep an eye on her.
Soultaming the Serpent is an innovative cozy and romantic fantasy novel, which resembles an Asian fable, written by Tar Atore. A heartwarming story, following Jun, a character in her 60s, who will live her first adventure, and that will see how her faith and beliefs are destroyed while finding the love in the figure of Aurel.
The last dragon died half a century ago, and rain hasn't fallen since; Jun Weaver is the only one in the village that remembers how it felt. With a mundane life since that moment, her life changes when she finds the mysterious Aurel; the prophecy talks about finding the serpent, and Jun suspects that Aurel might be the one playing the key role on this prophecy.
However, soon they are forced to start a journey in the company of Casey, Jun's best friend, to unravel the real meaning behind the prophecy; a journey that will show Jun her love for adventure, and the world outside her village. A marvelous adventure where danger is a constant, but which will make them discover many about themselves.
While the structure resembles to those that are classic in fables, giving us a semblance of coziness, Atore manages to use those elements to innovate and explore aspects that tend to be less used in fantasy, such an older character and twisting the chosen one trope in a delicious way. Our three main characters are deliciously complex, full of nuances that makes extremely easy to connect with them.
Pacing might be the point where this book might be lacking a bit, probably as a consequence of the story chosen; it could have been slightly faster at points, but in general, is well balanced.
Soultaming the Serpent is a delicious, cozy novel, perfect for those looking for a fantasy with older characters and some trope subversion. Atore has potential as a storyteller, so keep an eye on her.
featured
December 28, 2023https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
Jun Weaver from Soultaming the Serpent is aromantic!
Jun Weaver from Soultaming the Serpent is aromantic!
September 25, 2023
I received an ARC of this book. I’m so glad I said yes. It was a super cute read and definitely different than what I’m used to with Jun being on the older side. I felt the author did a good job at showing her age without overdoing it. I liked the meaning behind this story as well. Casey and Aurel were both awesome too.
I thought the note before the book even started was awesome: “That means that coloUrs have you in them and realiZations can put you to sleep.”
Another quote I loved was, “Me too, you mirage idiot!”
This last one was super sweet, “Life can come only from birth. From creation. From love.”
I thought the note before the book even started was awesome: “That means that coloUrs have you in them and realiZations can put you to sleep.”
Another quote I loved was, “Me too, you mirage idiot!”
This last one was super sweet, “Life can come only from birth. From creation. From love.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
May 23, 2024rtc
January 6, 2024
Just from reading the blurb, I knew this story was going to be anything but a typical fantasy story, and it did not disappoint. Why is it always 16 year olds saving the world? Well Soultaming kicked that trope in the bum. This story was a breath of fresh air, 60 yrs old Jun has never left her village and is one of the only people who remember when the last dragon died.
But when Jun finally decides to venture to the next village the first rain in decades falls and she comes across on an unconscious young man. Little did she know she had stumbled into the prophecy to awaken the next dragon so the rain will return. Setting out with her best friend and the young man, this reluctant hero is about to change the world.
There is nothing I love more than a prophecy with an unexpected twist, and this one was fantastic. None of the characters are what you'd expect, they were all unique, funny, and with their own inner battles to overcome. This also isn't your typical romance, with LGBTQ+ rep, and tackling all the facets of love. Everyone feels, expresses, and experiences love differently, and it was beautifully depicted.
I highly recommend grabbing this novel. It was such a quick and easy read, the story and emotions shone through on every page. I loved all the unexpected twists, and it had an ending that I never saw coming (and I mean that in the best possible way). In the end, love is what binds us.
But when Jun finally decides to venture to the next village the first rain in decades falls and she comes across on an unconscious young man. Little did she know she had stumbled into the prophecy to awaken the next dragon so the rain will return. Setting out with her best friend and the young man, this reluctant hero is about to change the world.
There is nothing I love more than a prophecy with an unexpected twist, and this one was fantastic. None of the characters are what you'd expect, they were all unique, funny, and with their own inner battles to overcome. This also isn't your typical romance, with LGBTQ+ rep, and tackling all the facets of love. Everyone feels, expresses, and experiences love differently, and it was beautifully depicted.
I highly recommend grabbing this novel. It was such a quick and easy read, the story and emotions shone through on every page. I loved all the unexpected twists, and it had an ending that I never saw coming (and I mean that in the best possible way). In the end, love is what binds us.
February 21, 2024
3.5/5
I did enjoy reading this book. In the beginning, it started to get a bit annoying that everything about the rain and dragon gets repeated so many times. Also, everyone seems to lose their balance at least 1 time every chapter.
Somehow the "foul" language didn't really seem to fit in the story. The ending of the book was a bit confusing, I had to reread it a couple of times to understand it.
This was a different kind of fantasy story and I don't mean in it a bad way, but I also don't really know how to describe it. I did read the book in 1 sitting, I just had to know what happens next. The ages of the characters were also a lot older than I'm used to (they were all seniors) The story itself was amazing and if they added another 100 pages I wouldn't be mad at all. The action scenes were exciting. And the relationship between the characters and their problems was interesting to read.
I did enjoy reading this book. In the beginning, it started to get a bit annoying that everything about the rain and dragon gets repeated so many times. Also, everyone seems to lose their balance at least 1 time every chapter.
Somehow the "foul" language didn't really seem to fit in the story. The ending of the book was a bit confusing, I had to reread it a couple of times to understand it.
This was a different kind of fantasy story and I don't mean in it a bad way, but I also don't really know how to describe it. I did read the book in 1 sitting, I just had to know what happens next. The ages of the characters were also a lot older than I'm used to (they were all seniors) The story itself was amazing and if they added another 100 pages I wouldn't be mad at all. The action scenes were exciting. And the relationship between the characters and their problems was interesting to read.
July 11, 2024
The first half of the book was about what I expected with not really any surprising twists. About 2/3 through, I couldn't put it down. The explanation of the dragon/serpent/Chosen One was confusing, but I like that it wasn't cliche. The polyamory was wonderfully done and set up well so that it felt right. This book has ace and bi rep, and a broken prophesy, which I loooooove. Subverting the Chosen One trope is one of my favorite tropes. The writing wasn't exceptional, but the story was fresh. After a few more books under their belt, this author will produce even better novels.
September 10, 2023
I received this book as an arc. I thought this adventure was amazing! From beginning to end, it had so many different emotions. I loved how all the characters felt love in different ways. It seems as though Love will conquer all!
December 31, 2023
Elder FMC? Aromantic rep? Queerness all around? Focus on non-romantic forms of love?
And dragons?
Sold.
And dragons?
Sold.
December 11, 2024
Their soultaming ritual had failed. And it was all her fault.
Tar Atore's "Soultaming the Serpent" is a wonderfully rendered tale, full of cozy moments and romance galore. It seems to be almost mythological in nature as it addresses true love in all its forms. Perhaps from the lessons it appears we're meant to be learning it should be considered more a fable, but it's still quite beautiful when all is said and… no, not done. We're left knowing that there is much, much more to come and it will be an amazing new beginning.
The serpent’s soul is never still. It constantly changes states.
The story is rather straightforward and except for the development of what I see goodreads is labelling the "polyamorous" relationships, there's really nothing that out of the expectations I at least would have for a "dragon-based" fantasy tale. The story follows Jun Weaver - a sometimes awkward loner that is the small village's weaver and general seamstress - as well as Casey Brewer - the same village's tavern owner and local brewer. I'm just surprised that Aurel wasn't given the last name "stud muffin found in a field" or something to match the others' career-based monikers. Little do the former two players realize just how key they are and will wind up being to restoring a living dragon to their lands, which have suffered now for fifty some years without rain, a result that occurred once the last dragon died.
What kind of cycle forced one to die for many others to live? It made no sense.
One weird aspect for me personally is that Jun is depicted and considered to be a bit of an old cantankerous crone in many ways as she's now sixty years of age. Now having turned THE EXACT SAME AGE earlier this summer, I really couldn't relate to all the references about creaky bones and various difficulties in terms of going about my daily routines. And that's noting that when it's dry out, things hurt even less come to think of it! Bluntly put: we're not old, even if our hair is white as snow (no comment about bellies that shake like bowls full of jelly!). But interestingly enough, grumpy Jun is the kind of person that doesn't love easily, be it the kind of love you share with a friend and definitely not with a lover ("Getting married? Living together? Having kids? That was just so… awkward!"). Unlike her bisexual friend Casey - who "could fall in love with a tree if he spent enough time with it" - she is if anything thoroughly asexual. Not that any of these labels matter, but it seems to be extremely important to the magics they'll be exposed to as the story progresses.
It may be a surprise to you but this is my first time meeting a mythical creature!
Still, even once these trio set off in one way or another on their big adventure, the pacing isn't really all that quick-paced. No, I wouldn't say the book is slow in any way, but it is obvious that the choice of this kind of fable-like structure does take it's time in spots to get going, or perhaps better said, keep going. There are several scenes where a great deal of time passes - hours, days, even years - without a lot "forward progress" to show for it. Again, these moments are key to the story, yes, but it's not one of those fantasy tales where we're galloping across the lands of Wherevershire with the wind in our hair and our swords in the air. No, this is definitely more aimed at a more cerebral approach, resembling the kind of image I have at least when I think of the multi-generational storytelling of Asian communities. Get comfy kids, because Grandpa-san has a long story to tell and a full bottle of wine to boot!
That’s what brings the dragon in you out. Love.
The final climatic BATTLE scenes are very well-handled and extremely tense and fit very organically into the tale as a whole. Naturally, human avarice and arrogance has to raise its ugly head and nearly derail all the plans for the actions embraced in the title to come to fruitition. Most memorably for me though will be the touching revelation of all the main characters - supported briefly by a new player that comes in almost at the last page it seems - about what love truly means as well as how it affects their future and thusly of the lands around them. It's cozy, it's romantic, and it's lovingly told. A much lighter fantasy read than I usually check out but still very well worth a read!
Tar Atore's "Soultaming the Serpent" is a wonderfully rendered tale, full of cozy moments and romance galore. It seems to be almost mythological in nature as it addresses true love in all its forms. Perhaps from the lessons it appears we're meant to be learning it should be considered more a fable, but it's still quite beautiful when all is said and… no, not done. We're left knowing that there is much, much more to come and it will be an amazing new beginning.
The serpent’s soul is never still. It constantly changes states.
The story is rather straightforward and except for the development of what I see goodreads is labelling the "polyamorous" relationships, there's really nothing that out of the expectations I at least would have for a "dragon-based" fantasy tale. The story follows Jun Weaver - a sometimes awkward loner that is the small village's weaver and general seamstress - as well as Casey Brewer - the same village's tavern owner and local brewer. I'm just surprised that Aurel wasn't given the last name "stud muffin found in a field" or something to match the others' career-based monikers. Little do the former two players realize just how key they are and will wind up being to restoring a living dragon to their lands, which have suffered now for fifty some years without rain, a result that occurred once the last dragon died.
What kind of cycle forced one to die for many others to live? It made no sense.
One weird aspect for me personally is that Jun is depicted and considered to be a bit of an old cantankerous crone in many ways as she's now sixty years of age. Now having turned THE EXACT SAME AGE earlier this summer, I really couldn't relate to all the references about creaky bones and various difficulties in terms of going about my daily routines. And that's noting that when it's dry out, things hurt even less come to think of it! Bluntly put: we're not old, even if our hair is white as snow (no comment about bellies that shake like bowls full of jelly!). But interestingly enough, grumpy Jun is the kind of person that doesn't love easily, be it the kind of love you share with a friend and definitely not with a lover ("Getting married? Living together? Having kids? That was just so… awkward!"). Unlike her bisexual friend Casey - who "could fall in love with a tree if he spent enough time with it" - she is if anything thoroughly asexual. Not that any of these labels matter, but it seems to be extremely important to the magics they'll be exposed to as the story progresses.
It may be a surprise to you but this is my first time meeting a mythical creature!
Still, even once these trio set off in one way or another on their big adventure, the pacing isn't really all that quick-paced. No, I wouldn't say the book is slow in any way, but it is obvious that the choice of this kind of fable-like structure does take it's time in spots to get going, or perhaps better said, keep going. There are several scenes where a great deal of time passes - hours, days, even years - without a lot "forward progress" to show for it. Again, these moments are key to the story, yes, but it's not one of those fantasy tales where we're galloping across the lands of Wherevershire with the wind in our hair and our swords in the air. No, this is definitely more aimed at a more cerebral approach, resembling the kind of image I have at least when I think of the multi-generational storytelling of Asian communities. Get comfy kids, because Grandpa-san has a long story to tell and a full bottle of wine to boot!
That’s what brings the dragon in you out. Love.
The final climatic BATTLE scenes are very well-handled and extremely tense and fit very organically into the tale as a whole. Naturally, human avarice and arrogance has to raise its ugly head and nearly derail all the plans for the actions embraced in the title to come to fruitition. Most memorably for me though will be the touching revelation of all the main characters - supported briefly by a new player that comes in almost at the last page it seems - about what love truly means as well as how it affects their future and thusly of the lands around them. It's cozy, it's romantic, and it's lovingly told. A much lighter fantasy read than I usually check out but still very well worth a read!
September 28, 2023
This book I went into it with my heart set. A romance story about later in life - I may not see myself as that now, but I wanted to be the Main Character Jun. I wanted to leave the village with her, find the joys of visiting an old friend/shop again. See the forest and miss the past. The author P.M. Hammond made me feel jubilant so quickly in their story.
Side note - the subtitle body positivity in this book is amazing.
World building - this place is set in a desert and life happens at night, not during the heat of the day. It didn’t used to be that way, but it also used to rain more often, it hasn’t rain in 50 years. The detail Hammond does about the lifestyle of living in the desert, the cost of water, and the beautifulness of rain keeps this story feeling real and easy to connect to. Even while the magic is happening. This is not only specific to the Fantasy magic either.
The magic that happens during the romance moments had me going awww. I also cried… twice. Someone dear to me fell in love three times after the age of 60, and dang did I see them in Casey Brewer. I connected to how Auriel showed his love too, but I won’t be expanding on that because of massive spoilers.
Below is a copy of my review from GoodReads - with music links to Youtube.
This is a fantasy romance adventure that will make music play in your head. For me, it was the instrumental group Future World Music. Like a massive orchestra, this book is layered with deep characters and world building. I went into this book thinking I would hear their song Dream Chasers when I read Jun's tale as she stepped outside of the village for the first time. That was too heavy of a tone for what happened. She was full of energy and life that I wanted to run along side with her. Jun is amazing, she knows what she wants and does not care what a prophecy says. Once she set her mind to anything, she does it and makes sure it happens.
But that song was still not the right one. We meet Casey, the sweet romantic right away. People - take notes this gentleman is top class here. His song would be Once in a Lifetime - but he falls in deep love multiple times. He has such a big heart. He stands and respects Jun a lot, all while taking care of his own family and village when The Chosen arrives.
Aurel, I'm sucker for this guy because I burn as easily as he does in the sun. With his gorgeous lavender eyes, and the little things he does for love, he will make you fall heads over heals for him. I want to say more, but it will be a spoiler. He will get the song New Beginnings - and that's all I am saying.
Love is never hiding in the world, it might be next to you, it might out in the world, sometimes taking a step out will help you find both. It might not be the love you imagined. Just like this book was not what I thought it would be when I started, but it ended being the light-hearted, cozy fantasy adventure story that I loved enough to read the ending again. The song Voyage to Atlantis matched the entire book.
Side note - the subtitle body positivity in this book is amazing.
World building - this place is set in a desert and life happens at night, not during the heat of the day. It didn’t used to be that way, but it also used to rain more often, it hasn’t rain in 50 years. The detail Hammond does about the lifestyle of living in the desert, the cost of water, and the beautifulness of rain keeps this story feeling real and easy to connect to. Even while the magic is happening. This is not only specific to the Fantasy magic either.
The magic that happens during the romance moments had me going awww. I also cried… twice. Someone dear to me fell in love three times after the age of 60, and dang did I see them in Casey Brewer. I connected to how Auriel showed his love too, but I won’t be expanding on that because of massive spoilers.
Below is a copy of my review from GoodReads - with music links to Youtube.
This is a fantasy romance adventure that will make music play in your head. For me, it was the instrumental group Future World Music. Like a massive orchestra, this book is layered with deep characters and world building. I went into this book thinking I would hear their song Dream Chasers when I read Jun's tale as she stepped outside of the village for the first time. That was too heavy of a tone for what happened. She was full of energy and life that I wanted to run along side with her. Jun is amazing, she knows what she wants and does not care what a prophecy says. Once she set her mind to anything, she does it and makes sure it happens.
But that song was still not the right one. We meet Casey, the sweet romantic right away. People - take notes this gentleman is top class here. His song would be Once in a Lifetime - but he falls in deep love multiple times. He has such a big heart. He stands and respects Jun a lot, all while taking care of his own family and village when The Chosen arrives.
Aurel, I'm sucker for this guy because I burn as easily as he does in the sun. With his gorgeous lavender eyes, and the little things he does for love, he will make you fall heads over heals for him. I want to say more, but it will be a spoiler. He will get the song New Beginnings - and that's all I am saying.
Love is never hiding in the world, it might be next to you, it might out in the world, sometimes taking a step out will help you find both. It might not be the love you imagined. Just like this book was not what I thought it would be when I started, but it ended being the light-hearted, cozy fantasy adventure story that I loved enough to read the ending again. The song Voyage to Atlantis matched the entire book.
Want to Read
October 24, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBOX contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
It hasn’t rained in half a century, but the oldest woman in the village remembers the last time it did: when the last dragon died.
I’m immediately intrigued by several details of this opening, specifically pertaining to its MC and setting. The opening line, which begins to establish that setting, is a knockout.
The last dragon died 50yrs ago when our MC was ten. She remembers when it happened - not the dragon dying, but what it meant to the people around her and life in their village. It rained and rained, and then it never rained again.
Wow. What a start. Added setting details of dry cracked earth, a barren field that used to be full of lilacs, drinks made from cactus water, and cleaning mugs with sand all make me feel like this world without rain really exists.
Our MC, at sixty, is the oldest person in her village. I haven’t read very many stories about old women, especially not fantasy stories, so this immediately gains my interest.
Our MC is flawed. She has developed some serious avoidance behaviors. She hasn’t left the village in 50yrs, not even to draw water from the wells. She’s stuck behind an imaginary boundary her mother laid out for her. There’s something so painfully human about this.
By the end of the first chapter, I can begin to see a trajectory for the story to come. It makes some quiet promises to us. Usually when dragons die, another is born within a year. Something about this restored a balance. But that dragon was never born.
Songs our MCs mother used to sing made her believe someone was supposed to go out looking for that dragon, but apparently that never happened. But it will one day. It has to!
And here she is herself, sixty years old and having never left her village. This establishes a largescale problem with obvious continued consequences, and puts before us a character who is surely going to be at the heart of doing something about it. I think that’s very well done!
I think the writing is a weak point in this opening. Some of the dialogue feels expositional and unmotivated, and the prose can be a little clumsy at times when steering its characters around, but this does a good job of not feeling overwritten.
I find the conflict between our MC & her brewer friend difficult to connect with b/c I’m not sure what the conflict is. She’s certain the dragon will come back, but he thinks they should do a controlled burn of the dead forest, & I don’t know why these things are in conflict.
But I want to know what happens next. This almost feels like a novel of self-discovery. And with an MC at the age of 60, I’m even more drawn in than if she were 16. It’s never too late to find our self. I want to explore more of this world. I’m in!
It hasn’t rained in half a century, but the oldest woman in the village remembers the last time it did: when the last dragon died.
I’m immediately intrigued by several details of this opening, specifically pertaining to its MC and setting. The opening line, which begins to establish that setting, is a knockout.
The last dragon died 50yrs ago when our MC was ten. She remembers when it happened - not the dragon dying, but what it meant to the people around her and life in their village. It rained and rained, and then it never rained again.
Wow. What a start. Added setting details of dry cracked earth, a barren field that used to be full of lilacs, drinks made from cactus water, and cleaning mugs with sand all make me feel like this world without rain really exists.
Our MC, at sixty, is the oldest person in her village. I haven’t read very many stories about old women, especially not fantasy stories, so this immediately gains my interest.
Our MC is flawed. She has developed some serious avoidance behaviors. She hasn’t left the village in 50yrs, not even to draw water from the wells. She’s stuck behind an imaginary boundary her mother laid out for her. There’s something so painfully human about this.
By the end of the first chapter, I can begin to see a trajectory for the story to come. It makes some quiet promises to us. Usually when dragons die, another is born within a year. Something about this restored a balance. But that dragon was never born.
Songs our MCs mother used to sing made her believe someone was supposed to go out looking for that dragon, but apparently that never happened. But it will one day. It has to!
And here she is herself, sixty years old and having never left her village. This establishes a largescale problem with obvious continued consequences, and puts before us a character who is surely going to be at the heart of doing something about it. I think that’s very well done!
I think the writing is a weak point in this opening. Some of the dialogue feels expositional and unmotivated, and the prose can be a little clumsy at times when steering its characters around, but this does a good job of not feeling overwritten.
I find the conflict between our MC & her brewer friend difficult to connect with b/c I’m not sure what the conflict is. She’s certain the dragon will come back, but he thinks they should do a controlled burn of the dead forest, & I don’t know why these things are in conflict.
But I want to know what happens next. This almost feels like a novel of self-discovery. And with an MC at the age of 60, I’m even more drawn in than if she were 16. It’s never too late to find our self. I want to explore more of this world. I’m in!
September 30, 2023
"Soultaming the Serpent" by P.M. Hammond is a spellbinding LGBTQ+ fantasy romance that transports readers into a world where adventure, prophecy, and love intertwine in the most enchanting ways. Hammond weaves a captivating tale that transcends age, defying expectations and delivering a story that tugs at the heartstrings.
At the heart of this remarkable narrative is Jun Weaver, a character who proves that adventure knows no age limits. Jun's journey begins when she steps out of her village at the age of 60, a decision that thrusts her into a world of wonder, danger, and, most importantly, love. Hammond's portrayal of Jun's transformation from a seemingly mundane life to one filled with unexpected adventures is a testament to the enduring spirit of curiosity and the capacity for love at any stage in life.
The central plot revolves around the quest to restore balance and fulfill a prophecy, involving the elusive serpent and the memory of a long-deceased dragon. The story takes flight when Jun encounters Aurel, a character shrouded in mystery and secrets. Hammond masterfully crafts the intrigue surrounding Aurel, keeping readers guessing about his true role in the prophecy.
What sets "Soultaming the Serpent" apart is its portrayal of love, not just as a romantic entanglement, but as a force that binds characters together. Jun's journey is enriched by her close friendship with Casey, the village brewer, whose unwavering devotion takes an unexpected turn. The dynamics between the trio are beautifully explored, revealing the profound power of their bond.
P.M. Hammond's writing is nothing short of magical. The narrative unfolds with lyrical prose that paints vivid images of this fantastical world, where each page brims with wonder and awe. The author's ability to evoke emotions and create a richly layered universe makes for an immersive reading experience.
In "Soultaming the Serpent," readers will discover a love story that defies convention, a tale of unexpected heroes, and a world where destiny and adventure are not bound by age. This LGBTQ+ fantasy romance is a testament to the enduring power of love, friendship, and the unquenchable thirst for adventure. P.M. Hammond's novel is a heartfelt and enthralling journey that will leave readers enchanted and yearning for more.
At the heart of this remarkable narrative is Jun Weaver, a character who proves that adventure knows no age limits. Jun's journey begins when she steps out of her village at the age of 60, a decision that thrusts her into a world of wonder, danger, and, most importantly, love. Hammond's portrayal of Jun's transformation from a seemingly mundane life to one filled with unexpected adventures is a testament to the enduring spirit of curiosity and the capacity for love at any stage in life.
The central plot revolves around the quest to restore balance and fulfill a prophecy, involving the elusive serpent and the memory of a long-deceased dragon. The story takes flight when Jun encounters Aurel, a character shrouded in mystery and secrets. Hammond masterfully crafts the intrigue surrounding Aurel, keeping readers guessing about his true role in the prophecy.
What sets "Soultaming the Serpent" apart is its portrayal of love, not just as a romantic entanglement, but as a force that binds characters together. Jun's journey is enriched by her close friendship with Casey, the village brewer, whose unwavering devotion takes an unexpected turn. The dynamics between the trio are beautifully explored, revealing the profound power of their bond.
P.M. Hammond's writing is nothing short of magical. The narrative unfolds with lyrical prose that paints vivid images of this fantastical world, where each page brims with wonder and awe. The author's ability to evoke emotions and create a richly layered universe makes for an immersive reading experience.
In "Soultaming the Serpent," readers will discover a love story that defies convention, a tale of unexpected heroes, and a world where destiny and adventure are not bound by age. This LGBTQ+ fantasy romance is a testament to the enduring power of love, friendship, and the unquenchable thirst for adventure. P.M. Hammond's novel is a heartfelt and enthralling journey that will leave readers enchanted and yearning for more.
October 16, 2023
This book is a wonderful mixture of character study and adventure tale, with an inventive desert setting, an older female main character, and a supporting cast that includes an amputee and a shapeshifter full of seeeeecrets.
While the setting and key story details of this are very different, I found the character relationships between Jun and her friends reminded me a lot of Sophie from the book version of Howl’s Moving Castle—if Sophie were actually an older woman with a lot of life experience under her belt!
Aurel, well, he has big Howl Pendragon energy in some places—an inscrutable, beautiful, magical man with something overpowering at his core. I love them both!
My secret favorite, though, is Casey, who rounds out the main cast and earns my entire heart. I really love stories that prominently include characters with disabilities; Casey is an amputee who never lets it keep him out of the action for too long, and I felt like his depiction was really heartfelt and honest.
The core of the story engine is a quest plot nestled into a tale of a broken prophecy, with some delightful twists on the usual tropes in this type of storytelling, so I am loath to accidentally reveal too much here.
This short novel makes really good use of brisk descriptions and deft character work; it’s one of those books that had me a little weepy at the end, and I felt like it really earned it. It’s a story about breaking old patterns and finding new ones, and the love really shines through.
While the setting and key story details of this are very different, I found the character relationships between Jun and her friends reminded me a lot of Sophie from the book version of Howl’s Moving Castle—if Sophie were actually an older woman with a lot of life experience under her belt!
Aurel, well, he has big Howl Pendragon energy in some places—an inscrutable, beautiful, magical man with something overpowering at his core. I love them both!
My secret favorite, though, is Casey, who rounds out the main cast and earns my entire heart. I really love stories that prominently include characters with disabilities; Casey is an amputee who never lets it keep him out of the action for too long, and I felt like his depiction was really heartfelt and honest.
The core of the story engine is a quest plot nestled into a tale of a broken prophecy, with some delightful twists on the usual tropes in this type of storytelling, so I am loath to accidentally reveal too much here.
This short novel makes really good use of brisk descriptions and deft character work; it’s one of those books that had me a little weepy at the end, and I felt like it really earned it. It’s a story about breaking old patterns and finding new ones, and the love really shines through.
September 18, 2024
This has all the makings of a fantastical myth and it's explorations of different types of love was deeply refreshing. I very much appreciated a character who was aromantic, but expressed that they were also allosexual - I feel like most aromantic characters I have read are also asexual, so it was nice to see this representation.
While the core ideas and strong main trio of characters were enough to grip me through the story, I do feel like some of the word choices and sentence structures made the whole thing feel a bit clunky. I found myself having to re-read a lot of passages, so the story never really found its flow. The dialogue was also very awkward in a lot of instances. The ending also seemed quite rushed and left me somewhat unsatisfied.
However, if you're looking for a quick and exciting read with adventures and dragons and characters finding love in later life, I would recommend this!
While the core ideas and strong main trio of characters were enough to grip me through the story, I do feel like some of the word choices and sentence structures made the whole thing feel a bit clunky. I found myself having to re-read a lot of passages, so the story never really found its flow. The dialogue was also very awkward in a lot of instances. The ending also seemed quite rushed and left me somewhat unsatisfied.
However, if you're looking for a quick and exciting read with adventures and dragons and characters finding love in later life, I would recommend this!
May 21, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Older characters, a dragon, queer rep, a prophecy: this story had so much to offer. As much as I fawned over every detail of the dragon, the relationship between the three main characters was the best part, especially when Jun realizes that all forms of love are valid and important, even those that are not intimate or romantic.
A fun read that I will certainly pick up again for a reread.
A fun read that I will certainly pick up again for a reread.
September 21, 2023
This book was traumatizing for all the right reasons. Immersive, touching, heartbreaking, heartwarming, unique, engaging. I literally could not put it down except when I needed to sleep.
December 22, 2024
I wasn't sure what to expect of this. I knew it wasn't the conventional Chosen One trope, since the MC is a sixty year old woman, but I enjoyed it very much.
There is a bit of mythology that's important to know for the story. The last dragon has died fifty years ago, and without the dragon, there are no rains, and hence it has not rained in fifty years. A Chosen One is supposed to find a serpent before awakening the dragon, but a Chosen One has not awoken and hence the dragon has not awakened either.
Jun, the MC, is on the cusp of her sixtieth birthday. She has never left her village, and despite wanting to do a lot of things, she has never done any of them. Her best, and only, friend is Casey, the local tavern owner, who has been in love with her for years, but who Jun has rejected time and again. She is aro and though she loves Casey as a friend, she doesn't care for him as a lover. She has never married, which makes her an oddity and a pariah in her village.
After an argument with Casey, Jun decides to go to the next village on impulse. On her way back, it rains, for the first time in fifty years. In an attempt to find shelter, she stumbles over the body of a wounded, naked man named Aurel who she brings back to her house and takes care of his wounds. The villagers gossip that he's her lover, but Jun is unbothered. When a messenger from the Empress arrives saying that a Chosen One has awoken, she and Casey suspect it's Aurel. Jun offers to take Aurel to the capital despite his protests, but when a man named Sophren arrives at their village soon after, and tells Casey that Aurel is the serpent and that he should be killed, Casey has to go after Jun to convince her.
For such a small book, this packs a punch. I loved how it distinguishes between romantic love and love. What Jun feels for Casey is love, though it is not romantic. It's no less valid and has as much value as romantic love. The mythology of the Chosen One and the Dragon was an interesting one as well. Jun, Casey and Aurel are all characters that I rooted for. The queernormative society is something I loved. Jun and Casey both have their own personalities and convictions and their reluctance to get themselves embroiled in the Chosen One adventure makes sense considering they are both adults, even seniors, who have lived their whole lives in one place, and have creaking bones and aching joints.
If you love Chosen One books with a difference, you will love this story. Highly recommended for anyone who loves epic fantasy, mythology and flawed but strong characters.
There is a bit of mythology that's important to know for the story. The last dragon has died fifty years ago, and without the dragon, there are no rains, and hence it has not rained in fifty years. A Chosen One is supposed to find a serpent before awakening the dragon, but a Chosen One has not awoken and hence the dragon has not awakened either.
Jun, the MC, is on the cusp of her sixtieth birthday. She has never left her village, and despite wanting to do a lot of things, she has never done any of them. Her best, and only, friend is Casey, the local tavern owner, who has been in love with her for years, but who Jun has rejected time and again. She is aro and though she loves Casey as a friend, she doesn't care for him as a lover. She has never married, which makes her an oddity and a pariah in her village.
After an argument with Casey, Jun decides to go to the next village on impulse. On her way back, it rains, for the first time in fifty years. In an attempt to find shelter, she stumbles over the body of a wounded, naked man named Aurel who she brings back to her house and takes care of his wounds. The villagers gossip that he's her lover, but Jun is unbothered. When a messenger from the Empress arrives saying that a Chosen One has awoken, she and Casey suspect it's Aurel. Jun offers to take Aurel to the capital despite his protests, but when a man named Sophren arrives at their village soon after, and tells Casey that Aurel is the serpent and that he should be killed, Casey has to go after Jun to convince her.
For such a small book, this packs a punch. I loved how it distinguishes between romantic love and love. What Jun feels for Casey is love, though it is not romantic. It's no less valid and has as much value as romantic love. The mythology of the Chosen One and the Dragon was an interesting one as well. Jun, Casey and Aurel are all characters that I rooted for. The queernormative society is something I loved. Jun and Casey both have their own personalities and convictions and their reluctance to get themselves embroiled in the Chosen One adventure makes sense considering they are both adults, even seniors, who have lived their whole lives in one place, and have creaking bones and aching joints.
If you love Chosen One books with a difference, you will love this story. Highly recommended for anyone who loves epic fantasy, mythology and flawed but strong characters.
December 28, 2024
4.5 stars
What a lovely story this was. Very original concept and characters.
An exploration of love that exists in many different ways, and of destiny and how to refuse it.
I particularly appreciated that the disabled chatacter remained disabled and it kept affecting his ability to fight. I appreciate the realism of this.
What a lovely story this was. Very original concept and characters.
An exploration of love that exists in many different ways, and of destiny and how to refuse it.
I particularly appreciated that the disabled chatacter remained disabled and it kept affecting his ability to fight. I appreciate the realism of this.
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