Angoleth’s Heir
Meagan Poetschlag
Wheatmark (2023)
ISBN: 979-8887471099
Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Reader Views (01/2024)
“Angoleth’s Heir” (Dragons of Angoleth) by Meagan Poetschlag is a compelling and highly entertaining novel of magical realism that will soon become one of your favorites in the genre. Soraya is a New York City high school student with the usual ups and downs that come with the territory. But those highs and lows increase dramatically when she realizes she isn’t in complete command of an ability she hasn’t ever fully grasped. Emotions elevated, something within her wants to reveal itself, and like it or not, it wants to emerge. The only thing preventing her from transforming into something not quite human is a magical bracelet. But what if destiny has a different idea of her future? Maybe she isn’t meant to be human.
This is when an enchanting young man with crimson wings comes to her rescue. She is enamored by him. Her life takes an incredible turn when she instantly wakes up in what seems like another dimension on the other side of a portal. It is a parallel world called Angoleth, ruled by dragons and magic. But this magic is different. It’s dark and dangerous, and it wants to hurt those who live there.
Meagan Poetschlag has crafted an absorbing character-driven fantasy novel that you can become caught up in. The plot is riveting, and the characters, especially Soraya, are striking. The worldbuilding is immersive, and the situations are believable. This author has a detailed, emotional style that causes you to care about the characters and the conflicts going on, both internal and external. Illustrated by SueMei Mar, the artwork adds so much to the story as well.
I like how Soraya starts out being a high school student, and then her life is transformed in ways that would shake almost anyone. She’s trying to hold onto herself, maintain control, and figure out who she is, and what she’s meant to do in life, in light of the new darkness that surrounds her. She isn’t afraid to ask questions, even though they usually lead to even more questions. Her courage is one of her most endearing qualities. She could be an heir. She could be a hero. What is she?
The dragon aspect is really appealing, and if you love dragons, this story hits the spot. The romance is another added layer, and this author takes the fantasy romance to a higher level with the red-winged Ruinar, and those looking for a more mature, explicit relationship won’t be disappointed. This isn’t a children’s fairytale, just so you know. It’s meant for adults.
I like how the author grounds the story in the life of an everyday high school student, and then takes you to greater heights plot-wise. There are layers here, with wider, universal implications, so this novel has a lot going on besides basic good versus evil. If you’re ready to fall in love with a new fantasy romance series, make it “Angoleth’s Heir” (Dragons of Angoleth) by Meagan Poetschlag.
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