The Golden Cord

The Golden Cord: Book One of the Iron Dragon Series: Some bonds can never be broken. A hunter must leave behind the woman he loves, give up all hope of survival, as he is forced to guide his most hated enemies on a suicidal journey to the lair of the dragon king. "This is a story that's worth your time. It's almost like going back to that first fantasy novel that totally captivated you and you read it over and over again. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED." -Russell Davis, author, editor, and President of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America; "A good mix of action, angst, and romance. The Golden Cord has fine action sequences, like many a fantasy novel, but Paul Genesse takes the time to make the protagonist and his companions much more than hack and slashers. They have hopes, fears, doubts, secret motivations, and backstories that give the action gravitas. Plenty of swordplay and slaying for the action junkies, but also plenty of self-doubt and romance for those looking for a deeper story." -Donald J. Bingle, author of Forced Conversion; "Paul Genesse's tale is elegantly written and filled with rich, believable heroes and villains. He transports you to a vibrant fantasy world that feels so real and complex you won't want to leave. It is irresistible." -Jean Rabe, author of the Finest Trilogy from Tor Books; About the Book: Death comes from above in the plateau world of Ae'leron, where griffins and dragons prowl the sky. Those who escape becoming prey-or enslavement in the Drobin Empire-hide in the secret villages. Surviving in the depths of the Thornclaw Forest, the people of Cliffton live on the edge of the Void-an abyss of clouds that surrounds the plateaus and blocks the view in the Underworld. Guardians work tirelessly to protect each village, and Drake, along with his pair of guard dogs, is Cliffton's most dedicated and vigilant. When Drobin warriors appear outside the gates, he is forced to confront his most hated enemies. But the secretive Drobin hide the true nature of their journey and why wyverns hunt them. Drake's world becomes a whirlwind of change as he leaves his true love and guides the Drobin on a suicidal journey to the lair of the Dragon King. He must do this, for if he doesn't, war will consume the world and destroy everything he loves.