/lit/ - Literature

>>20614797
The Dragon's Banker - Scott Warren (2019)

The Dragon's Banker is exactly what it seems like based on the title. A banker is forced to be in service to a dragon for the purpose of transitioning his wealth from the old economic system to the new one that's entirely fiat. It's set in a mostly standard fantasy world. There are humans, nomadic elves, dwarves who only live in the cold, jungle-dwelling orcs, goblin laborers, and a new race that's humanoid and loves blasting powder. Dragons have become a myth. Magic exists, but has very little place in the story. Overall, I'd describe this story as jaunty.

The focus is on matters relating to the dragon's investments from start to finish. Economics are involved, but more so in brief theoretical terms and practical applications than anything that requires much understanding of how it works. The only adventure is that which is required of the financial endeavors, whether that be traveling for a week to complete a trade deal in person or testing out new discoveries to corner the market. As a banker, physical conflict is avoided whenever possible as he hasn't the slightest martial prowess. There's some intrigue on his part, but not much. Romance and similar matters are almost non-existent.

This standalone novel is told in a straightforward manner without much depth to the plot, characters, setting, ideas, or whatever else. I primarily derived enjoyment from its simple pleasures and that it was different than much else I've read. I didn't dislike anything about it, which makes it all the more unfortunate that it wasn't better developed and didn't fully commit to its ideals. I suppose that would've made for a different book that as a social fantasy may have been less accessible and with lesser appeal, maybe. For me this put it in an position where if I read more that's similar but better done, I may have to later lower its estimation. However, for now I'll give it the benefit of the doubt as a fun self-published read and encourage those whose find it interesting to give it a try.

Rating: 3.5/5

A novelette is included at the end which has seemingly nothing to do with the book called "Forgo Quest". It's a parody of The Chosen One and similar tropes. There's almost nothing to it aside from that idea, so it's more like an extended comedy skit than anything else. Even so, I found it rather amusing.
Enjoyable