The Temeraire series by English author Naomi Novik is essentially one part fantasy epic and two parts classic historical fiction, making up an alternate history of the Napoleonic Era. Now, if you are half as reluctant as I am about reading a book with a dragon on the cover (or the word ‘dragon’ in the title) than you are quite reluctant indeed, but Novik is excellent at seamlessly fusing the real with the unreal, creating a story which can be enjoyed by fiction and non-fiction fans alike.
Following a British naval officer turned aviator and his Chinese Imperial dragon Temeraire, the story encompasses the enormity and grandeur of the Napoleonic War. The idea of these historical battles being fought as they were and where they were, but with the addition of dragon riding aerial corps is an excellent, and not unoriginal premise. This is not a dragon story with a sword and sorcery setting, but rather one dropped right into real world history.
With the cinimatic possibilities clear, the option rights have been purchased by none other than Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson.
” ‘Temeraire’ is a terrific meld of two genres that I particularly love — fantasy and historical epic,” Jackson said. “I can’t wait to see Napoleonic battles fought with a squadron of dragons. That’s what I go to the movies for.”
“As I was reading these books, I could see them coming to life in my mind’s eye,” Jackson said. “These are beautifully written novels, not only fresh, original and fast-paced, but full of wonderful characters with real heart.”
The first book in the series was retitled His Majesty’s Dragon in the States, and is to date followed by three further volumes (Throne of Jade, Black Powder War, and Empire of Ivory) with a fifth Victory of Eagles coming later this year. I recommend making the extra effort to get yourself the UK printings however (as pictured above), as the cover art is much classier and does not look like schlock fantasy fiction as the American printings do. Jackson’s film is not yet in production, and will undoubtedly have to wait until after his two The Hobbit films are complete.
