The race for the throne of Karkov begins in this sweeping European-inspired historical fantasy from debut author Dale Griffin. The Last Lion of Karkov (Mar 2023, Books Fluent) follows twin sisters, Jillian and Natalia, both set on different paths to different thrones and their fight for acceptance in this male-dominated patriarchal society. For fans of Guy Gavriel Kay and Tamora Pierece’s Lioness series, The Last Lion of Karkov dives deeply into the psyche of its characters pulling them across the tumultuous terrain of politics as they mature into the strong female leaders they were always destined to become.
Dale Griffin creates an epic fantasy debut that amplifies the hardships of politics, the sacrifice of love, and the enduring bond between two sisters. As a tribute to the characters in his story, he plans to donate $2 of every book sold to Girls, Inc, an organization he believes embodies Jillian and Natalia’s beliefs and the themes of empowering young girls to be independent and bold.
THE LAST LION OF KARKOV: Spending their lives together, Natalia and Jillian are closely bonded, yet polar opposites. Natalia is set to marry off to another kingdom as Jillian prepares to become the first lioness of Karkov. While Jillian is the stronger of the two, Natalia’s softness for battle has kept Jillian on her toes protecting her throughout their lives. But when Jillian’s position as heiress is threatened by revolutionaries opposing her position on the throne, it’s up to Natalia to start protecting Jillian. As the world around them falls to political turmoil, Jillian and Natalia must face their biggest battle as sisters and warriors.
I dont say this often but I fell in love with this book and the characters therein. This book brought me to tears numerous times. This isn't a short novel either its almost 600 pages and worth every page worth.
Jillian and Odani are amazing but Natalia is definitely my favorite. She can be sweet and kind and caring but fierce loyal and intimidating at the same time.
This author builds an amazing culture and storyline with so many amazing characters countries royalty and warriors.
After that ending I am wanting another about Karkov for what happens at the ending. I pray I am not disappointed.
Looking forward to more from this author he is amazing.
5 Stars
DALE GRIFFIN is a historical fantasy writer releasing his debut novel "The Last Lion of Karkov" in March 2023. Griffin considers himself a traveler and a writer as a result. Married to his best friend and travel partner, the two explore Europe as frequently as possible. Inspired by those journeys, Griffin uses his experiences to influence his imagined worlds and the memorable characters who dwell in them.
An interview with Dale Griffin
Jillian and Natalia are deeply developed characters in this story. Could you go into what it was like to create these characters and the work it took to evolve them throughout the story?
I wanted to create twin sisters who were subjected to the same cruel upbringing yet emerged from their circumstances with completely different personalities. Natalia’s character evolved more over the revisions than Jillian’s.
Despite some readers finding Jillian too quick-tempered and unfair, my thoughts are that she is the direct result of her childhood. Natalia, being a person who puts others before herself, should be considered the enigma. Early drafts did not portray her as spoiled during her youth, but I preferred to show her evolve into a proper heroine, with her love of Jillian being the reason.
The story is set in a European setting despite being an epic fantasy world. What went into creating the world Jillian and Natalia live in?
Europe — its people, its landscapes, its cities, and its history — inspires me to write. I set out on writing the Euro-inspired story without knowing what the reader would think about my imaginary places obviously being taken from real places. Luckily, early readers found that it helped them picture the setting, so I fully embraced the method and ran with it.
As a male author, what was your motivation to write a fantasy story focusing on two women fighting in a patriarchal society?
My favorite characters are feisty female protagonists who refuse to conform to what is expected of them. With Jillian in particular, I created a near-insurmountable obstacle to overcome and unleashed a ferocious lioness to attack it.
You must have also drawn a bit from real life. Can you tell us a bit about what parts inspired your real life?
It’s easier to write about what you know. I was riding horses by the age of 4, which helped to write a book set in this period. My engineering degree was part of the inspiration for Lorenzo. Most importantly, my wife provided many influences throughout the book.
You also plan to donate sales of your book to Girls, Inc. What is your motivation there and how do you believe this connects to the story?
It’s what Jillian and Natalia would want — to support girls in becoming bold and independent women.
What do you hope readers gain from the story?
I hope that I created characters who will linger in the thoughts of readers between readings and well after completing the book.
Are you working on any additional projects?
Yes, I have outlined a new book in a similar style where the lands are inspired by Scotland and Northern England, including their rivalry. A druidess is taken from her Highlands homeland to serve a Scottish-like ruler trying to preserve his title of king. But also, the continued “Last Lion of Karkov” story with the threat from the Desert Lion is never far from my thoughts.
R J Theodore* (they/she) is an author and graphic designer. Their short fiction has appeared in Lightspeed and Fireside Magazines as well as the award-winning Glitter + Ashes and Unfettered Hexes anthologies from Neon Hemlock Press.
