First in the “hot, hot” and humorous fantasy series from the New York Times bestselling author of the Scarred Earth Saga (Library Journal). Braith of the Darkness likes going through life unnoticed. Not an easy task for a She-dragon of royal descent. But the evil plots of her father are turning her quiet, boring life upside down, and she has now become the enemy of the most vicious queen her kind has ever known. But for once, Braith won’t have to fight alone. Not when the warrior dragon of her dreams is willing to risk everything to save her neck. Addolgar the Cheerful wishes he could say he’s helping the pretty royal strictly for honorable reasons—but he’d be lying. It’s not his fault, though! He didn’t tell Braith of the Darkness to have the most delicious tail he’s ever seen! Yet before Addolgar can get his very strong claws on that tail, heads are going to roll. Just hopefully not theirs . . . Praise for the Dragon Kin Series “Aiken’s patented mix of bloodthirsty action, crazy scenarios and hilarious dialogue have made this series a truly unique pleasure.”—RT Book Reviews (4½ Stars) “A chest thumping, mead-hall rocking, enemy slaying brawl of a good book.”—All Things Urban Fantasy “Laugh-out-loud funny—I loved it!”—Thea Harrison, New York Times bestselling author

Dragons: History, Myths, and Legends Greedy, wicked, vengeful, powerful. Dragons occupy a powerful position in cultural imaginations across the world and across the years. From C.S. Lewis's boy who almost deserved to be named Eustace Clarence Scrubb to the Hydra of Greek mythology, these creatures Contributors: "Dragonish Thoughts in Our Hearts: Dragons as Mirrors of the Human": Junius Johnson on Our Internal Tension "Desolation": Donald Catchings on Joining the Fight and "Violence of Fire," a short story on a coming conflict. Excerpt from The Chaos Spiral: Adam Brackin on Dragons in the Bible "Wangerin and Wyrm": Christine Norvell on a Great and Cosmic Evil "A Tale of Two Dragons: Reflections on Corruption, Conviction, Grace, and Sacrament": Melissa Cain Travis on a Restoration of Humanity "The Cardinal": Jacqueline Wilson with a poem on a Loss of Humanity "Grathugar": George Scondras with a short story on a Glory-Seeking Knight "St George and the Dragon: Inspiration and Identity": W.H.G. Kingston on the Heroic Knight "Lewis’s Dragons and Materialism: A Reflection on Eustace Scrubb and Other Dragons": Clark Weidner on the Need for Imagination "Hercules and the Hydra": Alex Markos on a Christian Retelling "Dragons, Snakes and Demons: A Medieval and Biblical Bestiary for Modern Minds": Ted W. Wright on Dragons of History. "Job and His Dragon": Carla Alvarez on the Problem of Evil "The Forbidden Fountain": A short story by Azalea Dabill on a Dragon’s Poison "Nella Sua Voluntade": Elizabeth Martin on Challenging Dragonish Archetypes "Kazuo Ishiguro’s The Buried Giant: The Dragon of False Memory": Tracey Leary on Reconciliation An Excerpt from Dragonslayer: Beginnings: Carey Green on Courage "The Dragon’s Demise: Experiencing Apocalypse": Jesse W. Baker on the Relevance of Revelation .Cover Art Our cover illustration was created by Chilean artist, apologist, and physician Virginia de la Lastra. Summer 2022 Volume 5, Issue 2 2r0 pages

A high-flying fantasy “packed with bold adventure and sizzling sensuality”—first in the series by the New York Times bestselling author (RT Book Reviews). It’s not always easy being a female warrior with a nickname like Annwyl the Bloody. Men tend to either cower in fear—a lot—or else salute. It’s true that Annwyl has a knack for decapitating legions of her ruthless brother’s soldiers without pausing for breath. But just once it would be nice to be able to really talk to a man, the way she can talk to Fearghus the Destroyer. Too bad that Fearghus is a dragon, of the large, scaly, and deadly type. With him, Annwyl feels safe—a far cry from the feelings aroused by the hard-bodied, arrogant knight Fearghus has arranged to help train her for battle. With her days spent fighting a man who fills her with fierce, heady desire, and her nights spent in the company of a magical creature who could smite a village just by exhaling, Annwyl is sure life couldn't get any stranger. She’s wrong . . . And just wait until you meet the rest of the family . . . Praise for the Dragon Kin Series “Aiken’s patented mix of bloodthirsty action, crazy scenarios and hilarious dialogue have made this series a truly unique pleasure.”—RT Book Reviews (4½ Stars) “A chest thumping, mead-hall rocking, enemy slaying brawl of a good book.”—All Things Urban Fantasy “Laugh-out-loud funny—I loved it!”—Thea Harrison, New York Times bestselling author

Zombies, werewolves and chainsaw-wielding maniacs are tried-and-true staples of horror films. But none can match the visceral dread evoked by a child with an innocent face and a diabolical stare. Cinema's evil children attack our cherished ideas of innocence and our innocent bystander status as the audience. A good horror film is a scary ride--a "devil child" movie is a guilt trip. This book examines 24 international films--with discussions of another 100--that in effect "indict" viewers for crimes of child abuse and abandonment, greed, social and ecological negligence, and political and war crimes, and for persistent denial of responsibility for them all. For 75 years evil children have ritually rebuked audiences and, in playing on our guilt, established a horror subgenre that might be described as a blood-spattered rampage on an ethical mission.

"Evolving Power Economies: China and USA Journey to Global Leadership" delves into the complex and intertwined economic landscapes of the world's two largest economies. This comprehensive exploration offers a deep dive into how China and the USA have emerged as global powerhouses, each following its unique path marked by innovation, strategy, and resilience. Moving into the supply chain resilience and economic security chapter, the focus shifts to the geopolitical risks and strategic challenges both nations face concerning critical supply chains. By investigating key sectors such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, the book uncovers vulnerabilities and discusses various mitigation strategies implemented by China and the USA. We analyze the ongoing debate between localization and globalization of production, considering how recent global disruptions have influenced economic policies and strategic decisions in both countries. In green technology and sustainable development, we compare the renewable energy policies of China and the USA, exploring their investments in solar, wind, and hydropower. This chapter delves into the rapid development of electric vehicles in both nations, comparing market trends, consumer adoption rates, and policy incentives that drive the shift toward sustainable mobility. We also explore economic strategies for climate change mitigation, including carbon pricing and green finance, and examine circular economy practices that enhance resource efficiency. Middle-class expansion and economic mobility are central themes in another chapter, where we analyze trends in socioeconomic mobility and income inequality in China and the USA. By examining the role of education systems, healthcare accessibility, and housing markets, the book provides a comprehensive look at the factors driving economic disparities and wealth accumulation. Case studies on education-to-employment pathways and healthcare outcomes highlight the differences and similarities in fostering economic mobility in both countries. The discussion on state-owned enterprises versus private sector dynamics offers a historical perspective on the evolution of SOEs in China and contrasts this with the private enterprise landscape in the USA. We investigate the impact of these differing models on innovation, market competition, corporate governance, and global expansion strategies, providing a nuanced view of how each economy balances state control with market freedom. Throughout the book, chapters on financial systems, trade policies, demographic shifts, and rural-urban disparities provide a holistic understanding of the factors shaping economic policies and growth strategies in China and the USA. From the role of fintech in disrupting traditional banking to the intricacies of bilateral trade agreements and the challenges posed by aging populations, the book captures the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of these two economies. "Evolving Power Economies" is not just a comparative study; it's a comprehensive narrative that captures the complexities, challenges, and opportunities of the 21st century's two most influential economies. With detailed analysis, real-world examples, and thoughtful insights, this book is an essential read for anyone looking to understand the forces shaping the global economic landscape today.

Dragons are real! And here's the proof! Evidence of dangerous dragons taking flight and breathing fire, and heroic knights, saving virtuous maidens and terrified villagers from death and destruction is plenty in England when you dig deep. This pocket reference book details these ancient folklores found in abundance in the old counties of England. Descriptions of each of these legendary animals are truly startling from their curious and ferocious appearances, to their inherent, and sometimes magical abilities. They are among the first of the ancient mythical creatures and are regarded with fascinating awe. Their tales continue to inspire generations.

From a lost city in the desert to a cave alight with thousands of glowworms, learn about some of the most unusual places on earth and the myths, legends, and history behind each of them! Looking at places like The Skeleton Coast in Namibia, Wizard Island in the United States, and The Fairy Tale Route in Germany, The Dark Hedges and Other Magical Places that Really Exist takes young readers on a journey around the world to real places that sound straight out of fantasy. Featuring both natural and man-made wonders, this travel book combines history and storytelling to explore the far reaches of the earth.

Zaida Rivera. Age twelve. Born on 20th May. Zodiac sign: Taurus. Loves books and loves to get her hands on as many as she can. She’s also flexible (incredibly flexible!). But that’s not all … There’s her secret: she’s a witch, and now an apprentice at Magikals School of Magical Study and Practices. It’s all she’s wanted her entire life, to become a student at Magikals just like most of her family was. For her, it’s starting a new chapter in her life with her new friends at Magikals: Ro, Nick, Chris, and Wang. But life takes a turn ever since she stepped foot in Magikals. And the next moment, everyone has their eyes on her, secrets are uncovered, and trouble is following her everywhere she is headed. So are danger and the unknown. And she’s definitely not ready for it all.

Fia finally achieved her dream of becoming a knight, and was even assigned to the prestigious First Knight Brigade! But her unusual feats of strength and magic are already attracting unwanted attention. Keeping her saint powers a secret is proving harder than expected. Now, a black dragon has been sighted in Starfall Forest, and Fia is sent on a mission to find it...but does this black dragon have anything to do with her familiar, Zavilia?