Fresh Fiction Blog | Deborah Cooke | Heroes With Sharp Senses

My Dragonfire series features heroes who are dragon shape shifters. That means they’re hunky guys one minute, and fire-breathing dragons the next. (And yes, this is tons of fun.) I’ve always been crazy for dragons and always have loved shifter stories. To me, this was a natural combo. Just to give you a bit of background, the idea of the series is that my dragon shifters (the Pyr) defend the treasure of the earth and are the guardians of the four elements. They’ve been around for millennia, and as you might imagine, they’ve had their spats with each other. They tend to be independent, opinionated and often hot-tempered. They are, however, locked into the final battle for the defense of the earth, against the Slayers — which are Pyr who have turned bad. Because these are romances, there needs to be a love story, too: when each Pyr meets his destined mate, sparks literally fly. That meeting, which occurs once in a lifetime and signals the opportunity to create a son, is called the firestorm. It’s not an easy interval for the Pyr hero - he has to romance his destined mate; convince her that when she sees him turn into a dragon, it’s okay; conceive a son; defend her from the Slayers who are drawn to the firestorm (and usually think that the easiest way to have less Pyr is to kill human mates); and frequently he also has a mission to complete. There’s sexual tension and romance and dragon fights and it’s a whole lot of fun.

Niall Talbot, the Pyr hero of my current release — WHISPER KISS, which is Dragonfire #5 — is typical of my dragon heroes. He’s running a business on his own because his partner sold out, he’s volunteered to eliminate the shadow dragons, he’s being stalked by his twin brother (who has gone to the dark side) and at the same time, his firestorm sparks with the most unlikely woman he could imagine having as a partner. I like keeping my heroes on their toes, but Rox — the heroine of WHISPER KISS — went one step farther in those stiletto books. She tickled the dragon’s belly. Niall, I’m sorry to say, never had a chance!

Back when I started to plan the Dragonfire series, I did what I always do — I dug into research books. I spent time in libraries, and surfing around online. I read everything I could find about dragons — and there’s a lot — then picked through it, deciding what elements to use in my stories about dragon shape shifter heroes. We’ll talk about one of those ingredients today.

One thing that came up time and again was the idea that dragons have very keen eyesight. They see things that are very far away, even very tiny things. This, presumably, is an evolutionary development to ensure that they can effectively guard their hoards. (Assuming that we can talk about dragons and evolution in the same sentence!) Hoards and treasure also are recurring themes in stories about dragons.

Chinese dragons are reputed to have very keen hearing, too. This got me to thinking about all of the senses. It reminded me of the dog, Jip, in the Dr. Dolittle books, the dog which could discern all sorts of scents on the wind. He would have these running monologues as he mumbled to himself, naming each scent. I loved that part of the story because there was always something in the wind that you didn’t anticipate. Cinnamon. In an ocean breeze. I’m sure the author had a lot of fun with those passages.

In the end, I decided to have my dragon shifters have very keen senses, all five of them. So, they do smell lots of things, especially subtle scents. They smell fear, for example, or — as Niall does at the beginning of WHISPER KISS — they smell danger.

They also have very sharp vision, seeing tiny things move at a great distance, but also seeing more than the women who fall in love with them expect. They’re very perceptive, these Pyr guys, partly because they tend have lived a few centuries and partly because of that sharp eyesight. More than one heroine in this series has thought that the Pyr who was romancing her could read her thoughts. It’s both sexy to have a hot guy so focused on you, and maybe a little bit worrisome — depending what your thoughts might be. Rox - in WHISPER KISS - fears that Niall can see her secrets. She has a bunch of them, and doesn’t like anyone knowing them (that’s the point of secrets, right?) so that impression of Niall spooks her a bit. (I should probably tell you that Rox has a major thing for dragons. It’s all she can do to not jump Niall’s bones, once she knows what he is.)

My Pyr also have a wider range of hearing than humans do. They hear sounds at higher frequencies (think of dog whistles) and those at lower frequencies than we do, as well. In fact, they communicate with each other in something called old-speak, which is conversation (usually terse) uttered at a very low frequency. Humans who overhear it mistake the rumbling sound for thunder or a passing train. As you might imagine, every heroine has issues with old-speak once she knows it exists!

I’ll let you think about what heightened senses of touch and taste will do for a romance. I’m sure you can imagine that without my help!

The thing that’s interesting about this is the challenge it gives me as a writer. Usually, writers use as many senses as possible to evoke a scene, and to give the reader the sense of "being there". I like to put readers right there, to experience the story with my characters. But when I’m writing from the point of view of one of my Pyr guys, I have to try to go deeper. I have to find that extra scent, the one that a human might not notice - the scent of burned toast in a cellar wafting down from three stories above, for example - the one that makes the reader understand what it is to be Pyr.

In WHISPER KISS, Niall and Rox embark on an adventure into uncharted territory. I’m not going to tell you where they went or what they find, but I hope that when you read those passages, you feel as keenly in that place as the Pyr.

Today, we’re going to have a contest, too. Comment on this post and tell me what you think is the most distinctive trait of dragons, or of my Pyr. Is it the treasure? The longevity? The sharp senses? The ability to breathe fire? Or something else? Alternatively, you can tell me what really puts you in the world of a story? What pulls you right into another time and place, keeping you there until you’ve turned the last page?

One person who comments here will win a signed copy of WHISPER KISS!

Deborah Cooke sold her first romance novel — a medieval — in 1992. Since then, she has written and published over forty romance novels and novella, under the pseudonyms Claire Delacroix and Claire Cross as well as under her own name. Her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books was THE BEAUTY, part of her successful Bride Quest series. In 2009, she was the Writer-in-Residence at the Toronto Public Library, the first time they have offered a residency focused on the romance genre. She currently writes the Dragonfire series of paranormal romances, with the current release being book #5, WHISPER KISS by Deborah Cooke. REBEL by Claire Delacroix, the third book of her trilogy of future-set paranormal romances featuring fallen angel heroes, will be published in September. She lives with her husband.

You can learn more about Deborah and her books on her website for Deborah Cooke orwebsite for Claire Delacroix find Deborah on Facebook

Comments

Although the ability to breath fire is pretty cool, I think longevity is even better. Of course, living a really long time is not that great unless one can also be mentally and physically vital as well. Living for a long time in a nursing home isn't what people have in mind.
(S Tieh 3:15am August 20, 2010)

Has to be breathing fire. No self respecting dragon would be without this.
(Mary Preston 3:48am August 20, 2010)

I read KISS OF FIRE earlier this year and quite enjoyed the dragon friends. Since then I haven't had the chance to read another but hope to soon. What I particularly liked about the first book was being able to imagine myself in the area of MI in which the action takes place. I don't live all that far from there. I'd like to get to read the other books but I've been too caught up in the necessities of life for the last year.
Will you write only about the dragons that you introduced in KoF, or are they joined by more brethern. At least your dragons don't seem intent on guzzling blood. I refuse to read about vampires. Sorry.
(Sigrun Schulz 4:19am August 20, 2010)

Breathers of fire! What fun!
Blessings,
Marjorie
(Marjorie Carmony 6:19am August 20, 2010)

When i was growing up, and still now actually my mum had a major thing for dragons. We had plates on the wall, puzzles on the wall, and half of 1 wall filled with dragon figurines- so i kind of got attatched to them too!! They are beautiful, often portrayed as terrifying, but what i like most about dragons in general and all of the Pyr (especially Delaney- he and Rafferty are my faves!) is that they are protectors.They keep the precious things safe, be it sparkly things or people, or land- without land people or sparkly things- it wouldnt be a very good world would it!!!! What other creature- real or imagined- could you feel so completely safe with? nothing but a dragon if you ask me!!
(Sam Camp 8:53am August 20, 2010)

what keeps me intersted in a good book? good dialogue, strong emotions (but not in a corny way), scene descriptions (but not overdone), and a good story line. I also enjoy action and surprises!

thanks for the chance to win!
(Tina Werner 9:14am August 20, 2010)

Dragons have always been enchanting, wild, mystical creatures. Shapeshifting just makes them all the more intoxicating…. Having the element of fire (Fire Breathing) would defiantly be a soul burning experience of a life time… The wings of a dragon taking flight could most certainly sweep a girl off her feet… Taking her places she’d only dream of. Ahhh, the stuff of Dragons. The attraction, the alluring enchantment, and the overwhelming intoxicating thrill, has always been delightful. I have only just begun to read your story’s. I am looking forward to all the others in your Dragonfire series…. Thank you so much Deborah for the wonderful adventure….

Reply
(Corry Lloyd 9:46am August 20, 2010)

Hmmm. Most distinctive trait? I like the fact that the dragons are drawn to one mate and if they miss the firestorm they have to wait for the mate to be reincarnated. I write paranormal romance too, and I'm a big fan of the Dragonfire series. Looking forward to reading Whisper Kiss!
(Margaret Bail 10:02am August 20, 2010)

I believe I like the trait that the Pyr are able to experience all 5 senses to such a degree!! All humans should be so lucky!! You put such detail into your blog, that I am totally engrossed, and ready to read your book. It's not my normal genre of romance novel, but your description has me so interested, that I have to make sure I have this one on my reading list. Thank you for taking so much time and dedication to get the story accurate!!
(Peggy Roberson 10:13am August 20, 2010)

I don't usually buy books like this, but this series sounds wonderful.

I love all the traits of the dragons, but think I like the one mate of a lifetime the best. I also love the senses, breathing fire, and their longevity and health.
(Cathy Phillips 10:15am August 20, 2010)

Love this series. Dragon shifters are in my top three paranormal creatures.
(Pam Kinsey 10:18am August 20, 2010)

Hi Deborah, the suspense is killing me
here. I should get my copy soon, my
local bookstore didn't have it and I had
to order it online, so yay post office.
The more I read you talk about this
novel the more intrigued I become.
Thanks
Deb
(Debbie Haupt 10:42am August 20, 2010)

I really like the heightened senses the best!
(Cathie Veres 11:12am August 20, 2010)

I have always have a fondness for dragons. I'm going to have to go check out and buy your Dragonfire series (okay, it's the dragon shifting heroes that I'm interest in).
(Kai Wong 11:29am August 20, 2010)

Not my first choice when it comes to what to read next, but have been trying to broaden my horizon. Sounds like an interesting storyline. Thanks for a chance to win.
(Sheila True 11:57am August 20, 2010)

I have not read any of your work, but this looks like something I would like to read. I have always liked dragons and stories about them. I am looking forward to reading this series.
(Joyce Bruner 12:15pm August 20, 2010)

I haven't read a dragon themed story. As for what keeps me glued to the pages of a story, that would be well developed characters, a bit of mystery, and a story that keeps up a good pace.
(Leni Kaye 12:26pm August 20, 2010)

Dragons as shifters are new to me, so this is all very exciting! The description of the senses is not only intriguing but also sensual. I can only imagine one of the Pyr whispering, or would that be a low rumble, sweet nothings in Old Speak in the Heroines ear. Gives me chills. Yep, have to get my hands on some Dragons!
(Cynthia Netherton 12:48pm August 20, 2010)

I love dragons and dragon shapeshifters...cool!! Breathing fire is awesome. I will look up these books at the German amazon and put them on my wishlist right away!!!

I'm always drawn into a story with the action bursts into the first chapter, I have characters that I right away fall in love with and I have to read on to find out what happens to them.

It's all I can do not to go to the last few pages to really make sure they are ok...hehe!!!

Valerie
[email protected]
in Germany
(Valerie Bongards 1:35pm August 20, 2010)

Love your dragons, and especially the mate connection.
(Cathy MacDonald 1:41pm August 20, 2010)

Dragons as shapeshifters! Sounds like a awesome storyline. Looking forward to reading this series. Thanks for the chance to win.
(Teresa Ward 1:45pm August 20, 2010)

Love the title! I haven't read
a dragon book, yet. Yours could
be my first!
(Patricia Cochran 3:28pm August 20, 2010)

The longevity; the mystery that surrounds these creatures. Are they for good...are they evil, what makes them tick....
(Darci Paice 3:35pm August 20, 2010)

The fire has to be what sets them apart from everyone else.
(Maureen Emmons 4:15pm August 20, 2010)

The five senses pull me into the world the writer has created, but ultimately it's the emotional connection and pacing that keep me in the story from start to finish.

Thank you for offer such an awesome contest.
(Suzie Thompson 7:07pm August 20, 2010)

I love your books I've only just started reading them, Thay are fun and enchanting, real page turners
(Vickie Hightower 8:06pm August 20, 2010)

Love your s already have and read Whisper!
(Diane Sadler 9:35pm August 20, 2010)

I bet all that dragon research
was a lot of fun. Just an excuse
to read about one of your
favorite subjects, huh? lol
(Deidre Durance 10:15pm August 20, 2010)

ty for the book and then
i hope to win and then i let you now about how i know baout
he bookd
(Desiree Reilly 12:40pm August 21, 2010)

Sounds like an interesting book.Thanks for a chance to win it.
(Linda Hall 1:30am August 21, 2010)

I love dragon shapeshifters. Great books!
(Cheryl Lynne 11:39am August 21, 2010)

i have read some shifter books and now geting in to them would like to win your book and blog about it
(Desiree Reilly 2:52pm August 21, 2010)

It's the longevity and the ancient history
of the creature that adds mystery to their
lore.
(Sue Ahn 4:35pm August 21, 2010)

I think the trait would be the ability to
breath fire. Many other "creatures"
have the other traits, but none that I
know of breath fire.

As far as what pulls me into a story, it
is well drawn characters and a well
developed and executed story.

This sounds like a good series. I look
froward to reading it.
(Patricia Barraclough 9:50pm August 21, 2010)

I love books about dragon shape shifters! I can't wait to read this one.
(Martha Lawson 11:36pm August 21, 2010)

Dragons (and dragon shifters) are strong, mystical and magnificent creatures, the most noble of the shifter world.
(Nancy Gilliland 1:15am August 22, 2010)

FINALLY I managed to log in!

Sorry to have appeared to be AWOL - I've been reading your comments and trying to log in to reply.

But here I am -- just in time to pick a winner! Better late than never.

d
(Deborah Cooke 7:09am August 22, 2010)

Are the dragons only male - what happens if they have a girl? Is it only the first born son who becomes a dragon? I need to start reading these books to answer my questions - right?
(Karin Tillotson 9:57am August 22, 2010)

I really enjoy dragons and always have. I'm not sure it's the fire breathing capabilities or not that enchants me. Maybe it was the movie DragonHeart w/ Sean Connery that entranced me.
(MaryAnne Banks 11:49am August 22, 2010)

I love your Dragonfire series.
The dragon shifters are great
(Julie Swaney 12:12pm August 22, 2010)

haven't read these books yet but looking forward to them
(Betty Conrad 9:51pm August 22, 2010)

Hi Karin -

Most of the Pyr are male, but there's one female dragon shifter at a time. She's supposed to be a prophetess and have special powers.

A Pyr can conceive as many sons as he likes (or SHE likes) with his mate, once they've found each other. They'll all be dragon shifters - they come into their powers at puberty - but the firestorm only happens when the couple meet.

But you should still read the series.

Thanks everyone for all the great comments!
d
(Deborah Cooke 3:58pm August 23, 2010)

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