THE SERPENT RIDER

A young warrior faces horrifying beasts and evil magic in order to rescue her sister.

Twelve years ago, when Tanikala, the daughter of a great warrior, was born, a prophecy said she was destined to defeat the Great Bakunawa, a giant sea serpent who will devour the last moon and leave their world in darkness. Tani is training to become a Serpent Rider, a warrior with a personal flying elemental serpent. Unfortunately, Tani’s bakunawa egg hasn’t hatched yet. Without her serpent, she isn’t sure how she’ll protect those she loves, like her younger sister, Ligaya. Then an impatient Tani meets a woman in a vision who says she can craft a bakunawa for her. After a deadly monster attack on the village, Tani, tired of feeling helpless, makes a deal with the strange woman. Her new bakunawa is incredible, but she soon discovers that the price she must pay is her beloved sister. Desperate to save Ligaya, Tani enters the dangerous forest, faces beasts and ghouls, and finds unexpected allies and foes. But time is running out before the Great Bakunawa’s return. Based on Filipino folklore and legend, Diño’s debut is an action-packed fantasy filled with twists and turns. Readers will relate to Tani’s struggle to figure out her identity and find her strength while living up to her destiny and her father’s reputation. Tani’s beautiful but frightening world vividly incorporates many different tales, monsters, and creatures.

An engaging adventure full of Filipino magic.