The Citadel unfolds on the protected planet of Dianis, a Middle Age world, where Achelous, the architect of the planet's defense against extrasolars, has been abducted by the Paleowrights. Chained and tortured by the powerful religious order, he is carried off to the Empire of Nak Drakas, where his fate is unknown.
After the mayhem and outrage of Achelous's kidnapping, Marisa, his lover and merchant princess, embarks on a mission of restitution. To rescue Achelous, she must go to the heart of her enemy, the Drakan Empire, and save him from Viscount Helprig. The Paleowright clergyman does not care what Achelous may know, just that he has blasphemed the Diunesis faith and shall be hung before the archbishop.
However, the commandant of the Drakan secret service is not so quick to execute. He suspects Achelous is an Avarian, an agent of a galactic federation, the very people the Paleowrights revere as gods.
As corsairs raid the planet, Paleowrights conspire, and intervention of the Avarian Federation looms, Marisa races against time. Her success could trigger a global war, but can one man’s knowledge be worth such consequences? The answer lies in what he knows.
After the mayhem and outrage of Achelous's kidnapping, Marisa, his lover and merchant princess, embarks on a mission of restitution. To rescue Achelous, she must go to the heart of her enemy, the Drakan Empire, and save him from Viscount Helprig. The Paleowright clergyman does not care what Achelous may know, just that he has blasphemed the Diunesis faith and shall be hung before the archbishop.
However, the commandant of the Drakan secret service is not so quick to execute. He suspects Achelous is an Avarian, an agent of a galactic federation, the very people the Paleowrights revere as gods.
As corsairs raid the planet, Paleowrights conspire, and intervention of the Avarian Federation looms, Marisa races against time. Her success could trigger a global war, but can one man’s knowledge be worth such consequences? The answer lies in what he knows.
*** Awards for The Citadel ***
"Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction."
--Literary Titan Silver Award
Literary Reviews for The Citadel
"A female-led epic that brilliantly blends classic and contemporary sci-fi themes, this adventure of cosmic protectors and priceless planetary bounty is a meticulously written marvel. The level of detail and backstory is intense, the characters are sharply developed, and the novel’s stakes are both unique and existential. Easily stirring the imagination with ancient aliens, futuristic federations, and a dash of romantic heroism, Dravis has built an unforgettable saga of humanity among the stars."
--Self-Publishing Review
"Every aspect of The Citadel embodies the term 'epic'. Comparable to A Song of Ice and Fire or The Iliad, this book is brimming with international and intergalactic conflicts, espionage, politicking, and combat."
--Literary Titan
"The Citadel is a tense and exciting sci-fi fantasy with a striking cast and intriguing plot. The novel centers on Achelous's kidnapping and the subsequent crusade to rescue him, unfolding in an engrossing and edgy storyline."
--The BookLife Prize
"The story really grabbed me by the time the rescue was in planning, as well as the discoveries made inside the mountain. After fifteen hundred years, the message left there still resonates: “She said they still had hope,” …. Fans of epic sci fi will appreciate the parallels to favorite science fiction shows, and our own society.
--Lisa Lickel, Wisconsin Writer's Association
"The Citadel by Frank Dravis is packed with high stakes and features an intricate tapestry of political intrigue, personal bravery, and deep-rooted mystery. Dravis’s storytelling excels in creating rich, multi-dimensional characters."
--Romuald Dzemo, Readers’ Favorite
"Frank Dravis' world-building is impeccable, focusing on the intricate relations and the consequences of humanity's expansion into the galaxy. The concept of ULUP (Universal Law of Unclaimed Planets) adds an exciting layer of moral complexity as nations and factions struggle with the consequences of their actions."
-- Divine Zape, Readers’ Favorite
"Five-star review. Wonderful story of triumph over oppression. Highly recomended."
Wisconsin Writer's Association
"The tension mounts with each turn of the page, culminating in a gripping climax that leaves readers satisfied, yet also eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling saga. Overall, The Citadel is a compelling blend of science fiction and fantasy, offering a riveting tale of courage and resilience that fans of compelling, emotive sci-fi are sure to adore."
--K.C. Finn, Readers’ Favorite