I am currently reading through my random collection of dragon books. On my table right now is the young reader's book, "Here There be Dragons". Next I shall be reading either the next Timothy Zahn "Dragon Back" book, the rest of the "Dragon Champion" series, or the fourth Naomi Novik "Temeraire" book.
Aside from anything written by Naomi Novik, the others would probably not be the top in one's best interest unless they have a particular liking for large, flying, anthropomorphic lizards.
Most of my other books are from independent authors I meet at random conventions. It's a whole new game when it comes to that sort of expensive endeavor. Twenty-five percent of the independent books I buy are absolutely terrible, and most of the rest are only moderately okay. I don't get what it is with new authors and their urge to write bible-length D&D trilogies. Even so, there is that small percentage of independent books that are absolute gems, something better and far more fresh than anything I could pick up at a library or book store, so it is worth it in the end.
Sadly, I could not honestly recommend any good independent books at this time. Not only would they be hard to find, but also expensive.
Robert Heinlein wrote some good science fiction books, though the latter ones are much better than his first few. Keep in mind that these are old books.
If you're looking for something more recent, the "Saga of Seven Sons" is a good place to read.
(jk)
