I'm Afraid You've Got Dragons by Peter S Beagle

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Last Unicorn comes a whimsical and powerful new novel where a loveable cast of characters, trapped within their roles as dragon hunter, princess, and more, must unite to take their fates into their own hands.

In the backwater kingdom of Bellemontagne, dragons range from mouse-sized pests to castle-smashing behemoths. Gaius Aurelius Constantine Heliogabalus Thrax—who prefers to be called Robert—has just inherited his late father’s job as a dragon catcher and exterminator. It's a career he loathes, partly because he has a soft spot for dragons and feels a kinship with them, but mostly because his true dream is to transcend his humble origins and become a prince’s valet—a dream he believes is impossible.

Robert's journey begins with an unexpected twist of fate, taking him far from the life of dragon hunting he despises. Along the way, he encounters a cast of characters equally bound by their societal roles, including a princess longing for adventure and freedom, and other fantastical figures each wrestling with their own destinies.

As Robert and his newfound companions confront challenges and uncover hidden truths about themselves and their world, they must decide whether to accept the fates handed to them or to forge their own paths. In doing so, they discover the true meaning of courage, friendship, and the power of self-determination.

Blending humor, heart, and a touch of magic, this enchanting tale reminds us that we all have the power to rewrite our stories and pursue our dreams, no matter how improbable they may seem.