Review: Dragonborn

Review: Dragonborn by Struan Murray

5*****

Blurb: The electric new fantasy series for fans of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief and Impossible Creatures, perfect for readers aged 9-12. Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad’s death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface. And flames spill from her mouth. Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright. But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .

THOUGHTS: Because of her over-protective, strict mother, Alex wants nothing more than to run into the nearby woods and scream! Which she does. And that’s when her entire life changes because she is a dragon! She is whisked away to a special island called Skralla where she meets lots of other kids like her. I loved the names of the different ages of kids from the Ashlings (youngsters) to the Emberlings like her. But Alex has trouble shifting into her dragon form. Her friends, teachers, and the bully all try to help her, but nothing works. But she does have a special power – she can hear the spirits of dead dragons. And that leads to trouble.

The settings are unique and well-written. You can “see” Alex’s room, the big house where they meet for meals, and more. The characters are unique and have real-to-them problems, especially Alex.

This is a story full of action, emotion, betrayal, secrets, and more. There are also giants, fairies, and, of course, dragons. For a YA, it is fast, intense, and full of adventures. If you like fantasy with great world building and characters, pick this one up.

Recommended.

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy of this book.