Month: December 2015

May Peace Prevail

 Health and Happiness to All

  Temeraire, an irrepressible dragon

From the high seas to the coverts of England, this novel is full of adventure, action and amazingly lovable dragons. There are many kinds of dragons, but Temeraire is special. He is an Imperial Chinese Dragon. The dragons are aviators in the service of his Majesty. Oh, and did I mention they all talk?  And all are very intelligent, as well as brave and loyal to their life long handlers. Laurence, a Navy Captain, is Temeraire’s handler, or co-pilot, if you will. It was happenstance that brought the two together and now they are bonded for life.

Beautifully written and faithfully adhering to the norms and language of the 18 century, Naomi Novik has penned yet another page turner. Adults will enjoy this story, but I think it will resonate even better with YA males and teens.  An enjoyable read.

Uprooted, by Naomi Novik is a lush and vibrant novel, rich with imagery.  I’ve learned a lesson here about first impressions because somewhere during the first chapter I went,  well, maybe this isn’t for me . . .  then I read on and on  and soon I was captured not only by the protagonist, who is not your average heroine, but by the unfolding story.  Our protagonist,  Agnieszka is awkward, clumsy and not a beauty. But she is determined, stubborn and she has a gift, a gift of magic, new, untried and untamed. Sarkan, the Dragon Lord of the country named, Polnya, is likable despite his asperity. He is a master of magic who holds back the evil that threatens to overrun the people and the country. The evil in the Wood is contagious, sending its vines and roots into the villages.
Ultimately, it is a fantastic story about the depth of friendship, love, betrayal, sacrifice and unyielding determination against the roots of evil.  While I’m not generally a fan of fantasy novels, I couldn’t stop reading this wonderful book.  I will note, however, despite the cover, which is beautiful and seemed clearly meant for tweens, is should be read primarily by young adults and adults due to some graphic sexual scenes.  I loved this author’s writing and I’ve no doubt I’ll be reading more of her works.

This is so lovely. I often wonder, what if a person’s life was written in words on their face?  Or perhaps, just what they were thinking the moment you first met them?  Think of the possibilities . . .