Dragonborn by Struan Murray

What worked:

From the synopsis, readers know Alex will become a dragon, but it’s fun to watch her slowly come to that realization. It may be the most captivating part of the whole story. Some readers may relate to Alex’s lack of freedom, as her mom strictly controls her life. Alex secretly sneaks into the forest to release her frustration and anger, but she also visits a favorite spot where she cherishes memories of her father. She still grieves for him, but she’ll learn later that she doesn’t know the full story of his death. Strange dreams and meeting a Skarren-Har named Oliphos precede her revelations about dragons. Dr. Archibald P. Puppinsworth provides the book’s introduction and periodic comments throughout the book and warns readers that dragons are “going to destroy humanity”.

Oliphos is an interesting character, as he’s been alive for generations. He’s extremely polite and understanding, even while imposing on others. The story takes a turn when Alex arrives home to find an uninvited Oliphos cooking a meal in her kitchen. He guides Alex to the dragon school, but other instructors aren’t as patient and understanding as Oliphos. Rannock has a tough-love philosophy and doesn’t coddle the dragons. Alex struggles to transform into her dragon form, but Rannock still puts her into the Rompus where she faces other dragons in one-on-one training battles. Luckily, Alex has a good friend named Kaida who offers moral support.

An underlying conflict concerns a legendary dragon named Drak Midna. He’s the only dragon larger than Oliphos, but he hasn’t been seen in years. Many of the greatest world disasters, like the sinking of the Titanic, were at the hands of this dragon. Drak Midna wants to eliminate all humans on Earth, and he has many secret followers among the dragons. Early in the story, Alex is the only one able to hear the voice of a dragon skull warning that Drak Midna is close to finding the Phylactery, a box that will allow him to destroy humans. Hearing the voice tells readers two big things. Alex has a rare dragon power, and it's a hint that she’s more important than it seems.

What didn’t work as well:

The author teases readers throughout most of the story before Alex finally transforms. It will require much patience from readers, but it’s well worth it.

The final verdict:

Dragon lovers will surely enjoy this book, as it emphasizes Alex’s struggle to become one. The author saves several surprises and revelations for later in the plot that refresh its intensity and suspense. I highly recommend you give the book a shot!