Gabrielle K. Byrne

I received an advance ebook through NetGalley.

This charming middle grade adventure explores an icy queendom where the seasonal visits of dragons leave humans wary and fearful. Princess Toli isn't even a teenager yet, but she knows the weight of guilt and loss--the year before, her father was killed by dragons, and Toli knows it was all her fault. She's determined to be a fierce hunter to protect her people, especially her younger sister, Petal. But when her mother the Queen is captured by dragons, Toli discovers that dragons are as complex as human beings--though still far more dangerous.

There's so much to love about this book. First of all, the original snow-bound secondary world is great fun, with unique perils (beetles! the cold!) and a fascinating, distinct human culture. Second, DRAGONS. Can't help but love a book with well done dragons, and there's an especially cute one named Ruby who threatens to steal the whole show. Third, Toli. She's a complicated, realistic kid who is dealing with heavy grief and self-hatred. She's trying so hard, and she manages to antagonize the people who really loves best, like her mom, sister, and best friend. I especially enjoyed how her relationship with Petal changed throughout the book. Fourth, the pace. This is a fast read with lots of action, and the emotional growth is perfectly paced throughout.

Apparently, this book stands alone for now, but I hope it sells well and the author gets a full series. This world has incredible potential to be explored!… (mehr)