Tag Archives: Dragons

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (Review By Nikita J. ’28)

November 4, 2024 Kristiyan Kurtev Leave a comment

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Fourth Wing, Rebecca Yarros masterfully blends intense action with rich, immersive imagery that draws readers into a world brimming with magic and danger. The story follows Violet Sorrengail, a determined protagonist who must navigate the treacherous landscape of a military academy where survival is anything but guaranteed. Yarros’s writing style shines through her vivid descriptions, painting scenes that feel both alive and palpable.
Moreover, the intricate relationships and rivalries among the characters add depth to the narrative, making Violet’s journey both compelling and relatable. Yarros deftly balances moments of tension with emotional introspection, as in one of my favorite quotes: “Courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the determination to fight despite it.” This blend of action, character development, and lush imagery ensures that Fourth Wing is not just a tale of dragons and magic, but a powerful exploration of resilience and strength. It’s a captivating read that will resonate with anyone who appreciates strong, character-driven fantasy.
I give this book a four out of five and recommend it to fantasy lovers!

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A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin (review by Akshay B. ’16)

August 21, 2013 mspelmanlibrarian Leave a comment

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Game of Thrones is the first book in George R. R. Martin’s series A Song of Ice and Fire, set in the land of Westeros in times of magic, dragons, and knights. The story has several lead characters, each with their own story, yet everything they do is connected. The major characters fight for their lives, either against enemies who would slay every living creature, or against enemies who compete for the Iron Throne. Martin’s brilliant writing allows the readers to feel the emotions of the characters and care for them. As the queen of Westeros says “When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.” If you watch or plan to watch the mini-series, you’ll want to read A Game of Thrones first. – Akshay B. ‘16

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The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde (review by Kai A. ’17)

July 1, 2013 mspelmanlibrarian Leave a comment

The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Indentured orphan Jennifer Strange is a witty teenager working as secretary for Kazam Mystical Arts Management, which offers its magical services in a world where magic, once powerful, has recently started to wane. Suddenly, she becomes the last dragonslayer and must save the world’s magic. Author Jasper Fforde specializes in building believable worlds and creating realistic but fantastic characters while maintaining a light and comical tone. His unpredictable and intricate plot has some inconsistencies and gaps of logic noticeable to the meticulous reader. In addition to an exciting ride, the plot becomes a vehicle of commentary on the corruption and greed of mankind. Overall, this is a enjoyable read and the first in the Chronicles of Kazam series that promises much more. – Kai A. ‘17

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Fire by Kristine Cashore (review by Anushka D. ’15)

June 4, 2013 mspelmanlibrarian Leave a comment

Fire by Kristin Cashore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When I first picked up Fire, I was expecting a typical story dealing with a girl with magical powers who is suddenly embroiled in an action-packed plot to fight evil with a gorgeous male by her side. However, although the book does feature a girl with magical mind-reading powers, Cashore manages to create a wonderful and unique fantasy world of her own full of princes, dragons, and magic. In the land of Dells, Fire, a monster in the shape of a beautiful woman, is forced to face hatred and jealousy because of her supernatural abilities. When asked to help the king defeat his enemies, Fire must face her fears and prove herself, not as a monster, but as a human. The plot grasps the reader with its innovative and emotional personality, and the characters each find their own space in the reader’s hearts. Although there is a gorgeous male, Cashore sprinkles in just the right amount of romance to keep the readers entertained. This book is a companion book to Cashore’s debut novel, Graceling, and definitely a worthy sequel. Fans of fantasy, magic, and mystery will enjoy both books! – Anushka D. ‘15

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