‘Dragon Haven’ by Robin Hobb

Could dragons become more popular than vampires in the world of novels? If I had anything to do about it, they would!

I never would have thought a series about dragons could have captured my attention so completely, but the "Rain Wilds Chronicles" by Robin Hobb has done just that.

The second book in her series, “Dragon Haven,” continues the story of the erstwhile band of misfits, both human and dragon, as they journey to find the fabled city of Kelsingra, where dragons and humans once lived in harmony.

The plucky little group of dragon keepers are all teens affected by the acidic living conditions of the Rain Wilds forest and have, for the most part, been banished by the elders under the guise of caring for the sickly dragons. Guided by the rough and tumble Captain Leftrin and his liveship Tarman (which has been made from dragon casings and has magical abilities), the keepers, the hunters and the dragons, accompanied by the dragon expert Alyse and her companion Sedric, trod toward what all hope to be a final resting place for the creatures.

This ragtag group faces challenges along the way, but at the same time a miracle seems to be occurring. The dragons begin growing stronger and more resilient, while the keepers begin to take on characteristics of their charges, growing scales and beginning to understand their dragons mentally and physically. When a flash flood threatens to wash the entire troupe away, they all discover inner strengths and abilities. All the while a hidden menace among the group threatens the success of the adventure, and it is a surprise to find out where those threats originate and how close to creating disaster the culprit has been.

Hobb spins a fascinating and enthralling tale with her "Rain Wilds Chronicles,” drawing her readers into her fantasy world with fantastic descriptions and engaging characters. Even the difficult names and places become easier to understand as the novel progresses, and the thoughts of teens with claws and scales as well as talking arrogant dragons seem quite normal after a while.

Can’t wait for the next book!