Dusky Hollows: Fierce Winds and Fiery Dragons by Nan Sweet

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're continuing our walk through all things magical, mystical, and mysterious with a Children's Fiction title that's sure to please. It's the first in a series and from what I read, I know I'm curious to read more, but before we put the cart in front of the horse, let's get to know THIS installment. Grab your glasses and gather your courage, you're going to need it! Today's book of choice is...

Fierce Winds and Fiery Dragons

Dusky Hollows, Book 1

by

Nan Sweet

9781515030645

About the book...

Ivy and Carrie love their new classroom, even if their new teacher is a little strange. When Mrs.

Huffity asks for volunteers to care for an egg, Ivy doesn't budge. She's had a few scary dreams and wants nothing to do with it.

But when trouble comes, Ivy defends the egg. In her desire to save the baby that hatches, Ivy is tossed into the middle of an adventure. She had no idea one little dragon could bring so much trouble.

One dragon...one egg...one thrilling adventure...

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I was really surprised by the amount of action and adventure contained within the pages of this little fire-breathing wonder...in a GOOD way! I am an avid reader of Children's Fiction books but sometimes when it comes to those elements, they are toned down for the reading audience. Here, certainly not the case. Now let me be clear, it is in no way inappropriate for the age group targeted, but rather it hits the mark just right. The younger set just graduating to slightly longer books and lengthier series won't feel overwhelmed, while the older set (and beyond!) will be intrigued with the way the story is spun...and of course the DRAGONS! Really, who doesn't like dragons? *looks for a show of hands* That's what I thought.... ^-^

Ivy and Carrie are great friends but even the best experience differences from time to time. Lucky for these girls, even upsets in their home lives can't keep them from seeing eye to eye or being there for each other. Hopefully everyone finds a friend like these two in their lifetime. Ivy's troubles all began with a dream...or two...and then the appearance of the egg at school bringing it all too vividly to life.

Carrie's troubles started at home with her folks (marriage troubles) and carried over to school when she received an ominous warning from Mrs. Huffity complete with a PLINK to the forehead! Can we say abuse of teacher-ly power? Okay, not really because she was honestly HELPING her but at the time it seemed more like an overstepping of boundaries. Anyway...push comes to shove and there's an egg to care for! Magicial, wondrous, and curious indeed! It's not chicken, or duck, or reptile (exactly), and so large too! Is it real? Only time will tell... *dun dun dunnnnn* ...and with a few cracks here and there, the adventure REALLY begins!

I love the level of caring and responsibility given to the girls. When things really got hairy, or rather scaly, they were in it to win it with only the thinnest shred of hope that someone would come to their aid. They had to depend on each other and on themselves but they were better for it in the end. I especially love how Carrie's time with the princess helped her hold her head high at home and address the troubles unfolding. She couldn't solve them but she could speak for herself and be heard. You go girl! Ivy really shook off all the bad vibes and warnings to be a hero herself in the end. I'm not certain I could have done everything she did, nor Carrie for that matter, but I love them more for that very streak of “can do” spirit. Now Mrs. Huffity, I always had a feeling about her. From the initial description of her character, I just knew...what, I can't say, but you'll see when you read it. It's a pretty cool twist.

In conclusion, an exciting start to a promising series. It could easily stand on its own but I feel we've yet to see all there is from both these young ladies as well as their larger than life friends. Recommended read for Children's Fiction fans of all ages.

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About the author...

I don't eat dragons, fairies, or toadstools, although I will admit to swallowing the occasional gnat. In addition, I write. You'll find my books are full of adventures and well, dragons.

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Special thanks to author Nan Sweet for the copy for review. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the series, or the author, be sure to click through the links provided above. This title (as well as the next SEVEN in the series!) is available now, so be on the lookout for it on a bookstore shelf or virtual retailer of your choosing.

Until next time...happy reading!