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The Dragon Diaries Trilogy #1
Flying Blind
Cooke, Deborah
380 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2011
34 people are currently reading
4352 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Cooke
89 books853 followersDeborah Cooke also writes under the names Claire Delacroix and Claire Cross.
Bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Cooke has published over fifty novels and novellas, including historical romances, fantasy romances, fantasy novels with romantic elements, paranormal romances, contemporary romances, urban fantasy romances, time travel romances and paranormal young adult novels. She writes as herself, Deborah Cooke, as Claire Delacroix, and has written as Claire Cross. She is nationally bestselling, #1 Kindle Bestselling, KOBO Bestselling, as well as a USA Today and New York Times’ Bestselling Author. Her Claire Delacroix medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.
Deborah was the writer-in-residence at the Toronto Public Library in 2009, the first time TPL hosted a residency focused on the romance genre, and she was honored to receive the Romance Writers of America PRO Mentor of the Year Award in 2012. She’s a member of Romance Writers of America and of Novelists Inc.
Currently, she’s writing paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke, and medieval romances as Claire Delacroix.
Deborah thinks a lot about publishing and writing, and also knits too much.
Bestselling and award-winning author Deborah Cooke has published over fifty novels and novellas, including historical romances, fantasy romances, fantasy novels with romantic elements, paranormal romances, contemporary romances, urban fantasy romances, time travel romances and paranormal young adult novels. She writes as herself, Deborah Cooke, as Claire Delacroix, and has written as Claire Cross. She is nationally bestselling, #1 Kindle Bestselling, KOBO Bestselling, as well as a USA Today and New York Times’ Bestselling Author. Her Claire Delacroix medieval romance, The Beauty, was her first book to land on the New York Times List of Bestselling Books.
Deborah was the writer-in-residence at the Toronto Public Library in 2009, the first time TPL hosted a residency focused on the romance genre, and she was honored to receive the Romance Writers of America PRO Mentor of the Year Award in 2012. She’s a member of Romance Writers of America and of Novelists Inc.
Currently, she’s writing paranormal romances as Deborah Cooke, and medieval romances as Claire Delacroix.
Deborah thinks a lot about publishing and writing, and also knits too much.
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October 26, 2011
Aerial dragon battles. A girl with a cool mystical powers. Cute boys on motorbikes. What more could you ask for in a fun and fluffy paranormal book?
Flying Blind took me completely by surprise. The story follows Zoë Sorensson, the only female dragon shapeshifter in existence, who has important duties to assume when she comes to maturity. The problem is, her powers haven't bloomed properly and the few times they begin to appear--in the form of a mesmerizing flame in the pupils of her eyes and a single curved talon--she can't control them. As a result, she's shipped off to dragon "boot camp" where she's huddled with a group of dragon boys she's known all her life, including Nick, the attractive guy whom she may be destined to be with.
The dragon lore is exceptionally well thought-out, with specific behaviors and mythology. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the different dragons, from a green one with silver-tipped scales to a beautiful garnet and gold one to a regal pewter and purple one with silver accents. The dragon battles are also very easy to picture, with muscular physical tussling, claw-slashing, orange-flamed fire-breathing, and tail-whomping--and with none of the typical fast-healing, "easy fix" powers to lessen the stakes.
Zoë is a bright, funny heroine who narrates in a breezy tone that's immensely appealing. She's attempting to gain control of her body while trying to figure out why such a dark cloud seems to hang over her normally good-natured friends, and there's a lot that's thrown at her as she's coming into her role as a member of the Pyr. She makes a lot of mistakes, but she owns up to them and is never afraid to take action when it matters most. I like that every person in the huge cast of secondary characters has a distinct voice and identity, and that things don't always go the way that seasoned YA readers might expect with mysterious strangers or popular girls. The story is fairly complex for a short book, but it's very light-hearted in tone, which is a refreshing change from all those supernatural YA books that aren't well-thought out or that take themselves too seriously. One of the many humorous touches? Zoë, kickass girl dragon, is a vegetarian.
This book is apparently a spinoff of the author's adult PNR series, but it doesn't feel like something that's hastily cobbled together or that is at all lacking in explanation. The author does a terrific job of gradually revealing the rules and history of dragon behavior, as well as in giving enough time (but not too much time) to characters from the other series in a way that doesn't feel tiresome or forced. It's also great to see a book that shows teens with strong, loving relationships with the adults in their lives--but the crises are deftly handled and solved by the younger dragons themselves. I will say there's a lot of information to process, some of the "dark cloud" behaviors drag on for a little too long, and Zoë does occasionally get a little moony over her crush. But all the romance issues are resolved by the end of the book, and there is plenty of time spent on the family and friend relationships, mythology, plot, and personal development to balance the relationship stuff out.
I'd highly recommend Flying Blind to any fan of non-angsty paranormal/fantasy YA, especially to fans of series such as Hex Hall or The Darkest Powers. Zoë does a lot growing up in this zippy, action-packed story--and after having such a fun whirlwind of an adventure in her company, I can't to see where the next story takes her!
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden.
P.S. The cover and title are very misleading, in my opinion. I think a story that has such a humorous feel to it deserves a cover design that makes it stand out a little more from all the other typical paranormal YA books out there. I really can't picture Zoë with such a serious look on her face at all! Also, newsflash: gorgeous battling dragons are a huge selling point. At least for me, anyway.
Flying Blind took me completely by surprise. The story follows Zoë Sorensson, the only female dragon shapeshifter in existence, who has important duties to assume when she comes to maturity. The problem is, her powers haven't bloomed properly and the few times they begin to appear--in the form of a mesmerizing flame in the pupils of her eyes and a single curved talon--she can't control them. As a result, she's shipped off to dragon "boot camp" where she's huddled with a group of dragon boys she's known all her life, including Nick, the attractive guy whom she may be destined to be with.
The dragon lore is exceptionally well thought-out, with specific behaviors and mythology. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions of the different dragons, from a green one with silver-tipped scales to a beautiful garnet and gold one to a regal pewter and purple one with silver accents. The dragon battles are also very easy to picture, with muscular physical tussling, claw-slashing, orange-flamed fire-breathing, and tail-whomping--and with none of the typical fast-healing, "easy fix" powers to lessen the stakes.
Zoë is a bright, funny heroine who narrates in a breezy tone that's immensely appealing. She's attempting to gain control of her body while trying to figure out why such a dark cloud seems to hang over her normally good-natured friends, and there's a lot that's thrown at her as she's coming into her role as a member of the Pyr. She makes a lot of mistakes, but she owns up to them and is never afraid to take action when it matters most. I like that every person in the huge cast of secondary characters has a distinct voice and identity, and that things don't always go the way that seasoned YA readers might expect with mysterious strangers or popular girls. The story is fairly complex for a short book, but it's very light-hearted in tone, which is a refreshing change from all those supernatural YA books that aren't well-thought out or that take themselves too seriously. One of the many humorous touches? Zoë, kickass girl dragon, is a vegetarian.
This book is apparently a spinoff of the author's adult PNR series, but it doesn't feel like something that's hastily cobbled together or that is at all lacking in explanation. The author does a terrific job of gradually revealing the rules and history of dragon behavior, as well as in giving enough time (but not too much time) to characters from the other series in a way that doesn't feel tiresome or forced. It's also great to see a book that shows teens with strong, loving relationships with the adults in their lives--but the crises are deftly handled and solved by the younger dragons themselves. I will say there's a lot of information to process, some of the "dark cloud" behaviors drag on for a little too long, and Zoë does occasionally get a little moony over her crush. But all the romance issues are resolved by the end of the book, and there is plenty of time spent on the family and friend relationships, mythology, plot, and personal development to balance the relationship stuff out.
I'd highly recommend Flying Blind to any fan of non-angsty paranormal/fantasy YA, especially to fans of series such as Hex Hall or The Darkest Powers. Zoë does a lot growing up in this zippy, action-packed story--and after having such a fun whirlwind of an adventure in her company, I can't to see where the next story takes her!
This review also appears in The Midnight Garden.
P.S. The cover and title are very misleading, in my opinion. I think a story that has such a humorous feel to it deserves a cover design that makes it stand out a little more from all the other typical paranormal YA books out there. I really can't picture Zoë with such a serious look on her face at all! Also, newsflash: gorgeous battling dragons are a huge selling point. At least for me, anyway.
May 10, 2012
beginning:
there was a guy in my bedroom.
it was six in the morning and i didn’t know him.
i’m not much of a morning person, but that woke me up fast.
i sat up and stared, my back pressed against the wall, sure my eyes had to be deceiving me. no matter how much i blinked, though, he was still there.
he seemed to think my reaction was funny.
he had dark hair and dark eyes, and he wasn’t wearing a shirt, just jeans—and he had one heck of a six-pack. his arms were folded across his chest and a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
OH, COME ON! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
there was a guy in my bedroom.
it was six in the morning and i didn’t know him.
i’m not much of a morning person, but that woke me up fast.
i sat up and stared, my back pressed against the wall, sure my eyes had to be deceiving me. no matter how much i blinked, though, he was still there.
he seemed to think my reaction was funny.
he had dark hair and dark eyes, and he wasn’t wearing a shirt, just jeans—and he had one heck of a six-pack. his arms were folded across his chest and a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
OH, COME ON! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
July 11, 2011
(Contains minor spoilers - although they would hardly come as a surprise to anyone who begins reading it -, and it's assumed that you've read the book description.)
I love dragons. I really do. Actually, the best thing about this book was that it was about dragons. Unfortunately, this was also the only good thing about it, and it was the only thing that made me keep reading, hoping it would get better. It didn't. If we subtract dragons, the book is a junk. A huge disappointment.
The world is apparently shared with the Dragonfire series of the author, which I haven't read, because I'm not a fan of romantic books (even if it is paranormal romance). This turned out to be a mistake, as the author didn't bother to explain too much in this book about her world, even though this is the first book of The Dragon Diaries series. It's left to the reader to figure out what he can. For instance, I still don't really know what a 'firestorm' is (in the context of this world), other than that it has something to do with Pyr mating.
What I see from the world isn't very exciting either. Apparently, there are the Pyr, the dragon shapeshifters, who are the guardians of the Earth. They can shift between human and dragon forms, although it seems that they don't have to bother with their clothes in the process. Quite convenient... and unrealistic.
As dragons, they can do what one would expect: they have claws, can fly and can breath fire. They don't age, and are able to communicate over long distances, in a language that humans can't hear or understand.
There are also special Pyr, who have all sorts of superpowers. One of them is the Wyvern, the only female of the race, who can, among other things, see the past, present and future and can teleport at will. By the way, this is supposed to be Zoë, the heroine of the book.
There are also other kinds of shapeshifters, and there's also magic. The archenemies of the Pyr are the Mages, who are human spellcasters, and they are evil and want to rule the world. I'm afraid there's really nothing exciting.
We follow the story from the point of view of Zoë. Basically the first half of the book is plain trash, nothing exciting happens. The heroine is trying to learn into her powers, and mostly fails. Then, around halfway through the book, a hot guy comes, he and Zoë immediately fall in love with each other (sort of), although the guy is, at least, a decade older than the girl (who is just entering adolescence), but hey. The guy tells Zoë to believe in herself, she says "OK" and all her powers start to work. Serious, what the hell?!
The second half of the story brings a lot of action, which is just lame. The fighting dragons are unimpressive, and so is the magic. One good thing about the story was the mystery from the very beginning, which is sadly all revealed in the beginning of the second half. Zoë suddenly becomes all-powerful, which basically ruins any excitement a reader would feel.
Romance also couldn't be left out from the book, no, no, that would be terrible. Zoë's relationship with that said-to-be-hot, spellcaster (good-mage) guy (I forgot his name) is ridiculous, at best. However, Isabella and Nick's affection was a lot better pictured, although for only a single scene. One of the very few things that prevented this book from getting 1 star only.
There are interesting inconsistencies in the plot. At some point, it turns out that the Mages got extremely powerful while the Pyr weren't watching (what? what sort of guardians are they? seriously, what the duck?). Then at the end of the book, they are easily defeated by the Pyr. Huh?
As for the characters, this is obviously meant to be a coming-of-age type of book, but it fails miserably to show up any character development whatsoever.
The characters we meet are all black-and-white: there are the good guys (mainly the Pyr) who are all just dumb and there are the bad guys (mainly the Mages), who are all, well, evil.
Similarly, they are all terribly unrealistic, and it's very hard to relate with them.
I'm afraid that's all there is to it. In summary: I mostly wish I haven't read it. I don't recommend it to anyone, except perhaps if you really really love dragons, and there's absolutely nothing else to read. But it's best not to have any expectations, because almost certainly you'll be disappointed.
Apparently the second book of the series, titled Winging It will be published this December, but I don't think I'll ever read it. In fact, this book has pretty much ruined my mood for trying books about dragons anytime soon.
On the bright side, I'm quite sure that I'll enjoy the next book I read a lot more, whatever that may be.
I love dragons. I really do. Actually, the best thing about this book was that it was about dragons. Unfortunately, this was also the only good thing about it, and it was the only thing that made me keep reading, hoping it would get better. It didn't. If we subtract dragons, the book is a junk. A huge disappointment.
The world is apparently shared with the Dragonfire series of the author, which I haven't read, because I'm not a fan of romantic books (even if it is paranormal romance). This turned out to be a mistake, as the author didn't bother to explain too much in this book about her world, even though this is the first book of The Dragon Diaries series. It's left to the reader to figure out what he can. For instance, I still don't really know what a 'firestorm' is (in the context of this world), other than that it has something to do with Pyr mating.
What I see from the world isn't very exciting either. Apparently, there are the Pyr, the dragon shapeshifters, who are the guardians of the Earth. They can shift between human and dragon forms, although it seems that they don't have to bother with their clothes in the process. Quite convenient... and unrealistic.
As dragons, they can do what one would expect: they have claws, can fly and can breath fire. They don't age, and are able to communicate over long distances, in a language that humans can't hear or understand.
There are also special Pyr, who have all sorts of superpowers. One of them is the Wyvern, the only female of the race, who can, among other things, see the past, present and future and can teleport at will. By the way, this is supposed to be Zoë, the heroine of the book.
There are also other kinds of shapeshifters, and there's also magic. The archenemies of the Pyr are the Mages, who are human spellcasters, and they are evil and want to rule the world. I'm afraid there's really nothing exciting.
We follow the story from the point of view of Zoë. Basically the first half of the book is plain trash, nothing exciting happens. The heroine is trying to learn into her powers, and mostly fails. Then, around halfway through the book, a hot guy comes, he and Zoë immediately fall in love with each other (sort of), although the guy is, at least, a decade older than the girl (who is just entering adolescence), but hey. The guy tells Zoë to believe in herself, she says "OK" and all her powers start to work. Serious, what the hell?!
The second half of the story brings a lot of action, which is just lame. The fighting dragons are unimpressive, and so is the magic. One good thing about the story was the mystery from the very beginning, which is sadly all revealed in the beginning of the second half. Zoë suddenly becomes all-powerful, which basically ruins any excitement a reader would feel.
Romance also couldn't be left out from the book, no, no, that would be terrible. Zoë's relationship with that said-to-be-hot, spellcaster (good-mage) guy (I forgot his name) is ridiculous, at best. However, Isabella and Nick's affection was a lot better pictured, although for only a single scene. One of the very few things that prevented this book from getting 1 star only.
There are interesting inconsistencies in the plot. At some point, it turns out that the Mages got extremely powerful while the Pyr weren't watching (what? what sort of guardians are they? seriously, what the duck?). Then at the end of the book, they are easily defeated by the Pyr. Huh?
As for the characters, this is obviously meant to be a coming-of-age type of book, but it fails miserably to show up any character development whatsoever.
The characters we meet are all black-and-white: there are the good guys (mainly the Pyr) who are all just dumb and there are the bad guys (mainly the Mages), who are all, well, evil.
Similarly, they are all terribly unrealistic, and it's very hard to relate with them.
I'm afraid that's all there is to it. In summary: I mostly wish I haven't read it. I don't recommend it to anyone, except perhaps if you really really love dragons, and there's absolutely nothing else to read. But it's best not to have any expectations, because almost certainly you'll be disappointed.
Apparently the second book of the series, titled Winging It will be published this December, but I don't think I'll ever read it. In fact, this book has pretty much ruined my mood for trying books about dragons anytime soon.
On the bright side, I'm quite sure that I'll enjoy the next book I read a lot more, whatever that may be.
June 21, 2011
Flying Blind is the first in Deborah Cooke’s DRAGON DIARIES series, the young adult spinoff of her DRAGONFIRE paranormal romance novels. The DRAGON DIARIES are set in the near future, and the heroine and her peers are the children of the protagonists of the DRAGONFIRE books.
Zoë Sorensson has always been told she has a great destiny: she is the Wyvern, which means she’s the only female Pyr (dragon shapeshifter) of her generation, and is supposed to have certain powers beneficial to her fellow Pyr. Trouble is, those powers haven’t manifested yet — at least not until she jumps to the defense of a bullied friend and undergoes an incomplete shift in the process. Partially as a punishment for shifting in front of humans, and partially to help her develop her powers, Zoë’s dad sends her to Pyr boot camp with a group of other young Pyr.
Deborah Cooke does a lot of things right in Flying Blind, subverting some tropes that have become clichés. The concept of fated love appears, for example, but not at all in the way you might expect. Cooke also strikes a good balance between the teen and adult characters, letting the former save the day without painting the latter as incompetent.
Unfortunately, the boot camp section seems to drag and can be annoying. Zoë and the other young Pyr spend most of this time bickering, having drama, and acting like jerks. After a while, I didn’t like any of them much, including Zoë.
The story picks up momentum again when the teens discover a plot against their fathers and against the Pyr race as a whole. There are plenty of twists and revelations, and a suspenseful battle in which everyone’s skills are tested.
The ending evoked irritation again, though. One twist makes it look like future books will focus (at least in part) on whether Zoë chooses to lose her virginity and the magical consequences of that choice. I’m weary of plots that tie sexuality to the threat of metaphysical disaster. In adult urban fantasy the heroine often has to have sex to avert calamity, and in YA she usually has to not have sex, but either way, I wish more heroines got to make these choices based on their own values and desires instead. Also, there’s a character who leaves the scene abruptly after the battle, and it seems more like an authorial decision to create tension for the next book rather than what this character would actually do at that moment.
Flying Blind has some good points but also some annoying ones. Young adult readers tired of destined true loves and moronic parents may find it right up their alley, though.
Zoë Sorensson has always been told she has a great destiny: she is the Wyvern, which means she’s the only female Pyr (dragon shapeshifter) of her generation, and is supposed to have certain powers beneficial to her fellow Pyr. Trouble is, those powers haven’t manifested yet — at least not until she jumps to the defense of a bullied friend and undergoes an incomplete shift in the process. Partially as a punishment for shifting in front of humans, and partially to help her develop her powers, Zoë’s dad sends her to Pyr boot camp with a group of other young Pyr.
Deborah Cooke does a lot of things right in Flying Blind, subverting some tropes that have become clichés. The concept of fated love appears, for example, but not at all in the way you might expect. Cooke also strikes a good balance between the teen and adult characters, letting the former save the day without painting the latter as incompetent.
Unfortunately, the boot camp section seems to drag and can be annoying. Zoë and the other young Pyr spend most of this time bickering, having drama, and acting like jerks. After a while, I didn’t like any of them much, including Zoë.
The story picks up momentum again when the teens discover a plot against their fathers and against the Pyr race as a whole. There are plenty of twists and revelations, and a suspenseful battle in which everyone’s skills are tested.
The ending evoked irritation again, though. One twist makes it look like future books will focus (at least in part) on whether Zoë chooses to lose her virginity and the magical consequences of that choice. I’m weary of plots that tie sexuality to the threat of metaphysical disaster. In adult urban fantasy the heroine often has to have sex to avert calamity, and in YA she usually has to not have sex, but either way, I wish more heroines got to make these choices based on their own values and desires instead. Also, there’s a character who leaves the scene abruptly after the battle, and it seems more like an authorial decision to create tension for the next book rather than what this character would actually do at that moment.
Flying Blind has some good points but also some annoying ones. Young adult readers tired of destined true loves and moronic parents may find it right up their alley, though.
June 2, 2011
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
Dragon mythology is one of the few in paranormal fiction that is still relatively fresh, and Cooke runs wild with her dragon world. If you’ve read her Dragonfire paranormal romance series, you’re already familiar with these elemental based dragons and will even recognize many of the parents in FLYING BLIND.
Zoe is the protagonist in FLYING BLIND, a fifteen year old impatient to grow up and develop her Pyr abilities (along with a nice set of boobs). She’s likeable from page one, if a bit on the young side of fifteen for a YA title. She’s displays a brave, loyal streak throughout the book that helps to temper her occasional recklessness. She believably worries about boys and is no stranger to jealousy (but she isn’t ever petty about it). It all added up to a very realistic teenage girl.
I have to mention one scene that really threw me very early on when Zoe and her friend get into a fight with a few nasty girls from school while everyone is showering after gym class. I couldn’t get past the fact that this physical fight was supposedly taking place while everyone was naked and yet no mention was made about that. It all seemed very unrealistic to me.
Overall, the writing is swift and fun, just like I’d imagine flying on the back of a dragon. The characters do kiss the line between YA and Middle Grade, but the innovative mythology and mature storyline should please readers of any age. If you’re looking for a break from vampires and werewolves or you’re a fan of Cooke’s adult Dragonfire series, you won’t be disappointed with FLYING BLIND. The next book in the Dragon Diaries Trilogy is called WINGING IT and will be published on December 6th 2011.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
Dragon mythology is one of the few in paranormal fiction that is still relatively fresh, and Cooke runs wild with her dragon world. If you’ve read her Dragonfire paranormal romance series, you’re already familiar with these elemental based dragons and will even recognize many of the parents in FLYING BLIND.
Zoe is the protagonist in FLYING BLIND, a fifteen year old impatient to grow up and develop her Pyr abilities (along with a nice set of boobs). She’s likeable from page one, if a bit on the young side of fifteen for a YA title. She’s displays a brave, loyal streak throughout the book that helps to temper her occasional recklessness. She believably worries about boys and is no stranger to jealousy (but she isn’t ever petty about it). It all added up to a very realistic teenage girl.
I have to mention one scene that really threw me very early on when Zoe and her friend get into a fight with a few nasty girls from school while everyone is showering after gym class. I couldn’t get past the fact that this physical fight was supposedly taking place while everyone was naked and yet no mention was made about that. It all seemed very unrealistic to me.
Overall, the writing is swift and fun, just like I’d imagine flying on the back of a dragon. The characters do kiss the line between YA and Middle Grade, but the innovative mythology and mature storyline should please readers of any age. If you’re looking for a break from vampires and werewolves or you’re a fan of Cooke’s adult Dragonfire series, you won’t be disappointed with FLYING BLIND. The next book in the Dragon Diaries Trilogy is called WINGING IT and will be published on December 6th 2011.
Sexual Content:
Kissing
September 7, 2012
I sure have read a lot of dragon books this year.
This book was pretty much what I expected. A light, fluffy book without much on depth but I enjoyed it for what it was. Zoe learning to grow into her powers and then using them was actually kinda cool. I liked the descriptions of the dragons and their powers. It’s fun to see that while she is the special dragon she grows into it.
Zoe was annoying in the beginning because all she did was obsess over that guy. What’s his name? Luke? I mean, all she would do is think about him, imagine how it was to make out with him, get all angry angst-y when he doesn’t show any interest in her, and become all rage-jealous when he likes the other girl. At least the other girl isn’t turned into some evil, mean witch, and actually has some pretty useful powers of her own.
I liked that as the story approached the climax she focused not on what she couldn’t have but on others and what she could do for them. The final showdown was all sorts of fun and the romance was decent enough, I suppose.
One of those cotton candy reads.
This book was pretty much what I expected. A light, fluffy book without much on depth but I enjoyed it for what it was. Zoe learning to grow into her powers and then using them was actually kinda cool. I liked the descriptions of the dragons and their powers. It’s fun to see that while she is the special dragon she grows into it.
Zoe was annoying in the beginning because all she did was obsess over that guy. What’s his name? Luke? I mean, all she would do is think about him, imagine how it was to make out with him, get all angry angst-y when he doesn’t show any interest in her, and become all rage-jealous when he likes the other girl. At least the other girl isn’t turned into some evil, mean witch, and actually has some pretty useful powers of her own.
I liked that as the story approached the climax she focused not on what she couldn’t have but on others and what she could do for them. The final showdown was all sorts of fun and the romance was decent enough, I suppose.
One of those cotton candy reads.
Read
June 1, 2017I can't believe this book was written in 2011. It's like this author studied how to write YA by reading and watching stuff from teh 80s and 90s.
I'm just SO sick of the mean girl, girl jealousy, succeed for a boy, drink to be cool mentality. Ffs! Hey look at me: I'm underage and I'm drinking to show off for a boy and I hate that other girl because she's so much prettier than me and the only boy I'll ever love is so cool, definitely overage and also a bad boy.
Blech.
This book left a bad taste in my mouth.
I'm just SO sick of the mean girl, girl jealousy, succeed for a boy, drink to be cool mentality. Ffs! Hey look at me: I'm underage and I'm drinking to show off for a boy and I hate that other girl because she's so much prettier than me and the only boy I'll ever love is so cool, definitely overage and also a bad boy.
Blech.
This book left a bad taste in my mouth.
August 12, 2021
Kunde vara lite små seg och barnslig ibland, osäker om jag kommer fortsätta med den här serien men jag ser fram emot att läsa Deborah Cooke's serie som är skriven för vuxna.
June 12, 2011
3.5 Stars
Zoë Sorensson has more to worry about than the typical teenage girl. She is the Pyr's Wyvern, a lone female dragon shifter with special powers. Problem is Zoë has yet to come into her powers and the Pyr need their Wyvern. Unfortunately her abilities start to arise while trying to protect a friend against a bully and the most important rule is never to expose her kind to humans. Now suspended from school, Zoë is on her way to shifter boot camp with her fellow Pyr friends. Despite this being her first time, Zoë knows something isn't right. Mages are at work weaving their dark magic on the group of young shifters, causing distrust and anger among friends. Zoë must gain confidence in herself in order to become the Wyvern her people need and stop the Mages' plans of exterminating all Pyr before it's too late.
In Flying Blind, we see the world of Deborah Cooke's Dragonfire series through the eyes of a teen age girl who would love to wake up one morning and finally have use for a bra. Yes, Zoë wishes for the usual things a 15 year old girl would love to have. Breasts, the cute older guy to ask her out, not to have to go to gym class, hoping to finally shift into a dragon. Well that last one is unique to Zoë. Along with wanting to fly, breath fire and have the powers to help her kind. Zoë has a lot of pressure on her to become the Wyvern. She complains about her lack of powers but I didn't feel it was necessarily for selfish reasons. She loves what she is and wants to be able to help her Pyr family as only a Wyvern can.
If you think reading about teenagers at book camp is boring, think again. Fighting, dark magic, and jealousy are running ramped through the younger Pyr and Zoë's powers is what's need to stop her kind's extinction. Zoë's loyalty to her shifter family and bravery to face foes who have no issue with killing teenagers, makes her a character that a reader of any age can admire. By her side are the sons of the older Pyr who have their own stories in Deborah's Dragonfire series. The supporting character I most enjoyed was Jared. He's not a Pyr but an untrained mage who refuses to join sides with those who are after the Pyr. He's more than just the rebel he wants everyone to know he is and I'm interested to see how his character develops as the series progresses. There was one problem I had with him regarding his relationship with Zoë. He's older than her and when Zoë was fighting against the mages I didn't feel the age difference but when she would blush at the slightest attention he gave her or talk about listening to his music (he's in a band and rides a motorcycle) over and over again like a girl with a silly crush, the relationship didn't feel right. It didn't feel inappropriate, just rather unexpected. This is only the third YA book I've ever read so this may not be unusual but rather something I'm not use to yet.
Flying Blind started off good and got better as the story went along. At first it almost felt too young for me with all the high school drama but as the story continued and the tone of the book took on a darker feel, I found myself not wanting to put the book down. Zoë actually surprised me with how strong of a lead she was. For someone who is so young, there is a lot to her character and most of it I absolutely loved. This is a YA book but with just the right amount of action, suspense, humor and just a touch of of romance, I think fans of both YA and adult fantasy books will enjoy dragon tale.
-Stephanie
Zoë Sorensson has more to worry about than the typical teenage girl. She is the Pyr's Wyvern, a lone female dragon shifter with special powers. Problem is Zoë has yet to come into her powers and the Pyr need their Wyvern. Unfortunately her abilities start to arise while trying to protect a friend against a bully and the most important rule is never to expose her kind to humans. Now suspended from school, Zoë is on her way to shifter boot camp with her fellow Pyr friends. Despite this being her first time, Zoë knows something isn't right. Mages are at work weaving their dark magic on the group of young shifters, causing distrust and anger among friends. Zoë must gain confidence in herself in order to become the Wyvern her people need and stop the Mages' plans of exterminating all Pyr before it's too late.
In Flying Blind, we see the world of Deborah Cooke's Dragonfire series through the eyes of a teen age girl who would love to wake up one morning and finally have use for a bra. Yes, Zoë wishes for the usual things a 15 year old girl would love to have. Breasts, the cute older guy to ask her out, not to have to go to gym class, hoping to finally shift into a dragon. Well that last one is unique to Zoë. Along with wanting to fly, breath fire and have the powers to help her kind. Zoë has a lot of pressure on her to become the Wyvern. She complains about her lack of powers but I didn't feel it was necessarily for selfish reasons. She loves what she is and wants to be able to help her Pyr family as only a Wyvern can.
If you think reading about teenagers at book camp is boring, think again. Fighting, dark magic, and jealousy are running ramped through the younger Pyr and Zoë's powers is what's need to stop her kind's extinction. Zoë's loyalty to her shifter family and bravery to face foes who have no issue with killing teenagers, makes her a character that a reader of any age can admire. By her side are the sons of the older Pyr who have their own stories in Deborah's Dragonfire series. The supporting character I most enjoyed was Jared. He's not a Pyr but an untrained mage who refuses to join sides with those who are after the Pyr. He's more than just the rebel he wants everyone to know he is and I'm interested to see how his character develops as the series progresses. There was one problem I had with him regarding his relationship with Zoë. He's older than her and when Zoë was fighting against the mages I didn't feel the age difference but when she would blush at the slightest attention he gave her or talk about listening to his music (he's in a band and rides a motorcycle) over and over again like a girl with a silly crush, the relationship didn't feel right. It didn't feel inappropriate, just rather unexpected. This is only the third YA book I've ever read so this may not be unusual but rather something I'm not use to yet.
Flying Blind started off good and got better as the story went along. At first it almost felt too young for me with all the high school drama but as the story continued and the tone of the book took on a darker feel, I found myself not wanting to put the book down. Zoë actually surprised me with how strong of a lead she was. For someone who is so young, there is a lot to her character and most of it I absolutely loved. This is a YA book but with just the right amount of action, suspense, humor and just a touch of of romance, I think fans of both YA and adult fantasy books will enjoy dragon tale.
-Stephanie
August 16, 2015
As it turns out, this first book in a spin-off series of the Dragonfire Novels exceeded my expectations and went beyond.
Zoe knows that she’s a failure when it comes to conjuring the makeshift powers of the Almighty Wyvern. Being the only female dragon shape shifter is suffocating, especially when she does not meet expectations. Finally, in a scene at her high school, Zoe discovers this new rage that triggers parts of her Wyvern powers. Along with this new discovery comes a field trip to spend a week with her Pyr friends at boot camp. Despite the obligatory feelings that come when hearing the words “boot camp”, Zoe is thrilled to go because she will finally have a chance to prove herself to her destined mate, Nick.
However, when it’s time to leave for this adventurous competition, an obstacle enters Zoe’s path in the form of all the bad-boy traits any rock-star fan girl can imagine. Jared has the attitude and persona of all things masculine.
When they all arrive at the boot camp site and find no sign of Donovan, Nick’s father, they know something must be amiss but figure it is just another test in the line of competition. Soon, they find out how deeply wrong they assumed.
While I haven’t read many fantasy books that involve fire-breathing dragons, I imagine that Cooke really nailed it on the head with Flying Blind. She creates the heroine to be this lost skinny girl who doesn’t know white from black when it comes to differing what it is a Wyvern’s responsibilities. Hence the titles meaning, Zoe is flying blind in a world where the men around her find it effortless to conjure and control their dragons. This is the part where Jared is introduced, and I have to say that the chemistry between him and Zoe was practically steaming off the pages. There is a lot of male eye candy in this book, and that had to be one of its lovely attributes. The writing style really flavored each character’s individual personality in a sense that it complimented their contribution to the novel.
With a more than fascinating background, the Pyr initially had a long history before it’s introduced to us in Flying Blind. In its self, that is what makes up the stepping stones that Zoe must follow in order to fulfill her great destiny. A lot of what’s holding her back is what makes up a big message in her story, be bold and believe in yourself, and you shall succeed. The plot truly ascends to the climax where secrets are unfurled and the truth and deception of others comes to light. Alongside the creation an admirable heroine, Cooke is able to surmise that confidence needed in the most trifling of battles to save the fellow Pyr. With such vivid and beautifully written settings, the mental movie that plays in one’s head as they read Flying Blind is clear and conspicuous.
Unlike Cooke’s Dragonfire Novels, I hope that she keeps The Dragon Diaries centered around Zoe’s struggles and triumphs in the Pyr world. (If only to see more of the infamous Jared.)
Grade: B+
Zoe knows that she’s a failure when it comes to conjuring the makeshift powers of the Almighty Wyvern. Being the only female dragon shape shifter is suffocating, especially when she does not meet expectations. Finally, in a scene at her high school, Zoe discovers this new rage that triggers parts of her Wyvern powers. Along with this new discovery comes a field trip to spend a week with her Pyr friends at boot camp. Despite the obligatory feelings that come when hearing the words “boot camp”, Zoe is thrilled to go because she will finally have a chance to prove herself to her destined mate, Nick.
However, when it’s time to leave for this adventurous competition, an obstacle enters Zoe’s path in the form of all the bad-boy traits any rock-star fan girl can imagine. Jared has the attitude and persona of all things masculine.
When they all arrive at the boot camp site and find no sign of Donovan, Nick’s father, they know something must be amiss but figure it is just another test in the line of competition. Soon, they find out how deeply wrong they assumed.
While I haven’t read many fantasy books that involve fire-breathing dragons, I imagine that Cooke really nailed it on the head with Flying Blind. She creates the heroine to be this lost skinny girl who doesn’t know white from black when it comes to differing what it is a Wyvern’s responsibilities. Hence the titles meaning, Zoe is flying blind in a world where the men around her find it effortless to conjure and control their dragons. This is the part where Jared is introduced, and I have to say that the chemistry between him and Zoe was practically steaming off the pages. There is a lot of male eye candy in this book, and that had to be one of its lovely attributes. The writing style really flavored each character’s individual personality in a sense that it complimented their contribution to the novel.
With a more than fascinating background, the Pyr initially had a long history before it’s introduced to us in Flying Blind. In its self, that is what makes up the stepping stones that Zoe must follow in order to fulfill her great destiny. A lot of what’s holding her back is what makes up a big message in her story, be bold and believe in yourself, and you shall succeed. The plot truly ascends to the climax where secrets are unfurled and the truth and deception of others comes to light. Alongside the creation an admirable heroine, Cooke is able to surmise that confidence needed in the most trifling of battles to save the fellow Pyr. With such vivid and beautifully written settings, the mental movie that plays in one’s head as they read Flying Blind is clear and conspicuous.
Unlike Cooke’s Dragonfire Novels, I hope that she keeps The Dragon Diaries centered around Zoe’s struggles and triumphs in the Pyr world. (If only to see more of the infamous Jared.)
Grade: B+
May 8, 2011
FLYING BLIND's beginning was the embodiment of what I needed in a YA right now: it was refreshingly unique, combats bullying in a satisfying, physical way, and leaves a sweet taste my mouth when I think about teenage girls pining for their "soul mates." Alas, the entire book does not continue on such a strong note--especially the last 15% of the novel.
Zoë is a reject in high school who's forced to deal with the popular girls on a daily basis. Thing is, when said girls take their bullying too far, torturing Zoë's best friend, things take a turn for the worst. You see, our young heroine is a dragon--a wyvern, to be exact--and she's got a short temper. Go figure the dragon in her would reveal itself at the most inopportune time.
The remainder of the book explores dragon life. I thought that all of this information was presented in a clean and crisp way. I wasn't bogged down with overwhelming amounts of information all at once, and because this is a spinoff series, I wasn't left in the dark (too much), regretting not reading the other series first.
Zoë is likable enough in the beginning, but as the story progresses, her immaturity quickly got on my nerves. For a 15 year old, she behaved pretty abhorrently at times, which lessened her in my eyes.
By the time the "first" bad guy is vanquished, I was ready to close the book and call it a night (which I did). I felt that the story began to lose its momentum the closer Zoë got towards her real transformation. During the first showdown, I felt some moments were corny, and I actually cringed at how many times Zoë lifted her claws up in the air, ready to fight. I wish that, instead of overusing this, Cooke thought of a few more creative ways for the fighting newbie to prepare herself for battle.
After the crew learned the fate of the other dragons (or Pyr), I could confidently say that I was done with the story. I was emotionally exhausted after all the drama, and was not ready to pick myself up and continue on. When I finally did, about four days later, a lot of the initial magic and excitement for this story dissipated.
I think I'm being a bit generous by giving FLYING BLIND a 4 star rating. Initially, I wanted to lower it to 3.5, but I think that my physical and mental exhaustion played a role in my lack of interest with the ending of the book. I also wanted this higher rating to reflect how I was unable to put the book down; I began it in one evening, and was up until 2AM (had to get up for classes at 6:30AM). Would I recommend this to others? If you're not sick of dragons, and if you can deal with an immature heroine, I'd say go for it!
Zoë is a reject in high school who's forced to deal with the popular girls on a daily basis. Thing is, when said girls take their bullying too far, torturing Zoë's best friend, things take a turn for the worst. You see, our young heroine is a dragon--a wyvern, to be exact--and she's got a short temper. Go figure the dragon in her would reveal itself at the most inopportune time.
The remainder of the book explores dragon life. I thought that all of this information was presented in a clean and crisp way. I wasn't bogged down with overwhelming amounts of information all at once, and because this is a spinoff series, I wasn't left in the dark (too much), regretting not reading the other series first.
Zoë is likable enough in the beginning, but as the story progresses, her immaturity quickly got on my nerves. For a 15 year old, she behaved pretty abhorrently at times, which lessened her in my eyes.
By the time the "first" bad guy is vanquished, I was ready to close the book and call it a night (which I did). I felt that the story began to lose its momentum the closer Zoë got towards her real transformation. During the first showdown, I felt some moments were corny, and I actually cringed at how many times Zoë lifted her claws up in the air, ready to fight. I wish that, instead of overusing this, Cooke thought of a few more creative ways for the fighting newbie to prepare herself for battle.
After the crew learned the fate of the other dragons (or Pyr), I could confidently say that I was done with the story. I was emotionally exhausted after all the drama, and was not ready to pick myself up and continue on. When I finally did, about four days later, a lot of the initial magic and excitement for this story dissipated.
I think I'm being a bit generous by giving FLYING BLIND a 4 star rating. Initially, I wanted to lower it to 3.5, but I think that my physical and mental exhaustion played a role in my lack of interest with the ending of the book. I also wanted this higher rating to reflect how I was unable to put the book down; I began it in one evening, and was up until 2AM (had to get up for classes at 6:30AM). Would I recommend this to others? If you're not sick of dragons, and if you can deal with an immature heroine, I'd say go for it!
May 23, 2016
Zoë is not your average dragon shifter. You see, there are no such thing as female dragons. That is, unless you are the wyvern. The most special dragon of all. She's supposed to have these amazing powers that will help save/protect all of the pyr. The only problem is, she has yet to exhibit any powers or even shift. Being a late-bloomer has never been as embarrassing or as dangerous as it has now.
The characters of this story didn't jive with me. Zoë was a very VERY difficult character to like. She's highly immature. She is off in lala land the majority of the book. Everything revolved around her and her feelings. It didn't help that she was majorly insecure about not only who she was as a person but as a dragon as well. The book is all in her POV. Then we have the secondary characters of the story. All these "friends" of hers that were supposed to be extremely close due to them growing up together. Except when a spell of doubt is cast upon them, they immediately turn on Zoë, and I don't mean just verbally either. You'd think for a group of friends who were supposed to be as close as they were, that they'd have a bit more of a connection than that. Instead, it takes a complete stranger to recognize the signs and help Zoë out.
What really drew me into this book was the whole prophecy, Zoë's legacy, and if I'm being completely honest here, dragon sifters. I was hoping for a lot of dragon awesomeness. I mean, Zoë's getting her powers, learning who she is as a dragon, and going off to bootcamp to hone her skills. Except the story turned into more of an episode of Big Brother. A group of teens living in a cabin in the middle of nowhere, isolated from everyone, competing to win an exclusive prize. It just wasn't what I thought it would be.
In the end this series is just not for me. Which is sad considering I bought all the books from the adult dragon series the author wrote. Apparently the kids from this series are the children from her adult series. I had planned to read those first but got a bit too impatient to read Flying Blind and only read the fist book in the adult series. I don't think I missed anything by doing so though since the other series is a paranormal romance meant for adults and this is meant for teens. However, the author doesn't overly explain the world she's created. It's implied that you know a lot of what's going on with the more intricate details of the pyr. Even though I only read the first book, I was still left a little lost on some things that I hope would be answered within the remaining books of the trilogy.
The characters of this story didn't jive with me. Zoë was a very VERY difficult character to like. She's highly immature. She is off in lala land the majority of the book. Everything revolved around her and her feelings. It didn't help that she was majorly insecure about not only who she was as a person but as a dragon as well. The book is all in her POV. Then we have the secondary characters of the story. All these "friends" of hers that were supposed to be extremely close due to them growing up together. Except when a spell of doubt is cast upon them, they immediately turn on Zoë, and I don't mean just verbally either. You'd think for a group of friends who were supposed to be as close as they were, that they'd have a bit more of a connection than that. Instead, it takes a complete stranger to recognize the signs and help Zoë out.
What really drew me into this book was the whole prophecy, Zoë's legacy, and if I'm being completely honest here, dragon sifters. I was hoping for a lot of dragon awesomeness. I mean, Zoë's getting her powers, learning who she is as a dragon, and going off to bootcamp to hone her skills. Except the story turned into more of an episode of Big Brother. A group of teens living in a cabin in the middle of nowhere, isolated from everyone, competing to win an exclusive prize. It just wasn't what I thought it would be.
In the end this series is just not for me. Which is sad considering I bought all the books from the adult dragon series the author wrote. Apparently the kids from this series are the children from her adult series. I had planned to read those first but got a bit too impatient to read Flying Blind and only read the fist book in the adult series. I don't think I missed anything by doing so though since the other series is a paranormal romance meant for adults and this is meant for teens. However, the author doesn't overly explain the world she's created. It's implied that you know a lot of what's going on with the more intricate details of the pyr. Even though I only read the first book, I was still left a little lost on some things that I hope would be answered within the remaining books of the trilogy.
June 25, 2011
So I will be honest. I did not expect to like Flying Blind as much as I did. I mean, I had just finished reading Eona and how could two books, both about dragons, be brilliant in a row? I usually am not that lucky.
But this time, I totally was. Because Flying Blind? Rocks. In a totally different way from Eona but it does. I expect you have read the synopsis and therefore know that we were dealing with shape shifting dragons. Or dragons who can take humans who can take dragon forms – or is dragons who can take human forms? Are they more dragon or are they more human? Two different species…and this is a debate more suited for later.
So Zoe is supposed to be the only female dragon in existence. She has all these supposed powers, is supposed to meet all these expectations but the unfortunate thing? She can’t even turn into a dragon. At least not when we meet her. Flying Blind creates interesting mythology and marries the supernatural and the mundane together to tell a coming of age story. Zoe is a likeable character – even when she is being less than likeable. I like how she grows throughout the story. She faces the demons she has to and she learns to let go of her own prejudices. She develops as a character and as a person. And the reader gets to watch it all unfold in front of her.
The love interests are interesting. No, there is no love triangle (thank jeebus!!!) but there are definite lessons learned where love is concerned. There are friendships (!!) between girls (!!!) and I love how Ms. Cooke does not take the easy way out and bank on the stereotypical Mean Girl to create a rival. I think I gave the book extra stars just for that.
The conflict, the resolution and the dangling bit at the end which is not a cliff hanger but a teaser that will segue into the second book perfect – these are all reasons that I totally loved Flying Blind. I also liked the camaraderie and how the entire resolution does not rest on one person’s shoulders but is a conjoined effort.
I totally recommend this to anyone who likes good stories.
But this time, I totally was. Because Flying Blind? Rocks. In a totally different way from Eona but it does. I expect you have read the synopsis and therefore know that we were dealing with shape shifting dragons. Or dragons who can take humans who can take dragon forms – or is dragons who can take human forms? Are they more dragon or are they more human? Two different species…and this is a debate more suited for later.
So Zoe is supposed to be the only female dragon in existence. She has all these supposed powers, is supposed to meet all these expectations but the unfortunate thing? She can’t even turn into a dragon. At least not when we meet her. Flying Blind creates interesting mythology and marries the supernatural and the mundane together to tell a coming of age story. Zoe is a likeable character – even when she is being less than likeable. I like how she grows throughout the story. She faces the demons she has to and she learns to let go of her own prejudices. She develops as a character and as a person. And the reader gets to watch it all unfold in front of her.
The love interests are interesting. No, there is no love triangle (thank jeebus!!!) but there are definite lessons learned where love is concerned. There are friendships (!!) between girls (!!!) and I love how Ms. Cooke does not take the easy way out and bank on the stereotypical Mean Girl to create a rival. I think I gave the book extra stars just for that.
The conflict, the resolution and the dangling bit at the end which is not a cliff hanger but a teaser that will segue into the second book perfect – these are all reasons that I totally loved Flying Blind. I also liked the camaraderie and how the entire resolution does not rest on one person’s shoulders but is a conjoined effort.
I totally recommend this to anyone who likes good stories.
June 16, 2012
Zoe is a combination of Jacinda and Sophie. Where Jacinda’s tale is a little bit more of the romantic kind with her dragon hunter and star crossed lovers’ tale, Zoe is not quite that. She felt much younger for one; it’s her youth that had her prone to the most awkward of exchanges in the boy/girl department. It’s also these boy/girl moments that allowed for a lot of the Sophie-esque moments to crop up. So there was snark, but there was pining too. I liked that.
I dove into Flying Blind unaware of it being a spin off of the more adult Dragonfire series. I’m assuming plenty of the old characters showed up, but it’s of no moment. A lot of this felt young and fun. Her dealing with her parents, her affection for them and her frustration with was plain to see. Then those moments with her bonding with her BFF, or even that aspect of a would-be unrequited love on her end had me enjoying the story more. The meat of story though is her coming into her own, figuring out who she was and what she could do.
I enjoyed this one… even if there were moments that frustrated me. It’s a young book; she’s a young girl. These two are made even more obvious given what she’s made to deal with: of people turning on certain people, or of her being unable to get a grip on what she must, or even of the deluge of hot hot hot boys paying attention her, or of the drama of having the one who counted not doing so, on account of a hotter older girl’s presence.
One part that’s still sticking is Jared’s role in this. I like the idea of it being more than a dragon shifter series; that she and her kind are a part of a bigger more magical/fantasy based world… even if a lot of the magical isn’t as emphasized. I like the hints of magic that’s introduced through spell singers and mages; those things made it even more interesting
It’s young, it’s fun… and I’m reading the next one now.
3/5
I dove into Flying Blind unaware of it being a spin off of the more adult Dragonfire series. I’m assuming plenty of the old characters showed up, but it’s of no moment. A lot of this felt young and fun. Her dealing with her parents, her affection for them and her frustration with was plain to see. Then those moments with her bonding with her BFF, or even that aspect of a would-be unrequited love on her end had me enjoying the story more. The meat of story though is her coming into her own, figuring out who she was and what she could do.
I enjoyed this one… even if there were moments that frustrated me. It’s a young book; she’s a young girl. These two are made even more obvious given what she’s made to deal with: of people turning on certain people, or of her being unable to get a grip on what she must, or even of the deluge of hot hot hot boys paying attention her, or of the drama of having the one who counted not doing so, on account of a hotter older girl’s presence.
One part that’s still sticking is Jared’s role in this. I like the idea of it being more than a dragon shifter series; that she and her kind are a part of a bigger more magical/fantasy based world… even if a lot of the magical isn’t as emphasized. I like the hints of magic that’s introduced through spell singers and mages; those things made it even more interesting
It’s young, it’s fun… and I’m reading the next one now.
3/5
July 2, 2011
From full review on Teens Read and Write
Zoe's voice jumps off the page!
I loved this feisty heroine struggling to live up to the famous destiny fate has thrust upon her. At times she's clueless, frustrated, jealous, angry, whiny - but she toughs it out and shows exceptional loyalty, strength and smarts when it counts.
Her guy buddies at boot camp are great. The dads are refreshingly active, positive parents. This is a spin-off of Cooke's adult series and I'm sure those familiar with the adult characters will find their presence a special treat. Cooke's dragon lore is fun stuff - a dragon-lovers heaven!
The characters are multi-dimensional and I loved the almost non-stop action at the end. Yay! While I figured out who the 'bad guy' was, I remained very intrigued because I hadn't a clue as to his true self, his motives, or how he was manipulating the key players.
The love interest, Jared, is equal parts hot and adorable. I'm a little iffy on the age difference between Zoe, 15, and Jared, 20, especially since Zoe often comes off as a young 15, however the romance isn't a big part of the plot so I'll see how that plays out in the future. But I'm dying for more Jared!
There's lots of shape-shifting and magic and spells and fighting and secrets and lies and - oooooo! Just so much fun!
FLYING BLIND is a great coming of age story with a high-spirited, memorable heroine and key messages of self-belief, love, friendship, and loyalty. And the fact that it's bursting with oodles of sensational dragon excitement only adds to it's entertainment factor!
Zoe's voice jumps off the page!
I loved this feisty heroine struggling to live up to the famous destiny fate has thrust upon her. At times she's clueless, frustrated, jealous, angry, whiny - but she toughs it out and shows exceptional loyalty, strength and smarts when it counts.
Her guy buddies at boot camp are great. The dads are refreshingly active, positive parents. This is a spin-off of Cooke's adult series and I'm sure those familiar with the adult characters will find their presence a special treat. Cooke's dragon lore is fun stuff - a dragon-lovers heaven!
The characters are multi-dimensional and I loved the almost non-stop action at the end. Yay! While I figured out who the 'bad guy' was, I remained very intrigued because I hadn't a clue as to his true self, his motives, or how he was manipulating the key players.
The love interest, Jared, is equal parts hot and adorable. I'm a little iffy on the age difference between Zoe, 15, and Jared, 20, especially since Zoe often comes off as a young 15, however the romance isn't a big part of the plot so I'll see how that plays out in the future. But I'm dying for more Jared!
There's lots of shape-shifting and magic and spells and fighting and secrets and lies and - oooooo! Just so much fun!
FLYING BLIND is a great coming of age story with a high-spirited, memorable heroine and key messages of self-belief, love, friendship, and loyalty. And the fact that it's bursting with oodles of sensational dragon excitement only adds to it's entertainment factor!
January 31, 2012
The dragon-y stuff: pretty cool. The character stuff: not so much.
Zoë is a Pyr and, more specifically, the Wyvern. Or she’s supposed to be. The book tells me this is a big deal. She’s the only female dragon shape-shifter and as her generation’s Wyvern she'll be able to help her kind, albeit from a distance. She only knows this is her supposed future because others have told her, she’s fifteen already and has never been able to shift. She gets her period (mmm-hmm) which means that *something* is on the horizon. Her dad, the leader of their kind, agrees and arranges for her to go to Pyr boot camp, a kind of retreat/competition for the younger generation to help them come into their abilities.
I had a lot of false starts. Zoë was immature and had a lot of complaints and a self-centered attitude. When a new character showed up I though finally—and it was only page 80. But once everyone convened at boot camp and the competition started, it got interesting. I was confused about a lot of things (though, granted, I may have skimmed over the explanations). How big are these dragons? There’s old-speak, but they can also carry on conversations with humans in dragon form? It’s always nice when the were- clothes issue gets explained, in this case it’s a super fast disrobing, but what about when the transformation is an unplanned surprise? This may all be explained in the adult series this one is a spin-off of, but I could have used more of that information and less of “Zoë’s life is sooo hard.”
I was looking forward to the next book until I read the teaser first chapter and saw that Zoë-the-human is still the same girl she was at the beginning of this book. Not for me. But, still. Dragons are cool.
Zoë is a Pyr and, more specifically, the Wyvern. Or she’s supposed to be. The book tells me this is a big deal. She’s the only female dragon shape-shifter and as her generation’s Wyvern she'll be able to help her kind, albeit from a distance. She only knows this is her supposed future because others have told her, she’s fifteen already and has never been able to shift. She gets her period (mmm-hmm) which means that *something* is on the horizon. Her dad, the leader of their kind, agrees and arranges for her to go to Pyr boot camp, a kind of retreat/competition for the younger generation to help them come into their abilities.
I had a lot of false starts. Zoë was immature and had a lot of complaints and a self-centered attitude. When a new character showed up I though finally—and it was only page 80. But once everyone convened at boot camp and the competition started, it got interesting. I was confused about a lot of things (though, granted, I may have skimmed over the explanations). How big are these dragons? There’s old-speak, but they can also carry on conversations with humans in dragon form? It’s always nice when the were- clothes issue gets explained, in this case it’s a super fast disrobing, but what about when the transformation is an unplanned surprise? This may all be explained in the adult series this one is a spin-off of, but I could have used more of that information and less of “Zoë’s life is sooo hard.”
I was looking forward to the next book until I read the teaser first chapter and saw that Zoë-the-human is still the same girl she was at the beginning of this book. Not for me. But, still. Dragons are cool.
April 7, 2012
RATING: 1.5 Out Of 5
I'm fairly dissapointed with this novel, after all the hype up from other reviewers I was expecting this novel to be amazing, in reality it wasn't. Not only was the writing style extremly childish but also i just could't like Zoe, the girl the book revolves around. I found her more concerned to peoples looks than whats on the inside; she went on and on about Nick's looks and that meant they had to be together blah blah blah "he's the classic, popular, captain-of-the-football-team, every cheerleaders's dream kind of guy." WHY DOES EVERY FEMALE PROTAGONIST HAVE TO LIKE A GUY THAT SOUNDS LIKE THIS??? HOW UN-ORIGINAL.
Its just annoying that whenever you read a novel about a girl and shes describing the boy she likes - this is what she likes about him, his looks - Zoe, how 1 dimensional you are! Also the fact that you said you 'hated' Isabelle, yes hated!, because she was pretty and because of the way Nick looked at her "I realised at that moment I could like her - if the circumstances were different" - so much for the saying don't judge a book from its cover. Zoe comes off extremly SHALLOW!!! Also for a girl who says shes in love with nick and he is her destiny she is quick to flirt with other guys, Jared - then Adrian.
These aspects made me really not like Zoe, so because of this and the writing style i just didn't like it this novel. Though the dragon aspects were really cool and interesting I'm afraid it in no way compares to Sophie Jordon's Firelight.
I'm fairly dissapointed with this novel, after all the hype up from other reviewers I was expecting this novel to be amazing, in reality it wasn't. Not only was the writing style extremly childish but also i just could't like Zoe, the girl the book revolves around. I found her more concerned to peoples looks than whats on the inside; she went on and on about Nick's looks and that meant they had to be together blah blah blah "he's the classic, popular, captain-of-the-football-team, every cheerleaders's dream kind of guy." WHY DOES EVERY FEMALE PROTAGONIST HAVE TO LIKE A GUY THAT SOUNDS LIKE THIS??? HOW UN-ORIGINAL.
Its just annoying that whenever you read a novel about a girl and shes describing the boy she likes - this is what she likes about him, his looks - Zoe, how 1 dimensional you are! Also the fact that you said you 'hated' Isabelle, yes hated!, because she was pretty and because of the way Nick looked at her "I realised at that moment I could like her - if the circumstances were different" - so much for the saying don't judge a book from its cover. Zoe comes off extremly SHALLOW!!! Also for a girl who says shes in love with nick and he is her destiny she is quick to flirt with other guys, Jared - then Adrian.
These aspects made me really not like Zoe, so because of this and the writing style i just didn't like it this novel. Though the dragon aspects were really cool and interesting I'm afraid it in no way compares to Sophie Jordon's Firelight.
July 10, 2011
First of all, stunning cover. The girl is really gorgeous and has a beautiful green eyes. If there should be a girl who able to shape shifted to a dragon, then this girl is definitely the one.
This book is pretty much grab my attention from the very first time I laid eyes on. When I first read the book, I honestly think it's a bit slow, and sometimes I have to put this book down and move to next book on my list. But I'm really glad I got enough sense to continue reading this book because the ending and the plot is actually worth-reading.
The characters on this book is good enough, even though there's also those moment when I want to grab the main character and shake the sense out of her. She's being stupid and all, but I guess being a teenager with all that angst and hormones in the making is pretty much the cause. I'm trying to understand them since I myself is a teenager. So I try to talk myself that their behavior is understandable. Well, maybe not sometimes.
But there's Jared though. From the first time he appeared on the book, I know right away that he is going to be my fave in this series. And yeah, he definitely is.
He is someone with cool demeanor and enough sense inside all those hormone-in-the-making and attitude. I really adore him. He is intelligent, understanding, bold, and gentle. He is a good match to Zoë.
well, I would like to read the next book, but I really hoping for more twist and surprise.
This book is pretty much grab my attention from the very first time I laid eyes on. When I first read the book, I honestly think it's a bit slow, and sometimes I have to put this book down and move to next book on my list. But I'm really glad I got enough sense to continue reading this book because the ending and the plot is actually worth-reading.
The characters on this book is good enough, even though there's also those moment when I want to grab the main character and shake the sense out of her. She's being stupid and all, but I guess being a teenager with all that angst and hormones in the making is pretty much the cause. I'm trying to understand them since I myself is a teenager. So I try to talk myself that their behavior is understandable. Well, maybe not sometimes.
But there's Jared though. From the first time he appeared on the book, I know right away that he is going to be my fave in this series. And yeah, he definitely is.
He is someone with cool demeanor and enough sense inside all those hormone-in-the-making and attitude. I really adore him. He is intelligent, understanding, bold, and gentle. He is a good match to Zoë.
well, I would like to read the next book, but I really hoping for more twist and surprise.
October 31, 2011
I'm quite happy to say that I might be doing this book an injustice with my review as I really didn't get on with it. Maybe it was because I read it to close to reading Firelight, another dragon shapeshifting book but for a variety of reasons I'll go through below this book really didn't do it for me.
The story itself is interesting and it's nice to be offered something other than vampires or werewolves in the YA paranormal romance market and their certainly were some good ideas going on which could make for a really good overall plot.
The thing that really did it (or didn't depending on how you see it I suppose) for me was that the main character Zoe in this book was a complete whinger. All the girl did was moan about not being powerful, not having big breasts (seriously I did not need to read that the countless times I had to) and how everyone was better than her. I honestly got to the point where I really didn't want to hear anymore about her self indulgent whining. There were sections of the book where she acted like a complete child and was really selfish and self involved meanign others got put in danger. I got to the point where no matter how fast paced the storyline of interesting the ideas I really didn't care because I wanted Zoe to get ripped to pieces by the other dragons so everyone could have a peaceful time without her.
So will I read the next book? Probably not! If you want a dragon book read Sophie Jordan's Firelight instead.
The story itself is interesting and it's nice to be offered something other than vampires or werewolves in the YA paranormal romance market and their certainly were some good ideas going on which could make for a really good overall plot.
The thing that really did it (or didn't depending on how you see it I suppose) for me was that the main character Zoe in this book was a complete whinger. All the girl did was moan about not being powerful, not having big breasts (seriously I did not need to read that the countless times I had to) and how everyone was better than her. I honestly got to the point where I really didn't want to hear anymore about her self indulgent whining. There were sections of the book where she acted like a complete child and was really selfish and self involved meanign others got put in danger. I got to the point where no matter how fast paced the storyline of interesting the ideas I really didn't care because I wanted Zoe to get ripped to pieces by the other dragons so everyone could have a peaceful time without her.
So will I read the next book? Probably not! If you want a dragon book read Sophie Jordan's Firelight instead.
April 2, 2012
What else can I say, I absolutely loved this book.
I havn't read any dragon books before this but it was definitely worth venturing through and I couldn't of asked for a perfect book to go into as a newbie dragon reader.
I will have to get my hands on the next book and I also found out it is actually a spin off so I better find the original book series while I am at it.(although it is not necessary to when reading this.)
All the characters were greatly developed and all weren't cast aside they all had a significance and a role to play in the story.
Zoe's point of view was great to read from and I definitely felt like a 15-year-old girl again except with awesome dragon powers.
There was enough romance that was satisfying but wasn't the whole plot of the book and I think was built up perfectly.
I love that Zoe had to work at her powers and they weren't given to her on a silver platter and other characters particularly Jared telling her to not expect her powers to come if she isn't even going to try and work at them.
Zoe was very intelligent at times and I loved watching her grow immensely throughout the book and wasn't bothered by her mistakes since there was consequences to her actions.
Although it is a spin off I didn't feel like I had missed out on anything and I understood what was going on.
I honestly recommend this book to anyone because I now want to read more dragon stories.
I havn't read any dragon books before this but it was definitely worth venturing through and I couldn't of asked for a perfect book to go into as a newbie dragon reader.
I will have to get my hands on the next book and I also found out it is actually a spin off so I better find the original book series while I am at it.(although it is not necessary to when reading this.)
All the characters were greatly developed and all weren't cast aside they all had a significance and a role to play in the story.
Zoe's point of view was great to read from and I definitely felt like a 15-year-old girl again except with awesome dragon powers.
There was enough romance that was satisfying but wasn't the whole plot of the book and I think was built up perfectly.
I love that Zoe had to work at her powers and they weren't given to her on a silver platter and other characters particularly Jared telling her to not expect her powers to come if she isn't even going to try and work at them.
Zoe was very intelligent at times and I loved watching her grow immensely throughout the book and wasn't bothered by her mistakes since there was consequences to her actions.
Although it is a spin off I didn't feel like I had missed out on anything and I understood what was going on.
I honestly recommend this book to anyone because I now want to read more dragon stories.
November 9, 2011
When I first heard of Flying Blind its sounded really good and when I received it from Allison & Busby I was really happy however this was short lived.
Upon starting Flying Blind I wasn't impressed with the main character Zoë, to me she appeared self centred and wanted everything to revolve around her and the only good side I saw of her was protecting her friend from bullies, which then again got turned around to her.
I liked the plot line and idea behind Flying Blind, and some of the secondary characters a lot, but I have to admit the parts I liked best were the fighting, and when Zoë wasn't making it all about her again.
I disliked her attitude towards Isabelle just because she saw her as competition for the attention of Nick, even though a relationship with Nick herself would not have been able to go anywhere, and again thought so much of herself that she failed to stop and think about the rules. I know that some spell was used to heighten this feeling, but if she didn't act like this in the first place then a lot of things that happened would not have happened.
I really struggled to read Flying Blind and wanted it to end but found myself continuing to read just to hope that it got better and Zoë changed her attitude, however I was sorely disappointed.
Upon starting Flying Blind I wasn't impressed with the main character Zoë, to me she appeared self centred and wanted everything to revolve around her and the only good side I saw of her was protecting her friend from bullies, which then again got turned around to her.
I liked the plot line and idea behind Flying Blind, and some of the secondary characters a lot, but I have to admit the parts I liked best were the fighting, and when Zoë wasn't making it all about her again.
I disliked her attitude towards Isabelle just because she saw her as competition for the attention of Nick, even though a relationship with Nick herself would not have been able to go anywhere, and again thought so much of herself that she failed to stop and think about the rules. I know that some spell was used to heighten this feeling, but if she didn't act like this in the first place then a lot of things that happened would not have happened.
I really struggled to read Flying Blind and wanted it to end but found myself continuing to read just to hope that it got better and Zoë changed her attitude, however I was sorely disappointed.
November 26, 2011
I dunno. This book got good ratings, and some good reviews from people I usually agree with, but it annoyed the crap out of me!
The lead just seemed whiny and self-involved, and I couldn't make myself care (or get an inkling of) where the plot was going over a third of the way through. Also, the fact that there's only one female dragon at a time - and her role is to facilitate communication and the development of other (male) dragons' gifts--and as an oracle, i.e. a woman likely to go crazycakes. It's not that there's inherently wrong with any of these abilities, but it's lame that if there's only going to be one female she has to possess such gendered capabilities. In general, I'm in favor of seeing more diversity in the strengths of female UF heroines--beyond being "kick arse"--especially if they involve intellectual abilities, but this seems like a turn in the wrong direction, IMO.
The lead just seemed whiny and self-involved, and I couldn't make myself care (or get an inkling of) where the plot was going over a third of the way through. Also, the fact that there's only one female dragon at a time - and her role is to facilitate communication and the development of other (male) dragons' gifts--and as an oracle, i.e. a woman likely to go crazycakes. It's not that there's inherently wrong with any of these abilities, but it's lame that if there's only going to be one female she has to possess such gendered capabilities. In general, I'm in favor of seeing more diversity in the strengths of female UF heroines--beyond being "kick arse"--especially if they involve intellectual abilities, but this seems like a turn in the wrong direction, IMO.
July 8, 2012
Overall Flying Blind left me bored. The dragon aspect drew me to the story and overall I felt it had potential to be fun. But the main character of Zoe tends to be annoying and self-absorbed and we learn little about other characters. Her lists were tedious and I wish the information were introduced in a better fashion. Honestly they made me want to stop reading whenever I encountered one. Also, the dragon lore was limited and I felt Cooke could have done a much better job. We were told they were dragons and given lists of characteristics etc. but not any real information that made the story appealing. It felt impractical that Zoe would know so little if she was destined to be such a major player in the dragon world. Subtract that this or that character can turn into a dragon (specifications unknown, like exactly how big they are) and it is a cliche and very dull YA read. Zoe spends more time drooling over one guy to the next and writing lists than actually telling a decent story.
January 14, 2012
It pulled me in right away only to lose me the more and more the main character acted like a brat. I know, I know - there was dark magic at work and confusing dreams and new powers, but it did not make reading through all that a pleasure. I am glad I went on because the second part gets better again, once things clear up and the heroine begins acting more mature and badass. (And stops swooning about boys for a minute.)
I love the whole idea of how the dragons and dragon lore works here. I liked all the characters, though not all the time, so props for making them more complex.
I do hope the next one will follow with a bit more mature heroine, as she was near the end.
I love the whole idea of how the dragons and dragon lore works here. I liked all the characters, though not all the time, so props for making them more complex.
I do hope the next one will follow with a bit more mature heroine, as she was near the end.
September 30, 2021
DNF @ page 260 ish
I have a lot of time for dragons. What I don't have time for is girls hating other girls because they are subjectively prettier. It is not Isabelle's fault she has boobs Zoe. Neither is it her fault that teenage boys are broadly hormonal creatures who like boobs. Life is not a competition to get the best boy. And, I promise, 90% of the boys you find attractive at 15 will seem revolting at 30.
Come on now - Zoe is a wyvern. The boys are dragons for fuck's sake. Haven't they got anything more exciting to do than moon over each other and act all trigger happy?
As an aside, does it seem intensely lame to anyone else that the dragons' scales can be destroyed by their own fire?
I tried to stick it out because dragons. I gave up because the shallowness gets heavier on every page.
I have a lot of time for dragons. What I don't have time for is girls hating other girls because they are subjectively prettier. It is not Isabelle's fault she has boobs Zoe. Neither is it her fault that teenage boys are broadly hormonal creatures who like boobs. Life is not a competition to get the best boy. And, I promise, 90% of the boys you find attractive at 15 will seem revolting at 30.
Come on now - Zoe is a wyvern. The boys are dragons for fuck's sake. Haven't they got anything more exciting to do than moon over each other and act all trigger happy?
As an aside, does it seem intensely lame to anyone else that the dragons' scales can be destroyed by their own fire?
I tried to stick it out because dragons. I gave up because the shallowness gets heavier on every page.
October 31, 2017
Link: https://holedupinabook.blogspot.com/2...
For some odd reason I really enjoyed this book even though I seriously did not like Zoe the main character. There was just something about the book – most likely the plot that kept me engaged and entertained so despite all of my eye-rolling at Zoe and her ridiculousness, I still really liked the book. I enjoyed it so much that I tried to find the rest of the series but alas, I could not find them. So this will most likely be the end of my adventure with the Dragon shifters.
I just could not stand Zoe at all. She is probably one of the most childish, most obnoxious and definitely the stupidest character I have ever met. There were so many incidences in the book where I’m honestly just like WTF Zoe. She was also incredibly slow at times and it was to the point that it actually hindered the plot which I guess was the point but it was so annoying. She was just so dense! She also constantly thought she was special even though nothing really pointed to that fact… So not only was she obnoxious, I also found her a bit stuck-up. And she was so competitive with the new girl because she was so insecure about herself. Insecure girls are the worst.
As for the other characters, I did find most of them on the immature side especially the Pyr gang. However, I do have to say that they’re boys and boys are notorious for being immature and high school boys are the worst in that category. Also, in perspective of the whole “spell” aspect, I kind of understand a bit more as to why they seemed more annoying than usual. I still found them obnoxious though. The only character I liked was the biker who wasn’t part of the group. In fact, he was human and I think I liked him better because he was also older. So I’m not really sure what he sees in Zoe…
Like I said earlier, I did enjoy the plot. I found the whole dragon shifter concept really intriguing plus I like dragons so…that’s always a good thing on my end. So I did thought that the roles of each dragon and whatnot was fascinating. I also enjoyed reading about the Wyvern even thought that was technically Zoe’s role and clearly I did not like that girl. But what she could ultimately do as a Wyvern was interesting and I thought it was especially great that her powers were so much more than the male dragons. Girl power! LOL.
Overall, I liked the book mainly because of the plot with that dragon aspect. I would have liked to read the rest of the series if I could have found it but unfortunately I guess it’s just not meant to be. But if you enjoy reading about dragons and if you can find a copy of the series then check this one out.
For some odd reason I really enjoyed this book even though I seriously did not like Zoe the main character. There was just something about the book – most likely the plot that kept me engaged and entertained so despite all of my eye-rolling at Zoe and her ridiculousness, I still really liked the book. I enjoyed it so much that I tried to find the rest of the series but alas, I could not find them. So this will most likely be the end of my adventure with the Dragon shifters.
I just could not stand Zoe at all. She is probably one of the most childish, most obnoxious and definitely the stupidest character I have ever met. There were so many incidences in the book where I’m honestly just like WTF Zoe. She was also incredibly slow at times and it was to the point that it actually hindered the plot which I guess was the point but it was so annoying. She was just so dense! She also constantly thought she was special even though nothing really pointed to that fact… So not only was she obnoxious, I also found her a bit stuck-up. And she was so competitive with the new girl because she was so insecure about herself. Insecure girls are the worst.
As for the other characters, I did find most of them on the immature side especially the Pyr gang. However, I do have to say that they’re boys and boys are notorious for being immature and high school boys are the worst in that category. Also, in perspective of the whole “spell” aspect, I kind of understand a bit more as to why they seemed more annoying than usual. I still found them obnoxious though. The only character I liked was the biker who wasn’t part of the group. In fact, he was human and I think I liked him better because he was also older. So I’m not really sure what he sees in Zoe…
Like I said earlier, I did enjoy the plot. I found the whole dragon shifter concept really intriguing plus I like dragons so…that’s always a good thing on my end. So I did thought that the roles of each dragon and whatnot was fascinating. I also enjoyed reading about the Wyvern even thought that was technically Zoe’s role and clearly I did not like that girl. But what she could ultimately do as a Wyvern was interesting and I thought it was especially great that her powers were so much more than the male dragons. Girl power! LOL.
Overall, I liked the book mainly because of the plot with that dragon aspect. I would have liked to read the rest of the series if I could have found it but unfortunately I guess it’s just not meant to be. But if you enjoy reading about dragons and if you can find a copy of the series then check this one out.
July 19, 2022
very good
July 13, 2014
As YA dragon books go Flying Blind is better than Firelight.
First of all, I should say that Flying Blind is a spin-off of the adult series which I haven't read. I believe this has been reflected negatively in my rating because I got the distinct feeling I was missing some vital information.
The protagonist is likeable, funny and loyal, and she does everything right. In desperate need of information about her destiny and her abilities as the Wyvern (female dragon shifter) for her generation, she goes to knowledgeable sources like her parents and their friends and the rest of her extended family but no matter what she asks or how much she pleads they give her very little and tell her to figure it out for herself at dragon Boot Camp, basically a summer school for young dragons. Now I'm all for children learning things on their own through trial and error to make the lesson they learn more meaningful but in this case it was downright criminal and mean to do this to poor Zoe. There are limits. It was bordering on neglectful and dangerous for both her and others. She almost killed her friends because she had no idea how to control her power. And this isn't the first time I've read a YA book where adults or people in the know withhold vital information from those that desperately need it, and I'm sick of it. And where were the adults when the kids needed them? Getting their asses handed to them by mages the kids knew nothing about despite them being enemies for I don't know how long. Ugh. But this isn't the only reason why this didn't get a higher rating.
Zoe's cousins and friends had no faith or trust in Zoe whatsoever. How could they even call themselves her friends? It didn't take long for them to turn on her, heaping everything on her shoulders, blaming her for things she couldn't control and not one of them asked her how she felt, what she was having trouble with or how they could help her. No, it was just "I want you to do this for me", "I want you to do that for me", so selfish. She had but one defender though it was implied he had a special ability that meant he could see the truth of things more easily.
The Pyr mythology is interesting and the humorous way the book is written meant this was a breeze to read. I was a little uncomfortable with the romance aspect of things because I wasn't quite clear on the age difference between Zoe and her beau. It may have been only three years (Zoe's 15) but I got the impression it was more. However, the romance isn't the main aspect of the book and there's very little angst.
Isabelle confused me a bit. Although she's set up as competition in the battle for Nick's affection so Zoe automatically dislikes her which comes through loud and clear, I hated Isabelle, too. She was overly earnest and way too helpful. I found her behaviour suspect. No one is that nice. I kept waiting for her dark side to show itself. I was also flummoxed by the prophecy that Nick and Zoe would one day be together when in fact dragon lore states that male and female dragons can never form relationships. Colour me confused.
I didn't particularly like the plot, mainly because it showed the majority of the characters in an extremely negative light, in effect discouraging you from liking them and made them appear weak and stupid. I think I would've been better off reading the adult series first so I could get a better grounding and understanding of the world-building and of the dragon history and mythology.
Flying Blind was an average read for me, nothing supremely outstanding about it except it's lack of angst, love triangles and all-consuming romance, which I suppose does mean it stands out from the crowd after all. ;)
First of all, I should say that Flying Blind is a spin-off of the adult series which I haven't read. I believe this has been reflected negatively in my rating because I got the distinct feeling I was missing some vital information.
The protagonist is likeable, funny and loyal, and she does everything right. In desperate need of information about her destiny and her abilities as the Wyvern (female dragon shifter) for her generation, she goes to knowledgeable sources like her parents and their friends and the rest of her extended family but no matter what she asks or how much she pleads they give her very little and tell her to figure it out for herself at dragon Boot Camp, basically a summer school for young dragons. Now I'm all for children learning things on their own through trial and error to make the lesson they learn more meaningful but in this case it was downright criminal and mean to do this to poor Zoe. There are limits. It was bordering on neglectful and dangerous for both her and others. She almost killed her friends because she had no idea how to control her power. And this isn't the first time I've read a YA book where adults or people in the know withhold vital information from those that desperately need it, and I'm sick of it. And where were the adults when the kids needed them? Getting their asses handed to them by mages the kids knew nothing about despite them being enemies for I don't know how long. Ugh. But this isn't the only reason why this didn't get a higher rating.
Zoe's cousins and friends had no faith or trust in Zoe whatsoever. How could they even call themselves her friends? It didn't take long for them to turn on her, heaping everything on her shoulders, blaming her for things she couldn't control and not one of them asked her how she felt, what she was having trouble with or how they could help her. No, it was just "I want you to do this for me", "I want you to do that for me", so selfish. She had but one defender though it was implied he had a special ability that meant he could see the truth of things more easily.
The Pyr mythology is interesting and the humorous way the book is written meant this was a breeze to read. I was a little uncomfortable with the romance aspect of things because I wasn't quite clear on the age difference between Zoe and her beau. It may have been only three years (Zoe's 15) but I got the impression it was more. However, the romance isn't the main aspect of the book and there's very little angst.
Isabelle confused me a bit. Although she's set up as competition in the battle for Nick's affection so Zoe automatically dislikes her which comes through loud and clear, I hated Isabelle, too. She was overly earnest and way too helpful. I found her behaviour suspect. No one is that nice. I kept waiting for her dark side to show itself. I was also flummoxed by the prophecy that Nick and Zoe would one day be together when in fact dragon lore states that male and female dragons can never form relationships. Colour me confused.
I didn't particularly like the plot, mainly because it showed the majority of the characters in an extremely negative light, in effect discouraging you from liking them and made them appear weak and stupid. I think I would've been better off reading the adult series first so I could get a better grounding and understanding of the world-building and of the dragon history and mythology.
Flying Blind was an average read for me, nothing supremely outstanding about it except it's lack of angst, love triangles and all-consuming romance, which I suppose does mean it stands out from the crowd after all. ;)
July 29, 2011
Zoe is a little distressed. Here she is at the ripe old age of 15 and she still doesn’t have either boobs or her period. She’d love to get the boobs more than the period but with puberty comes the ability to turn into a dragon. You see she is the only female Pyr (Pyr are shape shifting dragons) and since the male offspring of the older Pyr started getting their abilities when they hit puberty she assumes she will too.
Funny (read: strange) things do start to happen when she wakes up one morning but she really has no idea what to make of it. Since she’s the only female Pyr she’s supposedly this “all-knowing” being called the Wyvern but frankly Zoe doubts that she is since she just feels like a regular girl. When she partially turns into a dragon in front of her classmates at school not only does she get suspended but her father (who is the leader of the Pyr) sends her off to Pyr boot camp which is a kind of training session for the younger Pyr.
Zoe’s actually pretty excited to be at boot camp. She gets to see the other Pyr that are more around her age but most importantly Nick, fellow Pyr and the boy she likes. Unfortunately when she arrives so does Isabelle who is not Pyr but is the adopted daughter of one. Nick’s interest is fully on Isabelle and that pisses Zoe right off. She does meet a hunky guy named Jared but she’s not exactly sure what to make of him.
When all the teens get to boot camp there’s a new enrollee that they’re not familiar with but that’s the least of their problems – or so they think. Donovan, who normally runs the boot camp, isn’t around and they’re not sure what they should do with themselves. When the truth comes out about why the new enrollee, Adrian, is there and that the Pyr are in trouble with Mages Zoe needs to prove that she is not only a capable and smart dragon but also the Wyvern and can hump in to help when needed.
If you have been reading the Dragonfire series by Cooke then you’ll recognize the names in this book as these are the teen children of the Pyr from that series. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started the book – especially since I don’t normally read YA books but this one delivered.
The book has a teensy bit of a romantic element but this is not a romance. This is a book about Zoe coming of age and discovering not only her abilities but her limitations. Most of the limitations were set up by Zoe’s own lack of confidence in who she was but when she finally believed in herself she really became a shining star.
Cooke did a fabulous job of giving us characters that were so very normal in their teenage lives while still being these incredible beings. I loved how she brought in the older Pyr that we’d been reading about in the Dragonfire series in a way that was more in line with teaching the younger Pyr about their strengths. Also, so many YA books that I’ve read have teens that have been abandoned, abused, neglected or raised by grandparents that didn’t quite know what to do with them. I thought it was great that we could read about a girl who was incredibly loved, had two parents as well as a huge support system and had rules and limitations, just like normal teens should. I think this is a series that I’m very much going to enjoy and I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment in the Dragon Diaries.
Rating: 4 out of 5
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Tracy.
Funny (read: strange) things do start to happen when she wakes up one morning but she really has no idea what to make of it. Since she’s the only female Pyr she’s supposedly this “all-knowing” being called the Wyvern but frankly Zoe doubts that she is since she just feels like a regular girl. When she partially turns into a dragon in front of her classmates at school not only does she get suspended but her father (who is the leader of the Pyr) sends her off to Pyr boot camp which is a kind of training session for the younger Pyr.
Zoe’s actually pretty excited to be at boot camp. She gets to see the other Pyr that are more around her age but most importantly Nick, fellow Pyr and the boy she likes. Unfortunately when she arrives so does Isabelle who is not Pyr but is the adopted daughter of one. Nick’s interest is fully on Isabelle and that pisses Zoe right off. She does meet a hunky guy named Jared but she’s not exactly sure what to make of him.
When all the teens get to boot camp there’s a new enrollee that they’re not familiar with but that’s the least of their problems – or so they think. Donovan, who normally runs the boot camp, isn’t around and they’re not sure what they should do with themselves. When the truth comes out about why the new enrollee, Adrian, is there and that the Pyr are in trouble with Mages Zoe needs to prove that she is not only a capable and smart dragon but also the Wyvern and can hump in to help when needed.
If you have been reading the Dragonfire series by Cooke then you’ll recognize the names in this book as these are the teen children of the Pyr from that series. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started the book – especially since I don’t normally read YA books but this one delivered.
The book has a teensy bit of a romantic element but this is not a romance. This is a book about Zoe coming of age and discovering not only her abilities but her limitations. Most of the limitations were set up by Zoe’s own lack of confidence in who she was but when she finally believed in herself she really became a shining star.
Cooke did a fabulous job of giving us characters that were so very normal in their teenage lives while still being these incredible beings. I loved how she brought in the older Pyr that we’d been reading about in the Dragonfire series in a way that was more in line with teaching the younger Pyr about their strengths. Also, so many YA books that I’ve read have teens that have been abandoned, abused, neglected or raised by grandparents that didn’t quite know what to do with them. I thought it was great that we could read about a girl who was incredibly loved, had two parents as well as a huge support system and had rules and limitations, just like normal teens should. I think this is a series that I’m very much going to enjoy and I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment in the Dragon Diaries.
Rating: 4 out of 5
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Tracy.
January 27, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Zoë must learn how to summon the dragon in order for her to save her family and friends.
Opening Sentence: There was a guy in my bedroom.
The Review:
There are only a handful of books that I have read that I can honestly say I was taken completely by surprise. This one is all that with a cherry on top. This book has everything going for it, a great hook, wonderful writing, a real sense of self and twists and turns that kept me coming back hour after hour. There was a moment or two near the end of this book, I couldn’t help but say “NO WAY” and scared my poor dog awake.
The story has the skeleton of the typical “coming of age” story but the way the author fleshes out this book is superb. I could hear Zoë’s voice in my head as I read her story which added breath and character to this world. Zoë’s fear, joy and anxiety were demonstrated in her actions and also biological response to emotions such as “made me get even warmer and more flustered.” This type of story telling often goes too far but this is exactly what I look for in an author and book.
The character development for her counterparts: Garrett, Liam, Nick & Isabelle are given substance. I look forward to more from all of these characters in book 2, Winging It.
The parents in this story are people that I can easily see in real life. The way in which Zoë’s dad is portrayed very much reminds me of my own dad, which is why I guess I adored his character. He teaches Zoë by allowing her to stretch and seek answers for herself. He refuses to mollycoddle her and I appreciate that. Who wants a wimpy girl dragon especially if she is gifted with some amazing powers.
Lastly Jared, the human male thrown into this mix of dragon shifters, is a character with charm, charisma, and bad boy attitude with a hidden talent. What woman, young or old is immune to this type of male? Not me. He had me from hello. I look forward to this continued story in book 2.
My final thoughts are if you have any interest in YA, paranormal or just a well told story that is PG rated then this gets my highest recommendation. I look forward to reading book 2 at my earliest opportunity.
Notable Scene:
“Donovan’s orders.” Jared watched me. There was a dare in his eyes and I understood that it was up to me.
He didn’t think I had the nerve.
That made me decide instantly that I was going to do it.
I stood up. He was taller than me, but I refused to be daunted. “First you have to tell me something. You can’t know anything about Wyverns. It’s against the rules.”
He shrugged, unapologetic. “Well, I do. Screw rules.” He winked at me as Alex glared at him. Then he proved that he knew some Wyvern lore. “Send me a dream, Zoë. Or maybe you already have.”
The guys hooted an Nick gave a wolf whistle. But Jared just smiled at me, smiled in a way that made me get even warmer and more flustered.
“On the other hand, you might be right. Maybe I don’t know nearly enough about this particular Wyvern.” His voice dropped low. “Yet.”
FTC Advisory: New America Library/Penguin provided me with a copy of Flying Blind. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Zoë must learn how to summon the dragon in order for her to save her family and friends.
Opening Sentence: There was a guy in my bedroom.
The Review:
There are only a handful of books that I have read that I can honestly say I was taken completely by surprise. This one is all that with a cherry on top. This book has everything going for it, a great hook, wonderful writing, a real sense of self and twists and turns that kept me coming back hour after hour. There was a moment or two near the end of this book, I couldn’t help but say “NO WAY” and scared my poor dog awake.
The story has the skeleton of the typical “coming of age” story but the way the author fleshes out this book is superb. I could hear Zoë’s voice in my head as I read her story which added breath and character to this world. Zoë’s fear, joy and anxiety were demonstrated in her actions and also biological response to emotions such as “made me get even warmer and more flustered.” This type of story telling often goes too far but this is exactly what I look for in an author and book.
The character development for her counterparts: Garrett, Liam, Nick & Isabelle are given substance. I look forward to more from all of these characters in book 2, Winging It.
The parents in this story are people that I can easily see in real life. The way in which Zoë’s dad is portrayed very much reminds me of my own dad, which is why I guess I adored his character. He teaches Zoë by allowing her to stretch and seek answers for herself. He refuses to mollycoddle her and I appreciate that. Who wants a wimpy girl dragon especially if she is gifted with some amazing powers.
Lastly Jared, the human male thrown into this mix of dragon shifters, is a character with charm, charisma, and bad boy attitude with a hidden talent. What woman, young or old is immune to this type of male? Not me. He had me from hello. I look forward to this continued story in book 2.
My final thoughts are if you have any interest in YA, paranormal or just a well told story that is PG rated then this gets my highest recommendation. I look forward to reading book 2 at my earliest opportunity.
Notable Scene:
“Donovan’s orders.” Jared watched me. There was a dare in his eyes and I understood that it was up to me.
He didn’t think I had the nerve.
That made me decide instantly that I was going to do it.
I stood up. He was taller than me, but I refused to be daunted. “First you have to tell me something. You can’t know anything about Wyverns. It’s against the rules.”
He shrugged, unapologetic. “Well, I do. Screw rules.” He winked at me as Alex glared at him. Then he proved that he knew some Wyvern lore. “Send me a dream, Zoë. Or maybe you already have.”
The guys hooted an Nick gave a wolf whistle. But Jared just smiled at me, smiled in a way that made me get even warmer and more flustered.
“On the other hand, you might be right. Maybe I don’t know nearly enough about this particular Wyvern.” His voice dropped low. “Yet.”
FTC Advisory: New America Library/Penguin provided me with a copy of Flying Blind. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
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