The Griffin's Rider is an utterly enchanting read set in an alternative Britain about Neb, a peasant boy so lowly that he doesn't even have a real name, and the adventure he shares with the cheeky, disobedient griffin, Balkind, not to mention the trouble they get themselves into.
When Balkind's rider is unable to control him, Griffin Master Romulus unfairly leaves the griffin behind, and so Neb takes it upon himself to ride Balkind himself because he knows they both deserve a chance. Along the way, they come across a village in need of a hero, and their adventure begins.
This is an awesome story, and perfect for anyone of any age, teenager and adult alike. It's exciting, fantastical, and had me on the edge of my seat many times.
Julia Hughes did an amazing job with the descriptions. I was easily able to imagine the surroundings, the people, the griffins, even the smells and the atmosphere. It was so detailed and intricate that I found myself reading through it slowly and thoroughly to make sure I didn't miss a thing. I've never read a griffin story before, but I didn't find myself lost or confused at all.
My favourite character – aside from Balkind the lovable Griffin – had to be Samara, Neb's love interest. I adore a strong female character with sass and fire, and that's just what she was. The romance between Samara and Neb was sweet and innocent, and yet didn't take over the story, which is just how I like my romances. It simply added a bit of loveliness. I liked how much of a surprise it came to Neb, who didn't have any experience with these kinds of things before.
And the evil characters are so creepy and sinister – just how I like them :). They really added a thrilling, darker aspect to the story, and I kept hoping for them to get what they deserved.
The Griffin's Boy is the kind of story that would look seriously amazing on the big or small screen. It would be something that I'd definitely watch.
I'd definitely recommend this, especially those who like action/adventure and fantasy, with just a dash of romance thrown in to sweeten things up. I hope there will be more books with Neb and Balkind's adventures, and I'll be going out to look up more of Julia Hughes' work right away.
Five stars!