Jennifer Monroe seems like an ordinary eighteen-year-old girl, living a typical, uneventful life with a small circle of friends. That is, until her world is upended by the arrival of two imposing men, a goofball, a werewolf, and two large four-legged creatures about a year ago. This encounter sets the stage for an extraordinary journey. Now, Jennifer leads a double life. By day, she is just a high school student. By night, she transforms into a dragon slayer and a fierce warrior in training. But her worlds collide in a spectacular way when a dragon crashes into her high school.

The Rise of the Raidin, by Susan L. Markoff, masterfully blends the realms of fantasy with the mundane, creating a captivating and thrilling narrative. The book is beautifully illustrated by Gabrielle Ragusi and Michaella Barnum, which enhances the immersive experience of this “not so average” teenager’s adventures. The story itself is engaging, exciting, and visually stimulating. Even without the illustrations, Markoff’s vivid descriptions allow readers to vividly imagine the world she has crafted.

The narration is consistently entertaining, ensuring that the reader’s interest never wanes. The fight scenes are particularly impressive. They are depicted with such realism and perfect pacing that it feels as though you are watching a movie unfold. Jennifer’s character introduction leaves a bit of mystery, sparking curiosity about her background and character development. This intriguing enigma adds depth to the story, making readers eager to learn more about the main character as the plot unfolds.

The Rise of the Raidin is an entertaining read with extraordinary world-building. The story stays with you long after you’ve finished it. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling fantasy adventure.

Pages: 369 | ASIN : B09GNVDWMS