A Darkness of Dragons - S A Patrick

A Darkness of Dragons - S A Patrick

‘There is magic in music.’

Patch is trying to make his way in the world as a piper when he is sentenced to serve jail time (a very, very long sentence) for playing a forbidden spell on his pipe which endangers those around him.

Whilst in his cell, he uncovers a secret about the evil Piper of Hamlyn and, after the dragons attack the castle where he's imprissoned inadvertently allow him to escape, he must uncover the truth about the Piper of Hamlyn who is on the loose.

Together with his friend Wren (a girl cursed to live as a rat) and Barber (the outcast dracogriff) they embark on a journey to try to save the day.

O's Opinion

From the start, this book is high-paced and energetic, so I had to keep reading to find out what happened. I was intrigued from the beginning and I loved it to the end.This amazing read was a page turner and I couldn't stop reading because, towards the end the suspense increased even further!

I loved Wren because she was determined to help Patch and not think about herself first. She was kind to him and helped him escape and wasn't scared about anything. I was surprised at how helpful Barver was to them and how friendly he was.

K's Opinion

This is a book full of adventure and excitement, anticipation and enough twists and turns to keep you on your toes.  The power of friendship and the strength of the bond that develops between the main characters is evident to see, as is the idea of  doing the right thing.

Patch is certainly a character who sticks to his principles, even if it results in him being down on his luck and even imprisoned. He is a very talented piper and a good friend who just wants to help - I spent a lot of the book wanting to reach into the pages to give him a big hug!

Wren is quite the character and I suspect someone that many readers will warm to.  She is a fiercely courageous and stubborn person who doesn't let adversity get to her.  Her bravery could teach us all a lesson!

Braver is probably the most unexpected character in the book: for such a large creature, he has a surprisingly gentle and polite manner which takes everybody by surprise - he epitomises the saying ‘don't judge people by their appearance.’

This is a perfect M.G. book, especially for those who miss Harry Potter!  Read it curled up wrapped in a blanket with a mug of hot chocolate and you'll be left with a reassuringly warm glow.