Review: You will love this book!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 1, 2014
Going Down in Flames is a well-written, entertaining coming of age novel about a girl who shape-shifts into a dragon.  I like paranormal novels - vampires,  werewolves, fallen angels, Greek gods, etc. - and in my opinion, dragons are a refreshing and enjoyable spin on the genre.  This is a wonderful book for any fan of Young Adult Fantasy. As of the time of this post, the book is only $.99 on Amazon - go grab a copy for this price while you can.Keep reading for a giveaway, excerpt and info about the author, Chris Cannon.  But first:  I honestly enjoyed everything about this book - the original plot, quick pace, surprises (good and bad) and an exciting cast of characters that make the tale a fantastic experience. The enchanting story-telling alone will win new readers to the club.In the first two chapters, Bryn McKenna's whole world is turned upside down when she discovers she's a dragon.  Her parents are forced to debrief her on dragon life: five Clans, identified by scale color and unique powers, are subject to strict laws enforced by the Directorate.  Among the bombshells dropped that day is the fact that Bryn's parents are from different Clans.  Forbidden to marry, they eloped and lived in exile. As a hybrid dragon, Bryn has no Clan - making her an outcast in this new life. She must attend the Institute of Excellence, a private boarding school for dragons. She is given a cold reception on her first day, and any hope of flying under the radar is dashed during Orientation.Bryn copes with this sweeping change with an arsenal that surely served her well before her transformation: dry humor, witty sarcasm,  junk food and cute underwear.  She is funny, smart, vulnerable and (except for the dragon parts) every bit a real teenager letting go of the past while facing an uncertain future.  Bryn is freaking hilarious, and her clever comebacks and private thoughts will make you smile cover to cover, promise.  Kudos to the author for crafting such a likeable, authentic character coming of age in a such a fantastical setting.Despite her pariah status on campus, Bryn is befriended by a trio of Black Dragons: kindhearted Ivy, fun and flirty Clint and resident bad boy, Zavien.  These characters become Bryn's support system. Ivy and Clint help her acclimate to her new life and provide unconditional friendship in a hostile environment.  Zavien is dark and mysterious, but at times (like when he catches Bryn reading a romance novel - one of my favorite scenes) lighthearted and charming.While adjusting to life as a dragon and a new school, Bryn becomes entangled in a mission - and the very things that make her unique make her perfect for the task. The tension between the status quo and this mixed-breed dragon makes for excellent conflict.  The bad guys (Ferrin and Jaxon) are also full of depth and surprises.  No one is how they seem at first glance, and uncovering the layers the characters (even then ones you love to hate) in this book is one of the many facets that make this novel shine.Like everyone else who has read and loved Going Down in Flames, I am eager to get to Book 2 ASAP!!