How to Betray a Dragon's Hero - How to Train Your Dragon

Though I must admit I was a little exasperated to learn this is STILL not the last book, I read this with as much gusto as I enjoyed the previous books in the series. Ms. Cowell's storytelling and writing skills are as strong as ever, making this a thoroughly enjoyable novel that is certain to please current fans. Though I felt this had a little too much plot in too little time, in general this is just what I've come to expect from Ms. Cowell and these books: humor, quirkiness, excitement, action, and a whole lot of heart.

In the beginning, we are introduced to the Island of Tomorrow, pretty much the place of the prophecy heretofore discussed. The ticking thing is ticking, leaving only a matter of days before a King must be crowned and the race is on to get all the Lost Things together and have them accepted by the Island's blindfolded Guardian (that's a detail I loved.)

Again, I found it a little too much plot too fast, but I still think many a reader will enjoy it all the more because. Here is one scuffle or skirmish right after another for all characters involved. It wasn't quite as funny as prior books, but makes up for it in sheer excitement and adventure. Not to mention its attention to certain characters before glossed over (I recommend a box of tissues if you're really into the characters...)

So it looks like there is one more book, but this sure presents plenty of delectable story in a penultimate way. Those who appreciate Cowell's amazing storytelling talents that just grab at the heart will find this does not disappoint.

AudioBook Review: Stars: Overall 5 Narration 5 Story 4
Hiccup and his erstwhile crew of Camicazi, Fishlegs and of course, Toothless are off on yet another set of adventures with the outcome not so certain. The island of Tomorrow and the ‘ticking thing’ that still ticks is counting down to the day when a new king MUST be crowned. While not as funny as earlier books, there are adventures, failures and tension to spare in this one, and some revelations about Toothless and Snotlout will shed some much needed light (and leave some mystery) for readers. Be aware, this is the winding down of the series, so there are moments that leave readers speechless, and there will be some tears for those who enjoy this series as much as I have.

Poor Hiccup is becoming the hero, but he isn’t without his missteps or mistakes, a rarity in this genre: Cowell is bold enough to present a touch of realism with her fantasy and show the flaws and inexperience in her heroes. Most importantly, every character has a task and adventure that features them, and we see that it is often your friends who really do propel you to feats and acts you never thought possible.

Hiccup has grown up some, and with the vast number of experiences he has under his belt there are still situations he has yet to encounter. Toothless is obstreperous and spoilt, but does have his moments where you wonder if his big reveal will change him…. Only time will tell.

What more can I say about David Tennant’s narration? His voice IS Hiccup, Toothless, Camikazi and Fishlegs, with plenty of insets of the smarmy Alvin the Terrible and the other characters he brings to life. From Scottish to Welsh, a sing-songy Geordie and some solidly RADA level dialects, Tennant enhances the words on the page and each character voice inspires a visual image. I will so miss this series when it ends, it’s been a wonderful ride mixing fantasy, friendship and epic adventures in a series of stories that will delight children and adults alike.

I received an AudioBook copy of the title from Hachette Audio for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

When I first listened to the first two books with my son, back when my son was five-years-old, I thought they were a fun couple of books and didn't realize how amazing the series would turn out. He is 13 now and writing an in depth book report on this book and wow, there is SO much to this it. I'm grateful we were listening to the series when he needed to choose a book for his report, because helping him work on his report and seeing all that is in this book has given me a greater respect for this writer and this series. The book is aimed at youth, but I thoroughly enjoyed listening to every bit. I especially enjoyed listening to David Tenant stutter out Toothless's lines when Toothless was "being polite."

Courage, hope in the face of great difficulties, forgiveness, changing of hearts, what makes a hero.

This book is just simpaly amazing. The plot is great. I rated it 4 star because i hated the cliffhager. Why did you have to do a cliffhanger. It would be great and make another book to finish the story. Please take my advise, I bet many other people that read your books would agree with me. Thanks