Cute mystery, interesting world building. ( )

Villain Keeper by Laurie McKay is the first book of The Last Dragon Charmer series. Prince Caden wants to be an Elite Paladin, but his father, King Axel, sends Caden away and Caden isn't sure why his father would do that without having the Elite Paladin ceremony. He ends up in Asheville, North Carolina with Brynne, a sorceress, and his horse Sir Horace.

This was a fun story. Fast paced and imaginative. I can't wait to read the next installment!

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and all opinions are my own. ( )

Adult Reader Reaction: As someone who has visited Asheville, NC, the story offered a familiar setting ... and a little extra fun. While Brynne seems to have immediately become "a local," Caden has not. They provide both humor and reflection. Fantasy is not my favorite genre, but this is an enjoyable (if somewhat predictable) read. I'm looking forward to Book 2.

Pros: Magic, adventure, and (grudging) friendship combine in this action-packed fantasy for dragon seekers and dragon slayers! The story is set in high school, and may be attractive for high interest / low reading level readers.

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I quite liked the reverse portal fantasy setup and the world that Caden comes from. It was interesting to see the realistic way Caden's appearance in our world was handled including foster care and counseling for his delusions. Loved the dragons though I hope to see more of them in the sequel ;). Caden noticed Brynne's beauty a bit too often for my taste though ha. ( )