Slayers by C. J. Hill

373 pgs.
Target audience: Young adult
Rating: Wizard

The dragon invasion is coming and mankind’s only protection are the slayers, kids who are descendants of dragon lords and have special dragon fighting powers. The daughter of a state senator, Tori, is spoiled, smart and determined to attend a dragon camp. Ever since she could remember she’s had a sense that dragons are real and can’t wait to be with other kids who feel the same way. However St. George’s Dragon Camp is not the modern camp she was expecting, instead she’ll be living it rough and working hard. The camp is divided into two teams led by their captains – the sullen, moody and darkly handsome Dirk and the charming, popular, and gorgeous Jess. While there are classes on dragon lore, lessons in archery and horse riding, other activities are shrouded in mystery. As it turns out Dr. B., the camp director, runs the camp as a training ground for future dragon slayers. Tori’s special power is slow to manifest but when it does it reveals the secret location of the dragon eggs. Their task is to destroy the eggs before the evil dragonlord, Overdrake, uses them to destroy the world. The majority of the story revolves around the slayer training and picks up with a bang toward the end where all their battle training is put to the test. The fight scenes are thrilling and believable. The romance is sweet and not overpowering as Tori gets caught up in a love triangle between Dirk and Jess. The dragons are vicious and cunning and sure to appeal to a wide teen audience.

(This book provided for review by children's lit - www.childrenslit.com)