Do you like dragons, magic, and talking wolves?

Trick question! Everyone likes dragons, magic, and talking wolves! Luckily, the book I'm reviewing today has all 3 plus myths, sword fights, and turnips. (I think the turnips must have a significance to the rest of the series because they keep reappearing.)  I'm talking about Turik and the Lost Woman (Turik Saga Book 1) by Jonas Lau. This is the first book in a series for middle grade readers although that shouldn't put off readers of other ages. :-) Turik is your typical 12 year old who is trying to become a sage, save people from evil forces, and fulfill ancient prophecies. No biggie. I resisted the pull of this book until about 3/4 of the way through because I was determined not to get sucked into another series...I failed. (In fact, I decided to support the author by buying the second book in the series, Turik and the Elven Queen.) If you're a fan of adventure stories, the Viking era (there are no mention of Vikings but I keep picturing them for some reason), and magic then you really can't go wrong here. Lau is an imaginative writer and while the plot tends to drag in places it really picks up after the midpoint and barrels right through to the conclusion. I defy you to finish this book and not want to learn what happens to all of the characters. (Will we get to see Bernard again? What's the deal with Noam?) Solid 6.5/10 for this one.

Source: Amazon's listing of the book

**If you're interested in buying this book or any books really, you can click here or here. The first will re-direct you to AbeBooks and the second will re-direct you to The Book Depository. These are great websites for purchasing books (AbeBooks carries inexpensive used and out-of-print books and The Book Depository ships free everywhere in the world). Full disclosure: I will receive a commission on all sales made by following either of these links. I wouldn't recommend a site that I didn't use and you are under no obligation to purchase anything. :-) **


PS I was sent Turik and the Lost Woman by the author, Jonas Lau, for review purposes. This has in no way altered my opinion of the book. XD