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The Cavernis Trilogy #1
A School for Dragons
Mattie Sharp, a seventeen year, is getting into trouble in L.A. She gets into even more when she's wished to Cavernis -- a world teeming with dragons. There, she learns how to become a knight, how to study with dragons, and how to treat her mysterious "Master of Chivalry."
350 pages, Paperback
Published April 11, 2017
52 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Amy Wolf
64 books89 followersAmy Wolf is an Amazon Kindle Scout winner for her novel THE MISSES BRONTES ESTABLISHMENT.
She recently published the first two books in her Honest Thieves Series, and the first book of her Mythos series. The second book is soon to follow.
Amy has published 38 short stories in the fantasy/sf press and is a graduate of the Clarion West Writer's program. She has an honors English degree from The University of London.
She started her career working for the major Hollywood studios, including 20th Century Fox & Warner Bros.
One of three natives out of 10 million, Amy was forced from L.A. and now lives in Honolulu. She has one adult daughter currently terrorizing L.A., and a small, barky dog.
She recently published the first two books in her Honest Thieves Series, and the first book of her Mythos series. The second book is soon to follow.
Amy has published 38 short stories in the fantasy/sf press and is a graduate of the Clarion West Writer's program. She has an honors English degree from The University of London.
She started her career working for the major Hollywood studios, including 20th Century Fox & Warner Bros.
One of three natives out of 10 million, Amy was forced from L.A. and now lives in Honolulu. She has one adult daughter currently terrorizing L.A., and a small, barky dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 23, 2021
I received this copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!
Content Warning: Underaged drinking, Language
I read this book a few years back and still remember it being a sweet tale. It's an Arthurian-style dragon tale including St. George and the dragon, and reminiscent of Harry Potter with an additional emphasis on dragons. Talking dragons, no less. This book draws from a lot of different lore of dragons. It made it quite the fun read to have such a variety of folklore, legends, and the like combined!
The main character starts out as 10-year-old Mattie, pony lover and adventurer, who happens to discover that dragons are, in fact, real. The tale beings in L.A., then transitions to a magical realm of Cavernis after 7 years have passed and Mattie is now nearly an adult. Cavernis is a magical place but is threatened by a Dark Sorcerer. Unarguably imaginative, the narration and dialogue are definitely more geared towards Middle Grade reades.
My Rating: ★★★1/2
Content Warning: Underaged drinking, Language
I read this book a few years back and still remember it being a sweet tale. It's an Arthurian-style dragon tale including St. George and the dragon, and reminiscent of Harry Potter with an additional emphasis on dragons. Talking dragons, no less. This book draws from a lot of different lore of dragons. It made it quite the fun read to have such a variety of folklore, legends, and the like combined!
The main character starts out as 10-year-old Mattie, pony lover and adventurer, who happens to discover that dragons are, in fact, real. The tale beings in L.A., then transitions to a magical realm of Cavernis after 7 years have passed and Mattie is now nearly an adult. Cavernis is a magical place but is threatened by a Dark Sorcerer. Unarguably imaginative, the narration and dialogue are definitely more geared towards Middle Grade reades.
My Rating: ★★★1/2
April 15, 2018
This review first published on Oh Just Books.
A School for Dragons by Amy Wolf was, SPOILER ALERT, an average story - it has a hero with a good heart, a great friendship and, SURPRISE, a school that is run for and by dragons. It even comes with a moral; I can't even remember the last time I read one of those. The above sentences might have been dripping with too much sarcasm and a tint of disappointment because I read this book as an adult and maybe expected a Young Adult story; however, I think this story would be great for the age group of 8-12 years.
The story follows the struggles of an LA girl, Mattie going to the school for dragons. She goes to school with dragons, lives with them, trains with them and even fights for them when the time comes. At the heart of this story lies a great friendship, the kind we wish we had to lean on, to make us see the light when we are in darkness.
I loved the story when I started reading it. It had seemed so pure but as the story progressed, it became more about the story’s movement than the characters taking their time and reason to develop. The story needed them to be a certain way and so they just did and that seemed like an injustice to the characters that could do so much more.
A lot of characters in the story like the various dragons, St George and a few others that I wouldn’t mention because, spoiler alert, are borrowed from or inspired by myths and legends. When you write such characters, the key to making them a success is, knowing how much to borrow and how much to make up on your own. For that, you have to not just have the imagination but know where to make that transition - where legend stops and turns into what you wrote it to be. And that transition point has to be believable to the readers, it should leave them wanting for more than what you just gave them. One of the finest examples I have seen for this is Dan Brown's writing - if you have read his books, you know what I mean; if you haven't, run to your nearest bookstore or library!
I believe the book could have used a good copy editor and a sensitivity reader. Copy editing is recommended because some of writing could be improved if someone were to just point out a few punctuations. And I have to say this, when you want to enunciate accents and dialects in a book, you have to be very careful to not offend the community as well as make sure it’s not overdone and the reader does understand the dialogues. I believe A School for Dragons has the potential to pass on some really good message to the kids and it should not be tripping over silly reasons like missing commas or a bad accent or an overused phrase.
*A review copy was provided to Oh Just Books by the author in exchange for an honest review*
A School for Dragons by Amy Wolf was, SPOILER ALERT, an average story - it has a hero with a good heart, a great friendship and, SURPRISE, a school that is run for and by dragons. It even comes with a moral; I can't even remember the last time I read one of those. The above sentences might have been dripping with too much sarcasm and a tint of disappointment because I read this book as an adult and maybe expected a Young Adult story; however, I think this story would be great for the age group of 8-12 years.
The story follows the struggles of an LA girl, Mattie going to the school for dragons. She goes to school with dragons, lives with them, trains with them and even fights for them when the time comes. At the heart of this story lies a great friendship, the kind we wish we had to lean on, to make us see the light when we are in darkness.
I loved the story when I started reading it. It had seemed so pure but as the story progressed, it became more about the story’s movement than the characters taking their time and reason to develop. The story needed them to be a certain way and so they just did and that seemed like an injustice to the characters that could do so much more.
A lot of characters in the story like the various dragons, St George and a few others that I wouldn’t mention because, spoiler alert, are borrowed from or inspired by myths and legends. When you write such characters, the key to making them a success is, knowing how much to borrow and how much to make up on your own. For that, you have to not just have the imagination but know where to make that transition - where legend stops and turns into what you wrote it to be. And that transition point has to be believable to the readers, it should leave them wanting for more than what you just gave them. One of the finest examples I have seen for this is Dan Brown's writing - if you have read his books, you know what I mean; if you haven't, run to your nearest bookstore or library!
I believe the book could have used a good copy editor and a sensitivity reader. Copy editing is recommended because some of writing could be improved if someone were to just point out a few punctuations. And I have to say this, when you want to enunciate accents and dialects in a book, you have to be very careful to not offend the community as well as make sure it’s not overdone and the reader does understand the dialogues. I believe A School for Dragons has the potential to pass on some really good message to the kids and it should not be tripping over silly reasons like missing commas or a bad accent or an overused phrase.
*A review copy was provided to Oh Just Books by the author in exchange for an honest review*
January 18, 2023
This is what I am looking for! This kind of story! As another series I got from KickStarter, I knew that I would enjoy this kind of portal fantasy! And I really did! Even though YA like this is not exactly my forte, I do find myself reading them every once in a while to get a much needed change. Besides a few grammar errors and a little bit of a pacing issue, this first book was everything I have been looking for! A story about a human from our modern world being whisked away to a fantasy world where humans are the "bad guys" and non-humans are the "good guys"! With that, this story checked off many of the boxes that I look for when finding something to read. The main characters are delightful and the plot made sense and was actually good. I am definitely invested and look forward to what happens next!
November 27, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book had a slow start but it paid off, the storyline and characters engaging. I was drawn into the story, and am excited to read book two, as I must see what happens next, and, of course, what happens to my ship. Definitely a worthwhile read. 4.5 stars.
This book had a slow start but it paid off, the storyline and characters engaging. I was drawn into the story, and am excited to read book two, as I must see what happens next, and, of course, what happens to my ship. Definitely a worthwhile read. 4.5 stars.
December 4, 2017
The school is for dragons, but the lessons are for all of us
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. A School For Dragons is a YA fantasy book of the most charming sort, with a gently cautionary fable thrown in. The story begins in Mattie Sharpe's childhood, when she finds a dragon's egg. Predictably, Mattie's short-lived adoption and deep friendship with her dragon pet is ended her harassed single mom. Mattie frees her dragon, he disappears, and a grieving Mattie goes home. Then the story turns left. Fast forward to Mattie at seventeen, bored, angry, rebellious, and headed for Teen Trouble on the Ditchin' and Drinkin' Express. She's magically whisked off to Cavernis, the dragon realm, reunited with her old dragon friend, and given a mission - defend Cavernis and its dragon's from hostile takeover by a magical nemesis in the next kingdom. She attends the School For Dragons and is trained as a knight, and none of it comes easily to her. The host of dragon characters is a wonderful mix of dragons from every culture and tradition - European, Chinese, South American, East Indian... There are fire dragons, water dragons, frost dragons, a brownie or two and even a few humans. Author Amy Wolf invests each with characteristics and personalities that make them memorable both as mythical beasts and as Mattie's friends, fellow students, school faculty, and adult mentors. All that was missing in Mattie's mundane life is present in Cavernis, and her changed circumstances change Mattie's perceptions of herself, her life, and others. That changed perspective works the magic Mattie needs to triumph in her struggles, in fantasy and in the real world she returns to. I've called this book a YA -young adult - fantasy, but its disarming whimsy holds a powerful lesson for their parents and other adults as well - young teens and young adults need time, love, coaching, and support to reach their potential in life. Well done, author Amy Wolf!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. A School For Dragons is a YA fantasy book of the most charming sort, with a gently cautionary fable thrown in. The story begins in Mattie Sharpe's childhood, when she finds a dragon's egg. Predictably, Mattie's short-lived adoption and deep friendship with her dragon pet is ended her harassed single mom. Mattie frees her dragon, he disappears, and a grieving Mattie goes home. Then the story turns left. Fast forward to Mattie at seventeen, bored, angry, rebellious, and headed for Teen Trouble on the Ditchin' and Drinkin' Express. She's magically whisked off to Cavernis, the dragon realm, reunited with her old dragon friend, and given a mission - defend Cavernis and its dragon's from hostile takeover by a magical nemesis in the next kingdom. She attends the School For Dragons and is trained as a knight, and none of it comes easily to her. The host of dragon characters is a wonderful mix of dragons from every culture and tradition - European, Chinese, South American, East Indian... There are fire dragons, water dragons, frost dragons, a brownie or two and even a few humans. Author Amy Wolf invests each with characteristics and personalities that make them memorable both as mythical beasts and as Mattie's friends, fellow students, school faculty, and adult mentors. All that was missing in Mattie's mundane life is present in Cavernis, and her changed circumstances change Mattie's perceptions of herself, her life, and others. That changed perspective works the magic Mattie needs to triumph in her struggles, in fantasy and in the real world she returns to. I've called this book a YA -young adult - fantasy, but its disarming whimsy holds a powerful lesson for their parents and other adults as well - young teens and young adults need time, love, coaching, and support to reach their potential in life. Well done, author Amy Wolf!
December 2, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Follow Mattie from an innocent ten year old, estranged from a distant father, being raised by her over worked mother. Then into her life comes a bit of unexpected magic. Later meet Mattie as a disenchanted seventeen year old who sees little reason to go on. When magic once again intervenes in her life go with her to a place where she must strive to become a knight to save a land, her best friend and maybe even herself. Along the way there are many complex and believable characters.
May 5, 2017
This is a fun story about friendship and loyalty at its core. If you are an adult reading this (like me) you need to keep in mind the audience this book is intended for - Children/ YA. Mattie is Seventeen in this story however I find her to be extremely immature so I would think this book would appeal more to pre and early teens. I wish Mattie were a stronger female lead but overall this is a fun enjoyable story
December 4, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really loved this one for the story. And I thought the theme of friendship was great! However my issue falls with the characters seeming to just have problems drop in their lap and then be fixed by magic (not the actual magic in the story). I would have liked a bit more development on problem solving. Overall the plot was well imagined and I enjoyed this setting!
I really loved this one for the story. And I thought the theme of friendship was great! However my issue falls with the characters seeming to just have problems drop in their lap and then be fixed by magic (not the actual magic in the story). I would have liked a bit more development on problem solving. Overall the plot was well imagined and I enjoyed this setting!
December 6, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. An excellent fantasy book that was very action packed and a fun book to read. There are many twists and turns in this well written adventure in the dragon world of Cavernis. We follow Matilda's journey in life as she matures. I loved this part of the series and can't wait to read the next installment to find out what happens.
December 31, 2017
I loved this book and its complete fantasy world. Brilliantly written, it's full of great characters you can really love and relate to (even if they're dragons!), and some you can really dislike who are human! I was kept hooked from beginning to end, and highly recommend it to fantasy lovers of all ages.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
October 17, 2017
The interspecies humor (human and dragon) is fantastic. Mattie, Artorius (Toutle), and Eli grow enormously during this story. The surprise ending was definitely unexpected. Great story. Easy read. I loved it. I hope you do as well.
I was provided this book on behalf of the author. The review is my honest opinion.
I was provided this book on behalf of the author. The review is my honest opinion.
December 2, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. This book had a great storyline that was unique and captivating. I had a hard time putting it down. My only issue was that the writing style was occasionally too simplistic. Almost like it was geared toward the younger ages. Other than that, it was great.
December 13, 2017
If you like Dragons, you will be in love with this book.
I compare this Author to Annie Mccaffery's dragons of perm series and if she keeps improving she may be as great. All you could want is in this novel. How she thinks up a new world and then makes it happen by putting it in print is fantastic and I admire her forbit, keep it up.
I compare this Author to Annie Mccaffery's dragons of perm series and if she keeps improving she may be as great. All you could want is in this novel. How she thinks up a new world and then makes it happen by putting it in print is fantastic and I admire her forbit, keep it up.
January 14, 2018
Refreshing, story on dragons so different from what I have read before. I enjoyed the books and the characters within the story. They were well rounded and grew as time went by. This sure is a book for ages 10 and up. I think any adult that loves stories of dragons will fall into the story and not want to come up for air.
December 13, 2018
Deftly Crafted Tale of Dragons, Friendships and Knights
An excellent story in every aspect. The characters are thoughtfully written and encompass fully real and lifelike actions and feelings. Transport yourself to Cavernis and allow Amy Wolf to regal you with her tales. Pure enjoyment for all ages.
An excellent story in every aspect. The characters are thoughtfully written and encompass fully real and lifelike actions and feelings. Transport yourself to Cavernis and allow Amy Wolf to regal you with her tales. Pure enjoyment for all ages.
May 22, 2017
A School for Dragons by Amy Wolf
Really enjoyed this... I believe it is intended for younger audiences...but still I could picture the adventure of Mattie and her dragon...wouldn't every child want to find a dragon egg in the park when playing?
Really enjoyed this... I believe it is intended for younger audiences...but still I could picture the adventure of Mattie and her dragon...wouldn't every child want to find a dragon egg in the park when playing?
September 2, 2017
A School For Dragons by Amy Wolf is a very good book. This unique book is extremely fun. It is full of magic, whimsy and charm. Book features an engaging storyline and likable characters. This is book #1 in The Cavernis Trilogy. I am posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.
October 9, 2017
I loved the concept of this book, and the leading characters, supporting characters, works-building and plot. I mean c’mon the kindle blurb had me at “Dragon CPAs”! This was, plain and simple, a fun book and I’m definitely looking forward to the new one.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
December 17, 2017
i got an arc copy and i want to review
she is 17 and bored when she is transported to a strange place where she leaves dragons are so different than she thought and then she is trained to be a knight by a mute dragon. how will her life be from now on. what a great read
she is 17 and bored when she is transported to a strange place where she leaves dragons are so different than she thought and then she is trained to be a knight by a mute dragon. how will her life be from now on. what a great read
January 31, 2018
Adventurous
A typical teenager, dragons, sorcery, another world with portals, knights, immortals, giants, what more could anyone want. Read it in one sitting. Could NOT put it down! I can't wait for more
A typical teenager, dragons, sorcery, another world with portals, knights, immortals, giants, what more could anyone want. Read it in one sitting. Could NOT put it down! I can't wait for more
February 4, 2018
Great story..good read.
Well written.. It marched. Interesting premise and enjoyable. Author interested in her own story and chronology good. I liked it very much.. Plan to seek her books in library's inventory at home.
Well written.. It marched. Interesting premise and enjoyable. Author interested in her own story and chronology good. I liked it very much.. Plan to seek her books in library's inventory at home.
November 3, 2017
What a lovely fantasy story with dragons. My favourite. Couldn’t get enough and didn’t want it to end. Hopefully there will be many more. Received an ARC.
November 28, 2017
I found this to be adorable and I think that Eli was my favorite. I think it was cute to see dragons portrayed this way.
January 1, 2018
3.5 stars
January 21, 2018
This was really good for you g adult read
May 17, 2018
Not my favorite book. I think I may be too old for it. The characters seems too young for me.
August 3, 2018
Great Book
Great little book I love it it was great and powerful
Thank You For Letting Me Read This Book I love it
Great little book I love it it was great and powerful
Thank You For Letting Me Read This Book I love it
January 5, 2020
great story
September 8, 2020
Very fun
I'm sure this is considered a YA or teen book and as such it's a very fun and good book
I'm sure this is considered a YA or teen book and as such it's a very fun and good book
December 24, 2024
Bailed when the protagonist bullied the other student for being a nerd and good at science. I don’t care that she regretted it. She’s dead to me now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews