Seraphina was a very unique, original, and complex book. When the story begins, Seraphina's world is on the brink of war. For forty years, a treaty was all that prevented a war between the humans and the dragons. The fear, mistrust and lack of understanding between the two species had set their world on a path that could only lead to war. When the prince is murdered, tensions reach a fever pitch as all heads turn to the dragons. Soon the story's heroine, Seraphina Dombegh, a gifted musician in court, is drawn into the mix. As she investigates the murder, attenpts to stop a conspiracy that could destroy what little chance for peace was left, and tries to understand her feelings for the prince's nephew, she must also struggle to conceal her deepest secret. I really enjoyed reading Seraphina. The story was very suspenseful and entertaining, and Rachel Hartman's writing was skillful as well. I think this story is most suited for ages 12 and up.
