I used to look at this book everytime I went to Borders. I would pick it up, read a few pages, sometimes I even carried it around with my to be purchased pile. But I always ended up putting it back, that is until Logan read it and talked about how great it was. Then, I went a bought it and could not agree more! It was an awesome read with great characters, I love the way the Aviators relate to their Dragons. I guess if a hatchling dragon chose to speak to me and allowed me to put a harness on him I would form a pretty tight bond as well. The alternate history part is interesting enough to keep you involved with the story too. Can you imagine living in a world where dragons were part of the "norm" just like dogs and Napoleon?? Awesome premise, and great characters that leave you feeling for their plights will keep me hooked, good thing there are about 5 more that I know of. Long Live Cpt. Will Laurence and Temeraire !!!!