Alex Neptune, Dragon Thief: Book 1

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I loved the subtle chosen one vibes and how Alex’s fear had kept him from realising his potential and how he takes steps to manage this, all whilst doing some very scary things like facing the villainous Raze Callis (excellent villain name btw). Recruiting his tech-genius best friend Zoey, legend-lover Anil, a sharp-shooting octopus, four acrobatic otters and a thieving seagull, Alex plots a heist to break the dragon out. And suddenly discovers the power of the ocean at his fingertips…

Appearance - A snake-like body with fins. Biologically makes sense, but it would then also make sense to call it Water Serpent. The head was at least somewhat faithful (3/10).Obviously special mention has to be made of the animal characters. The otters were just adorable, the thieving seagull was very amusing, and Kraken the blue octopus was just wonderful! I loved it! I thought it was a rich and exciting story, with a wonderfully creative and magical blend of folklore and relatable crises. And I badly want my own water-dragon.' - LD Lapinski, author of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency

Alex and Zoey have been testing the water of Haven, trying to prove that it's being polluted by a new building on the seafront. Called The Station, no-one knows what goes on in there. What they are sure of, is that their vain, greedy Mayor has something to do with it.A ship made of trash and being spearheaded by a pirate is trying to find the missing dragon's egg, and they think it's still in their town. There is a new member in their small group, one who comes bearing news of the plans of the pirate. The long-awaited return of dragon-o-meter will have a look at the Water Dragon, the star of the book's cover. Some spoilers ahead. Size - While the Water Dragon is in a diminished energy-saving-mode size that can fit easily inside an ice-cream van for most of the story, we'll be assessing its size based on the final form when it was returned to fuller (if not full) power. This means while it is possible the bay's shape was indeed like that because the Water Dragon took a bite out of it (leaving it with a 7 or potential 8), the climax size is roughly the size of the boat/ship of the villain. Which isn't huge in dragon numbers (5/10) Alex Neptune, Pirate Hunter is the second book in the Alex Neptune series by David Owen. This is a pacey adventure with great characters, and a plot that will keep you guessing. There are also lots of laughs to be had through the story.

Alex Neptune follows a kid named Alex and his friends as they attempt to pull off a heist to save a magnificent, yet heavily weakened, mythical water dragon from the clutches of a vindictive poacher. However, with the ocean seemingly wanting to murder Alex with every chance it gets - literally! - things might be tougher to overcome than they seem. A tale of important heists planned by kids and the importance of protecting the ocean and the environment around you. Wow! Well what can I say... a gripping read from start to finish! Alex Neptune - Dragon Thief showcases the ocean in all its glory. Alex Neptune has been scared of the ocean for as long as he could remember. So it's understandable that, when he is drawn to a fluorescent glow above an abandoned aquarium, he is full of fear. Once inside, it becomes apparent that an imprisoned, magical water dragon needs his help. Alex, his best friend Zoey, Anil and his new found ocean friends set about rescuing the water dragon and saving the ocean forever. The dragon left to catch up on its work while keeping in touch with Alex at times. The problems of their little town are not over, though. First of all I have been following David’s work for years and I am so happy that he has tried his hand at children’s/MG as well as YA - and that this book looks to be blowing up in a good way!

About David Owen

This is bound to be a great hit with children, especially those who like me loved book one, Alex Neptune: Dragon Thief! Alex has always feared the sea, and he soon learns the reason why. It is all wrapped up in the history of the town and a mythical dragon. Tension builds as a rescue plan is put together and then launched. Things going wrong add to the a reader's excitement, all while an environmental string weaves through the story - The ocean environment has been spoiled for financial gain of a few. I loved this story and can't recommend it enough. The adventure, humour and magic will hook all readers and I am sure would be a well-read and loved book in any classroom. The story is perfect for children 9+ (Years 5 and 6). Will there be another one? I hope so. Thank you, David! The new titles – books four and five in the series – Alex Neptune, Zombie Fighter and Alex Neptune, Dragon Champion, are scheduled for publication in 2024. Sarah Stewart, senior commissioning editor acquired world rights to these two titles in a two-book deal from Ella Kahn at Diamond, Kahn & Woods. The connection between Alex and the water dragon was precious and because we know there’s going to be a sequel I hope to see that develop and it would be awesome if they got a name.