Eve Langlais' Training my Human is a delightful romp through a world where fantasy meets the mundane, and the result is both hilarious and heartwarming. This novel is a unique blend of humor, fantasy, and a touch of romance, all wrapped up in a story that challenges the boundaries between human and mythical creature relationships.

The premise of the book is both whimsical and intriguing. Our protagonist, a tattoo artist with a penchant for the unconventional, finds herself in an extraordinary situation when a seemingly ordinary lava rock turns out to be a dragon egg. The dragon that hatches is not just any dragon; he is a talking, ambitious creature with dreams of world domination. This setup provides a fertile ground for comedy, as the dragon's grandiose plans are juxtaposed with the everyday realities of life.

Langlais excels in character development, particularly in the dynamic between the protagonist and her dragon. The dragon, with his imperious attitude and disdain for human norms, is a standout character. His voice is distinct, filled with a mix of arrogance and naivety that is both endearing and amusing. The dragon's perspective, which is interspersed throughout the narrative, adds depth to the story, allowing readers to see the world through his eyes. His disdain for being treated like a mere pet and his insistence on being revered as a mighty dragon provide much of the book's humor.

The protagonist, on the other hand, is a relatable and strong-willed character. Her initial shock and subsequent acceptance of her new reality are portrayed with a light touch, making her journey both believable and engaging. Her interactions with the dragon are filled with witty banter, showcasing Langlais' talent for dialogue. The protagonist's growth is evident as she navigates the challenges of keeping her dragon safe from those who would exploit him. Her resourcefulness and determination are admirable, and her relationship with the dragon evolves from one of reluctant caretaker to a more symbiotic partnership.

The theme of freedom versus control is central to the narrative. The dragon's desire to rule and the protagonist's need to protect him create a tension that drives the story forward. This theme is explored with humor and insight, as the dragon learns that true power comes not from domination but from understanding and cooperation. The protagonist, in turn, learns to balance her independence with her responsibilities, both to her dragon and to herself.

Another significant theme is the idea of identity and belonging. The dragon, despite his bravado, is a creature out of place in the human world. His struggle to assert his identity and find his place is mirrored by the protagonist's own journey of self-discovery. This parallel adds a layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a comedic fantasy.

The romantic subplot with Maddox, the hunky pet shop owner, adds an additional layer of complexity to the story. While the romance is not the central focus, it provides a nice counterbalance to the fantastical elements. Maddox is a well-drawn character, whose practicality and warmth make him a perfect foil for the dragon's flamboyance. The chemistry between him and the protagonist is palpable, and their relationship develops naturally over the course of the book.

Langlais' writing style is engaging and accessible, with a flair for comedic timing. Her ability to blend humor with fantasy elements is reminiscent of authors like Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams, though her focus on character-driven storytelling sets her apart. The pacing is brisk, with enough twists and turns to keep readers hooked from start to finish.

Overall, Training my Human is a charming and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of light-hearted fantasy and those who enjoy stories about unlikely friendships. Langlais has crafted a world that is both familiar and fantastical, populated with characters that are as memorable as they are lovable. The book's blend of humor, heart, and adventure makes it a standout in the genre.

For readers looking for a story that combines the whimsy of a dragon tale with the relatability of modern life, Training my Human is a must-read. It is a testament to Langlais' skill as a storyteller that she can take such an outlandish premise and turn it into a story that is both meaningful and immensely enjoyable.