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Jane Austen's Dragons #3
Netherfield: Rogue Dragon
Elizabeth Bennet thought she was prepared to do anything to make the Dragon Conclave accept her beloved young dragon Pemberley into the Blue Order, but she had not anticipated it would leave her banished from her ancestral home and betrothed to none other than Mr. Darcy. But before Elizabeth and Darcy wed, they must find a dangerous rogue dragon before it provokes a war amongst the dragons and brings the fragile peace between dragons and mankind to a catastrophic end.
Nothing written in the annals of dragon lore has prepared Elizabeth to manage a dragon not governed by the Blue Order. Dragons have always loved her, but this one finds her arrogant, selfish and insensitive to others. With only her instincts to guide her, she must convince the rogue of her good intentions before the Blue Order loses patience and decides on more drastic measures.
Called away to the other side of the kingdom, trying to settle the dragons' unrest, Darcy learns the nature of the force poisoning the rogue dragon against Elizabeth. One nearer and dearer than they could have imagined.
Can Elizabeth and Darcy convince with rogue dragon to cooperate before darker forces turn it against them, without destroying the fragile bonds uniting the couple?
Nothing written in the annals of dragon lore has prepared Elizabeth to manage a dragon not governed by the Blue Order. Dragons have always loved her, but this one finds her arrogant, selfish and insensitive to others. With only her instincts to guide her, she must convince the rogue of her good intentions before the Blue Order loses patience and decides on more drastic measures.
Called away to the other side of the kingdom, trying to settle the dragons' unrest, Darcy learns the nature of the force poisoning the rogue dragon against Elizabeth. One nearer and dearer than they could have imagined.
Can Elizabeth and Darcy convince with rogue dragon to cooperate before darker forces turn it against them, without destroying the fragile bonds uniting the couple?
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2018
About the author
Maria Grace
97 books294 followersSix time BRAG Medallion Honoree, #1 Best-selling Historical Fantasy author Maria Grace has her PhD in Educational Psychology and is a 16-year veteran of the university classroom where she taught courses in human growth and development, learning, test development and counseling. None of which have anything to do with her undergraduate studies in economics/sociology/managerial studies/behavior sciences. She pretends to be a mild-mannered writer/cat-lady, but most of her vacations require helmets and waivers or historical costumes, usually not at the same time.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
May 6, 2018
WOW! Just...
WOW!
The last time I felt this way was after finishing the seventh book in the Harry Potter series. Ms. Grace's trilogy has that same ability to transport the reader into a fantasy world and make it feel very, very real.
If you're looking for a lot of romance, it's likely you'll be disappointed. Don't worry-- Darcy and Elizabeth are still front and center. They're now betrothed to each other, but Darcy hasn't been able to express his feelings to her, despite Walker's insistence that he should do so. A major disagreement arises that makes Elizabeth question whether she can go through with marrying him. They do enjoy a fair amount of kissing. However, their love story takes a back seat to all the dramatic adventure and mystery the two are caught up in, surrounded as they are by dragons and intrigue.
Virtually all the characters (including those of the dragon variety) from the previous two books return. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy start off on the route toward Gretna Green in search of Wickham and Lydia. Elizabeth is at Netherfield, supposedly preparing the estate as a wedding surprise for Jane and Mr. Bingley while they're off on their honeymoon. But what she's really doing is searching for maps and clues to help locate the rogue dragon that seems to be in the area. Longbourn is still off-limits, with both her father and the estate dragon furious at her, mostly because of her refusal to marry Mr. Collins. Mary is betrothed to Mr. Collins instead, as decreed by the Blue Order, and their wedding takes place. Unfortunately, Mr. Collins still doesn't grasp how important it is that he learn to get along with dragons, since he still thinks of them as merely animals without recognizing their intellect.
Meanwhile, an envoy representing the Eastern Dragon Federation is en route to meet with England's Blue Order. The news quickly spreads throughout the country about a possible rogue dragon on the loose, creating tension among all members of the Order. Leaders of the Order in London become concerned that the envoy could be mistaken for the feared rogue and attacked, which would inevitably lead to all-out dragon war.
SO much develops from these plotlines, which build and build and build before they finally converge. We learn some dragons can read and write. Elizabeth is able to exchange messages with the hidden dragon, with discouraging results. The Order sends Fitzwilliam on what could be a suicide mission. Dragons mate and lay eggs, and we witness dragon chicks hatching, imprinting on new Keepers, which have surprising effects on attitudes and subsequent events. Another Bennet sister disappears and is searched for. Two major dragons get into a fight for dominance. There's a battle between a human and a dragon. A Dragon Conclave is called to determine the fates of a Keeper and a dragon, along with other Order business. Whew! What a wild ride!
I know I mentioned this in my review for one of the previous books, but the characterizations of the dragons are just incredibly vivid. Not only is this true for each dragon species, but each individual dragon is different from the others, as well. April (Elizabeth's dragon companion) has a personality quite unlike Heather and Phoenix even though they're all fairy dragons, for example.
The writing immerses the reader completely. Now that I've finished, I can think of a number of Recency rules that are stomped on, mostly of the lack-of-proper-chaperoning variety. I didn't care a whit as I was reading because I just needed to know what would happen next. And with all these dragons and conversations about dragons going on, you'd think there'd be more dragon-deaf witnesses (servants? family members? travelers? hunters?) getting caught in the middle besides Mr. Collins, but they're as absent and/or clueless as Muggles in a world full of wizards. Just as wizards have their spells, dragons have their "persuasion" to keep their presence a big secret.
I was a little disappointed near the end at Elizabeth's comparison of events to her "fairy stories," which had its usual negative effect of jolting me out of full immersion in the book for a moment. Considering the overall excellence of the rest, though, I have to forgive the author.
I'd give this more than 5 stars if I could!
WOW!
The last time I felt this way was after finishing the seventh book in the Harry Potter series. Ms. Grace's trilogy has that same ability to transport the reader into a fantasy world and make it feel very, very real.
If you're looking for a lot of romance, it's likely you'll be disappointed. Don't worry-- Darcy and Elizabeth are still front and center. They're now betrothed to each other, but Darcy hasn't been able to express his feelings to her, despite Walker's insistence that he should do so. A major disagreement arises that makes Elizabeth question whether she can go through with marrying him. They do enjoy a fair amount of kissing. However, their love story takes a back seat to all the dramatic adventure and mystery the two are caught up in, surrounded as they are by dragons and intrigue.
Virtually all the characters (including those of the dragon variety) from the previous two books return. Colonel Fitzwilliam and Darcy start off on the route toward Gretna Green in search of Wickham and Lydia. Elizabeth is at Netherfield, supposedly preparing the estate as a wedding surprise for Jane and Mr. Bingley while they're off on their honeymoon. But what she's really doing is searching for maps and clues to help locate the rogue dragon that seems to be in the area. Longbourn is still off-limits, with both her father and the estate dragon furious at her, mostly because of her refusal to marry Mr. Collins. Mary is betrothed to Mr. Collins instead, as decreed by the Blue Order, and their wedding takes place. Unfortunately, Mr. Collins still doesn't grasp how important it is that he learn to get along with dragons, since he still thinks of them as merely animals without recognizing their intellect.
Meanwhile, an envoy representing the Eastern Dragon Federation is en route to meet with England's Blue Order. The news quickly spreads throughout the country about a possible rogue dragon on the loose, creating tension among all members of the Order. Leaders of the Order in London become concerned that the envoy could be mistaken for the feared rogue and attacked, which would inevitably lead to all-out dragon war.
SO much develops from these plotlines, which build and build and build before they finally converge. We learn some dragons can read and write. Elizabeth is able to exchange messages with the hidden dragon, with discouraging results. The Order sends Fitzwilliam on what could be a suicide mission. Dragons mate and lay eggs, and we witness dragon chicks hatching, imprinting on new Keepers, which have surprising effects on attitudes and subsequent events. Another Bennet sister disappears and is searched for. Two major dragons get into a fight for dominance. There's a battle between a human and a dragon. A Dragon Conclave is called to determine the fates of a Keeper and a dragon, along with other Order business. Whew! What a wild ride!
I know I mentioned this in my review for one of the previous books, but the characterizations of the dragons are just incredibly vivid. Not only is this true for each dragon species, but each individual dragon is different from the others, as well. April (Elizabeth's dragon companion) has a personality quite unlike Heather and Phoenix even though they're all fairy dragons, for example.
The writing immerses the reader completely. Now that I've finished, I can think of a number of Recency rules that are stomped on, mostly of the lack-of-proper-chaperoning variety. I didn't care a whit as I was reading because I just needed to know what would happen next. And with all these dragons and conversations about dragons going on, you'd think there'd be more dragon-deaf witnesses (servants? family members? travelers? hunters?) getting caught in the middle besides Mr. Collins, but they're as absent and/or clueless as Muggles in a world full of wizards. Just as wizards have their spells, dragons have their "persuasion" to keep their presence a big secret.
I was a little disappointed near the end at Elizabeth's comparison of events to her "fairy stories," which had its usual negative effect of jolting me out of full immersion in the book for a moment. Considering the overall excellence of the rest, though, I have to forgive the author.
I'd give this more than 5 stars if I could!
May 18, 2018
Excellent...Totally unique in the world of JAFF variations.
I have read the first two books in this series and have followed along as WIP chapters were posted by the author. I have to admit that I felt a need to go back and reread as there are a numbers of dragon characters who each have their own behaviors and place both due to the type of dragon they are and their relationship to the human world.
As Debbie B. said although we begin this story with the Blue Order's mandates in place as to who will marry who, who becomes Longbourn's keeper and how dictates will be looked at as there is now a suspicion that not all estates, their dragons and their keepers are following the rules, there is little romance between Darcy and Elizabeth being described. Oh, there are several letters back and forth which show a warming relationship and we do find Darcy providing shelter and comfort in his arms when Elizabeth breaks down under pressure. However the main premise here is all about the rogue dragon.
Elizabeth's unique role is highlighted again as she not only uses written histories about dragons but also delves into husbandry and any other source to be prepared for dragons' laying eggs and then also in attempting to find and understand the rogue dragon named Netherfield. "He" has stated up front that he doesn't like Elizabeth. She cannot fathom this. One thing she has always been confident in is that she has an affinity to relate to and understand dragons.
I did love how Mr. Collins and the colonel reacted to being present during a hatching. Lovely. Mr. Bennet's relationship with Elizabeth has deteriorated and he places all the blame on her. Longbourn has cut ties with her and refuses to allow her to visit on "his estate". That relationship was of great interest in this story and we read of how Elizabeth learns to humble herself and apologize for a misunderstanding, which in itself sent the story in another direction.
We learn that dragons from the continent have a different understanding about rules and we ponder how the Blue Order will react to that: accepting or punishing acts outside their treaty.
I have great admiration for this author. She put a lot of research into dragon lore and also gave us outside materials for background for this tale and for understanding each dragon, its physical descriptions and characteristics. There is a lot to absorb. I found it fascinating but at the same time know that it is a subject I should reread and study to fully appreciate the world of dragons and JAFF.
I have read the first two books in this series and have followed along as WIP chapters were posted by the author. I have to admit that I felt a need to go back and reread as there are a numbers of dragon characters who each have their own behaviors and place both due to the type of dragon they are and their relationship to the human world.
As Debbie B. said although we begin this story with the Blue Order's mandates in place as to who will marry who, who becomes Longbourn's keeper and how dictates will be looked at as there is now a suspicion that not all estates, their dragons and their keepers are following the rules, there is little romance between Darcy and Elizabeth being described. Oh, there are several letters back and forth which show a warming relationship and we do find Darcy providing shelter and comfort in his arms when Elizabeth breaks down under pressure. However the main premise here is all about the rogue dragon.
Elizabeth's unique role is highlighted again as she not only uses written histories about dragons but also delves into husbandry and any other source to be prepared for dragons' laying eggs and then also in attempting to find and understand the rogue dragon named Netherfield. "He" has stated up front that he doesn't like Elizabeth. She cannot fathom this. One thing she has always been confident in is that she has an affinity to relate to and understand dragons.
I did love how Mr. Collins and the colonel reacted to being present during a hatching. Lovely. Mr. Bennet's relationship with Elizabeth has deteriorated and he places all the blame on her. Longbourn has cut ties with her and refuses to allow her to visit on "his estate". That relationship was of great interest in this story and we read of how Elizabeth learns to humble herself and apologize for a misunderstanding, which in itself sent the story in another direction.
We learn that dragons from the continent have a different understanding about rules and we ponder how the Blue Order will react to that: accepting or punishing acts outside their treaty.
I have great admiration for this author. She put a lot of research into dragon lore and also gave us outside materials for background for this tale and for understanding each dragon, its physical descriptions and characteristics. There is a lot to absorb. I found it fascinating but at the same time know that it is a subject I should reread and study to fully appreciate the world of dragons and JAFF.
March 21, 2019
Hurray! A very strong conclusion to an excellent series! (Trilogy? Does the prequel count? Quartet?)
I have mulled a lot over how to review this one and I just don't know how to approach it. A lot happens and my feelings towards the book changed depending where it was at. Mostly, though, I was continually impressed by the author's world building and characters. Though the story covers quite a bit of ground wrapping up adventures and even adding a few more, it never feels rushed or confused. Everything came across well-thought out and nuanced. Some behaviors felt really extreme but mostly it all flowed well and even irrational behavior made sense. At least, it felt in character and like irrational behavior one would expect from the character, not something out of left field.
The author has finally given up on extensive P&P quotes and it improves the book immensely. I still inwardly flinched every time someone said, "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth..." but that was about it. Hurrah!
The dragons in this book totally rocked and really define why I love this whole series. I'm feel less enamored with their human counterparts. While Elizabeth manages to lose some of her sickly-sweet perfection with some serious attitude (much to the book's improvement), Darcy remains basically spotless and sometimes put me to sleep with his overt goodness. I could ignore it while he traveled (and I really love the letters he exchanged with Elizabeth), but as soon as the couple reunited the romantic tension petered out and I found myself ambivalent at best towards their relationship.
However! Dragon politics, dragon eggs, kidnapping by dragons...it is all here and totally fun. If you enjoyed the first two, you'll love this conclusion.
I have mulled a lot over how to review this one and I just don't know how to approach it. A lot happens and my feelings towards the book changed depending where it was at. Mostly, though, I was continually impressed by the author's world building and characters. Though the story covers quite a bit of ground wrapping up adventures and even adding a few more, it never feels rushed or confused. Everything came across well-thought out and nuanced. Some behaviors felt really extreme but mostly it all flowed well and even irrational behavior made sense. At least, it felt in character and like irrational behavior one would expect from the character, not something out of left field.
The author has finally given up on extensive P&P quotes and it improves the book immensely. I still inwardly flinched every time someone said, "Dearest, loveliest Elizabeth..." but that was about it. Hurrah!
The dragons in this book totally rocked and really define why I love this whole series. I'm feel less enamored with their human counterparts. While Elizabeth manages to lose some of her sickly-sweet perfection with some serious attitude (much to the book's improvement), Darcy remains basically spotless and sometimes put me to sleep with his overt goodness. I could ignore it while he traveled (and I really love the letters he exchanged with Elizabeth), but as soon as the couple reunited the romantic tension petered out and I found myself ambivalent at best towards their relationship.
However! Dragon politics, dragon eggs, kidnapping by dragons...it is all here and totally fun. If you enjoyed the first two, you'll love this conclusion.
May 6, 2018
“No, I would not want to live in a world without dragons…
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon: 5-stars
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail: 5-stars
Book 3: Netherfield: Rogue Dragon: 5-stars
“Dragons and legends… It would have been difficult for any man not to want to fight beside a dragon.” –Patricia Briggs, Dragon Blood
Wow!! OMG!! Did I say wow yet? WOW! This was the conclusion to the trilogy and I am sad to see it end and yet… it had to end. I loved the way Maria Grace concluded this story. OMG! For someone just discovering this book… you have to know that it is not a stand-a-lone book. I would not attempt starting with this book… it would be best to read books 1&2. There is so much background information that it would be hard to understand the hierarchy involved in the dragon conclave and ruling parties.
“My armor is like tenfold shields, my teeth are swords, my claws spears, the shock of my tail a thunderbolt, my wings a hurricane, and my breath death!” –J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
I threw in the above quote simply because I like Tolkein and it fit this dragon story. It also sounds like something that Netherfield would say. I liked Netherfield’s story and at times felt for him.
This story was brilliant and mind blowing in how Maria Grace created a world where ‘there be dragons.’ The writing style was amazing, the universe/world building was completely believable and the characterization was similar to canon. Well, as similar as you can when you have Jane Austen’s characters interacting with dragons. I thought it would be silly. It was not… in any way, form or fashion. The characters were perfectly believable. I loved this series. I followed this third story on line as a WIP [work-in-progress] and couldn’t wait until it launched. I was so excited when I got my pre-order notice and then, when it launched, I was preparing for bed… forget that. I started reading it immediately.
This quote is for people who love dragons… “No, I would not want to live in a world without dragons, as I would not want to live in a world without magic, for that is a world without mystery, and that is a world without faith.” –R.A. Salvatore, Streams of Silver
That quote would include Darcy and Elizabeth. They loved dragons and it showed in their every action. Even the subconscious ones. Elizabeth was a wonder even in the dragon community. They recognized her as a special human and tolerated her when they wouldn’t anyone else. Amazing. I loved that part because we like Elizabeth too. That created just the right amount of angst as she struggled between the species. She wasn’t a dragon but identified with them. She was human but was misunderstood at every turn as her thinking was skewed toward dragons. Simply put, she didn’t fit in either world. Bless her heart. We felt her pain as she was rejected so many times because of her abilities to think and act like a dragon. However, Darcy understood and loved her for it.
Collins: “I’m not so much a dragon slayer, more a dragon annoyer – I’m a dragon irritater.” –Craig Ferguson
Collins was put in his place in book 2 where he and Mary were betrothed by decree of the Blue Order. He simply did not have a clue and was running amuck, almost started a dragon war and was nearly eaten for his sins. The Blue Order was not impressed with him and didn’t tolerate his foolishness. Mary was little better and she most definitely should have known better. Bennet should have done a better job of training her, but then he thought he had a contingency plan in place. Well, you know what they say about best laid plans. He was also taken aback by the decree of the Blue Order. Well, what did you expect.
The ending was simply amazing. OMG! It would be a spoiler to describe anything of the amazing… em… well... I can’t say. Just read the entire series. You won’t regret it. But… you first have to believe that ‘there be dragons.’
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon: 5-stars
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail: 5-stars
Book 3: Netherfield: Rogue Dragon: 5-stars
“Dragons and legends… It would have been difficult for any man not to want to fight beside a dragon.” –Patricia Briggs, Dragon Blood
Wow!! OMG!! Did I say wow yet? WOW! This was the conclusion to the trilogy and I am sad to see it end and yet… it had to end. I loved the way Maria Grace concluded this story. OMG! For someone just discovering this book… you have to know that it is not a stand-a-lone book. I would not attempt starting with this book… it would be best to read books 1&2. There is so much background information that it would be hard to understand the hierarchy involved in the dragon conclave and ruling parties.
“My armor is like tenfold shields, my teeth are swords, my claws spears, the shock of my tail a thunderbolt, my wings a hurricane, and my breath death!” –J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit
I threw in the above quote simply because I like Tolkein and it fit this dragon story. It also sounds like something that Netherfield would say. I liked Netherfield’s story and at times felt for him.
This story was brilliant and mind blowing in how Maria Grace created a world where ‘there be dragons.’ The writing style was amazing, the universe/world building was completely believable and the characterization was similar to canon. Well, as similar as you can when you have Jane Austen’s characters interacting with dragons. I thought it would be silly. It was not… in any way, form or fashion. The characters were perfectly believable. I loved this series. I followed this third story on line as a WIP [work-in-progress] and couldn’t wait until it launched. I was so excited when I got my pre-order notice and then, when it launched, I was preparing for bed… forget that. I started reading it immediately.
This quote is for people who love dragons… “No, I would not want to live in a world without dragons, as I would not want to live in a world without magic, for that is a world without mystery, and that is a world without faith.” –R.A. Salvatore, Streams of Silver
That quote would include Darcy and Elizabeth. They loved dragons and it showed in their every action. Even the subconscious ones. Elizabeth was a wonder even in the dragon community. They recognized her as a special human and tolerated her when they wouldn’t anyone else. Amazing. I loved that part because we like Elizabeth too. That created just the right amount of angst as she struggled between the species. She wasn’t a dragon but identified with them. She was human but was misunderstood at every turn as her thinking was skewed toward dragons. Simply put, she didn’t fit in either world. Bless her heart. We felt her pain as she was rejected so many times because of her abilities to think and act like a dragon. However, Darcy understood and loved her for it.
Collins: “I’m not so much a dragon slayer, more a dragon annoyer – I’m a dragon irritater.” –Craig Ferguson
Collins was put in his place in book 2 where he and Mary were betrothed by decree of the Blue Order. He simply did not have a clue and was running amuck, almost started a dragon war and was nearly eaten for his sins. The Blue Order was not impressed with him and didn’t tolerate his foolishness. Mary was little better and she most definitely should have known better. Bennet should have done a better job of training her, but then he thought he had a contingency plan in place. Well, you know what they say about best laid plans. He was also taken aback by the decree of the Blue Order. Well, what did you expect.
The ending was simply amazing. OMG! It would be a spoiler to describe anything of the amazing… em… well... I can’t say. Just read the entire series. You won’t regret it. But… you first have to believe that ‘there be dragons.’
October 2, 2018
"If the country fell into dragon war, everyone had so very much to lose...It all fell to her to find a way to resolve the matter without bloodshed - warm or cold." (quote from the book)
Prepare yourself for the thrilling conclusion of this amazing trilogy...read the first two books in the series first. Brush up on your dragon lore for there be dragons lurking within. Danger is ever close at hand as you follow Elizabeth in finding the rogue dragon and new ones keep popping up or being born. Darcy and Fitzwilliam are off searching for Wickham and Lydia and trying to calm other dragon keepers and their dragons. Be amazed at Elizabeth's ability to understand and communicate with these very opinionated dragons and hold yourself back from wanting to take Mr. Collins by the throat or even Mr. Bennet for that matter. The tension is high and the odds are not in their favour. But there are some wonderful nuggets of imprinting that will warm your heart and wishing you could have a dragon friend for your own.
And to Ms. Grace, more please? You just can't leave us with that epilogue...I see another story about a certain young lady and her journey north.
March 4, 2020
The arc of this trilogy was at its zenith at the very end of the previous book, Longbourn, and that carries forward into the beginning of Netherfield. The crisis point is nearing when the least little thing will set off a dragon war or end the treaty between dragons and humans in England. Elizabeth is also experiencing her own personal catastrophe when she finds herself in a forced engagement, disowned by her family’s dragon and nearly abandoned by her family even while several are depending on her to somehow find her way. All the markings of a final book, right?
In the first two books, Elizabeth shines with her knowledge and intuition when it comes to dragons and she’s not half-bad reading people, but the gal has serious blindspots when it comes to certain people and certain dragons. The foreshadowing was taking things to a personal touch point when one little match was going to set it all off. Elizabeth is dogmatic about Longbourn’s guilt and is venomously angry when she is not consulted about a way to handle the rogue dragon. Several people try to get her to step back, check her emotions and her ego. She has come a long way through the books, but she has to hit rock bottom before the real growth could happen.
Elizabeth wasn’t the only obstinate character nor the only one who had some serious growing to do- her father, her sister Mary, her cousin Collins, and whew yeah, Longbourn the stubborn family dragon. It made for some crusty encounters. Oh, and let’s not forget the most stubborn and outlandish of them all- Lydia, Elizabeth’s spoilt brat youngest sister! I really do wish a dragon had eaten her at several points- her and Collins though yeah, I softened a little on that by the end.
But, as many people as struggled with such traits and emotions, it was lovely to see Darcy has been coming into his own and being the man Elizabeth needs him to be and the human who their dragon friends can depend on.
Speaking of dragon friends, it was fabulous getting back in Maria Grace’s dragon world. Walker and Cait the cockatrices, April the fairy dragon, the fun new puck who hoards bunnies of all things, and the great dragons like Longbourn. I love that in Jane Austen’s Dragon series the dragons make up most of the cast of characters and they are front and center with their own quirks, personalities, and conflicts right alongside their human counterparts.
The mystery of the Netherfield property and the rogue was suspenseful and built up nicely with a riveting climax scene.
Benjamin Fife is the dragon guru. He is a good narrator as a whole, but he shines when he takes up one of the many tricky dragon voices. From curmudgeonly Longbourn to a newly hatched cockatrice (so cute is our Earl by the by), a French dragon and a far eastern one. He was challenged through the whole series, but never so much as with Netherfield Rogue Dragon. I was captivated and would definitely listen to his work again.
The denouement cinched up this trilogy so well. No threads were left dangling and yet, there is always room for more stories from this world. The worldbuilding of dragons meshed with a real human historical era was sensational and I would gladly read/listen to more. I can heartily recommend the series to those who want a solid historical fantasy romance with good character growth and great character development layered with a growing suspenseful plot.
My thanks to Jess at Audio Bookworm Promotion for the opportunity to listen in exchange for an honest review.
In the first two books, Elizabeth shines with her knowledge and intuition when it comes to dragons and she’s not half-bad reading people, but the gal has serious blindspots when it comes to certain people and certain dragons. The foreshadowing was taking things to a personal touch point when one little match was going to set it all off. Elizabeth is dogmatic about Longbourn’s guilt and is venomously angry when she is not consulted about a way to handle the rogue dragon. Several people try to get her to step back, check her emotions and her ego. She has come a long way through the books, but she has to hit rock bottom before the real growth could happen.
Elizabeth wasn’t the only obstinate character nor the only one who had some serious growing to do- her father, her sister Mary, her cousin Collins, and whew yeah, Longbourn the stubborn family dragon. It made for some crusty encounters. Oh, and let’s not forget the most stubborn and outlandish of them all- Lydia, Elizabeth’s spoilt brat youngest sister! I really do wish a dragon had eaten her at several points- her and Collins though yeah, I softened a little on that by the end.
But, as many people as struggled with such traits and emotions, it was lovely to see Darcy has been coming into his own and being the man Elizabeth needs him to be and the human who their dragon friends can depend on.
Speaking of dragon friends, it was fabulous getting back in Maria Grace’s dragon world. Walker and Cait the cockatrices, April the fairy dragon, the fun new puck who hoards bunnies of all things, and the great dragons like Longbourn. I love that in Jane Austen’s Dragon series the dragons make up most of the cast of characters and they are front and center with their own quirks, personalities, and conflicts right alongside their human counterparts.
The mystery of the Netherfield property and the rogue was suspenseful and built up nicely with a riveting climax scene.
Benjamin Fife is the dragon guru. He is a good narrator as a whole, but he shines when he takes up one of the many tricky dragon voices. From curmudgeonly Longbourn to a newly hatched cockatrice (so cute is our Earl by the by), a French dragon and a far eastern one. He was challenged through the whole series, but never so much as with Netherfield Rogue Dragon. I was captivated and would definitely listen to his work again.
The denouement cinched up this trilogy so well. No threads were left dangling and yet, there is always room for more stories from this world. The worldbuilding of dragons meshed with a real human historical era was sensational and I would gladly read/listen to more. I can heartily recommend the series to those who want a solid historical fantasy romance with good character growth and great character development layered with a growing suspenseful plot.
My thanks to Jess at Audio Bookworm Promotion for the opportunity to listen in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2018
Satisfying ending to the trilogy
All the threads of the story are tidied up. Everyone, it seems, gets a dragon companion, and Wickham is taken care of in a satisfying way. What more could we want?
Worth every penny.
All the threads of the story are tidied up. Everyone, it seems, gets a dragon companion, and Wickham is taken care of in a satisfying way. What more could we want?
Worth every penny.
January 15, 2022
This was such a fun series. I hope we get a second set of three books in this P & P & D world. Loved it! Plus, Talia!
Reread: I would love to see what happens in the future with Lydia and E's new life.
Reread: Love it still.
Reread: I would love to see what happens in the future with Lydia and E's new life.
Reread: Love it still.
May 5, 2018
WOW!
What a rush! It was a great series with fascinating characters, well written. I'll be reading these three books again.
What a rush! It was a great series with fascinating characters, well written. I'll be reading these three books again.
February 18, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Maria Grace. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
I said this in the other review and I’m going to say it again: I really appreciate that Grace ended up extending this story into a trilogy rather than keeping it all condensed into one book. I feel like that was a huge advantage to her, and really allowed us to not only get the feel of the classic novel by Austen, but feel her own spin on the story. Which I personally feel like it made it that much more enjoyable for me, coming from someone who still hasn’t read the original Austen novel and probably won’t for a long time.
In this case, we have Darcy and Elizabeth trying to find out where Wickham took Lydia. Now that I think about it, I feel like the original storyline really should have been split into three parts, and this feels like the third act of a play or something. So yeah, it only makes sense that this would be where we need to be for the third novel. Can I just say that in every single adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, even if there’s dragons involved, Wickham is the freaking worst? I know he’s supposed to be, but seriously. I have never liked him or how “smooth” he likes to come across and how he was able to trick people into thinking he was a good guy.
Anyway, I am also glad that the romance of the novel isn’t at the forefront in this one, because this one is more dramatic and Elizabeth and Darcy need to find Lydia before something bad happens. Because we know that Wickham is going to do something terrible to get back at both Elizabeth and Darcy at this point. So I would say that a lot of the action is going to be pretty crazy in this one, especially with the dragons in play.
I am so glad that Fife was able to continue being the narrator for this series, and I think that he was a great person to do this. I am pretty sure that I said this before, but I really think that Fife did a great job, especially with the dragons.
I said this in the other review and I’m going to say it again: I really appreciate that Grace ended up extending this story into a trilogy rather than keeping it all condensed into one book. I feel like that was a huge advantage to her, and really allowed us to not only get the feel of the classic novel by Austen, but feel her own spin on the story. Which I personally feel like it made it that much more enjoyable for me, coming from someone who still hasn’t read the original Austen novel and probably won’t for a long time.
In this case, we have Darcy and Elizabeth trying to find out where Wickham took Lydia. Now that I think about it, I feel like the original storyline really should have been split into three parts, and this feels like the third act of a play or something. So yeah, it only makes sense that this would be where we need to be for the third novel. Can I just say that in every single adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, even if there’s dragons involved, Wickham is the freaking worst? I know he’s supposed to be, but seriously. I have never liked him or how “smooth” he likes to come across and how he was able to trick people into thinking he was a good guy.
Anyway, I am also glad that the romance of the novel isn’t at the forefront in this one, because this one is more dramatic and Elizabeth and Darcy need to find Lydia before something bad happens. Because we know that Wickham is going to do something terrible to get back at both Elizabeth and Darcy at this point. So I would say that a lot of the action is going to be pretty crazy in this one, especially with the dragons in play.
I am so glad that Fife was able to continue being the narrator for this series, and I think that he was a great person to do this. I am pretty sure that I said this before, but I really think that Fife did a great job, especially with the dragons.
August 13, 2020
Review published at:
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
The third installment in Maria Grace’s Dragon series picks up right where Longbourn: Dragon Entail left off and it was equally exciting, especially because we are finally introduced to Netherfield, a new Dragon that was unknown until now, and who proved to be one of my favourite characters in the entire series.
Netherfield: Rogue Dragon has more adventure and mystery than the previous books in the series, with kidnappings and secret tunnels making Elizabeth’s life harder, but it also offers the reader more scenes of Darcy and Elizabeth which was something I really appreciated. Even though this fantasy series is not a romance, I do like to have ODC at the center of the stage, and this is what we had in this book where Mr. Darcy comes to Elizabeth’s rescue and offers her his full support. In this third book Elizabeth is lonelier than ever with Longbourn cutting ties with her and finally banning her from the estate, so it is only natural that her fiancé is now the person she goes to for support. But Elizabeth’s relationship with Darcy was not the only reason why I found the the arc of Elizabeth’s and Longbourn’s relationship so interesting. I also liked to see Elizabeth grow as a human being, accepting she may have been wrong and apologising for her mistakes.
Elizabeth was not the only character I liked to see growing in this novel, one of my favourite aspects in this book was the continuing development of Longbourn’s personality and his eventual redemption, I wonder how his relationship with Netherfield will evolve and how Mr. Collins will be able to handle him. Will he ever love Mary as much as he loves Elizabeth?
The Bennet sisters continue to play their role in this story, and Mary in joined by Lydia in this adventure. Unfortunately Lydia is Lydia, so her involvement will only cause trouble, but I liked the way Maria Grace developed the events in which Lydia is present. Jane is another Bennet sister I would like to mention, she is not a favourite of mine, but I found it strange for her to be continuously absent from these stories, and this may be one of the few details that got me thinking.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and the ending Maria Grace gave to this series. It was the perfecting ending and an incredible ride I never expected to enjoy so much. I highly recommend it.
https://frompemberleytomilton.wordpre...
The third installment in Maria Grace’s Dragon series picks up right where Longbourn: Dragon Entail left off and it was equally exciting, especially because we are finally introduced to Netherfield, a new Dragon that was unknown until now, and who proved to be one of my favourite characters in the entire series.
Netherfield: Rogue Dragon has more adventure and mystery than the previous books in the series, with kidnappings and secret tunnels making Elizabeth’s life harder, but it also offers the reader more scenes of Darcy and Elizabeth which was something I really appreciated. Even though this fantasy series is not a romance, I do like to have ODC at the center of the stage, and this is what we had in this book where Mr. Darcy comes to Elizabeth’s rescue and offers her his full support. In this third book Elizabeth is lonelier than ever with Longbourn cutting ties with her and finally banning her from the estate, so it is only natural that her fiancé is now the person she goes to for support. But Elizabeth’s relationship with Darcy was not the only reason why I found the the arc of Elizabeth’s and Longbourn’s relationship so interesting. I also liked to see Elizabeth grow as a human being, accepting she may have been wrong and apologising for her mistakes.
Elizabeth was not the only character I liked to see growing in this novel, one of my favourite aspects in this book was the continuing development of Longbourn’s personality and his eventual redemption, I wonder how his relationship with Netherfield will evolve and how Mr. Collins will be able to handle him. Will he ever love Mary as much as he loves Elizabeth?
The Bennet sisters continue to play their role in this story, and Mary in joined by Lydia in this adventure. Unfortunately Lydia is Lydia, so her involvement will only cause trouble, but I liked the way Maria Grace developed the events in which Lydia is present. Jane is another Bennet sister I would like to mention, she is not a favourite of mine, but I found it strange for her to be continuously absent from these stories, and this may be one of the few details that got me thinking.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and the ending Maria Grace gave to this series. It was the perfecting ending and an incredible ride I never expected to enjoy so much. I highly recommend it.
August 3, 2020
This is the fourth book I have read/listened to by this author and of this series. I’ve enjoyed each one. The melding of Austen’s characters and storyline with the dragon storyline is well done. This, like several other of the books, does not try to follow Austen’s story and merely add in a few words about dragons. The base concept and plot is there, but the alterations and additions the author has made make this a very unique tale.
This is the sixth book I have listened to by this narrator ( Benjamin Fife ). He does well with the accents and female voices. He brings the interactions of the characters to life with the British flair of the time.
The high chipmunk-style voice is interesting to try to understand since I speed up the audio for listening. I’d prefer to listen at 1.6x but can only do 1.4 since the voice is already speed up. But, that’s my choice.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.
Story 4/5
Narration 4/5
This is the sixth book I have listened to by this narrator ( Benjamin Fife ). He does well with the accents and female voices. He brings the interactions of the characters to life with the British flair of the time.
The high chipmunk-style voice is interesting to try to understand since I speed up the audio for listening. I’d prefer to listen at 1.6x but can only do 1.4 since the voice is already speed up. But, that’s my choice.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review.
Please feel free to comment on whether you found my review helpful.
Story 4/5
Narration 4/5
February 14, 2021
After the first and second books l found l wanted to know more about all these wonderful dragons so l read book four which is an introduction to dragons. Boy did that help, it should be book one. I am in love with this addictive series and recommend them. I am fascinated with the dragon court system and l love Elizabeth writing her Modern Dragons book. The narrator does an amazing job, he is one of the top five l have ever listened too. Recommended.
January 1, 2024
Everything is coming to a dramatic head. Elizabeth has fled Longbourn. All is well again with Pemberly. She and Darcy have sorted everything out as well. Just when it seems there couldn't be anything else that could happen, it turns out that there's a rogue dragon in Netherfield. Elizabeth and Darcy are tasked to investigate. They must do so without the assistance of Longbourn as he's forbidden them from entering his territory.
I spent a lot of time doing nothing but listening to this book. I barely even took the time to pause it so I could get up. I had a very Sheldon "I don't need sleep. I need answers." moment. I can't even begin to explain. I couldn't even begin to try to predict everything that was going to go down. I would have been wrong if I did quite frankly. It was insane in the best way possible! I want and need more!!!!
I'm going to be very generic about my assessment of the characters. It's for a good reason. I want anybody who reads the books after reading my review to go into it unbiased. It's amazing how some very loveable characters from the original novel weren't so loveable in this one and the not so loveable ones were at least tolerable. I am not saying everybody was different. Just a select few. My mind was blown at the transformations between the original character and this version. That's all I am willing to say.
I get to gush about Benjamin Fife in another review. I can't get over the amazing talent he has. That and the fact that he's so dedicated to the projects he works on. It's obvious he goes above and beyond what's required of him. It's a very positive thing to me. I'd give him way more than five stars if I could. As it were, he has definitely been added to my auto-buy list. If I see any audiobook narrated by him when I have money, it will be in my library! No questions asked!
This has been a very fun series for me to read. I've really loved the retelling from one of my favorite classics of all time. I said in a previous review that Jane Austen herself would love this retelling. I wasn't just saying that. I actually mean it. If I didn't know better, I'd say that it's possible that the author is a reincarnation of Jane Austen! I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I will also be adding this author to my automatic read list!
I spent a lot of time doing nothing but listening to this book. I barely even took the time to pause it so I could get up. I had a very Sheldon "I don't need sleep. I need answers." moment. I can't even begin to explain. I couldn't even begin to try to predict everything that was going to go down. I would have been wrong if I did quite frankly. It was insane in the best way possible! I want and need more!!!!
I'm going to be very generic about my assessment of the characters. It's for a good reason. I want anybody who reads the books after reading my review to go into it unbiased. It's amazing how some very loveable characters from the original novel weren't so loveable in this one and the not so loveable ones were at least tolerable. I am not saying everybody was different. Just a select few. My mind was blown at the transformations between the original character and this version. That's all I am willing to say.
I get to gush about Benjamin Fife in another review. I can't get over the amazing talent he has. That and the fact that he's so dedicated to the projects he works on. It's obvious he goes above and beyond what's required of him. It's a very positive thing to me. I'd give him way more than five stars if I could. As it were, he has definitely been added to my auto-buy list. If I see any audiobook narrated by him when I have money, it will be in my library! No questions asked!
This has been a very fun series for me to read. I've really loved the retelling from one of my favorite classics of all time. I said in a previous review that Jane Austen herself would love this retelling. I wasn't just saying that. I actually mean it. If I didn't know better, I'd say that it's possible that the author is a reincarnation of Jane Austen! I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I will also be adding this author to my automatic read list!
March 19, 2020
Picking up right where the last book left off, this one takes us on another journey of comedy, romance, and mystery.
In nearly all ways, this book is far superior to the first two.
As I've come to expect, Benjamin Fife gives a phenomenal performance complete with unique, believable voices (even the female ones!) and masterful control of vocal inflections and tempo variations.
This story builds once again on the already fantastic character development, while bringing in yet more new characters that are just as wonderfully drawn.
There is still more development of the dragons, including more new species, which I love. In a lot of ways, the whole world of Dragons in these books in strongly reminiscent of Marie Brennan's Memoirs of Lady Trent series.
I would have enjoyed more development into the Blue Order and just what it is about Elizabeth that makes her so special though.
Although I still feel the development of the emotional bond between Elizabeth and Mr Darcy has been a bit overly sudden, overall the progression of their relationship has been a lot of fun to read.
It was interesting to realize that the Pendragon Accord is limited to only Britain. In this one we meet more than one foreign dragon, and seeing the interactions between them and the local dragons and members of the Blue Order was very interesting.
There are more than a few surprises that come throughout this book, and some really interesting reveals. A few I saw coming, but others I did not, which was really satisfying to read.
Overall the flow of the story is excellent, and the ending comes together brilliantly. It was awesome to finally see an ending, and this one does an excellent job of tying all the various threads together.
I sincerely hope the author does more with this world!
In nearly all ways, this book is far superior to the first two.
As I've come to expect, Benjamin Fife gives a phenomenal performance complete with unique, believable voices (even the female ones!) and masterful control of vocal inflections and tempo variations.
This story builds once again on the already fantastic character development, while bringing in yet more new characters that are just as wonderfully drawn.
There is still more development of the dragons, including more new species, which I love. In a lot of ways, the whole world of Dragons in these books in strongly reminiscent of Marie Brennan's Memoirs of Lady Trent series.
I would have enjoyed more development into the Blue Order and just what it is about Elizabeth that makes her so special though.
Although I still feel the development of the emotional bond between Elizabeth and Mr Darcy has been a bit overly sudden, overall the progression of their relationship has been a lot of fun to read.
It was interesting to realize that the Pendragon Accord is limited to only Britain. In this one we meet more than one foreign dragon, and seeing the interactions between them and the local dragons and members of the Blue Order was very interesting.
There are more than a few surprises that come throughout this book, and some really interesting reveals. A few I saw coming, but others I did not, which was really satisfying to read.
Overall the flow of the story is excellent, and the ending comes together brilliantly. It was awesome to finally see an ending, and this one does an excellent job of tying all the various threads together.
I sincerely hope the author does more with this world!
June 18, 2020
Jane Austen & Dragons
This is book three in the series so if you haven't read the first two books then you'll want to do those first. This is a really fun and entertaining spin on a well loved classic... Just be warned that many key parts of the story have been changed to fit the new narrative, to the point that in some places it really doesn't resemble the original story. Even though a few of the changes really irked me the story on it's own was still a lot of fun and well paced to sufficiently keep me interested and by far was leaps and bounds above Pride & Prejudice vs. Zombies. It's a great combination of Regency Romance and Fantasy. It's a clean read that will appeal to teens to adults. The narrator did a fantastic job and really was a lot of fun to listen to, he has great differentiation in the characters voices and overall acting skills were quite good.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This is book three in the series so if you haven't read the first two books then you'll want to do those first. This is a really fun and entertaining spin on a well loved classic... Just be warned that many key parts of the story have been changed to fit the new narrative, to the point that in some places it really doesn't resemble the original story. Even though a few of the changes really irked me the story on it's own was still a lot of fun and well paced to sufficiently keep me interested and by far was leaps and bounds above Pride & Prejudice vs. Zombies. It's a great combination of Regency Romance and Fantasy. It's a clean read that will appeal to teens to adults. The narrator did a fantastic job and really was a lot of fun to listen to, he has great differentiation in the characters voices and overall acting skills were quite good.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
February 25, 2022
Great ending to a superb series!
Captivating conclusion to a story that was packed with twists and turns, sweet endearing romance, mystery, danger, misunderstandings and a huge dose of pride and prejudice. With, I'm delighted to say, all the quested answers and loose threads neatly tied up in one amply rewarding bow.
The multifaceted characters (person or dragon alike) are absorbing, bursting with fun, witty banter and an individuality that enriches the tale with the power to make you smile, cry, be vexed, sympathise or relate with their many desires, needs and whims.
Truly magical escapism that I highly recommend you enjoy in audio presentation - done so from the very beginning and in order, to really understand and experience Grace's entire Austen meets dragon 'world' in all it's glory.
Furthermore, it's vibrant descriptions, engaging characters and colourfully candid dragons are just screaming to be animated for a mini-tv series/anime, they would transfer beautifully!! Loved it!
Captivating conclusion to a story that was packed with twists and turns, sweet endearing romance, mystery, danger, misunderstandings and a huge dose of pride and prejudice. With, I'm delighted to say, all the quested answers and loose threads neatly tied up in one amply rewarding bow.
The multifaceted characters (person or dragon alike) are absorbing, bursting with fun, witty banter and an individuality that enriches the tale with the power to make you smile, cry, be vexed, sympathise or relate with their many desires, needs and whims.
Truly magical escapism that I highly recommend you enjoy in audio presentation - done so from the very beginning and in order, to really understand and experience Grace's entire Austen meets dragon 'world' in all it's glory.
Furthermore, it's vibrant descriptions, engaging characters and colourfully candid dragons are just screaming to be animated for a mini-tv series/anime, they would transfer beautifully!! Loved it!
February 15, 2023
Хоча в серії вже 11 частин (що мене трішки налякало, коли я її побачила), але перші три книжки умовно можна вважати завершеною трилогією.
Якби в героїв були оригінальні імена, я б поставилися більш скептично до сюжету, але як варіація це читання заслуговує на увагу.
У цьому світі є дракони і їхні доглядачі. Дракони великі, дракони маленькі, дракони загрозливі і ні. Завдяки договору Пендраґона на землях Британії панує регульований мир між драконами і людьми. Головні дракони прив'язані до певних земель, якими керує доглядач з дворянства і дбає про дракона. Одним із таких маєтків є Лонгборн. Серед усього сімейства драконів може чути містер Беннет та дві його доньки: ��лізабет і Мері. Елізабет готова до того, що вона вийде заміж за спадкоємця — невідомого містера Коллінза — і продовжить доглядати за драконом Лонгборном. Вона має надзвичайний талант у розумінні потреб драконів, і вони відповідають їй повагою та любов'ю.
Але ось з Блакитного ордену приходить вказівка: хтось викрав яйце значного дракона і прямує в Гертфордшир. Місцеві члени ордену мають надати допомогу. От тільки комунікація між Дарсі, з володінь якого і викрали яйце, і Беннетами не залагоджується. Обидві сторони намагаються відшукати яйце власними силами, але зрештою їм доводиться об'єднатися. Принаймні Дарсі й Ліззі, які втім не високої про одне одного думки.
Проблем додає невідомий дракон, присутність якого ледь помітна в Незерфілді та Лонгборні, але він має свої цілі, впливаючи на місцевих людей.
Основний акцент книжок — співжиття і комунікація людей та драконів. Велику частку займає конфлікт між Ліззі і Лонгборном, старим драконом, який бажає, щоб вся її увага була присвячена йому. І Ліззі не проти вгамовувати його примхи, вона знає, як з ним впоратися, але зрештою між ними пролягає розкол, після якого життя не може бути таким, як раніше. Після втрати довіри й поваги Ліззі більше не певна, що вона здатна лишатися біля нього. На неї чекає по-справжньому грандіозне життя, де вона може присвятити себе улюбленій справі: спілкуванню з різними драконами, дослідженню їхніх звичок та турботі про них.
Другорядний конфлікт — між Ліззі та містером Беннетом. Це той момент, який мені особисто ��ув трохи неприємним, оскільки їхні стосунки також зазнають удару. Попри те, що містер Беннет залучає Елізабет у більшість своїх справ, він не дає їй належної поваги і часто зневажає її думку. Тому Ліззі має вирватися з його тіні і вторувати власну стежку. Цю лінію підсолоджує підтримка дядька Ґардінера, який на відміну від містера Беннета ясно бачить її потенціал.
Ну, і, звісно, тут є третя значна чоловіча постать — містер Дарсі, який має стати справжнім партнером Ліззі в драконячих та інших справах і поважатиме її.
Книжки ЛОР-орієнтовані, тут є багато домовлянь з драконами, їхніх різновидів та звичок. Люди поділяються на тих, хто можуть чути драконів і тих, хто їх не чує. Останні не знають про їхнє існування, а дракони володіють здатністю навіювання, можуть прикинутися звичайною твариною та переконати людей щось зробити. Ті, хто чують, часто живуть з друзями-драконами, меншими створіннями. Вони справжні друзі: спілкуються зі своїми власниками та допомагають їм. У книгах багато уваги присвячено їхній комунікації, як дракони нагадують своїх власників-друзів, як вони обирають одне одного.
Але ЛОР добре вплетено в сюжет, тут немає нудних затягнутих інфодампів.
Заувага. Ліззі — суперкомпетентна, майже інтуїтивна драконознавиця. Не скажу, що я фан такого типу персонажів, але тут вийшло файно. Єдине, що драконячий елемент трохи недопрацьовує гру з оригіналом. Стосунки Ліззі й Дарсі в площині комедії помилок майже не існують, між ними вимальовується зовсім інша динаміка, але натомість ми отримуємо цікавий погляд на родину Ґардинерів, Джорджіану, Фіцвільяма, містера Коллінза і Мері, а також Вікгема та Лідію.
Тут чимало нових персонажів-драконів, і всі вони абсолютно чарівні. Особисто я фан Волкера — дракона Дарсі. Пемберлі — мила дитинка, і кінець першої частини, де їх з Ліззі роз'єднали, розбив мені серце.
Одним словом, якщо ви шукаєте фентезі про драконів з твістом у бік "Гордості й упередження" (а не навпаки), то ця серія вам має сподобатися. Без масштабних батальних сцен, але різних розслідувань та драконячих інтриг вистачає.
Якби в героїв були оригінальні імена, я б поставилися більш скептично до сюжету, але як варіація це читання заслуговує на увагу.
У цьому світі є дракони і їхні доглядачі. Дракони великі, дракони маленькі, дракони загрозливі і ні. Завдяки договору Пендраґона на землях Британії панує регульований мир між драконами і людьми. Головні дракони прив'язані до певних земель, якими керує доглядач з дворянства і дбає про дракона. Одним із таких маєтків є Лонгборн. Серед усього сімейства драконів може чути містер Беннет та дві його доньки: ��лізабет і Мері. Елізабет готова до того, що вона вийде заміж за спадкоємця — невідомого містера Коллінза — і продовжить доглядати за драконом Лонгборном. Вона має надзвичайний талант у розумінні потреб драконів, і вони відповідають їй повагою та любов'ю.
Але ось з Блакитного ордену приходить вказівка: хтось викрав яйце значного дракона і прямує в Гертфордшир. Місцеві члени ордену мають надати допомогу. От тільки комунікація між Дарсі, з володінь якого і викрали яйце, і Беннетами не залагоджується. Обидві сторони намагаються відшукати яйце власними силами, але зрештою їм доводиться об'єднатися. Принаймні Дарсі й Ліззі, які втім не високої про одне одного думки.
Проблем додає невідомий дракон, присутність якого ледь помітна в Незерфілді та Лонгборні, але він має свої цілі, впливаючи на місцевих людей.
Основний акцент книжок — співжиття і комунікація людей та драконів. Велику частку займає конфлікт між Ліззі і Лонгборном, старим драконом, який бажає, щоб вся її увага була присвячена йому. І Ліззі не проти вгамовувати його примхи, вона знає, як з ним впоратися, але зрештою між ними пролягає розкол, після якого життя не може бути таким, як раніше. Після втрати довіри й поваги Ліззі більше не певна, що вона здатна лишатися біля нього. На неї чекає по-справжньому грандіозне життя, де вона може присвятити себе улюбленій справі: спілкуванню з різними драконами, дослідженню їхніх звичок та турботі про них.
Другорядний конфлікт — між Ліззі та містером Беннетом. Це той момент, який мені особисто ��ув трохи неприємним, оскільки їхні стосунки також зазнають удару. Попри те, що містер Беннет залучає Елізабет у більшість своїх справ, він не дає їй належної поваги і часто зневажає її думку. Тому Ліззі має вирватися з його тіні і вторувати власну стежку. Цю лінію підсолоджує підтримка дядька Ґардінера, який на відміну від містера Беннета ясно бачить її потенціал.
Ну, і, звісно, тут є третя значна чоловіча постать — містер Дарсі, який має стати справжнім партнером Ліззі в драконячих та інших справах і поважатиме її.
Книжки ЛОР-орієнтовані, тут є багато домовлянь з драконами, їхніх різновидів та звичок. Люди поділяються на тих, хто можуть чути драконів і тих, хто їх не чує. Останні не знають про їхнє існування, а дракони володіють здатністю навіювання, можуть прикинутися звичайною твариною та переконати людей щось зробити. Ті, хто чують, часто живуть з друзями-драконами, меншими створіннями. Вони справжні друзі: спілкуються зі своїми власниками та допомагають їм. У книгах багато уваги присвячено їхній комунікації, як дракони нагадують своїх власників-друзів, як вони обирають одне одного.
Але ЛОР добре вплетено в сюжет, тут немає нудних затягнутих інфодампів.
Заувага. Ліззі — суперкомпетентна, майже інтуїтивна драконознавиця. Не скажу, що я фан такого типу персонажів, але тут вийшло файно. Єдине, що драконячий елемент трохи недопрацьовує гру з оригіналом. Стосунки Ліззі й Дарсі в площині комедії помилок майже не існують, між ними вимальовується зовсім інша динаміка, але натомість ми отримуємо цікавий погляд на родину Ґардинерів, Джорджіану, Фіцвільяма, містера Коллінза і Мері, а також Вікгема та Лідію.
Тут чимало нових персонажів-драконів, і всі вони абсолютно чарівні. Особисто я фан Волкера — дракона Дарсі. Пемберлі — мила дитинка, і кінець першої частини, де їх з Ліззі роз'єднали, розбив мені серце.
Одним словом, якщо ви шукаєте фентезі про драконів з твістом у бік "Гордості й упередження" (а не навпаки), то ця серія вам має сподобатися. Без масштабних батальних сцен, але різних розслідувань та драконячих інтриг вистачає.
August 10, 2021
I really love this series! It is creative and clever and well-written. Also an excellent re-imagining of my favourite book - Pride and Prejudice.
This author has done a wonderful job of envisioning her own unique and clever version of the world Elizabeth and Darcy lived in, peopled with dragons of every sort. I think this series does just a marvellous job of staying true to the world and the characters of the original, but still going in a brand new direction, with a plot that is very well-conceived, engaging and charming.
I also loved the small changes the author makes to some of the supporting characters, with the back-story and events that happen to them throughout the series. It is different, but works perfectly within the world these versions of Austen's characters are living in.
Finally, I simply adore the dragons! Truth be told, I have never been much drawn to books about dragons, even though paranormal fiction is my most favourite genre. Dragon stories just never really drew me in . . . until I found this series. These dragons are clever, sneaky, petulant, sweet and adorable by turns and I fell in love with every one of them under the talented writing of Maria Grace! Honestly, the scenes with the dragons were some of my absolute favourite in this book.
I am delighted to have discovered this series, and it is one of the best "re-imagining" of Pride and Prejudice that I've read (and I've read a lot of them!). If you loved Pride and Prejudice, then I highly recommend this series, whether you're already in love with dragons or not. If you are, this series will just charm you, and if you aren't yet in love with dragons, you will be once you read this series!
This author has done a wonderful job of envisioning her own unique and clever version of the world Elizabeth and Darcy lived in, peopled with dragons of every sort. I think this series does just a marvellous job of staying true to the world and the characters of the original, but still going in a brand new direction, with a plot that is very well-conceived, engaging and charming.
I also loved the small changes the author makes to some of the supporting characters, with the back-story and events that happen to them throughout the series. It is different, but works perfectly within the world these versions of Austen's characters are living in.
Finally, I simply adore the dragons! Truth be told, I have never been much drawn to books about dragons, even though paranormal fiction is my most favourite genre. Dragon stories just never really drew me in . . . until I found this series. These dragons are clever, sneaky, petulant, sweet and adorable by turns and I fell in love with every one of them under the talented writing of Maria Grace! Honestly, the scenes with the dragons were some of my absolute favourite in this book.
I am delighted to have discovered this series, and it is one of the best "re-imagining" of Pride and Prejudice that I've read (and I've read a lot of them!). If you loved Pride and Prejudice, then I highly recommend this series, whether you're already in love with dragons or not. If you are, this series will just charm you, and if you aren't yet in love with dragons, you will be once you read this series!
March 18, 2020
Dragons and Jane Austen characters... Amazing mix
I would never have considered mixing a dragon culture with the Pride and Prejudice world. But it blends amazingly well. Often, the Dragon interactions explain the misunderstandings and the culture. I love that Mary ended up with Collins!
The only downside, and it's minor, was having original dialog said by the wrong character or in the wrong context.
Enjoyable and worth your time!
I would never have considered mixing a dragon culture with the Pride and Prejudice world. But it blends amazingly well. Often, the Dragon interactions explain the misunderstandings and the culture. I love that Mary ended up with Collins!
The only downside, and it's minor, was having original dialog said by the wrong character or in the wrong context.
Enjoyable and worth your time!
February 17, 2020
We’ve come to the end of the saga entangling dragons with the original Pride and Prejudice (except for the prequel, A Proper Introduction to Dragons) and all comes to a head, potentially a more concrete meeting of the minds between humans and dragons. First, though, there are many threads to follow, not least of which is the mystery surrounding a rogue dragon. This particular dragon is unknown to both societies and, thus, not governed by the all-important treaty that supports their co-existence.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth has been banned from Longbourn, partly because she insulted the petulant and entitled landed dragon of the same name by refusing to marry Mr. Collins to whom the estate is entailed. Lydia has apparently run off with Wickham and is being chased by Darcy and Fitzwilliam, someone is involved in smuggling and leaving poisonous dragon venom where it can endanger others and an emissary from another dragon federation has gone missing. Add to that the trials of tending to the baby Pemberley and the somewhat tepid romance between Elizabeth and Darcy and the scenario is perfect for a lively adventure.
Once again, Mr. Fife wowed me with his narration, most especially his dragon voices (my favorites are April, Longbourn and Walker), and he certainly had great material to work with from Ms. Grace. I suspect I’ll be listening to this trilogy again, more than once 😉
Meanwhile, Elizabeth has been banned from Longbourn, partly because she insulted the petulant and entitled landed dragon of the same name by refusing to marry Mr. Collins to whom the estate is entailed. Lydia has apparently run off with Wickham and is being chased by Darcy and Fitzwilliam, someone is involved in smuggling and leaving poisonous dragon venom where it can endanger others and an emissary from another dragon federation has gone missing. Add to that the trials of tending to the baby Pemberley and the somewhat tepid romance between Elizabeth and Darcy and the scenario is perfect for a lively adventure.
Once again, Mr. Fife wowed me with his narration, most especially his dragon voices (my favorites are April, Longbourn and Walker), and he certainly had great material to work with from Ms. Grace. I suspect I’ll be listening to this trilogy again, more than once 😉
September 22, 2020
This is the third book in this series and is just as wonderful as the first two. Elisabeth will do anything to save Pemberley, including marry Mr. Darcy. Mr. Bennet must face the fact that Elisabeth will not be taking care of Longburn, and Mr. Colins is to marry her sister, Mary. There is a rogue dragon in England and Darcy and Elisabeth are called by the Blue Order to find him, and bring him in, while John Fitzwilliam has been ordered to kill him. The narrator is wonderful with the climax of the story, bringing it its exciting end. This series is a must for dragon and romance readers everywhere.
July 3, 2023
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this series. All in all though half way through this last book I felt like the series had run on too long. I think it needed a little editing and it could have been two books. Overall though I really did enjoy them. It was fun to see how the author worked in lines from P&P in unexpected in ways and from different people and it really worked!
March 18, 2020
A Delightful Conclusion
This book is a wonderful conclusion to the Permberly Dragon series. The story is very satisfying on many levels, both dragon and human.
This book is a wonderful conclusion to the Permberly Dragon series. The story is very satisfying on many levels, both dragon and human.
August 3, 2020
This series is my perfect pairing. I love Jane Austin and dragons. The perfect storm of stories. The way the dragons are portrait is wonderful as well as the variety of types. I hope this continues to expand and more adventures are had.
February 25, 2021
I was fortunate enough to be allowed to proofread this and the second Jane Austen's Dragons book by Maria Grace, and I have to say that I ADORE this series. Out of the 600+ Austen variation novels I've read over the past five years or so, this series is my absolute #1 favorite of all time!!!!!!
Seriously.
No exceptions.
It's a brilliant world Maria Grace has dreamed up and researched meticulously. Each type of dragon in this series of three books thus far (and a fourth coming out soon--a prequel to this trilogy) has been based on dragon lore of Britain, Scotland, Ireland, and northern Europe. And the Blue Order--the association of dragons in Britain and the dragon-hearers--those who see, hear, and care for the hundreds, perhaps thousands of dragons in England--is simply brilliant.
In this third book of the trilogy based on Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Darcy and Elizabeth have been declared engaged by the Blue Order Council in order for both of them to care for young Pemberley, the baby firedrake who hatched in mysterious circumstances in Book One. But a rogue dragon--one not subject to the Pendragon Treaty to which all dragon and human members of the Blue Order agree--may be living at Netherfield Park, just outside of Laird Longbourn's territory. Elizabeth is charged by the Blue Order to discover this rogue dragon and to bring it into the Blue Order while Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam travel throughout Britain, quieting dragonkind who are upset at the idea of a possible rogue dragon and searching for clues about its provenance. Lydia, who apparently just started to hear dragons (which can occur later in life) is missing from Netherfield which she was caring for while Jane and Bingley (both dragon-deaf) are honeymooning.
In addition, Elizabeth has been banished from Longbourn's territory for refusing to marry Mr. Collins and for leaving Longbourn to care for baby Pemberley at Rosings Park where she was pining for "her" (Elizabeth). Mary, the other Bennet daughter who can hear dragons, is installed as Junior Keeper under Mr. Bennet, Historian of the Blue Order. Mary and her father are charged with the education of Mr. Collins, now affianced to Mary, as the Longbourn Estate (and its dragon) are entailed to him.
So with the very future of the Blue Order and the Pendragon Accords in jeopardy, Elizabeth and Darcy and the dragons assisting them, seek to keep peace between humanity and dragonkind within England...while trying to pursue their own future as co-Keepers of young Pemberley who will become a very powerful dragon in the Blue Order due to her rank within dragonkind.
And I'll leave my description here now that the background is clear (I hope). Just read the whole series; it's absolutely brilliant!!!!!!!!!!
Seriously.
No exceptions.
It's a brilliant world Maria Grace has dreamed up and researched meticulously. Each type of dragon in this series of three books thus far (and a fourth coming out soon--a prequel to this trilogy) has been based on dragon lore of Britain, Scotland, Ireland, and northern Europe. And the Blue Order--the association of dragons in Britain and the dragon-hearers--those who see, hear, and care for the hundreds, perhaps thousands of dragons in England--is simply brilliant.
In this third book of the trilogy based on Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Darcy and Elizabeth have been declared engaged by the Blue Order Council in order for both of them to care for young Pemberley, the baby firedrake who hatched in mysterious circumstances in Book One. But a rogue dragon--one not subject to the Pendragon Treaty to which all dragon and human members of the Blue Order agree--may be living at Netherfield Park, just outside of Laird Longbourn's territory. Elizabeth is charged by the Blue Order to discover this rogue dragon and to bring it into the Blue Order while Darcy and Colonel Fitzwilliam travel throughout Britain, quieting dragonkind who are upset at the idea of a possible rogue dragon and searching for clues about its provenance. Lydia, who apparently just started to hear dragons (which can occur later in life) is missing from Netherfield which she was caring for while Jane and Bingley (both dragon-deaf) are honeymooning.
In addition, Elizabeth has been banished from Longbourn's territory for refusing to marry Mr. Collins and for leaving Longbourn to care for baby Pemberley at Rosings Park where she was pining for "her" (Elizabeth). Mary, the other Bennet daughter who can hear dragons, is installed as Junior Keeper under Mr. Bennet, Historian of the Blue Order. Mary and her father are charged with the education of Mr. Collins, now affianced to Mary, as the Longbourn Estate (and its dragon) are entailed to him.
So with the very future of the Blue Order and the Pendragon Accords in jeopardy, Elizabeth and Darcy and the dragons assisting them, seek to keep peace between humanity and dragonkind within England...while trying to pursue their own future as co-Keepers of young Pemberley who will become a very powerful dragon in the Blue Order due to her rank within dragonkind.
And I'll leave my description here now that the background is clear (I hope). Just read the whole series; it's absolutely brilliant!!!!!!!!!!
December 29, 2019
A wild Regency ride
So... I skipped book 2 (hey, no judging 🤨), and went straight for the action in the final book. Thankfully there’s nothing that happens in this book that needs you to have read the second book. However, it has morphed into it’s own thing that I forgot about P&P for a moment and just had fun with this Darcy and Lizzy.
The dragons were adorable, even the cranky old major dragons, and the fairy dragons are brilliant 🥰. Mr Bennet is a far cry from the origins of his character, and is stubborn, selfish, and disrespectful to almost everyone. He is my least favourite character, but that is only because of how he treats Lizzy, and not because he is a badly depicted character. Mr Collins is another surprise, and in all, I enjoyed the time I spent reading this book.
The world was very Austen, but with the fantastical elements, it just elevated it into a weird pseudo-Regency landscape that I found very entertaining.
3.5 stars ⭐️
So... I skipped book 2 (hey, no judging 🤨), and went straight for the action in the final book. Thankfully there’s nothing that happens in this book that needs you to have read the second book. However, it has morphed into it’s own thing that I forgot about P&P for a moment and just had fun with this Darcy and Lizzy.
The dragons were adorable, even the cranky old major dragons, and the fairy dragons are brilliant 🥰. Mr Bennet is a far cry from the origins of his character, and is stubborn, selfish, and disrespectful to almost everyone. He is my least favourite character, but that is only because of how he treats Lizzy, and not because he is a badly depicted character. Mr Collins is another surprise, and in all, I enjoyed the time I spent reading this book.
The world was very Austen, but with the fantastical elements, it just elevated it into a weird pseudo-Regency landscape that I found very entertaining.
3.5 stars ⭐️
January 28, 2019
Spoilers are probably/most likely in this review.
I want back into this world. I wanna be with the dragons. Can’t I be with the dragons?
Mr. Bennet stayed the stubborn old man that is was without fully accepting how good Elizabeth was with dragons.
I couldn’t believe that Bennet came up and got Longbourn to agree that Elizabeth would be a better ‘thing’ (for lack of a better word) then salt!! 💢
Well Collins didn’t get eaten. I’ll be dreaming that he did. I can still hope that he will be.
I want back into this world. I wanna be with the dragons. Can’t I be with the dragons?
Mr. Bennet stayed the stubborn old man that is was without fully accepting how good Elizabeth was with dragons.
I couldn’t believe that Bennet came up and got Longbourn to agree that Elizabeth would be a better ‘thing’ (for lack of a better word) then salt!! 💢
Well Collins didn’t get eaten. I’ll be dreaming that he did. I can still hope that he will be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2018
Avid Reader
As one reviewer stated, the ending was quite a surprise! Complaints about the lack of affection between Darcy and Elizabeth were unfounded. Both simply spent more time with dragons than people. Eventually, they expressed feelings after a harrowing rogue-dragon experience. Collins and Colonel Fitzwilliam changed after experiencing a hatching. Georgina overcomes her fear of dragons, and Pemberly gets her two keepers. Lydia, Wickham, Mr. Bennet, and Laird Longbourn learn valuable lessons and reap the consequences of their actions.
As one reviewer stated, the ending was quite a surprise! Complaints about the lack of affection between Darcy and Elizabeth were unfounded. Both simply spent more time with dragons than people. Eventually, they expressed feelings after a harrowing rogue-dragon experience. Collins and Colonel Fitzwilliam changed after experiencing a hatching. Georgina overcomes her fear of dragons, and Pemberly gets her two keepers. Lydia, Wickham, Mr. Bennet, and Laird Longbourn learn valuable lessons and reap the consequences of their actions.
May 6, 2018
Another wonderful book!
This is yet another wonderful book by Maria Grace! I've greatly enjoyed all of her works but I think her Regency dragon books are my favorites. I wish I had my own fairy dragon!
WWW
This is yet another wonderful book by Maria Grace! I've greatly enjoyed all of her works but I think her Regency dragon books are my favorites. I wish I had my own fairy dragon!
WWW
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