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Jane Austen's Dragons #5
The Dragons of Kellynch
One would think Anne Elliot, a baronet’s daughter, would find the marriage mart far easier to navigate than a more ordinary woman. One would be wrong.
After refusing a poor, but otherwise perfect sailor, on the advice of her friend Lady Russell, Anne finds an unhappy choice before marry deathly dull Charles Musgrove or hope against hope that another suitable proposal might come her way before she becomes a spinster on the shelf.
Anne’s disgracefully independent choice to refuse Charles’ offer turns her world entirely arsey-varsey and not in the expected turned upside down sort of way. She begins to see things … hear things … things like dragons.
And once one sees dragons, one talks to them. And when one talks to them, nothing is ever the same again.
Must a young lady marry well if she hears dragons?
A must-read gas lamp dragon fantasy! Jane Austen meets Anne McCaffrey with a touch of Harry Potter!
Book 5 of Jane Austen's Dragons
After refusing a poor, but otherwise perfect sailor, on the advice of her friend Lady Russell, Anne finds an unhappy choice before marry deathly dull Charles Musgrove or hope against hope that another suitable proposal might come her way before she becomes a spinster on the shelf.
Anne’s disgracefully independent choice to refuse Charles’ offer turns her world entirely arsey-varsey and not in the expected turned upside down sort of way. She begins to see things … hear things … things like dragons.
And once one sees dragons, one talks to them. And when one talks to them, nothing is ever the same again.
Must a young lady marry well if she hears dragons?
A must-read gas lamp dragon fantasy! Jane Austen meets Anne McCaffrey with a touch of Harry Potter!
Book 5 of Jane Austen's Dragons
211 pages, ebook
First published March 3, 2020
206 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Maria Grace
100 books321 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 97 reviews
May 2, 2023
Dragons in the world of Jane Austen? Of course I was going to adore this series. I listened to the first three books with great rapidity and then allowed myself to be distracted. However, I’ve returned once again for the start of the second season in this fabulous gaslight fantasy series with the spotlight leaving the Pride and Prejudice setting and characters to Austen’s pair of second chance lovers in a dragon adventure-fueled Persuasion variation.
Unlike Elizabeth, Anne Elliot knew nothing about the dragons who share her world and came to her ‘dragon sight and hearing’ late in life. Now, with the future of her family’s estate and the day to day upkeep on her shoulders, she must add getting up to speed with the secret Blue Order of Dragons or everything is lost.
Meanwhile, the man she sent away and never stopped loving is having his own dragon adventures on the high seas.
I liked how the story focused on Anne and slowly introduced her to the mysteries of the dragon world and what is truly at stake because her father neglected his duties as estate dragon keeper to focus on his status in the human only realm. This was definitely an introduction book that newcomers could enjoy as well as series fans. I suspect that after the next book, though, newbies should really get back to the beginning books because the two seasons of this series will merge.
The tone of these is more high fantasy though the world is Regency. The dragons are all sorts of breeds and temperaments with all their own personalities. I loved seeing Anne learn about them and start to interact with them.
Dragons of Kellynch is not a standalone story and will end at a good spot, but is only the first half so be prepared to need the next book to complete this story line. This is definitely for those who enjoy classic dragon fantasy and classic Jane Austen rolled into one.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Apr 21st.
Unlike Elizabeth, Anne Elliot knew nothing about the dragons who share her world and came to her ‘dragon sight and hearing’ late in life. Now, with the future of her family’s estate and the day to day upkeep on her shoulders, she must add getting up to speed with the secret Blue Order of Dragons or everything is lost.
Meanwhile, the man she sent away and never stopped loving is having his own dragon adventures on the high seas.
I liked how the story focused on Anne and slowly introduced her to the mysteries of the dragon world and what is truly at stake because her father neglected his duties as estate dragon keeper to focus on his status in the human only realm. This was definitely an introduction book that newcomers could enjoy as well as series fans. I suspect that after the next book, though, newbies should really get back to the beginning books because the two seasons of this series will merge.
The tone of these is more high fantasy though the world is Regency. The dragons are all sorts of breeds and temperaments with all their own personalities. I loved seeing Anne learn about them and start to interact with them.
Dragons of Kellynch is not a standalone story and will end at a good spot, but is only the first half so be prepared to need the next book to complete this story line. This is definitely for those who enjoy classic dragon fantasy and classic Jane Austen rolled into one.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Apr 21st.
June 29, 2020
“Draco Dormiens Nunquam Titillandus [never tickle a sleeping dragon]” –J.K.Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
This is Book 5 in the ‘Jane Austen’s Dragons’ series by Maria Grace: Rating: clean: 11 chapters, contains an Intermezzo [1, 2, & 3], plus an epilogue:
This is the first book with the Persuasion storyline. Unfortunately, the story ended at the halfway point in the separation period [at about 3 ½-years] between Wentworth and Anne Elliot. Those familiar with Persuasion know the timeline and those things that have to happen before the return of Wentworth. Anne Elliot experiences another proposal and we have the fracture within the family between Sir Walter and his heir. This was very interesting how Grace blended the sensibilities of dragon-hearing with Austen’s Persuasion. Wow! That was so cool. I kept thinking… we are at the point where such-and-so should happen, and then it did. I have already pre-ordered book 6: Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion [estimated publication date of 7-8-20]. I can hardly wait for it to launch so I can see what happens next.
“But it is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
This book can easily stand-alone; however, the reader needs to know there is a WHOLE lot more information regarding dragon lore and the Blue Order. Maria Grace did an excellent job explaining the order of things to a reader not familiar with Grace’s other stories of dragons in England or Austen’s ‘Persuasion.’ I highly suggest reading the other books in the series if for no other reason than to learn all about dragons and what they mean to the story. The first dragon books in the series were P&P centered and featured Darcy and Elizabeth. They were my favorite more so than this version. It was hard to get into this story-line. Maybe the second book will smooth that out. I’m waiting for Wentworth to come on the scene.
The beginning of the story was a bit tedious as we waited for Anne to ‘catch-up’ with the program. Her coming into her dragon-hearing late in life created many problems that were of concern to Lady Russell, the Blue Order, and one that her father chose to ignore, among other things. How like Sir Walter. Most children discover they can hear dragons at a young age; Anne was two and twenty. Sir Walter and Lady Elliot had always believed that none of their children were dragon-hearing. To now learn that Anne could hear was a surprise that Sir Walter did not welcome.
What I didn’t like: There seemed to be a lot of descriptions of everything… colors, decorations, room placements, flowers, scents, birds, gardens, etc. Perhaps it was Anne’s senses being awakened. I’m not sure but I kept wanting to speed read and get to the good parts of the story. I wasn’t crazy about Lady Russell’s secret. I stand with Wentworth in that she was never one of my favorite characters.
Sir Walter was worse than canon… I didn’t know that was possible? Such an obstinate, headstrong man. Elizabeth Elliot was also worse than canon [ugh] and sister Mary was pretty much herself [again ugh]. They all were horrid and atrocious, especially in their treatment of Anne. But then, that was the way they were portrayed in canon. They were awful.
What I did like: Surprisingly, it was the three-parts ‘Intermezzo’ featuring our Captain Wentworth that was the most exciting. Oh, I really enjoyed those parts. One doesn’t have to have a working knowledge of Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ to enjoy his segments in the story. Although, it was fun stumbling across tidbits from canon. I never grew tired of reading them as they made me smile. I had read bits of this on the author’s website and was excited to see it in its published form.
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail
Book 3 Netherfield: Rogue Dragon
Book 4: A Proper Introduction to Dragons
Book 5: The Dragons of Kellynch
Book 6: Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion
“What do you know about dragons?”
“They’re big, scaly, four-legged creatures with wings who terrorized small villages until a virgin was offered up as a sacrifice.”
He grinned again. “I do miss the virgins.” –Katie MacAlister, You Slay Me
Slay Me
This is Book 5 in the ‘Jane Austen’s Dragons’ series by Maria Grace: Rating: clean: 11 chapters, contains an Intermezzo [1, 2, & 3], plus an epilogue:
This is the first book with the Persuasion storyline. Unfortunately, the story ended at the halfway point in the separation period [at about 3 ½-years] between Wentworth and Anne Elliot. Those familiar with Persuasion know the timeline and those things that have to happen before the return of Wentworth. Anne Elliot experiences another proposal and we have the fracture within the family between Sir Walter and his heir. This was very interesting how Grace blended the sensibilities of dragon-hearing with Austen’s Persuasion. Wow! That was so cool. I kept thinking… we are at the point where such-and-so should happen, and then it did. I have already pre-ordered book 6: Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion [estimated publication date of 7-8-20]. I can hardly wait for it to launch so I can see what happens next.
“But it is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
This book can easily stand-alone; however, the reader needs to know there is a WHOLE lot more information regarding dragon lore and the Blue Order. Maria Grace did an excellent job explaining the order of things to a reader not familiar with Grace’s other stories of dragons in England or Austen’s ‘Persuasion.’ I highly suggest reading the other books in the series if for no other reason than to learn all about dragons and what they mean to the story. The first dragon books in the series were P&P centered and featured Darcy and Elizabeth. They were my favorite more so than this version. It was hard to get into this story-line. Maybe the second book will smooth that out. I’m waiting for Wentworth to come on the scene.
The beginning of the story was a bit tedious as we waited for Anne to ‘catch-up’ with the program. Her coming into her dragon-hearing late in life created many problems that were of concern to Lady Russell, the Blue Order, and one that her father chose to ignore, among other things. How like Sir Walter. Most children discover they can hear dragons at a young age; Anne was two and twenty. Sir Walter and Lady Elliot had always believed that none of their children were dragon-hearing. To now learn that Anne could hear was a surprise that Sir Walter did not welcome.
What I didn’t like: There seemed to be a lot of descriptions of everything… colors, decorations, room placements, flowers, scents, birds, gardens, etc. Perhaps it was Anne’s senses being awakened. I’m not sure but I kept wanting to speed read and get to the good parts of the story. I wasn’t crazy about Lady Russell’s secret. I stand with Wentworth in that she was never one of my favorite characters.
Sir Walter was worse than canon… I didn’t know that was possible? Such an obstinate, headstrong man. Elizabeth Elliot was also worse than canon [ugh] and sister Mary was pretty much herself [again ugh]. They all were horrid and atrocious, especially in their treatment of Anne. But then, that was the way they were portrayed in canon. They were awful.
What I did like: Surprisingly, it was the three-parts ‘Intermezzo’ featuring our Captain Wentworth that was the most exciting. Oh, I really enjoyed those parts. One doesn’t have to have a working knowledge of Austen’s ‘Persuasion’ to enjoy his segments in the story. Although, it was fun stumbling across tidbits from canon. I never grew tired of reading them as they made me smile. I had read bits of this on the author’s website and was excited to see it in its published form.
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail
Book 3 Netherfield: Rogue Dragon
Book 4: A Proper Introduction to Dragons
Book 5: The Dragons of Kellynch
Book 6: Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion
“What do you know about dragons?”
“They’re big, scaly, four-legged creatures with wings who terrorized small villages until a virgin was offered up as a sacrifice.”
He grinned again. “I do miss the virgins.” –Katie MacAlister, You Slay Me
Slay Me
August 19, 2020
This should definitely be read with the next book in the series. Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion And I would also recommend being familiar with Jane Austen's Persuasion story.
In this book Anne Elliot comes into her "hearing" of dragons at an older age than some. She finds herself frustrated in that although her father can also hear and SHOULD be the Keeper of the estate dragon, Kellynch, he refuses to have anything to do with that dragon or even to introduce her into the Blue Order.
Anne has to turn to her old friend, Mrs. Smith, for an introduction into the Order. Anne then has to hide all the books she must study in secret in order to gain admittance into the Order and then be named the Junior Keeper to Kellynch...who has been hibernating for two generations due to his dissatisfaction with how the estate (Really, the dragon's estate) has been run for all those years. Anne gains friends among the dragons and one is a surprise...one she has known all her life...but not as a dragon.
When Anne learns, along with her family, that William Elliot, the heir to Kellynch is coming for a visit she also is told that she must marry him in order to continue to care properly for the estate dragon. But plans don't always follow the path one thinks they will.
So it is that the story ends with no resolve for the Estate Dragon's future care or for Anne who finds herself with tenative plans to move away
We also have several chapters about Frederick Wentworth, his hearing of dragons and his taking one, a tatzelwurm Laconia, onto his ship, where the dragon is thought to be a cat and also a sign of good luck. We read how they discover further dragons dwelling in the seas they sail and then how Frederick is advised to marry.
On to the next in the series...I do highly recommend this series...great fun to read about. I won a copy of this and the next book from a blog raffle - no strings attached.
In this book Anne Elliot comes into her "hearing" of dragons at an older age than some. She finds herself frustrated in that although her father can also hear and SHOULD be the Keeper of the estate dragon, Kellynch, he refuses to have anything to do with that dragon or even to introduce her into the Blue Order.
Anne has to turn to her old friend, Mrs. Smith, for an introduction into the Order. Anne then has to hide all the books she must study in secret in order to gain admittance into the Order and then be named the Junior Keeper to Kellynch...who has been hibernating for two generations due to his dissatisfaction with how the estate (Really, the dragon's estate) has been run for all those years. Anne gains friends among the dragons and one is a surprise...one she has known all her life...but not as a dragon.
When Anne learns, along with her family, that William Elliot, the heir to Kellynch is coming for a visit she also is told that she must marry him in order to continue to care properly for the estate dragon. But plans don't always follow the path one thinks they will.
So it is that the story ends with no resolve for the Estate Dragon's future care or for Anne who finds herself with tenative plans to move away
We also have several chapters about Frederick Wentworth, his hearing of dragons and his taking one, a tatzelwurm Laconia, onto his ship, where the dragon is thought to be a cat and also a sign of good luck. We read how they discover further dragons dwelling in the seas they sail and then how Frederick is advised to marry.
On to the next in the series...I do highly recommend this series...great fun to read about. I won a copy of this and the next book from a blog raffle - no strings attached.
February 2, 2021
What's cooler than 19th century England with dragons thrown in the mix? Nothing. Dragons are the best.
I had a lot of fun listening to The Dragons of Kellynch! I found myself listening in snatches of free time but that didn't take away from the overall enjoyment. I actually listened to it twice! Let me explain. I have a habit of listening to audiobooks too late at night so I'm ashamed to admit that the first time through was when I fell asleep with it still going, and I unfortunately listened to the ENTIRE audiobook in my sleep...oops 😱
Even though it took me a little bit to get into the characters, I really enjoyed them. I found myself a bit rankled by Anne's father and sister but I suppose that was on purpose:) Anne was such a fun character. I thoroughly enjoyed her comments about getting thrown in the mad house! If I were in her shoes, I don't doubt that I'd be having the same thoughts. And of course, all the dragons were great characters as well (they definitely count as characters). I loved them! Their unique and quirky personalities made this book all the more enjoyable! I was also pleasantly surprised when I found out that they could talk!
The plot was a little slow, not much "action" happened in The Dragons of Kellynch, but I don't think every book needs to be action packed to be exciting and enjoyable. As was the case with this book, I enjoyed the plot through and through.
And last but not least, the narrator. I'm unapologetically picky about narrators and will occasionally stop listening to an audiobook purely because of my dislike for the way the book is narrated. I'm happy to say that this was not the case for The Dragons of Kellynch. Mr. Fife did an excellent job!
I look forward to reading/listening to more about the world of Jane Austen's Dragons!
I had a lot of fun listening to The Dragons of Kellynch! I found myself listening in snatches of free time but that didn't take away from the overall enjoyment. I actually listened to it twice! Let me explain. I have a habit of listening to audiobooks too late at night so I'm ashamed to admit that the first time through was when I fell asleep with it still going, and I unfortunately listened to the ENTIRE audiobook in my sleep...oops 😱
Even though it took me a little bit to get into the characters, I really enjoyed them. I found myself a bit rankled by Anne's father and sister but I suppose that was on purpose:) Anne was such a fun character. I thoroughly enjoyed her comments about getting thrown in the mad house! If I were in her shoes, I don't doubt that I'd be having the same thoughts. And of course, all the dragons were great characters as well (they definitely count as characters). I loved them! Their unique and quirky personalities made this book all the more enjoyable! I was also pleasantly surprised when I found out that they could talk!
The plot was a little slow, not much "action" happened in The Dragons of Kellynch, but I don't think every book needs to be action packed to be exciting and enjoyable. As was the case with this book, I enjoyed the plot through and through.
And last but not least, the narrator. I'm unapologetically picky about narrators and will occasionally stop listening to an audiobook purely because of my dislike for the way the book is narrated. I'm happy to say that this was not the case for The Dragons of Kellynch. Mr. Fife did an excellent job!
I look forward to reading/listening to more about the world of Jane Austen's Dragons!
October 6, 2020
My Rating: 3.5* rounded up to 4*
"No more succumbing to the bidding of others. She would be in command of her life, at least for the next few minutes." (quote from the book)
This is the opening book for 'Persuasion' dragons and could be read as a stand-alone; however, I strongly urge you to start with Dragon Book #1 - "Mr. Darcy's Dragon". The history and understanding of the Blue Order and the Pendragon Treaty are all built from this one.
'The Dragons of Kellynch' lays the groundwork for how Anne Elliot comes to 'hearing/seeing' dragons. It was a bit slow for me at the beginning, or maybe I was just annoyed with Sir Elliot, Elizabeth and Mary . Lady Russell is up to her usual tricks, but she was never a favourite of mine to begin with. What Ms. Grace did with her character though was very clever, indeed. I'm sure Wentworth will have some choice words for her when he finally meets with up her again. But that is in the next book!
Yes, this book starts three years after Anne has been persuaded by Lady Russell to give up Wentworth. Three long, sad years of trying to move on. Now she has to deal with Charles Musgrove.
"She had been loved once and turned aside from it. Settling for less than that now was simply and utterly impossible. What more was there to say?" (quote from the book)
This book is necessary to the overall arc of the story. So much necessary background is laid out in this one....Mrs. Smith, Mr. Elliot and the problem with Sir Elliot and his dragon. I must say, I completely enjoyed Wentworth's adventures in this book. I'm looking forward to reading 'Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion (Book 6) now out!
November 8, 2020
Though still interesting, I didn't enjoy this as much as the other books in this series. This one felt as if it just cut off mid story. I received a free review copy of the audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2020
This new book in the dragon series starts a new game rolling. It's very interesting to see how our known characters adapt to the different circumstances around them, maintaining the traits of their personalities. I loved Laconia!
March 21, 2021
Delightful story as Ann Elliott of Kellynch (Persuasion) develops the ability to hear dragons.
This opens a whole new world to her. It is also something she has in common with her erstwhile love, Captain Wentworth.
The dragons are many and varied. Small and furry, large and scary.
Benjamin Fife does an excellent job as narrator and his dragon voices are brilliant
This opens a whole new world to her. It is also something she has in common with her erstwhile love, Captain Wentworth.
The dragons are many and varied. Small and furry, large and scary.
Benjamin Fife does an excellent job as narrator and his dragon voices are brilliant
January 31, 2021
CAPTIVATING SERIES.
Indeed this series had me thinking "where have you been hiding?" I found this series absolutely captivating. I was in dragon heaven I tell you, I bought the rest of the series straightaway after reading the first book. I recommend listening/reading in order except you should listen/read book 4 first as it tells you about the dragons and Jane and Elizabeth's early history but that is just my opinion. There is an underlying plot that took me several books to pick up on and had me quite excited to discover what the ending may bring.
Then there is another matter, the narrator, my goodness- his voices were exceptional and I cannot think be improved. I think the success of this whole series on this audible platform is for the most part his vocalization as he paints each description and happening with these fantastical creatures. Let me also tell you that I have listened to each book many times over and shall do so more in the future. I have added this series to my "favorites"
RECOMMENDED
Indeed this series had me thinking "where have you been hiding?" I found this series absolutely captivating. I was in dragon heaven I tell you, I bought the rest of the series straightaway after reading the first book. I recommend listening/reading in order except you should listen/read book 4 first as it tells you about the dragons and Jane and Elizabeth's early history but that is just my opinion. There is an underlying plot that took me several books to pick up on and had me quite excited to discover what the ending may bring.
Then there is another matter, the narrator, my goodness- his voices were exceptional and I cannot think be improved. I think the success of this whole series on this audible platform is for the most part his vocalization as he paints each description and happening with these fantastical creatures. Let me also tell you that I have listened to each book many times over and shall do so more in the future. I have added this series to my "favorites"
RECOMMENDED
March 16, 2020
I can't wait for the next dragon book.
December 13, 2025
This is a branch off from the main characters in the first 4 books, which is fine, but it took a little while to get into the flow of the material and characters. There was not as much interaction with the dragons as I would have liked but it did set up things for the next installment. Looking forward to it.
February 19, 2022
Love this one too! Still waiting for #6 to come in the mail.
Reread: Love it!
Reread: Love it!
December 21, 2020
Although not nearly as complex as the previous books in the 'Jane Austen's Dragons' series, this book is a reasonably worthy successor that manages to merge the travails of regency husband-hunting with the perils of coming into hearing dragons late in life.
As always, Benjamin Fife gives us an absolutely phenomenal performance. His accents are near-perfect, his voices impeccable, and his sense of rhythm and pacing are second to none. There are few audiobook narrators in the same league as Benjamin.
Now, in fairness, I struggled to get into this book. Although I should have, I didn't bother to read the description. I was so thoroughly engrossed by the previous books that I didn't think it was necesssary. So, naturally, I was caught off guard by the switch in main characters. I really liked Elizabeth, but Anne just doesn't have the same... likeability for me.
Admittedly, there are story reasons for this, which do make sense, but because of it, as a character she just didn't work for me.
That said, however, there are a number of well-drawn characters that really bring the book and the world to life. Although there isn't a lot about the Blue Order in this one, what there is does give us a deeper understanding of the Order and how it works.
I think a lot of my frustration is that, because it does take Anne so long to get on board with the idea of dragons (and hearing them) being real, I spent quite a bit of time just urging the book to "get on with it" and get to the point. I had a much easier time getting into the first book because the dragons were a natural facet pretty much from page one.
Also, I know this is a big selling point for many of Maria Grace's readers, but for me the constant politicking and min/maxing involved in a regency noblewoman hunting for a husband (or her family trying to do it for her) is ... wearying. I enjoyed the flow of the first three books largely because Elizabeth considered herself so far above all that. And while I can see what appears to be an attempt to make Anne similar in that regard (if not the same), it unfortunately just makes her come across as petulant and childish because ... well ... she doesn't seem to have a good reason to be above it.
She has this nebulous feeling of not wanting to do as is expected of her, but there's no reason I can see for her to think of things any differently than any other young woman in her position.
All that aside, there are some interesting things going on, particularly with the estate dragon and a few mysteries that I will not spoil here.
Overall, as always, building believable characters that feel compelling and real is Maria Grace's greatest strength. Almost every character that appears in the book has a unique personality and their own goals. No one is there just to serve the plot. Of course, having not read the original source material, I can't say if this is Grace's doing or Austen's (except in the cases of the dragons, of course), but it makes for good reading either way.
My biggest complaint is the one that I had for the first three books about Elizabeth Bennet as well. In short, it comes down to the fact that this book is not a complete story but a fraction of one. The first three books were, in sum, one story, and I suspect that will be the case here as well. Which is borne out by the shortness of each book. For audiobooks consumers like myself, that makes them a hard sell no matter how well written they are.
I think if I were to make one suggestion to the author/publisher, it would be to stop adapting one Jane Austen book into three books and make them one book as they should be. I know I'm not the only reader/listener who is frustrated by coming to the end of a book only to realize that you're only holding half (or less) of a complete story.
As always, Benjamin Fife gives us an absolutely phenomenal performance. His accents are near-perfect, his voices impeccable, and his sense of rhythm and pacing are second to none. There are few audiobook narrators in the same league as Benjamin.
Now, in fairness, I struggled to get into this book. Although I should have, I didn't bother to read the description. I was so thoroughly engrossed by the previous books that I didn't think it was necesssary. So, naturally, I was caught off guard by the switch in main characters. I really liked Elizabeth, but Anne just doesn't have the same... likeability for me.
Admittedly, there are story reasons for this, which do make sense, but because of it, as a character she just didn't work for me.
That said, however, there are a number of well-drawn characters that really bring the book and the world to life. Although there isn't a lot about the Blue Order in this one, what there is does give us a deeper understanding of the Order and how it works.
I think a lot of my frustration is that, because it does take Anne so long to get on board with the idea of dragons (and hearing them) being real, I spent quite a bit of time just urging the book to "get on with it" and get to the point. I had a much easier time getting into the first book because the dragons were a natural facet pretty much from page one.
Also, I know this is a big selling point for many of Maria Grace's readers, but for me the constant politicking and min/maxing involved in a regency noblewoman hunting for a husband (or her family trying to do it for her) is ... wearying. I enjoyed the flow of the first three books largely because Elizabeth considered herself so far above all that. And while I can see what appears to be an attempt to make Anne similar in that regard (if not the same), it unfortunately just makes her come across as petulant and childish because ... well ... she doesn't seem to have a good reason to be above it.
She has this nebulous feeling of not wanting to do as is expected of her, but there's no reason I can see for her to think of things any differently than any other young woman in her position.
All that aside, there are some interesting things going on, particularly with the estate dragon and a few mysteries that I will not spoil here.
Overall, as always, building believable characters that feel compelling and real is Maria Grace's greatest strength. Almost every character that appears in the book has a unique personality and their own goals. No one is there just to serve the plot. Of course, having not read the original source material, I can't say if this is Grace's doing or Austen's (except in the cases of the dragons, of course), but it makes for good reading either way.
My biggest complaint is the one that I had for the first three books about Elizabeth Bennet as well. In short, it comes down to the fact that this book is not a complete story but a fraction of one. The first three books were, in sum, one story, and I suspect that will be the case here as well. Which is borne out by the shortness of each book. For audiobooks consumers like myself, that makes them a hard sell no matter how well written they are.
I think if I were to make one suggestion to the author/publisher, it would be to stop adapting one Jane Austen book into three books and make them one book as they should be. I know I'm not the only reader/listener who is frustrated by coming to the end of a book only to realize that you're only holding half (or less) of a complete story.
December 16, 2020
I'd discovered the "Jane Austen's Dragon's" books and loved books 1-4. I was pretty happy when I saw there was another installment. My only hesitation was ... I have not read Persuasion. I'm a HUGE Pride and Prejudice fan, and even with the addition of dragons, the first books were really tied to that original story (although they did end up going off in new directions). I wasn't sure how I'd enjoy this without knowing the original story. I had actually read a different re-imagining (For Darkness Shows the Stars based on Persuasion, so I had a general idea of the story from that. I'd actually planned on reading Persuasion first, but I was able to grab this for free (for review) from StoryOrigin and there is a little pressure to complete the read (listen, I got the audiobook ... but did have access to the kindle copy on KindleUnlimited) and get the review done, so I went ahead.
I was a little thrown at the start by Elizabeth, Mary and Anne ... names from P&P, but Elizabeth being an entirely different type of character. This of course is a critique more for Austen's original than Ms. Grace's adaptation. This had a very similar feel to the first books, even though it was based on a different Austen story and the dragons weren't introduced until a ways into the book. Part of the familiarity was also because the narrator (Benjamin Fife) was the same. He has a very distinctive voice (or should I say voice(S) because there are a great many!)
I'm trying to remember how much of the original P&P was wrapped up in the first book. Even not being familiar with Persuasion, I could tell that this installment did not cover that entire book (as our romantic leads have not even come together yet, they are in uncrossed, separate storylines as this book ends). This felt very short - it was over before I knew it! I definitely plan on continuing on ... just debating on whether to read the next book (it is available in KU), consider purchasing the audio (there is no whispersync discount though) or wait a bit and hope that a review copy of that audio comes up ... and maybe I'll read the original Persuasion before that happens!
I was a little thrown at the start by Elizabeth, Mary and Anne ... names from P&P, but Elizabeth being an entirely different type of character. This of course is a critique more for Austen's original than Ms. Grace's adaptation. This had a very similar feel to the first books, even though it was based on a different Austen story and the dragons weren't introduced until a ways into the book. Part of the familiarity was also because the narrator (Benjamin Fife) was the same. He has a very distinctive voice (or should I say voice(S) because there are a great many!)
I'm trying to remember how much of the original P&P was wrapped up in the first book. Even not being familiar with Persuasion, I could tell that this installment did not cover that entire book (as our romantic leads have not even come together yet, they are in uncrossed, separate storylines as this book ends). This felt very short - it was over before I knew it! I definitely plan on continuing on ... just debating on whether to read the next book (it is available in KU), consider purchasing the audio (there is no whispersync discount though) or wait a bit and hope that a review copy of that audio comes up ... and maybe I'll read the original Persuasion before that happens!
March 1, 2021
This is the type of book series that is tailor-made for me as I love Jane Austen adaptations and my favorite genre is fantasy with world-building elements. This combination is so rare that when I heard about this series, I had to check it out. Although I plan on eventually reading all the books in the series, I decided to start with the Persuasion ones as it slightly edges P&P as my favorite JA work and there are way too few adaptations of it.
What I loved:
The fantasy world building! The book does a great job of immersing one into this unique world where dragons and humans interact. This is not a typical dragon book but one where the dragons are really given their due. It is obvious that a lot of thought went into this work as there are many different types of dragons with unique personalities making them as real as their human counterparts.
I also loved that there was a plot twist regarding a character that I didn't see coming. I do a lot of reading so I am rarely truly surprised by supposed twists and turns so this was a refreshing change.
I also enjoyed the narration for the story as the narrator does a great job in doing different voices, and, in particular, enjoyed his voicework for the dragons.
And finally, I loved that this is Anne's book. Her character really shines here and I liked how her discovery of this other world emboldens her and gives her a confidence that she often sorely lacks.
What I disliked:
There is nothing I really disliked; however, this book was much shorter than I expected and would not be completely satisfying read on its own. It does a great job establishing the world and setting up what's to come next. The focus is on Anne with short intermissions where we briefly check-in with Captain Wentworth and although in each others' thoughts, they do not have any interaction here. I was not surprised or truly disappointed by this; however, as I was aware that this was part of a series so I anticipated this might be the case. This is like an amuse-bouche that has whetted my appetite and now I am ready for the next course.
Disclaimer: I received a free audible copy in exchange for an honest review.
What I loved:
The fantasy world building! The book does a great job of immersing one into this unique world where dragons and humans interact. This is not a typical dragon book but one where the dragons are really given their due. It is obvious that a lot of thought went into this work as there are many different types of dragons with unique personalities making them as real as their human counterparts.
I also loved that there was a plot twist regarding a character that I didn't see coming. I do a lot of reading so I am rarely truly surprised by supposed twists and turns so this was a refreshing change.
I also enjoyed the narration for the story as the narrator does a great job in doing different voices, and, in particular, enjoyed his voicework for the dragons.
And finally, I loved that this is Anne's book. Her character really shines here and I liked how her discovery of this other world emboldens her and gives her a confidence that she often sorely lacks.
What I disliked:
There is nothing I really disliked; however, this book was much shorter than I expected and would not be completely satisfying read on its own. It does a great job establishing the world and setting up what's to come next. The focus is on Anne with short intermissions where we briefly check-in with Captain Wentworth and although in each others' thoughts, they do not have any interaction here. I was not surprised or truly disappointed by this; however, as I was aware that this was part of a series so I anticipated this might be the case. This is like an amuse-bouche that has whetted my appetite and now I am ready for the next course.
Disclaimer: I received a free audible copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2020
We meet Anne Elliot in this retelling of Persuasion. Anne is older than most girls when she discovers that she can hear dragons. This discovery is utterly overwhelming to the poor girl. She is the only person in her family that can hear dragons other than her late mother. Can she get an audience with the Blue Order to make herself known as is required by law? On the marriage front, things are very complicated. I don’t want to spoil anything, but this definitely has my attention.
At first, I was not happy that this is a completely different storyline. But I must admit that I was pulled in. Now, I must know what happens to Anne Elliot next! I love that she is willing to stand up for her right to be happy, even if it is too late to marry the man she loves. There is a book 6 that has not yet been released on audio. It appears to be the conclusion of Book 5.
Jane Austen’s Dragons is a delightful series by Maria Grace. Dragons and humans live side by side throughout the world. As dragons have the ability to influence what people think they are seeing, most people have no idea that dragons even exist. Only a special few humans have the ability to talk with dragons and see them for what they truly are. This is a magnificent retelling of Jane Austen’s amazing stories.
The narrator, Benjamin Fife, is perfect for this series. I got lost in Jane Austen’s world and didn’t want to come up for air. Easter Egg – Click here to read an interview between Maria Grace and Benjamin Fife. You must read the paragraph above the Longbourn blooper real link and then listen to the 30-second clip. I laughed out loud!
Source - I was given a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Michele, AudiobookLife.com
At first, I was not happy that this is a completely different storyline. But I must admit that I was pulled in. Now, I must know what happens to Anne Elliot next! I love that she is willing to stand up for her right to be happy, even if it is too late to marry the man she loves. There is a book 6 that has not yet been released on audio. It appears to be the conclusion of Book 5.
Jane Austen’s Dragons is a delightful series by Maria Grace. Dragons and humans live side by side throughout the world. As dragons have the ability to influence what people think they are seeing, most people have no idea that dragons even exist. Only a special few humans have the ability to talk with dragons and see them for what they truly are. This is a magnificent retelling of Jane Austen’s amazing stories.
The narrator, Benjamin Fife, is perfect for this series. I got lost in Jane Austen’s world and didn’t want to come up for air. Easter Egg – Click here to read an interview between Maria Grace and Benjamin Fife. You must read the paragraph above the Longbourn blooper real link and then listen to the 30-second clip. I laughed out loud!
Source - I was given a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Michele, AudiobookLife.com
February 25, 2023
Disappointing To Say The Least
I must admit straight off, I was greatly disappointed in the first 25% or so, of this book. Completely new cast of characters, settings, and sorely lacking of dragons. There's a few light references smattered throughout this section, pertaining to dragons, but not enough to even remember the details of such.
When it finally takes form and introduces 1 character that may be recognized from the previous 4 books already written and read, it's not really one of the main characters you'd be happy to see, like an old friend. Vibes you typically begin to feel, after being invested in a series this many books into. I honestly can't say if I even remember this particular character's role and relationship or not, especially with all the previous ones already tied to the series.
It does begin to show a fragment of redemptive qualities, moving forward from this point, so that's a positive.
I enjoyed it, but I will admit to enjoying 1-3 quite a bit more. This one just made me feel as if there wasn't enough quantifying substance to give much measurement of progress to the series. Especially with the ending rendered in such a fashion, and without providing any spoilers, I was left frustrated. There were issues left unfinished, opened ended, and I was to be left with the impression that the only possible way to move forward and toward some sort of a resolution would be addressed in another book. Here's hoping this last part is continued immediately in book 6.
I must admit straight off, I was greatly disappointed in the first 25% or so, of this book. Completely new cast of characters, settings, and sorely lacking of dragons. There's a few light references smattered throughout this section, pertaining to dragons, but not enough to even remember the details of such.
When it finally takes form and introduces 1 character that may be recognized from the previous 4 books already written and read, it's not really one of the main characters you'd be happy to see, like an old friend. Vibes you typically begin to feel, after being invested in a series this many books into. I honestly can't say if I even remember this particular character's role and relationship or not, especially with all the previous ones already tied to the series.
It does begin to show a fragment of redemptive qualities, moving forward from this point, so that's a positive.
I enjoyed it, but I will admit to enjoying 1-3 quite a bit more. This one just made me feel as if there wasn't enough quantifying substance to give much measurement of progress to the series. Especially with the ending rendered in such a fashion, and without providing any spoilers, I was left frustrated. There were issues left unfinished, opened ended, and I was to be left with the impression that the only possible way to move forward and toward some sort of a resolution would be addressed in another book. Here's hoping this last part is continued immediately in book 6.
December 3, 2020
Jane Austen's Persuasion with Dragons - an Excellent Jumping on Point
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First thing you need to know - even though this is book 5 in the series, this is actually an excellent jumping on point.
The first 3 books in the series were Pride and Prejudice and Dragons. The 4th was a prequel to that trilogy. This is the fist part of Persuasion and Dragons.
Persuasion has always been a frustrating Austen novel for me. Anne Elliot is likeable enough and I want her to be happy but she has let too many people around her dictate major decisions for her. This has bene the source of great unhappiness. This reinvention blends the dragon mythology that Marie Grace has invented to make this a tale of a young woman coming into power and prominence in an unexpected way - being out of her depth and seeking the help and guidance of those that should serve as mentors in this new world. It elevates the story and actually blends the themes even better than with Pride and Prejudice. There are some delightful twists and I eagerly look forward to the next part.
Benjamin Fife creates such a pleasant listening experience. Even with the dragon voices and sound effects. The first half of the story sadly did not give us nearly so many of those instances as we're used to since Anne was only becoming acquainted with the dragon world- but the second half did make up for that.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First thing you need to know - even though this is book 5 in the series, this is actually an excellent jumping on point.
The first 3 books in the series were Pride and Prejudice and Dragons. The 4th was a prequel to that trilogy. This is the fist part of Persuasion and Dragons.
Persuasion has always been a frustrating Austen novel for me. Anne Elliot is likeable enough and I want her to be happy but she has let too many people around her dictate major decisions for her. This has bene the source of great unhappiness. This reinvention blends the dragon mythology that Marie Grace has invented to make this a tale of a young woman coming into power and prominence in an unexpected way - being out of her depth and seeking the help and guidance of those that should serve as mentors in this new world. It elevates the story and actually blends the themes even better than with Pride and Prejudice. There are some delightful twists and I eagerly look forward to the next part.
Benjamin Fife creates such a pleasant listening experience. Even with the dragon voices and sound effects. The first half of the story sadly did not give us nearly so many of those instances as we're used to since Anne was only becoming acquainted with the dragon world- but the second half did make up for that.
January 3, 2021
After introducing dragons to the world of Pride and Prejudice, this newest addition to the series takes us into the story of Persuasion where Anne Elliot has never recovered from her broken engagement with Captain Wentworth. However, when she learns (later in life than is expected) that she can hear dragons and is in line to be the next keeper of the dragon of Kellynch, everything changes. Lady Russell wants her to marry Charles Musgrove, the Blue Order wants her to marry the heir to Kellynch, the heir has other ideas, and Anne just wants to learn more about dragons and this new world where women might be treated as equals to men regardless of marital status. She also learns that she has a voice and can speak up for herself and what is right.
I enjoyed this audiobook a great deal. The narration by Benjamin Fife was superb as always. The characters in the story were definitely Austen's characters, but they developed based on their interaction with the dragons which was interesting to watch. Lady Russell's transformation was particularly surprising and entertaining. It was a bit confusing that Anne's sisters were named Elizabeth and Mary (since the earlier books included sisters Elizabeth and Mary Bennett), but we can blame Austen for that. I loved all the new things still to be discovered about the dragons in this saga and look forward to the rest of the story.
I received a free audiobook from StoryOrigin and have reviewed it willingly.
I enjoyed this audiobook a great deal. The narration by Benjamin Fife was superb as always. The characters in the story were definitely Austen's characters, but they developed based on their interaction with the dragons which was interesting to watch. Lady Russell's transformation was particularly surprising and entertaining. It was a bit confusing that Anne's sisters were named Elizabeth and Mary (since the earlier books included sisters Elizabeth and Mary Bennett), but we can blame Austen for that. I loved all the new things still to be discovered about the dragons in this saga and look forward to the rest of the story.
I received a free audiobook from StoryOrigin and have reviewed it willingly.
September 18, 2022
Anyone hooked on Maria Grace’s dragons in her Pride and Prejudice variations will be thrilled to know that the story continues, this time in, Persuasion. Along with dragons, the best part of this book is watching the internal struggles of Anne Elliot as she grows into her strength. As in the original story, she has to cope with her selfish, shallow family members who care only for their status, wealth, and personal comfort. It is a puzzle how Anne initially escaped being infected by the arrogance and pride of her family. Yet, somehow she developed the inner resources that enabled her to grow into a young woman of courage and integrity.
In the first chapters, we meet Anne and her obnoxious family. We encounter Charles Musgrove, who wanted to marry her – wanted to marry a convenient neighbor of suitable rank who would run his household efficiently and without fuss. We encounter Lady Russell, who tries to manipulate Anne into accepting his proposal. Anne endures a mysterious illness when she sends her to bed with what must have been a migraine to beat all migraines. After some days of agony, she recovers enough to seek fresh air in her mother’s flower garden.
Once recovered, Anne discovers birds, a rabbit, and a dog, have lost their familiar forms and start talking to her! They are dragons. Her world is turned in one of Maria Grace’s favorite phrases for confusion, arsey-varsey.
This book provides the back-story to the next in the series, Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion. All in all, it is worth the time to read and enjoy as an audiobook.
In the first chapters, we meet Anne and her obnoxious family. We encounter Charles Musgrove, who wanted to marry her – wanted to marry a convenient neighbor of suitable rank who would run his household efficiently and without fuss. We encounter Lady Russell, who tries to manipulate Anne into accepting his proposal. Anne endures a mysterious illness when she sends her to bed with what must have been a migraine to beat all migraines. After some days of agony, she recovers enough to seek fresh air in her mother’s flower garden.
Once recovered, Anne discovers birds, a rabbit, and a dog, have lost their familiar forms and start talking to her! They are dragons. Her world is turned in one of Maria Grace’s favorite phrases for confusion, arsey-varsey.
This book provides the back-story to the next in the series, Kellynch: Dragon Persuasion. All in all, it is worth the time to read and enjoy as an audiobook.
May 1, 2020
This is the first part of Maria Grace's Persuasion variation - it's Persuasion, but with added dragons. Since I've already read her Pride and Prejudice variation that begins with Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon, I knew not to expect the full story in one book, but I think knowing that for sure now, I might wait until the story is complete before reading the rest. That being said, this was super fun. Light and fluffy, perfect stay-at-home reading. And now we have sea dragons! And there was a twist I didn't see coming, but makes me a little less annoyed at Anne for having refused Wentworth the first time he asked for her hand (before the beginning of the book).
I hope in the next book we actually get to meet one of the sea dragons as opposed to just learning about them second hand from Captain Wentworth's description.
I hope in the next book we actually get to meet one of the sea dragons as opposed to just learning about them second hand from Captain Wentworth's description.
March 2, 2025
I possibly came at these books in an odd direction, but I had never read any Austen when I started this series. This book changes POV from the earlier books with no warning, but because of common character names, I was very confused at first. Please note: this is 100% on me, lol.
In many ways, I feel like the conceit for these books sprang from Persuasion more than Pride and Prejudice, but that is as close to a spoiler as I am going to give here. This is where I paused reading this series to go read the original Austen novels before coming back.
The main character, Anne, is extremely different than Elizabeth, but it gives an amazing secondary view point into their unique version of the world. In some ways, I actually enjoy this more than Austen's Persuasion, purely for the additional depth you get between Anne and Wentworth. Wentworth absolutely gets the best companion dragon in the series.
The continuing story of The Blue Order as told from the new POV re-engrosses the reader, and keeps the series fresh and exciting. These are extremely easy reads, IMO, and I really cannot recommend them enough. (Even if, as of my writing this, the series is incomplete and I am now anxiously awaiting book 15, whenever it comes our way. Please take all the time you need, Ms. Grace, I am just selfish and impatient!)
In many ways, I feel like the conceit for these books sprang from Persuasion more than Pride and Prejudice, but that is as close to a spoiler as I am going to give here. This is where I paused reading this series to go read the original Austen novels before coming back.
The main character, Anne, is extremely different than Elizabeth, but it gives an amazing secondary view point into their unique version of the world. In some ways, I actually enjoy this more than Austen's Persuasion, purely for the additional depth you get between Anne and Wentworth. Wentworth absolutely gets the best companion dragon in the series.
The continuing story of The Blue Order as told from the new POV re-engrosses the reader, and keeps the series fresh and exciting. These are extremely easy reads, IMO, and I really cannot recommend them enough. (Even if, as of my writing this, the series is incomplete and I am now anxiously awaiting book 15, whenever it comes our way. Please take all the time you need, Ms. Grace, I am just selfish and impatient!)
December 17, 2020
More, I want more! These books are addicting. Not only is the writing wonderful and believable, the narration is a perfect fit. I can’t wait for more.
Ann Elliot discovers that she can hear dragons, and she also learns that her mother’s best friend has a secret. Ann gets to see the sleeping estate dragon, Kellynich. Her father is not pleased with her new abilities, and refuses to introduce her to the Blue Order, which is required. What will she do? She’s also met with marriage proposals that she cannot bring herself to accept. Will she become a spinster?
Frederick Wentworth has found himself a dragon, which he names Laconia, after his ship. He and Laconia get along well. The Blue Order approves of the match.
Will fate reunite Ann and Frederick? Will Kellynich, the dragon, accept Ann as a junior keeper? I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens.
This book provides such a wonderful blend of Austen and fantasy. The classic and the new flow seamlessly together. I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the narrator. I thank him for his generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Ann Elliot discovers that she can hear dragons, and she also learns that her mother’s best friend has a secret. Ann gets to see the sleeping estate dragon, Kellynich. Her father is not pleased with her new abilities, and refuses to introduce her to the Blue Order, which is required. What will she do? She’s also met with marriage proposals that she cannot bring herself to accept. Will she become a spinster?
Frederick Wentworth has found himself a dragon, which he names Laconia, after his ship. He and Laconia get along well. The Blue Order approves of the match.
Will fate reunite Ann and Frederick? Will Kellynich, the dragon, accept Ann as a junior keeper? I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens.
This book provides such a wonderful blend of Austen and fantasy. The classic and the new flow seamlessly together. I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the narrator. I thank him for his generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
December 15, 2020
This is the fifth book I have read/listened to by this author (all were in this series) and I would listen to another. I am enjoying how she has tweaked Jane Austen’s story to include the dragons. The first book follows the original story’s wording quite closely in parts and each subsequent one has taken portions of it and expanded. I love how she has been, even after this many books, able to still use the basis of the original story to go forward with the dragon concept.——-
I look forward to listening to this entire series series. ——-
This is the eleventh book I have listened to by this narrator ( Benjamin Fife ). He has now become synonymous with these characters for me. I like his interpretation of the dragon voices and he does very well with both male and female character voices. His tone of voice and slight accent is perfect for these pre-Victorian era stories. ——-
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 5/5
I look forward to listening to this entire series series. ——-
This is the eleventh book I have listened to by this narrator ( Benjamin Fife ). He has now become synonymous with these characters for me. I like his interpretation of the dragon voices and he does very well with both male and female character voices. His tone of voice and slight accent is perfect for these pre-Victorian era stories. ——-
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 5/5
November 18, 2020
I looked forward to this next book in this series, and I'm glad to say it lived up to my expectations. In this variation on Persusaion, Anne is given the opportunity to grow and find her own way in the world without necessarily depending on others, thanks to the possibilities that dragons offer. It's interesting to see the differences between her and the previous protagonist Elizabeth, despite their similar situations with family, dragon, and money troubles.
I would say that overall the dragon characters don't feel quite as prominent here as they do in the previous volumes, but I think that's mostly down to the protagonist's different circumstances. And when the dragon characters do show up, they're as memorable as always, brought to life with Fife's narration. I'm looking forward to his reading of the next book!
I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I would say that overall the dragon characters don't feel quite as prominent here as they do in the previous volumes, but I think that's mostly down to the protagonist's different circumstances. And when the dragon characters do show up, they're as memorable as always, brought to life with Fife's narration. I'm looking forward to his reading of the next book!
I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 19, 2020
FAMILY CAN BE TRYING AND NEGLECTFUL
This story takes place away from London and sets the stage for Anne, a woman who begins to hear dragons at a late stage in life, twenty-two. She is a woman who was convinced not to marry the man she loved and has regretted it. Wentworth, the man Anne loved, has become a sailor and is doing well. He finds a friend, dragon, and imprints with him.
Meanwhile, Anne is being tormented by her older sister, Elizabeth, and her father who refused to be the Keeper for his land’s dragon. The dragon has gone into hibernation because he is upset and the family stands to lose their holdings. Anne is presented with dictates by the heir of the property that she refuses for propriety’s sake and the book is left with a cliff-hanger as to what is to become of the family’s properties and Anne.
This story takes place away from London and sets the stage for Anne, a woman who begins to hear dragons at a late stage in life, twenty-two. She is a woman who was convinced not to marry the man she loved and has regretted it. Wentworth, the man Anne loved, has become a sailor and is doing well. He finds a friend, dragon, and imprints with him.
Meanwhile, Anne is being tormented by her older sister, Elizabeth, and her father who refused to be the Keeper for his land’s dragon. The dragon has gone into hibernation because he is upset and the family stands to lose their holdings. Anne is presented with dictates by the heir of the property that she refuses for propriety’s sake and the book is left with a cliff-hanger as to what is to become of the family’s properties and Anne.
July 12, 2020
Dragons required
Let me clarify to start with, I do not, as a rule, care for Jane Austen retellings. I'm okay with the originals, but have never been a devotee.
Adding dragons changes everything!
As I read this one, I kept thinking that makes sense. Especially casting Lady Russell as a dragon. How apropos!
Out of all Austen tales, Persuasion is my favorite. I love Anne and her second chances at joy, love and success. Seeing it in a dragon world seems both logical and sensible. It provides solid reasoning for many of the traditions and mores of the time. I like, too, that Maria Grace is giving us more of the story background from a time before the Elliots had to "retrench".
I am looking forward to the continuation of this tale... And more dragons!
Let me clarify to start with, I do not, as a rule, care for Jane Austen retellings. I'm okay with the originals, but have never been a devotee.
Adding dragons changes everything!
As I read this one, I kept thinking that makes sense. Especially casting Lady Russell as a dragon. How apropos!
Out of all Austen tales, Persuasion is my favorite. I love Anne and her second chances at joy, love and success. Seeing it in a dragon world seems both logical and sensible. It provides solid reasoning for many of the traditions and mores of the time. I like, too, that Maria Grace is giving us more of the story background from a time before the Elliots had to "retrench".
I am looking forward to the continuation of this tale... And more dragons!
June 9, 2021
The author and Narrator continues to do a great job on this series.
The author makes this book very detailed and brings the story into your mind with each detail. There are others in the series that do help when reading this book (and the next one of course).
The narrator brings each character to life with each of their tones being different from each other.
I got a free audio book and am very grateful that I was able to get it. These are my own thoughts that in no reflect whether I get something free or pay for it.
I listened to this and the next one in the series a while ago and lost what I had written out in my computer cause it broke, tried to get it fixed but sadly all those reviews I had saved are gone, so I can't remember all of what I wrote sadly.
The author makes this book very detailed and brings the story into your mind with each detail. There are others in the series that do help when reading this book (and the next one of course).
The narrator brings each character to life with each of their tones being different from each other.
I got a free audio book and am very grateful that I was able to get it. These are my own thoughts that in no reflect whether I get something free or pay for it.
I listened to this and the next one in the series a while ago and lost what I had written out in my computer cause it broke, tried to get it fixed but sadly all those reviews I had saved are gone, so I can't remember all of what I wrote sadly.
December 11, 2020
I am often reminded by reading books, how the life of all females have changed, over the past 200 years. Without independent thinking and acting women, how are lives could be very different.
Yes, this is a story of such a strong willed young woman, but she has another new ability, that of 'hearing' dragons.
I was confused when I started this book, with the names of the daughters the same as the Bennett sisters. However, the Elliott family is very different from those we met in other episodes of this series, although the thing to tie this story to the previous is the "Hearing" of dragons.
This is a cliffhanger, in so far as it doesn't resolve all issues in this episode.
Yes, this is a story of such a strong willed young woman, but she has another new ability, that of 'hearing' dragons.
I was confused when I started this book, with the names of the daughters the same as the Bennett sisters. However, the Elliott family is very different from those we met in other episodes of this series, although the thing to tie this story to the previous is the "Hearing" of dragons.
This is a cliffhanger, in so far as it doesn't resolve all issues in this episode.
April 1, 2021
The addition of dragons to another Jane Austen story makes for great entertainment. As I have been listening to the entire series of books in order, it took me a bit to adjust to the change of characters. I didn’t read the description ahead of time to know there was a new storyline.
Maria Grace continues to entertain with her lovely stories. I love the whole idea of dragons and a secret society that interacts with them.
Benjamin Fife really knows how to bring a story to life. I thoroughly enjoy all his different voices for the characters.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Maria Grace continues to entertain with her lovely stories. I love the whole idea of dragons and a secret society that interacts with them.
Benjamin Fife really knows how to bring a story to life. I thoroughly enjoy all his different voices for the characters.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
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