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Jane Austen's Dragons #4
A Proper Introduction to Dragons
Nobody had any compassion for dragon lore expert Thomas Bennet’s nerves.
He was reconciled to the fact he was father to some of the silliest girls in the country. However, he had suspected for some time that little Elizabeth was different. When she befriended the old tatzelwurm in the woods, he was convinced.
As much as her father might rant and storm about the need for secrecy and expect that to be the end of it, Elizabeth cannot contain her curiosity about all things dragonic. Nor, would it seem, could she stem the development of her unique and prodigious talent for bonding with the creatures.
When Elizabeth discovers an abandoned clutch of fairy dragon eggs, Mr. Bennet finds an unhappy alternative before him. Somehow, he must save the dragon eggs, contend with the jealous estate dragon, and keep it all hidden from his family……or risk exposure of England’s greatest secret and the breaking of the Pendragon Treaty that keeps the tenuous peace between man and dragon.
And through it all, can he help his precocious, passionate daughter find her place in a dangerous world that little tolerance for little girls.
Jane Austen meets Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern. A must read for Pern fans.
He was reconciled to the fact he was father to some of the silliest girls in the country. However, he had suspected for some time that little Elizabeth was different. When she befriended the old tatzelwurm in the woods, he was convinced.
As much as her father might rant and storm about the need for secrecy and expect that to be the end of it, Elizabeth cannot contain her curiosity about all things dragonic. Nor, would it seem, could she stem the development of her unique and prodigious talent for bonding with the creatures.
When Elizabeth discovers an abandoned clutch of fairy dragon eggs, Mr. Bennet finds an unhappy alternative before him. Somehow, he must save the dragon eggs, contend with the jealous estate dragon, and keep it all hidden from his family……or risk exposure of England’s greatest secret and the breaking of the Pendragon Treaty that keeps the tenuous peace between man and dragon.
And through it all, can he help his precocious, passionate daughter find her place in a dangerous world that little tolerance for little girls.
Jane Austen meets Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern. A must read for Pern fans.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2018
359 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
About the author
Maria Grace
100 books320 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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July 25, 2018
“Never laugh at live dragons.” –J.R.R. Tolkien
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail
Book 3: Netherfield: Rogue Dragon
A Proper Introduction to Dragons
I don’t know if this is considered a prequel or just a backstory. I followed [and loved] this as a WIP [work-in-progress] on Maria Grace’s website and loved it. I pre-ordered it as soon as it hit the market. It is the perfect accompaniment to the trilogy. There was just so much that needed to be told that was not in the three books. It can be read anytime during or after the trilogy and I think could do well as a stand-a-lone. Having already read the trilogy… I may be biased. However, there is information in this story that will aid in a reader’s enjoyment of the other books.
“I desired dragons with a profound desire.” –C.S. Lewis, Of Other Worlds: Essays and Stories
Elizabeth Bennet is unique to both the human species and to dragon-kind. No one knew that she could hear until she was 4-years-old and approached her uncle’s dragon friend for conversation. She simply draws dragons to her naturally. Her innate abilities to know just what to do, what to say and how to act is amazing. She is the ultimate person that thinks outside the box… rather, she thinks dragon. She lives, eats and breaths dragons. Her commonplace book [journal] is full of her findings, what she hears from conversations with dragons, what she observes, her own experiments with any item she gleams or finds out about that pertains to dragons. She is simply a wonder and yet, we have to remember she is still a child.
“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
Mr. Bennet is even worse than canon. He is so absorbed with his quest for the position of Historian for the Blue Order [governing body over anything dragon] that he restricts Elizabeth at every turn. He and Lizzy are the only family members that hear dragons at this time. It is apparent that Jane does not hear and certainly Mrs. Bennet does not hear. It is too soon to know regarding the younger girls. This being ‘dragon deaf’ has created problems on many levels for Mr. Bennet and his position in the Blue Order.
“But it is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
We have Elizabeth’s POV so we have to remember that this story is child centered. I like how her mind works as she reasons out her problems and her feelings that many of the family’s problems are caused by her actions. I liked how the author used Lizzy’s self-talk and inner reflections to take the reader through the problems within the family. As the reader… I caught nuances that the child Lizzy would miss. A statement might go over her head… but it didn’t go over mine. That was so creative on the author’s part. I was given information that made me sit up and go… oh-oh… I saw that. Oh, Mr. Bennet… what did you do? I had to laugh out loud.
“Always speak politely to an enraged dragon.” –Steven Brust, Jhereg
Lizzy was fearless where dragons were concerned and they were naturally intrigued with her. This work is amazing as the author does the most minute thing that turns out to be so profound. I just loved this whole series and this younger Lizzy was so precious, naïve and innocent while being absolutely profound where dragons were concerned. I think the dragons respected her far more than her own father.
“Dragons and legends … It would have been difficult for any man not to want to fight beside a dragon.” –Patricia Briggs, Dragon Blood
I highly recommend this body of work for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love of fantastic creatures.
Book 1: Pemberley: Mr. Darcy’s Dragon
Book 2: Longbourn: Dragon Entail
Book 3: Netherfield: Rogue Dragon
A Proper Introduction to Dragons
I don’t know if this is considered a prequel or just a backstory. I followed [and loved] this as a WIP [work-in-progress] on Maria Grace’s website and loved it. I pre-ordered it as soon as it hit the market. It is the perfect accompaniment to the trilogy. There was just so much that needed to be told that was not in the three books. It can be read anytime during or after the trilogy and I think could do well as a stand-a-lone. Having already read the trilogy… I may be biased. However, there is information in this story that will aid in a reader’s enjoyment of the other books.
“I desired dragons with a profound desire.” –C.S. Lewis, Of Other Worlds: Essays and Stories
Elizabeth Bennet is unique to both the human species and to dragon-kind. No one knew that she could hear until she was 4-years-old and approached her uncle’s dragon friend for conversation. She simply draws dragons to her naturally. Her innate abilities to know just what to do, what to say and how to act is amazing. She is the ultimate person that thinks outside the box… rather, she thinks dragon. She lives, eats and breaths dragons. Her commonplace book [journal] is full of her findings, what she hears from conversations with dragons, what she observes, her own experiments with any item she gleams or finds out about that pertains to dragons. She is simply a wonder and yet, we have to remember she is still a child.
“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
Mr. Bennet is even worse than canon. He is so absorbed with his quest for the position of Historian for the Blue Order [governing body over anything dragon] that he restricts Elizabeth at every turn. He and Lizzy are the only family members that hear dragons at this time. It is apparent that Jane does not hear and certainly Mrs. Bennet does not hear. It is too soon to know regarding the younger girls. This being ‘dragon deaf’ has created problems on many levels for Mr. Bennet and his position in the Blue Order.
“But it is one thing to read about dragons and another to meet them.” –Ursula K. Le Guin, A Wizard of Earthsea
We have Elizabeth’s POV so we have to remember that this story is child centered. I like how her mind works as she reasons out her problems and her feelings that many of the family’s problems are caused by her actions. I liked how the author used Lizzy’s self-talk and inner reflections to take the reader through the problems within the family. As the reader… I caught nuances that the child Lizzy would miss. A statement might go over her head… but it didn’t go over mine. That was so creative on the author’s part. I was given information that made me sit up and go… oh-oh… I saw that. Oh, Mr. Bennet… what did you do? I had to laugh out loud.
“Always speak politely to an enraged dragon.” –Steven Brust, Jhereg
Lizzy was fearless where dragons were concerned and they were naturally intrigued with her. This work is amazing as the author does the most minute thing that turns out to be so profound. I just loved this whole series and this younger Lizzy was so precious, naïve and innocent while being absolutely profound where dragons were concerned. I think the dragons respected her far more than her own father.
“Dragons and legends … It would have been difficult for any man not to want to fight beside a dragon.” –Patricia Briggs, Dragon Blood
I highly recommend this body of work for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love of fantastic creatures.
July 22, 2018
Delightful story of a young Elizabeth Bennet (age 12), who loves dragons more than anything. She and Jane are the only two Bennet sisters out of the nursery, though neither is "out" yet. Very little of the story involves Elizabeth's interactions with any of her sisters, though.
Instead, we have a very crusty and arthritic Mr. Bennet who uses his young dragon-hearing daughter as his scribe, taking her with him when he must travel on Blue Order business. We learn how Elizabeth first meets the equally crusty Longbourn, the estate dragon, and becomes Dragon Friend to April, the little fairy dragon. Most importantly, this is the tale of how Elizabeth earns her entry into the Order.
It's a charming story that's a worthy Prelude to the other books in Ms. Grace's Jane Austen's Dragons series.
Instead, we have a very crusty and arthritic Mr. Bennet who uses his young dragon-hearing daughter as his scribe, taking her with him when he must travel on Blue Order business. We learn how Elizabeth first meets the equally crusty Longbourn, the estate dragon, and becomes Dragon Friend to April, the little fairy dragon. Most importantly, this is the tale of how Elizabeth earns her entry into the Order.
It's a charming story that's a worthy Prelude to the other books in Ms. Grace's Jane Austen's Dragons series.
August 16, 2020
I read the first three books in this series and then just never got around to reading this one. However when I won copies of book 5 and book 6 I had to read this before proceeding.
This is more or less a flash back as we read about 11, and then 12, year old Elizabeth Bennet, who from an early age has been able to "hear" dragons. As the story proceeds Elizabeth is befriended by a newborn fairy dragon when the eggs she saves are taken to another family and her father insists she travel with him for the delivery as she acts as his scribe due to his failing joints.
So the story introduces Elizabeth (and us, the readers) to various types on dragons, their personalities and their history and their physical descriptions. Dragons seem to sense Elizabeth's interest in and friendliness to the whole line of dragons and some even introduce themselves to her, which is rather an almost forbidden act.
The Blue Order of Dragons insists that Elizabeth apply for membership as she has been introduced to these dragons and the suspense is whether she can learn all that is required and if not, will she damage her father's chances to become the Historian of the Blue Order.
Maria Grace researched the topic of dragons and has shared a lot of this information on several blogs. She is always offering us new information from history and/or literature.
I highly recommend this whole series of stories.
This is more or less a flash back as we read about 11, and then 12, year old Elizabeth Bennet, who from an early age has been able to "hear" dragons. As the story proceeds Elizabeth is befriended by a newborn fairy dragon when the eggs she saves are taken to another family and her father insists she travel with him for the delivery as she acts as his scribe due to his failing joints.
So the story introduces Elizabeth (and us, the readers) to various types on dragons, their personalities and their history and their physical descriptions. Dragons seem to sense Elizabeth's interest in and friendliness to the whole line of dragons and some even introduce themselves to her, which is rather an almost forbidden act.
The Blue Order of Dragons insists that Elizabeth apply for membership as she has been introduced to these dragons and the suspense is whether she can learn all that is required and if not, will she damage her father's chances to become the Historian of the Blue Order.
Maria Grace researched the topic of dragons and has shared a lot of this information on several blogs. She is always offering us new information from history and/or literature.
I highly recommend this whole series of stories.
March 29, 2023
Back to where it all began when a young girl heard and saw dragons for the first time. Wonder and a gift that few 'warm bloods' possess lead intrepid Elizabeth Bennet on her first forays into the dragon world and complications ensue for her scholarly father.
A Proper Introduction to Dragons falls chronologically as the first entry in the Jane Austen's Dragons world, but came after the first few books in release order. I read it after finishing book five and thought it would be okay to read it at any point the reader wished. I think I got more out of it having it after meeting Elizabeth as an adult so all she could do came as a delightful surprise for me as well as Darcy.
The story begins when Elizabeth is young and Maria Grace captured the voice and thoughts of a young girl well. She notices much including her parents' stressful marriage, how she is looked on as the odd child, and how her gift changes the whole path of her life. Her father shares her ability to see and hear dragons, but not her deep connection to the fantastic race. His preference is academic knowledge so he treats her as an oddity in the same way of her mama who doesn't know about dragons.
I enjoyed seeing how it all got started and how she met each dragon and who became major players in her life.
Definitely a worthy read for any series fan adding the details of Elizabeth and her dragon friends' backstory.
A Proper Introduction to Dragons falls chronologically as the first entry in the Jane Austen's Dragons world, but came after the first few books in release order. I read it after finishing book five and thought it would be okay to read it at any point the reader wished. I think I got more out of it having it after meeting Elizabeth as an adult so all she could do came as a delightful surprise for me as well as Darcy.
The story begins when Elizabeth is young and Maria Grace captured the voice and thoughts of a young girl well. She notices much including her parents' stressful marriage, how she is looked on as the odd child, and how her gift changes the whole path of her life. Her father shares her ability to see and hear dragons, but not her deep connection to the fantastic race. His preference is academic knowledge so he treats her as an oddity in the same way of her mama who doesn't know about dragons.
I enjoyed seeing how it all got started and how she met each dragon and who became major players in her life.
Definitely a worthy read for any series fan adding the details of Elizabeth and her dragon friends' backstory.
January 21, 2025
Meet the young Elizabeth Bennet and enter her world of Dragons
This is book four of Maria Grace's Jane Austen's Dragons series. Although released fourth, as a flashback to events occurring in the first three books, it would be ideal to read first. It combines a Pride and Prejudice variation, with fantasy about dragons. It will appeal to both JAFF readers and fans of fantasy.
The series starts in Georgian England, where dragons and people live side by side. However, most people are entirely unaware. Only those with preternatural hearing can perceive them.
All others are "dragon deaf". To them, dragons appear as cats, birds or other creatures, their perception influenced by the dragons, to allow them to blend in and hide in plain sight.
The ability to hear dragons, usually manifests at around fifteen, at which point induction into the Blue Order is mandatory. The Blue Order controls the world of Dragons and those who interact with them.
Elizabeth Bennet is very special. She started to hear and talk to dragons from the age of four. When we meet her, she is eleven and being introduced to working with dragons, by her grumpy, traditionalist father, Thomas Bennet. He is the Keeper of Longbourn, the dragon. This means he is somewhat like a steward, to the dragon that owns the Longbourn estate.
Elizabeth is drawn to dragons and they to her. Her easy relationships and instinctive knowledge of how best to interact with dragons, vexes her father. He does not think her behaviour proper or as expected by the Blue Order. He will not admit it, but he is jealous of her skills.
We follow the story from Elizabeth's POV, seeing her delight in her new dragon friends and her unhappiness at some of her father's action and attitudes. Will she be prepared for what is to come?
The story focusses on Elizabeth, Mr Bennet and the many dragons. Although the rest of the Bennets are included, they are rather peripheral. Mr Bennet is very much the traditionist curmudgeon. In Elizabeth, we can see the feisty, fearless woman we know Elizabeth Bennet will become. The dragon characters are well drawn and engaging.
This whole series is narrated by Benjamin Fife. His narration is very good, his voice warm and pleasing to listen to. His female voices are convincing and his dragon voices are excellent.
This is a delightful story. It is well paced and comes to a satisfying conclusion. I would recommend it to all fans of JAFF and fantasy, including younger readers.
I look forward to more stories by Maria Grace.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
This is book four of Maria Grace's Jane Austen's Dragons series. Although released fourth, as a flashback to events occurring in the first three books, it would be ideal to read first. It combines a Pride and Prejudice variation, with fantasy about dragons. It will appeal to both JAFF readers and fans of fantasy.
The series starts in Georgian England, where dragons and people live side by side. However, most people are entirely unaware. Only those with preternatural hearing can perceive them.
All others are "dragon deaf". To them, dragons appear as cats, birds or other creatures, their perception influenced by the dragons, to allow them to blend in and hide in plain sight.
The ability to hear dragons, usually manifests at around fifteen, at which point induction into the Blue Order is mandatory. The Blue Order controls the world of Dragons and those who interact with them.
Elizabeth Bennet is very special. She started to hear and talk to dragons from the age of four. When we meet her, she is eleven and being introduced to working with dragons, by her grumpy, traditionalist father, Thomas Bennet. He is the Keeper of Longbourn, the dragon. This means he is somewhat like a steward, to the dragon that owns the Longbourn estate.
Elizabeth is drawn to dragons and they to her. Her easy relationships and instinctive knowledge of how best to interact with dragons, vexes her father. He does not think her behaviour proper or as expected by the Blue Order. He will not admit it, but he is jealous of her skills.
We follow the story from Elizabeth's POV, seeing her delight in her new dragon friends and her unhappiness at some of her father's action and attitudes. Will she be prepared for what is to come?
The story focusses on Elizabeth, Mr Bennet and the many dragons. Although the rest of the Bennets are included, they are rather peripheral. Mr Bennet is very much the traditionist curmudgeon. In Elizabeth, we can see the feisty, fearless woman we know Elizabeth Bennet will become. The dragon characters are well drawn and engaging.
This whole series is narrated by Benjamin Fife. His narration is very good, his voice warm and pleasing to listen to. His female voices are convincing and his dragon voices are excellent.
This is a delightful story. It is well paced and comes to a satisfying conclusion. I would recommend it to all fans of JAFF and fantasy, including younger readers.
I look forward to more stories by Maria Grace.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
January 30, 2022
As far as I am concerned, JA must have forgot to put the dragons in the original P & P. They certainly belong there. I hope the author never stops writing this storyline. I usually stay away from your E or D stories but this was magical.
Reread: Yes, I usually dislike E or D stories of their youth before they met but I loved this one.
Reread: I am reading the series again and think this book might be my favorite of all of them. It is so charming.
Reread: Yes, I usually dislike E or D stories of their youth before they met but I loved this one.
Reread: I am reading the series again and think this book might be my favorite of all of them. It is so charming.
June 13, 2019
This is a JAFF fantasy Pride and Prejudice prequel, featuring Elizabeth Bennet from eleven to twelve years of age as she grows into her ability to hear and interact with dragons. The story takes place in a Georgian England in which dragons live. Lots of dragons, of various types drawn from dragon legends and mythology, with varying temperaments, and coming in all sizes. But only a fraction of the population are even aware of them, because not all people can hear dragons speak, and dragons have a power of suggestion that allows them to convince those who can't hear them that they are not dragons but other more ordinary creatures like hummingbirds, cats, falcons, pigeons, and so forth.
There is a governing body that manages the relationships of dragons to mankind under a many hundreds of years old treaty known as the Pendragon Treaty. The governing body is known as the Blue Order.
Most important to Lizzy and her father is the large "landed" dragon, Longbourn, to whom her father is Keeper. Longbourn lives hidden away in a cavern on Mr. Bennet's estate. Of all Mr. Bennet's children, Lizzy is the only one so far who is able to hear dragons, an ability discovered very early, when she began to interact with her Uncle Gardiner's cockatrice, Rustle, at the age of four. Most dragon hearers don't come into their ability until around 15. At this point, Lizzy seems destined to inherit the position of Longbourn's Keeper, a complicated matter since the estate is entailed and destined to become the property of a distant male cousin of whom little is known as yet by the Bennets.
Soon after the story begins, one of the smaller dragons living in the nearby woods befriends Lizzy and leads her to an abandoned fairy dragon nest. She rescues the tiny eggs, planning to keep them safe until they hatch, a plan which, when her father learns of it, causes him great consternation. As the story goes on we learn what far reaching effects such a seemingly simple thing as protecting some tiny dragon eggs can have on the lives of everyone around her but most importantly on Lizzy herself.
This is a delightful story and would be appropriate for young readers as well as grownups. I loved how the author portrayed Elizabeth Bennet as a young girl, and I found that I kept thinking about the Rice Portrait, which is believed to be Jane Austen herself at the age of 12, with her impish smile and twinkling dark eyes.
I've been a fan of Anne McCaffrey's dragon stories for as long as I've been married, since I discovered Dragonflight among my husband's books soon after we moved in together. These stories bring back the same charming kind of relationship between human and mythical beast that I have delighted in in those tales, and while the setting and lifestyles of these dragons and humans differ, they also tie into my other love, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and all the related JAFF.
This prequel is a standalone, with a three-book series that follows it, which is a Pride and Prejudice variation set in this unique fictional world. Highly recommended.
There is a governing body that manages the relationships of dragons to mankind under a many hundreds of years old treaty known as the Pendragon Treaty. The governing body is known as the Blue Order.
Most important to Lizzy and her father is the large "landed" dragon, Longbourn, to whom her father is Keeper. Longbourn lives hidden away in a cavern on Mr. Bennet's estate. Of all Mr. Bennet's children, Lizzy is the only one so far who is able to hear dragons, an ability discovered very early, when she began to interact with her Uncle Gardiner's cockatrice, Rustle, at the age of four. Most dragon hearers don't come into their ability until around 15. At this point, Lizzy seems destined to inherit the position of Longbourn's Keeper, a complicated matter since the estate is entailed and destined to become the property of a distant male cousin of whom little is known as yet by the Bennets.
Soon after the story begins, one of the smaller dragons living in the nearby woods befriends Lizzy and leads her to an abandoned fairy dragon nest. She rescues the tiny eggs, planning to keep them safe until they hatch, a plan which, when her father learns of it, causes him great consternation. As the story goes on we learn what far reaching effects such a seemingly simple thing as protecting some tiny dragon eggs can have on the lives of everyone around her but most importantly on Lizzy herself.
This is a delightful story and would be appropriate for young readers as well as grownups. I loved how the author portrayed Elizabeth Bennet as a young girl, and I found that I kept thinking about the Rice Portrait, which is believed to be Jane Austen herself at the age of 12, with her impish smile and twinkling dark eyes.
I've been a fan of Anne McCaffrey's dragon stories for as long as I've been married, since I discovered Dragonflight among my husband's books soon after we moved in together. These stories bring back the same charming kind of relationship between human and mythical beast that I have delighted in in those tales, and while the setting and lifestyles of these dragons and humans differ, they also tie into my other love, Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and all the related JAFF.
This prequel is a standalone, with a three-book series that follows it, which is a Pride and Prejudice variation set in this unique fictional world. Highly recommended.
May 18, 2020
My Rating: 4.5* rounded up to 5*
Do you hear dragons?
Elizabeth Bennet does at a very young age. She is unique in her instinctive ability to relate to them. Mr. Bennet has nurtured her interest but only when it comes to helping him scribe his documents. She is too young to be recognized for abilities and females do not hold the same place as men in the Blue Order. He is also frustrated that he cannot contain her natural curiosity and obey his dictates. Trouble and dragons are drawn to her. And when she starts questioning dragon lore, well that is not to be borne!
"...was it conceivable that dragon lore might not be entirely correct?" (quote from the book)
This may be book four in the Jane Austen's Dragons Books, but it can be considered a prequel to the first three in the series...a delightful and informative one! I loved seeing Elizabeth as a child and her respect and love of all things dragonic. I loved how her character is set...'obstinate, headstrong girl' indeed!
It was such a joy being back in Jane Austen's dragon world! Honestly, these books should be made into a Netflix series! Each book a new season. If they can do, Pride, Prejudice and Zombies, they can do this. I definitely think there would be a wide audience that would love it!
Do you hear dragons?
Elizabeth Bennet does at a very young age. She is unique in her instinctive ability to relate to them. Mr. Bennet has nurtured her interest but only when it comes to helping him scribe his documents. She is too young to be recognized for abilities and females do not hold the same place as men in the Blue Order. He is also frustrated that he cannot contain her natural curiosity and obey his dictates. Trouble and dragons are drawn to her. And when she starts questioning dragon lore, well that is not to be borne!
"...was it conceivable that dragon lore might not be entirely correct?" (quote from the book)
This may be book four in the Jane Austen's Dragons Books, but it can be considered a prequel to the first three in the series...a delightful and informative one! I loved seeing Elizabeth as a child and her respect and love of all things dragonic. I loved how her character is set...'obstinate, headstrong girl' indeed!
It was such a joy being back in Jane Austen's dragon world! Honestly, these books should be made into a Netflix series! Each book a new season. If they can do, Pride, Prejudice and Zombies, they can do this. I definitely think there would be a wide audience that would love it!
December 24, 2024
This fourth book in Maria Grace's wonderfully delightful Jane Austen's Dragons series is actually a prequel to the three previous books based on Austen's Pride and Prejudice...and featuring dragons!
Here we see Elizabeth as a child, first writing in her new commonplace book about the dragons she meets, as well as information about dragons, etc. We also discover how Elizabeth meets and is chosen by her fairy dragon Friend, April--and how much trouble this caused her father.
Mr. Bennet is a major player in this book as well as the other series, and here we see how although he needed Elizabeth's help with taking notes and writing correspondence, he also resents her easy way with dragons. Every dragon she meets is a friend, including a basilisk! And we even get to see Elizabeth's first meeting of the estate dragon, Longbourn, and their easy befriending.
If you haven't read this series at all, I strongly advise starting with A Proper Introduction to Dragons, then reading Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon, then Longbourn: Dragon Entail, and then Netherfield: Rogue Dragon.
Who would have thought that Jane Austen and dragons could create such a seamless set of stories? We must credit Maria Grace's meticulous research into dragon legends the world over, plus her lovely depiction of Jane Austen's beloved characters, which, together, create a fascinating fantasy world of dragons as a real (yet partly invisible) part of life in Regency England.
Here we see Elizabeth as a child, first writing in her new commonplace book about the dragons she meets, as well as information about dragons, etc. We also discover how Elizabeth meets and is chosen by her fairy dragon Friend, April--and how much trouble this caused her father.
Mr. Bennet is a major player in this book as well as the other series, and here we see how although he needed Elizabeth's help with taking notes and writing correspondence, he also resents her easy way with dragons. Every dragon she meets is a friend, including a basilisk! And we even get to see Elizabeth's first meeting of the estate dragon, Longbourn, and their easy befriending.
If you haven't read this series at all, I strongly advise starting with A Proper Introduction to Dragons, then reading Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon, then Longbourn: Dragon Entail, and then Netherfield: Rogue Dragon.
Who would have thought that Jane Austen and dragons could create such a seamless set of stories? We must credit Maria Grace's meticulous research into dragon legends the world over, plus her lovely depiction of Jane Austen's beloved characters, which, together, create a fascinating fantasy world of dragons as a real (yet partly invisible) part of life in Regency England.
May 20, 2020
Aptly named, this book is, in fact, a most proper introduction to dragons.
As always, Benjamin Fife gives us a fantastic audio performance. His voices are varied and distinct, with even his female voices being believable. His tempo shifts are nigh on perfect, and his voice inflections are excellent.
Here we are introduced to an eleven-year-old Elizabeth Bennett who is almost obsessively fascinated by all things dragon and questions everything the books tell her about dragons.
All the more so when her experience directly contradicts those books.
She doesn't really read like an eleven-year-old, but I can overlook that as her being overly mature for her age. Especially as it's been made very clear from minute one that Elizabeth is not like other people.
In strong counterpoint to a great many prequel stories, what we have here is a fully realized, fully satisfying story that doesn't lean over-heavily on the main series to make sense or feel complete.
Although the writing does come across as quite archaic, the author is clearly modeling Jane Austen's style and does so quite successfully.
There are several climaxes as we approach the end of the story, and the final climax brings everything to a neat close while opening the main plot that leads us through the main series.
Excellently done.
As always, Benjamin Fife gives us a fantastic audio performance. His voices are varied and distinct, with even his female voices being believable. His tempo shifts are nigh on perfect, and his voice inflections are excellent.
Here we are introduced to an eleven-year-old Elizabeth Bennett who is almost obsessively fascinated by all things dragon and questions everything the books tell her about dragons.
All the more so when her experience directly contradicts those books.
She doesn't really read like an eleven-year-old, but I can overlook that as her being overly mature for her age. Especially as it's been made very clear from minute one that Elizabeth is not like other people.
In strong counterpoint to a great many prequel stories, what we have here is a fully realized, fully satisfying story that doesn't lean over-heavily on the main series to make sense or feel complete.
Although the writing does come across as quite archaic, the author is clearly modeling Jane Austen's style and does so quite successfully.
There are several climaxes as we approach the end of the story, and the final climax brings everything to a neat close while opening the main plot that leads us through the main series.
Excellently done.
March 16, 2020
Fun read
This is a wonderful introduction to the world of dragons and Elizabeth Bennet's place in this world. This book is a fanciful read and Lizzy is an amazing dragon charmer. It was interesting to see Lizzy at a much younger age, yet her character is already well defined. This book although it is book four in the Dragons series is a great way to start the series.
This is a wonderful introduction to the world of dragons and Elizabeth Bennet's place in this world. This book is a fanciful read and Lizzy is an amazing dragon charmer. It was interesting to see Lizzy at a much younger age, yet her character is already well defined. This book although it is book four in the Dragons series is a great way to start the series.
January 9, 2023
Really exciting and fun. About Elizabeth's adventures first learning about and growing up with dragons. Reads very well as a stand alone.
February 14, 2021
Yes it does say book 4 but really it should be book 1, there is so much information and history to begin the series and I found it so helpful as the title suggests. I just LOVE this series, do you know I have listened to the whole series over and over (Audible) and still I find it all fascinating. The narrator is a gem and he breaths life into all the characters whether they have skin, scales or feathers. This series is worthy of your book shelf and favorite list
July 22, 2018
Wonderful!!
I really enjoyed this story that allows us to get some perspective into the world inhabited by humans and dragons.
Highly recommended!!!
I really enjoyed this story that allows us to get some perspective into the world inhabited by humans and dragons.
Highly recommended!!!
August 1, 2018
What an interesting and creative plot. The story is believable and engaging. Looking forward to reading the series!
December 13, 2019
While this is technically listed as the last/final book in this quartet, and I read it last ... it is a prequel to the others, featuring a young (tween) Elizabeth, her intro to dragons. I do wonder if I would have preferred to read this first, have this the first in the series? I guess it works either way.
It was fun to not only have the addition of dragons, but to get a peek at Elizabeth in her younger years. Still struggling a bit with Mr. Bennett being so crotchety in this series. I'm SO glad I was introduced to this author and these fun books (got the first one in audio through AudibleBookBoom and the read the rest on Kindle Unlmited).
It was fun to not only have the addition of dragons, but to get a peek at Elizabeth in her younger years. Still struggling a bit with Mr. Bennett being so crotchety in this series. I'm SO glad I was introduced to this author and these fun books (got the first one in audio through AudibleBookBoom and the read the rest on Kindle Unlmited).
November 13, 2018
Awesome. Wonderfully perfect fantastically magical story. Incredibly well written story, reminds me of the Harry Potter series. Would love more stories in this series. Can’t say enough good things about this book. I read the first 3 books and loved them. This is a prequel and worth every penny and more.
Thank you for a wonderful story and I highly recommend reading this.
Thank you for a wonderful story and I highly recommend reading this.
October 4, 2022
A worthy prequel that delivers a light toned and fascinating first step in this England populated by dragons and keepers.
September 16, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book as a free review copy from the narrator. Thank you very much.
The story: A prequel to book 1 discussing how Elizabeth met April and Longbourn and how she came to be a member of the Blue Order.
This was a fun story. You get a good look into young Elizabeth's mind and see how she began studying dragons so carefully and working out how to properly communicate with them,. I think it would work just as well if read before the other books as it does when read after.
The narrator: As usual Benjamin Fife knocks it out of the park with his performance! I've said this in previous reviews but his character voices are a joy to listen to and so distinct that I'm never confused about who is talking.
The story: A prequel to book 1 discussing how Elizabeth met April and Longbourn and how she came to be a member of the Blue Order.
This was a fun story. You get a good look into young Elizabeth's mind and see how she began studying dragons so carefully and working out how to properly communicate with them,. I think it would work just as well if read before the other books as it does when read after.
The narrator: As usual Benjamin Fife knocks it out of the park with his performance! I've said this in previous reviews but his character voices are a joy to listen to and so distinct that I'm never confused about who is talking.
September 30, 2018
I loved this prequel to Maria Graces’s Dragon series. Elizabeth’s introduction to the different dragons, the start of her book, and her natural affinity for endearing herself to the creatures. It is a great background to the story.
June 28, 2019
I love the combination of Austen’s characters and dragons. I enjoyed her interpretation of the Pride and Prejudice characters. I was a little disappointed that this really is a prequel to the traditional events of Pride and Prejudice (Elizabeth is only 12), but I still liked the story.
September 1, 2020
4/5 Stars Performance Notes:
- Very well performed overall.
- I still hate fairies with a passion. In every single book I’ve heard a fairy (or in this case fairy dragon) voiced, I’ve wanted to strangle the creature. It’s always a squeaky and annoying as all heck voice. Some are gonna call it cute. I do not. This is a personal preference, not a reflection of the narrator’s skill. He has pretty good range for both male and female characters.
- There’s a lovely variety of dragons in here, and thankfully, not too much of that annoying little twit of a fairy (April).
3/5 Stars Story Summary:
13-ish-year-old Elizabeth Bennet is the daughter of a Dragon Keeper. (I heard the audio, so I don’t know if it’s capitalized, but it sounds important enough to be capitalized.) She saves a clutch of fairy dragons from freezing to death and meets some cool dragons. That’s about it.
Additional Comments:
- 3/5 Stars World-building: It’s an awesome world. There are a lot of very cool ideas here. Marie Grace jumped hard on the bandwagon of Jane Austen spinoffs and manages to weave in a world of dragons and dragon lore within the early 19th century. I’m not sure if the series was meant to be read out of order, but there’s a LOT of background. Several sections almost read like the author’s notes on the topics. There are okay integrations, but I’d venture to say at least a third of the story is on the borderline of world-building infodumps.
- 2/5 Stars plot: Maybe I spend more time with action-filled books, but it seemed like nothing happened. Entire conversations revolved around fleshing out the world, which is cool to a point but slows things down by a LOT. In a story like this, where because of the Jane Austen style of writing it takes 30 words to say 3, that messes with pacing. (That worked in Pride, Prejudice, and Zombies because you had periods of slowness punctuated by pitched battles. Here, you don’t have pitched battles to help you make up lost ground.)
- I kind of don’t understand the obsession with Jane Austen. I liked Pride and Prejudice well enough, but there are practically cults sprung up over her.
- It took me a while to realize that Elizabeth’s only 13-ish in this book. That might just be because of experiencing the books out of order.
- Content Rating: Clean.
- 3/5 Stars Old Characters: Fairly true to Jane Austen’s molds of the characters – Lizzie is sensible, Jane is beautiful, Mrs. Bennet nags Mr. Bennet, etc.
- 4/5 Stars New Characters: The dragons have unique personalities.
- There’s 0 action in here. I say that because most dragon containing stories have some sort of action. This might as well be a tea party to discuss dragons.
Conclusion:
If you’re absolutely obsessed with Jane Austen, give the series a go. I honestly can’t tell if this is going to tick you off because of the additions to sacred lore, or if you’ll enjoy it immensely because it gives you a chance to experience old friends in a new light. If you’re a dragon fan, you may like this take. Then again, you could be disappointed because the dragons are AWESOME and get to do nothing.
It’s certainly a worthy series to check out on your own and decide.
*I received a free copy of the audiobook. I have freely chosen to review it.
- Very well performed overall.
- I still hate fairies with a passion. In every single book I’ve heard a fairy (or in this case fairy dragon) voiced, I’ve wanted to strangle the creature. It’s always a squeaky and annoying as all heck voice. Some are gonna call it cute. I do not. This is a personal preference, not a reflection of the narrator’s skill. He has pretty good range for both male and female characters.
- There’s a lovely variety of dragons in here, and thankfully, not too much of that annoying little twit of a fairy (April).
3/5 Stars Story Summary:
13-ish-year-old Elizabeth Bennet is the daughter of a Dragon Keeper. (I heard the audio, so I don’t know if it’s capitalized, but it sounds important enough to be capitalized.) She saves a clutch of fairy dragons from freezing to death and meets some cool dragons. That’s about it.
Additional Comments:
- 3/5 Stars World-building: It’s an awesome world. There are a lot of very cool ideas here. Marie Grace jumped hard on the bandwagon of Jane Austen spinoffs and manages to weave in a world of dragons and dragon lore within the early 19th century. I’m not sure if the series was meant to be read out of order, but there’s a LOT of background. Several sections almost read like the author’s notes on the topics. There are okay integrations, but I’d venture to say at least a third of the story is on the borderline of world-building infodumps.
- 2/5 Stars plot: Maybe I spend more time with action-filled books, but it seemed like nothing happened. Entire conversations revolved around fleshing out the world, which is cool to a point but slows things down by a LOT. In a story like this, where because of the Jane Austen style of writing it takes 30 words to say 3, that messes with pacing. (That worked in Pride, Prejudice, and Zombies because you had periods of slowness punctuated by pitched battles. Here, you don’t have pitched battles to help you make up lost ground.)
- I kind of don’t understand the obsession with Jane Austen. I liked Pride and Prejudice well enough, but there are practically cults sprung up over her.
- It took me a while to realize that Elizabeth’s only 13-ish in this book. That might just be because of experiencing the books out of order.
- Content Rating: Clean.
- 3/5 Stars Old Characters: Fairly true to Jane Austen’s molds of the characters – Lizzie is sensible, Jane is beautiful, Mrs. Bennet nags Mr. Bennet, etc.
- 4/5 Stars New Characters: The dragons have unique personalities.
- There’s 0 action in here. I say that because most dragon containing stories have some sort of action. This might as well be a tea party to discuss dragons.
Conclusion:
If you’re absolutely obsessed with Jane Austen, give the series a go. I honestly can’t tell if this is going to tick you off because of the additions to sacred lore, or if you’ll enjoy it immensely because it gives you a chance to experience old friends in a new light. If you’re a dragon fan, you may like this take. Then again, you could be disappointed because the dragons are AWESOME and get to do nothing.
It’s certainly a worthy series to check out on your own and decide.
*I received a free copy of the audiobook. I have freely chosen to review it.
November 30, 2025
It seems a little strange to me that this "Introduction to Dragons" prequel is book 4 in the series. It's also strange that at the end of the book, it has this little "Here's my Jane Austin's Dragon series! I know you're rolling your eyes at me, but hear me out!" Bitch, I just sat through an entire book about fucking dragons. Why the fuck wasn't this shit at the start? Or why was it even included at all!?
This story is trope-city. To start, I'm not well-versed in the colloquial trope names, so forgive me for what I'm about to do to your hobby. It's got that "I'm not like other girls!" shit going on. Where the main character is just this semi-chosen one prodigy child that shakes things up, and all of the gruff, stuffy old white guys take issue with. It recycles that tired old bullshit of "Oh, woe is me! I messed up royally! WahhhhhH!!! Oh? I got the role? Heavens, how? I was so unusual tho? Really, lil' old me? I'm just what they needed? The world really does revolve around me, doesn't it!" It's lazy, uninteresting, uninspired bullshit. Despite the pile of flaws, it is well written, for the type of drek that it is. But it's also nothing special. There are many better fantasy stories out there, and many better stories that use this tired ass trope. For a single step up, go read Dragonrider Academy, or for a series I personally enjoy, the Valdir Chronicles.
The narration is equally as eh. It was alright, to downright fucking terrible. Right off the bat, I noticed this ever-present background hissing. However, I was able to tune that out mentally, relatively easily. The narrator does that annoying ass "hhwhite" "hwhen", "hwhere" bullshit though. And says stupid shit like "19o9". If people want to say that braindead shit in their personal lives, fine. But have some professional fuckin' standards! Leave that lazy shit at the door, "O" isn't a fucking number!
While the narrator clearly has some level of talent, it still falls short. When narrating for the main character, he'd do a softer voice. And when the father character was around, he'd do a deeper scene-setting voice. But his male voices all sounded the same, and also sounded just like his scene-setting voice. So when there was a room full of men talking, it sounded like a monotone lunatic talking to himself. His other character voices were relatively good, however. Though there was a moment when the mother character was talking to her sister, and again, they sounded identical.
Despite my ranting, I think this mediocre story still has a good audience. If you're a parent or grandparent and have a young daughter who wants to get into reading, the main character could serve as a good example of an independent young girl who doesn't allow people to talk down to her, walk over her, or dismiss her feelings. But anybody over the age of 15~ probably has better taste than this.
NOTE: This audiobook was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
This story is trope-city. To start, I'm not well-versed in the colloquial trope names, so forgive me for what I'm about to do to your hobby. It's got that "I'm not like other girls!" shit going on. Where the main character is just this semi-chosen one prodigy child that shakes things up, and all of the gruff, stuffy old white guys take issue with. It recycles that tired old bullshit of "Oh, woe is me! I messed up royally! WahhhhhH!!! Oh? I got the role? Heavens, how? I was so unusual tho? Really, lil' old me? I'm just what they needed? The world really does revolve around me, doesn't it!" It's lazy, uninteresting, uninspired bullshit. Despite the pile of flaws, it is well written, for the type of drek that it is. But it's also nothing special. There are many better fantasy stories out there, and many better stories that use this tired ass trope. For a single step up, go read Dragonrider Academy, or for a series I personally enjoy, the Valdir Chronicles.
The narration is equally as eh. It was alright, to downright fucking terrible. Right off the bat, I noticed this ever-present background hissing. However, I was able to tune that out mentally, relatively easily. The narrator does that annoying ass "hhwhite" "hwhen", "hwhere" bullshit though. And says stupid shit like "19o9". If people want to say that braindead shit in their personal lives, fine. But have some professional fuckin' standards! Leave that lazy shit at the door, "O" isn't a fucking number!
While the narrator clearly has some level of talent, it still falls short. When narrating for the main character, he'd do a softer voice. And when the father character was around, he'd do a deeper scene-setting voice. But his male voices all sounded the same, and also sounded just like his scene-setting voice. So when there was a room full of men talking, it sounded like a monotone lunatic talking to himself. His other character voices were relatively good, however. Though there was a moment when the mother character was talking to her sister, and again, they sounded identical.
Despite my ranting, I think this mediocre story still has a good audience. If you're a parent or grandparent and have a young daughter who wants to get into reading, the main character could serve as a good example of an independent young girl who doesn't allow people to talk down to her, walk over her, or dismiss her feelings. But anybody over the age of 15~ probably has better taste than this.
NOTE: This audiobook was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
February 16, 2023
Strange Arrangement Of Order, To Say The Least
The beginning of this book is confusing at best. Why we suddenly go back to the early years of Elizabeth is beyond me. It seems as if these books in the series are somewhat out of order. This one should have probably been the 1st in the series, not the 4th. Especially with all that has taken place in the previous 3.
Due to my disappointment, I had issues with really sinking my teeth into it. Once it gets going, it's decent enough to provide entertainment for the few hours it takes to read it. Mind you, it's nothing deep or consequential with any first-rate substance. It's one of the shortest ones so far, but it appears this is about to change, based upon the remaining 7 in the series and the details provided on such.
Overall it's really just a rehash, a synopsis if you will, of everything we've already read in the previous 3. With a few extra details added in to not allow the reader to become completely bored, eyes glazed,over, while trying not to nod off to la-la land, is probably the kindest way to describe it.
It appears, or at least is presented by other reviewers, this was only ever meant to be a trilogy. Makes you wonder if the writer and the publisher felt there were enough positive feedback and comments, to extract and exploit as much as continued sales and marketing as possible. The latest trend apparently in e-books, and particularly in the genre of fantasy.
To wrap this all up, as I feel I've already ranted enough on something so unworthy and substandard to deserve such a length review, I leave you with one last personal sentiment.
I have certain pet peeves if you will, when it comes to series, and this hits one particularly dead on.
I indubitably detest books that involve copious amounts of backstory overkill-essentially page fillers and fluff. That's what this is at close to 80% of the book.
Sorry to say, but this ends up as a 2 star review for me, and only out of consideration for the rest of the series, and an overall general humane respect to the author, did I not mark it as only a 1.
The beginning of this book is confusing at best. Why we suddenly go back to the early years of Elizabeth is beyond me. It seems as if these books in the series are somewhat out of order. This one should have probably been the 1st in the series, not the 4th. Especially with all that has taken place in the previous 3.
Due to my disappointment, I had issues with really sinking my teeth into it. Once it gets going, it's decent enough to provide entertainment for the few hours it takes to read it. Mind you, it's nothing deep or consequential with any first-rate substance. It's one of the shortest ones so far, but it appears this is about to change, based upon the remaining 7 in the series and the details provided on such.
Overall it's really just a rehash, a synopsis if you will, of everything we've already read in the previous 3. With a few extra details added in to not allow the reader to become completely bored, eyes glazed,over, while trying not to nod off to la-la land, is probably the kindest way to describe it.
It appears, or at least is presented by other reviewers, this was only ever meant to be a trilogy. Makes you wonder if the writer and the publisher felt there were enough positive feedback and comments, to extract and exploit as much as continued sales and marketing as possible. The latest trend apparently in e-books, and particularly in the genre of fantasy.
To wrap this all up, as I feel I've already ranted enough on something so unworthy and substandard to deserve such a length review, I leave you with one last personal sentiment.
I have certain pet peeves if you will, when it comes to series, and this hits one particularly dead on.
I indubitably detest books that involve copious amounts of backstory overkill-essentially page fillers and fluff. That's what this is at close to 80% of the book.
Sorry to say, but this ends up as a 2 star review for me, and only out of consideration for the rest of the series, and an overall general humane respect to the author, did I not mark it as only a 1.
December 1, 2023
Elizabeth 'Lizzie' Bennet, all of 12 years old, has the gift of hearing dragons. In fact, she is the only resident of Longbourn other than her father that can hear dragons and thus has any awareness of the dragon world that co-exists with humans. Lizzie is unafraid of dragons, eternally curious, and hungry to learn more - but she's just a girl. One day she rescues a clutch of fairy dragon eggs from freezing in cold weather before hatching. From that moment, her life changes. First one of the fairy dragons, April, when hatched chooses her as her Friend. The Blue Order which governs the world of dragons and men, hears of her and seeks to test her fitness to join the Order several years before the usual age. Through it all, Mr. Bennet becomes increasingly curmudgeonly and strict with Lizzie, while Mrs. Bennet objects to his using LIzzie as a secretary, among other things. All is a bit stressful at Longbourn, but Lizzie's envelopment into the dragon world - she does think like a dragon after all - is inevitable.
This is the 4th in the Jane Austen's Dragon series by Maria Grace, but it is in truth a prequel, and can and perhaps should be read first. Obviously with Lizzie only 12, this is set well in advance of P&P, making it standalone, not be a retelling or adaptation. I rounded this up from 3.5 stars. I do think it gets a solid 4 stars if you have not read the first 3 books in the series as this provides the beginnings, the foundation, for Lizzie and April and events to come.
Oh, and I should mention, there are lots and lots and lots of dragons, all types and sizes of dragons, with diverse personalities. The dragon world is rich and wonderful. For example, did you know that a group of fairy dragons is called a harem? And that male fairy dragons are rare? Or that the cockatrice likes dust baths?
This is the 4th in the Jane Austen's Dragon series by Maria Grace, but it is in truth a prequel, and can and perhaps should be read first. Obviously with Lizzie only 12, this is set well in advance of P&P, making it standalone, not be a retelling or adaptation. I rounded this up from 3.5 stars. I do think it gets a solid 4 stars if you have not read the first 3 books in the series as this provides the beginnings, the foundation, for Lizzie and April and events to come.
Oh, and I should mention, there are lots and lots and lots of dragons, all types and sizes of dragons, with diverse personalities. The dragon world is rich and wonderful. For example, did you know that a group of fairy dragons is called a harem? And that male fairy dragons are rare? Or that the cockatrice likes dust baths?
September 10, 2020
While this is book four in the Jane Austen’s Dragons series by Maria Grace, it’s the prequel to the series. In it, we meet twelve-year-old Elizabeth Bennet as she comes into her own as a dragon speaker. (Her mother and sister know nothing about dragons and cannot hear them.) Elizabeth, often while assisting her father with his work, meets and makes friends with dragons large and important and small and insignificant. She discovers that she has a natural propensity for helping dragons. Her father isn’t happy about her interactions, especially when Elizabeth is chosen to friend a Fairy Dragon, but Elizabeth is a willful young woman and continues to pursue her friendships.
This is a delightful book, a wonderful addition to this series. It can be read before, during, or after reading the other three books. I loved how real it made the dragons, and the possibility that such a secret society as the Blue Order might exist.
The writing is wonderful, for Maria Grace never lets her readers down. The narration is exceptional, Benjamin Fife brings the Regency world of human and dragon to life, and creates the best voices for all of the characters. His delivery is near perfection. I felt as if I was there, accompanying Elizabeth through her encounters and discussions.
If you are into Regency, Austen, or dragons, I can highly recommend this audio book.
I received this book from the narrator through Story Origins. I thank them and the author for sharing this book with me, but their generosity had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading/listening to this book.
This is a delightful book, a wonderful addition to this series. It can be read before, during, or after reading the other three books. I loved how real it made the dragons, and the possibility that such a secret society as the Blue Order might exist.
The writing is wonderful, for Maria Grace never lets her readers down. The narration is exceptional, Benjamin Fife brings the Regency world of human and dragon to life, and creates the best voices for all of the characters. His delivery is near perfection. I felt as if I was there, accompanying Elizabeth through her encounters and discussions.
If you are into Regency, Austen, or dragons, I can highly recommend this audio book.
I received this book from the narrator through Story Origins. I thank them and the author for sharing this book with me, but their generosity had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading/listening to this book.
December 14, 2021
Delightful Prequel to Jane Austen's Dragons
Like the rest of this series, I found A Proper Introduction to Dragons quite charming & entertaining. Although this book is actually a prequel to the first of the Jane Austen's Dragons series, I have already read the entirety of the series. I put this one off at first because of how hard Mr. Bennet was on Elizabeth in those early books, which got me so riled up in her behalf. But, having read the rest of the series gave me more insight into some of the events in this book, I think. It was so cool to see how Elizabeth came to design the cloak she uses throughout the series to communicate with dragons on their own terms. I also loved the additional information this book contained regarding the Blue Order & the behaviors of different species of dragons. As always, Miss Elizabeth is a lovely protagonist, & learning how she originally met & bonded with her beloved fairy dragon Friend, April, was such a treat! Maria Grace has created a fully functional & believable picture of a regency era England populated with dragons. The detail included in these books is so thorough that it is easy to imagine it is a true historical accounting. But, as always, the dragons are the stars of the show. They are, one & all, delightfully full of character all their own. This story definitely did not disappoint. I will be eagerly awaiting more in the Jane Austen's Dragons series. I recommend this book to fans of the series, but it can be read as an opener to the series, since chronologically it comes first, or as a prequel at any time after starting the series. I highly recommend it & the rest of the series, as well.
Like the rest of this series, I found A Proper Introduction to Dragons quite charming & entertaining. Although this book is actually a prequel to the first of the Jane Austen's Dragons series, I have already read the entirety of the series. I put this one off at first because of how hard Mr. Bennet was on Elizabeth in those early books, which got me so riled up in her behalf. But, having read the rest of the series gave me more insight into some of the events in this book, I think. It was so cool to see how Elizabeth came to design the cloak she uses throughout the series to communicate with dragons on their own terms. I also loved the additional information this book contained regarding the Blue Order & the behaviors of different species of dragons. As always, Miss Elizabeth is a lovely protagonist, & learning how she originally met & bonded with her beloved fairy dragon Friend, April, was such a treat! Maria Grace has created a fully functional & believable picture of a regency era England populated with dragons. The detail included in these books is so thorough that it is easy to imagine it is a true historical accounting. But, as always, the dragons are the stars of the show. They are, one & all, delightfully full of character all their own. This story definitely did not disappoint. I will be eagerly awaiting more in the Jane Austen's Dragons series. I recommend this book to fans of the series, but it can be read as an opener to the series, since chronologically it comes first, or as a prequel at any time after starting the series. I highly recommend it & the rest of the series, as well.
July 9, 2020
Great Prequel - Read This One First!
I do have to say that I wish I had read this one before Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon Book 1. As I have said in my other reviews of this series it really is Pride and Prejudice by name only... many of the characters have different types of relationships than the original Jane Austen version. Some of those relationships initially really bothered me (like the relationship between Elizabeth and her father). I do think if I had read this one first I would have been more prepared for the types of differences and had an much easier time adjusting to them because it feels like such a completely separate story now. I really enjoyed the story of Elizabeth learning so quickly about dragons at the age of 12 years old and how she and her fairy dragon came to each other. It was a very entertaining and fun listen, Benjamin Five does a great job on the narration! Four stars for the story and five stars for the narration.
Parent rating - PG - no real warnings it a pretty clean series. Age level due to writing style and content is middle school to adult.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I do have to say that I wish I had read this one before Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon Book 1. As I have said in my other reviews of this series it really is Pride and Prejudice by name only... many of the characters have different types of relationships than the original Jane Austen version. Some of those relationships initially really bothered me (like the relationship between Elizabeth and her father). I do think if I had read this one first I would have been more prepared for the types of differences and had an much easier time adjusting to them because it feels like such a completely separate story now. I really enjoyed the story of Elizabeth learning so quickly about dragons at the age of 12 years old and how she and her fairy dragon came to each other. It was a very entertaining and fun listen, Benjamin Five does a great job on the narration! Four stars for the story and five stars for the narration.
Parent rating - PG - no real warnings it a pretty clean series. Age level due to writing style and content is middle school to adult.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 17, 2020
I enjoyed this book so much.
It was very interesting to have a first hand account of Elizabeth's, or the Dragon Sage's, first encounter with a major dragon (or two) and how she came to have her cape and why, as well as how she learnt to use it and who taught her.
It is also fun and a bit hilarious to see April when she hatched, apparently she had a brother so Pheonix (the male fairy dragon that becomes aunt Gardner's friend) is not the first male fairy dragon that Elizabeth meets.
This book sort of gives you a first hand account/experience (depending on if you get so caught up in a story that you feel like it was an actual experience not just a story you read or heard) of some of what they (they being all the characters) refer to in the first three books. Like how Elizabeth met Longbourn and a Basilisk without a human introduction, to mention only a few of the dragon she met on her own, and made instant friends or at least acquintances of them. No wonder she find dragons better company then people.
Also here Mr. Bennet becomes the Historian; I thought he was the historian for much longer than Elizabeth can hear dragons and is a member of the Blue Order. It also hints to when Mr. Bennet makes the deal or arrangement with Longbourn that is refered to in either Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon or Longbourn: Dragon Entail by Walker if memory serves me right.
I am so excited about read/listening to more books in this series.
It was very interesting to have a first hand account of Elizabeth's, or the Dragon Sage's, first encounter with a major dragon (or two) and how she came to have her cape and why, as well as how she learnt to use it and who taught her.
It is also fun and a bit hilarious to see April when she hatched, apparently she had a brother so Pheonix (the male fairy dragon that becomes aunt Gardner's friend) is not the first male fairy dragon that Elizabeth meets.
This book sort of gives you a first hand account/experience (depending on if you get so caught up in a story that you feel like it was an actual experience not just a story you read or heard) of some of what they (they being all the characters) refer to in the first three books. Like how Elizabeth met Longbourn and a Basilisk without a human introduction, to mention only a few of the dragon she met on her own, and made instant friends or at least acquintances of them. No wonder she find dragons better company then people.
Also here Mr. Bennet becomes the Historian; I thought he was the historian for much longer than Elizabeth can hear dragons and is a member of the Blue Order. It also hints to when Mr. Bennet makes the deal or arrangement with Longbourn that is refered to in either Pemberley: Mr. Darcy's Dragon or Longbourn: Dragon Entail by Walker if memory serves me right.
I am so excited about read/listening to more books in this series.
November 30, 2020
A prequel to the series, this book shows you how Elizabeth discovered dragons and developed her first relationships with them. We also get an eye-opening view of the elder Bennet’s marriage troubles.
I must admit that after riding high from the ending of Book 3, I was disappointed to find that Book 4 was a prequel. While the prequel is good, I want more Elizabeth and Darcy!
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
I must admit that after riding high from the ending of Book 3, I was disappointed to find that Book 4 was a prequel. While the prequel is good, I want more Elizabeth and Darcy!
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
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