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The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker
Sisters trapped under threat of fire and destruction. Dragons enslaved by a power-hungry prince. A stable hand who must devise a plan to save them all.
Dragons circle the Oneskan palace at night, shrouding the kingdom in fear and mystery. Only Princess Emelia and her sisters know the fiends fly them to the enemy country of Tsantar under cover of darkness, where Prince Leonnar hopes to steal their secrets and gain control of Oneska. Their father’s proclamation that the man who drives away the hovering dragons will marry one of his daughters incites the princesses to redouble their efforts to escape Prince Leonnar’s tyranny.
When the enigmatic new stable hand, Merric, offers to help, Emelia finds him as frustrating as he is attractive. His superior knowledge of dragons gives her new hope, until he shatters her trust by showing more interest in protecting the vile creatures than getting rid of them. But only by finding a way to work with Merric—and with the dragons she detests—will Emelia have any chance of freeing herself, her sisters, and her kingdom from Tsantar’s clutches forever.
Retelling The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Language of the Birds
The Intertwined Tales is a multi-author series of clean fairytale retellings. Each novella entwines a famous fairytale with a lesser-known story to create one happily ever after. These standalone stories can be enjoyed in any order.
Dragons circle the Oneskan palace at night, shrouding the kingdom in fear and mystery. Only Princess Emelia and her sisters know the fiends fly them to the enemy country of Tsantar under cover of darkness, where Prince Leonnar hopes to steal their secrets and gain control of Oneska. Their father’s proclamation that the man who drives away the hovering dragons will marry one of his daughters incites the princesses to redouble their efforts to escape Prince Leonnar’s tyranny.
When the enigmatic new stable hand, Merric, offers to help, Emelia finds him as frustrating as he is attractive. His superior knowledge of dragons gives her new hope, until he shatters her trust by showing more interest in protecting the vile creatures than getting rid of them. But only by finding a way to work with Merric—and with the dragons she detests—will Emelia have any chance of freeing herself, her sisters, and her kingdom from Tsantar’s clutches forever.
Retelling The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Language of the Birds
The Intertwined Tales is a multi-author series of clean fairytale retellings. Each novella entwines a famous fairytale with a lesser-known story to create one happily ever after. These standalone stories can be enjoyed in any order.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2024
About the author
Laurie Lucking
18 books91 followersLaurie Lucking has always loved diving into imaginary worlds through books, but didn’t start writing her own stories until she left her career as an attorney to become a stay-at-home mom. After growing up in Wisconsin, she hopped the border into Minnesota to attend St. Olaf College and the University of Minnesota Law School, and she continues to make Minnesota her home with her husband and two young sons. When she gets a break from playing super heroes and driving wind-up cars, Laurie enjoys reading, singing, connecting with other moms, and writing young adult fantasy, always with a central love story to satisfy her inner romantic.
Laurie is the Secretary of her local ACFW Chapter and a co-founder of www.LandsUncharted.com, a blog for fans of clean young adult speculative fiction. Find out more about Laurie and her writing at www.laurielucking.com.
Laurie is the Secretary of her local ACFW Chapter and a co-founder of www.LandsUncharted.com, a blog for fans of clean young adult speculative fiction. Find out more about Laurie and her writing at www.laurielucking.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 17, 2024
Loved this sweet Romantasy and fairytale retelling merging the tale of 12 dancing princesses with a world of dragons.
The Princesses are forced each night to attend balls in an enemy kingdom, under the rule of a tyrant prince who controls dragons. If they do not comply their Kingdom will be at risk of attack by dragon, so each time they are summoned they must dress up and dance with the princes, keeping their hidden lives a secret. When Crown Princess Emilia discovers a hidden language she begins to understand it might be a way to communicate with the dragons they fear, and with some help from a new stablehand she works on a plan to save the Kingdom and escape the Tyrant Prince.
This is a sweet slow burn romance, and a daring rescue mission. Emilia is courageous, Merrin is sweet, and I loved the dragons.
Prince Leonnar makes an impressive villain too with a clever scheme to try and seize more power.
✨ I'm choosing you because I'm fascinated by you. Mesmerized by you"
The Princesses are forced each night to attend balls in an enemy kingdom, under the rule of a tyrant prince who controls dragons. If they do not comply their Kingdom will be at risk of attack by dragon, so each time they are summoned they must dress up and dance with the princes, keeping their hidden lives a secret. When Crown Princess Emilia discovers a hidden language she begins to understand it might be a way to communicate with the dragons they fear, and with some help from a new stablehand she works on a plan to save the Kingdom and escape the Tyrant Prince.
This is a sweet slow burn romance, and a daring rescue mission. Emilia is courageous, Merrin is sweet, and I loved the dragons.
Prince Leonnar makes an impressive villain too with a clever scheme to try and seize more power.
✨ I'm choosing you because I'm fascinated by you. Mesmerized by you"
June 24, 2025
Content:
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is dragon fire and off-screen injuries from it, as well as a moment where it's obvious a character has been 'roughed up' by others. He limps.
Sexual: Mild. There are a few chaste swoony kisses, but nothing steamy.
Content: This does have mild references to religion. They pray and ask the "Maker" for help in distressing moments.
2.5 star rating.
This. Was. Rough.
I nearly stopped reading at least four times. The idea was interesting on plot, characters, and dragons, but it was soooo not ready for publication. This felt like an early draft. So much depth was missing.
In the early chapters there were page breaks that typically indicate a scene change or time lapse, but they started up directly where the last sentence left off. Leaving me ornery because the scene should've just continued, but my brain was ready for a scene change and then having to break, back-peddle, and start again. At least three of them. Annoying.
This being a 12 dancing princesses retelling was a bit misleading. Besides the princesses actually dancing at a ball they didn't want to go to, there was little to show this as a retelling. I would say it's more of a 'inspired by' than a true retelling. By a long ways.
And the romance. Insta-love for no reason at all. Confiding deep personal secrets after two days and no real provocation to do so, and I still have no idea why the two are attracted to each other. There was a lot of, 'oh he's handsome' and 'he might be able to help me' but that was it on Emelia's end. Since we don't get a POV for Merrick, his is even more vague. They basically stare at each other, she blushes a lot, he tells her his tragic backstory (even though it made no sense why he would trust her with it), and then they're just...in love? It was eye-roll territory for me. I scowled at this "romance". It could've been so cute if the story were fleshed out better.
The dragon language was also frustrating. It's a bunch of random letters randomly lower case and capitalized smushed together. I skimmed because there's no way to read it. How do you read something like CyWitYidEfy? That's what it was. Not a great choice. Halted the flow exponentially.
There was potential with the story, but it fell so flat on every level I can describe. It had hints of something fun, but it didn't get fleshed out before the author just decided to publish. Was there a deadline? I don't know. The thing I do know? I'm disappointed, and annoyed because I could've been reading something else. I have another book by this author in my Kindle, and I honestly am considering just deleting it. Too many books, too little time! I don't want to waste mine again.
UPDATE: I just read that other book by this author that I mentioned owning on my kindle (fully intending to DNF and delete with prejudice) and really enjoyed it! It must be just this book for some reason. Go figure?
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is dragon fire and off-screen injuries from it, as well as a moment where it's obvious a character has been 'roughed up' by others. He limps.
Sexual: Mild. There are a few chaste swoony kisses, but nothing steamy.
Content: This does have mild references to religion. They pray and ask the "Maker" for help in distressing moments.
2.5 star rating.
This. Was. Rough.
I nearly stopped reading at least four times. The idea was interesting on plot, characters, and dragons, but it was soooo not ready for publication. This felt like an early draft. So much depth was missing.
In the early chapters there were page breaks that typically indicate a scene change or time lapse, but they started up directly where the last sentence left off. Leaving me ornery because the scene should've just continued, but my brain was ready for a scene change and then having to break, back-peddle, and start again. At least three of them. Annoying.
This being a 12 dancing princesses retelling was a bit misleading. Besides the princesses actually dancing at a ball they didn't want to go to, there was little to show this as a retelling. I would say it's more of a 'inspired by' than a true retelling. By a long ways.
And the romance. Insta-love for no reason at all. Confiding deep personal secrets after two days and no real provocation to do so, and I still have no idea why the two are attracted to each other. There was a lot of, 'oh he's handsome' and 'he might be able to help me' but that was it on Emelia's end. Since we don't get a POV for Merrick, his is even more vague. They basically stare at each other, she blushes a lot, he tells her his tragic backstory (even though it made no sense why he would trust her with it), and then they're just...in love? It was eye-roll territory for me. I scowled at this "romance". It could've been so cute if the story were fleshed out better.
The dragon language was also frustrating. It's a bunch of random letters randomly lower case and capitalized smushed together. I skimmed because there's no way to read it. How do you read something like CyWitYidEfy? That's what it was. Not a great choice. Halted the flow exponentially.
There was potential with the story, but it fell so flat on every level I can describe. It had hints of something fun, but it didn't get fleshed out before the author just decided to publish. Was there a deadline? I don't know. The thing I do know? I'm disappointed, and annoyed because I could've been reading something else. I have another book by this author in my Kindle, and I honestly am considering just deleting it. Too many books, too little time! I don't want to waste mine again.
UPDATE: I just read that other book by this author that I mentioned owning on my kindle (fully intending to DNF and delete with prejudice) and really enjoyed it! It must be just this book for some reason. Go figure?
November 29, 2024
I couldn't read this fast enough to find out how this story ended. This author took the classic dancing princesses tale and wove in dragon speaking and a mysterious stranger into a suspenseful, action filled story that kept me on the edge of my seat until the absolutely perfect ending. This might be my new favorite of this tale!
January 1, 2025
A really fun take on the 12 dancing princesses fairy tale with DRAGONS! I loved how the dragons were incorporated into this book. The romance was also super cute.
May 3, 2025
Very enjoyable version of 12 Dancing Princesses.
December 11, 2024
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker
The Intertwined Tales
By Laurie Lucking
I really enjoyed this book, which offered a unique twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Princess Emelia and her four sisters are threatened with the destruction of their kingdom, Oneska, unless they comply with Prince Leonnar of Tsantar's demands. They were to be available at his bidding to grace the court of Tsantar whenever he sent his dragons to "escort" them to his gatherings. The goal is to marry one of the princesses and gain access to Oneska's secrets.
Emelia is stymied with little hope of thwarting the dragons until she tries to learn "Dragon Speech," which gets the attention of Merric, a new stable hand who has a way with horses. Merric has unique insights into dragons, which Emelia hopes will help. But first, she has to get past Merric's evasive wariness.
Could dragons be as good as Merric says? Or are they the beasts of destruction that Prince Leonnar claims? Princess Emelia must choose who to believe, the future of Oneska depends on it.
This was an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it for fans of fairytale retellings or those who like clean romance that won't make you blush or cringe. (Raise your hand if you agree!) I was thoroughly engaged and enjoyed this book in one day. I always consider a book a good read when it makes me want to read the author's other works and Laurie Lucking did that with The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
The Intertwined Tales
By Laurie Lucking
I really enjoyed this book, which offered a unique twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses. Princess Emelia and her four sisters are threatened with the destruction of their kingdom, Oneska, unless they comply with Prince Leonnar of Tsantar's demands. They were to be available at his bidding to grace the court of Tsantar whenever he sent his dragons to "escort" them to his gatherings. The goal is to marry one of the princesses and gain access to Oneska's secrets.
Emelia is stymied with little hope of thwarting the dragons until she tries to learn "Dragon Speech," which gets the attention of Merric, a new stable hand who has a way with horses. Merric has unique insights into dragons, which Emelia hopes will help. But first, she has to get past Merric's evasive wariness.
Could dragons be as good as Merric says? Or are they the beasts of destruction that Prince Leonnar claims? Princess Emelia must choose who to believe, the future of Oneska depends on it.
This was an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it for fans of fairytale retellings or those who like clean romance that won't make you blush or cringe. (Raise your hand if you agree!) I was thoroughly engaged and enjoyed this book in one day. I always consider a book a good read when it makes me want to read the author's other works and Laurie Lucking did that with The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
April 11, 2025
enjoyed it!
I read this because I usually enjoy 12 dancing princesses retelling and I like other authors that participated in this series. The book did not disappoint! Hopefully we can have further books in this world!
I read this because I usually enjoy 12 dancing princesses retelling and I like other authors that participated in this series. The book did not disappoint! Hopefully we can have further books in this world!
November 28, 2024
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker is a fun fantasy retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses and a lesser-known tale. While it is a short read, it makes up for it in adventure and intrigue. This book releases on December 6th, and I had the pleasure of an early copy. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Story: 4/5
Worldview: 4/5
Overall, I really enjoyed the plot of this novella. It took me a few chapters to fully understand everything—but everything came together quickly enough. There are six sisters here, which I’m grateful for because I wouldn’t have been able to follow twelve characters over so short a time. Princess Emelia was a strong FMC who would sacrifice anything for her family, and her sisters all each have their quirk and personality that makes them stand out. Merric is an interesting counterpart to Emelia, and I liked the way he was contrasted to the manipulating Prince Leonnar. I enjoyed the climax and resolution, but I do have some questions at the end that I’m not sure were completely wrapped up.
The worldview was vaguely Christian, in that the characters pray to the Maker (God) and ask for help in difficult circumstances. The novella did have a nice message of trust and not taking everything at surface value. Sort of like a “looks can be deceiving” message.
All in all, a nice novella with an interesting plot and characters. This is my first book I’ve read by Laurie Lucking, but I look forward to checking out some of her other works!
Story: 4/5
Worldview: 4/5
Overall, I really enjoyed the plot of this novella. It took me a few chapters to fully understand everything—but everything came together quickly enough. There are six sisters here, which I’m grateful for because I wouldn’t have been able to follow twelve characters over so short a time. Princess Emelia was a strong FMC who would sacrifice anything for her family, and her sisters all each have their quirk and personality that makes them stand out. Merric is an interesting counterpart to Emelia, and I liked the way he was contrasted to the manipulating Prince Leonnar. I enjoyed the climax and resolution, but I do have some questions at the end that I’m not sure were completely wrapped up.
The worldview was vaguely Christian, in that the characters pray to the Maker (God) and ask for help in difficult circumstances. The novella did have a nice message of trust and not taking everything at surface value. Sort of like a “looks can be deceiving” message.
All in all, a nice novella with an interesting plot and characters. This is my first book I’ve read by Laurie Lucking, but I look forward to checking out some of her other works!
December 9, 2024
I was very excited for this one because the cover is gorgeous!
I know I know, don’t judge a book by its cover but this one doesn’t disappoint. I really really liked the story.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling was unique with the addition of the retelling of The Language of Birds. I had not heard of this fairytale before so of course I had to look it up. I think that’s been my favorite part of this multi author series. The two fairytales blend and complement each other so well. I give huge thumbs up to the authors and the incredible job they’ve done.
The sisters in this were hilarious and I enjoyed each of their personalities. There are only 6 instead of 12 which lets the reader get to know each one better. And Prince Leonnar was a well developed villain. His political smiles and the way he played the game was very well done. Metric, the sweet stable hand, was a great addition and I loved his kind but compassionate nature. He didn’t let his heart and values falter.
I really enjoyed the slow burn build between Em and Merric and how they became friends first. Their cute crush was sweet.
A great m/f romantic fantasy that I will definitely be rereading and recommending. Dragons, kingdom politics, dances, lots of horse riding and a sweet commoner/noble trope. Very low angst.
The pace was quick and only focused on the issue of the dragons/Leonnar and the princesses but was great because it flowed so well.
Pov from Emelia told in first person
Main cast of characters-
Princesses of Oneskan:
Crown Princess Emelia (21) aka Em
Princess Callista (19) aka Calli
Princess Rosalind (16) aka Rose
Princess Jolene (14) aka Jo
Princess Pippa (12)
Merric - stable hand and dragon speaker
Crown Prince Leonnar of Tsantar
Steam - clean with kissing at end
I know I know, don’t judge a book by its cover but this one doesn’t disappoint. I really really liked the story.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling was unique with the addition of the retelling of The Language of Birds. I had not heard of this fairytale before so of course I had to look it up. I think that’s been my favorite part of this multi author series. The two fairytales blend and complement each other so well. I give huge thumbs up to the authors and the incredible job they’ve done.
The sisters in this were hilarious and I enjoyed each of their personalities. There are only 6 instead of 12 which lets the reader get to know each one better. And Prince Leonnar was a well developed villain. His political smiles and the way he played the game was very well done. Metric, the sweet stable hand, was a great addition and I loved his kind but compassionate nature. He didn’t let his heart and values falter.
I really enjoyed the slow burn build between Em and Merric and how they became friends first. Their cute crush was sweet.
A great m/f romantic fantasy that I will definitely be rereading and recommending. Dragons, kingdom politics, dances, lots of horse riding and a sweet commoner/noble trope. Very low angst.
The pace was quick and only focused on the issue of the dragons/Leonnar and the princesses but was great because it flowed so well.
Pov from Emelia told in first person
Main cast of characters-
Princesses of Oneskan:
Crown Princess Emelia (21) aka Em
Princess Callista (19) aka Calli
Princess Rosalind (16) aka Rose
Princess Jolene (14) aka Jo
Princess Pippa (12)
Merric - stable hand and dragon speaker
Crown Prince Leonnar of Tsantar
Steam - clean with kissing at end
November 27, 2024
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker takes the often re-told fairy tale of the Twelve Dancing Princesses and mixes it with the much less well known Russian story of the Language of the Birds and then it makes everything even better than it would otherwise have been by adding dragons. (Whatever the tale, dragons always improve things). The number of princesses has been dropped to just five, which makes it much easier to keep track of who is who and allows each to be an individual instead of just getting lost in a haze of eleven other girls. The main character Emelia is a determined and caring person and her interactions with love interest Merric are quite sweet.
I do find the logic behind some of the events a little sketchy. There is no way word couldn't have gotten out that the princesses were dancing at parties in Tsantar regularly. Even if there is no ambassador from their country posted there, surely there would be spies or just people who gossip in attendance. The princesses get dressed in fancy ballgowns and do their hair up . . . and then jump on the backs of dragons and fly across the kingdom to a neighbouring kingdom. These girls should arrive with their hair in windblown disarray, their dresses creased, dirty and torn, and they should be shivering with cold and not in any way ready to attend a ball.
These quibbles aside, the story is a very fun, original, and intriguing adventure with a sweet, gentle romance. A perfect short (novella length), light and quite cosy read.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
I do find the logic behind some of the events a little sketchy. There is no way word couldn't have gotten out that the princesses were dancing at parties in Tsantar regularly. Even if there is no ambassador from their country posted there, surely there would be spies or just people who gossip in attendance. The princesses get dressed in fancy ballgowns and do their hair up . . . and then jump on the backs of dragons and fly across the kingdom to a neighbouring kingdom. These girls should arrive with their hair in windblown disarray, their dresses creased, dirty and torn, and they should be shivering with cold and not in any way ready to attend a ball.
These quibbles aside, the story is a very fun, original, and intriguing adventure with a sweet, gentle romance. A perfect short (novella length), light and quite cosy read.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
December 30, 2024
If you read my review of A Noble Purpose back in September, you know I love Laurie Lucking’s books. Common, Traitor, and A Noble Purpose all hold a special place in my heart. Grimly, I can’t say the same about The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker.
A retelling of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” and “The Language of the Birds,” The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker follows Emelia, a princess. Each night, Emelia and her sisters are captured by dragons, who ferry them away to their enemy kingdom. Upon discovering this regular capture, Emelia’s father proclaims that whoever can make the dragons flee may marry one of his daughters. A dragon-savvy stablehand named Merric rises to the challenge.
As has (unfortunately) been the case with several books this year, I did not finish The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker. One of my favorite things about Laurie Lucking’s books is her heroines’ complexities and the story’s promise of hope. While I’m sure that, had I read further, I would have found both those things, they did not feel as clear in this story. Emelia felt flat and afraid, rather than riddled with thoughts and feelings. Thus, I give The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker three stars: I liked the concept (and I love the author), but there was not enough to hook me.
Regardless of my feelings on The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker, I’m still ecstatic for whatever Laurie Lucking’s next book might be.
Disclaimer: I received and read an advance reader’s copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A retelling of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses” and “The Language of the Birds,” The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker follows Emelia, a princess. Each night, Emelia and her sisters are captured by dragons, who ferry them away to their enemy kingdom. Upon discovering this regular capture, Emelia’s father proclaims that whoever can make the dragons flee may marry one of his daughters. A dragon-savvy stablehand named Merric rises to the challenge.
As has (unfortunately) been the case with several books this year, I did not finish The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker. One of my favorite things about Laurie Lucking’s books is her heroines’ complexities and the story’s promise of hope. While I’m sure that, had I read further, I would have found both those things, they did not feel as clear in this story. Emelia felt flat and afraid, rather than riddled with thoughts and feelings. Thus, I give The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker three stars: I liked the concept (and I love the author), but there was not enough to hook me.
Regardless of my feelings on The Dancer & the Dragon Speaker, I’m still ecstatic for whatever Laurie Lucking’s next book might be.
Disclaimer: I received and read an advance reader’s copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 10, 2024
✨Mini Review✨
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker is Book 8 in The Intertwined Tales, a series of clean fairytale retellings featuring a well known tale intertwined with a lesser known one!
Laurie's fairytale is a blend of The Twelve Dancing Princesses & The Language of the Birds! This was such an interesting story, I wasn't familiar with The Language of the Birds, but Laurie blended these two fairytales beautifully, and the story flowed in such a way that it's like they were always meant to be together! I loved the characters in this world, and how all the sisters had their own distinct voice which set them apart with their different personalities! This was an intriguing, cozy read that I really enjoyed!! I especially loved the sweet, slow burn romance between Em and Merric, the kind & compassionate stable hand! If you loved Hiccup from How to Train Your Dragon then you'll love Merric! 😍 I loved this book and would ✨highly recommend✨ it to anyone who loves clean & cozy fairytale retellings!
💜Thank you Laurie Lucking for the chance to arc read your tale, I loved it!!
✨🐲💜🐲✨
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker is Book 8 in The Intertwined Tales, a series of clean fairytale retellings featuring a well known tale intertwined with a lesser known one!
Laurie's fairytale is a blend of The Twelve Dancing Princesses & The Language of the Birds! This was such an interesting story, I wasn't familiar with The Language of the Birds, but Laurie blended these two fairytales beautifully, and the story flowed in such a way that it's like they were always meant to be together! I loved the characters in this world, and how all the sisters had their own distinct voice which set them apart with their different personalities! This was an intriguing, cozy read that I really enjoyed!! I especially loved the sweet, slow burn romance between Em and Merric, the kind & compassionate stable hand! If you loved Hiccup from How to Train Your Dragon then you'll love Merric! 😍 I loved this book and would ✨highly recommend✨ it to anyone who loves clean & cozy fairytale retellings!
💜Thank you Laurie Lucking for the chance to arc read your tale, I loved it!!
✨🐲💜🐲✨
April 15, 2025
I really like the 12 Dancing Princesses fairy tale and this is a spin-off from that, only with dragons thrown in.
The sisters must go to Prince Leonnar's castle whenever he sends his dragons for them. If they refuse he will rain destruction on their kingdom. He wants one of them to be a willing wife to either himself or one of his brothers.
Princess Emelia, the eldest sister, must find a way to set them free and unbeknownst to her, a stable worker has just what she needs - a way to communicate with the dragons.
Merric's kingdom was destroyed by Prince Leonnar's father and he is the only one who survived. He was saved by a dragon and taken to their land and gifted by them with Dragon Speak. When he reached a certain age they sent him out into the world and he found himself in the stables in Oneska, right where he needed to be to help them.
Throughout the story there were comments about the Maker as well as the sisters praying to the Maker. They were good and kind and giving, but determined to save their kingdom no matter what it cost them personally. This is a clean read.
The sisters must go to Prince Leonnar's castle whenever he sends his dragons for them. If they refuse he will rain destruction on their kingdom. He wants one of them to be a willing wife to either himself or one of his brothers.
Princess Emelia, the eldest sister, must find a way to set them free and unbeknownst to her, a stable worker has just what she needs - a way to communicate with the dragons.
Merric's kingdom was destroyed by Prince Leonnar's father and he is the only one who survived. He was saved by a dragon and taken to their land and gifted by them with Dragon Speak. When he reached a certain age they sent him out into the world and he found himself in the stables in Oneska, right where he needed to be to help them.
Throughout the story there were comments about the Maker as well as the sisters praying to the Maker. They were good and kind and giving, but determined to save their kingdom no matter what it cost them personally. This is a clean read.
January 21, 2025
Creative, sincere, and heartwarming. Dragon Speaker is a joy to read with its funny and relatable sibling dynamics and engaging storyline. It read like a love note to oldest daughters as Princess Emelia took onto herself the weight of saving her siblings and the kingdom and managed to be seen by a guy who values her for her and is ready to support her in carrying that weight. All of the sisters were unique and memorable and I would live to read each of their stories. Merric is strong and independent as well as compassionate and good hearted. He is also disarmingly humorous.
Their romance story is clean and sweet. There is almost no violence and definitely no gore. This book is part of a larger multi author series and can definitely be read as a standalone book, though other books in the series are worth trying if you enjoy this one.
All in all a wonderful story that I look forward to reading again.
Their romance story is clean and sweet. There is almost no violence and definitely no gore. This book is part of a larger multi author series and can definitely be read as a standalone book, though other books in the series are worth trying if you enjoy this one.
All in all a wonderful story that I look forward to reading again.
December 16, 2024
Sadly, I'm a bit behind in posting my review since this came out over a week ago. I really enjoyed this book! I mean, it has dragons! How can you not enjoy it??? I also really loved her love interest. I liked that they had to kind of tolerate each other and it grew into love (not a full enemies to lovers, just more of a distrust to lovers story).
I don't know the fairy tale of the Language of the Birds but the nods to 12 Dancing Princesses were fun, with the princesses being forced to attend balls they didn't want to be at and trying to find how to end their own version of a curse. It was just a fun, well written fairytale retelling that I highly recommend and think would be great for anyone over the age of 10-12. The romance is subtle with some light kissing that mostly fades to black before the actual kissing occurs if I remember correctly.
I don't know the fairy tale of the Language of the Birds but the nods to 12 Dancing Princesses were fun, with the princesses being forced to attend balls they didn't want to be at and trying to find how to end their own version of a curse. It was just a fun, well written fairytale retelling that I highly recommend and think would be great for anyone over the age of 10-12. The romance is subtle with some light kissing that mostly fades to black before the actual kissing occurs if I remember correctly.
January 13, 2026
I have always loved The Twelve Dancing Princesses fairytale. Laurie did an amazing job at taking that fairytale and making it her own. I’m not overly familiar with The Language of the Birds fairytale. But I did love this story. Emelia is a likable FMC, the moment we meet her we know she will do whatever she must to protect her family and her home. She is dedicated to stopping Prince Leonnar from gaining control of Oneska. We only see her become distracted when the new stable hand Merric makes his appearance. This stable hand seems to know stuff about dragons and could possibly be the key Emelia needs to end the kingdom's fear of the dragons Prince Leonnar controls.
Narration: The narration was done by Tawnya Rollingson. Who has narrated a few other stories I’ve listened to. She does a good job bringing the story to life and keeping me as a listener engaged.
Narration: The narration was done by Tawnya Rollingson. Who has narrated a few other stories I’ve listened to. She does a good job bringing the story to life and keeping me as a listener engaged.
July 15, 2026
I love how this series took a well known fairy tale and mashed it with an obscure one! This one is a retelling of the 12 Dancing Princesses and The Language of Birds.
This was a really fun retelling! The princesses are forced to secretly attend balls in an enemy kingdom under threat of dragon attacks. They don't realize that the dragons are just as much a prisoner to this arrangement as they are.
Emelia is the oldest and very much feels responsible for her sisters and finding a solution to their predicament. Enter the handsome stable boy Merric with a mysterious past and who seems to have knowledge of dragons and might be the key to their freedom.
The romance was really cute and there were some subtle faith themes (prayers to the creator). One thing I liked about that was that it seemed like Emelia prayed and trusted the creator more as the book went on.
This was a really fun retelling! The princesses are forced to secretly attend balls in an enemy kingdom under threat of dragon attacks. They don't realize that the dragons are just as much a prisoner to this arrangement as they are.
Emelia is the oldest and very much feels responsible for her sisters and finding a solution to their predicament. Enter the handsome stable boy Merric with a mysterious past and who seems to have knowledge of dragons and might be the key to their freedom.
The romance was really cute and there were some subtle faith themes (prayers to the creator). One thing I liked about that was that it seemed like Emelia prayed and trusted the creator more as the book went on.
December 6, 2024
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker was a really cool story! It was a really cool combination of the Twelve Dancing Princesses and the Language of Birds (but with dragons instead!). I loved the plot and the characters, although I do wish that the "wearing the slippers out" part of the Twelve Dancing Princesses story was more emphasised in the book. As it is, Merric doesn't even know that they wear their shoes out dancing at night. I would have also liked Merric to play a bigger role in the story and I would love to have read the story from his perspective. However, this was a really great book and I loved Emelia and all of her sisters. Merric was also really sweet and I really enjoyed his backstory. This was a great short read and I would definitely recommend it!
December 16, 2024
The Dancer and the Dragon Speaker ny Laurie Lucking
What I loved about this book:
🐲 Five trapped sisters
🐲 Dragons!
🐲 A stable hand with a plan
🐲 A mysterious language
🐲 Sweet romance, just a kiss or two
Another amazing book from the Intertwined Tales! This one is a mix of The Twelve Dancing Princesses (just add dragons!) and The Language of the Birds (a lesser known Russian tale). I throughly enjoyed its sweetness and loved all the main characters.
Favorite quote: "Was that CxIyVhAuNz you were speaking?”
I tilted my head, trying to identify the word. “CxIyVhAuNz?”
“The”—he ducked his head, his voice growing softer—“the language of the dragons.”
Favorite scene: Emelia riding FlAuVhIy
What I loved about this book:
🐲 Five trapped sisters
🐲 Dragons!
🐲 A stable hand with a plan
🐲 A mysterious language
🐲 Sweet romance, just a kiss or two
Another amazing book from the Intertwined Tales! This one is a mix of The Twelve Dancing Princesses (just add dragons!) and The Language of the Birds (a lesser known Russian tale). I throughly enjoyed its sweetness and loved all the main characters.
Favorite quote: "Was that CxIyVhAuNz you were speaking?”
I tilted my head, trying to identify the word. “CxIyVhAuNz?”
“The”—he ducked his head, his voice growing softer—“the language of the dragons.”
Favorite scene: Emelia riding FlAuVhIy
December 6, 2024
Engaging style, sweet and clean romance, well-developed plot, and lovable characters. This is a sweet retelling of two fairytales beautifully combined. However, added twists and turns keep the reader engaged till the end. Plus, dragons are involved, and who doesn’t love dragons in fairytales?
However, as any good story, this novel raises such issues as duty, responsibility, assumptions, aggression, etc. and handles them well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I was given a privilege to read an advanced copy, but opinion expressed is my own.
However, as any good story, this novel raises such issues as duty, responsibility, assumptions, aggression, etc. and handles them well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I was given a privilege to read an advanced copy, but opinion expressed is my own.
January 31, 2025
This was a interesting mashup retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Language of the Birds (which I was unfamiliar with). I loved the close relationship between the sisters, with each one have a different character, but all of them supporting each other. Merric and Emilia fit together perfectly, too. :-) The mystery of who Merric is was revealed slowly, and I loved reading about dragons who were more intelligent than expected (reminded me a bit of Toothless from How To Train Your Dragon). The happy ending topped off a lovely story!
March 17, 2025
Interesting World
This story introduced an interesting world with dragons and the idea of magic ceremonies/connections. The main characters were decently portrayed, and their motivations understandable. I also like that all the sisters had a role in the story. However, I wish we had Merric's pov and more time to see the romance bloom between him and Emelia. I also think Em was able to do too much based on how the magic rules were described. That soured the ending for me a bit, though I am interested in reading more about this world from the author.
This story introduced an interesting world with dragons and the idea of magic ceremonies/connections. The main characters were decently portrayed, and their motivations understandable. I also like that all the sisters had a role in the story. However, I wish we had Merric's pov and more time to see the romance bloom between him and Emelia. I also think Em was able to do too much based on how the magic rules were described. That soured the ending for me a bit, though I am interested in reading more about this world from the author.
Did Not Finish
March 11, 2026The idea intrigues me and the set up is good, but unfortunately I just couldn't get past some glaring worldbuilding issues. A king who goes to personally fetch his aide after hours only to then have to go back to the "royal wing" because there isn't enough space in the poor pleb's rooms. Really? Like he woudn't just sent a runner to fetch the aide? Makes no sense. Then the princesses traipsing around the forest without an escort of guards. Like REALLY?! And those were just the two most glaring disingenuous moments of a story so far riddled with such poorly worked out scenarios.
DNF at 20%
DNF at 20%
July 5, 2026
3.5 stars
This was based on the 12 Dancing Princesses and The Language of Birds. While I've never read The Language of Birds, I truly enjoy 12 Dancing Princesses.
Well, there are 5 in this book. And they don't dance every night. And they're are dragons! I didn't find this to be insta-love at all. More time passed between dances giving time for Merrick and Emilia to cross hurdles. What I didn't like was Emilia's self-deprecating thoughts and actions.
However, turns out the dragons were just as trapped as the princesses. And crochet won the day! Quick, sweet, and funny read!
This was based on the 12 Dancing Princesses and The Language of Birds. While I've never read The Language of Birds, I truly enjoy 12 Dancing Princesses.
Well, there are 5 in this book. And they don't dance every night. And they're are dragons! I didn't find this to be insta-love at all. More time passed between dances giving time for Merrick and Emilia to cross hurdles. What I didn't like was Emilia's self-deprecating thoughts and actions.
However, turns out the dragons were just as trapped as the princesses. And crochet won the day! Quick, sweet, and funny read!
December 6, 2024
This was a new to me author in this fairy tale romance retellings multi author series. It was an enjoyable read. I liked how dragons were woven in in a different way from what I’ve read before. I liked the Princesses and the enemies aspect, the family, and the station differences. I was on the edge of my seat at times. I would enjoy reading another by this author. 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 6, 2024
12 Coerced Dancing Princesses - with dragon rides to and from the enemy kingdom?
Yes, please!
This was such a fun tale and I loved the growth of the main character overcoming her prejudices and the progression of her relationship with a certain dragon speaker who came to her rescue and whom the sisters ended up rescuing in turn.
The book made me smile and laugh and sucked me in to the world with the characters.
Yes, please!
This was such a fun tale and I loved the growth of the main character overcoming her prejudices and the progression of her relationship with a certain dragon speaker who came to her rescue and whom the sisters ended up rescuing in turn.
The book made me smile and laugh and sucked me in to the world with the characters.
December 7, 2024
This was such a fun and new take on the 12 dancing princesses! I really enjoyed the writing style and how there was not immediate trust among the characters. I felt the story really progressed in a realistic and believable way and the character growth and admitted weaknesses was great. I would recommend this book. I did receive an advanced copy and it was requested I provide my thoughts. All words and opinions in this review are my own.
December 24, 2024
Dragons & Dancing Princesses—5 stars
Sweet story about 5 dancing princesses under threat from dragons controlled by a neighboring evil Prince, who uses the Princesses against their will to boost his popularity and his ability to get allies. There is a caring grumpy princess and a secretive stable hand. There are misunderstood dragons and spunky Princesses. Great story! I received an ARC copy from the author.
Sweet story about 5 dancing princesses under threat from dragons controlled by a neighboring evil Prince, who uses the Princesses against their will to boost his popularity and his ability to get allies. There is a caring grumpy princess and a secretive stable hand. There are misunderstood dragons and spunky Princesses. Great story! I received an ARC copy from the author.
January 17, 2025
Dragons and a Brave Princess
The mixing of tropes in this short sweet romance hit me with all the feels. I loved the sisterly interactions and the dichotomy that was Princess Emilia - brave and decisive about her family and kingdom yet hesitant and unsure about love.
I’m not familiar with either of the intertwined fairy tales, so I don’t know how the story fares as a retelling.
Worth a read if you love dragons and a heroic princess.
The mixing of tropes in this short sweet romance hit me with all the feels. I loved the sisterly interactions and the dichotomy that was Princess Emilia - brave and decisive about her family and kingdom yet hesitant and unsure about love.
I’m not familiar with either of the intertwined fairy tales, so I don’t know how the story fares as a retelling.
Worth a read if you love dragons and a heroic princess.
December 7, 2024
Interesting twist
I really enjoyed the intertwined tales of the dancing princesses (5 not 12 though) and how they were blackmailed into attending balls in the neighboring kingdom via dragons. Great characters and plot and was happy to see the dragons weren't the terror they were said to be.
I really enjoyed the intertwined tales of the dancing princesses (5 not 12 though) and how they were blackmailed into attending balls in the neighboring kingdom via dragons. Great characters and plot and was happy to see the dragons weren't the terror they were said to be.
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