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Jane Austen's Dragons #15
Dancing with Dragons
Threats far more dangerous than dragons wander the dance floor of the Dragon Keeper’s Cotillion.
" A top fun comfort read."~ Gail Carriger
The defining moment of Margaret Dashwood’s social life, the Dragon Keeper’s Cotillion, the most significant event of Blue Order society, looms large on the horizon. Well-recognized as an excellent dancer, Margaret should have nothing to fear. Unless, of course, her Friend Snuff unleashes his own brand of mayhem in London with his hoarding addiction.
But Snuff is the least of the Blue Order’s problems. Blue Order auditor, decidedly staid and dull, Miles Bexley and his Friend Half Wing travel to Exeter to deal with missing dragons, smuggling, and even worse crimes against dragonkind, and find themselves at Colonel Brandon’s doorstep for help in the investigations.
Half Wing’s instant attraction to Margaret and Snuff draws the two, known for innocence and silliness in equal measure, into matters they are not prepared to understand, much less deal with.
Or are they?
Is it possible, Half Wing identified the most sensible person in Bexley’s acquaintance, the one whose help he most needs for his investigations—and his life?
With danger mounting and threats closing in, can Bexley and Margaret prove themselves more capable than what society expects? With only the safety of the Blue Order and a chance at future happiness at stake, they must rise to the occasion or lose everything they hold dear.
A fresh new gaslamp fantasy adventure in the engrossingly intricate world of Jane Austen’s Dragons. Anne McCaffrey meets Jane Austen, a perfect mix for dragon lovers and regency-era fans alike.
" A top fun comfort read."~ Gail Carriger
The defining moment of Margaret Dashwood’s social life, the Dragon Keeper’s Cotillion, the most significant event of Blue Order society, looms large on the horizon. Well-recognized as an excellent dancer, Margaret should have nothing to fear. Unless, of course, her Friend Snuff unleashes his own brand of mayhem in London with his hoarding addiction.
But Snuff is the least of the Blue Order’s problems. Blue Order auditor, decidedly staid and dull, Miles Bexley and his Friend Half Wing travel to Exeter to deal with missing dragons, smuggling, and even worse crimes against dragonkind, and find themselves at Colonel Brandon’s doorstep for help in the investigations.
Half Wing’s instant attraction to Margaret and Snuff draws the two, known for innocence and silliness in equal measure, into matters they are not prepared to understand, much less deal with.
Or are they?
Is it possible, Half Wing identified the most sensible person in Bexley’s acquaintance, the one whose help he most needs for his investigations—and his life?
With danger mounting and threats closing in, can Bexley and Margaret prove themselves more capable than what society expects? With only the safety of the Blue Order and a chance at future happiness at stake, they must rise to the occasion or lose everything they hold dear.
A fresh new gaslamp fantasy adventure in the engrossingly intricate world of Jane Austen’s Dragons. Anne McCaffrey meets Jane Austen, a perfect mix for dragon lovers and regency-era fans alike.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2025
72 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Maria Grace
97 books322 followersSix time BRAG Medallion Honoree, #1 Best-selling Historical Fantasy author Maria Grace has her PhD in Educational Psychology and is a 16-year veteran of the university classroom where she taught courses in human growth and development, learning, test development and counseling. None of which have anything to do with her undergraduate studies in economics/sociology/managerial studies/behavior sciences. She pretends to be a mild-mannered writer/cat-lady, but most of her vacations require helmets and waivers or historical costumes, usually not at the same time.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
She stumbled into Jane Austen fan-dom in the mid '90s with Emma Thompson's Sense and Sensibility film, having somehow graduated HS without ever having read Austen. It was only a short leap then to consume all of Austen's works, in all their various media forms. In the hopes of discovering more works by Austen, she stumbled into the fan fiction forums, which naturally led to asking 'What if...' herself. Twenty nine books later, she still asks that question.
She writes gaslamp fantasy, historical romance and non-fiction to help justify her research addiction.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
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February 22, 2026The intrigue increases around the Blue Order as the Snapdragons work to undermine the order and endanger dragonkind. The Cotillion Ball promises more than debutantes dancing. Maria Grace’s fabulous Gaslamp fantasy series continues to be a must-read.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
July 29, 2025
Adventurous
It is nice to see Sense and Sensibility represented in the series by Margaret Dashwood. I liked her characterization and her love for frilly things and dancing and loved her dragon friend. Her beau is also a great addition to the characters, and one that I’m sure will make more appearances along with her. Great new book!
It is nice to see Sense and Sensibility represented in the series by Margaret Dashwood. I liked her characterization and her love for frilly things and dancing and loved her dragon friend. Her beau is also a great addition to the characters, and one that I’m sure will make more appearances along with her. Great new book!
June 29, 2025
Another Winner!! Love this Series
As always, I'm delighted with Dancing with Dragons, the latest entry in the Jane Austen's Dragons series by Maria Grace. Chronologically, this book falls a few books back, partially overlapping with the Dragonkeeper's Cotillion. It covers events that were mentioned in that book, allowing us to learn more details and see exactly how those events went down. As usual, there was also a sweet Regency love story playing out, this time between Mr. Bexley and Margaret Dashwood.
I am always so impressed with the level of detail that Grace puts into this world. The politics and inner workings of both high society and the ins and outs of the Blue Order Society are fascinating and vividly nuanced. It's so much fun to read and feel embroiled in the drama and pageantry. I always love the cameos from familiar characters who have starred in or played supporting roles in previous books. There was a hint in this book that seemed to imply (fingers crossed) we might see Elizabeth and co. in the next book, but even if she doesn't make an appearance, I know I will love whatever comes next.
As is usually the case, the dragons stole the show. This time it was the Half Wing the fairy dragon and Snuff the puck, Friends of Mr. Bexley and Miss Dashwood, respectfully. They are quite important in furthering the plot. We get cameos from Phoenix, Cosette, and other minor dragon friends, as well as appearances of a few familiar major dragons as well. The dragons entertain with their wit and wisdom, and always end up my favorite part of the book. Half Wing and Snuff proved exceptionally adept at holding the limelight.
Bottom line is simple. This is one of very few series that I read which is still releasing, and every time a new book comes out, it immediately moves to next on my TBR. It is such a fun and light read. I love the authentic Pride and Prejudice era language and find the level of growth and development the characters, human and dragon, have experienced is quite impressive. On worldbuilding alone this series gets my appreciation. Dancing with Dragons was a terrific addition to the series and I can't wait until the next one is released!!
As always, I'm delighted with Dancing with Dragons, the latest entry in the Jane Austen's Dragons series by Maria Grace. Chronologically, this book falls a few books back, partially overlapping with the Dragonkeeper's Cotillion. It covers events that were mentioned in that book, allowing us to learn more details and see exactly how those events went down. As usual, there was also a sweet Regency love story playing out, this time between Mr. Bexley and Margaret Dashwood.
I am always so impressed with the level of detail that Grace puts into this world. The politics and inner workings of both high society and the ins and outs of the Blue Order Society are fascinating and vividly nuanced. It's so much fun to read and feel embroiled in the drama and pageantry. I always love the cameos from familiar characters who have starred in or played supporting roles in previous books. There was a hint in this book that seemed to imply (fingers crossed) we might see Elizabeth and co. in the next book, but even if she doesn't make an appearance, I know I will love whatever comes next.
As is usually the case, the dragons stole the show. This time it was the Half Wing the fairy dragon and Snuff the puck, Friends of Mr. Bexley and Miss Dashwood, respectfully. They are quite important in furthering the plot. We get cameos from Phoenix, Cosette, and other minor dragon friends, as well as appearances of a few familiar major dragons as well. The dragons entertain with their wit and wisdom, and always end up my favorite part of the book. Half Wing and Snuff proved exceptionally adept at holding the limelight.
Bottom line is simple. This is one of very few series that I read which is still releasing, and every time a new book comes out, it immediately moves to next on my TBR. It is such a fun and light read. I love the authentic Pride and Prejudice era language and find the level of growth and development the characters, human and dragon, have experienced is quite impressive. On worldbuilding alone this series gets my appreciation. Dancing with Dragons was a terrific addition to the series and I can't wait until the next one is released!!
August 28, 2025
Avid Reader
I had read some of the draft and wasn't sure of Mr. Bexley's role in the Blue Order, but I am glad that he, Snuff, and Halfwing saw more in Margaret than Mr. Osset , Colonel Brandon, and Marianne did. It's not fair to judge some one based on their looks and the fact that they like lace and pretty things. Norland was loyal to Margaret and made sure that she was presented to the Blue Order during the Cotillion where Viscontes Pemberly danced thanks to Halfwing. The behavior of some of the Blue Order members makes me wonder why they have not been purged from the roles since they are so dangerous to the delicate balance of men and dragons coexisting. At least Margaret and Bexley had a happy ending as did Snuff and Halfwing. Colonel Brandon needs to get with the times. You don't protect women by keeping them in the dark.
I had read some of the draft and wasn't sure of Mr. Bexley's role in the Blue Order, but I am glad that he, Snuff, and Halfwing saw more in Margaret than Mr. Osset , Colonel Brandon, and Marianne did. It's not fair to judge some one based on their looks and the fact that they like lace and pretty things. Norland was loyal to Margaret and made sure that she was presented to the Blue Order during the Cotillion where Viscontes Pemberly danced thanks to Halfwing. The behavior of some of the Blue Order members makes me wonder why they have not been purged from the roles since they are so dangerous to the delicate balance of men and dragons coexisting. At least Margaret and Bexley had a happy ending as did Snuff and Halfwing. Colonel Brandon needs to get with the times. You don't protect women by keeping them in the dark.
February 11, 2026
Half Wing is worth a thousand times his weight in gold! Snuff, too!
I was a bit dubious starting this book, because new characters are introduced, this time from Sense and Sensibility. This takes place after the events of that book and center around Margaret, Elinor’s and Marianne’s younger sister. My misgivings were very quickly laid aside, and I thoroughly enjoyed the book! Half Wing and Snuff are new dragons to us, and I loved them a great deal. Their personalities are strong, and they’re extremely helpful to Margaret and Bexley through their adventures.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
I was a bit dubious starting this book, because new characters are introduced, this time from Sense and Sensibility. This takes place after the events of that book and center around Margaret, Elinor’s and Marianne’s younger sister. My misgivings were very quickly laid aside, and I thoroughly enjoyed the book! Half Wing and Snuff are new dragons to us, and I loved them a great deal. Their personalities are strong, and they’re extremely helpful to Margaret and Bexley through their adventures.
I’m already looking forward to the next book!
May 26, 2025
excellent ongoing adventure of dragons and Austen characters!
Margaret, the young tree-climbing, map-loving child in Sense and Sensibility is now a young lady, due to be presented to the Blue Order Cotillion as a Dragon friend. Her Friend is a snuff-addicted young dragon with a penchance for trouble.
However both will become of utmost importance to the Order as they learn about the symbol of the snapdragons and those who wear it.
A fun romance, mystery, spy drama with dragons and Austen characters.
Margaret, the young tree-climbing, map-loving child in Sense and Sensibility is now a young lady, due to be presented to the Blue Order Cotillion as a Dragon friend. Her Friend is a snuff-addicted young dragon with a penchance for trouble.
However both will become of utmost importance to the Order as they learn about the symbol of the snapdragons and those who wear it.
A fun romance, mystery, spy drama with dragons and Austen characters.
May 13, 2025
A new addition to a great series, introducing new characters to the world of Jane Austin's Dragons to some already beloved characters from previous tales. A delightful adventure incorporating the very formal Blue Cotillion Ball and the sinister escapades of the Snapdragon smuggling group in a story line that incorporates intrigue, a mystery to unravel and opportunities for romance. Looking forward to future books.
May 25, 2025
An exciting new adventure in the series!
This is a book that I could not put down, and read it in a day! We have some new characters and storylines introduced, but our familiar characters make appearances or are referenced, which makes this book fit right into the world we have come to love. A touch of drama here and there keeps the reader’s interest going. I look forward to seeing where future adventures await us!
This is a book that I could not put down, and read it in a day! We have some new characters and storylines introduced, but our familiar characters make appearances or are referenced, which makes this book fit right into the world we have come to love. A touch of drama here and there keeps the reader’s interest going. I look forward to seeing where future adventures await us!
May 29, 2025
Dancing with Dragons
So very much enjoy Maria Grace' series of Jane Austen's Dragons. This one involves a grown up version of Margaret Dashwood, and does not disappoint.
You get action, poison and another look, from a different view, of the Dragon Keepers' Cotillion. Wonderful character including the dragon friends. You always feel satisfaction and anticipation at the end of the book.
Already in anticipation of the next in this series.
So very much enjoy Maria Grace' series of Jane Austen's Dragons. This one involves a grown up version of Margaret Dashwood, and does not disappoint.
You get action, poison and another look, from a different view, of the Dragon Keepers' Cotillion. Wonderful character including the dragon friends. You always feel satisfaction and anticipation at the end of the book.
Already in anticipation of the next in this series.
July 9, 2025
Mariah Grace has gifted us another draconic delight!
“Dancing with dragons” delivers the same wit, style and adventure long-time readers of her Jane Austen’s dragons series have come to expect.
The intertwining of Jane Austen characters across her main novels into the alternate dragon-verse of this series is an absolute joy, a wonderfully creative added feature that elevates this series from a standard retelling to a triumphant embellishment of Jane Austen’s imagined world.
“Dancing with dragons” delivers the same wit, style and adventure long-time readers of her Jane Austen’s dragons series have come to expect.
The intertwining of Jane Austen characters across her main novels into the alternate dragon-verse of this series is an absolute joy, a wonderfully creative added feature that elevates this series from a standard retelling to a triumphant embellishment of Jane Austen’s imagined world.
February 14, 2026
A Lovely Read
Especially, to finish as I just did on the eve of Valentine's Day! Quirky dragons, a very interesting young lady who loves to dance, a handsome dance partner who thinks quite highly of himself, a very proper young man who has issues tying a cravat, much less dancing, and a complementing caste of minor dragon Friends, along with a stirring plot, make this an interesting read.
Especially, to finish as I just did on the eve of Valentine's Day! Quirky dragons, a very interesting young lady who loves to dance, a handsome dance partner who thinks quite highly of himself, a very proper young man who has issues tying a cravat, much less dancing, and a complementing caste of minor dragon Friends, along with a stirring plot, make this an interesting read.
May 24, 2025
Delicious, dastardly dragon adventures
Fans of Jane Austin, historical romance, and dragons will be enchanted with Margaret Dashwood, Mr. Bexley, and their particular dragon Friends as they dance and foil evil pilots against dragonkind in this utterly charming fantasy Regency romance. I do recommend reading the previous novels in this enchanting series for maximum enjoyment.
Fans of Jane Austin, historical romance, and dragons will be enchanted with Margaret Dashwood, Mr. Bexley, and their particular dragon Friends as they dance and foil evil pilots against dragonkind in this utterly charming fantasy Regency romance. I do recommend reading the previous novels in this enchanting series for maximum enjoyment.
June 11, 2025
Always delightful, this 15th book of Austen and Dragons filled in some behind the scenes story that occurred during The Dragon Keeper's Cotillion and Dragon at Lands End, with Margaret Dashwood ( originally from Sense and Sensibility) as the primary character. Well written, medium paced, this story will have you wanting more, especially if you are a fan of Austen. It is quite evident Ms Grace has done her research according to the Regency Era, and is both lovely and safe for all ages to read, as if Austen herself were writing the story. I enjoyed it wholeheartedly!
August 7, 2025
I’ve enjoyed this series. I had difficulty getting into the first story, but once I sunk in, I sped through the books. I have to admit I’m a bit annoyed about having read 15 books and not having the big mystery resolved, but won’t complain much because I do enjoy how each dragon and estate, plus the guild each get a book. I’m now fully attached to the characters & seeing where everyone ends up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2025
Another addition to this fantastic Austen with dragons series. This book has stepped back a little from the timeline to add the delightful Miss Margaret Dashwood and her puck, Snuff. It’s a lighter read than some of the more recent books but still a great fun read. I really enjoy this series.
June 9, 2025
Exceptional!
I loved everything in this story!
I do have a small hope to see more of Laird Norland in the future. Maybe he could find cause to demand his keeper be replaced because of Fanny?
I loved everything in this story!
I do have a small hope to see more of Laird Norland in the future. Maybe he could find cause to demand his keeper be replaced because of Fanny?
December 6, 2025
Lovely story about seeing beyond the obvious
I do believe I enjoyed this book more than the last several. Puck and Half-Wing were such unique dragons, so easy to underestimate, and yet so valuable. They were the heroes of the story, and it was rather inspiring.
I do believe I enjoyed this book more than the last several. Puck and Half-Wing were such unique dragons, so easy to underestimate, and yet so valuable. They were the heroes of the story, and it was rather inspiring.
December 9, 2025
More please!
Omg. How long will I have to wait? When I first started reading this story, I was confused cuz it took me back in time and introduced new characters. But now it's coming together and dash it! There's not a next one yet.... waaaaa
It's a favorite!
Omg. How long will I have to wait? When I first started reading this story, I was confused cuz it took me back in time and introduced new characters. But now it's coming together and dash it! There's not a next one yet.... waaaaa
It's a favorite!
May 18, 2025
Another great addition of characters to this lovely world of Austen-era England with dragons. This is a very enjoyable, cozy read with intrigue and a lovely little puck with quite the nose.
May 30, 2025
Wonderful as always. This time we visit characters from Sense and Sensibility, while weaving in the past a little bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2026
Love the Blue Order novels and this one was no exception. I'm very glad to hear the Maria Grace is working on more. Jane Austen and Dragons! Who could ask for more?
December 27, 2025
Really enjoyed this one. Even though it was all-new-to-me characters, it was fun to finally get some Sense and Sensibility retelling (albeit from more of a "sequel" perspective than a true retelling) into this series! Also, Margaret is fantastic.
I love how Maria Grace writes spunky, capable heroines who don’t have to rely on brute strength to be strong. While Margaret is smart and independent, she also finds herself in a situation that she can only partially get herself out of, and I loved how she and her suitor complemented each other so well, not detracting from each other’s strengths in any way.
I love how Maria Grace writes spunky, capable heroines who don’t have to rely on brute strength to be strong. While Margaret is smart and independent, she also finds herself in a situation that she can only partially get herself out of, and I loved how she and her suitor complemented each other so well, not detracting from each other’s strengths in any way.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews