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When Dealing with Dragons

Not yet published
Expected 30 Jun 26
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Bonding with dragons gave humans magic to craft metal―now, two school rivals have to work together to protect a priceless secret, all while fighting their growing attraction to each other, from Dana Swift, author of Cast in Firelight.

Copper-crafter Farren Walsh is set on following in her father's footsteps to become a dragon veterinarian. The only thing more powerful than her love for these magnificent creatures is her hate for those who exploit them for their precious metal. That includes her classmate, an arrogant dragon racer named James Murphy, whose silver-crafting family represents the worst of human greed and dragon abuse―plus, he's the biggest competition for the college scholarship she desperately needs.

When James strongarms his way into interning at her family's dragon sanctuary for the summer, it puts everything at risk. Farren isn't just the plain copper-crafter she seems. She's hiding a secret that could not only change her life, but their society as a whole. And James, trying to find refuge from his controlling father, harbors his own secret, years-long crush on Farren. Hating James might be harder than she thought, but Farren can't risk getting too close: the fate of an endangered species is at stake.

When Dealing with Dragons is a delightful young adult dual-POV romantasy about cross-class romance, finding family, and creating a better world for creatures big and small.

336 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication June 30, 2026

15942 people want to read

About the author

Dana Swift

3 books530 followers
Dana Swift started making up fantasy worlds when she was eleven years old and hasn’t stopped since. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned degrees in English and Advertising. While in college, Dana competed as a saber fencer and learned a thing or two about fighting, parrying and how it feels to fall in love with your sparring partner. She currently lives with said husband in Miami, Florida.

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5 stars
35 (72%)
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11 (22%)
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Dana Swift.
Author 3 books530 followers
Want to read
December 29, 2025
I’m not going to rate my own book, but I did want to use this space to post updates and answer any questions that come up about my new YA Fantasy, WHEN DEALING WITH DRAGONS! If more questions arise I’ll happily add to this list.

For now I have a google form if you would like to request an ARC: https://forms.gle/JoAtQwKgsEDeejTN9

I also have a google form for the preorder campaign! There are going to be amazing character art/scene art, stickers, and bookmarks so be sure to preorder before June 30th and fill out the form here:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA...

1. Is WHEN DEALING WITH DRAGONS a series?
This book was written as a standalone. But! I'm working on a companion novel that will hopefully be released in 2027. That companion novel will have two different main characters and their own love story, but it will be in the same world. Farren and James will have cameo appearances in the companion novel so if you love WHEN DEALING WITH DRAGONS you're going to want to read the next one!

2. Content level: How explicit is the romance?
There are no sex scenes in the book. It never goes beyond kissing.
As for other content, there is no cursing in the book. I very much wrote it to be YA, and even a bridge book between middle grade and young adult so all teens can enjoy it!

3. Will there be an audiobook?
Yes! The audiobook comes out June 30, 2026, the same day as the hardcover and e-book. Excitedly, the audiobook will be dual narrated for the two points of view!

4. Will there be foreign translations?
Yes! I'm so happy to report a few foreign countries have bought the rights to publish WHEN DEALING WITH DRAGONS. Here are the languages the book will be translated into I can publicly announce (so far):

English (US and UK) - Book 1 & 2
German - Book 1 & 2
Italian - Book 1
Hungarian - Book 1
French - Book 1
Profile Image for Rachel Sperber.
464 reviews11 followers
May 26, 2025
Perks of being friends with the author (and also a huge fan of hers) I was sent a PDF copy of her next release and have been devouring it ever since. Admittedly, I’m more of an audiobook reader than an e-book reader, but every time I had time to pick up the book, I was drawn into the world and her writing.

If you loved the Cast in Firelight duology, you’ll love this as well. It’s got Dana’s wonderful humor, character banter, and beautiful writing, but a new world and characters. Farren and James are fantastic POV characters, each with their secrets and coming of age stories within the course of the novel.

I don’t want to give too much away with the release date so far away, but I loved all of the characters in the book, especially the dragons, and the world building and magic was fascinating. I laughed at the humor, cooed over the dragons, and loved watching the characters interact throughout the whole journey. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming. It’s the perfect mixture of cozy, budding romance, and dragons, along with breakneck adrenaline and intriguing societal commentary. I can’t wait to discuss this with other fellow readers!
Profile Image for Rebekka Röttger.
43 reviews4 followers
December 3, 2025
I had the chance to read an early version of this and can say that it is one of the best young adult romantasy novels I read in a while. Absolutely lovely characters and a very cute romance. I was a bit hesitant at first, because the similar named Dealing with Dragons is one of my favourite children's novels, but this one needn't fear the comparison. In fact, I think Ferran and Cimorene would get along splendidly.
Profile Image for Hannah.
721 reviews71 followers
December 14, 2025
5 Stars.

🐉 The vibes:
- YA romantasy
- Social classes
- Dragons
- Rivals
- Forbidden love
- Closed door

🐉 My thoughts:
I loved this so much. There are some books that have me so giddy, excited, and on the edge of my seat the entire time; books that I cannot put down and pain my soul when I can’t be reading it. This was that book for me. There’s rivals, pining, yearning, and dragons. Say less. It’s standalone which makes it the perfect read to consume and not get involved in a huge commitment.

🐉 The dynamic between Farren and James gave me all of the feelings of first love, but the depth of the characters individually and also together was everything. Farren and James are the most precious little things ever.

🐉 The class system involving metals was really cool. The social classes gave this story such an angst all throughout that I loved. It created a forbidden love situation that had me screaming and wondering how these two would make it work. The dragon veterinary moments were some of my favorites. Farren’s family was such a good part of the story.

🐉 And the action scenes involving the dragons was great. It’s been such a long time since I’ve read a book with dragons that connected for me that didn’t feel overly cheesy or silly. The dragons in this book gave me exactly what I look for in a dragon book. They’re big and strong beasts, but we also see a heartwarming side also.

🐉 This is definitely fantasy because we have dragons, but also there are cars and phones, and the way they talk feels modern. So I guess maybe urban fantasy is what I would classify this as based on that.

🐉 Overall, this is a favorite for me. It had so many elements that just worked so well. The friendships, the romance, the family, the dragons, and the action. I LOVED THIS.

Note- closed door; brief mentions of sex
Release date: June 30, 2026.

Thank you so much to Dana Swift, St. Martin's Press | Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for the gifted copy.
12 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
January 12, 2026
I loved this book and ended up reading it in one sitting. The worldbuilding pulled me in right away and the characters were a lot of fun. Some of them definitely lean into familiar tropes, but they’re genuinely endearing and I will always love a king. I also really liked that the villain.

One of the strongest parts of the story is how the dragon industry mirrors real world . It does a great job questioning the ethics . Those themes give the book real emotional weight, even within a YA framework.

This is about a 1 out of 5 on the 🌶️ scale, mostly glances and kisses. I would still only recommend it for ages 13+ unless approved by parental guidance because although the story has universal appeal, the themes could be a tad heavy for younger reader. I’m well outside the intended YA age range and still found this incredibly engaging and emotionally impactful.

This was an easy 5 star read for me. It tells a complete story while still making me excited to read more set in this world.

ARC disclaimer: I read an Advance Reader Copy that I won through a giveaway. All opinions are my own.

My only real critique is that chapters 47 and 48 felt a bit rushed and I really wanted an epilogue. Since this was an ARC, I’m expecting an epilogue in the final revision, which is why this didn’t affect my 5 star rating.

⚠️ Spoilers below for my epilogue wishes





Despite wanting more closure, I’m actually really glad this is a standalone. It tells a full story without feeling incomplete, while still leaving room for companion books set in the same world, which I’m very much looking forward to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
4 reviews
December 14, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through a giveaway here on Goodreads. When I submitted my entry I found the premise sounded intriguing and so I was ready to read my copy.

Before I share my thoughts I'd like to say that if you're not a fan of first person and/or present tense writing then this isn't the book for you. The entire story is written this way. It took a little getting used to for me but I got there in the end.

For the first half of the story I honestly would not have given this more than two stars. It was slow and clunky at times for my personal taste. It also didn't help that I couldn't stand Farren. She's not the worst but there was a good deal of tell rather than show in the writing. So we get told that she hates James but don't really get to see much evidence of it. Which made it worse when it switched to his POV and you find out he's awkward and abused and without anyone he can be close to in life. This got better about halfway through the book as she got to know him but as a reader I was really struggling to keep pushing forward.

I also found that some of the writing early on made it so that the big reveal of the Walsh family having a gold dragon landed short. As wonderful as it is to drop hints, I had guessed the big reveal at the first mention of Nity's name. Personally I feel that if the cliffs had been mentioned without her name attached then I would have been left curious at the mystery rather than dropping the final puzzle piece immediately.

With that said, the second half of the book really picked up and allowed my rating to jump to where it is now. Not only did the chemistry between the characters improve, I felt the writing did as well. Suddenly things felt like they had a purpose which was so nice. (I would drop the very unnecessary detail about possible racism in one paragraph though. It felt very out of place and then had no evidence anywhere else. It was kind of gross in a way that wasn't necessary to the plot.) The twist at the end that Mr. Murphy was still an awful person but not responsible for the gold theft was beautiful. More so that James still kicked him to the curb rather than trying to make amends with a man who abused him all his life.

Overall the story is pretty good. While I can't say is recommend it to friends, I also wouldn't discourage anyone to not read it if there was interest. Others might enjoy things a lot more than I did. Besides, who knows if there might not be a handful of changes from now until it releases in the summer.

Feel free to give the book a chance if the premise intrigues but I will note that it's got some flaws that had me struggling to finish until the plot really picked up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Julia Alexandra.
Author 1 book102 followers
August 30, 2025
There were SO many things to love about this book, and I inhaled it because of its fast-pace and absolutely adorable characters. I fell in love with Farren and James and their enemies-to-lovers dynamic! I related to Farren and her perfectionism, and I loved her dedication to her family’s business. James was the absolute sweetest! I adored his POV chapters. The push and pull between Farren and James was so satisfying. Their romance felt so realistic and age-appropriate, which was such a refreshing take to see. I am certain younger teens all the way to adults will enjoy this story.

There’s plenty of depth in this book as well. The magic system was multi-layered with dragons and their metals playing into the societal and political systems of the world. It was such a unique take on dragons and particularly on animal protection and conservation. I thoroughly enjoyed Farren’s family and their tireless pursuit for the welfare of dragons despite the economic costs. Farren’s family was soooo supportive, and I found that so comforting for a YA fantasy.

I knew I would probably love this book because I love dragons, but I didn’t know how much I would fall in love with the characters, the worldbuilding, and the romance. I would absolutely read more books in this universe and with these characters if the author chooses to delve further into this world.
Profile Image for Elisabeth.
1,007 reviews5 followers
July 16, 2025
A gorgeous and luscious adventure that will sweep you off your feet. This story was epic and heartwarming. I loved every page. The chapter titles, the characters, the dragons, all of it made for such a wonderful story. The writing captures your heart and takes your attention and holds it throughout the whole book. This book was utterly wonderful and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story. This book was delightful from beginning to end!

Thanks to the author and publishers for the ARC! I am so grateful for the opportunity to get to read this story! And can't wait to read it again when it's released!
Profile Image for Dolly.
204 reviews13 followers
October 2, 2025
Please can I have a dragon. Please. Please. Please. I really want a dragon.

I won a copy of “When Dealing with Dragons” by Dana Swift. Dana did a wonderful job of world building. I was transported to Farren’s world where her parents run a dragon sanctuary and her dad is a veterinarian. The hate interest, who she has a secret crush on is James. James’ family is upper class and runs the local dragon racing track. He has a secret crush on her too. Family secrets, metal magic, class warfare: this story has it all. Oh, did I mention dragons? Can I give this book 6 stars? Read “When Dealing with Dragons”. It’s worth your precious reading time.
Profile Image for Joshua Degley.
93 reviews1 follower
November 5, 2025
Dealing With Dragons by Dana Swift – 5⭐
This book had everything I wanted. The characters felt real, and the world was full of life and magic. The mix of action, mystery, romance, and fantasy made it hard to put down. I liked how the story kept a good pace and balanced the tension with lighter moments. By the end, I wasn’t ready to leave this world. I’m not sure if there’s going to be a sequel, but I really hope there is.
Profile Image for Sydneyyy :).
76 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
December 22, 2025
I had no idea what to expect going into this, but holy CRAP this book absolutely shocked me. I was literally reading this while giggling and kicking my feet in the air at moments (don't judge guys) the romance was the CUTEST THING EVER. And don't even get me started on the plot. It was absolutely perfect and the plot twists had me audibly gasping. So basically, this book absolutely knocked my socks off and is probably one of my top books this year, if not ever.
Profile Image for Cristina Faz.
12 reviews
January 7, 2026
If you love rivals-to-lovers, dragons, and unique magic systems, you’ll love this book. Farren and James were such amazing and well-written characters. I loved the dual POV, each character with their own secret. I loved the Walsh family and what they represented. This book had me giggling and kicking my feet, while also making me cry. There were twist and turns I didn’t see coming. I absolutely loved this book!
Profile Image for Lauren Danhof.
Author 1 book33 followers
December 6, 2025
Swift has this incredible ability to sweep you off your feet. Her stories are epic and exciting, but the heart of them is always the romance. And once again, in When Dealing with Dragons, she has expertly crafted a gorgeous world as a backdrop for swoon-worthy, teenage-angsty, can't-put-the-book-down romance.
Profile Image for Erin Edwards-smith.
25 reviews
December 26, 2025
I am a big fan of the reprising love for all things DRAGONS. So when I won this book and was provided an opportunity to read something not yet released, I felt honored.

It has been some time since I dove into a YA book. All things nowadays is SMUT, so this was a breath of fresh air. A great story. A good twist. A sweet love. Sprinkled in twists, some sadness, and surprise.
Profile Image for Amanda Brown.
50 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 5, 2026
I loved this book so much! I love to idea of the plot being set at a dragon sanctuary and a unique metal magic system. The Romance was sweet and cute and I enjoyed all of their interactions. I got pulled into the book every time I picked it up and didn't want to put it down. After reading I wish I could go to a dragon sanctuary and get to care and play with the dragons!

4.6 Stars
5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 6, 2026
This book was pure magic. Farren and James are hands-down two of the most adorable characters ever written, and I loved every moment with them. The hierarchy was so well done, each character felt special, and the entire story was overflowing with whimsy. And needless to say I’m obsessed with the dragons ✨ .
3 reviews
Read
January 14, 2026
This book was wonderful! It has it all! Unique Magic systems. Rivals to lovers. Dual POVs. Secrets. Animal activists. So many twists & turns. This book filled my heart with joy. It had me laughing out loud and crying in one sitting. If you need a feel good ride with a slow burn romance read this immediately!
179 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
November 7, 2025
Good book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Desig.
576 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Shelf Awareness Pro
November 7, 2025
good book
Profile Image for Nelly.
215 reviews80 followers
Want to read
November 18, 2025
Please someone tell me this book is as good as the cover its gorgeousssssss <3
30 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
December 27, 2025
Riveting--as equally packed with action as it is filled with romantic tension! This is a world I did not want to leave.
Profile Image for Monica Woodcock.
36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
January 12, 2026
I was lucky enough to win an ARC and I can honestly say I'd read a whole series of these characters. I love a good dual POV and this book was hard to put down!
6 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
January 17, 2026
I loved everything about this book, the world building, the characters, the romance. I received an early copy of this book and I can't wait until it releases!
Profile Image for Karen Johnson.
12 reviews
November 7, 2025
Farren Walsh is the daughter of the veterinary doctor who is a copper for the dragons and a spotter for the races. James Murphy is from the Murphy family's who are silver and own the land the races are on and rent his dragons out. James is a sprinter, and his dragon is Hort. James and Farron are from different metals, different classes, and enemies, but can they come together for the dragons? if you like How to Train Your Dragon, you will love When Dealing with Dragons. The story has cars yet dragons, so I was intrigued by how far into the future or past the author was writing for, but it was no matter the more I got into the book. The writing was amazing as it kept me reading and wanting me to read what would come next. You really get into feeling for the dragons, especially Nity and Hort. I feel that this book would be great for any age group. Dana Swift, if you see this review, please make a sequel.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews

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